At The Bridge.
"I thought the Defense Agency was a Secret Service?" Joshua suddenly inquired as they made their way toward the site.
"Hmm... It is, but only to the general public. The federal government, the military, and key individuals—like your family—are in the loop," Alex explained.
"You lost someone here?"
"..."
Joshua fell silent, conflicted.
"You don't have to answer. But it seems you cherished this person a lot," Alex said gently.
"It's my girlfriend."
"Ah... Sorry. That explains it. She must've been remarkable. What's her—"
"Commander Alexander Balogun. It's been a while. How's your grandfather?"
The familiar voice interrupted Alex mid-sentence.
"Major General?" Alex responded, surprised.
After a brief salute, the conversation resumed.
"Enjoying his retirement, that's all I can say," Alex replied.
The Major General chuckled. "Good to hear. Since you're here, we can finish up sooner. Specialists say it's not a terrorist attack. Oh—and I didn't know you tied the knot already. Why bring your kid along?"
"He's not my kid. He's my future brother-in-law," Alex corrected.
"Really? So you're about to tie the knot? Congratulations! Who's the lucky girl?"
Both Alex and Joshua's expressions darkened.
"What? Did I say something wrong?"
"...No, not really," Alex struggled to respond.
The Major General's tone turned serious. "Commander, you know this area is restricted. We're keeping the media out until we know what we're dealing with."
"Joshua is special. He's... a Magi. Still an apprentice, but very talented," Alex said.
I'm not exactly a Magi though, Joshua thought.
"Ah... I see."
"You said the specialists concluded it wasn't terrorism?"
The Major General nodded.
"Well, a Thaumaturgist is on the way—but since Joshua's here..."
Alex gave a hopeful look.
The Major General sighed. "Fine. Not my jurisdiction if it's not terrorism. You don't need my approval."
"Well then, Joshua?"
"Of course."
I can finally find out what caused your death, Adaolisa... and maybe... bring you back, Joshua thought as he stepped forward.