"…How did you know?"
"That ye ain't an officer? That's because ye are not a…"
She suddenly became quiet, then shook her head and said, "Anyway, officer's a respected post. Folk don't just wake up an' become one overnight. Ye said yerself ye've been keepin' low till recently. That don't line up."
"…"
I remained silent.
What was she planning to do?
"Give me yer key."
I nodded.
The key answered my call immediately, manifesting in my palm. I handed it over without resistance.
I could summon the Key back to myself at any moment so this was fine.
She took it carefully, closed her eyes, and began muttering under her breath.
The key started to glow.
Light spread across its surface in thin lines, like veins filling with fire.
After a few seconds, she opened her eyes and pressed it back into my hand.
"There. Upgraded."
"You just—"
"Listen. Ye can leave Nautilus now. Proper leave, and return to this domain whenever ye want. Use this key. Hide somewhere else till things cool off.
