Charles walked alone toward the Relic Research Institute. There were cars available, but he didn't want to take one. For someone who had spent years with his sphere of activity limited to the Narwhal, being able to just keep walking like this was a rare pleasure.
As he passed through the factory districts bristling with smokestacks, he finally stood before the Relic Research Institute. The place had changed drastically. Although it was called a research institute, it now looked more like a heavily guarded military fortress.
The moment Charles approached, a huge spotlight from a nearby tower trained on him. A booming voice blasted from a loudspeaker atop the tower. "Stop! Hold up your ID card and state your name!"
Charles looked up. The harsh light prevented him from making out the person, but he knew they could definitely see him clearly.
"It's me. Open the gate and let me in."
