Chapter 77 Summary

Back at CIA headquarters, Dr. Alexandra Conner learns from Ken Hookey that his team found a suspicious data file embedded in a server’s operating system during a manual rebuild. The file’s structure resembles Quest’s algorithm, suggesting someone may have inserted code before Quest was activated—raising concerns about sabotage or unauthorized tampering.

Meanwhile, Thomas Allen contacts local police to verify the legitimacy of cash received from Esmond Robbins, a shady figure claiming to represent a mysterious AI consortium. Detective Saunders agrees to investigate both the cash and Robbins. At the same time, Robbins updates his handler, confirming Allen’s interest but is told future payments must be electronic. If Allen declines, they’ll end contact.

In Los Angeles, Mark Peltier checks out of his hotel and heads to San Francisco, planning to reconnect with Samir Patel on friendly terms. Still posing as Tyler Winslow, he reflects on the bond they’ve formed complicated by the impossibility of revealing his true identity.

During a stop in Bakersfield, Mark finally calls Conner. Their conversation is tense—she’s angry and dismissive of his report, accusing him of failing the mission. Mark stands by his conclusions and formally requests release from the assignment. Conner grants it coldly and invalidates his non-recall waiver. Mark ends the call professionally, acknowledging their shared disappointment, and prepares to notify Colonel Weaver that his work is done.