The car engine shuts off with a soft purr as Abah arrives in front of a discreet residence, hidden behind a row of trees that obscure the entrance. He stands before the house of Stelio Kitchi Kontos Jr. Abah circles the property and finds the front door. Above it, a long wooden tube serves as an intercom. He speaks into it:
"Excuse me, I'd like to speak with the wife of Stelio Kitchi Kontos Jr. I'm Abah, a politician—you may know who I am."
He waits for a moment before a woman's voice responds:
"I know who you are. What is the purpose of your visit?"
"I'm seeking information about Stelio, please."
After a brief hesitation, the voice agrees.
Upon entering the house, Abah discovers a simple yet elegant interior, reflecting Stelio's modest character. The house, mostly made of wood, exudes warmth and authenticity, a stark contrast to the political world of Verdantia.
Abah sits down, determined to get straight to the point:
"I'll be direct. Since this morning, I can't figure out how Stelio can stand up to Tala. I'm lost."
Surprised, Stelio's wife, smiling, responds:
"Well, maybe power plays a role. Stelio tells me about his interactions with people, and you could say he's become the hero of the people." (She laughs softly.)
Abah takes note of this but continues:
"I have power in my party, but I can't stop Tala. I'm missing something… I had a conversation with an old friend from high school; she told me I've changed."
Abah's thoughts are scattered, his sentences disjointed. Stelio's wife, Liora, then reveals something crucial:
"In the beginning, Stelio was very emotional. He wanted to prove himself to others. He already had confidence in himself. He often tells me, 'I proved myself so much that I became the people's favorite.'"
Suddenly, Abah understands: he needs to become the "people's favorite" too. He thanks Liora and asks for her name.
"My name is Liora," she replies.
As she leads him to the door, she suddenly collapses and vomits. Alarmed, Abah asks what's happening and how he can help. Liora, in pain, cries out:
"I'm pregnant!!! To your left… the kit, on your left!"
Meanwhile, Tala is pleased with his rising poll numbers despite Bobby's video. However, a member of his party warns him:
"Sure, we're ahead, but Talia has kept the gap from widening. I'm worried that if—"
Tala cuts him off sharply, chewing his gum:
"Her… Find her location immediately! Use NeoAris tech if you have to. There's no way she's going to ruin my plans! Find her, damn it!"
He tosses his gum out the window, a clear demonstration of his disregard for Verdantia's true interests.
With just days to go before the big debate, preparations are in full swing both on set and behind the scenes. Meanwhile, Stelio and Anémone continue their journey, ready for the next chapter: Chapter 5: Electric.