Twelve people sat around a huge circular table.
They were mostly association executives and other high ranking people in the association.
Cipher sat at one of the seats with Selene and Maya standing behind him on either side.
"It's just like I said. My friends aren't products that I own that I can just give out to whoever asks," Cipher said with a firm expression.
A man across the table - middle-aged with graying hair slicked back, wearing an expensive suit - had a displeased expression. "Don't be so selfish. This is a matter concerning the Association. You should give her up to me, and I can make her an excellent healer for the Association at the level of Elaine."
The others remained silent.
Cipher sighed. Indeed, not everyone was agreeable in the Association.
Maya, who stood behind Cipher, looked on nervously.
Cipher turned to her. "Maya," he called out.
"Yes?" she responded.
"What do you want?" he asked.
