The Arrest of Galeni

Haroche’s attempted prosecution of Galeni creates a second crisis, forcing Miles to balance friendship, evidence, and the appearance of impartial authority.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Sudden Interruption

ImpSec Enters the Party Arrest without explanation A colonel and guards arrive to arrest Galeni on Haroche’s order. The public setting leaves him exposed before colleagues and guests, while the reason for the arrest remains withheld. Miles intervenes cautiously Miles cannot prevent the arrest but persuades Galeni to go peacefully. He knows that resistance could turn a confusing order into a humiliating physical struggle.

The Treason Charge

A Career Threatened The accusation The colonel tells Miles that Galeni is charged with treason. Miles calls the charge nonsense, but the arrest team has a direct order and the Emperor’s reception is full of witnesses. A demand for answers Gregor, Laisa, and Delia ask Miles what is happening. Miles has no explanation, only the suspicion that Haroche has acted without consulting him as Auditor.

The Case Against Galeni

Circumstantial Evidence A plausible profile Haroche cites Galeni’s access to the records, his connection to the old Komarran plot, and his anger over Laisa’s engagement. The case appears coherent because it combines opportunity and an apparent motive. A missing foundation Miles knows the evidence remains circumstantial and that Galeni’s emotional outburst occurred in private, not as a covert threat. The gap between a persuasive narrative and proof becomes the central problem.

The Release Delayed

Proof Before Favor A difficult wait Miles does not release Galeni merely on his word, because Haroche could portray that as favoritism. He investigates the ventilation system and assembles witnesses instead. The personal cost Galeni remains in detention while Miles’s seizure and the search delay his visit. The time is painful, but Miles believes only a full account of Haroche’s crime can clear Galeni beyond suspicion.

A Name Restored

The Case Turns Arrest of the accuser The contaminated filter in Haroche’s office proves the general’s involvement. Galeni is released, and the investigation identifies Haroche as the source of the treasonous acts. A future reopened Miles explains why he could not act sooner, and asks Galeni not to abandon his career because of one corrupt superior. Galeni leaves with Delia and a chance to continue his service without the accusation defining him.

During Laisa’s reception at the Imperial Residence

Moments after the arrest order

The night Galeni is arrested

The day after the arrest

Five days after Galeni’s arrest