Alex Mercer is experiencing internal conflict between his compliance with protocols and his natural inclination to question and investigate thoroughly.
"Of course not, Agent Cruz. Just trying to soak in all the details." The compliance in his tone was unsettling, even to himself. Feeling the weight of his compliance conflicting with his natural inclination to leave no stone unturned, Alex straightened in his seat. "I agree, Agent Cruz. Protocol is paramount," he said, meeting Taylor's steely gaze. It was an affirmation, but beneath it lay layers of unspoken complexities that would undoubtedly unwind with time. Alex's submission, though seemingly complete, didn't escape Jordan, who tilted their head ever so slightly, their eyes revealing a spark of understanding. They knew well enough the struggle of aligning personal convictions with overarching missions. As everyone began to collect their binders and prepare for departure, a quiet resolve took form within Alex, galvanized by the groundwork laid by their interactions. He may have spoken in compliance, but his determination had merely taken a subtler form — one that wouldn't surrender so easily to the forthcoming shadows.