A flash of annoyance crossed Alistair's eyes, but he still made the introduction. "Mr. Zeller, this is Mr. Conan Spade from headquarters, a joint investigator. Given the international implications of this case, they're taking it quite seriously."

Conan scoffed at these words. "Mister? Really, Alistair? You're getting soft—since when do we address suspects as 'mister'?"

"How I address people is my business," Alistair shot back. "As long as the investigation is thorough, my manners aren't your concern."

Ignoring the exchange, Conan dropped heavily into the chair across from Felix. "The voice recordings and videos from your phone have been authenticated—it's definitely you, Felix. No amount of denial will help unless you can provide an alibi, so you'd better come with us right now."

He added with menace, "And if you resist, we're authorized to use lethal force!"

Conan's hostility was crystal clear, but Felix chose not to dwell on it. He replied, "I actually do have an alibi, though