act22side

And meanwhile, all our errant representatives were circling thousands of kilometers out, patiently pulling through several weeks just to tell the Duke one single thing.

Harmonie, you'd best stand on The Leader's side.

Or else?

Mandragora is dead. I can stop investigating your whim to assist her.

But she—she's still alive.

Oh, you mean that dear, pitiful Loughshinny.

We cannot have a repeat of 'The Elocutionist's' conspiracy in County Hillock. Each day she lives is a threat to Dublinn and The Leader.

The Leader has assigned control of her whereabouts to you. Don't let personal considerations affect you any further, Harmonie. You have little leeway left to fail.

Oh, you do fantasize far too much about the emotional life of a professional spy.

Fine, fine, you can stop boring into me with your eyes, 'Brigadier', unless you want to help by applying my makeup. I do have a dinner party to attend.

Not bad, Fionn. Just like back then. I always think you're a bit useless, but then every time, you get something done.

*sigh* What use is borrowing this bit of rations going to do?

Those two are Victorians, right? They say, they'll go to the city to replace anything we don't need, and sort you lot out some batons for self-defense.

Shouldn't you be happy about getting a decent weapon?

Fine, you listen to your little radio, check if they're broadcasting about merchants being looted. Maybe those cowards are scared Dublinn will get back at them. Might not even report it at all...

...Hey, Fionn?

What are you peering at back there?

...That Infected handful. They've been following us at a far distance since we left the village.

Still? Surprised they've kept up with us going so fast, and them with their sick legs and children to carry.

Right, it must be murder on them coming with us.

I... I'm worried for Moran.

Her eyes went bad in that famine a few years back. She can't see the way in the dark. Now with the lights-out happening, there's not even a single lamp left on.

Oh, no, that's sorry to hear. So, can I ask what they're doing following us? Do we look like some kind of rescue team?

I don't know. Er, probably it's the clothes you're wearing?

Look, aside from me, everyone regards you like you're a real member of Dublinn.

And everyone knows Dublinn's good to the Tarans. It's simple as that.

...I'll—go and see them.

Oh, you made me jump... Your voice sounds a little quivery, say. You alright?

...It wouldn't be bad—to have more people standing on guard duty... It'll be easier to avoid the patrol.

I'll... bring them with me.