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“Coordinating an initial assault would take less than a week,” said Helen. “Preparations for a long war would require more time but not likely more than a month. However, if they truly intend to win the people over first, then yes, we do have more time. I would guess four months, if no other complications arise, which is also doubtful.”

Roman adjusted his spectacles. “Well, in any case, we shouldn’t dawdle here.”

‘Agreed,’ said Voreese. ‘We should leave Atreya as soon you’re prepared.’

“And go where?” Helen asked.

‘As far as I know, the nearest Vanguard forces are in Korgum. They do have their hands full with Dozer, though, so they might not want to spare us any soldiers.’

Mehlsanz hovered around Helen. ‘Eh... I’d really prefer not to meet anyone in the Vanguard again.’

“Why did you desert them?” said Roman.

Mehlsanz paused briefly. ‘My previous servant, she grew up in conflict. Even before I resurrected her, she had lived through two wars as a child soldier. It was all she had ever known. And then one day, we found out that her sister had become a servant for Abolish.’

Roman’s expression darkened. “Let me guess. The sister was mentally ill.”

‘Yes. Her sister wasn’t psychotic, but she didn’t really understand the consequences of what she was doing. And her reaper took advantage of that. But of course, the Vanguard had to stop her. She was killing innocent people. And my girl--Valencia was her name--she was just torn to pieces by this knowledge. She wanted to protect her sister, but she couldn’t. She didn’t want to fight her, either, so the higher-ups moved us to a different battlefield. But it didn’t make much difference, at that point. Valencia didn’t want to fight at all anymore. She just wanted to go somewhere and live peacefully.’

‘Fucking Abolish motherfuckers...’