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He couldn't say? Evangelina found that very odd. Why would the location that Officer Brand had been observing the situation from be a classified subject?

"Did those people say anything to you that you would like to report?" said Brand. "Any information you could provide regarding their activities or plans would be greatly appreciated."

"Unfortunately, they did not tell us anything like that," said Melchor.

"Are you sure?" said Brand. "I should add that there is a financial reward for actionable intel on these people."

A reward?

Truthfully, that did pique Evangelina's interest a bit. Too bad the mission came first.

"We are quite certain," said Melchor.

Diego decided to chime in. "Would you mind if we asked you a question, Officer Brand?"

"Of course. Feel free."

Diego adjusted his crimson hood and cloth mask. "How far does the RPMP's jurisdiction extend, precisely?"

Ah. Good question, Evangelina thought.

"The city limits," said Brand.

"I see," said Diego. "So the town of Miro is of no concern to you, then?"

And for the first time, Officer Brand's easy smile turned into a frown. "I'm afraid so."

"Hmm?" Diego's head perked up a little. "Is that remorse I hear in your voice, Officer Brand?"

The policeman made no response.

"Could it be that you know what's happening there?" said Diego.

"Not exactly, but the rumors aren't pleasant. But the same can be said for the rest of the nation. My job is to prevent those same things from happening here."

"I see," said Diego again.

And there was silence.

Evangelina expected more questions from the policeman, but he didn't offer any. Perhaps he was expecting more from them.

She decided to seize the lull in the conversation for herself. "Perhaps I shouldn't be asking this, but you've been very amicable thus far, and I would like to trust you, if only a little. Why have you not asked us what we are doing here?"

"It is not my business to interfere with yours," said Brand.