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~~((National Rescue Dog Day - page 12 of 20))~~
'The more I learn about this town, the less I like it,' said Ezura. 'If Graves is really here in Ridgemark, then why the hell hasn't he gotten rid of Abolish?'

Evangelina could tell where she was headed with that question. 'Officer Brand didn't name any Abolishers who can stand up to a Field Marhsal.'

'Exactly. So why's he dragging his feet?'

'Maybe he is worried about collateral damage. There are plenty of innocent tourists still in the city. And if the casinos refuse to evacuate civilians, then I imagine Graves' job becomes much more difficult.'

'You might be right,' said Ezura, 'but even if that is the case, the question remains: why doesn't he just strong-arm them into evacuating the city?'

Evangelina tipped her head to the side a little, considering that thought. 'Technically, the Vanguard is supposed to respect local sovereignty.'

'Hah!'

'I am aware that we represent a rather potent counterexample.'

'An understatement if ever there was one. I don't believe for a second that Graves is just sitting around like a good little boy. This country is at war. Local sovereignty, collateral damage--these things are already in flux, at the moment, even without the Vanguard's input. If he hasn't run Abolish out of here, it's not because he doesn't want to. Someone really strong must be getting in his way.'

Evangelina almost didn't even want to say it. '...The RPMP?'

The reaper sighed. 'I don't want to entertain the idea that they could have someone that powerful on their payroll, but right now, it's looking like the only explanation.'

A worrisome thought, to say the least. But Evangelina could also see a potential bright side. 'Well... if that really is the case, then perhaps that is to our advantage.'

'Maybe. But I've never been much for optimism.'

A faint smile crossed Evangelina's lips. 'Believe me, I know.'