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((The Mon/Wen/Fri Double -- page 2 of 2))
Medicinal, was it? Hector was curious enough for elaboration on that point, but Garovel decided to intervene with a more pressing question.

'Since you're here, how much do you know about the political situation in Lorent?' the reaper said.

'Ah, yes,' said Hanton. 'This nation is being pulled in multiple directions, at the moment. The political factions here have been split on a variety of subjects for several years now, but primarily, it all revolves around militarization. Lorent has historically relied very heavily on Intar to help secure its borders, but a growing number of congressional representatives have been arguing that Lorent needs to become more militarily independent.'

'I see,' said Garovel. 'And I suppose the war has only been emphasizing that problem for them.'

'Indeed,' said Hanton. 'I believe that this issue with the so-called Beast of Lorent was unifying them temporarily due to how pressing it was, but now that Lord Goffe has apparently taken care of that problem for them, the divisions will return--and quickly.'

Oh. Great.

'Nice going,' said Voreese flatly. 'What were you guys thinking, saving all those innocent people from mutilation and death? Now a bunch of politicians are going to start arguing again!'

Roman smacked his lips. "You're right. We can only apologize for our thoughtlessness."

'I was not trying to blame anyone for anything,' said Hanton. 'I was merely pointing out the facts.'

'And I was merely making an observation,' said Voreese. 'Continue.'

There arrived a sizable pause as Hanton was perhaps considering if she was being serious or not. 'The factions here are numerous, but with the continental war putting pressure on them, I expect some of them will begin compromising and merging in order to gain as much influence in the Lorentian Congress as they can.'

'Were you aware that the Vanguard and Abolish are in this country?' asked Garovel.