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((The Mon/Wen/Fri Double -- page 1 of 2))
Hector abruptly felt like he would have to be the one to get the conversation back on track. "...Do you know anything specific about the Vanguard and Abolish members who are stationed here? How strong they are? Who they report to?"

'I'm afraid not,' said Hanton. 'But if you don't mind, I shall attempt to use this visit of yours as an opportunity to learn precisely that kind of information.'

Voreese gave a short laugh. 'Don't wanna risk it without someone there to protect you in case things go pear-shaped, eh?'

Hanton allowed a beat to pass. 'Yes. Frankly, that is my exact concern.'

'Heh, well, I can't say I blame you,' said Voreese.

'I should hope not,' said the Sparrow. 'Reapers aren't exactly known for their courage, either.'

'True. And I know it's a convenient excuse, but there's only so much we can do without physical bodies of our own to work with.'

'How droll. In any event, while I may not be able to tell you about the other servants in the country, I can at least tell you about the President, if you are interested.'

'Please do,' said Garovel.

However, Voreese answered first. 'His name is Allen Dance, and he was elected under highly unusual circumstances. His opponent, Clark Griffon was the previous President who was running for a third and final term, and by all accounts, it seemed like Dance was going to be crushed in a landslide. But one day before the final debate was to be held, Griffon dropped out of the race with no explanation.'

Hector blinked. Come to think of it, he thought he remembered hearing about some crazy political stuff like that a few years ago.

'Griffon's party nearly dissolved overnight,' Voreese went on. 'They managed to prop up a last minute replacement for him to debate Dance, but Dance absolutely wiped the floor with him.'