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Morgunov was still blabbering on while Dozer hardly listened. Doubtless, the fool would never give up trying to convince the entire world--including himself--of his ultimate and noble brilliance, but Dozer had no patience for that, right now. Even if they had all the time in the world, it wasn’t enough.

Dozer had seen and heard that song and dance far too many times. Morgunov was an ally, but only in the most superficial sense. The appearance of their partnership was more important than the actuality of it. In the end, the so-called Mad Demon could never be trusted in any meaningful capacity.

The only thing he could ever be was useful.

‘--stick in the mud! I’m offerin’ to help you out, y’know! Just like always! And yeah, I might get a little silly with it, every now and then, but I always come through, don’t I? When have I not, huh? I mean, besides the rocket prank.’

‘Do you know why Sermung is not here?’ said Dozer.

‘Hmm? That dull jerk? No idea. I keep expecting him to, and he keeps not showing up. Honestly, it’s kind of disrespectful, don’t you think? I mean, how often do we give him a prime opening like this? And what, he’s too busy to make time for us, these days? Don’t make a lick of sense, if you ask me. But I know one thing: if he keeps on leaving us hanging like this, then pretty soon, I’m gonna make sure he’s REALLY got somethin’ to keep him busy.’

‘Is that right?’

‘Sure is. Curious? Go ahead and ask. Maybe I’ll tell you! If you start being nicer to me!’

‘I’d sooner die ignorant.’

‘Pah! You’re certainly on course for that!’

‘What about Sai-hee? Do you know anything of her whereabouts?’

‘Maaaybe. Why? Think she’ll decide to make an appearance, too? Seems doubtful to me, but I wouldn’t mind seein’ that old bat again!’

‘She will never warm to your advances.’

‘Says you! So negative! I’m telling you, one day, she’ll come around! And then our children will become the stuff of legends!’

‘The stuff of nightmares, more like.’

‘Well, that’d be cool, too.’ Morgunov broke for a telepathic cackle. ‘What about you, old man? Made any new lady friends since I last saw you? Any new kids? Hmm? Hmmmm?’

‘Even if I had, why would I share that information with you?’

‘Uh, because I’m the best godfather ever? Obviously.’