Las Ramblas. I stop following Lucas when the road flattens out in front of us, at the top of the hill. “Do you have any idea where you’re going?” He points. “All the major roads run west to east in the Hole. Las Ramblas will take us there.” I nod, but I’m impressed. I only know the basics—that Las Ramblas is known for its massive crowds, and that today is no different. The crush of people is dizzying, particularly for me. I can’t think—at least, I can’t separate out what I think from what the world is thinking. “You said you’re here to meet someone?” I fumble to string together the words. He nods, but doesn’t answer. “Who, Lucas?” “You’ll see when we get there. This way.” Lucas motions, and we begin to move eastward into the Hole. We walk beneath the giant banners that flutter in the air over the city streets. Here’s what I learn in the span of a few short blocks: The Lords Are Generous. The Embassy Is Kind. The People Are Lucky. The Future Is Bright.
