“Alain, how bad is it?” He frowned, trying to gain a better sense of the danger. “It does not feel as bad as what we have seen in the past. More as if…it were something that may be.” “If we’re here when the Mechanics show up?” Mari said. “Mother, we’re heading out fast. Remember my advice, say you haven’t seen us, and everything should be fine. We’ll be watching until we know you’re safe.” She grabbed her mother one more time, holding her tight, then tore herself away. “Come on, Alain.” “Be safe,” Eirene called, then turned to Kath. “Get in the bath.” “What?” Kath protested. “If those Mechanics come here, and you’re in the bath, they won’t think we’ve just had guests of any kind. Get moving, young lady.” Alain nodded in farewell to Mari’s mother and protesting little sister, then followed Mari as she hastened up the alley. “You said we will watch?” he asked. “There’s a place.” Mari gazed at him intently, but Alain did not think she was really seeing him, instead focusing on her memories.
