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    was listening. A thick polearm strapped to his back gave the man a rather intimidating visual appearance, contrasting his actual polite, even friendly, demeanor.


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    “for apologizin’… I’m gonna scream at the top o’ my lungs, lad.”


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    “deep, like rumbling earth. He shifted the oil lantern to his other hand and lowered the shield, dimming the light and plunging the surrounding area into darkness. He reached for the polearm strapped to his back as he stepped closer to the bushes.


    “are dealin’ with the vultures. What do you think?”


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    ———


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    Get it together, he told himself. Focus. A feeling washed over him, a greenness, and his mind sharpened, straightened like an arrow drawn back in a bow.


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    did mean that she had to get inside that compound, but… Flocks. It wasn’t every day you saw an intimidating display like that. Only sheer force of will kept Luke’s jaw from dropping, but when he eyed Daniels, the captain was not so assiduous. He closed it quickly and hurried after her with Luke.


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    ———


    Is height even hereditary? Cyrus wondered. He had no idea. His education was probably limited compared to people from big cities.


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    ———


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    “—


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    At least it’s going to be lighter now.


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    teach that to somebody. It was as if the man had been doused with cold water as a prank, and found it distinctly unfunny. Even after the soldiers had come and gone, Daniels maintained that air of deadly seriousness.


    You’re the impressive one, Luke thought. I’ll admit it. Just not out loud.