Popcorn Land (4)
Mountain of Failure
Previously:
Lady Feirwell
“How did we get to this point, Leo? How did most all of Oenus’ youth rebel against us? How have they amassed territory, a military? How did our children become our greatest adversary?”
“You give them too much credit.”
“Do I?”
“They’re a crumbling mountain. Once the right piece goes down, so does it all.”
“Yes, Sir Matthis, I believed your analysis when you brought it to me ten months ago. What will it take for you to understand? I hate it as much as you but it’s time to wake up and accept reality. It’s here and it’s an existential threat. Popcorn Land is a mountain, yes, one built on our collective failure. We created it, we fed it, we allowed it to fester and when it collapses we should be lucky to suffocate in the rubble.”
“You don’t.”
“Excuse me?”
“You don’t hate it as much as I do. Your kids aren’t trapped there. You don’t even have kids.”
“Believe it or not Leo, I am trying to help you. The council believes you shouldn’t be on the mission tonight and I understand why. You don’t want to negotiate with them, you want to get in there, kill as many kids as you have to and get your three children back. You would die recklessly because you still underestimate them, even now. Even after everything they’ve done. All the teachers they slaughtered, parents in front of their—“
“I get it, I get it. Cooler heads. You know me, Bidel. You knew us. Look, I’d do anything to get them back and that includes following your orders. I apologize for any disrespect.”
“‘My Lady’” she corrected him. “And good. Because I told them we need you on that mission tonight. You are there to present strength. But you will not be leading it. And it is not a rescue mission. Intelligence is your goal.”
“Fine… Who will?”
“Sir Wiley.”
“Sir Wiley…” Matthis repeated with a sneer. “Moldy old rag.”
“He’s wise, has sharp instincts, and he is your superior in the field. Do not forget it.”
“May I bring my squire, Donn? He’s a proper lad. Might not hurt to have one younger face amongst us.”
“Ask Sir Wiley. You report to him today. You’re excused, Sir Matthis. May the Lords guide you on your journey into Popcorn Land.”
“Lords have left, My Lady. It’s just us now.”
“The Lords will never leave. They watch over us always.”