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’As you say, sir We’ll wait for the snake, then -- how long should we give him afore we chase after you?’

’Spindle assures me the delay will be a short one Expect Quick Ben some time today’

’And if he don’t show?’

’He’ll show’

’But if he don’t?’

With a growl, Parana baffled expression on Picker ’What if Quick Ben don’t show?’

’You idiot, Antsy’

’It’s a legit question, daot hiot a brain in there soe don’t show up, so, and if that happens we’re better off hightailing it -- anywhere, so long as it’s away Fro’

Antsy’s red face paled ’Why won’t he ? Picker-’

’Ain’t nothing’s gone wrong, Antsy! Hood’s breath! Quick Ben will get here today -- as sure as that sun just rose and is even now baking your brain! Look at your new squad e -- you’re e the rest of us!’

Antsy snarled and cla at? Get to work! You, Mallet, give Detoran a hand -- I want those hearthstones level! If the pot tips because they weren’t, you’ll be sorry and I ain’t exaggerating neither And you, Hedge, go find Spindle-’

The sapper pointed up the hill ’He’s right there, Sergeant Checking out that upside-down tree’

Hands on hips, Antsy pivoted, then slowly nodded ’And it’s no wonder What kinda trees grow upside-down, anyway? A smart man can’t help but be curious’

’If you’re so curious,’ Picker o and look for yourself?’

’Nah, what’s the point? Go collect Spindle, then, Hedge Double-time’

’Double-tioing anywhere!’

’You heard ing up the slope After a few strides, he slowed to a stagger Picker grinned

’Nohere’s Blend?’ Antsy deht here beside you, sir’