82. Choices

Spotting a colossal sand barge, Ernest invites input. Humphrey urges a proactive strike, arguing the nomads rely on numbers and intimidation and might be setting an ambush. Jason counters that their duty is escorting coins, not eradicating raiders; attacking an unknown force risks the mission.

After brief debate, most agree: if intercepted again, they will handle it, but they should prioritize delivery. Ernest decides to depart immediately. Humphrey chooses to leave the captured raiders for retrieval by their allies, and the group withdraws without incident.

The skimmers reach a delta relay where coins are shifted into armored, magically driven carriages. Clive inspects for tampering, recalling past artifice that hijacked carriages and why secure crates replace storage powers. Logistics fall to the Duke’s household guard for the final leg to city warehouses.

Amid light banter about salvaging skimmers and Humphrey’s awkward plan to ask Gabrielle for essence “juice,” the team disperses. Later, Jason visits Farrah, who is researching. He confesses he killed many raiders and found it disturbingly easy, even enjoyable, and worries about the consequences of his choices rippling onto others, like Thadwick’s staff.

Farrah advises finding his own balance and accountability, framing her ethic as killing those who deserve it. Their talk is interrupted by a tipsy Rufus arriving with Vincent, revealing their relationship. Jason, reassured by Farrah’s counsel yet unsettled by his feelings, considers visiting Cassandra for a night out.