[ It would be a fight with Pope, Carver knows, because it has always been a fight with Pope. They never stayed in communities; they weren't allowed.

Maybe it could be different with Leah as commander, though. He wonders.

He wonders.

Carver takes a breath in, then lets it go. ]

I understand. I'll tell them, if any of them come here.

[ He's quiet for a long time. Then: ]

My sister would listen, I think. If she's still commander now.