72. Cherish

We are finally getting somewhere, four brothels run by what appears to be a larger gang destroyed in two weeks. Followed by two slave labour cartels. However the same problems are still arising. The nearby villages are reluctant to talk to us. I am certain that if Ivan just admitted his identity, told them he was a product of the Shadowlands just like them he would find more information.

Yet my leader has ordered silence, so Halo and I sulkily obey. However, when we return to the villages, dropping off the victims back into the arms of weeping mothers, and shell-shocked brothers there is suspicion.

“Now do you believe we are out to improve the Shadowlands?” Ivan addressed one town square in frustration.

The several dozen adults gathered around looked us up and down hesitantly. Our green uniform still screamed White Forest with the cloaks and V-shape shirts, what made us trustworthy and not an invasion?

“This is the fourth village we have come to, the fourth one where all the pimp