Expected Enemies and Unexpected Allies;Trish saw the heavy hand before it struck her, the Earth woman able to move just enough to lessen the impact of...the blow as it knocked her to the ground. Thus had been the routine between the human and her keeper since the spy had entered the town some four days ago.The scantily clad officer had escaped detection up to the moment she'd entered that small back alley well within the town's borders, wondering just how to introduce herself into the bustling. But the nickname "dope" lingered on. Pa would get himself a "dime dope" and me a nickel one, about half the size of his. We would sit and watch the people go by out on the sidewalk and talk about "things." There was a fair sized magazine rack and we might "look through" a magazine or two.Comic books were not what they are today yet, but there were a couple of children's pulp publications costing a nickel. Now as long as you bought something at the soda fountain you weren't necessarily expected. "Don't let her wait outside, show her in!"Macro did not want to offend Elbar's daughter. The woman who was shown into the atrium was tall and well built, yet she moved hesitantly, and she unconsciously controlled the seat of her veil every few moments. Her voice was cultivated and pleasant though."I thank you for receiving me on such short notice, my Prince," she said nicely."Receiving the visit of Alana, Elbar's daughter, is an honour for me and my household. Would you care for refreshments?. I'll make no promises, but I'll try to keep you better informed in future. In the meantime, if you would read my memos instead of roaming the halls looking for suspected intruders into your domain, it would prevent the need for face-to-face meetings with me."A hush came over the room. Mr. Oldham told the group that the meeting was adjourned, and everyone shuffled out of the room, including Ralph Shepard, who didn't look my way. Tom Pierce made eye contact and mouthed, 'I'll talk to you later.'.