"One piece of good news, one piece of bad news."
Before long, Annan delivered those exact words to Olmedo.
"Let's hear the good news."
At that hour, Olmedo was still signing decrees at the City Lord's Mansion.
Annan opened his mouth, then realized he couldn't start with the good news. "You need to hear the bad news first."
Olmedo paused and smiled helplessly. "Then let's hear the bad news first."
"After two months at sea, the new Origin One is approaching Obiris Strait. They found traces of Ratfolk."
Olmedo set down her quill and called toward the corner of the room, "Tina, I'm going to Star-Moon Bay."
She stepped through the Portal and appeared in Annan's study. It wasn't Olmedo's first visit, but it was her first time there at night. The sea, the breeze, and the quiet town made for a peaceful evening.
"Let's talk outside."
Annan nodded, left Abby to watch the house, and walked with Olmedo onto the Street, heading toward the Bay.
"Tell me what happened."
"The McKennen Clan's Holy Relic, the Calamity Ratfolk, appeared there..." Annan went on to recount what had happened aboard the new Origin One to Olmedo.
"That really is bad news..." Olmedo sighed. She had once feared the Ratfolk would return, but this was too soon, and they were coming in force.
"And the good news?"
"We learned about it months in advance. The McKennen Clan will still need a long time to get here and overcome plenty of obstacles. Star-Moon Bay might not even be their target."
"That sounds like three pieces of good news."
Annan and Olmedo reached the coastal street, where things were a little livelier. The wind carried voices from a distant tavern and the Beach.
"We need to prepare... A Ratfolk Clan wouldn't head north for