Try Begging

Episode 242

"My suspicions were correct."

They had searched the farmhouse, but all they found were the bodies of the rebels Grace had killed. Her and the child's belongings from the basement were gone. Even after a thorough search of the farm and its surroundings, they found no trace of the child being harmed or any remains, so they felt relieved and moved on to their next operation.

"[To quell the shock caused by the Prescott Circus arson and shooting incident carried out by Nancy Wilkins' gang on Christmas Eve...]"

Grace stood by the window of the annex office, listening to the breaking news on the radio, and gnawed at her fingernails.

"[To serve as a warning to the remaining remnants of the Blanchard rebel group...]"

Just as she had worn down her thumbnail, she started biting her index finger. The door burst open and the man who had gone to headquarters two hours ago entered.

"The news is out."

The man nodded curtly, as if it were obvious, and headed for the desk. As the ones who had orchestrated the news broadcast, there was no need for long explanations. All morning, while waiting for the report on the farm search, the two of them pondered together. If a news article about Leon Winston's death didn't come out within a day or two, Ellie's safety would be in jeopardy. 

They considered faking his death and publishing an article, but quickly dismissed the idea. Leon Winston was a military commander, a count, a member of the nobility, and the head of numerous companies. The repercussions of faking the death of such a well-known figure would be widespread and long-lasting. And most importantly, there was no guarantee that those people would return Ellie even if he was dead. So, they decided to strike first. Or rather, it was more like an irresistible bait.

"[...have decided to carry out the execution.]"

The two of them gambled with someone else's life to save a child's life. It was a dangerous gamble. But it was an unavoidable one. Her fingernail was crushed by her teeth again. Even though she knew it was the best option, Grace couldn't shake off her anxiety.

* * *

"Click. Buzz."

Robert sighed as he turned the radio dial. The signal was weak in the remote cabin. He needed to know if Grace had taken care of that devil. Nancy, who had gone down the mountain, might be able to confirm it.

"With that body of hers, she's quite adventurous."

Perhaps youth was the elixir. Realizing that he wouldn't get anywhere by clinging to a radio that was only spitting out static, he gave up and headed upstairs. As soon as he opened the attic door, the child, who had been lying on the bed, sat up.

 Even though the child was in a place where the sunlight streaming through the small window couldn't reach, Robert could guess. The eyes looking at him through the gap in the crumpled paper bag were filled with disappointment.