In the depth of night, I crept into a general's office and planted evidence that he had stolen from another, more pliable officer. When discovered, he was executed - these humans have little tolerance for such behaviour. I presented certain evidence to the new general, and faced with my obvious skills he agreed to allow me a marriage licence. Indeed, marriage licences are being granted to many couples.
The mob's power is lessened. While they still demand protection money, they no longer enforce their crippling labour requirements. The humans are not forced to work for whoever offers them employment, and they can leave if they wish to. I have planted enough blackmail material to ensure that this situation will endure.
There was no real gain to be had in further delay. I invited Sophie over and we exchanged the traditional tokens.
And as I had suspected, our genes were compatible. Her pregnancy was difficult, not the least because of certain factional issues caused by my rivals.
I do not know who authorised the burglary. It was slickly done; we were asleep at the time, and he made off with a crib we had purchased for our expected child and some of my electronics - the stereo being the only one that I'm sure they could understand. It was obviously a message, and I resolved to find out who was behind this; they will discover I am not to be trifled with.
But if I am honest, I am fine with the situation. Just a few short years ago even the criminal element could barely be bothered to pick pockets. Now they are bold enough to sneak into a master thief's house while he is sleeping and steal bulky objects.
Hope has returned. If the price of hope is an easily replaced child's cot, it is a price I am willing to pay. I will punish those responsible of course, but only to keep up appearances.
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