Arsène nodded. His uniform was dapper and his every movement was graceful and perfect. He reached for a glass underneath the counter and gathered the ingredients for a drink, collecting lavender, milk, and herbs, steeping what was necessary in steaming water.

Valerie retreated somewhere to the back of the cafe and soon returned with dessert; a cherry-filled pie covered with chocolate shavings and topped with crème. Her bright smile stood out from the looks of gloom that Christian had seen from people on the street.

"Is Florian well?" Valerie said.

"Yes, I spoke to him and Tomas," Christian said.

"Oh, Tomas. Are you a friend of his?"

"No, not really. I was writing Florian in regards to joining the Ambrosia Lodge. He said he would help me get an audience with Tomas, but--"

"We aren't accepting new members right now..."

Christian was taken aback. "Are you a member as well, Valerie?"

"Yes--how did--"

"Florian told me to ask for you here. I assumed who you might be. And you must be Arsène, yes?"

Arsène gave a nod and bowed his head.

"Not a very talkative bloke, are you? I don't mind," Christian said.

"He's very amiable once you get to know him," Valerie said.

"Is Arsène a member of the lodge as well?"

"Yes, there aren't many of us, which is why it's a shame we can't induct you as one of our members."

"Will my acceptance into Mars Academy of Sciences convince Tomas to accept me into the lodge?"

"Unfortunately we still wouldn't be able to accept any new members. It's...difficult to explain without divulging private information. But joining the lodge will make you a more desirable candidate for admission into Mars."

"I see."

Christian failed to finish the meal Valerie and Arsène laid before him. The silence of disappointment resonated loudly in the cafe. The hosts watched Christian bury his head in his hands and sigh. Tired.

"Why did you want to join the Ambrosia Lodge, Christian?" Valerie asked softly.

"I... thought I could do some good," Christian said.

"What do you mean?"

The door to the cafe burst open and three officers in uniform barged in. Long, green coats and the symbol of the Frauke embedded onto their hats. They removed their gloves but kept their drenched, dripping coats on as they sat one seat separated from Christian.

"Fräulein, excuse me, three pints for me and my comrades, please," the officer said.