After the opening above them closed, AA Bianca held up a lantern that illuminating the platform in a weak glow.

    "I apologize for the lack of lighting Decider, but the nature of this platform interferes with stronger technology."  AA Bianca fiddled with the lantern, making it marginally brighter.  "How about we use this rare tranquility to answer some of your many questions?"

    "No thank you."  Sawyer was scared, terrified almost.  Why had he not run?  Why had he stepped on the platform?  He must be already 40 feet underground and descending with no idea of how to make the platform ascend!  How could he escape now?

    "I know what you're thinking." interjected AA Bianca, sitting down on the hard stone.  She continued to talk with a kind, but firm tone.  "That you are in mortal danger, that the Engelican people are all evil murderers and criminals.  Your teacher might have told you that, your own mother might have told you that.  It's not true."

    There was more than a fraction of truth to her words.  Nationalist propaganda had been nailed into Sawyer's head since he was 2 days old and it was going to take more than a few kind (however true they might be) words to change that.

    "Look, you're a smart boy.  Does it make sense that ever other superpower in the world is a cesspit of villainy?  The world isn't what you've been taught, the People's State of Engelica isn't a nest of boogeymen, rapists and murderers."  AA Bianca looked at Sawyer's indignant face much set in the ways of denial and sighed.  It wasn't a sigh that signaled resignation, more an acknowledgement of necessary copious amount of future effort.  "I know that you have no reason to trust me-  And I am sure that nothing I say will make you do as thus, but know that I am an ally.  A friend even, if the Fates may allow."

    Sawyer's unconscious propaganda brainwashing loosened slightly, a few bricks having been removed by the sheer genuine caring in AA Bianca's voice.  Sawyer and his mental conditioning didn't know what to make of AA Bianca and her perplexing kindness.  The Engelicans are all villainous schemers and traitors, whispered the countless chauvinistic advertising campaigns.  Sawyer pushed them aside.

    "Fine." accepted Sawyer with the self-importance of a pre-adolescent.  "Just promise me one thing."

    "Of course."  AA Bianca looked surprised but happy.  She extended a hand for Sawyer to shake.

    "Never lie to me." demanded Sawyer, shaking her hand, solidifying their pact.

    "I never have and never will.  You can trust.  Now, hold on to my hand tight, our journey to the Common Council is nearing its end.  The moment this platform stops and the light turns expect no respite, no rest.  The Common Council is relentless in their inquiry."  AA Bianca steeled her face and removed all emotions from it, which could be dangerous when talking to the Common Council.