[thirty seven] [Private to Master Lord Thom]

[goodgrasshopper]

You've been quiet, but I'm assuming you weren't pitched overboard at the last port.  ...Actually, I'm hoping you weren't subjected to it at all.  You'd probably have hated it, too.

I'm not sure if you remember me.  I'm Molly Carpenter, and I'm your new warden.  We should talk.

Comments

[goodgrasshopper]

Don't knock it 'til you've tried it. Have you ever played Candyland? [DOUBTFUL.]

[giftedtwin]

I've never even heard of Candyland. [Pause.] It sounds ridiculous.

[goodgrasshopper]

It's completely ridiculous. Trust me. You should try it anyway. Maybe next time, it can be Chutes and Ladders.

[giftedtwin]

[YOU'RE A STRANGE PERSON, WARDEN. SIGH.] ...I suppose it couldn't hurt to try it.

[goodgrasshopper]

[THIS IS TRUE.] I promise, there will be no actual pain involved.

[giftedtwin]

Then I... will play Candyland with you. [Pause.] Is that all for now?

[goodgrasshopper]

Yes--for now. Let me know if you need anything, though, all right?

[giftedtwin]

Mm. [That sounded a little skeptical. The next is probably a lie.] You'll be the first to know if I need something.

[goodgrasshopper]

Uh huh. [She's so sure.] I'll be in touch about our chess-Candyland date.

[giftedtwin]

As you wish.