( They untangle, and it's a strange new world to step in, colder. He stiffens, the initial embarrassment that had guided him now melting into simple awkwardness, like the air of strained ignorance that comes with not knowing how to pose a free hand when asked.

There is too much of himself, and he has so little purpose.

Behind them, the dead complete offloading their burdens, some returning with second, third rounds. They are too clumsy to carry delicately, fragile burdens partly crushed or torn in their hands, but they've made their best attempt of things. It will do.

In the end, Matthias excuses them with a nod, a wave, a moment of frustrated whistling. He is supposed to leave the girl. Has yet to. )

Kamala, listen to me. I want you to listen very closely. The world is not a kind place. And it's often not simple. ( A pause, while he starts to deposit the wares he'd pulled out from his pockets when he'd searched for food. ) The man you're following... he is making a very complex matter into something palatable. Into an enemy you can feel right to vanquish.

( A pause, then another smile. This time, pained. He gathers the doll, tightly. ) Everyone has been nice to you, because no one in your... association has stopped to think that you are all being very cruel.