Fable: A simple yet effective strategy.  

Eilif: For now. There is one thing that can unravel all of that I have worked so hard to build.

Fable: And that would be?

Eilif: Hope, my dear. Caught early enough it can be harmless, but if not dealt with quickly it spreads like a disease infecting everyone around. When people feel hope they feel powerful. When they feel powerful they rebel.

Fable: What is so important about this girl, anyway?

Eilif: How do you think I have stayed in power as long as I have, Fable?

Fable: Superior leadership abilities?

Eilif: [laughs] Fear. I’ve kept power this long because I have all of Millhaven quivering at my feet. The fear of what I will do to them if they dare step a toe out of a line keeps them in check. 

Eilif: Are you here to report on Shade’s recovery?

Fable: He is still resting underground, I am afraid.

Eilif: He can stay there for eternity as far as I concerned. That incompetent fool, he couldn’t even confirm whether or not the rebellion has gotten their hands on the girl or not. The longer he stays there the less I have to deal with him and his insufferable ego.