“Yes. Shalev has nearly seventy thousand people—it’s the largest. There are four main cities in the Alliance, and numerous smaller towns and villages.”

“Seventy thousand?”

“Right. Close to a quarter million of us, altogether.”

“That’s incredible! We had no idea any groups that large had survived. Especially anywhere close to us.”

“Yes, and while we don’t have everything like it was before Termination, we have a very comfortable life. Electricity, schools, automobiles. We even have a university and a symphony orchestra.”

“Termination,” Cliff mused softly, making Eric strain to hear his words. “An appropriate title. We simply refer to it as before or after.” He lowered his rifle and stepped forward, extending his hand. “I’m Dr. Clifford Cameron, from the village you’re looking for.”

“Wonderful! Dr. Cameron, we’re delighted to find you.” The man gave a small laugh. “Or rather to have you find us.”

“Yes. I apologize for the initial wariness, but—”

“I understand,” the other said quickly. “We have to watch some of those wandering around the country too. Well, if you’d care to join us, we’ll get this tree out of the way and push on to your village.” He looked up at the late afternoon sky. “If we hurry, we can be there before nightfall.”

Eric could hear the edge in Cliffs voice as he stepped back suddenly. “By nightfall?”

“Yes. Not that we can’t travel after dark, but…”

“I thought you didn’t know where the village was,” Cliff said slowly.

“Oh,” the other man said, his voice tinged with nervousness. “We don’t. I was just assuming it must be fairly close. I mean—well, you’re here, and I just thought…” His voice trailed off, and it was obvious even he knew how flimsy his words sounded.

Eric was suddenly wary. The man was lying, and poorly at that, though he wasn’t exactly sure why. He jerked the rifle up again and notched back the safety. Cliff laughed softly. “Oh, I see. Well, you’re right. It isn’t really that far from here. In fact, I have my horse up in the trees. Why don’t I just cut over the mountain and tell the village the good news. Just follow this old highway. We’ll meet you where the highway crosses the river about five miles further on. It’s the first bridge. You can’t miss it. Then we can show you the way into the valley.”

“But, Dr. Cameron, it would be so much better if you’d help us find the way.”

Cliff shook his head, then raised his hand in farewell and started moving away. “Really, you’ll be fine. Just stay on this highway. I’ll be there before you. I’m much too excited to wait. The people will be so surprised.”