“And run one of the most established areas of Gimel,” Victoria said.

“I ran into some of them when they came to Cauldron, right on the heels of the Irregulars and the whole mess there,” Sveta said. “They were there at the end of the world. They played a big role in it.”

“Credit where credit’s due,” Tristan said.

Victoria had her own arms folded. Fingernails bit into her upper arm. “Give us some intel later, Sveta? Or do you think that would be unfair?”

“I can give some intel.”

Tattletale, business done, stepped away, and when she was at the side of the building, nobody in her immediate area, she leaned against the wall.

She drew a phone out of her pocket, and pressed it to her ear. Reaching into her pocket, she pulled out a lighter, but no cigarette.

No, Rain realized. Not a lighter. It flipped open, but there was only a button on the top.

“What is that?” he asked.

Kenzie hit keys. “No phone calls live.”

“You’re tracking that?” Sveta asked.

“Part of making sure we’re not being listened to. No biggie.”

Tattletale hit the button.

“Uuuuugh,” Kenzie groaned. “What is she doing? This is messing up other stuff.”

“Victoria.”

All eyes went to the screen. It was Tattletale that had talked.

“Optics, or whatever you’re calling yourself now. Capricorn. Sveta. Creepy kid. Boy from the Fallen. Not sure if I just outed you, but there we are.”

“Are we supposed to reply?” Kenzie asked.

“I’m creepy kid?” Chris asked.

“Cute stunt, alleging I’m working with you. I’m sure you have camera footage to help build the lie. Fine. You win. You ruined my day and it’s going to be a headache for a while. This insane grudge you’re nursing? It’d be great to call it even.”

Victoria didn’t move a muscle.

“Fifty-fifty odds you’re shaking your head at me right now, G.H. If you’re not, you’re standing there being all stoic, really wanting to be. Fine. Five of you need to butt the fuck out. The sixth needs to run. These guys really want him gone, and frankly, after hearing what they had to say, I’d almost cheer them on.”

I can’t run, Rain thought. I would have run a long time ago, if I could.