Near the memorial at McPherson Square, Washington, D.C.

“I don’t know how this happened.”

“What’s that?”

“These squirrels, they’re back in force. Grey ones, black ones and, hey, is that one red?”

“That is unusual…I thought they were numerous before because they were ‘seeded’ early in the twentieth century in an effort to provide some warmth and charm to the D.C. parks and public spaces.”

“Well the ‘seeds’ germinated into a marauding hoard; how did they ever survive the Iminami?”

“Why don’t you ask one?”

“Don’t encourage them; I do not consider these things charming. My guess, they climbed the trees and buildings during the flood and ate whatever floated by.”

“I bet you’re right, they do look well fed. Isn’t that one the cutest thing?”

“No…and hunting the pesky creatures was outlawed back then too, right?”

“Yep, and so was poisoning them. But, the next time you are in the UK, you can pick one up to roast if you like. They sell’em in supermarkets. What’s gotten into you lately?”

“Ever since we got back, the office has been hectic. My immediate supervisor is okay. I mean we all spent years in rented spaces carrying out our functions, a little travel, but…”

“But now the officials want face time and day long meetings, right?”

“Well even that is tamped down after the reconstitution. I guess, I don’t know…”

“You can tell me. Haven’t we corresponded over the years even when I was in the north? The times we were together were precious…uh-oh, look at the time, we better be heading back.”

“Yes, Izzy, we have, they were and soon. Move squirrel…”

“Why are you on your knee?”

“I have to get this out…will you marry me Izzy?”

“Yes, Peter, I’d be honored to marry you.”