The crowd falls silent and parts as he approaches. Children clutch at their mothers' skirts; the mothers whisper urgently. Anyone who meets his gaze looks away at once.
"I heard they take children and turn them into killing machines," a woman murmurs.
"I heard they kill anyone who praises the monarchy," an old man says.
"Quiet," another hisses. "Do you want to be noticed?"
Ludwig pulls on his cap and climbs into the cart.
"So?" Jake asks, rubbing his hands together. "What will it be, sir?"
"We depart in half an hour," Ludwig says.
Jake nods, though his leg taps against the floor. Outside, the crowd slowly disperses, leaving only a few lingering figures whispering and pointing.
"Out with it," Ludwig says calmly.
Jake swallows. "I… I'm sorry, sir. It's just—" He glances toward Paul's building. "You've seen the office."
Ludwig's stare stops him cold.
"Please don't misunderstand," Jake continues quickly. "The office has great historical value, but it's falling apart. The roof leaks. The walls are close to collapse."
"It costs more every year to maintain—money better spent elsewhere. The armory is in shambles, and I've had to dismiss guards. And now that Paul won't be using this property, I thought—"
"You want to make it the municipal office."
"Yes, sir."
"No." Ludwig's tone is final. "The council will send a legislator. If you wish to proceed, you will write to them."
Jake bows. "I understand, sir. I only hoped—"
"No." Ludwig looks back to the street. "Write to the council."
He watches as the guards escort Paul outside, surrounding him with practiced ease.
"And whatever funds he possesses will go to the treasury first," Ludwig adds. "Now return to your duties, Mayor."
Jake stiffens, bows again, and steps out into the street. Ludwig follows as Paul is brought forward.
"Get in." Ludwig commands.
Paul unceremoniously steps in, sitting at the far edge of the cart. Ludwig looks at the remaining crowd before getting in and closing the door.
The cart lurches forward, and quickly the tall building that was Paul's home is nothing more than a small dot on the horizon.