Ministry Protocol: Thrilling Tales of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences
Page 53
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Ever since being assigned to Paris twenty years ago, Anne-Marie had dutifully written up her report every month and sent it on to the Ministry office in London. And every month, the same pigeon had arrived with her cheque, thanking her for her service to the Queen.
It took her some time to compose the report for her first real assignment, and she drank cup after cup of black coffee to the tune of Joe’s snores while she attempted to record every victory and flaw of their escapade. Finally satisfied that she’d provided the most accurate and honest account possible, she limped to the roof. Slipping her missive into a metal tube, she released the pigeon and watched it soar into the clouds toward London. Her heart was a scramble of feelings: had she done well, or had she very nearly failed? Would she remain active and work as Joe’s partner, or would she go back to being a boring baker, forever waiting for excitement to walk through her front door? Would they wait for word from this Doctor Sound or move on Allemande tomorrow? If Joe truly wanted to take down the mad cabaret owner, would Anne-Marie be strong enough to stop him and ensure that he followed protocol?
As she closed the wire door, she noticed an unfamiliar squab pecking at crumbs among her brood; one of the shop girls must’ve found it and forgotten to tell her. She pulled it out and unrolled the message.
Dear Miss Bouvier,
Status: Activated
Your mission: Theodore Gilly, a member of the House of Usher and an enemy of the Ministry, is en route to Notre Dame de Paris to investigate and revenge the death of his brother, Ned Gilly. He will be traveling under an alias, but his size and gorilla-like visage are difficult to hide; an image is included. Gilly is adept at accents, disguises, interpersonal manipulation, hand-to-hand combat, and weaponry. Intercept him at the Gare du Nord; full bodily harm is allowable. In this case, always shoot first; he’ll kill you if he thinks you’re a threat. As we are unable to get a second agent into Paris in time, we are promoting you to an active status, and sending in our closest agent, currently stationed in Callais. Agent Joseph Tipping is half a day behind Gilly and will assist your investigation upon arrival. Agent Tipping is also delivering a replacement tracking ring. Please send this bird back with a message to confirm status and compliance.
Welcome to active duty! Your mother would be proud. Be careful.
Doctor Sound