Page 10 of Devlin

“Do we start with the food warehouse?” Devlin asked, ready to get down to business.

Margarethe shook her head. “Not yet. First, we’ll meet Dr. Horace München, the head of the camp. He oversees the entire operation, coordinates with international and government agencies, and liaises between them and the camp. He’s also responsible for maintaining order across the villages.”

“Sounds like a hell of a job,” Cole muttered.

Margarethe chuckled, nodding in agreement. “It is. But it’s essential to check in with him first. Everyone working in the camp reports to Dr. München when they arrive.”

The van slowed to a stop outside a rudimentary two-story building. Its construction was basic but functional, withpeeling paint and reinforced windows that hinted at both resourcefulness and the challenges of the environment.

Jonan stepped out first, his ever-present smile firmly in place. “I can take your belongings to the guesthouse,” he offered. “Just leave them here.”

“Thanks, but we’ll keep them with us,” Devlin replied firmly. They weren’t about to part with their equipment or firearms.

Jonan nodded, unbothered, and stepped aside to let them unload their duffels. The Keepers followed Margarethe into the building, passing through a reception area where a young woman sat behind a counter. She greeted Margarethe warmly, and the two exchanged a few words before Margarethe led the group down a short hallway and up a narrow staircase.

“Moses!” Margarethe called as they reached the top.

Devlin’s eyes landed on a towering man standing near the window. His build was imposing, and his presence commanding. He was dressed in full military gear, complete with body armor and a sidearm holstered at his hip. His expression was serious but relaxed as Margarethe approached.

She turned with practiced ease to make the introductions. “Moses, these are the men assisting me with an inventory in food storage. The WFP approved them as security. We’re about to meet with Dr. München, and I’d be glad if you could join us.”

“It would be my pleasure,” Moses replied, his smile directed at Margarethe. Though his demeanor appeared calm, his sharp eyes appraised the Keepers, lingering on each of them for a moment longer than necessary.

Margarethe led the way to an open door, pausing to knock on the frame before stepping inside. The room beyond was modest in size, made to feel even smaller as the group filed in. Devlin quickly took stock of the space. A cluttered desk, stacked high with folders and papers, sat at the center of the room. Behind it,maps of the camp lined the walls, dotted with pins and scribbled notes.

Dr. Horace München, tall and thin, stood as they entered. His gray hair was neatly combed, and his glasses perched precariously on the bridge of his nose. Despite his slightly wrinkled clothes, his presence exuded a quiet authority.

“Margarethe,” he greeted warmly, rounding his desk with open arms. He embraced her briefly before pulling back. “It’s always a pleasure to see you.”

“And you as well, Horace,” she replied with a smile. “Thank you for seeing us on short notice.”

Dr. München’s gaze shifted to the men behind her, curiosity sparking in his expression. “I understand you’ve brought security with you. Should I be worried?”

“We’re making a food delivery and reviewing inventory,” Margarethe explained smoothly. “Allow me to introduce Jim Devlin, Cole Iverson, and Todd Blake. They’re private security, approved by the WFP, and will assist me during my stay. They are authorized to stay after I leave and will investigate any problems. You know how thorough the WFP can be.”

Dr. München’s serious expression softened into a welcoming smile. “Welcome to Uganda and Camp Bidi Bidi,” he said, extending a hand.

“Dr. München.” Devlin clasped the offered hand firmly. “Thank you for having us. I usually just go by Devlin.” Devlin shifted his attention to Moses, who stood silently at Margarethe’s side.

Margarethe gestured toward the head of security. “I’m glad Moses is here. These men are armed, but it’s purely procedural. Like Moses, they’re former military and highly trained. I thought it best for you to meet so there’s complete transparency.”

Moses gave a small nod of approval. “I offer my own welcome to Uganda,” he said, his voice deep and steady. “The camp runsefficiently, and I hope Margarethe will not need your assistance, but you are welcome here. With the influx of newcomers this week, my officers are stretched thin. If your presence helps ease the load, I’m all for it.”

With that, Moses gave a curt nod and exited the room, his boots thudding against the wooden floor. Dr. München turned his attention back to Margarethe, offering logistical details. “Your accommodations are prepared,” Margarethe said. “Once we’ve settled, I suggest heading directly to the warehouse. The food delivery you brought with you will need to be sorted and logged.”

Another round of handshakes followed, and the group made their way out of the administration building.

Outside, the sun bore down relentlessly, the air thick and humid. Jonan waited by the van, his ever-present grin lighting up his face. As they approached, Margarethe turned to the Keepers. “The guesthouse accommodations are rudimentary,” she said with a touch of humor. “But I’m sure you’ve seen worse.”

Devlin chuckled, his easy demeanor belying his alertness. “I assure you, we’ll be fine.”

Margarethe smiled warmly and turned to Jonan. “If you could take my things to Elaine’s quarters, I’ll stay with her. These gentlemen can handle their belongings—it’s just a short walk to the guesthouse.”

Jonan nodded, giving a small wave before climbing back into the van. The vehicle rumbled down the dusty road, kicking up a soft plume of red earth in its wake.

“Elaine is Dr. Elaine Parker, the head medical officer of the camp,” Margarethe explained as they began walking. “She and I met twenty years ago, and we’ve been close friends ever since. Whenever I visit, she lets me stay in a small room that doubles asan office. It’s cozy, with a little bed tucked in the corner. It’s like being roommates again.”

The Keepers fell into step behind her, their boots crunching softly against the packed earth. The road was bordered by grass and vibrant trees. Overhead, the blue sky stretched endlessly, dotted with cotton-white clouds that offered brief moments of shade from the relentless sun. A faint breeze stirred the air, carrying the mingled scents of earth, wood, and distant cooking fires.

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