The driver quickly pointed out, "Could it be because of the Transition? It's only natural that they had to pause to send off their comrades while waiting for the fresh faces to arrive. With all the adjustments necessary, a pause would simply facilitate the Transition much better."

"That's true," Marvin sighed. "And I guess the Transition can be a sensitive period for the armed cavalry guards, if not a bit cruel. I mean, I've worked with Roy for years, and we get along pretty well. I wouldn't mind saying that the sudden change in hierarchy annoys me too, but all we can do is pray that we don't get Transitioned too."

One of the men in the back seat asked nervously, "Sir, are you saying it could happen to us?"

"How should I know?" Marvin sighed in exasperation. "I will only find out if we're getting Transitioned too. Otherwise, there won't be a peep. And if it ever happens to us, we have no choice but to follow orders."

The man appeared mournful right then. "My son isn't even a year o