Cloud Rebel (R-D #3)(58)

Young Larentii are taught that seeking vengeance against the innocent must never happen again.

That is a frightening story, Gerrett shook his head. I think I understand most of it, although I want to weep for the innocents lost.

Me, too, I said. That's why I want to protect you—because you deserve so much better than you have received before now.

And that is why I wish to remain at your side—because you see me as a person and not a slave.

*

Notes—Colonel Hunter

Matt and I sat in the Oval office, while the President stared at his hands. Both rested atop his desk, as if he were contemplating an action he found distasteful. Finally, he spoke.

"We are at war," he said. "A war we cannot declare openly, against those who seek to overthrow our government and all the others. It was their plan last time. It is their plan again. Amelia Sanders is dead because of the enemy. While the country believes it an act of jealousy at the hands of her husband, we understand there were other motives. That makes me—and this office—their next target."

"What do you suggest we do, then?" Matt's unblinking gaze leveled on Granville.

"I want a team of assassins gathered, to attack Phillips' compound. I've had it under surveillance since Graye Sanders was invited there. I only have information as to employees leaving to run errands and then returning. The forensics team that went through Graye's suite found little, but they supplied information as to whom they saw there. I have their reports if you'd like to go over them."

"I assume this attack will in no way be associated with the White House?" I asked.

"An organization will take responsibility," Granville huffed. "A manhunt will ensue. If you want, we have intel on a cell of insurgents hiding in the country. We can haul them in for questioning."

"I'm not sure I like this idea," I stated flatly.

"You won't be involved. Neither will Matt. Hold all your people back—I'm handling this one."

"And when they retaliate?" Matt asked, his voice soft.

"I'm hoping there won't be anyone who realizes the terrorist attack is false," Granville replied.

"Until you realize that Phillips was in league with that bunch since before he left office," Matt snapped, standing abruptly.

"There's an offshoot of that group," Granville began. "They've made some threats."

"I'm aware of that. What if they're in this up to their hairline?" Matt shook his head in disbelief.

"They've stated that they want all Americans dead. I assume that includes former Presidents, too."

"I stand with Matt on this," I said, rising to my feet. "I also understand you're not willing to listen to our advice, since this plan is already in the works. I think it best that we leave now. I have people I'd like to speak with, to see what the potential fallout will be."

"I don't want you to discuss this with anyone," Granville snapped.

"Tell that to Corinne, who will see it in my face. I don't have to open my mouth," I said.

Granville cursed while Matt and I walked out the door.

*

Corinne

"Cabbage?" Ilya walked into the kitchen, where I watched Gerrett devour a massive omelet. Auggie had called moments before, telling me my work as a White House staffer was over. In fact, President Granville had dismissed all the Saa Thalarr guards we'd brought in to protect him.

I understood without asking that Granville's PTSD had kicked in and he was declaring his own war. Those who'd volunteered to guard him and the White House would naturally disagree with his methods and tactics, so he'd sent them away.

"We lost our help," I muttered. "Those who came to guard the White House have been dismissed by the President."

"Because he wants to wage his own war, rather than relying on others to protect him. Foolish," Ilya shook his head.

"I'm worried that he hasn't thought this through. We know what the enemy is capable of doing. I doubt he fully understands. He could end up dead and hand the country right over to those he wants to keep it from."

"The bigger bomb," Ilya sighed. "Your weapon may be able to protect you from your neighbors or petty thieves, but it will be ineffective against the bombs dropped from overhead. You—and your gun—will be destroyed."

"Yeah."

"My love?" Valegar strode into the kitchen. "I just came from the meeting with Gavin and the others—Father invited them to the Archives after their dismissal," he said.

"What did they say?" I asked.

"They say things are not good," he replied. "If I thought I could convince you, I would take you and those you wish to bring with us and leave this world behind. Father says it is too important to abandon. I understand this—from his perspective. From my perspective, it frightens me to stay."

"I feel as if the ground has shifted beneath our feet," I said. "But it hasn't dropped from beneath us. Not yet. We have to stay, honey. You know we do."

"I am concerned about the terrible things to come," he dropped his gaze.

"Honey, terrible may not be a strong enough word."

I still here, Bekzi sent mindspeech. You need, I come.