away.
24 Back in North's room, they discussed the close call, and tried to
figure out what to do about Red Cornet. "I'll take care of that," said Gray Cornet, "he's MY responsibility."
25 "It must look like an accident," North explained.
26 "It will," Gray Cornet assured. "He must be silenced before he can
tell all he knows. I'm afraid I trusted my cousin TOO well!"
27 The next day North heard on the news how two cousins had been
tragically killed in fencing practice when the beam of one of their
weapons had accidently discharged within their shields.
28 "I don't know how the charged power pack got in his weapon," the
Instructor remarked, "they're all supposed to be empty. We take every
precaution."
29 North knew how the power pack had gotten in Gray Cornet's weapon. It
grieved him to lose one of his young workers, but he admired his
courage. It must have taken alot to fire his sword inside the shields,
knowing they would both be incinerated. But he had kept his word. The
traitor could tell The Lord's Guard nothing, and if he HAD told them
who his contact was, they wouldn't be able to question HIM either!
30 The incident rose debate among North's other leaders, though, at
their next meeting. Many were upset over the communications system. It
insured security and lessened the chance of betrayal, but was slow in
emergencies.
31 "You must trust us," argued one of the leaders. "Many of us are
upset. The Hashons know who you are, but you don't trust your own
people. We're loyal. We'll DIE for you. At least those of us
who are your assistants should know your true identity."
32 "But the less we know of each other," argued North, "the less we can
tell if we're captured. I do not doubt your bravery, but they have ways
...drugs, torture, They can tear your mind apart, until you'd betray
your own child if they asked you to."