Dreams of Peace: Book of the Protectorates #4

By D. Jeremy Doraido

Enforcer Jacob is away at a special school, learning how to cope with his coming blindness. A new threat has entered Protectorate life to destroy the fragile peace for members and citizens. Clarence Foster has organized a group of young men with the intention to overthrow the government. Jason Aurelius and Aaron are caught in the field tending patients when violence comes to their basically quiet town. They are forced to seek refuge with the Stuffer family. Many others in the field have been murdered. Including two members who have stood by Jason Aurelius as loyal Enforcers. If that isn’t enough for Healer to handle, Aaron tells him the truth about the venom which Frederick administered when he was twenty-one. A safeguard venom to keep him pure, not a dictator like Luther Manfred. There will come a time when it stabilizes. But what must he endure until that date in the future?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu Publishing Services
• Release date: Jul 23, 2019
• ISBN: 9781684704682

Book preview

DREAMS OF PEACE

Book of the Protectorates #4

D. Jeremy Doraido

Copyright © 2019 D. Jeremy Doraido.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted by any means—whether auditory, graphic, mechanical, or electronic—without written permission of the author, except in the case of brief excerpts used in critical articles and reviews. Unauthorized reproduction of any part of this work is illegal and is punishable by law.

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission. NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION® and NIV® are registered trademarks of Biblica, Inc. Use of either trademark for the offering of goods or services requires the prior written consent of Biblica US, Inc.

New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

ISBN: 978-1-6847-0469-9 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-6847-0468-2 (e)

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Lulu Publishing Services rev. date: 05/28/2019

Books by D. Jeremy Doraido

General Fiction

Dream Catcher

Sanctuary

Chicken-In-the-Kitchen Farm

Adult Science Fiction

With Darkness Come - Book of the Protectorates # 1

Where Evil Dwells - Book of the Protectorates # 2

A Taste of Venom - Book of the Protectorates # 3

Dreams of Peace - Book of the Protectorates # 4

Release 2020

Life of Grace - Book of the Protectorates # 5

email - [e-mail]

website - doraidojeremy.com

Dedicated to Pastor Daryl, Valerie, Rhett and Cora Sue Welch.

This family has been a inspiration to my Christian walk.

PROTECTORATE CHANT

Grant us inner peace as we serve our fellow man.

Help us to be merciful to those entrusted to our care.

By the oath of service, may we think not of ourselves,

But live a life of grace as members of these Protectorates.

And if the time should come, a choice we must make,

Let us pass with honor, our lives for those we serve.

Pray, grant us strength to remember our dreams of peace,

And keep the trust in safety till all unite once more.

MEMBER BLESSING

Go in peace and safety

And may none draw your precious blood.

ASSEMBLY CHAIRS

1st. Frederick - Internal Medicine

2nd. Raymond - OB/GYN

3rd. Jason Aurelius - Pediatrics

4th. Harrold - Trauma

5th. Curtis - Neurology

6th. Tristam - Psychiatry

7th. Bellamy - Orthopedics

8th. Leland - Sports Medicine

9th. Aaron - Lawgiver/Research Scientist

HOUSES

Supreme Guardian always heads Assembly and Court Assembly.

HEALERS

Physicians and Research Scientists

Leaders - Assembly (8 Guardian Masters)

LAWGIVERS

Judges and Enforcers

Leaders - Court (8 Guardian Masters)

LAND MANAGERS

Leaders - Bureau (8 Guardian Masters)

TEACHERS

Leaders - Council (8 Guardian Masters)

CHAPTER 1

W HAT WERE YOU PLAYING WHILE I WAS GETTING DRESSED? JASON Aurelius asked, entering the office, attempting to straighten his black sash.

I haven’t named it yet, Aaron replied, sitting down at the table and putting his napkin on his lap. Excuse us a minute, Healer, he said, bowing his head for grace.

Farrell bowed her head and thanked the LORD for their food, also asking Him to guard their day of work.

I was writing it for your Joining with Jacob when he gets back from blind school in a month or so.

Has he totally lost his vision? What have you heard?

Not completely, Levi said.

I suppose he’s going to require time to adjust. He’ll need our support.

I’m well aware of it, Healer. Don’t worry. He’s my responsibility.

So, do you have any names in mind? Jason Aurelius asked, finally figuring where his sash was twisted.

For the song? A few. Something to do with peace. Don’t we all want these conflicts to end? I had a message from Levi sent to all Lawgivers about a group of rebels trying to stir up trouble again. So far they’ve been up in the Northern states, not near us. Don’t worry, Healer, all Protectorates are keeping a watchful eye on them. We’ll know if they enter our area. Hopefully they’ll be disbanded before they ever get near New Maryland. Aaron reached for the bacon platter to put several more pieces on his plate."

I figured out why I disliked the Joinings, Jason Aurelius said, to change the subject before his stomach became ill.

Aaron glanced up from his plate of eggs and bacon. Okay, I’m supposed to ask why, he said, looking over at Farrell as they shared breakfast time together. Both were dressed in slacks and brown tee shirts. Neither wore boots.

Earwires. I hated those things.

You haven’t worn them for two years. Not since Garrett took them out when you were sent to the holding cells for murdering Decker. Aaron had returned to his meal, but watched as Healer headed back to his bedroom. Now I’ve done it, he muttered, jumping to his feet to follow along. I’m sorry. Are you getting sick?

I forgot my handkerchief, Jason Aurelius said, almost running into the giant in the doorway on the way back. I didn’t hear what you said. Was it important?

I was reminding you of not having them for two years since James Hilton approved eliminating them for security reasons. Now the citizens don’t know how many Joined each Healer has to defend him or her. Aaron headed for the table to continue eating. You’re going to Novice quarters for breakfast?

Yes, but I need a glass of milk now. Herbert warned me of my medication.

Farrell filled her glass again, and handed it to her Joined, placing it on the table while he worked.

I’m starving, Jason Aurelius said, dumping a white pill out of the bottle he was never without. Herbert started snaking down from his hand, ready to drink. Leave some for me, please.

Herbert waved his blue tip about, attempting to patiently wait by the rim of the glass.

I can’t understand why I haven’t gained enough weight to tip the scales, I’ve been eating so much lately. Almost double the calories required for someone my size.

For one thing you’re exercising, like we both suggested. And Herbert burns calories like crazy. Want a piece of bacon to tide you over till you get downstairs? Aaron asked, holding up a thick one for Healer to take. We have plenty. Go ahead.

I think I will, he replied, taking it with his fingers, which he licked clean after eating. Uncle used to scold me for not using utensils. I almost feel like a bad little kid, he stated. He did accept Aaron’s used napkin to complete the task.

If that’s the worst you’ve ever done, Healer, you don’t want to know what I was like as a child, Farrell said. She looked over at Aaron. How about you, First?

I was a perfect angel. Aaron burped loudly, then began to laugh as he continued eating. I’m afraid Kelly was always yelling at me about something. He got at least one misconduct report from Watch each day. Usually more.

You’re right, I don’t want to know. I’ll be back before morning Assembly, Aaron. He pulled up his hood, but left it light.

I’m on town duty with Vance this morning, Healer, Farrell said, to remind him. We thought we’d go shopping. I’ll remember to bring you back some mints.

I’m not senile, yet, he replied, seriously. Just cause I can’t hear all the time, doesn’t mean I’m old. I’m younger than either of you.

Both Enforcers rose from the table while wiping their hands on their cloth napkins.

May none draw your precious blood, Second, Jason Aurelius said, hugging Farrell as he would either of his Joined.

Go in peace and safety, Healer-of-Mine, she replied, holding him, trusting him to care for her battle inflicted injuries. Or any other medical needs.

Aaron laid his hand on their shoulders, warning Farrell not to take chances. And offering the word of prayer that the three of them depended on to start each day. They knew that only God’s intervention while apart, could bring them back together in the evening.

My second home call is at the Murphys. Perhaps we’ll see you there about eleven or so.

She always feeds Enforcers mid-day. Maybe you’ll join us, Healer, Farrell said.

Jason Aurelius was about to say no, when Aaron replied they would eat with the two female Enforcers. He knew his Healer would require food for his duties. Why pack mid-day when Ma Murphy was ready to feed them for services rendered?

Isn’t Fritz on school duty today? Jason Aurelius asked.

He’s taking Peter so Vance and I can have a day together to relax. We were planning to accompany him, then head to town.

Relax, in town? Aaron grumbled. That’s a good way to get killed. You two be careful!

You know what I mean, First. No one in their right mind tangles with Fritz’s Second. I sure wouldn’t want to take her on, and we’re close friends.

Still not as bonded as the three of us, Aaron retorted.

No one can ever be the same as my compatibles. We are united in blood and venom. I treasure the two of you, she replied, smiling at the men. Only marriage …

That ain’t going to happen, Aaron quickly said, rubbing her shoulder while smiling down at her. Actually what I know of married citizens, we’re closer. Divorce isn’t in our vocabulary. Be careful, Blood Sister.

I will, she said, touching his arm. You two do the same. He was right. She dearly loved both of them, and would give her life for either of her Joined. How about a swim before dinner? I’ll meet you men at the pool.

On his ride down to the ground floor on the elevator, Jason Aurelius mulled over their discussion. What would happen to the two of them if he should die? Would they find another Healer to join with who would appreciate them? Surely every joined group considered losing their Healer. He wouldn’t be the first to die young … Herbert, manage my system, please! he asked, frantically opening a mint, leaning against the wall of the car as it stopped. Fortunately the door delayed opening. The soothing blue light enfolded his mind, and slowed his breathing. He was glad for the extra moment to compose himself before exiting.

You require food, Herbert whispered in his thoughts.

I know, he replied, stepping out, hearing the Novices and Boys singing the chant on the way to breakfast.

To distract himself, he ran over the anticipated events of the day. Breakfast with Galen. That was always relaxing. Assembly. Who could predict what might occur. Home calls with Aaron. He was eager to be out in the cool autumn weather; not that he could feel anything in the vehicle. But the first visit was the Lauterbach farm. A safe house where he could relax somewhat. Then there was the Murphy bakery to vaccinate all the elder members of the household and the toddler. Older children were routinely cared for at the schools they attended. They would have mid-day at the bakery with Farrell and Vance. Perhaps while they were in town he could persuade Aaron to check out some of the new shops opening. There would be ample time before his last visit at the Roberts’ house to check the oldest son’s new baby. Morgan and Kinsley could handle Pediatrics without him always watching over their shoulders, as Randolph had been known to do. He wanted to be out with his Joined before being enshrouded in black. Plenty of time to be confined to Protectorate, and his duties in the hospital and clinic. Today he was more or less free.

A Healer novice stood alone in the hallway with his head bowed, just outside the dining room door. The noise of breakfast and morning announcements filtered out into the silent hall. Jason Aurelius slowed his pace to check out the novice. The young man hadn’t learned to darken.

Galen? Jason Aurelius asked, when the youth turned his head to address him. Why are you out here? Never had he had to scold his novice or suggest he sit at the detention table. Not that Galen didn’t have the usual amount of childish faults, but nothing to silence him so early in the day.

I have shamed myself, Guardian. Guardian Master Quentin ordered me to wait here for you.

Jason Aurelius sighed deeply. He really needed to eat. Follow me, he stated quietly entering the open door. Assume your seat. I’ll be right with you.

Quentin was busy conferring with his students, but looked up to address Jason Aurelius. Good-day, Guardian Master.

Duty Master, I do want to handle whatever occurred with Galen, however I must have breakfast first. Can this wait at least ten minutes?

Take your time, Jason Aurelius. We’ll discuss it when you’re better prepared. He didn’t kill anyone.

For that I’m thankful, Quentin, he replied, a hand to his mouth.

Galen was sitting with his hood forward to hide his face. After a silent prayer, Jason Aurelius picked up the platter of scrambled eggs, took some, then passed them over to his novice. You need to eat before class. We’ll talk later.

It was pretty bad, Guardian, Galen said, hesitating to take the plate. When Jason Aurelius insisted, holding it out to him, the novice gave in and received it.

As food continued to be passed down the long table, the two of them filled their plates. At least Jason Aurelius did. He had to keep urging Galen to take more.

That won’t keep an infant alive, he said, attempting to lighten the mood, as he started eating. I had a piece of bacon with Aaron and Farrell this morning. That only served to make me hungrier. Do you have a math test today?

Yes, Guardian. I studied last night again.

Do you feel prepared? Jason Aurelius watched him for a reaction.

Yes, but that isn’t my problem.

Is this something we should talk about in private?

I suppose so.

Do we need to involve Guardian Master Quentin?

If you feel we should. Galen laid his fork down across his plate, and bowed his head. I have shamed you so, Guardian. May I be excused?

When I finish, please. You don’t want me to get sick again, do you?

Please, no, Guardian. Galen covered his face with his hands, ashamed of himself.

Jason Aurelius reached across the table and touched his arm. Give me another minute. Sit quietly. We’ll straighten out whatever you did, I promise. As he withdrew his hand, he called on Herbert for help with his digestive system which was grumbling, getting ready to rebel. Somehow he managed to finish eating.

The room began to empty as the Boys and Novices left to prepare for class. Quentin and his students were busy conferring.

Let’s go to your cell where we can discuss this matter in private, Jason Aurelius said rising from the table, while placing a tablet Raymond had prescribed in his mouth. The soothing mint flavor refreshed his throat.

As they passed the duty desk, Quentin spoke up. I need to see you alone, first, Jason Aurelius.

Go on, Galen. I’ll be there in a moment, Guardian said, patting his shoulder.

Quentin waited until the novice had left before he looked up from his book to study Assembly member. Your novice had a bad start to his day. He and Student Cassidy had an argument. Foul language was used.

Galen?

I’m afraid so. I was witness. I made note in my log book. Assembly has been made aware.

Jason Aurelius sighed, deeply. Has he apologized?

He did. But it didn’t seem sincere.

It’s hard to imagine Galen disrespecting anyone. Especially a member. I guess I have to severely punish him. I’m sorry, Quentin. Student, he said, bowing his head to each of them.

Galen was standing at the window staring outside at the early morning light. When he heard Guardian enter behind him, he folded his hood back on his shoulders and turned around. Jason Aurelius closed the door and seated himself at the table. There was a two foot by two foot flat object covered with a brown cloth on the table surface.

He told you, Guardian?

Quentin said you exchanged words. Tell me what happened, he stated, attempting to maintain control of his voice. Anger wouldn’t give him the truth he sought.

Student Cassidy said my locker didn’t pass inspection. I told him I thought it looked fine when I left.

To go where?

The art room, Guardian. I wanted to get that before you arrived.

What is it?

I’ve been working on a painting for you. Master Jergen has been assisting. Galen made no move to unveil the gift for him. Student threatened me with punishment duty. I guess I got mad and argued with him. I don’t know what was so bad about my locker. No one else has a perfect one all the time. I told him to not expect so much of me. I’m a teenager.

Was he being unfair?

Maybe not.

Then why were there words?

Galen slammed his right fist into his left and mumbled to himself. I get so angry sometimes. Galen started to turn aside, but Jason Aurelius rose from the chair and touched his shoulder.

What’s going on? This isn’t like you.

Galen bowed his head and quietly said, It’s your black sash.

What?

They say I’m treated with favoritism.

Who does?

The other guys.

Your novice peers? But you took your anger out on Student. I heard you used vulgar language with him. You know I have to punish you.

I know, Galen replied, hanging his head.

You will be silenced for forty-eight hours. I’m taking your robe. You will speak to none in friendship. You will sit at the detention table for all meals until the sentence is served. I want you to write a letter of apology and post it on the bulletin board. It will include the word you used.

Oh, no, Guardian! I can’t do that and have the young Boys see it. Please, I beg mercy! Galen said, removing his robe to hand to Guardian.

Was it truly so bad? Jason Aurelius folded it over his arm. He would give it to Watch to hold.

Believe me it was, Guardian. Dad would have washed my mouth out with soap.

You’ve placed me in a most uncomfortable position. However, I will not abandon you. Guardian stood by me in similar situations. You should have told Watch Master if you were having problems being bullied. I also want to know where you learned to swear so offensively.

Enforcer Novices in the gym. They do it all the time.

No more! I’ll see it is stopped. You have my word, Galen. And I will not hear it from you again. Are we clear? he asked, looking down on the young man while holding his shoulder, feeling his body trembling with remorse.

Perfectly, Guardian.

Now show me what you have under the cover. I have Assembly this morning and scheduled home calls.

Galen removed the cloth from his painting then propped it up against the wall. Jason Aurelius stepped back to view it at a distance. He was overcome with emotions, covering his mouth with his right hand. Was he really up to handling the trust Assembly had given him to direct this young man?

I’m speechless, Galen, he whispered.

That bad?

You have to be kidding. This is fantastic! Supreme Guardian has a similar painting in his office. It’s the view from the cupola. Am I correct? Jason Aurelius stepped forward to observe the brush strokes, and the fine workmanship of the wooden frame.

Master Jergen took me up there to see for myself. He said there was an artist in Before-time who loved to sketch and paint the views. I believe she was an art teacher at the local school in town.

Emma Michaels, Jason Aurelius whispered, almost afraid to say Grandmother’s name. It’s magnificent.

Would you consider hanging it in your office to remember me? But not my mouth. David made the frame in wood crafting shop.

I would be honored, Galen. Thank you both. Jason Aurelius hugged him and patted his shoulder. He picked up the robe, then the covered painting. I’ll give this to Watch to hold until your time is up. Good-day, Novice.

Brandon had opened the door to Watch office when he heard Jason Aurelius intended to stop on his way out. I require a moment of your time, Guardian Master. If you would please come in.

What is it, Brandon?

I know you’re tight for time, so I won’t keep you long. Let me show you the encounter. I notified Assembly of our problems lately. It seems the younger novices aren’t taking the threat on our lives seriously. We had a drill yesterday, but their time to respond was slow. Then there is the lack of respect for each other.

With a few brief clicks, Brandon brought the replay back up on one of the screens. Jason Aurelius sat in a chair to observe. Though the room was filled with the voices of novices and guardians talking privately in rooms, there was silence from those on Watch.

Jason Aurelius sat stunned, listening to the argument between Galen and Student Cassidy. As it ended, he handed the robe to Brandon. Call the novices and guardians back to the dining room for me. Hold this picture temporarily if you would. Jason Aurelius removed his Assembly stole from his pocket to put on his shoulders. Seal off Novice quarters and the dining room once they are assembled. Announce that I will speak with them. We will not involve the Boys.

Should I request Quentin and his students remain?

If you would, please.

Jason Aurelius removed his pagecom and notified Aaron he would be back a little late. Then he called Enforcer IG requesting a team from Guardian Master Kelly’s field awareness group, leaving a message to meet him immediately on the ground floor in the male Healer’s building of novice quarters. He watched the screens as the novices and guardians filled the dining room again. Quentin and Students stood at the front of the room, waiting.

Hoods at full blackness, Jason Aurelius and Watch Master Brandon marched down the hallway in perfect time.

Lower the defense shields, now, Jason Aurelius called out to the elders in Watch office. No one leaves without my approval! This is an Assembly order!

A low rumbling could be heard echoing down the hallway as the steel window covers were released and locked in place. All rooms became pitch black until Watch turned on the ceiling lights in the hallway and dining room. Even Guardians quaked in anticipation of Assembly Guardian Master’s arrival, the reason for his apparent anger with the group.

This will stop now! Jason Aurelius whispered to Brandon. If I have to scare them to death, so be it.

Brandon held the door open for him to enter the dining room. Slowly he walked to the head of the long table where the Novices and Guardians stood waiting.

Take your hoods off and face me! he demanded of the youths. Novice quarters is on lock down for the remainder of the day. All classes are postponed till tomorrow. Instead, you will have a full day of survival drills. All robes are to be removed. I’ve asked the Guardians remain briefly so they would be aware of the proceedings.

Quentin and his students walked behind the novices receiving robes to fold over their arms.

The hall door opened - Six Guardian Master Enforcers in full battle attire entered to stand at attention. Jason Aurelius turned to briefly acknowledge them with a nod of his head. Then he turned back to the group of terrified looking novices.

You have been found to be lax in field awareness skills, and proper etiquette to each other, and members. I will have discipline! This is House of Healers. I have the authority to remove any who do not follow the rules as set by Assembly. Do I make myself clear? he barked, sounding more like Aaron than a Healer.

Yes, Assembly Guardian Master, they all replied as if one person spoke, even the guardians.

I turn this gathering over to Guardian Master Lawgiver/Enforcer Kelly and his team. Do as you see fit, Enforcer. Jason Aurelius stepped back from the table to quietly confer with Kelly. Thank you for responding so quickly. There has been bullying and vicious words among these novices. It is behavior not permitted in my House. Do whatever you wish, but whip them into shape! Scare them to death!

You may regret those orders, Kelly replied, with a chuckle. Put that thing in your hand away. I’ve got this problem. Maybe you should leave now. I know you have a sensitive stomach.

Brandon accompanied Jason Aurelius back to Watch office to pick up the painting. Let them squirm, Guardian Master muttered, attempting to calm down and convince Herbert to retract.

Galen has never caused trouble before. I’ve heard the whispers, and admonished a few of them. There’s talk that he could get away with anything and you would cover for him.

So that’s why he cursed Cassidy. Make Kelly aware. He has a way of handling this kind of situation. As Jason Aurelius reached out to pick up the painting, he paused to rub his right shoulder.

Are you all right?

I pulled a muscle moving my desk yesterday. Aaron yelled at me. He slipped the picture under his left arm. I’ll be okay. Let me know how things work out. Remember, Galen is on forty-eight hour silence. Good-day, Brandon.

You forgot good luck.

Jason Aurelius nodded his head. See that Edmund and his Boys have mid-day and dinner with House of Teachers. I don’t want them involved.

While Jason Aurelius was getting his keys out of his robe pocket, he could hear Kelly yelling instructions to the novices. Enforcer was right, he didn’t want to know what was planned for their day of training. Covering his mouth with his right hand, he stepped into the elevator as the door opened. He was glad Kelly would handle the matter for him. The man wasn’t abusive, but his ways were direct.

I must think about something else, he muttered to himself. Jason Aurelius remembered his time with Uncle, the calming influence and gentle manner of Grandfather. Slowly, his stomach settled down.

Aaron looked up from his desk when he entered their office. Are you okay? he asked, when Healer removed his hood.

I hope so. I left Kelly with the Healer Novices to learn field awareness. They’ve been harassing Galen. He warned me to get out. Not a moment too soon.

Or maybe not soon enough by the looks of your face. Go splash some cool water on it. We still have time before Assembly.

Jason Aurelius set the painting on his desk, before going to his bathroom. When he came back, Aaron had it uncovered.

Where did you get this, Healer?

Galen. Question: how did the novices know the color of my desk to stain the frame? He watched Enforcer’s expression. Maybe someone told Galen and David?

Who would that be, Jason? Kid does pretty good. Looks like the one Frederick has in her office, he said, stepping back to admire the picture he had leaned up against the computer. Want me to see about hanging it for you? Over your desk perhaps. Where it was or is now? What do you think, Healer?

You’re trying to change the subject. Jason Aurelius picked it up and held it about where he thought it would look best. Hand me that pencil and we’ll mark it for service personnel. You have enough to do. Thank you for guiding my novice. I really appreciate you watching out for him as you would your own.

I’m here for you, Healer, and for Galen. He is my responsibility while under guardianship care.

We should be going, Healer said, pulling up his hood.

Aaron picked up Healer’s cloak, bag and brief case to carry, since they were leaving directly from Assembly.

Farrell left?

A few minutes ago. I warned her again not to take chances. He glanced over at Healer as he held the hall door open. Feeling better?

I believe so.

What did you have for breakfast?

Enough calories for Jacob. I know I’m going to start gaining weight, and be a fat old man.

Aaron laughed and shook his head. I doubt that fact, Healer. Ask Herbert what he thinks.

He kept yelling at me for a glass of milk. I couldn’t with the novices present.

We should stop on our way out after Assembly. You get cranky when he gets hungry.

CHAPTER 2

A ARON HELD THE DOOR TO ASSEMBLY CONFERENCE ROOM OPEN FOR his Joined, though by rights he was also to be respected as a member of the ruling body. Only once had Jason Aurelius held the door for Aaron. Frederick sat up straight and reprimanded both of them.

She and Raymond were the only ones present in the room when they arrived.

Enforcer, come in, please. Godwin will tell the others to wait outside and give us a few minutes for private conference, she directed Aaron as he stood, ready to hold the door for Healers on Assembly who were gathering. Sit, Jason Aurelius, this directly concerns you.

Folding his hood back, he assumed Third Chair. He wondered if she had heard about the misconduct in novice quarters. I’ve taken care of the problem with my novice, Supreme Guardian. You don’t need to become involved.

Watch informed me, she replied, seeming to brush his concern aside. You were wise to call for Kelly’s group to intervene. We have another matter to discuss. Hood off, she stared at him with a blank expression. I believe you know we spoke of releasing embryos frozen in Before-time, hoping to stabilize the future generations with DNA not compromised by the virus.

I am aware of the practice, Frederick.

We’ve been watching their development for abnormalities. So far they appear clean. One in particular has caught my interest; a young boy of fourteen. His parents were scientists working in research. To preserve their genes, several embryo were frozen in our labs many years ago. All but one was destroyed in the riots. Martin … was murdered attempting to protect the unborn, she said, hesitating to complete her statement. If you would, please, Raymond.

I released this one surviving embryo to a local couple, once I was sure it was still viable.

He’s doing well? What of his original parents?

Dead during the virus years. He was legally given the name of his birth parents, shall we say.

Do I know this child? What is his name? Is he someone I care for in clinic? Are you telling me so I can take over the responsibility?

You already have charge of him. It’s Galen, Raymond said, glancing at Frederick.

Tell him the whole truth, she insisted, watching the two of them for a reaction.

His parents would have been Jason and Allison Anderson.

There was dead silence in the room.

Jason Aurelius looked at each of them, and lastly Aaron.

My brother? he whispered.

Yes, Raymond replied, smiling at him, knowing how he desired a sibling.

Wait. Am I going to have to give him up as a Novice?

No, but you aren’t to tell him until you release him to adult membership, Frederick stated. Do we have your word, Guardian Master?

He nodded his head. I feel like a new parent, he said, smiling. Grandfather saved him?

And gave his own life trying. Martin was devastated by the possible loss of his son and daughter-in-law. He had to protect their off-spring. I know he would have loved you, too, Jason Aurelius, Frederick said, blotting her eyes. Call the others in, Aaron, she instructed, pulling up her hood. We have much to discuss about the latest rebels.

Not a word of this to any but your Joined, Raymond warned, pulling up his own hood.

Does Morgan know? Jason Aurelius asked.

I told her, Frederick replied. I figured she had a right to know as his aunt. We have lost so many dear ones.

Frederick opened the meeting with a quiet time for each of them to reflect on their responsibilities, and consult God for counsel. She figured prayer was private, as were their thoughts, though each of them had a talent to read the intent of another, thanks to the Beam. But it must never be employed for recreation or to intrude. It was a healing tool. Tristam excelled in his gift. Jason Aurelius swore the man could know his thoughts by only watching his expression. Uncanny at times. Pure science, and years of observing people.

We have a brief matter to discuss, then I will turn the meeting over to Guardian Master Levi for one of a more serious nature. The first concerns our Healer novices. Jason Aurelius has handled punishment for rude behavior and inappropriate language, You will note in your minutes how Novice Galen addressed a Student.

Jason Aurelius stared at the word Galen had spoken to insult Student Cassidy. Hearing it from Watch and seeing it written before all of his peers troubled him even more. He hid farther into the folds of his raised and darkened hood.

He didn’t learn it from me, Assembly. I beg mercy.

From whom did he hear it, Guardian Master? Frederick insisted, her right hand flaming red beneath her black sleeve.

The Enforcer novices in the gym, I was told. I have forbid him to ever use it again. I told Galen it will stop, even among Enforcers. Jason Aurelius saw Aaron glance up from reading his notes to bristle.

I will make it official, Frederick replied, typing on her keyboard. Rise and face our gathering, Guardian Master.

Slowly Jason Aurelius pushed his chair back. He walked to the opposite side of the oval table.

Lower your hood! Frederick demanded, looking up to address him. The punishment you gave him was silence for forty-eight hours. What of the painting?

It’s in my office. I beg mercy, Assembly.

For an inanimate object? Frederick asked, shaking her covered head.

For the love he feels for me, Sovereign. It is a symbol of his devotion. Please, do not destroy the hours of labor because of one infraction. He is remorseful.

It will be removed and placed in the vault for a period of one week. If I see an improvement in your novice’s behavior, and only if, will it be returned. Both of you are on probation for the allotted time. Do you understand, Guardian Master?

Yes, I do, Sovereign. Jason Aurelius wanted desperately to raise his hood.

You will excuse yourself from this gathering. Wait in the outer hallway for your Joined. Good-day, Guardian Master, she said, all business, as she disposed of several papers in the shredder.

He raised his hood as he turned for the door, humiliated. Third Chair had been thrown out of Assembly. The hazard of being a guardian. He wondered if Raymond had been dismissed by Frederick when Jason allowed himself to be burned by the sun. He had promised to stand by Galen, and he would at all costs to himself.

Instead, Morgan was ushered into the room by Hector to temporarily fill the vacant third chair in his absence.

Feeling admonished, he headed for a chair in a corner of the hall to sit alone. But before he could gather his robe and seat himself to wait for Aaron, Godwin approached.

I must see you in private, Assembly Guardian Master. Come with me, please.

Godwin guided him to one of the small, waiting rooms, about fifty feet further down the corridor.

If you would, make yourself comfortable, Guardian Master, Godwin instructed, pulling out an armchair at a small round table, indicating Healer be seated. She then took the second chair for herself, while removing her helmet and field mask. Can I get you something to drink? Tea perhaps?

Nothing, Godwin, Jason Aurelius replied, folding back his hood. But he heard Herbert yelling in his mind. A glass of milk for my Beam unit if you would please.

I wanted to talk to you alone. Frederick and Raymond were concerned you might become ill with the matter they had to discuss, she said, while filling a glass from the overhead cabinet.

I was told to leave, he admitted, settling back in the cushioned chair while receiving Herbert’s refreshment.

For your own welfare not the disobedience of your novice. Godwin opened a folder she carried. These are pictures of our latest threat. A group of rebels. Their leader is named Clarence Foster. He is known as Chief Soaring Eagle, Godwin said, holding up a picture for Jason Aurelius to inspect. She then spread several more on the table. The first one was of a fifty plus man, long graying hair, with a red band around his head containing several turkey feathers hanging down his right side. His clothes were leather. It resembled the pictures Aaron had in history books of native Americans. To complete the charade, his face was