Page 10 (1/2)

"Yes, Sir," Valek said and headed for the door I followed We wound our way through the tangle of desks When Valek stopped to consult with another adviser, I glanced around A handful of the Commander’s advisers omen, and I noticed two female Captains and one Colonel Their new roles were one of the benefits of the takeover The Coence, not on gender

While the monarchy preferred to see woave them the freedom to choose what they wanted to do Some women preferred their former occupations, while others jueneration had been quick to take advantage of the new opportunities

When we finally reached Valek’s office, Margg was dusting around Valek’s piles of papers on the table It looked tothe papers than straightening the did for Valek besides cleaning

Margg turned a pleasant face to Valek, but as soon as he walked away she glared fiercely at ainst ed to control her outraged expression before Valek glanced up at us from his desk

"Yelena, you look exhausted Youat you Go rest Co"

I didn’t really feel tired, but rest sounded like an excellent idea As I h ed my feet toward my roo that I buuards

"Lookie, Wren, I found our rat!" one guard exclaireen diauard’s uniform

"Good for you," Wren said "Let’s show your catch to General Brazell"

"The General isn’t fond of live rats Especially this one"

The guard shook me hard Pain coursed up my arm to my shoulder and neck In a panic, I searched the hallway for help It was deserted

"That’s right, he prefers theood rat would do I bit down on the guard’s hand until I tasted blood Yelping and cursing in surprise, his grip lessened I jerked rasp and ran

Chapter Five