Alpha One - Chris Burton [11]
Carla entered a small foyer, which in itself led to a much larger room, with a vaulted ceiling with attractive wooden architraves. This room was definitely more in keeping with a church than a warehouse office. Nigel Winterburn stood at the far end of the room facing Carla as she entered. He was wearing a black Saluc, the traditional dress of the Betanica Sect.
“Welcome” said Winterburn. “Come closer and let me see you.”
The atmosphere was electric. Carla could feel the hairs on the back of neck. Strangely she found that she could not resist and she approached Winterburn with eager anticipation. When she was within a few meters, she stopped. The adrenalin dispersed and she suddenly felt frightened. She turned to look for her sister for support, but found that she was alone. Alone, apart from the Betanic Priest.
“Don’t worry about your sister. She is keen to see you too, but she is preparing for a trip that we are making. I will make sure you can have some time together shortly.”
“I get the impression you knew I was coming.” said Carla boldly.
“Yes I did. You made enquiries about my whereabouts at AUSWAS and your sister always said that you would come.” He spoke in an articulate, but deep and reined tone. His accent was English. Strangely, she also felt comforted and slightly aroused by his presence.
“Why are you wearing the robe of the Betanica Sect?” asked Carla, who was surprised at how brave and direct she was being.” Because, my dear, I am a member of the Betanica Sect, “he replied.
“The Betanica Sect is a Sentinel religion.”
“That is a common misconception and is what Alpha would have you believe. Yes, we are represented widely within the Sentinel race, but we are spread widely across many worlds and many people including as you can see. Earth. Do you understand the basis of our beliefs?”
Is Joely a member of the sect? thought Carla. She was concerned about her sister. Was her sister a traitor? “Yes, I think that they have some religious predilection about the Tri-Star region, and particularly about the two wormholes.”
“You are surprisingly well-informed, but also a little naive. The protection of the Tri-Star region is the basis for which the Sect was formed. We are here to keep the evil from within at bay.”
“So why are you here, in a place where the people are so cynical to such beliefs? “
“Well it’s not the war, I can promise you. We have a presence everywhere.
“Where is your visit to?” Carla continued.
“Oh, I think enough has been said for now. We will talk again when we see you next time.”
“How do you know there will be a next time?” said Carla.
“Oh I believe there will be,” said Winterburn.
With that, the door to the ‘chamber’ opened and Carla’s sister reappeared. Winterburn smiled. “See that Carla is looked after and make sure she is sent on her way in time for her next seminar.” With that he strolled past the two young women and exited the chamber. The two sisters exchanged glances and hugged again. There was no need for explanation, thought Carla. It was really good to see her sister again.
Chapter Five
The Disciplinary Panel
Steve awoke early. It was Thursday morning and he had a restless night. Today was the day of his disciplinary meeting.
Even early in the morning, it was hot. The temperature over the last two weeks was excessive even by current standards for this time of the year, and the antiquated climate control in his flat could only cope intermittently when temperatures exceeded forty degrees. He showered, dressed, and had coffee and a banana for breakfast.
Steve stepped out into the baking September sun just before six a.m. He commenced his morning run, thinking that by the time he completed his circuit he would be exhausted but his mind might be clearer.
Jake awoke at 7.30 a.m. and, having washed and dressed, met Steve at 8.30