The Trial

Chapter 21 - Edited

The next day I see an order go out to selected members of the state to change all camps to labor camps for the survivors. These orders don't hide the intent of the limited rations; those who escaped the massacre are going to be starved to death. This has nothing to do with anti-revolutionaries, and everything to do with a starving populace in need of food.

Those within the state have never known the hunger and misery of those outside of the state. They serve at our whims, and this is their reward for good citizenship. The state's idea of love is a bitterness that leaves a bad taste in my mouth. My only wish's to see the state suffer as much as the citizenry.

My sanity's kept in check through the knowledge of becoming Keeper, and he can't last much longer. The numbers for this region are sickening. I can't even begin to fathom just how many have died on a global scale. They'll never admit they were wrong, since the state is never wrong.

I'm stuck in his warehouse, and no longer concern myself with the dust covered boxes. I'm much too focused on the future to think about the past, but my time's coming. His secret police will be my secret police and I'll use them to bring an end to those responsible. My mask will remain in place as long as it takes to become the Keeper; then I'll be free.

I really believed it would be that easy. I'd become Keeper and lead my army of secret police and anti-revolutionaries right into the offices of the other two. It's not like anyone ever suggested anything different.

It's ridiculous that a dying old man who lost his mind long ago should be in charge of anything. There has to be something I can do to save at least some from the misery of the camps. I hate waiting for him to die and wish he'd just get on with it.

I need to clear my head, and I step away from the monitor without telling my driver anything. He responds as he must and follows behind. Despite his presence, I feel alone and isolated in this warehouse of dust covered secrets. All I need to do is keep my mask on, and all his secrets will be mine.

My driver rushes ahead and opens the door, which causes a chill to fill the air. I hesitate going any further due the accusing rays, but must get out of this warehouse. If I spend any more time staring at the screen, I'm going to end up every bit as mad as he is.

Rabbi Solomon blocks my path and I can go no further. I hate his timing as he stares into my eyes without a word spoken. His silence irritates me, and want to scream out for no other reason than he's in my way.

His voice calls out from some hidden depth to reveal just a hint of warmth beneath his cold demeanor. "Good. I don't have to go looking for you. We're going for a ride." His eyes move to my driver's as he continues with a frigid tone. "We're taking his car, and you're driving."

Relax and don't do anything stupid. He's here to help, and you must be patient a little longer. Just focus on your task and do what you need to do. Don't give him any reasons.