Free Autonomy: Book 2 in the Invasion Day series by L.C Morgan

order to do it. You are not rebels, but you will help your race survive by providing information and support when called upon by your handlers. This initiative is looking for those strong enough to play both sides effectively, and those who we can trust to handle the burden effectively,” the other man continued. “Are you ready to properly save the human race from its oppressive ruler and his army? Do you consider yourselves worthy of a place in this regime? Would you give us your loyalty in return for a chance to change history alongside the men and women who’ve dared stand up to King Kronus and his race of brutes?”
    Cries of affirmation came from the crowd around them, and Gage was quick to offer his service to the rebel forces with a throaty cry. Deep down, Kyra wanted to storm forward and snap Tuka and the other man’s necks, but outwardly she maintained her cover. She grinned broadly and gave her fake husband a deep kiss rather than call out, and by the time she pulled away, many members of their small crowd were starting to fire questions at the two speakers one-to-one. They wanted to know more, and quite rightly so, and she listened in on as many conversations as possible to gather her intel for the debriefing she and Gage knew was coming the following morning.
    The fake newlyweds then both made the effort to chat with some of the other attendees while they waited for the gathering to disperse, and Kyra began making mental notes of names and home locations of those they spoke with. It was a strange experience chatting to seemingly loyal, normal people, who deep down seemed intent on the ultimate demise of the Thrakorian reign, and Kyra had to keep reminding herself that her betrayal was a lie. Her heart was still mending after her strange few hours with Thrayke and Kronus in such close and intense proximity, but she knew that no matter what, she would always remain loyal to them. It didn’t matter if at times her allegiance faltered; she truly believed that she’d always go back to what she trusted in, or rather whom. The innocent child within was still holding onto the hand of that soldier who’d saved her on Invasion Day, and she was starting to realize she always would.
    Before too long, Tuka and the other man headed back through the crowd giving out small devices while explaining what they were to each of their new spies. She and Gage were one of the last to be given theirs, and Tuka took his time explaining how to use the small device, which Kyra recognized immediately as a primitive cellphone handset with which they could contact the rebels.
    “Speed-dial one, and a voicemail system will answer. You simply need to state your name for recognition purposes, and you’ll be called back within a few minutes. Only call when you have solid information you can give us, or have something to offer. We need to know you’re committed to working for our cause,” he told them, and then put his hand on Kyra’s shoulder again. Tuka eyed her up and down, and leaned in close. “You seem a little more yourself, are you feeling better?” he asked, and she had to stifle her shudder.
    “Yes, thank you. I guess I was a little freaked out after our arrest last night, but now I’m already feeling stronger and more determined to right the wrongs done to our race. Your speeches were very emotive, and I know without a doubt that I want to help take them down, in whatever way I can,” she answered, and her belly ached with the lie.
    “That’s exactly the point of these gatherings,” Tuka told her with a smile. “We need people like you if we’re to succeed. In fact, I’d like to offer the pair of you an extended invitation for this evening, if you’re up to it? We’re off into the heart of the city to meet with some friends and celebrate tonight’s success. Would you both care to join us?” Kyra looked up at Gage for his answer, but was sure they had no other option other than to say yes. Tanner was waiting for