Free Lost Eden (The Soulkeepers) by G.P. Ching Page B

lying there staring up at the sky, it occurred to me out of the blue that no one has ever died from this bird flu. Doctors say it’s fatal, and they are prescribing Elysium to anyone who will take it. The stuff’s like gold, too. Hundreds of dollars for a month’s supply. But I haven’t heard of any actual deaths. Hell, they’ve had the cure from the very beginning. I’m telling you, it’s Harrington. They developed this virus, then cured it for the sake of profit, and they’re greasing all of these doctors’ pockets to get everyone hooked on it. How is it that Harrington was so far ahead of the curve on this? When did they do the R&D? I’ll tell you when, before anyone knew about the virus. A bit too convenient, don’t you think? Well, I’ll tell you one thing, if I catch this from Katrina, I’m not taking Elysium. No way.”
    At this, Carolyn Laudner stood up with a huff and headed toward the bathroom. John gaped at her back. The other attendees slowly returned to their casseroles.
    “I believe you, Mr. Laudner,” Malini said. “I don’t think Harrington Pharmaceuticals can be trusted. When this is all over, Katrina will thank you for taking care of her.”
    “I appreciate that, Ms. Gupta. You are as smart as Jacob says you are.”
    Malini squeezed Jacob’s hand. He smiled. “I’m going to go check on Mom.” He led Malini through the side door where Lillian waited.
    “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Lillian asked.
    Malini nodded. “All this time we’ve been waiting for Watchers to march up the street. The first temptation has been here for weeks. We’re not just dealing with infected water; they’re using Harrington to infect people with a virus and addict them to their cure. ”
    “How do you think John knew?” Lillian asked. “He’s a smart guy, but this would be a leap for anyone.”
    “Don’t know,” Malini said.
    “When he fell off the ladder today, he said an Angel caught him, in the form of a red bird,” Jacob said.
    “Hmm,” Malini pondered, “maybe God has sent His first gift after all.”
    The Westcotts exited the reception area then, parting the group. When they came back together, Jacob whispered, “So how do we stop Harrington?”
    “I’m not sure,” Malini said. “But I think it’s time we paid another visit to Harrington Enterprises.”

Chapter 10
    The Mission
     
    M alini suspected her idea would be controversial, but the vehemence in the room surprised even her. While she didn’t think the council would come to blows, the tension was palpable. Each of them had a personal interest in this, and none of them knew what to expect.
    “It’s too dangerous,” Grace said.
    Gideon stood, knocking his chair back. “Too dangerous? It’s not aggressive enough! We’ve waited too long. It’s time we engaged in the challenge.” He paced the conference room.
    “Gideon’s right,” Lillian said. “We’ve suspected Harrington for long enough. It’s time to find out exactly what we are dealing with.”
    “The twins are the natural choice,” Malini said. “They can pose as insiders and find out how much control the Watchers have over Harrington. It’s possible we only need to take out one or two influenced leaders to stop the production of Elysium.”
    Master Lee stroked the short stubble of his chin. “Grace, it is understandable that you would fear sending your daughters, but they are more than ready. I’ve never trained stronger warriors, mentally or physically.”
    “Hey!” Lillian said.
    “Except you, Lillian, of course.” Lee coughed behind his hand.
    Lillian shook her head. “Actually, after seeing them fight, you are probably correct. They are stronger than I am. And they’re ready for a mission.”
    Grace threaded her fingers. “So, I’m in the minority.”
    Malini shook her head. “No one blames you, Grace. Bonnie and Samantha are your daughters and the only family you have.”
    Grace nodded her head, a tear breaking free from the