Free Bishop's Song by Joe Nobody Page A

skills to the Alliance and can continue to contribute for the betterment of our society. I believe there is no stronger proof of that statement than the fact that one of our members wishes to relocate his family here.”
    Terri, sitting in the middle of the elected officials, acknowledged the request. “Deke, on behalf of the council and me, I want to relay our sincerest appreciation for all you and your men have done for the Alliance. I have just a couple of questions regarding your proposal.”
    “Yes, ma’am,” the contractor replied with a smooth tone , flashing his broadest smile.
    “Smart man,” Bishop whispered back to Nick. “ New mothers love being charmed.”
    Terri adjusted Hunter’s papoose-like carrier, and then focused her gaze on Grim. “My understanding is that you lost contact with your wife and child a few weeks back, is that correct?”
    “Yes, ma’am,” Grim replied, looking uncomfortable in the restrictive suit and tie, as well as being the center of attention.
    “And how were they doing before this period of silence?”
    “As best as could be expected. They weren’t starving, but the pantry was bare most of the time. My land is out in the country, so security wasn’t a primary concern.”
    “Thank you, sir. Is there anything else you would like to add?”
    Bishop leaned close to Nick’s ear, “If he gets down on one knee and starts singing to Terri, I’m going to get up and kick his ass.”
    Grim took a step forward, briefly making eye contact with every single member of the council before returning back to Terri. “I miss my family. I worry night and day about my daughter. She’s only 14 and would have been a freshman this year in high school. Surely you, as a new parent, can relate to what I’m feeling,” the man stated with all sincerity. He then swept his hand to indicate all of the governing body, “All of you must be able to relate. Miss Brown, I understand you lost a son to this world gone insane. I’m told most of you have children. I beg you to put yourself in my position, to walk a mile in my shoes. How would you feel? Wouldn’t each and every one of you move heaven and earth to reunite with your family? I am a capable man, benefactor of some of the world’s finest training. I wouldn’t ask anyone else to risk his wellbeing on my behalf. I only request a few small assets, and I’ll do the work myself.”
    “His daughter is only a year younger than Kevin,” Nick observed , his tone suddenly becoming serious. “I know I’d climb the gates of hell to get my boy back.”
    After a few hushed exchanges among the council members, Diana finally spoke. “Grim, we will inform you of our decision by tomorrow noon. Thank you all so much for such professional conduct, and thank you for your service to our community. This meeting is adjourned.”
    Hunter had been fussing, only his mother able to provide comfort. By the time the meeting had finished, he had fallen asleep in his carrier. It was getting to be a habit.
    Bishop gently pulled the apparatus off Terri’s shoulders, careful not to disturb the sleeping child. He wanted to give his wife a break.
    She in turn helped Bishop become the load bearer, smiling at her husband’s efforts. While the two parents adjusted the sling-like harness, Terri spoke in a low voice. “So, what do you think? Should the council approve the request?”
    “I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, the community’s morale would get a boost if they pulled off the rescue. Some people would bitch a little about the use of resources, but 90% would understand , and it might give them hope.”
    Terri pondered her husband’s view for a moment before responding. “We need those guys, Bishop. According to Nick, they are filling a badly needed role in the training and preparation of our defense forces. If these negotiations fail, we’re going to rely on their skills and bravery.”
    “I agree.”
    “But on the other hand, we can’t go