Free KC Frantzen - May the K9 Spy 02 - May Finds a Way: Peril in Paris by KC Frantzen Page A

buried here? And what about the dots beside his name?”
    The video stops then it’s deathly quiet.
    “Closing time,” Léonce says. “Now we listen.”



Chapter 19
    F ootsteps.
    They arrive in groups of five, a few minutes apart. I think I spot Pack Leader, Alexis too. Sniff. As I thought, not much scent available.
    When they’re all seated on the cold stone floor, Director strides in from a darkened archway I just noticed.
    I detect others waiting, hidden.
    In a severe voice, Director begins. “We have blocked bridges, hacked systems, disrupted commercial zones, punching panic into the hearts of immoral governments and businesses worldwide. It is nearly time to implement the next phase of our plan.”
    The young humans lap up every word, except Alexis. He appears distant.
    She surveys the group, then commands, “Watch the video.”
    After introductory music, a voice says, “Your News Wire Program at Five update. Authorities have few details on the bomb blast outside the Regnadistan–”
    I whisper, “Rukan talked about that.”
    My companion frowns.
    “–Embassy in Paris last Friday morning. No one has claimed responsibility, and the incident remains under investigation. However News Wire brings it to you first. We have learned there is a person of interest. Authorities request assistance from the public.
    “Our on-scene reporter acquired this brief audio from a young rubbish collector. Listen as he explains what happened.
    “‘I noticed this metal case near the Embassy wall.’”
    Pack Leader’s voice!
    “‘When I looked inside, I was scared. There were wires and a timer–’”
    I mutter, “That’s the same as Washington.” Léonce gives me a look.
    “‘–so I hurried to call the authorities. When I rounded the corner, I heard the explosion.’
    “To review, the blast occurred Friday around 4:30 a.m., setting vehicles ablaze and blowing out windows in the Embassy and several buildings nearby. Computer and telephonecommunications were disrupted, and in a few instances, were severed entirely.
    “The spokesman on foreign affairs said Regnadistan’s intelligence agency continues coordination with Parisian authorities. ‘We are thankful for no injuries. This blast will have no impact on our diplomatic activities in France or elsewhere. We remain watchful for all who employ terror to further their Cause.’
    “As we noted, the blast knocked out video recording devices in the immediate area. Our reporter arrived prior to the camera crew so authorities merely have access to this recording. Today, however, he has been officially designated a person of interest.
    “If you have any information, contact the Central Directorate of Internal Intelligence , which has posted a reward for facts leading to arrest and conviction in the Embassy attack. In other news…” Click.
    Several of those seated pump fists as all eyes turn to the human seated near Alexis. Director says, “Brilliant work, which has been noted by our Chief.”
    The young man’s nose jerks in the air as he takes a quick look to his left and right. I notice some scratches and wounds across his face and he’s favoring one arm. It’s Pack Leader alright. Léonce and I struck one for the good guys.
    Director glares at Alexis. “ Some of you should learn from this noble fighter.”
    Noble? Pack Leader? He’s nothing but a coward and a bully.
    Alexis keeps his eyes down, shoulders slumped.
    All in the room are quiet. During the silence, several start fidgeting. One says, “We are ready to hit again, Director. When do we go?”
    “Soon. We will rupture communications, as you know, the first round in war. The political and economic elite must understand we are everywhere. We can strike at will.
    “Over the past few days, we have acquired cellular phones. These will be decoded, modified systems making them untraceable. Inexpensive portable radios will also be adapted for our purposes. Alexis? Alexis!”
    He glances up, then melts under