Free Kings and Crowns: A Dystopian Thriller (Age of End Book 2) by Chris Yee

us.”
    “He scares me,” Ella said from backstage. “And we should be scared of him. He’s killed countless numbers of innocent people without even batting an eye.”
    Rupert looked at her. “But that’s not what the people need to hear right now. What they need is inspiration. Positive encouragement. They must believe that Vince and Saul can lead them to victory. That’s the only way to get on Greene’s good side.”
    “I know it’s all an act,” she said, “but he’s so convincing.”
    “That’s a good thing. That means he’s doing his job.”
    Up next was a much smaller man. “Mr. Vigo sure is quiet up there. Does he have any words for us?”
    Saul looked back. “Vince?”
    Vince stepped forward. “I know I have not said much. I am a quiet person. Saul has done a wonderful job of expressing our enthusiasm for this partnership. We are excited for what’s to come. We hope you are too.” He stepped back to let Saul take over.
    “There have never been truer words. Mr. Greene has shown us great hospitality. We look forward to working with him.”
    Greene stepped in front of him. “Well said. I am sorry to cut this short, but that will have to be the last question. I must speak with these two in private. There are many things to plan for the future. We hope you are as excited as we are.”
    The crowd stood up and clapped as Vince and Saul followed Greene offstage.
    “You did a wonderful job up there,” Ella said.
    Greene patted them on the back. “They certainly did. The audience loves you.”
    “Why did you cut it short?”
    “I received some news while we were up on stage. It is important that you know. Come with me. We’ll go somewhere more private.”
    As they left the auditorium, the rumble of the crowd grew distant. Greene popped his head into an empty room and then waved for the others to come in. The room was nearly identical to the briefing room they were in before.
    Alan sat down at the table and stretched out his legs. “What’s so important?”
    Greene paced around at the head of the table. “You may all want to sit for this.” They all took a seat, leaning forward to hear the news. “We have the results from your scans. They came in while we were up on stage. All of you are completely healthy…except for Saul.”
    Saul looked up. “Why? What’s wrong with me?”
    “It is my understanding that you had an encounter with Barnabus Carbul. He shot you.”
    “Yeah, that’s right.” He rubbed the scar with his fingers. “But it’s all healed up now. I’m fine.”
    “The wound has healed, but the bullet is still in there. Have you been feeling any pain?”
    “I have, but I thought it was just part of the healing process.”
    Greene shook his head. “It isn’t. That bullet is slowly killing you. If we don’t get it out soon, you will die.” They all went silent when they heard that last word. “I know that sounds scary, but you’re in good hands. Our medical sector is the best in the City. I will personally make sure you get the best treatment. I have already scheduled an appointment with our most successful surgeon. He will see you in an hour” He walked to the door. “I have to tend to some business, but I will return when he’s ready for you. Believe me when I say that I will do everything in my power to keep you alive. If you need anything at all while I’m gone, Charlotte can help you.” He backed out of the door and left.
    Saul slouched in his chair, staring down at the ground. The others gathered around him. “I can’t die,” he said. “What was the point in surviving the gunshot if I’m just going to die anyway?”
    “You don’t have to worry,” Charlotte said. “There’s no way he’s going to let you die, especially after that conference. The people love you. You’re supposed to be our success story. If you die, that all falls apart. Greene would never let that happen. I’m positive he’s making your treatment his top priority.”
    “Then where