Chapter 68 · The Shot He Can't Take

"You want the city to hear the truth? Then stop hiding behind my name."

Lucas knocked his father's hand off the broadcast console.

On the tower screen, Commander Alistair Vale's face hardened. "You will not touch that switch."

"Already did."

A red bar flashed across the console.

SECURITY OVERRIDE: VALE COMMAND

Lucas slammed his palm into the panel. "Nora, kill the lockout."

Nora Quinn leaned over the second station, one hand pressed to the cut at her temple. Blood ran between her fingers and dotted the keys.

"Your father buried this tower under three command seals," she said. "I can break two. The third needs your blood authorization."

Lucas held out his hand. "Then use it."

"Lucas—"

"Use it, Nora."

Evelyn stood behind him with the testimony core tucked beneath her jacket. The small metal drive burned against her ribs.

Every guard in the tower had orders to take it.

Every city screen carried her face beneath the word TERRORIST.

And Lucas had just dragged his own father onto the main feed.

Alistair's voice blasted through the speakers. "Warden Vale, stand down. You are relieved of command."

Lucas reached for the broadcast switch. "No."

"You will be charged with treason."