Page 77 of The Pacifist
I was scratching Holger’s ear when my wristband chimed the melody of Jonah’s incoming call.
This time, I didn’t even consider ignoring him. My friend had been in battle and he needed me to be there for him.
CHAPTER 16
Licking Wounds
Jonah
“Jonah.” The sweet sound of Mila’s voice was like a soothing blanket and I sighed with relief.
“It’s over. I gave my speech.”
“Yes, we saw it. You did good.”
I was sitting by my desk in my apartment looking out the window where a group of birds sat in a nearby tree. “In a way, I wish the Council met in a physical building instead of virtual reality. It feels empty to sit here alone.”
“Did they tell you what happens next?”
“The discussion will resume in two days. Having a break gives everyone a chance to reflect on what was said today. I’m expecting a second round of questions on Friday, and after that they’ll vote on whether or not I can stay.”
“What’s your feeling?”
I placed my elbows on the table in front of me and let my hands carry my heavy head. “They want me out.”
“But you could run for election again next time, couldn’t you?”
“Yeah, but what would be the point? I’m a criminal in their eyes.”
Mila was quiet for a few seconds. “My dad asked me to tell you that you can always come and live here.”
“Thank you.” I gave Mila a small smile. “How is he?”
“Good. He’s cracking jokes and flirting with my mom.”
“And how is everything healing?”
“Surprisingly well. He’s already moving around.”
“And Khan and Pearl?”
“They worry about you.”
I gave another long sigh. “I feel like I’m disappointing them. Pearl helped with my speech.”
“No one up here is blaming you for what happened. You’re right, the laws are too rigid.” The hologram of Mila that flowed in front of me showed her large expressive blue eyes. “I know this may sound funny, but in some ways, it reminds me of when I first moved to the Northlands as a child. Our teachers Kya and Archer had such different ideas about how we children should be raised. They always argued. She wanted to protect us from all harm while he wanted to expose us to danger so we could learn how to assess risk.”
“But at least they were having a fair debate. I’m one Archer against a hundred Kyas.”
Mila frowned. “Yeah, it doesn’t look good.” We were quiet for a few seconds and then she added. “I liked what you said about the romantics. That people used to call us softhearted and visionary.”
“Thank you.”
“And yet, Jonah, I don’t mean to criticize, but why would you bring a forbidden book and admit to breaking another rule?”
“What do you mean? As a member of the Council, I’m allowed to read it.”
“Yes, but you’re not allowed to bring it outside the archive, are you?”
