Part 16 (1/2)

”Yes, the Admiral is another likely candidate, but Lomax seems to have gained the most in the least time.” He pressed one of his fingers to the center of his forehead, the Daphne equivalent to a frown.

”Of course, it's too soon to be sure. We dont know what the disposition will be a day from now.”

Jessine stared at the display. ”No, we don't.”

”If it is Lomax,” said Kitchley, ”then he will have to sh.o.r.e up his claim quickly. That would require that he ally himself with you or your step-daughter.”

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”You mean marry me or Tira,” said Jessine more bluntly. ”A statement of endors.e.m.e.nt wouldn't be enough for him.” A shudder of dis- taste rippled through her. ”He would need something more... binding.”

In the momentary lull of their conversation, the voice of a soldier could be heard: ”Unit 44, to 6 North, unit 44, go to 6 North. Reinforce against Cernian invaders.”

”Unit 44, roger, wilco.”

Kitchley regarded Jessine. ”Yes, marriage, to you or lira.” He hesitated. ”Or he could dispose ofWiley and claim his position. And then there is the Haiken Maru. They have influence enough to make the lad a puppet; Wiley is not prepared to resist such pressures.”

Dispose of? Jessine looked sharply at Kitchley.

Had Cowpers death caused this callousness, or had it always been there?

”I'm afraid you're right,” she said slowly.

”Even if he were popular, he isn't very strong- willed.” She reviewed what she knew of her husband's wild son. He was popular, sometimes even quite charming, but his cronies took joy in antagonizing die alien population. He just hadn't exhibited very good judgment. ”He couldn't hold the Secretariat on his own.” She looked at the display. ”Where is Wiley? Have you found him?”

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Chelsea Quinn Yarbro

”No, we haven't,” admitted Kitchley, his embarra.s.sment obvious. ”We are a.s.suming that is an indication he is still alive, somewhere.”

”Will they keep looking for him?” asked Jessine as they moved,

”Of course,” replied Kitchley. ”He is the heir.”

”Lomax or Sclerida. there isn't much to choose between them for Wdey,” said Jessine slowly.

”I fear not,” said Kitchley. ”I haven't located Admiral Sclerida, either. A man of his great abili- ties - ”

”And ruthlessness,” added Jessine.

”Yes, ruthlessness, certainly,” said Kitchley.

”Sclerida may lack Senatorial status, but he had the good sense to marry a Chaney, which improves his lot and makes his children serious candidates for the High Secretariat.” He tapped his fingers on the armrest. ”Despite the scandal his children might well be his access to the office he seeks. With Chaney prestige - his brother- in-law still supports him - who knows what he might achieve.”

Jessine nodded. ”He's been putting pressure on die High Secretary for some time now, want- ing to arrange a marriage between his son Dov and lira. It would be perfect for his plans. Cow- per and I discussed it...” Her voice trailed off.

Cowper had wanted her perspective since she

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