Page 410 of Black Reign

“You do understand you're asking for unrestricted access to some of the most sensitive architecture in existence.”

“Yes.”

“No.”

I blink.

“Fine.”

I pick up my tea.

Sit again.

He turns back toward the console.

Xavier looks at me.

I smile.

Five minutes later, I begin speaking French.

Quietly.

Not quiet enough.

“Deux hommes brillants construisent un château numérique et passent trois heures à chercher dans les douves pendant que l'ennemi boit leur vin dans la cuisine.”

Xavier's shoulders move.

Senior turns slowly.

“What did she say?”

“Nothing.”

“Xavier.”

“She said we are brilliant.”

I smile.

Senior looks at me.

“I speak French.”

“Then why ask?”

His jaw tightens.

I sip.

Xavier mutters, “You also said we're searching the moat while the enemy drinks our wine in the kitchen.”

“Accurate.”

Senior looks back at the screens.

Two minutes.