"L. E. Modesitt - The Ecolitan Institute 01 - Ecologic Envoy" - читать интересную книгу автора (Modesitt L E)

stand, where he dialed for public transportation.



...IV...



The Commodore stood more stiffly than usual, waiting to report to the Admiral and the other members of the
Ministry's strategy board.

"I understand we've run into some difficulties on Hernando, Commodore."

"Yes, Admiral. A major stumbling block, though you will recall that my last report to the board indicated the lack of
time facing us."

"I recall that. However, would you please provide a fuller explanation for the record." The tone of the request sent
shivers down the back of the senior Commanders in the briefing section. Several others shifted their weight quietly.

The Commodore turned to face neither the audience nor the Admiral and pointed at the lit screen, which displayed a
chart.

"As you can see, the Conservative Democrats, with the help of the seven seats held by the Socialist Republicans,
control the Upper Chamber, and thus, the executive branch of Hernando's government. The Popular Front, with some
outside technical support, had identified the most vulnerable Conservative Democrats and targeted them. We also
targeted those strong opinion leaders opposed to a greater Imperial presence along the Limber line." The chart shifted.

"This indicates the probable election outcome, including deaths and retirements, which we had predicted last
month."

"That doesn't look like a problem," commented a junior Admiral to the Commodore's right.

"It wasn't...until some mutant form of A-damp virus wiped out the entire Popular Front planning group and the ten
leading candidates--all on the same night ten days ago."

"ACCORD?"

"The Institute. No way to prove it, but the signs all point that way."

"Such as?"

"First, both security guards were taken out by hand. One had a broken neck and the other a crushed windpipe."
The Commodore cleared his throat before continuing. "Second, it was done quietly. No guns, blaster bolts, slug
throwers. And virtually no traces left."

The Admiral studied the faces around the conference table. Several expressed open doubt.

"Why do you think those are enough to point at Accord and at the Ecolitan Institute, Commodore?"

"Well...we don't deal with biological weapons, especially tailored ones. Imperial intelligence, as well as the