“At eight o’clock this evening, the city of Shalev was put under strict curfew,” Van Dam said, speaking softly. “We have all been wondering what is happening and why. At this very moment, Mr. Charles Cowles, president of KSHV-TV, is in a meeting at Central Control with other media representatives and Curtis Major Denison, commander-in-chief of the Guardians. At this time we can only speculate what is being announced in that meeting, but we feel certain it bodes evil for the citizens of the AFC.”

“I want him stopped,” the Major commanded Travis. “Tell that team to hurry.”

“Listen!” Clayne exclaimed, bringing every eye back to the screen and the face of Mark Van Dam.

“—felt that you, the citizens of Shalev, should fully understand what is going on, we have arranged an exclusive interview with the man who began this whole movement for freedom and who now leads the rebellion against the Guardian forces.” His face twisted, and Nicole could see his lower lip trembling slightly. “Ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to introduce Mr. Eric Lloyd.”

The camera moved back slowly to reveal Eric sitting next to Van Dam. He was dressed in a light blue sports shirt, and his expression was as serious as the anchorman’s. He reached out and gripped Van Dam’s arm, giving him an encouraging nod.

Nicole felt her heart drop. Guardians were speeding to the studio and would be there momentarily.

“Good evening,” Eric said, looking as though he realized he was staring directly into the Major’s eyes. “I bring you greetings from the free people of the AFC.”

“Nicole!”

“Yes, sir.” She jumped, startled by the Major’s sharp call.

“Get on the phone to Central Monitoring. I want a location trace put on Mark Van Dam as quickly as possible.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Major.” It was the president of KSHV-TV. “This isn’t live. It’s a videotape.” Nicole looked down quickly, afraid the relief sweeping through her would be evident for anyone to see.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. Look at the window behind them. It’s still light outside, probably a little before dusk. I’d say it was shot about two hours ago. They probably started the videotape and then fled.”

“Do it anyway, Nicole. Van Dam’s in on this, and I want him.”

“Yes, sir.” She strode to the phone and dialed quickly. A minute later, as she hung up, she forced a frown. “Mark Van Dam’s been cut loose,” she said. “He and Shirley were cut together near Alliance Square a few minutes ago. They’ve both disappeared. The Monitoring Room was trying to call us, but the line’s been busy.”

The Major swore again and slammed his fist down against the table.

“So he’s done it again,” Travis raged, his fists clenched as he stared at the screen.