Three concrete-and-steel dwellings set in a wide ‘H’ formation, occupy the southern tip of the island. The building on the right is a training center, complete with classrooms, the latest virtual-reality combat simulators, a weight room, basketball court, and a Faraday chamber, impervious to electromagnetic waves. The building on the left is a three-storey residence, its luxury suites occupied by the bodyguards, Salt and Pepper, and the private staff that serves the occupants of the central facility.

The six-bedroom, eight-bathroom beachfront home at the center of the ‘H’ belongs to Dominique Gabriel and her two sons. The house has two wings, separated by an enormous kitchen, dining room, living room, virtual-reality chamber, and den.

Dominique waits patiently while the ABC 20/20 film crew sets up in her living room, under the watchful eyes of her bodyguards. Today marks the first appearance her family has ever made before the cameras. With the presidential election only a week away, and Ennis Chaney trailing Peter Mabus in the polls, Dominique feels it important to address the issue that has been swaying public opinion over the last thirty-six months.

Barbara Walters makes her way carefully across the living room carpet, now covered in a myriad of electrical wires. The renowned reporter has come out of retirement just for this interview.

‘Hello, Dominique, I’m so glad to finally meet you.’

‘Me too. I really appreciate your network coming on such short notice. Mabus’s lies have gotten way out of hand.’

‘Our viewers will want to hear all about it. When do I get to meet the twins?’

‘They have a karate lesson in twenty minutes. I thought we’d do it then.’

‘Terrific, wait … did you say a karate lesson? The boys are only three. Isn’t that a bit young?’

Dominique only smiles.

Dominique registers the heat of the lights on her face as she sits opposite the ABC host on the beige L-shaped sofa.

‘Tell us why, Dominique, after all these years of living in seclusion, you felt it important to share your family and home with our viewers.’