Page 6 of Guardian

“I didn’t know I was known as callous.”

“You’re known for many things, Manus,” Barclay admitted, “but I have neither the time nor the inclination to list them all for you. I’m sure you’re aware of your own faults. Just be glad that we need every guardian who’s willing to perform the duties of a warrior, and are therefore willing to overlook your many infractions. For now.”

The reprimand shut Manus up. For now.

Logan had to hand it to Barclay: he knew how to handle his subordinates.

“Well, then,” Barclay said, “let’s go over the details.”

Logan nodded. He knew the drill, but protecting a psychic would be different. Because of her visions, she couldn’t be treated like a normal charge. She had to be let in on secrets that could never be revealed to others. “How much are we authorized to tell her about our species?”

“Tell her?” Barclay stared at him as if bitten by a hornet.

“Yes, so we can get her cooperation and protect her effectively,” Logan elaborated.

“Protect her?” Barclay shook his head. “She’s a security risk to us, one that calls for one action, and one action only. You’re not charged to protect her. The council voted to eliminate the threat.”

The last words echoed in Logan’s head.

Eliminate the threat. He knew what it meant.

Kill her.