Chapter 15
President Alvada, seated at the head of the table, radiated authority. His sharp eyes scanned the room, missing nothing. To his right, Celestina sat poised, her presence a surprise to many in attendance. She wore a calm expression, her hands clasped neatly in her lap, though her mind raced with the weight of being at her father’s side in a forum like this for the first time.
The governor of Alvere cleared his throat, drawing attention to his stack of documents. “Mr. President,” he began, “as we discuss the matter of trade routes, it’s vital we address the increasing unrest in the northern regions. Their instability could jeopardize—”
A loud cough interrupted him, and all eyes turned to Governor Hestrel, who sat with a smug smile. “Unrest in the north has always been an issue. But I think we should focus on the more immediate concern: border security. With neighboring regions growing restless, we can’t afford to ignore the potential for intrusion.”
Murmurs of agreement rippled through the room, though a few officials exchanged skeptical glances.
President Alvada raised a hand, silencing the discussions. “Both matters are significant, and neither can be ignored. Governor Alvere, I’d like a detailed report on the northern unrest by the end of the week. Governor Hestrel, I’ll need your analysis on current border security measures and recommendations for improvement. Let’s address both issues with the seriousness they demand.”
As the room settled, Governor Hestrel leaned back in his chair, but not before throwing a pointed look at his daughter, Liora, seated two chairs down. She avoided his gaze, clearly distracted.
Celestina felt the tension radiating from Liora even from across the table. Liora’s knuckles were white as she gripped her pen, and her expression was a careful mask that betrayed her inner turmoil. Celestina chose to ignore it, focusing instead on the discussion at hand.
One by one, other officials presented updates on infrastructure, trade, and international relations. Celestina listened carefully, occasionally catching her father’s approving nod as she whispered a suggestion or asked a pointed question.
Toward the end of the meeting, a foreign envoy stood, bowing slightly. “Mr. President, we must also address the rumors of insurgent activities targeting prominent officials. If these rumors hold any truth, it could endanger not only your leadership but also your family.” His gaze flickered briefly to Celestina, making his implication clear.
The room fell silent, the gravity of the statement sinking in.
President Alvada straightened in his chair, his expression unreadable. “The safety of this administration—and my family—has always been a top priority. If there are credible threats, I trust our intelligence agencies are handling them with the utmost diligence.”
The envoy inclined his head. “Of course, Mr. President. But vigilance is key.”
As the meeting adjourned, dignitaries filed out of the room, exchanging polite farewells and firm handshakes. Celestina rose from her seat, her father placing a protective hand on her shoulder.
“You handled yourself well,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with pride.
“Thank you, Father,” she replied, though the unease from the envoy’s warning lingered in her mind.
They exited the building through a side entrance, avoiding the main doors where reporters had gathered. The cool night air greeted them, and the quiet hum of the city provided a momentary reprieve from the intense discussions inside.
“Our car is just ahead,” her father said, nodding toward a sleek black vehicle parked a short distance away. A handful of guards flanked them, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of danger.
“I’m glad the meeting is over,” Celestina admitted as they walked. “I could use a good meal.”
Her father chuckled softly. “You’ve earned it. There’s a restaurant nearby that I think you’ll enjoy. It’s—”
The sharp crack of a gunshot split the air.
“Get down!” one of the guards shouted, lunging toward President Alvada and pulling him behind a nearby car.
Celestina barely had time to react before another shot rang out, this one striking the pavement inches from her feet. A strong hand grabbed her arm, yanking her to the ground.
“Stay down!” the guard barked, his weapon drawn as he scanned the area for the assailant.
Chaos erupted around them. Pedestrians screamed and scattered, diving behind walls and vehicles for cover. Celestina’s heart raced, her mind struggling to process what was happening.
Her father’s voice cut through the noise. “Celestina! Are you hurt?”
“No,” she managed, though her voice trembled. “I’m fine.”
A third shot rang out, this one shattering a car window just above her head. Glass rained down, and she shielded her face with her hands.
“Sniper!” one of the guards yelled into his radio. “North rooftop! We need backup now!”
Another guard pulled Celestina to her feet, keeping her shielded as they moved toward the car. “We have to get you out of here, ma’am.”
“What about my father?” she demanded, panic rising in her chest.
“He’s secure,” the guard assured her, but his tone betrayed his own fear.
Behind her, President Alvada shouted orders to his team, his voice calm despite the danger. “Sweep the rooftops! Secure the area! I want this shooter found—alive!”
As Celestina was ushered into the car, another gunshot echoed, this one striking the rear bumper. The vehicle roared to life, speeding away from the scene with her guards in close pursuit.
From the safety of the car, Celestina looked back through the rear window, her breath shallow. Her father stood surrounded by guards, his commanding presence unshaken as he continued directing the response.
“I should be with him,” she said, her voice breaking.
“You’ll only distract him,” the guard beside her replied firmly. “The president needs to know you’re safe.”
