The Last Revolution Read Online Free PDF

The others didn’t even flinch; they had no idea what was going on.
    The sand whipped up around them and Alden was forced to drop his hand slightly in order to shield his eyes from the debris. A large, sleek aircraft materialized on the runway just as the wheels made contact with the ground. The light refraction system dissipated, allowing the aircraft to become fully visible. The crisp smell of helium-3 jet fuel washed over him before dispersing amidst the swirling sand. The other soldiers struggled to keep their hats from flying off while still remaining somewhat poised.
    The aircraft slowed to a roll, and then came to a stop before them. Steps opened from the back of the craft and descended to the pavement. The hair stood up on the back of his neck as he stared into the darkness of the jet waiting for something to happen. The Polemarch was second only to the Archon in power within the Council. The importance of his presence couldn’t be overstated. If this meeting required his personal attention it meant something big was coming.
    Several Council soldiers marched out of the jet and took up positions on either side of the stairs. A large man, who seemed to tower over everyone, emerged. He was dressed in the Council’s white military robes, with black and gold accents along the edges. A ceremonial cape hung from his shoulders. His face partially obscured by a blue and gold mask, the edges barely hid the long dead skin underneath.
    Alden presented a crisp salute. “Polemarch Vasentus. It’s a pleasure to see you again.”
    “The same to you.” Vasentus walked up to Alden. I’d like to introduce you to Lao Ze'Nobuo. He’s one of the brightest minds inside the Council and I’ve asked him to join me on this trip.”
    Alden shook his hand. “It’s a pleasure.”
    Lao stared him straight in the eyes and shook his hand with a firm grip. He was definitely military and would know how to handle himself under pressure. His view was penetrating and he bowed ever so slightly in recognition.
    Vasentus turned to Gabriel who had been quietly standing behind them. “Please escort the rest of my delegation in the other car.”
    Alden picked up Gabriel’s subtle expression as he saluted in acknowledgement and then walked back to the other utility vehicles. Gabriel had always looked up to the Polemarch and would certainly take this slight as an insult. Somehow, he knew he’d be blamed for it, just as he had everything else. They’d been brothers once, but that had been a long time ago.
    Alden opened the rear door for the Polemarch, and helped him in, followed by Lao. They traveled down the long dirt road back to campus. The jungle encroached on both sides; branches hung low over the road, creating a tunnel through the wilderness.
    “We haven’t had the opportunity to speak in a long time,” Vasentus said as their convoy disappeared into the jungle.
    “No, sir. Not since the Siberian mission.”
    Vasentus nodded and stroked his chin. “Terrible how that unfolded, but you handled yourself well and have the gratitude of us all.”
    Alden stared out at the jungle; bursts of light and debris played out before him, trees disintegrating under the heavy barrage of weapon fire, bright red blood splattered across the snow. The praise and commendations that had followed were little comfort.
    Shaking his head and returning to the present he nodded. “Yes, sir.” Not a single day passed that he didn’t think about it. At first it was because he couldn’t help it. The comments whispered behind his back kept him from forgetting during the day, and the terrors that plagued his dreams kept him from forgetting at night.
    Vasentus pulled his hood down, revealing the dark blue mask that covered half his face. Gold filigree wrapped around the edges, carved into intricate and symbolic designs. He stared directly at Alden. “Has the general told you why I’m here?”
    Alden shook his head. “No, sir. I just found out about it an hour