StV: The Prophet and the Acolyte, Part Two

"I hear," intoned the Prophet. 

"I pray," Janet responded. "There has been progress since my last report. I located three of the other Deviants. They are students together at a particular school just outside of Eugene, Oregon. Likely their other friends are there as well. And Bernard Creswell has been in touch; he called me directly."

"I see," said the Prophet. "And have they been silenced?"

"You left it to me to choose the best method for that," Janet reminded him. "Creswell assures me that he will remain silent, and see that the students do as well. In return, he demands that we return his money, leave the students alone, and cease eliminating the Damned when they show their Deviant natures. He suggests that we refer them to him instead, and that we warn prospective members in advance that the unworthy will be Damned instead of Blessed."

"Does he?" The Prophet blinked. 

"Your Holiness, this could affect the success of the New World," Janet said carefully. "I know how I would judge, but I did not wish to proceed without your approval."

"Your wisdom does you credit," answered the Prophet. "How would you judge?"

"Destroy him immediately," she said, "before he can make arrangements to take this to the public, as he threatens. Then remove the students with some plausible accident. Finally, add further security to the Purifyings, to ensure that nothing like this happens again."

"Yes," said the Prophet. "I entrust this to your care. I will inform Gabriel that he is to follow your commands in this, and I will provide you with an additional Angel to watch over you until the matter is resolved. Use them wisely."

"Until the New World," Janet said, and released a breath as the Prophet cut the connection.