“You couldn’t prove a thing,” the governor snapped, paling. “Unless … are you saying you kept copies of those pictures?”
“I could bluff and say yes,” Phule said, “but the truth is, I didn’t. Like I say, Governor, I had no intention of using that information, which is why I, told my men to put them back. Still, a politician’s reputation is a delicate thing, isn’t it? The faintest shadow of scandal can ruin it, whether it’s ever actually proved or not. The question as I see it, is whether or not prosecuting my men is worth jeopardizing your political career.”
Wingas glared at Phule for several moments, then snatched up his phone and angrily punched in a number.
“Chief Goetz, please. Governor Wingas calling.
Hello, Chief? This is the governor. I … She’s fine, thank you … Look, Chief, I’ve decided to drop the charges against those two Legionnaires you’re holding … That’s right. Let them go … Never mind why! Just do it!”
He slammed the phone down with a bang and stared out the window, waiting for his temper to cool before turning to the commander once more.
“All right, Captain Jester. That’s settled. Now, if there’s nothing else, I’ll ask you to excuse me. I believe I have some pictures to burn.”
To his surprise, the Legionnaire made no motion to rise.
“As a matter of fact, while I’m here, there is another matter I’d like to discuss with you, Governor.”
“There is?”
“That’s right. The honor guard job I mentioned earlier?”
“Oh yes. The one you weren’t going to use the pictures as leverage to get.”