The youth leaned back in his chair, shaking his head.
“I still can’t believe it,” he said. “Maxine. She’s been like a mother to me.”
“Believe it,” Phule said grimly. “Your `mother’ has tied an anchor around your neck and is about to push you off the end of the pier. I suggest you start learning how to swim.”
“But how?” Gunther said, almost as a plea. “If you’re right, and she’s sabotaged the tables, there’s no way I can make enough to pay off the loan.”
“Don’t worry about the tables,” the commander said. “We happen to have an honest set of dealers standing by … and a new casino manager. It’ll cost, but we can probably clean house in time to save the casino. I think you’ll agree that the time to strike is just before your grand opening. That way, we minimize the chance of Maxine’s switching to an alternate plan.”
“You mean we can beat her? You’ve solved the problem?”
“Not so fast,” Phule said, holding up a hand. “We have other worries besides the tables. When was the last time you had your computer programs checked and audited?”
“The computer?” Rafael frowned. “It was checked just before you arrived. Why?”
“We’ve gotten word that part of Maxine’s plan is to fiddle with your computer,” the Legionnaire said. “Who cleared the computer?”
“There’s an outfit here on Lorelei that specifically checks the casino computers,” Gunther said. “They’re completely reliable and bonded. In fact, Huey said-“
“Huey?” Phule interrupted.
“That’s right!” the youth gasped. “Huey was the one who recommended them. If he’s working against us …”