Snippet #2811099

Roland took the notebook from Thomas, looking at the note he pointed out before flipping through the other pages. He appreciated that he had picked up handwriting as a skill, as it served a legitimate purpose in being undetectable by the network of information in the Empire. He spoke in a low voice.

“You really should have come to me earlier about this, Thomas. If he’s gone to Langara they will not hesitate to kill him. Even worse, if the system picks up on his thoughts they will send him to re-education.” Roland maintained eye contact with Thomas, leaning down to his height. He spoke quietly, and his voice started to shake ever so lightly. His bloodshot eyes welled up and held back tears of terror. “Do you know what happens in re-education, Tom? They strip the soul away. They wring dry any individuality, any freedom, any semblance of the person you were so that they can turn you into a weapon against the people you loved.” Roland took a moment, and continued, “And they get his memories. You won’t be able to use your name in public any more. And places you used to spend time with Joseph, you cannot go to. If you told him anything, anything about our whereabouts then we have to move base. If you told him anyone's name, then they will have to change it. Do you understand how critical this is, Thomas? I will not allow the impulsive behaviour of your brother to undo years of hard work and endanger the lives of all of us.”

Roland took a breath. He would give time for Thomas to speak, if Roland didn’t intimidate him too much.