THE VENATORI TRIALS

Chapter ONE

Jeremiah Castel wanted nothing more than to hang up right there and then. What was being asked of the great Nation of Parnosa was simply ludicrous. Supressing a sigh, his grasp tightened around the phone as the threats coming from the other end became more insistent.

'Mr Castel, you can stall and avoid all you want, but you really have absolutely no choice in the matter. I am sure that you are fully aware of Panem's…let's call it…invaluable help in keeping your little nation afloat. You wouldn't want that same help to become a hindrance now would you?'

'Parnosa has always been forever grateful for Panem's assistance, and we have never made a secret of that…but we cannot simply hand our civilians over to what seems to be a suicide mission.'

'You can, and you will.'

'Sir, with all due respect, we are incredibly sorry for the unfortunate turn of events which have plagued your country but it is not our mess, and our citizens are not responsible for it, nor should they be implicated into your war.'

'Mr Castel, you don't understand. This is not a request, it is an order. President Snow will not tolerate insubordination. We expect a steady income of training material starting from next month.'

'And pray tell, where are we supposed to find those poor souls?'

'That is something which is entirely up to you. We would be willing to offer assistance in devising a programme designed to that end, should you wish it.'

'Not if your assistance comes with strings attached, as it seems to have done thus far.'

'Hm, I would be very careful if I were you. Do not forget the phenomenal sums of money we have poured into your desolate country.'

'So you keep reminding us. I will give you an answer by 7pm tonight.'

'By all means, take a few hours to consider, although we both know the answer which is coming.'

Jeremiah hung up before running a hand through his hair in frustration. What could they do but bend to Panem's wishes. Snow's lackey was right, without their support, Parnosa's economy would crumble. Throwing it all into perspective, a few civilians' lives surely are a small price to pay in comparison to the future of an entire nation. He would simply have to disguise the whole operation and pray for the One above to forgive him.

Two hours later, at 7pm on the dot, the President of Parnosa picked up his phone and dialled the last number called. At that precise moment, the future of hundreds of civilians was plunged into darkness.