Part Twelve

"I just wanted to be the first to congratulate you," said Melody, when she called Aaron a few days later. "Well, I assume I'm first."

"I assume this is in regard to my winning the Nobel Peace Prize," said Aaron.

"Yes. We got an early notice over the wire. It's for Aaron LaBelle, not Malak, I notice."

"Regardless, this will infuriate some people," said Aaron, wryly.

"Well, at least you found Molly's project to make a power phage."

"Thanks in large part to Blackpool's work. Though Molly's bragging provided significant clues."

They chatted for a bit, about Molly and Bludgeon and the others involved in her plot. While much of what was involved was now public knowledge, much wasn't. Also, much of that public knowledge was disbelieved by many. Especially in regard to the disruption in weather control.

"The truth came out, but many people still believe the lies," said Melody.

"So we just outlive the lies," said Aaron.

"You are definitely too patient."

"Bludgeon, of course, is denying everything," said Aaron. "He claims that he was simply Molly's bodyguard, and that she was involved in innocent research. There are several criminal trials ahead, where - hopefully - the truth of the matter will be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Again, thanks in large part to Blackpool and the federal investigators he brought in. They found enough actual, physical evidence to put the lie to the claims by Molly and her people."

"That still leaves people like Throne, who don't understand empowerment and refuse to have their errors corrected."

She didn't tell him that less than five years since the previous purchase, the entire parent company for The New York Glory was about to be bought. Melody's investigation had tracked through all the dummy corporations to reveal that the buyer was Abner Throne. She was prepared, and there was no reason to worry Aaron before anything happened.

"Again - and I hate to sound like a broken record - we just need to wait them out."

"Well, anyway, my book is finished. All except for the Afterword. Do you have any words of advice for us mere mortals?"

"Keep tilting at windmills. Because sometimes - sometimes - the windmill falls."