The Trackers watched as Gorbachev shook hands with man who also seemed to be of some importance. This second man had a Chernobyl logo on his white lab coat.
“I think that’s the plant manager,” Jamal guessed.
“You’re right,” Mr. C replied. “Gorbachev is thanking him for the tour. He says that the nuclear power plant is good for the country. It is a proud moment for the Soviet Union.”
Then the manager spoke.
“He is thanking the president for coming to visit,” Mr. C went on, “And he is telling him that even though Chernobyl is a first-rate power plant, they are always improving safety. In fact, they will be conducting a safety experiment.”
“Oh no!” Maya cried out softly. “When?”
“Tonight, shortly after midnight!” Mr. C. replied, and they all gasped in horror. “Tonight is when the accident is going to happen!”
A long black, limousine pulled up alongside the curb. The driver got out and opened the door for Gorbachev. A final round of handshakes was exchanged, and the president was escorted to the car.
“We have to let him know!” Simon cried out. The driver was just about to close the car door when Simon ran over and grabbed hold of it. He also yelled out for Gorbachev in English, which alerted the security team. Simon was immediately surrounded by them.
“It’s okay,” Gorbachev said. Simon was surprised that the president spoke in English!
Then Gorbachev called out to the plant manager.
“Anatoly! I believe this young man and his friends would like a tour of the plant as well,” he said. “Please see that they learn all about this excellent facility of ours.”
“No, wait!” Simon stuttered. “That’s not why I—”
The president’s chauffer closed the door and Gorbachev rolled down the window. “I’m sorry, young man, but I have other appointments to keep. Good day….”
The limousine pulled away, so the Trackers and Mr. C all turned to the manager.
“I have my appointments, too,” the manager said in English that was very rough but understandable. “So you can come back tomorrow.”
“But that’ll be too late!” Cooper yelled.
The manager ignored him, however, and went back inside. Then the guard locked the door behind them and also walked away.
The Trackers and Mr. C tried banging on the door like before, but it was no use. Moments later, everything around them began to fade away once again.
