The Testaments

Returning to her memoir, Aunt Lydia explains how she has managed to avoid the various purges that have taken place in Gilead. Being female has afforded her some level of safety, for a woman could never be a threat to the power of the Council of Commanders. Aunt Lydia is important to the regime, for she knows how to maintain control in the women’s sphere. In addition, she possesses potentially damaging information about the leaders of the Council. She has made it clear to the heads of the regime that their confidences are safe only while she is safe. Despite her precautions, Aunt Lydia realizes that her downfall could come at any time.

Commander Judd asks Aunt Lydia to meet him. She goes to the headquarters of the Eyes, wondering about this summons. In his office, Commander Judd greets Aunt Lydia warmly. She responds in kind, asking about his Wife. Commander Judd has a penchant for young women, and his Wives tend to die suddenly.

Commander Judd tells Aunt Lydia that he has wonderful news: Gilead agents in Canada have successfully eliminated two of the most active Mayday operatives. Using the cover of a used