Table of contents:

I: Dear Jo II: Hot Hot Hot III: Surrogate IV: Double Trouble V: An Artist's Whim VI: When Children Cry VII: Puppy Dog Tails VIII: The Best Laid Plans IX: Broken Trust X: The Show Must Go On XI: Who's Worried? XII: Foreboding XIII: Scared Yet? XIV: A Ray of Hope XV: Lost and Found XVI: Phase Two XVII: Lost and Found Refrained XVIII: Reunion XIX: Messages XX: There are Endings XXI: Then There are Endings

Thank you to all who made this possible, you know who you are. Mostly, thank you to Kelly Lamb for giving me the idea in the first place. And a special thanks to Deborah Thompson, who encouraged me to write this. And mostly, thank you my wonderful, beautiful wife, Tammy Markstahler, for just being you. I do hope you enjoy this little tale.

Dear Jo
Dear Jo, I had fun last night. You were lovely in your little red dress. The way you danced, I thought I wouldnt be able to contain myself. I longed to just hold you, kiss you, and make love to you. It was a terrible burden containing myself. Every time you tossed your head, and your dark curls would fly, I could see your neck, that lovely pale neck. I love the way your neck gently meets your shoulders. Id love to plant kisses there, and elsewhere. I hope Im not being too forward, I just thought you should know how I feel. I look forward to many more nights like last night, and I hope you do also. Your admirer JoAnne reread the note she had found taped to her door, unconsciously rubbing the side of her neck. She smiled. She had no idea that Frank was such a romantic. Last night had been spectacular. She hadnt danced like that in quite awhile. She hadnt even gone out in quite awhile. She was glad now that Susan had talked her into it. Normally she didnt go out on blind dates. Too many weirdos out there, but Frank had been the perfect gentleman. She had thought about inviting him in, but he simply kissed her cheek and said goodbye. She was about to call Susan when the phone rang. Hello, Jo said. Hey, Jo its Susan. So? Susan sounded excited. Details, I want all the details. Is he big? Jo laughed into the phone, and moved to the kitchen table to reclaim her coffee. I dont know. We never got that far. Susan snorted. No really. He just gave me a kiss on the cheek and left. In that dress and all you got was a kiss on the cheek. What did you do wrong? Jo choked on her coffee and spluttered into the phone. She had a hard time with Susans directness, but she was her best friend. I didnt do anything wrong! Jo said wiping coffee off the phone with a dish towel. Jeez, Susan, dont you ever think of anything else? Im married, Jo, I have time to think about a lot of things. Susan said dryly. I just think about sex more than anything else, especially when Im not having any. So what do you think went wrong?

Nothing, listen to this. Jo read Susan the letter. So you see, I did everything just right. Frank wrote that? Susan asked disbelief obvious in her voice. Who else would have? Franks an accountant, Jo. Accountants arent known for their soul. Jo set down her now cold coffee, frowning at it like it was somehow to blame for going cold. Who else would have written it, Susan? Jo was starting to get a bit worried, but pushed her feelings aside. It had to have been Frank. Maybe hes a closet poet. That wasnt a very poetic letter. Susan laughed. Jo liked her laugh. It reminded her of their carefree days as kids. Susan had never managed to actually grow up. Not very romantic either. I think it is very romantic. Jo countered. Youre a shut in, Susan said, A warm breeze would seem romantic to you. You need to get laid, Jo. So do you, Jo blushed. I agree. Ok, honey, so what are you going to do? Well, Jo drew out the syllable giving her time to think, I thought I would call Frank and ask him out to dinner. Dinner, Jo? Why not just ask him to dump you now? Well what would you suggest? Jo asked defensively. Dinners fine, but invite him over for dinner. That way hes already there, near the bedroom, where people usually have sex. You do remember sex dont you? You are such a hussy! Jo teased, but she did like that idea better. It had been awhile since she had a chance to cook for more than one. It would be fun to have a dinner guest again. Alright, Ill do it. Great, Im coming over to help you with wardrobe. We want to get this right. Susan didnt wait for a reply, hanging up before Jo could protest that she was capable of dressing herself. Jo picked up her coffee cup and walked over to the wall hook to hang up the phone. She poured out her cold coffee and put the cup in the sink. Her kitchen was the one room she hadnt redone in her home yet. She loved to cook, and wanted to get it just right. Until then, she made do with the old gas stove and hand washing dishes. The cabinets werent bad, if you ignored the fact that they were painted white. Jo made a mental note to look into glass fronted cabinets, and maybe a Spanish tile for the flooring to replace the linoleum. The refrigerator was her one nod to updating the kitchen. She insisted on a good fridge. Hers is polished stainless steel with side by side doors, and an ice dispenser in the freezer door. She opened the fridge door, and looked inside to see what she had to work with. Some hamburger was thawing, she was good on vegetables, and if she remembered right, she had lasagna noodles in the cabinet. Lasagna it is then, with steamed broccoli. Nodding to herself, she shut the door and started to run over the recipe in her mind. She went into the living room and sat on the sofa, technically it is a feinting couch, but it still served the purpose of a sofa. She wrote out a quick grocery

list, shed need some cheese for the lasagna, and then got out her home improvement idea book. She was in the middle of making notes from the current Better Homes magazine, when Susan arrived. Susan let herself in, closed Jos magazine mid-note, and hauled her upstairs to the bedroom. Soon the two were giggling like little girls again while Jo modeled her evening wear. I like the white summer dress. Susan said, as Jo spun around. She was wearing her strapless black ball dress. We can always go shopping and get a white teddy. Jo rolled her eyes. Innocent on the outside Jo started. And sultry underneath. Susan finished. They both laughed at their old saying. It was Susans theory that every man wanted a bad girl, but they wanted her to look and act like a good girl. The public and private personas Susan called them. Jo couldnt argue as it had landed Susan her husband. OK, shopping then. Jo said, and the phone chose that moment to ring. Hello, Jo said picking up the phone from the night stand, Alright, Mack calm down. No, the network is not out to get you, you just forgot your password. Jo rolled her eyes, and Susan made hurry up motions. Mack, Im on vacation, remember? Jo continued. I cant come in just to call I.T. for you. Just dial Carlos and he can reset your password for you. OK, Mack. Yes, Im having a ball. OK you too, goodbye. Jo hung up the phone. I swear that man cant do his job without me. Jo said from the bathroom as she changed. Tell him you need a raise. Susan said as she walked around Jos bedroom, stopping in front of her dresser. The dresser looked as if it were brand new, no dings and dents of a well used piece of furniture. And, knowing Jo, it was real cherry wood, and not just veneered to fake it. Susan smiled as she picked up a picture of the two of them from last summer. It was taken in Susans back yard during her Fourth of July party. The two of them were standing under the huge elm, and raising beers in a toast. I already make more than he does. Jo came out of the bathroom in a tee and jeans. She smiled when she saw what Susan was holding. Come on, lets go shopping. How can you be making more than your boss? Susan asked setting the picture down and following Jo down the stairs. Susan loved the two bedroom house she had found for Jo. But she didnt understand why Jo insisted on wood floors for the downstairs and carpet on the upstairs. Carpet it all; wood floors are too much trouble. But Jo insisted. She was in love with wood. The entire downstairs, except for the kitchen was wood, wood floors, wood paneling, oak bookshelves, and barely any cushioning on her Victorian furniture. The dusting had to take most of a day. Im better than he is. Jo said flippantly, which told Susan she wasnt going to say. Jo slipped on her sandals and out the door they went. Even the waist high picket fence around the small, well kept, lawn was stained wood. No whitewash for Jo. The part of her home that wasnt brick was covered in stained cedar shingles. Susan knew it

cost her friend a small fortune to keep up her home, but Jo denied it every time she asked. Susan saw one of the cities growing population of homeless walking up the street. I swear this city gets more vagrants every day. Susan said nodding at the man. He was wearing a filthy red sweatshirt, and ripped camo jeans. Susan hated them. She thought that all the homeless in the world should be gathered up and given a city of their own. Then they would be out of the way. Its just old Willy. Jo said looking to where Susan nodded. Hes harmless, and a great carpenter. Jo waved at Willy and he smiled and waved back. Susan frowned and got into the car. She briefly thought about running him over while she was backing out of the drive, but couldnt figure out how to get away with it. The mall was packed as always. Of course it was the only mall in the city. Jo really didnt enjoy the mall, having grown up on her parents farm, she liked open space. Not to mention that the mall had taken Old Man Henkers farm from him and his family. To be fair, they did get rich from the sell, but Jo hated how her hometown was expanding. Lets just get in and get out ok, Susan? Jo said locking the car door behind her. Ten years ago you wouldnt have had to worry about that. Just another way things had changed, and not for the better. You remember when we used to come out here for pony rides? Susan asked catching Jos mood. Jo rolled her eyes, and snorted with laughter. We rode cows, Susan, Jo reminded her, Henker couldnt afford any ponies. Oh, yea, well whatever we rode, it was fun. Yea, it was. Jo lost herself to the memory of two little girls giggling on the back of a cow, while Jessie Lynn led them around the farm. Jo missed Jessie. Jessie was Henkers oldest daughter. She had married a city man, moved, and never looked back. If she had just waited a few more years, shed have been living in a city. Olseada had been a small farm community until Tier Electronics had built a factory here. Everyone marveled that a new electronics firm would build a factory way out in the boonies, but JoAnnes parents had known why. Olseada had practically given Tier the land to build on, and in return Tier promised to keep eighty percent of their work force local. No one then could have known how fast Tier would grow. Now they only had around thirty-five percent local workers, the rest were transplants from all around the country. And computers, calculators, and televisions flew out of Olseada at the speed of light. Well, at the speed of the packing plant anyway. The air turned sour, the stars faded, and the city grew. Jo shook the memories away. Come on, I want to get this over with. Jo said. Susan shook her head. Jo always got emotional when they came out here. Shopping was done quickly. Jo chose a lacy white strapless teddy that fit her lithe form like a second skin. Susan was eternally jealous of Jos body. After two children,

Susan was lucky to fit into her favorite jeans. She had very good intentions of loosing weight, but her love affair with food was one she just couldnt give up. And at thirtynine, she just didnt care any more. Susan picked up a draping red night dress and underwear to match. Maybe Stan would take notice when she wore this to bed. She toyed with the thought of dressing up sexy and then feigning a headache when she had Stan thoroughly inflamed, but she knew shed give in. Married sex was nothing if not predictable. Once every two weeks Stan would rub her shoulder, kiss her neck, bounce on her like a drunken rabbit, and then roll over and go to sleep. He about feinted when she asked him do her doggie style, and ended up sleeping on the couch after she had laughed at him. Why are all the good men lousy lovers, she wondered to herself. The ride home was quiet, Jos mood persisting. Jo bade Susan goodbye, and walked to her door. She deposited her new teddy on the sofa, and went to the kitchen to get her number book. She should have called Frank before she went shopping. He had a business dinner, and would be unable to come over. They made plans for the weekend and hung up. Jo went back to the living room and stared at her eighty dollar useless purchase. Well, maybe not, she smiled as she thought about it. Closing all the blinds on the way up to her bathroom, she made plans for a romantic evening alone. Her favorite pastimes walk around in her underwear, and drinking to loneliness. She lit candles after donning her new teddy, opened a bottle of wine, and passed out to the animal channel.

II Hot Hot Hot

Dear Jo, That teddy is hot! So exciting. Did you buy that for me? I didnt want to wake you, so I made you a little breakfast. You shouldnt drink so much. I dont like it when you drink. Youre beautiful anyway. Your cute little nose, your curls. Did you know you snore? Dont worry, I dont mind. Ill look in on you later. Your admirer So this, uh, Mister Oless, detective Yolesen looked down at his notes, he denies doing this? Jo put the ice pack down. Her head was eight times too big, and her mouth tasted like gym socks. And not clean ones. She had awoken to the smell of fresh coffee, and when she went to the kitchen had found the table set with fruit, scrambled eggs, and bacon. How she had slept through that she had no idea, but it had spooked her. She called Frank to chew him out, and he denied doing any of it, including writing the first letter. He had also reminded her that he didnt have keys to her house, and he did not know how to pick locks. When she hung up the phone, she went and checked all the doors, something she should have done first thing, but her hangover clouded her thinking. All the doors were locked, and she had found the second note taped to the front door. It was more than creepy, it was frightening. And to top it all off, the police detective wanted to ask her the same questions twelve different ways. Ive already answered that. Jo sighed. I called him, and he convinced me he didnt. Look, is this really helping? We got some good prints, detective. The young lady said. Jo had been introduced when she had taken Jos prints, but had promptly forgotten her name. If you dont need anything else, I want to get to the lab. Detective Yolesen waved his hand absently. It must have been a dismissal, because the young woman left.

Well need the names of everyone who has access to your house, Miss Grast, friends, family, and any handymen. The detective put his small notepad into his breast pocket. Sure, Ill get those to you as soon as I can think straight. Jo picked up the ice pack and reapplied it to her head. She walked Detective Yolesen to the door, and fumbled with the locks one handed. What she wanted now was aspirin, water, and sleep, but Susan chose that moment to ring the door bell, and bang the door at the same time. Jo groaned and did her one handed fumble to unlock the door and open it. Whats going on? Susan said loudly. The damn cops took my prints, Jo! What happened? Why, yes, Im fine, Susan, and how are you? Jo asked as she made her way to the couch. Youre not fine, Susan said untouched by the sarcasm, following her into the living room, You look like hell. Did Frank do something last night? Jo gave up the idea of sleeping and went into the kitchen. She dumped out the coffee that the cops had left in the pot, and started a new one. They had told her not to eat or drink anything that she had found that morning, like they needed to tell her. Susan sat down at the table and reached out to grab some bacon. Jo turned from filling the pot with water at the sink, and casually slapped Susans hand away. She set the pot down on the table and threw the food into the garbage. When she had finished she started coffee. Susan and Jo sat in silence while the coffee brewed. When they both had cups in front of them, Jo told Susan everything that had happened. I told you accountants dont have any soul. Susan said after Jo had finished. Jo laughed ruefully. Ill never doubt you again. Jo told her. So what are the cops doing about it? Nothing they can do. Jo got up to refill her cup that didnt actually need it. She just felt a need to move, it made her feel less helpless. I have no idea who it could be so now they wait on fingerprints. Jo replaced the coffee pot and sat back down. The one that doesnt belong is our guy. Jo said taking a sip of coffee. Caffeine was helping with her headache, but she longed to reach her bathroom and get some aspirin inside her. She suddenly felt all her helplessness, and the terror of the morning. Silent tears of fear ran down her cheeks. Susan leaned across the table and clasped her hand. Youre staying with me for awhile. Susan told her softly, and Jo looked up into her friends eyes. I wont take no for an answer, Jo. I have a

spare room I never use, you can stay there. She let go of Jos hand and took a sip of coffee. Besides, I could use a babysitter. Susan said nonchalantly. Jo smiled and took a sip of her own coffee, wiping away her tears. It had been years since she had stayed in a house with people in it. It could be fun. Alright, but I cook. Jo told her. Deal. Susan said, and they finished their coffee while making plans for the move. The move went much smoother than Jo would have expected. Stan put up only token resistance, and Jo could tell that he too was concerned. She could also tell that one more female in the house was something he was totally against. A wife and two daughters had him practically swimming in estrogen. Hell, even the dog and the ferret are female. Susans daughters, Melinda age seventeen and Cody Lynn age fifteen, were excited that Aunt Jo was going to be staying. They both helped Jo pack and stuffed as much of her DVD collection as they could into the car. They also managed to snag Jos spare laptop, the one she kept her games on. Susan and Stan were against electronic games, but that was because they hated Tier not because they were afraid of what it might do to their young girls. As a result, good ol Aunt Jo got regular visits from the girls to chat online, or just play the Sims. Jos new room was really not what she would have put together, but it fit the house. Susans home was a hodgepodge of different styles. What ever happened to be on sale, or looked good at the garage sale. The spare room had a four poster, queen sized bed. Dark wood, with mosquito netting, and right next to it was a plastic nightstand, bright red. Jo made a mental note to get her own furniture if she was going to be spending more than a week here. There wasnt anything she could do about the dishwater beige carpet. At least the hope chest and the dresser were made of properly stained oak and cedar. Dinner at Susans was an inelegant affair of eat what you want, whenever you want it. She never insisted that the family sit down together, except on Sunday. Sunday was family day, and Susan insisted that they spend it together. Stan seemed content, but the girls chomped at the bit all day. After a quick meal of mac and cheese, Jo retired to her room for some much needed rest. When she pulled back the covers she found an odd assortment of socks, toys, and miscellaneous knick-knacks, Bongos stash. Just great, the ferret nested in her bed. Jo sighed and gathered everything

into a corner, and then covered it all with an old sweater. Hopefully Bongo would get the hint. The rest of the week passed without incident. The girls found refuge fighting over the DVDs and the laptop. Jo organized Susans kitchen, and Stan gave her a kiss of gratitude the first chance he got. It always surprised Jo that Susan, who grew up in a country family, couldnt cook to save her life. Jo had to hide her grin as Susan would frown every time someone asked for seconds. She noticed that Susan asked just as often as everyone else, though. Jo helped out as much as she could. She picked up Cody Lynn from her twice a week martial arts lessons. When Jo had asked her why karate and not dance, Cody Lynn replied that she liked to fight more than she liked to dance, Jo just chalked it up to Cody being Cody. Susan had been expecting a boy when she was pregnant with Cody. Even the ultra sounds agreed with her, right up until Cody was born. Cody is ever the more adventurous of the two girls. At ten she took it into her head to climb every tree in the five acres that Susan and Alex owned. She didnt even let a broken arm from a fall stop her. Jo admired her grit, but wished Cody could be just a little more like a girl. Jo understood girls, like Melinda. Melinda was girl through and through. Her hobbies included shopping, boys, shopping, talking on the phone, shopping, getting her nails done, and shopping. Jo was surprised that babysitting paid for all the shopping this girl did, but Melinda had her mothers nose for a sale, and thankfully better taste. Melinda surprised Jo on her last birthday with a beautiful diamond pendant. Jo protested and tried to give it back, and Melinda told her she had found it at a garage sale for a dollar. The old lady that was selling it had thought it was costume jewelry. That was Melinda, lucky and thrifty. Mack McGregor, the Boss. Yes, Boss with a capitol B. Jos vacation had come to an end and she was forced to return to work. Mack had finally tracked her down at Susans and called her relentlessly the last two days of her vacation. First the Parsons account needed to be redone and he couldnt find the original file. That was because he thought the files should be filed by first names. Joe Parson was the owner of the largest liquor store chain in Olseada, and Tier sold them all their cameras. Next he had a problem with Wilma the temp. Wilma had been temping with Tier for the last eight years, just filling in for secretaries and aides on vacation. She didnt know that they all planned their vacations that way on purpose to keep her on. She was a single mother and needed the income. She had been at the job so long that her temp agency gave her insurance and paid holidays.

And though they didnt know it, they would soon be putting her little boy through medical school. Four years back the head of accounting had suggested hiring Wilma to save cost, but had to hire ten more temps when the secretaries and aides in accounting all caught the flu at the same time. She never suggested it again. Wilma, by virtue of being a temp, knew who actually ran the company. So when Mack told her how he wanted her to do her job, she would smile and nod, and then do the job exactly as Jo had outlined it for her. Mack had asked her to pick up his lunch at the deli, which was part of her job, and tried to get her to take it back when it wasnt the right order, which wasnt part of her job. Wilma told Mack to stop being a baby and get the mustard that the deli had forgotten from the fridge in the break room. Jo could just see Macks red, splotchy face when he called. Jo promised to talk to Wilma, and then called payroll to authorize a bonus for her instead. After the fourth phone call over triviality Jo assured Mack that she would be back on time only if he quit calling. Now she was face to face with her annoying boss, oops, Boss and wondered if she could give herself another raise this year. That woman is insufferable! Mack ranted, spittle flying from his lips. Jo stared at his management goatee, and nodded. I mean it, Jo, the next time you go on vacation she will not sub for you! Yes, Mack. Jo said. Anything else? Its nice to have you back, Jo. Mack said surprising Jo. This was the first time Mack had shown any bit of caring for another human being. She was immediately suspicious. What is it, Mack? She asked guardedly. Mack shrugged and started to pace. That was never a good sign. Pacing meant he was trying to decide how to talk her into doing something she wasnt going to want to do. He stopped pacing, opened his mouth, frowned and went back to pacing. Jo simply waited him out. I dont know how to broach this without giving away a confidence, so Ill just say it straight. Mack turned to face Jo. I know about your stalker, Jo and Im worried for you. Jo was confused and touched at the same time. How? She asked trying to collect her thoughts. Missy told me. Mack said. My wife. He clarified when he saw Jos confused look. The woman that fingerprinted your house, Jo. Jo felt her jaw drop in amazement. Mack smiled at her. I thought I had introduced you. Jo thought back to a distant Christmas party. Missy had been pregnant then and Jo hadnt made the connection before Mack told her.

Tell her Im sorry I didnt recognize her. Jo said lamely. Mack smiled at her. Dont worry. She knew how upset you were. She wants me to tell you that you have a beautiful home, by the way. Thank you. Jo said still stunned. Or rather, thank her. Look, Mack you dont have to worry about me. Im staying with Susan, as you well know, and Ill stay until they catch the guy. Mack began to pace again. Henry is going to talk to you later today about just that, Jo. Mack said pacing. Jo had no idea who Henry was, but she kept still and waited. Normally Missy doesnt talk about work, but she knows how indispensable you are to me. The only prints at your house that werent on your list belong to some fellow named William Eisenhower Jenkins. Henry picked him up yesterday. He was sleeping in your tool shed. Mack stopped and raised an eyebrow at Jo. Jo felt her stomach plunge. She had totally forgotten about Willy. They need to let him go, Mack. Jo got to her feet. She knew she sounded desperate, but she didnt want the cops hurting the old man. I gave him permission to stay there. Mack looked at her silently for a moment, then nodded and picked up the phone. After a quick conversation he said, I see, and hung up the phone. Im afraid hes no longer there, Jo. It seems he was a Captain or something in the Navy. A man from the D.O.D. bailed him out this morning. Jo was once again shocked. She had known that Willy had been in the Navy, but if the D.O.D. was involved he was much more than just a retiree. She felt bad now that she had made him sleep in the tool shed. I dont know what to say, Mack. I had no idea. Mack looked at her unbelieving, but held his tongue. If you dont mind, Mack She let the question hang in the air unspoken. Mack frowned but nodded and she collected her things and left. Wilma! She heard Mack yell as she put on her jacket to leave. Wilma rolled her eyes at Jo when they passed, and Jo smiled her understanding. Ill turn my cell on, Wilma. Jo told her collecting her purse. Just call if he gets out of hand. No worry, Miss Grast. Wilma chuckled. Wilma never called anyone by their first names while she was in the office. Mister McGregors bark is worse than his bite. Jo gave her a hug and hoped that payroll came through with her bonus.

Jo wracked her brain while she drove home, trying to figure out a way to get Willy out of trouble. She was so preoccupied that she almost drove past her home. She didnt recognize it with the camouflaged trucks and police cruisers in front of it. She was stopped by an armed man in a navy uniform standing in front of her door. No admittance, Maam. He told her with one hand on his pistol. I live here. She told him coldly. Orders, Maam, no one in without authorization. The front door opened and another uniformed man walked out. She saw other uniformed men ripping her walls apart before the door closed. At ease, Sergeant, the new man said. The guard on her door took his hand off his pistol, but he still watched her as much as he did the front yard and the street. May I help you, Miss? The new man said confronting Jo. You had better. Jo hissed in her angry whisper. I want you out of my house. I want my house put back together. And I want it as clean as it was when you arrived! Miss Grast, then? He asked, herding her away from the front door. This is just standard procedure, Maam. I assure you that when were through you wont be able to tell we were here. Jo stopped and stood her ground, staring the newcomer in the eye. This isnt standard anything, Mister, Mister Lieutenant Crane, Maam. He supplied calmly. Lieutenant, this is not standard procedure. She repeated. This is about Willy, and you had better be treating him well! The Captain does have something to do with this, yes. Lieutenant Crane said. He did some sensitive work for us. We just want to make sure he didnt leave anything behind. He slept in the damn tool shed you idiot! Jo yelled. Maam, we are aware of where he slept. The Lieutenant was trying to calm her. If you will just let us do our job, well get done all the sooner. We will then repair any damage we may have done, and you wont be able to tell the difference. Jo lifted a finger and pointed it into the Lieutenants face, backing him up as she paced forward. I put five very long years into this house, Crane. Not to mention thousands of dollars, blood and tears into getting this house just right! Willy is the only one who knows how everything in that house is put together, so if he isnt in there fixing it; its not going to be back like it was. And so help me if its not I will make your life into a hell that would make your Drill Sergeant scream in his sleep. Have I made myself clear, Lieutenant Crane?

Jo found herself only inches away from the Lieutenant who was forced to stop at the foot of the front steps. Were you in the military, Miss Grast? The Lieutenant asked. Jo dropped her hand in surprise at the question, and Lieutenant Crane put his hands on her shoulders and gently pushed her back to arms length. The door guard fought back a smile. Not to worry, Maam were very good at what we do. If youll just attend me over here, he said leading her to a black van parked in her driveway. I just need to ask you some questions. He opened the side door of the van and took out a clipboard from inside. Did Captain Jenkins ever mention what he did for the Navy? He asked. No, Mister Crane Jo Began. Lieutenant, Crane interrupted, Lieutenant Crane, Maam. No, Lieutenant, Jo sneered, he just said hed been in the Navy. Hes smart and can fix damn near anything so I hired him to do some work around the house, and let him sleep in the shed. Did you ever see him working with any chemicals that werent related to construction? He asked making notes on the clipboard. Jo was getting fed up with this line of questioning. No, Lieutenant I didnt see him making bombs, drugs, or whatever he did for you, although, now that you mention it, I did over hear him talking to the Kremlin about taking over the Lottery! Lieutenant Crane started to write and then stopped to look up at her. These are just routine questions, Miss Grast. The more you cooperate the faster we get done. It might help if you tell me what it is your looking for, Mister Crane. She said, emphasizing mister. Lieutenant Crane sighed rubbing his forehead, he put his pen back in his pocket and then put the clipboard back into the van. Classified Was all he told her. He took out a business card with his name and number on it. If you remember him doing or saying anything out of the ordinary you will call. He didnt make it sound like a question. Jo took the card and left without a goodbye. The Lieutenant watched her as she got into her car and left.

III Surrogate
Dear Jo, Jo sweet Jo, I go to the trouble of making you breakfast, and you call the police? Thats just rude, Jo, rude. But I forgive you. I can forgive you anything. But shell have to pay. She looks so much like you, Jo. Her long black curls, her thin face, pronounced cheek bones. Her nose even turns up into a cute little point like yours. Her breasts are fuller than yours, and her nipples darker. And her screams, Jo. Oh her delicate whimpering screams. She would scream for me, and I would kiss her tears away, licking her salty tears right off her cheeks. But I broke her, Jo. YOU MADE ME BREAK HER!!!! She was just too delicate. I was so angry, Jo, so very angry. I beat her, and she screamed. I beat her, and she cried. I made love to her one last time, cutting her throat right as I climaxed. The blood was beautiful, Jo, a fountain of red washing us from our love making. She looked so peaceful when we were done. I bathed her and dressed her in white. I left roses. Please, Jo, please dont make me break another one. Your admirer

Jo was almost crying too hard to read the letter she had found on the front seat of her car that morning. She sat in her car, the door open, crying and trying to keep her shaking hands steady enough to finish the letter. She didnt know who this guy was talking about, but it made her sick thinking about the torture this woman had went through because of her. She was still sitting in her car, crying and rereading the letter when Susan found her. My God, Jo! Jo! Susan ran to the car. Jo, whats wrong? Jo, talk to me. Jo couldnt say anything. She handed Susan the letter, and pushed past her to vomit on the front lawn. Oh my God. She heard Susan say. She couldnt stand. All she wanted to do was curl into a ball and cry.

Come on, Jo. Susan said, picking Jo off the ground. Lets get inside. Susan led her into the house, and sat her down at the pale oak kitchen table. She left Jo at the table to phone the police and returned with a double shot of bourbon. Drink it. Susan ordered. And then when she hesitated. All of it, Jo. You need to calm down before the police get here. Im so sorry, Susan. Jo sobbed. Im so sorry. Susan hugged Jos head to her stomach and held her while she cried. Its ok, JoJo, everything is going to be ok. Susan said, using Jos childhood nickname. No, Susan, Jo told her looking up at Susan, its not ok. He knows Im here. Jo watched Susans face pale as understanding sank in. Jos presence put Susan and her family at risk. Jo started to cry again, and this time Susan let her silent tears flow as she tried to calm her friend. The two women had calmed down by the time Detective Yoleson showed up. He brought the team with him. Jos car was fingerprinted top to bottom, and she just did stop them from towing it in to take a deeper look at it. As Detective Yoleson was just finishing up with his notes, Lieutenant Crane barged in the front door. I thought we were going to work this together, he said to the detective. Yoleson rolled his eyes and put his little notepad into his breast pocket. I was just going to call you, Lieutenant. The detective said. Lieutenant Crane nodded at Jo, and looked a curious moment at Susan then turned back to Detective Yoleson. Ill need copies of your notes, Detective, and Ill take that letter please. He held out his hand, waiting. Yoleson looked at his outstretched hand and then up into his eyes. I dont have a problem giving you a copy of my notes, Lieutenant; however the letter is evidence in an on going investigation. I wont be able to let you take it. Crane dropped his hand and took a stern stance, his fist balled at his sides. May I remind you, Detective, that the D.O.D. takes precedent in this case. This has nothing to do with the vagrant, Lieutenant. Detective Yoleson said moving toward the front door. This is a stalking case, and now possibly a murder. Miss Grast, Missus Holen. Yoleson walked out with a tip of his head at the two women.

That man has no idea who hes dealing with, Lieutenant Crane said under his breath. He turned to the two women and after an awkward silence he nodded his head and left as well. Jo got up from Susans patchwork couch and went into the kitchen. Susan followed and the two sat down at the table with coffee in tow. I dont know what Im going to do, Susan. Jo answered the unasked question in her friends eyes. I wont stay here, though. Dont be silly, Susan said, but Jo could see the relief in her eyes. You heard the detective. We get our own police for the duration. That wont last, Susan. Jo took a sip of coffee. Besides they can sit outside a hotel just as easily as here. Susan, I dont want the kids brought into this. I couldnt forgive myself if something happened to one of them. Jo waited for Susan to answer, but Susan was staring off into space, silent tears running down her cheeks. Im sorry, Jo. She finally whispered, her coffee forgotten halfway to her mouth. I feel I should be there for you, to protect you. And then I feel I want you as far away from my family as possible. I know I talk bad about them, but I dont know what I would do without them. Jo reached across the table and clasped her friends hand. Susan met Jos eyes and Jo smiled her understanding. Then Ill make the choice for you, dear. Im going to call in and then find a hotel. Ill call to let you know where Im at, and we can get coffee or lunch. My treat. Susan sobbed and Jo rose from her seat to go and comfort her friend. In truth Jo needed comforting just as much as Susan did, their hugs speaking their forgiveness, and their tears their love. Jo called in to work, and Mack was understandably upset. Then she called Wilma and made arrangements for her urgent documents to be couriered to her when she found a hotel. She left all but her clothes at Susans and drove her car back to her house. She used her cell to call for a cab, and told the driver to take her to any hotel downtown. The driver took her to the Hilton and after tipping the driver she went inside. Detective Yolenson meet her at the check in desk and checked her in as a police consultant for an indeterminate time. After he got her settled in, she refused a door guard once again, and he left. Her hotel room looked like every hotel she had ever stayed in. Firm mattress on the bed, blinds and curtains for the window, a mini fridge and a microwave, and of course the obligatory television, which she switched on to CNN and promptly forgot. She sat at the table by the window and stared out at the Tier building just down the block. Its glass and chrome tower

rising fourteen stories tall, the tallest building in Olseana. The phone rang and interrupted her daydreams of skyscrapers and megacities. Hello? She said, a bit nervous. No one was supposed to know she was here, and she hadnt yet called Susan to tell her were she had ended up. Miss Johnson? A male voice said. It took Jo a moment to remember that she was now Amilia Johnson, consultant to the Olseana police department. Yes. Theres a gentleman here to see you, Maam, should I send him up? Jo felt her blood run cold. She almost dropped the phone from fingers that had suddenly lost all sensation. Who, she had to stop and clear her throat, Who is he? Jo heard the sound of a muffled conversation. He says his name is Willy, Maam. Jo almost laughed with relief. Ill be right down. She hung up the phone and headed down to the lobby. When she got to the lobby she started looking around for the old man in his grubby sweatshirt. The only one by the front desk was an older gentleman in a navy suit, casually holding a briefcase in one had. He was smiling at her. Willy? She asked as she came up to the desk. He smiled at her and took her by the elbow, leading her away from the desk. She looked at his gray hair, once long and matted now in a perfect military cut. He had showered and shaved. The only thing that let her know it was Willy was the amused pale blue eyes sparkling at her. He led her to the Hotels restaurant and found them a booth well away from the door. It was in a corner where Willy could watch the whole room. Willy, whats going on? Jo asked after they had seated themselves with coffee. Willy pushed the briefcase he had set on the floor to her side of the table with his foot. Take that. He told her, taking a sip of coffee. Inside is a twentytwo caliber semiautomatic pistol. The safety is by the trigger, just point and shoot. He said this as if she should understand why he had just given her a gun. She looked down at the briefcase with distaste. Willy, I dont like guns. She told him about to slide the briefcase back. He held it place with a toe, and shook his head. I dont care if you like them or not, you need one. He met her eyes and he looked more serious than she had ever seen him. Usually he looked like he knew the answer to a joke no one had asked, now he looked like a guardian angel, and a mad one at that. Willy, I dont understand. Jo said.

I dont have a lot of time, Miss Grast. He told her. By now Crane knows Im A.W.O.L. and hell come looking for me. You will need that gun if Im right about whos stalking you. Willy, how did you find me? Jo was confused and found it easier to focus on the little details rather than the whole picture. I followed you. He told her. I borrowed your car, and I followed you here. You stole my car! Jo heard her voice rising with the hysterics she was beginning to feel. Willy shushed her and looked around the room quickly to make sure she hadnt attracted any attention. Ill put it back, Miss Grast, He said looking at her again. Now listen, theres no time. The man stalking you used to be a colleague of mine, one Doctor Griss. We did some things for the government, things I cant get into right now. I thought at first he was looking for me. We didnt part well. All I can tell you is that hes dangerous. Very dangerous. Im going to try and lead Crane to him, but I wanted to see that you were protected first. I cant say I approve of the way the police are handling this, but I can work with it. That gun should be with you at all times, Maam. All times. Including in the bathroom. Never let it out of arms reach. There are also some documents, some of my notes, and a CD with my journal. That should explain things a little better for you. Dont let Crane see them. Hell take them from you. If anything happens to me, you get that CD to the press, and then theyll have to protect you. Jo was slightly taken aback. This was the most Willy had ever said at one time before. She had so many questions, but she never got the chance to ask them. Willys head shot up and a look of panic swept over his face. He rose from the booth and left through the outer door of the restaurant. Jo looked toward the lobby door and saw Lieutenant Crane scanning the room. She shoved the briefcase under the table with her foot, just as Crane spotted her and made his way over. Miss Grast, he said, sitting down where Willy had been seated. He moved Willys coffee out of the way and looked up into her eyes. I dont suppose youve seen your friend Willy, have you? Jo took a sip of her coffee to cover her nerves and shook her head no. Lieutenant Crane smiled. No, I didnt suppose you had. You just like coffee so much you drink it two cups at a time. He lost his smile. Miss Grast, the Captain is a very dangerous man. If you know where he is you need to tell me. Jo set her coffee down and clasped her hands to keep them from shaking. Of the two of them, Willy and Crane, she thought that Crane was the more dangerous.

Im sorry if you cant keep tabs on a senile old man, Lieutenant. If you would like help babysitting him, Id be more than happy to offer my services. Lieutenant Cranes eyes went cold, and he leaned forward resting his arms on the table. This is not a game, Miss Grast. He hissed. Captain Jenkins is more intelligent than you and I put together, and just as cagey. He developed things for the Navy that would start a second revolution if the public ever found out about them. Killing you is not the worst he could do. Now I would like to do my duty and protect the people of the United States from a known killer, and I will not let you stop me from doing my duty. Jo leaned away from the Lieutenant as he spoke. You mean to tell me, that the Navy has let a known killer run around loose all this time, and the public has never found out about it? Jo knew she had made a mistake as soon as she finished. Cranes face went blank and his eyes dead. He rose from the table and held out his hand to her. Youll come with me now, Miss Grast. His voice had assumed the tones of a man used to being obeyed. Jos mind raced as she tried to think of a way out of the mess she had landed in. He went out that door. She said pointing at the door Willy had escaped through. He just wanted to let me know he was alright. Crane let his hand fall and he took out his phone. He issued orders to whoever had answered and hung up, looking back down at Jo. And what else did the two of you chat about, Miss Grast? Jo thought furiously. How much should she tell the Lieutenant? He was just trying to help her after all, but she just couldnt bring herself to trust him. He said that my stalkers name is Doctor Griss, and that he was going to try and track him down. This rocked the Lieutenant. His eyes glazed and he grimaced while he thought. He came back to himself, and looked down at Jo as if he had come to some decision, one she wasnt going to like. He took his phone back out of his pocket and walked toward the lobby as he talked. Jo heaved a sigh of relief. She waited until he had left the restaurant, collected the briefcase and went to her room. She saw Crane arguing with the clerk and knew it was going to be a long night when she saw him flash his badge. She had the feeling that she was about to have unwelcome company. When she was safely back in her room she opened the briefcase. The holstered gun sat atop a manila folder full of papers with long complicated equations covering them. She took the gun from the case and set it on the table. The folder also held the promised CD. She took the CD from the case and closed it back up, putting it into the top drawer of the rooms dresser.

She sat down at her laptop, and booted it up. The CD was locked however, and she couldnt guess the password. Just her luck, how did Willy expect her to read the damn thing if she couldnt even open the files? She looked at the clock on the nightstand. It was just after one in the afternoon, but it felt like she had been awake for a week. She closed her laptop, and after calling Susan to let her know where she was, she lay down for a nap. And in local news, the T.V. was saying as she woke from her nap, an unknown woman was found dead today. Two teenage boys riding their bikes home from school found the body lying under a tree at the home of Thomas Mannison. The police say the Mister Mannison is not a suspect, and that they are following some good leads. She had been badly beaten and her throat appeared to be cut. Police ask anyone who may know the woman to please contact them. Tier Electronics announced today that they will not be moving forward with the planned layoffs they had announced last month, and instead Jo sat up and turned the T.V. off. The picture of the dead woman still burned in her mind, black curly hair framing a porcelain white face, marred by cuts and bruises. Jo jumped and just stopped herself from screaming as the phone rang. She reached out a shaky hand to answer it. Hello. She said. Jo, its Susan, Susan told her needlessly, Did you see the news? Yes, was all Jo could say. Do you think thats her? Look, Susan, I dont know. I dont want to think about it. Im sorry. That was rude of me. Im just worried, Jo. I know, Susan, its alright. Look, Im really tired, and I still havent eaten today. How bout I call you tomorrow, ok? Alright, dear. Sleep tight. Susan said. Jo assured her she would and hung up the phone. As soon as she had hung up the phone it rang again. Hello? Jo said hesitantly. Youll wait in your room and well have dinner sent up to you, Miss Grast. The Lieutenants voice said. You bugged my phone, you bastard? Jo almost screamed at him. Procedure, Miss Grast, good evening. The phone went dead. Jo slammed the phone down, and got up to pace the room. She was beginning to understand what it felt like to be a prisoner and she didnt like it one bit. A half an hour latter she was sitting at the table, contemplating her escape, when there was a knock at the door. The door opened with out her

answering and Lieutenant Crane came in carrying a tray. He set the tray on the table in front of her, raising an eyebrow at the pistol still lying on the table. He picked it up, and examined it as he talked. Any food you order will be inspected by us first. You will not have any visitors without an escort, nor will you leave without an escort. Do you understand Miss Grast? He asked, shoving the clip back in the gun and putting it back in the holster. Am I under arrest, Lieutenant? Jo asked following the gun with her eyes as he set it back on the table. Not yet. He told her, turning to leave the room. Good night, Miss Grast. He shut the door behind him. Jo considered throwing the food tray at his back, but hunger got the better of her. She ate mechanically while she thought everything through. She couldnt have said what it was she ate, but she managed to finish it all. She left the tray on the table, and went into the bathroom to shower.

IV Double Trouble
Dear Jo, Ive had so much fun avoiding your guards. Its funny; they actually think they know what theyre doing. Did you see her, Jo? Wasnt she lovely? I did that for us, you know. How dare she walk around looking like you! But, thats ok. I took care of everything. I found another last night. She has your eyes, Jo, such a lovely shade of brown. Shes younger than you are though. And she fights like an alley cat. But she was crying in the end. I chained her to the bed, and made her look at me with your eyes as we made love. Such fear, it added a certain spice to the night. She screamed when I first penetrated her. Then she just sobbed. She cried such large tears, delicious tears. I fell asleep with her whimpers singing in my ears. I didnt break her though. Dont make me break her, Jo. Your admirer The breakfast tray lay forgotten on the faux wood table of Jos hotel room. She had found the note folded into her napkin. Her hands shook as she read through tears of fright and worry. She could only pray for who ever it was that was in this mans control. When she could move, she walked to the door and told the guard outside to get Crane. What is it now, Miss Grast? Lieutenant Crane asked looking rather bored as he walked into the room. It had been a week since he and his men had taken over Jos life, and she had made a point of being as much as an unfriendly guest as she could. One night she had asked for chocolate moose from a specific diner across town, and then threw it away in front of Crane when it had been delivered. A week of couriers bringing her what work she could accomplish from a hotel, a week of being escorted to and from her room. A week of being shut away from everyone and every thing she loved. Needless to say she had been going just a little crazy, but Crane saw immediately that this wasnt one of those times. Miss Grast? Jo held out the note for him. He reached for the note, and closed his hand into a fist before touching it. Instead he turned his head to read the

note as she held it out. When he finished, he took out his phone and called Yoleson. Then he ordered the guard on the door to bring the entire kitchen staff to his room for interviews. And Charlie, search this damn hotel top to bottom. If this man so much as farted in here, I want to smell it. You understand? Crane finished. Yes, Sir. Charlie said, and started issuing orders into his walkietalkie never straying from the door. Crane took Jo by the shoulders and led her gently to the chair she had been sitting in to eat breakfast. Sit down, JoAnne, he told her, and Jo sat. Yoleson will be along shortly, and then we move to somewhere a little more secure. This hotel is too open. Jo sat and laid the letter down on the table. She noticed that Crane did not sit and he was being very careful not to touch anything. Preserve the crime scene, just like a military man, never think about the girl that is right now being raped and tortured just because her eyes matched Jos. Then what he had just said finally sank in. She looked up at him. I will not give up anymore of my liberties just so you can use me for bait, Crane!! She screamed and cried at the same time. She jumped from the chair and started to pace. No! Im sick of it. You want this asshole? Then go find him! He obviously doesnt think much of your efforts so far, and frankly neither do I! No, Im going home today, and then tomorrow Im going to work. Tag along if you want. Jo stopped her pacing and began packing. Lieutenant Crane watched her in silence. The two kept to themselves until Detective Yoleson showed up. He asked all the usual questions and grilled Crane about his efforts to protect Jo. After bagging the letter and the breakfast tray he and Lieutenant Crane left to interview the kitchen staff. Jo put her packed bags by the door and fell exhausted onto the bed. She didnt know why she was waiting, but it just didnt seem right to leave without giving Lieutenant Crane the chance to follow. She had dozed and woke when her room door opened. It was Lieutenant Crane. He looked down at her bags and then up to her. Planning a trip, Miss Grast? He asked coming fully into the room. Jo sat up on the bed and checked the clock. She had been asleep for four hours. It felt more like two minutes. She was still exhausted. I told you, Lieutenant, Im going home. She rose from the bed and stepped around Crane to reach her bags. You are welcome to follow. Perhaps you should see this first, Miss Grast. He reached around her to open the door. Jo had to move out of the way as Charlie brought in a laptop and placed it on the table. He hit a key and stepped back. Jo walked

over to the table to see what appeared to be a news bulletin. The same woman from the nightly news looked out from the screen. .was found at the door of the emergency room. Her eyes had been removed and found in a cooler by her side. The woman remains in critical but stable condition at Olseana Mercy Hospital. Doctors say its too early to tell, but hope for the best. The woman has been identified as nineteen year old Megan Burst. She is a student at Olseana Community College. Her roommate reported her missing almost nine days prior to her showing up at the hospital. Police urge anyone with information to contact them at this number. A number flashed up on the screen and then the whole thing froze. Jo put a hand to her mouth. She couldnt even image what that young woman had been put through. She hadnt even realized that she had sat down until minutes later she found herself hugging Crane and crying into his stomach as he held her. What the news wasnt told, Lieutenant Crane said when Jo had quieted somewhat, Is that her eyes were surgically removed. The type of work only a Doctor is capable of. Still think Captain Jenkins has nothing to do with this? Jo shook her head in denial. She knew in her heart that Willy couldnt, and wouldnt do anything like this. I told you, Lieutenant, she said, drying her still watering eyes, Its a man named Griss. The Lieutenants hand slammed down on the table making Jo and the laptop jump. Doctor Griss is dead, Jo! He yelled at her. He died doing experiments on himself. Experiments that Captain Jenkins helped devise! The Lieutenant shut the laptop and handed it to Charlie, who hurried from the room. Crane paced the room and then stopped next to Jos chair. Jo, he said putting a hand on the back of her chair and speaking softly, I know you feel some loyalty to Willy. He can be a likable fellow, but all the evidence points at him. I have to know where he is, Jo, before another young woman gets hurt, or killed. Jo listened, really listened to Lieutenant Cranes voice. His words made sense, his voice urged trust, but her heart said he was hiding something. She remained silent. Crane heaved a heavy sigh, and walked to the door. Ill have my men start putting your house back together, Jo. Another week and it will be good as new. Until then, and he paused to wait for her to look up, If you need help cracking Captain Jenkins password, Charlie is one hell of a hacker. Jo looked accusingly at the bag that held her laptop and then up at Crane. You had no right, she hissed at him.

Actually I do, he interrupted, But I didnt. I was just playing a hunch. Good night, Miss Grast. He left Jo fuming, quietly closing the door behind him. A moment latter Charlie opened the door and stepped into the room. Miss Grast, he began and stopped to clear his throat, The Lieutenant said that you may need my help with something? Not now, Charlie, later ok? Jo waved him out of the room and sat still stunned. Jo felt lost, and in much too deep for her liking. She felt like a piece in a game she couldnt even see, let alone know how to play. She was just and aide, an executive assistant. Why was this happening to her? Looking at the clock, she saw it was just now noon, and her stomach reminded her that she had yet to have breakfast. Ignoring her growling belly she once again unpacked and sat her laptop on the table. She let it boot up while she considered what to do next. Information, she needed it, and had no idea how to get it. So she started where she always did, the internet. She pulled up every thing she could on Willy, and any one named Griss. When she saw all the sites that came to her call, she sighed. It was a good thing she had nothing better to do for a week. This much information would take months to sift through. She left her laptop, and told Charlie what she wanted for lunch. Sitting back down she began to read. Three days later and she was still just as ignorant as she had been at the beginning. Captain William Eisenhower Jenkins just simply did not exist. Nothing could be found. No birth announcements, no news articles, not even a home town. He was a ghost, a non-entity. Her search for a Doctor Griss was just as fruitless. She found a pediatrician in Wyoming, but it turned out to be a woman in her mid thirties. She didnt know Willies age, or Griss, but figured they were both well over seventy. Her lack of progress just added to her feeling of helplessness. Crane was keeping well clear of her, so she didnt even have him to yell at. She finally threw in the towel and invited Charlie in to have a crack at the CDs password. From the look in his eyes, you would have thought she had just handed him a check for a million dollars. He actually rubbed his hands together before he started typing. He talked as he typed, asking what she could remember of Willy. Did he have any sayings he used over and over again. He made her recount every story that Willy had ever told her. Made her describe Willy until she thought he could draw Willy from memory, and nothing seemed to help.

For two more days, Charlie lived at her laptop. Drinking cola and eating the most atrocious junk food. Jo for her part let him work. She stayed out of his way, and only spoke to him when he asked her a question. He loaded strange, arcane programs onto her laptop, and set them to analyzing the CD. He assured her it was just a matter of time. Near the evening of the second day, she was jerked from a nap by Charlies shout of joy. After assuring the two armed men that burst into the room that everything was ok, he showed Jo and Lieutenant Crane what his programs had managed to unlock. There are more locks, Charlie told Crane as he paged through what Charlie had unlocked. I just need a little more time. Im sure the keys are somewhere in the journals themselves. You did well, Charlie. Crane said never taking his eyes from his reading. Take a break, ok? Sure. Charlie said, still looking immensely pleased with himself. He made it as far as the bed before exhaustion claimed him and he fell onto it snoring. The text on the screen was rife with hyperlinks, only a few not prompting them to enter a password. What do you suppose that is? Jo asked as an esoteric formula popped up on the screen. Its an equation to define molecular binding. Crane told her closing the window and continuing to read. Oh, obviously, Jo countered, looking at Lieutenant Crane with a new respect. I did go to school, Miss Grast. He told her when he saw the look she was giving him. This is worthless, he continued waving at the laptop. It just talks about his preliminary research and his first years at the Navy labs. Why he found it important to record what he had for lunch everyday is beyond me. Its a journal, Crane, Jo told him, Its not supposed to make sense to anyone else. Its there to help the writer remember, not to catalog scientific knowledge. As you say, Miss Grast, Crane said, e-mailing himself a copy of the open journal pages. Notify me when Charlie unlocks the rest of it. He rose from the table and left the room with a fatherly fond look at his sleeping guard. Jo continued to read what Charlies magic had unlocked. Lieutenant Crane was right. Most of what she read made no sense to her. Willy wrote the journal assuming that whoever was reading it already knew what he was

talking about. The fact that Lieutenant Crane had left her with the CD told her that Charlie had yet to open up anything she wasnt supposed to see. On the plus side, she now had a full name to put to the mysterious Doctor Griss, Doctor Arnold Shephard Griss. It wasnt much, but at least it was something. The phone began to ring breaking Jos concentration. She smiled as she walked over to answer it. Charlie simply snorted and rolled over, never coming fully awake. Hello. She said into the handset. Jo, Susan sounded frantic, Jo, is Cody with you? Jos stomach plummeted. No, Susan, shes not. Whats wrong? Codys missing, Jo, Jo could hear the fear and tears in Susans voice. She was going to a sleep over at Tammys but she never showed up. Did you call the police? Yes, I did, but I thought. Oh, Jo, what am I going to do? Jos heart broke to hear the panic in her friends voice. Youre going to sit tight, and tell the police everything you can. Then you and the family are going to come here and wait with me. Susans only answer was sobbing. Its going to ok, Susan, Jo sobbed into the phone, Im so sorry, Susan, Im so sorry. Its not your fault, Jo. The detective is here, I have to go. Ok, but after you come straight here, ok? Sure. Susan hung up without a goodbye, and Jo sat on the edge of the bed and cried out her fear for Cody. Crane came into the room just minutes later. Im sending men over now, Miss Grast, he told her, and well make sure that Susan and her family make it here unmolested. Jo wanted to yell at him, to tell him off for bugging her phone and listening in on a family crisis. She wanted to beat him until he hurt just as much as she did, but all she did was shake her head and say thank you. Crane woke Charlie, and led the dazed man from the room leaving Jo to find what comfort she could.

V An Artists Whim

Dear Jo, Why did you send your hound after me, Jo? If you wanted to find me, all you had to do was ask. Willy found my lair, Jo. I had to leave all my pretties behind. But dont worry, Ive found another. I think you even know this one, Jo. Did Willy tell you why its you, Jo? Did he tell you about your familys little secret? Did he tell you WHAT HE DID TO ME?!!! Oh, the pain was bliss. Like a thousand beetles eating my brain. Like having my spine ripped from my body and then drug through broken glass. It was exquisite. IT WAS HELL!!!! The torture, the ecstasy, the ecstasy is torture. He made me an artist, Jo. She has your spirit, Jo. She curses me even as I explain what Im going to do her. Such fire. I think Ill make her into a master piece, Jo. All for you, my love. Your admirer

NO!!!!!!!!! Jos scream brought a small army into her room. The maid that had given her the letter screamed as she was taken roughly from the room. Jo stood in the middle of it all sobbing, the letter fallen to the floor from hands gone numb. Dont touch me! She said jerking away from the hands that tried to calm her. This isnt happening! This isnt real! Oh God, this isnt real. Jo pushed her way through the crowd and into the bathroom, where she promptly gave the toilet the contents of her stomach. When she came back to herself she realized that Susan was hugging her. They were both weeping and leaning against the bathtub, holding each other in their pain. Im sorry, Im sorry, Im sorry, Jo couldnt stop apologizing to her friend. She was once again drowning in an ocean of loss. Its not your fault, Jo. Its not your fault. Susan rocked with Jo until she had calmed. Leaving her friend Susan marched on Lieutenant Crane still in the room and issuing orders. You will find my little girl, now! Susan screamed at him. Get the whole fucking army in here, search this damn city inch by inch and find my baby!

Were the Navy, Maam. Lieutenant Crane said calmly. He rocked back from Susans full arm slap, and the room went silent as death. I dont care if youre goddamned cowboys and Indians, Susan hissed, get as many men on the streets as you can and find my little girl. We are doing everything humanly possible, Maam. Crane said, rubbing the cheek which bore an imprint of Susans hand. More men will just get in the way. Odds are hes not even in the city. Susan advanced and Crane took a step back before holding his ground. Susan aimed another slap at him, but the Lieutenant caught her wrist. She didnt pay it any attention as she brought her face inches from his. Odds are you dont know what the hell youre doing. She cried. This man has been making a fool of you from the start! So I suggest you try something different, Lieutenant, because if this freak harms my little girl there will be hell to pay, and Ill be sending you the bill! Lieutenant Crane stepped back and released Susans wrist to wipe spittle from his face. Charlie, he said turning to the soldier sitting in front of Jos laptop. Keep up on that journal. Charlie nodded and went back to work. Alex, Crane turned to a guard by the door, Please get a doctor in here for Missus Holen and Miss Grast. They may need medication for shock. Sir! Alex saluted and left the room. Crane turned back to face Susan, and looked past her shoulder as Jo emerged from the bathroom. I will keep both of you abreast of what we find. Ladies. Crane left the room ushering everyone but Charlie and the two women out of the room. Her bravado fled and grief taking over, Susan sank to the floor. It was now Jos turn to comfort her friend. She held Susan while she cried her grief out, reassuring her that Cody would be found. Jo held no hope that Cody would be unharmed, but prayed that she would be found alive. Killing you is not the worst he could do. The lieutenants words kept playing over and over in Jos mind. Help her, Willy, Jo prayed silently, Please, God let her be alive.

Look at this. Charlie said from the table, breaking Jos silent musing. It had been three days since Griss had sent his letter, and Charlie had barely slept. He was working so hard that Jo didnt have the heart to tell him she didnt care. She rose from the bed and went to read over his shoulder.

I think its a family tree. Charlie told her. Jo read, and agreed with him. Then something strange caught her eye. That was her mothers name, and there, her father. It took Jo a stunned minute to realize exactly what she reading. Hes my uncle. She whispered in disbelief. Damn it, Willy, why didnt you just tell me? I made my own uncle sleep in a shed. Jo felt hysterics trying to take over. Surely that wasnt her giggling like that. It must be, Charlie was looking back at her like he was seeing a mad woman, and Jo took a tight reign on her emotions. It may explain why Doctor Griss has targeted you, Maam. Charlie told her. Jo patted his shoulder, not trusting herself to keep from laughing. I also sent those equations off to a friend of mine. Charlies tone had changed and now he looked around, as if unsure that they were alone. He motioned Jo to bend closer. She said that they didnt make any sense. He whispered into her ear. From what she was able to decipher, Doctor Jenkins and Doctor Griss were working on a chemical compound to alter DNA. She doesnt even know if it will work without killing whoever takes it. Jo stood up and looked down at Charlie. She had thought that Crane had planted him to keep an eye on her, but now she wasnt sure. Making a quick decision to trust Charlie she went to the briefcase that Willy had left her and took out the folder of papers. Maybe these will help. She said handing the folder to Charlie. He opened the folder and quickly leafed through the papers. Letting out a low whistle he tucked the folder, papers and all under his shirt. If youll excuse me, Miss, he said getting up and winking at Jo, I think I need to clear my head a bit. Ill be walking around if anyone asks. Jo felt an empty feeling in the pit of her stomach. She hoped she had guessed right in trusting Charlie. It was too late now. She gave him a weak smile and he squeezed her arm on his way out the door. When Charlie left she sat down at the laptop to peruse the new entries that Charlie had unlocked. She was thinking about ordering lunch when Stan and Susan came into her room. They didnt say anything, just turned on the television. found in an old barn outside of town. The newswoman was saying. Police now have a description of the man they believe to be behind the rash of abductions. The three women were found scared, but unharmed and they were taken to Olseana Mercy Hospital. All three were treated for minor cuts and bruises and then released.

A sketch of a man in his Forties popped up on the screen. He had wide eyes, and a prominent nose. A full head of hair cut short, and a scar down his left cheek. Jo knew that this was Doctor Griss. To her the sketch was that of the Devil, and it made her sick just to look at it. This is a sketch made by a police sketch artist from the victims description. If you see this man, do not try to apprehend him, as he is considered armed and dangerous, if you see him contact the Olseana police department at this number. Hopefully the weather has better news for us, Dave? Susan turned the set off, as Dave apologized that the weather was looking just as grim. Well? Susan asked turning to Jo. Jo stared at her friend confused, not understanding what it was she was being asked. Susan picked up on her friends confusion. Have you ever seen him before? Um, No, Jo said, trying to collect her wits. Susan Im sorry, but Jo stopped mid sentence as Susan spun without saying a word and walked out of the room. Jo looked helplessly at Stan. Sorry, Jo, Stan shrugged his apology, Shes been under a lot of strain lately. She doesnt blame you. Shes just worried. Im worried too, Jo felt tears escaping her eyes, I didnt ask for this, Stan. I didnt wake up one day and say, Gee, I hope some madman steals my Godchild to rape and molest, and, and, and, Jo broke down completely. Stan held her while she tried to pull herself back together. Hang in there, Jo. Stan was saying. Ive got my hands full with, Susan. I need you to be strong, ok? Jo nodded into his chest, getting her emotions under control. Yea, she sniffled at him. He pushed her back to arms length and tilted his head to look her in the eyes. Ok? Yea, she nodded, and wiped her nose on her sleeve. Oh, Hey, she said remembering what she had been doing before the two of them had interrupted her. Look at this. She led him over to the laptop and showed him the family tree, explaining that Willy the bum and Doctor Jenkins were the same man, and her uncle to boot. I dont understand, Jo, Stan said, How could you not know before this? Jo sighed and swallowed a sharp retort. The truth was she had been asking herself the same question. She gave him the same answer she had given herself.

I never knew his full name before all of this started, Stan. And when I did learn it, I was a little too preoccupied to make the connection. So what does this mean? I dont know. Jo shrugged. It may be why Griss has targeted me. If we can just learn what relationship Willy had to Griss, we could make an educated guess. Stan put both his hands on Jos shoulders. Why dont we not tell Susan about this, Ok, Jo? He asked looking down at her. She has enough on her plate right now. Jo reached up to squeeze his hand. I just feel so helpless, Stan. Jo complained. Crane has us locked up so tight I cant even blink without him finding out about it. If I could just get out there, at least trying to find this asshole would be something to do. Do you remember when you and Susan snuck into my bachelors party? He said giving her shoulders a squeeze. Jo let out a grunting laugh. Yea. Susan was so worried that thered be strippers there. We almost killed ourselves climbing up those balconies. The memory fled as what she had just said hit home. The balconies! But this hotel doesnt have any balconies, Stan. No, he said moving over to the window, But it does have windows that open. He demonstrated by opening and closing the window. Jo got up to join him. And a Forty foot drop to the ground. She said looking down. Bed sheets are ten feet long, corner to corner. Stan said casually, walking to the door. I dont know about yours but our room is too damn cold. I had to order extra blankets and sheets. See ya, Jo. He left Jo staring at her bed clothes, considering where the best anchor point would be.

VI When Children Cry

Dear Jo, This childs spirit is magnificent. She curses me like a sailor, demanding that I let her go. Its art, Jo pure art, bringing this childs spirit to bay. Her pitiful cries as I carve her spirit into her flesh. But why should I describe it? Why not let her. Mommy, he told me to write this. He said he wouldnt cut me if I do. He wants me to tell you about all the bad things Ive done. He wont let me go to the bathroom, except in a bucket. He makes me touch myself, mommy. He watches and makes me. Please dont be mad at me, mommy. He makes me. Please dont be ashamed. He makes me touch him too, and put him in my mouth. He says Im supposed to like it when hes on top of me, but I dont, mommy honest I dont. Please, mommy, please dont hate me. I love you, mommy. Please help me. Please.

Your admirer And Cody Goddamn it!!! Jo threw down the tear and blood stained letter. This one had arrived with her daily courier. She hadnt even found it until hours after he had left. When she saw the familiar writing, her heart sank. She was sure that he would be describing Codys death. As she read the letter, anger replaced dread. When she had finished all she could feel was rage. Anything close to hand and not bolted down went flying around the room, as Jo vented her rage. The television flew into the opposite wall, and crushed the night stand lamps as it fell with a satisfying crash. The table had already upended, but the chairs were still in place. One of those went flying through the window, and Jo would have followed it if Charlie hadnt rushed in and caught her.

Let me go! Jo screamed at him, but he just tightened his bear hug. Let me go! I cant take anymore! Let me go! Jo looked up to see Crane and company enter the room, followed closely by Susan and Stan. Dont let her read that! Jo screamed, reaching out as Susan bent to retrieve the letter. Stan!! But Stan and Crane were both too slow. Susan danced out of arms reach and locked herself in the bathroom. Stan ran to the door and rattled the doorknob, all the while banging on the door and yelling for Susan to come out. Over the din and confusion Jo heard Susans wail. It started low, and rose through the register to end in a banshee shriek of rage. Jo heard the bathroom mirror break, and the shower curtain come down. Stan put his shoulder to the door and broke it down. He just managed to stop Susan as she rushed Crane, brandishing a large sliver of broken mirror in her bloodied hand. Stan had to struggle to hold on to her and keep himself from getting cut as she slashed at anything and anyone in her blind rage. Her face was contorted and animal like in her despair and anger. Jo sank to her knees, weeping, bringing Charlie down with her. She couldnt block out Susans wordless moaning, and it followed her into darkness. Shes fine. Just let her breathe. Jo came back to herself still on the floor and being supported by Charlie. Looking across the room she saw Susan sitting on the edge of the bed. She stared blankly as a uniformed guard bandaged her hand. She couldnt see Stan until a group of men lifted him onto an impromptu litter, Susans makeshift knife protruding from the side of his chest. Oh my God. Jos hand flew to her mouth. Stan! Hes still alive. Charlie assured her. But we have to get him to a hospital. Can you stand? Jo shook her head yes, and Charlie let her go, helping her to her feet. Jo watched as they rushed Stan from the room, and then went to sit by Susan. I killed him, Jo. Susan said, turning her head to stare wildly at Jo. Shes going to be ok, now. I killed him. Jo choked back a sob and put her arms around her friend. Yes you did, baby, Jo whispered through her tears, You did good. Susan looked blankly around the room. Wheres Stan, Jo? He should be here. Jo let her tears fall and she didnt say anything, not trusting her voice enough to answer. Susans mad red eyes met Jos. I killed him. She said again, almost like she was asking Jo to make her believe. A man in an EMT uniform entered the room and knelt in front

of Susan. He unwrapped her bandaged hand, and Susan once again watched with a blank stare as she was being tended. Its deep. The man said looking up at Jo. Shell need stitches. Jo nodded her head and helped the man get Susan off the bed and heading for the door. I killed him, Jo. Susan said as they led her from the room. Did you see? I killed him. Lieutenant Crane held Jo back as the EMT led Susan away. She had to cover her sobbing with both hands as Susan kept looking back to assure Jo that she had killed him. Its called a psychotic break, Miss Grast. It happens when, oooffff! Cranes explanation was cut short as Jos elbow found his solar plexus. I know how it happens, you bastard. Jo told him coldly slamming the door on his gasps. Alone in the wreckage of her room Jo sank to the floor. She cried herself to sleep, curled up with her back to the door. Miss Grast? Miss Grast? JoAnne! Jo came awake as the door was forced open, pushing her along the ground. Charlie came in with his pistol drawn, looking like he was ready to kill. When he saw Jo on the ground he holstered his weapon and knelt down to check on her. Are you all right? He asked and helped her to her feet as she assured him she was fine. Lieutenant Crane and Detective Yoleson came in as soon as Jo was on her feet. Detective Yoleson surveyed the damage to the room and shot a narrow eyed look at Crane. Miss Grast, Detective Yoleson said, do you need medical attention? Shes fine, Detective. Crane told him. Jo shot him an angry look. Im fine, Detective Yoleson. She echoed. Yoleson looked from Jo to Crane. Jo felt a tension between the two that went beyond professional rivalry. Miss Grast, Yoleson turned to Jo, would you like some dinner? She eats in her Crane started and cut himself off when Jo cleared her throat. Yes, Detective, I would like dinner. Shall we? She started to lead Yoleson from the room. Charlie, Crane turned to Charlie, You and Alex escort the Detective and Miss Grast. Yes, Sir. Charlie said, and pushed ahead of Jo and the Detective to gather up Alex. They were waiting for the pair in the hall. Jo shot Crane an

irritated look, which he returned with a raised eyebrow. Holding her tongue she led Yoleson from the room, and along with her escort, down to the restaurant. When they arrived Charlie peeled off to the kitchens, leaving Alex alone with the pair. Alex, Jo said as she and Yoleson took a seat in the booth where Willy had met her. We wish to dine alone, please. Alex simply nodded and steeped just out of ear shot, constantly scanning the dinning room. Jo and Yoleson exchanged small talk until a hotel worker delivered their dinner, and left. Charlie joined Alex after he caught Jos eye and she nodded that everything was fine. Your room is a wreck. Yoleson told her, cutting into his steak. Jo took a sip of the wine that had come with the dinner and nodded. I lost my temper. Im sorry about the damage. If youll send me the bill, Ill make arrangements to pay for it. Yoleson snorted and had to cover his mouth as he almost choked on his steak. Not our bill anymore, Miss Grast. He told her when he could speak again. D.O.D. took over. Its their problem now. Jo smiled at him. He looked immensely pleased about any discomfort he could give Crane. So youre not working the case anymore? Jo found that she had been drinking more than she had been eating and tried to correct it. Not officially. Yoleson said, and lowered his voice, casting a nervous glance at Charlie and Alex. Weve been following, Doctor Jenkins. Or I should say, hes been allowing us to follow him. The mans a ghost when he wants to be. I have no idea how he does it at his age. Jo was taken aback by the news. Hes alright? She asked the Detective. Yoleson nodded around another bite of his dinner. Yea, interesting old man, our Doctor Jenkins. You want to trade? Jo looked confused for a moment. She didnt think he was talking about food. Tears filled her eyes when it finally dawned on her what he was talking about. I got another letter. She began. The bastard, the, he Jo stopped and took a deep breath. He made Cody write part of the letter. He made her tell us what he was doing to her. She couldnt think. She kept reading the letter over and over again in her mind. She reached out for her wine and found the glass empty. Yoleson pushed his across the table for her. She took it in a shaky hand and nodded her thanks. When she could continue, she related what had happened afterward. Her voice was matter of fact. She tried to ignore the memories clamoring for her attention. She couldnt hear her own voice,

only Susans wail and her insane litany of how she had killed her little girls torturer. When she finished, and her eyes again focused on Yoleson, he had pushed his plate aside, no longer able to eat. Im sorry, JoAnne. Detective Yoleson said, forgetting to use her honorific. Im so very sorry. He looked up at the ceiling and his eyes glazed over. I didnt have to take this case, you know? I could have stayed at the desk. Jo didnt know how to respond, and felt it was unnecessary. Yoleson got his demons under control and his attention returned to Jo. My turn then? Were close, Miss Grast. He leaned his elbows on the table and dropped his voice. Doctor Jenkins has been leading us around the fringes of the city. Hes the reason we were able to save those three young girls. So far weve found three of his hideouts. Missy, God bless her, is a fucking genius. She takes what she can of the evidence, and leaves the rest for Cranes men. The bastard has gotten smart though. Hes having us followed, so when we find a hideout, his men are right behind us. I think were only a couple of days behind him, Miss Grast. The news did little to lighten Jos heart. Griss still had Cody. Why are you telling me all this? She asked him. Doctor Jenkins sent a message for you. This shocked Jo, and now she too leaned into the conversation. I only understand part of it, so Ill give it word for word. Yoleson cleared his throat and looked around once more. Dont trust Crane. Youre not safe. Keep that package close. Get away, Ill find you. The Detective looked Jo in the eye, waiting to see if any of Willys cryptic message made sense. Jos mind raced, trying to find the hidden meaning in Willys message. I think I understand. She said slowly. Yoleson looked his question at her. Im not sure, Detective. Ill have to work on it. Yoleson looked displeased, but held his tongue. Jo was remembering Willy talking about a family vacation in one of his journal entries. Jo didnt remember the occasion, but it talked about how she had wandered off, and how Willy had found her. What she didnt understand, was how this applied to anything. She needed to get back to her room. If youll excuse me, Detective, she said getting up from the booth. Im feeling rather tired. The Detective rose and said he understood. They said their goodbyes and Jo followed her escorts back up to her room. When she opened the door to her room, she saw Crane seated at the righted table and reading Willys

journal from her laptop. He looked up when he heard her enter, and closed the laptop. I hope you had a nice evening. He said. Im not telling you anything, Crane. She told him, taking her bags from the closet and beginning to pack. Lieutenant Crane watched her for a moment, and then moved to the door. Thats obstruction, Miss Grast. He said quietly from the doorway. Jo stopped her packing and looked him in the eye. So take me to jail. She said just as calmly. Until then, Ill be sharing a room with Melinda. Make the arrangements. Without waiting for him to reply, she went back to her packing. Crane stood in the doorway, considering her for a moment longer, before going out. Jo heard him talking to Charlie, but tuned it out as she went around the room gathering her things. She would have to abandon her extra sheets, but those wouldnt be hard to replace. Just as she was finishing up, Charlie led two armed men in to gather her bags. Weve already moved Melinda, Miss Grast. He told her. Shes pretty shaken up. Jo and Melindas new room was just down the hall. It had two big beds, and other than being just a little larger, was set up like her old room. Melinda was waiting and ran into Jos arms when she entered. Jo hugged the weeping girl to her, stroking her hair, and trying to calm her. Charlie and the two men set down her bags, and then excused themselves. Why, Aunt Jo, Melinda sobbed when they had left. Why is this happening? Jo hugged her tighter. I dont know, Sweetie, I dont know. Jo lost track of time, and couldnt say how long they stood there like that. When Melinda had calmed down they moved to the beds. Jo hadnt seen any of Melindas things, and asked her about them. Ive unpacked already. Melinda told her. Pack it all back up, dear. Jo told her. Melinda looked confused but did as she was told. Jo unpacked her laptop and set it up on the table. After it had booted she opened the journal and tried to find the entry she had remembered. There it was, just as she remembered, the line I found her underlined. She clicked on the link, and was immediately asked for a password. Jo sighed, wishing that just once something could be easy. Whats that? Melinda asked from behind her. Jo looked back and saw that Melindas bags now rested next to Jos. I dont know yet, dear, She told her, Im hoping its answers.

Jo spent the rest of the night trying to guess the password needed to get into the rest of the entry. Melinda fell asleep watching an old war movie. Jo finally gave it up and opened the door. Alex was on duty, and she asked that Charlie be sent in. When Charlie arrived, bleary eyed, and holding his perpetual can of cola, she showed him what she wanted and he set to work.

VII Puppy Dog Tails

Dear Jo, Shes wonderful. None of my pretties have ever lasted this long. Shes so beautiful, Jo. Her body is almost healed now, but her mind, oh, her beautiful mind. Thats just starting to open up to me. She made her first kill, Jo her first real kill. Im so proud of her. But why should I go on? She can tell it just as well as I. Ive killed. At first I didnt want to. He locked me up and starved me. He put small animals in with me, just me the animals, and my knife. Yes, he gave me a knife. I tried to kill him with it. I failed. I tried to kill myself with it. He healed me, and then beat me for almost ruining his artwork. Rape is now, almost a nightly event. Sometimes I crave it. Its no longer an effective form of punishment. But hunger, that works. Ive ate rats, rabbits, cats, dogs. There isnt much left I havent eaten. He starved me for a week and then put a little girl in with me. She was five years old. Her name was Kristen Early. I held out as long as I could. Then I rocked her to sleep and cut her throat. She died fast. Ive had two more little ones since then. I didnt ask them their names. I simply killed them as soon as they were put in with me. To keep them from suffering, thats what I used to tell myself. I no longer use that excuse. I like killing. There is a savage joy that comes with the taking of a life. Im beyond saving, mother. Please, just forget about me. I will always love you. Cody You see, Jo? Do you see? Its been fascinating watching her mind turn. Watching her weep as she ate those children, Ive come to think of her as a daughter. Our daughter, Jo. Have you found out why, Jo? Why you? Ill tell you, Jo. Because of WHAT HE DID TO ME!!! I thank him. I love him, just as much as I hate him. Im lonely, Jo so lonely. I want someone, someone just like me. I need to talk to someone that understands. I know you can be that someone, Jo. Try, Jo. Try hard; our daughters life may depend on it.

Your admirer Jo sat on the toilet, trying to keep her weeping as silent as she could. She didnt want to let Melinda know that anything was wrong. She couldnt let her read what her sister had written. Aunt Jo? Melinda called, knocking on the door. Are you ok? Jo stuffed a fist in her mouth to further quiet her sobs. Aunt Jo? Youre scaring me! Melindas knocking became more urgent. Im fine, Jo said weakly, Im fine. Ill be out in a minute. Aunt Jo, are you crying? Open the door, Aunt Jo. Melinda rattled the door again. Damn it, Melinda I said Ill be a minute! Jo yelled. The knocking stopped, and Jo tried to collect herself. For three months they had been the guests of Lieutenant Crane, but after two months, and no letters, even he had to admit defeat. Melinda had moved in with Jo, and the two tried to put their lives back together. Stan hadnt survived Susans mirror knife, and Susan herself hadnt really survived. Melinda and Jo went to the institution every weekend to visit her. She still told Jo that she had killed him. Jo would agree and tell her that she had done a good thing. They would bring Susan things from her life, trying to bring her out of her stupor, but nothing seemed to work. So Jo made her room as comfortable as she could. Pictures of her family were placed all around the room. Her favorite quilt folded at the foot of the bed. Jo held out hope that her friend would recover. Willy had vanished, and Jo hoped that he too was alright. Detective Yoleson phoned from time to time to check in, and tell her that nothing new had turned up, meaning that he also hadnt seen or heard from Willy. There was good that came out of all of it, though. Melinda and Charlie had become fast friends. Jo encouraged Melinda to go out on dates with Charlie, but she preferred to stay in. Jo wondered if she would ever willingly leave the house alone. For a year now they had tried to live their lives as normally as they could and now this. Jo felt the familiar nightmare enfold her once more in its cold desperate arms. A year of believing that Cody was dead, a year that she could have been searching. Jo felt sick at the thought of Cody being in that monsters control all this time. Jo heard the doorknob rattle once more as Melinda opened the lock with an ice pick, and came into the bathroom.

Aunt Jo? She said weakly, dropping the pick and rushing to embrace Jo. What is it? Whats wrong? Is it Mother? Is she alright? All Jo could do is hug her tighter as her sobbing rendered her speechless. Call Charlie. Jo told her when she was able to speak again. Please, Melinda, just call Charlie. Tell him to come over. Melinda looked puzzled and silent tears streaked her face, but she did as she was told. Jo reread the letter when she was alone again. It was streaked with blood and tears. She made a promise to Cody. She promised that she would never leave her again. Jo took the letter and went down to the kitchen to wait at the table. She set the letter down and put on a pot of coffee. Melinda hung up the phone in the living room and came into the kitchen to join Jo and wait for Charlie. Its starting again, isnt it Aunt Jo? Melinda eyed the letter as she and Jo sat at the table. Jo grimaced into her coffee, and nodded that yes it was starting again. Melinda reached out to read the letter, but stopped when Jo shook her head. Its not something you want to know, Melinda. Jo said weakly. Its not something I want to know. Melinda drew back her hand. Crossing her arms in front of her she leaned back in her chair and frowned at the letter. Two cups of coffee later Melinda rose to answer the door bell. Charlie came into the kitchen followed closely by Lieutenant Crane and Melinda. Jo frowned up at Crane. Just couldnt keep him out of it, eh Charlie? Charlie looked guiltily at the ground. Crane sat down and read over the letter. Looks like it wasnt over after all, Miss Grast, he told her setting down the letter. Jo didnt say anything, not trusting her temper. Crane took out his phone and told whoever answered to assemble the team and meet him at the house. This time you stay here, Miss Grast. We have men in the house at all times, and you do not leave. Do we understand each other, Miss Grast? This was simply too much, much too much for Jo. Get a warrant, a court order, whatever it takes, but until then you will leave, Lieutenant, you are not welcome in my home. Jo stared coldly at Crane. He met her eyes for a moment and then nodded and rose. Ill get right on that, Miss Grast. He was making calls as he left. Charlie had tried his best to shrink into nothing during the whole exchange, but Jo hadnt forgotten him. She rounded on him just as soon as Crane left. Melinda wisely chose to look in the fridge for something, anything. How could you, Charlie? Jo said raising a finger and shaking it at him. How dare you bring that man back here!

I didnt have a choice, Miss Grast. Charlie told her finally looking up. Jo, we were on a case when Melinda called. It was either bring him, or wait another day. Melinda sounded frantic, Jo, I couldnt wait. Jo shot a look toward Melinda, who was carefully studying the contents of the refrigerator. Jo sighed. I guess that was my fault. She said finally, sitting down next to Charlie. Charlie reached out and clasped one of her hands. What now, Charlie? We wait. He told her, giving her hand a squeeze. Youre the only link the Lieutenant has to Doctor Griss. Now we wait and hope he makes a mistake. Jo let a wry laugh escape. Yea, because that has worked so well for us before. She rose and picked up the letter. You should probably take this to your lab. Maybe you can tell something from it. Charlie shook his head no. No, Miss Grast. Im not leaving you two alone. Well just wait until the Lieutenant gets what ever paperwork he needs. Jo nodded and folded the letter and put it in her pocket. The last thing she wanted was that thing lying around for Melinda to read. How did he deliver it this time? I found it in the towel closet. I was getting ready to take a shower and it fell out of the towel I grabbed. Charlie sat and thought. Look, its late, and I still need a shower. You two lock up, Ill see you in the morning. Jo left the two young people and went upstairs to complete her nightly ritual. Her mind wouldnt let her rest however, and she spent most of the night tossing and turning. Around midnight she heard Crane return. She just grunted and rolled over. Morning would be soon enough to deal with him. Miss Grast, Its Willy. Jo came suddenly awake. A hand was covering her mouth, and a face was so close she could smell sour breath. She started to struggle but the hand tightened and the voice became more urgent. Damn it, settle down. The voice hissed into her ear. Its Willy, Miss Grast. Just Willy. Ok? Wuully? She mumbled through the fingers covering her mouth. She settled down and waited. Willy cautiously let her go, and she sat up in bed. Willy went to the window to look out. Willy, where have you been? She whispered to his back. Willy turned to look at her.

Ive been a guest of Tier Electronics for over a year, Miss Grast. Look, I dont have time to explain. Youre in danger, and you need to come with me. Jo sat and stared at Willy, trying to come to grips with her confusion. Willy went to her closet and started to throw some clothes into a bag. Willy, are you alright? Jo asked cautiously. No, Miss Grast, Willy said continuing his hasty packing. Im underfed and wholly pissed off. He turned to look at her. We dont have time to talk about this now, Miss Grast, he said moving over to the bed and urging her out. We have to leave. Tiers goons are crawling all over this house. Cranes with the D.O.D., Willy. Jo told him, her confusion clouding her thinking. Willy stopped dead, and snorted. Is that what he told you? He grabbed her elbow and led her to her bedroom door. He opened it and peeked out. I dont have time for a full explanation, Miss Grast but Im not just a handyman. Youll just have to trust me for now, ok? Willy, I know youre not just a handyman. Jo told the back of his head. You were a scientist doing research for the Navy, and now Doctor Griss is stalking me because of it. It was all in your journal. Willy closed the door and turned to her slowly. What journal, Miss Grast? Jo was starting to become frightened. Had Willy finally became senile? A year ago you gave me your journal, Willy, a CD that I couldnt get into. You gave it to me at the hotel restaurant, with a gun and a folder of equations I didnt understand. She searched Willys face in the dark, trying to see if any of this was making sense to him. Miss Grast, a year ago, Tier Electronics arrested me in your tool shed. I havent seen you since. Ive been locked in a little white room while they tried to get me to explain my research to them. Whoever you met with wasnt me. Willy once again cracked the door open. When he seemed satisfied he opened the door fully and motioned for Jo to follow. I cant leave without Melinda. Jo hissed at him, moving out of her room and tiptoeing down the hall. Willy followed her, constantly looking over his shoulder. Jos mind finally cleared as what she was about to do came clear. Willy almost bumped into her, and he looked up at her in annoyance. Willy, are you my uncle? Jo asked. Willy hung his head, and tears filled his eyes.

Miss Grast, he said, reaching up to stroke her cheek with a calloused hand, Jo. Yes, Im your uncle. Im sorry, at first I couldnt tell you, and later. Well, later, it was Willy the bum you trusted, not Uncle Willy. Jo clasped Willys hand to her cheek. It felt right. The first thing about this whole damn mess that felt right, felt true. Ok, Uncle Willy, I trust you. Willy nodded fighting back tears he didnt have time to shed. Jo opened Melindas door and went inside. She quietly started packing a bag she grabbed out of Melindas closet. Melinda snored lightly, not even tossing in her sleep. When she had finished she set the bag next to hers and went to the bed to wake Melinda. Melinda, dear, wake up. Jo said, gently shaking the girl. Wha? Aunt Jo, what is it? Melinda was still bleary eyed and confused. Shhh. Keep your voice down. Get up, were leaving. Melinda sat up and looked at the clock. Its two oclock in the morning, Aunt Jo. Melinda complained. Were leaving, Melinda. Jo told her, pulling Melinda gently out of bed. Now get dressed and lets go. Melinda looked at Jo standing there in her pajamas and grabbed a pair of jeans off the floor. Oh, right. Jo said, and hurried to her room to dress herself. Melinda and Willy joined her as she finished tying the laces on her sneakers. Hurry. Willy told her from the door. Jo got up from the bed and joined the two of them. They walked down the hall and Willy crept out of the open window. He turned when he was out and put a finger to his lips, then disappeared. Jo heard him hit the ground. She pushed Melinda toward the window, and passed the bags to her. This way. Willy said when Jos feet hit the ground in her back yard. Willy led them through the dark back yard, every one holding hands. Behind the tool shed that Willy had called home, he moved aside a section of fence. Stepping through he motioned the women to do the same. After replacing the section of fence he had moved, he grabbed Jos hand and led them through a maze of backyards, and fast street crossings. Jo thought that they might walk all night, but Willy stopped them in front of a silver car, and opened the door. Your car, ladies. He told them, holding the door open for Jo to enter. When the women had been seated, Willy got in the drivers seat and drove them out of town. Everyone remained quiet, Jo and Melinda because they were scared, Willy because he was constantly watching to see if they were being followed. An hour out of the city Willy turned the car down a dirt road and a half an hour later stopped by a small concrete shed, hidden by

trees, and almost impossible to make out. Willy told them to get out and wait, he drove the car into the trees and a minute later was opening the door of the shed. When they were all crowded inside, Willy switched on a camping lantern. The shed was dry and dusty, and very cramped. Jo hoped that they werent going to be spending too much time in it. Willy, where are we? Jo asked him. Melinda squealed as a bug dropped from the ceiling. Jo calmly stepped on it, and shot Melinda a furious look, her heart pounding in her throat. That isnt helping, Melinda. Jo relented when she saw the tears leaking down Melindas cheeks. The girl was frightened and totally out of her element. She hugged an arm around Melindas shoulder and gave her a small squeeze. Its a tunnel outlet, uhgn, Willy was in one corner and tugging on a small door set in the floor. Tier used to keep an underground research facility out here, oof. Damn door! Willy looked around the small room. Other than a set of metal shelves against one wall, there wasnt anything there. He walked over to the shelves, and began to rummage around the garbage. I thought I had left a, yes, here it is. He said triumphantly holding up a rusty oil can, his eyes smiling as much as his face. He went back to the door and applied the oil to the hinges. With a last curse and a mighty tug, the steel door creaked open. Wait here. Willy took the lantern down the hole with him. The room was plunged into darkness, except for the glow coming from the open trap door. Ok, come on down. Willys voice floated up to them. The women carefully made their way to the trap door. Steel rungs had been built into the smooth concrete wall. Willy was looking up at them from a fifteen foot drop. Jo sighed, and without warning dropped hers and Melindas bags down the hole. Willy cursed her, but managed to dodge them. The ladder ended in a concrete tunnel that went off in both directions. It smelled damp and dusty and dead mice and bugs had collected in the creases where the walls met the floor, along with miscellaneous debris. Pipes attached to the ceiling ran on into darkness, and Jo noticed that most the lights appeared to be broken. This way. Willy told them, heading off into the tunnel. They were forced to follow or be left in the dark.

VIII The Best Laid Plans

The old man left and took the prize. Sweep the porch. Odin Mack McGregor reread the note Wilma had handed him. He wanted to empty his stomach right there on the desk. He knew it had been a mistake. He had told Odin several times to stop the experiment, and now it could all blow up in their faces. Wilma, start cleaning. He told her crumpling the note in his hand. Wilma nodded and went to the file cabinet behind him. She opened the top drawer and started taking key files out of it. She soon had a small pile on top of the cabinet. When youre done, let the others know. Mack rose from behind his desk, his mind racing as he made plans. Ive got to go to a meeting. Wilma simply nodded and continued taking files from the cabinet.

The rooms that Willy had led them to were relatively clean, and the cots at least comfortable enough to let them finish the night. When Jo came awake again, it took her a moment to remember where she was. According to Willys quick explanation, they were only twenty miles out of the city. Tier, it seemed, was not what she had thought it was. This used to be a research facility. The very one Willy had worked at. He had foreseen this possibility when he figured out what it was he was working on, and prepared for his eventual flight over thirty years ago. Jo still didnt know exactly what was going on, but Willy had promised a full explanation in the morning. Well, it was now morning. She left her small room, and went into the larger common room. The suite was set up like a fancy hotel. A common room with a kitchen and sitting room, four bedrooms led off from it. Showers and bathrooms down the hall on the right, and a lab facility opposite. Area rugs decorated the concrete floor, and helped to trap what warmth there was. The furniture was old, but still comfortable. An overstuffed couch and overstuffed easy chairs

sat around a generous coffee table. The dining area was separated from the rest of the room by the couch, and contained a table and chairs that wouldnt look out of place in any trailer in America. Jo joined Willy at the dining table. Good morning, She told him. He looked up and smiled at her. Afternoon actually, he said. He rose and filled a cup of coffee for her and sat back down. Jo took a sip of her coffee. It was bitter, and she made a face at it. Willy, she began setting her coffee down, whats going on? Willy took a sip of his coffee and appeared to be thinking. Maybe it would be easier if you told me whats been happening since I was taken. He told her finally. Jo didnt like that answer but saw no use in arguing the point. So she started from the morning she found the first letter. Willy stopped her, asking questions and nodding at her answers, as if things were becoming clear for him. When she was about finished she remembered that she still had one of the letters in her pocket and handed it across the table to her uncle. Her uncle, she smiled at the thought. After being so long with out a family, it felt good to think of Willy as part of what she had given up for lost. Willy looked carefully over the note as she finished. She thought that he had stopped listening. Its the same person. He said lifting his coffee to take a sip. It took a minute for Jo to understand what he was telling her. When she understood she leapt up and went to look over his shoulder. You see how the y and the j underline the whole word, he told her pointing out the letters, and the e has a sharp upward slant. Whoever wrote it may have used a different hand, but it was the same person that wrote the whole thing. The blood drained from Jos face and her knees went weak. Jo had to hang on to the back of Willys chair to hold herself up. Willy got out of his chair, and gently set a stunned Jo in it. Fake, Jo whispered, the whole thing was fake? Willy took a seat next to her. I dont know, he told her, Ive only the one letter to go by, but its a fake, or at least a deception. Tears began to run down Jos face as the implications sank in. But I saw you at the hotel, Willy. I saw you. She turned to look at Willy. You said you didnt recognize him at first, Jo. It wasnt me, I promise. Willy took one of Jos hands in his. Tell me what he looked like.

He looked like you! Exactly like you! She said, but then took a very good look at Willy. His nose was different, not much, but different. Willys hair was silver, and when she cast her mind back she remembered the fake Willys hair was powder white. She told Willy about the differences. That could be Arnie, Willy told her after thinking about it for a moment. We used to play pranks on our staff by switching places. Every one has a look alike, Jo. He told her as she looked at him in disbelief. Well, at least I do, Doctor Arnold Griss. He used to have a brilliant mind. Willys eyes misted over as he lost himself to memory. Jo just couldnt take in what she was hearing. Her mind went blank. They sat in silence, both dealing with their own personal demons. Melinda came in, rubbing sleep from her eyes. She took in Jo and Willy sitting at the table and staring off into space. You two look like someone shot your dogs. She told them. Jo came back to herself, and removed her hand from Willys. Right now I want a glass of orange juice, some toast, and some explanations. No juice. Willy told her as she started to rummage around the cabinets. She gave him the evil eye, and poured herself some coffee. No toast either. Well, great! Melinda said flinging a hand into the air. I suppose I dont get an explanation either. She sat down heavily in a chair and took a sip of coffee. She spit the coffee back into her cup and stared accusingly at Willy. Youre here because Jo didnt want to leave you behind. Willy said, taking a sip of his coffee and looking her in the eye. She grimaced and looked down at her own cup. And after what Jo has told me, I cant blame her. Jo put a hand on Willys wrist and then considered Melinda. She came to a decision and told Melinda what Willy had told her. Melinda pushed her cup aside and read the letter that Jo passed to her. She shuddered when she finished, and looked up at Jo. Then Dad didnt have to die? She whispered, tears leaking down her face. Mom didnt have to go insane? Codys alive! Why, Aunt Jo? Who would do this? Jo went around the table to calm the hysterical girl. She didnt know how to answer those questions, and had started to feel helpless herself. Jo looked up toward the door when she heard a noise. There was man in hunters gear holding a rifle. Jo screamed and threw Melindas coffee at the man. He dodged, but the man behind him wasnt fast enough. The cup

bounced off his forehead, and Jo saw his eyes roll up as he crumpled to the ground. Jo, stop! Willy had rushed to place himself between Jo and the intruders. Theyre friends of mine. I told them we would be here. Jo stopped her screaming and took a good look at the man bending down to help his buddy. He had a rugged good look to him, a strong jaw and broad shoulders. A hunters camo cap covered short sandy blonde hair, and dark brown eyes looked worriedly at his friend. He looked up at Willy when he was sure his buddy would live. And you failed to mention you would have company, William. His voice was deep and he shot Jo a menacing look. Is she the experiment? Willy looked anger at the intruder, and then turned a guilty eye to Jo. Yes, he said, and Jo was once more stunned by what she was hearing, and she is also my niece, so you will treat her with respect, Gregor. Gregor nodded and went back to tending the man on ground. He had begun to moan as he came too. Get up, Nelson, Gregor told the man on the ground, its too far from your heart to kill you. Gregor helped a dazed Nelson up and the pair made their way to the table. Nelson was nothing like his friend. Slight where Gregor was stocky and black hair with light eyes, and now a large goose egg growing out of his forehead. Mack met with Detective Yoleson in a small diner down the street from the Tier building. Yoleson was looking put out, and well he should. Mack was surprised that Henry was still alive. You really screwed the pooch this time, Henry. Mack told him. Yoleson frowned at Mack and looked out the window. How do you loose an old man? Yoleson turned his frown to Mack. He killed my guard, Mack! Henry hissed, and took a quick look around to see if anyone had noticed his outburst. He took a visible hold of himself before continuing. Besides, Im not the one that lost the girl. This whole damned thing was bad from the start. What the hell were we thinking? We were thinking that we could all get rich, and protect the country at the same time. Mack reminded him. They stopped talking as a waitress brought them their lunch. Youre right though, Henry, Mack said around a bite of his club sandwich, its went too far. What about the other one?

Gone, Henry said eating a French fry, left the same time the other one did. Yoleson reached into his pocket and slid a piece of paper across the table. I found that in the cell. Mack glanced quickly over the note and paled. Yoleson nodded. You tell him. Mack pocketed the note with a shaky hand, and tried to find his appetite. We might want to think about moving, Henry. Mack said, and Yoleson nodded his agreement.

IX Broken Trust

Ive taken your masterpiece, and not that you care, but shes alive. This has to stop. Too many have died already. The experiments a failure, it always has been.

That fucking bastard! Charlie cringed away from Lieutenant Crane. He didnt know what the slip of paper said, but he saw its results. Charlie, Crane turned to his cowering aide, find Miss Grast, Charlie. Shes in danger, and I would like to keep her out of it. Yes, Sir. Charlie saluted and left with a sigh. He hated to be around the Lieutenant when he was angry. People ended up fired when the Lieutenant got angry. A failure, old man? Crane said to the empty room. I will decide when its failed. He took out his phone and started to bring his team together. It would take all their skills to salvage this.

The two women sat on the easy chairs and the men occupied the couch. Gregor and Nelson had been introduced as the Duncan brothers. Jo saw no family resemblance what-so-ever. Willy had managed to calm the situation down, and Nelson forgave Jo by complimenting her on her aim. Doctor Griss and I have known each other since college. Willy said, rising to pace the floor as he talked. We were both brilliant, and arrogant. As most breakthroughs do, ours came about through an accident. We were trying to isolate the cause of aggression in lab rats. We were exploring different chemicals, and gene therapy to see if it could be controlled, even enhanced. Arnie misread one of my formulas, and made a compound that increased the rats natural abilities. At first we didnt know what was happening. The rats were chewing through their cages, and

seemed to know exactly where we were when we tried to hunt them down. After we realized what was going on, we took our results to the professor. He didnt seem that impressed by them, and we had all but forgotten them, until a man showed up and told us he would like us to come and do research for his company. It was called Olsen Pharmaceuticals then, and they offered us a lot of money. Willy halted and looked down at Jo. I mean a lot of money. And all we had to do was recreate our accidental formula. For years we searched for the magic accident. Some of our failures were grotesque. Mutations and death were the usual results. But good ol Arnie, once again misread my notes and eureka, the magic happened. A big bonus followed, along with larger research labs. All the latest equipment, all the money we needed. Your parents were so proud of me, Jo. Willy looked off into his distant memories. Jo cleared her throat to prompt him back to reality. Yes, yes. Well, our research had reached a plateau. We couldnt continue without human subjects. Willy hung his head, tears coming to his eyes. We couldnt experiment on ourselves; we needed to be objective observers. We couldnt advertise for volunteers, the research we were doing wasnt exactly legal. But we both had extended family that needed money. Willy looked apologetically at Jo. Tears were streaking her face as her mind processed what her uncle was telling her. My parents let you experiment on them? She asked softly. No, Jo, not on them. Willy waited while Jo ran it all through her mind. I assured them that the research was benign, and that no harm would come of it, only good things. Their little girl would be their little girl, only more. Jo wanted to vomit. She didnt want to understand what Willy was telling her. Im a laboratory, Willy? A fucking experiment! Her voice rose, and she had to hang on to the arms of the chair. How could you do that to a helpless kid, to me? Me, Willy, your own family! Willy walked over to stand by Jos chair, kneeling down so he could look her in the eyes. I wanted what was best for you, Jo. He pled. Think about it. Your body processes waste more efficiently. You get more nutrition from the food you eat. You rarely get sick, and when you do, its not as bad as everyone else. You recover faster, you heal faster, and your mind is more acute. Youre everything everyone wants to be, Jo. And this is why all this is happening to me, Willy? Why my friend had to kill her husband? Is this Olsen Company looking for me, Willy? What about the letters, Willy? Are those a part of your experiment? She

gasped and sobbed, flinching away from the hand that Willy extended. He stood and began his pacing again. No, the letters arent a part of the experiment. Dont forget, Arnie has a family too. He gave the compound to his nephew, his sisters son. Everything was fine until he hit his teens. Then small animals started to go missing, and turn up in the woods. They had been dissected, as neat as if a trained doctor had done it. His aggression, his anger, it was always controlled, but always lurking just under the surface. Arnie and I knew that the experiment was a failure. We hid our research, and destroyed what couldnt be hidden, and then we fled. Olsen Pharmaceuticals became Tier Electronics, and they started to hunt us down. One by one the research team either disappeared or turned up dead. Willy stopped his pacing and took a deep breath. I think that maybe Tier got a hold of Arnie, and his nephew. Its the only thing I can think of to fit this elaborate charade theyve been playing on you. I think that theyve lost their control over Walter. Willy turned to look at Jo. And thats bad, Jo. Very, very bad. He stopped talking and sat down. Jo didnt want to look at him, couldnt stand the sight of him. Just thinking about how cavalier he was about experimenting on his own family made her want to hit him. What about me, Willy? Am I going to go insane? She whispered her fear to the room. No, Jo, you wont. Arnie and I believe that its a difference in body chemistry between boys and girls. Or, maybe, Walter was just insane to begin with. Melinda, who had been silent through the whole ordeal, rose and walked to stand in front of Jo. After a silent moment she bent to hug her adoptive Aunt. I love you, Aunt Jo. Melinda whispered in Jos ear. Jo broke down, hugging Melinda hard to her while she cried out her confusion and frustration. When she had calmed enough to think clearly, she made room for Melinda to share her chair. So what now, Willy? Jo asked. Now we stop Walter. He said simply.

Lieutenant Walter Crane paced the now empty cells in the old abandoned farm house. There were still blood stains on the floor where the

guard had died. Crane ignored them, everyone else was unimportant. He must have the old man and the girl back. Alex! Alex hurried to join his lieutenant. Have you found them? No, sir, Alex said, But Ive found which way they went. They cant get far, Lieutenant. The girl was injured. Crane paced the cells, looking for anything that might give him a clue. See that theyre found, Alex. Crane said. No matter what it takes, find them. Yes, sir. Alex saluted and left Crane to his musings. I never fail old man. Crane told the now empty cells. I never fail. He bent to study some equations written in the dust on the floor of the cell. What are you telling me? He mused silently copying down the equations on a notepad. When he was finished, he rose and obliterated the equations with a scrape of his foot. He walked out of the farmhouse, hands clasped behind his back, humming.

Shhh. Arnold Griss whispered the bandaged girl. Just a little longer, longer than shorter, but just a little. He lay by her side, and looked up through the floor boards of the farm house that had been their prison. He watched as men came and went, and barely stopped from laughing aloud when Walter walked right over him. He waited until he heard the last of the cars drive away, and then waited another half hour. When he was sure they werent coming back, he pushed the loose floorboards away, and climbed out awkwardly, stiff muscles cramping. He reached into the floor, and as gently as he could, lifted the bandaged little girl out. Now we wait, and wait again. Dont cry, dont cry, I can help you fly. Doctor Griss went to where he had hidden his medical supplies, and returned to give the girl morphine for her pain. He watched as her eyes fluttered shut, and then gently covered her up. They needed food, and firewood. He couldnt help a chuckle that sounded insane, even to him, as he left to run his errands.

X The Show Must Go On

Do not loose sight of the objective. No great undertaking ever occurred without set backs. I will recover the prize. We continue. Odin Mack read the note aloud to the assembled board, the investors and the high level movers and shakers of their little coup. When he finished he sat down. Alex stood behind his chair at the head of the mahogany table. Alex stood to his right, one hand on the back of his chair, the other on his pistol. No one sitting at the table missed the implied threat. Mack took stock of the board. Nearly every one of them refused to meet his eyes. I still vote for dissolution. Marty stood and took a quick census with his eyes. This has gone too far, Mack, too far. People have died. Were all accessory to murder! He slammed his hand down on the table. Laptops and folders rattled. Alex shifted his stance. And dont think Im scared of your little gun, son. Marty said when he noticed Alex shift. I will not back down, nor will I continue to fund this project under threat of death! A general murmuring arose as Marty sat. Mack didnt look back to see the tightening in Alexs eyes, he knew it was there. Mack simply made a mental note to find a new head of personnel after the meeting. He let the general unrest settle and then cleared his throat. I propose we continue as planned. He said when he had everyones attention. There is enough data to provide us with a reason to start manufacturing. Wilson, have you I call for a vote of no confidence. Wilma said interrupting him. That quieted them. The room was silent except for the beating of Macks heart, and the shushing of the air conditioner. I second. Marty said, looking malice at Mack. This is hardly Mack started to say before Wilma cut him off. A show of hands, please. All in favor, she scanned the assembled board. One by one they condemned him, all save Henry Yoleson. Mack gave Yoleson a look of gratitude as he stood.

I was once one of you. Mack began nervously, his mind racing as he tried desperately to find a way out of this. I feel I still have a place among you. Wilma closed her laptop. The board waited. There is no longer a need for an observer, Mack. She told him, a malevolent glint in her eyes. I would put myself forth as president. What is needed now is action. We need to find, Jo, and I know her better than anyone present. I second. Again it was Marty who spoke up. Mack should have seen it coming. Wilma and Marty had always been tight. The clandestine lunch meeting, the two of them whispering around the office, but that was hindsight for you, always clear as day after the fact. This time the hands stayed put, all but Martys. Wilmas face went red, and she clenched her hands at her sides. It seems no one wants you either, Wilma. Mack said with something approaching glee. Wilmas hands convulsed into claws, Mack was sure she was about to attack him, but she managed to gain control of herself, and simply sat. Its bad form to nominate yourself after you call for impeachment, dear. Doctor Wiggins said. His bent form and bushy white eyebrows gave him an air of senility. It always amazed Mack when the man spoke with such depth and clarity. I nominate Doctor Wiggins. Again a hush fell over the board. Alex was normally just an observer in these meetings. I second. Mack hurried to say. You dont get to vote, Mack. Henrietta Collins said from the end of the long table. All heads turned. Henrietta rarely spoke, but she commanded almost as much power as Mack did. Or rather, Mack had. However, I will second. Hands immediately shot into the air, Macks among them. I dont want the job. Doctor Wiggins said simply, and started to read his notes. You dont get a choice, Bill. Henrietta told him. We need leadership, and youre best suited. That being said, I would like to propose that the board eliminate extraneous personnel. This time Henriettas gaze fell on Wilma, and then turned to Marty. We cant afford power hungry troublemakers in our ranks. She said still looking between the two. Both Marty and Wilma paled. Mack wanted to applaud.

Oh, who cares, Henrietta, Bill Wiggins voice was annoyed. Fire whoever you want. Mr. Loki, would you please eject Wilma and Marty? Alex left his spot behind the head chair, and approached the two. Wilma stood and cast furious looks around the room. Marty hung his head, silent sobs shaking his shoulders. Sit down, Mack. Bill told Mack when the two had left. Mack sat down stunned. He was still on the board. More importantly, he was still alive. Crane sat and quietly absorbed Alexs report. His vision flashed red and back as he fought to control the killing rage building inside him. That bitch! Ill kill her for this! Cranes rage won, and the rocks glass full of his favorite scotch smashed into the wall. Alex, standing at attention in front of the desk, never batted an eye. Ive taken care of it, Lieutenant. Alex said. Cranes rage went cold, and he rose to walk around the oak desk and stand before Alex. One of these days, you will go too far, Alex. Crane said quietly, dangerously. Alexs eyes never lost their focus on the wall behind the desk. If he felt threatened, it didnt show. Crane backed up a pace, and stood silently regarding Alex. And when you do, I will be the one to take care of it. Im loyal to the organization, Lieutenant. Alex told him. I am the damn organization, Alex! Spittle flew from Cranes lips with the vehemence of his words. I am the one that planned this whole damn thing. I found my crazy uncle and coaxed the formula from him. I set us up to take over Tier. I have done everything. And in case you should forget just whos in charge, Loki, remember who it is that knows where to find your sister! Crane let his words sink in as he went back around the desk and sat back down. Have you found my uncle and the girl? Crane asked, not looking up at Alex. No, sir. The tracks were all false. I dont think he ever left the house. Cranes eyes shot up to look at Alex. Alexs stance and demeanor hadnt changed a hair. Crane again wondered what it would take to rattle this man. The threat to his family was empty, but only Crane knew of that debacle. She had been such a sweet little girl. Crane had been sure that he had found the girl from the experiment. The one he had fell in love with that fateful day at the lab. Crane smiled as he remember how she had died

screaming. Alex had found him shortly afterward, straight from the military, and out to find his sister. Crane had led him along with suggestions, and innuendo. When he had drawn Alex in, he told his new recruit that if he was a good little dog, Crane would see to it that his sister was returned to him. Alexs agony was always delicious. Then why dont you go back and see, dog? Be my hound, Alex. Find my prey. Crane took another rocks glass from the service on his desk and filled it with scotch. He sipped and thought as Alex saluted and left without a word. Alex left Cranes office fuming. It became harder and harder each time not to kill his sisters murderer. He ran through the litany again and again. He will pay, but I am not an executioner. I have a job to do. He will pay, but I am not an executioner. I have a job to do. Headlights coming from the dark road, where Alex waited in the darkened van, broke into his musing. He snapped back to himself and the whimpering of Wilma and Marty cuffed and gagged in the back. Shut up or I will kill you. Alex told them calmly. Tears leaked out of their eyes, but Alex felt no sympathy. These two were murderers, just as if they had pulled the trigger themselves. That anyway to greet a friend? Joes voice floated in from the open window. Alex got out and shook his partners hand. Joe wouldnt let go, he took a deep look into Alexs eyes. Lets pull the plug, Alex. We have enough to send them all away for a very long time. Im fine, Joe. Alex said, feeling safe for the first time in months. And we havent got them all, yet. I want all of them. Joe took a final look into Alexs eyes and sighed. Joe more than anyone else except Alex wanted Cranes head on a pole, Hanna Bohmer had been his fiance. Joe knew in his heart she was dead, and that Crane had killed her, but no body, no murder. What do you have for me this time? Joe said, letting go of Alexs hand and stepping back so his partner could open the vans side door. Two cast offs. Alex told him as the headlights from Joes Lexus illuminated the two bound and weeping forms in the back seat. Doctor Bill Wiggins controls the board now, thanks to these two. Joe helped Alex transfer the prisoners and listened to Alexs report.

Try to get Mack back in charge, Alex. Joe told him after Alex had finished. Alex nodded from the drivers seat of the van. Hes not as bloodthirsty as the rest of them. Wiggins isnt bad, Joe, thats why I put him up front. Look, dont worry. I know what Im doing. Alex started the van. Thats what you said when you talked me into this. Joe told him, backing away from the van. I loved her too, Alex. Alex sat still for a moment, fighting back grief he never had time to properly explore. He had no proof that Hanna was dead. All he knew was that she had disappeared and that Crane had been involved. It wasnt until after he had wormed his way into the United Freedom Front that he had learned of Cranes taste for torture and killing. He nodded and pulled away.

Theyve built the new research facility Twenty-Five miles north of Olseada, here. Gregor said pointing at the map. We set up camp on the back of this ridge, here. Call it a mile south. Trents there keeping an eye on them. Its built like a fortress, Willy. Nelson took up where his brother left off. The researchers stay on site. Vehicles and personnel are searched going in and going out. Armed security walks the fence. Its not going to be a walk in the park. We believe that the labs were looking for are about two miles down. Gregor said as Nelson stopped speaking. He looked at Willy and winked. Even lab rats like a drink every now and again, especially when someone else is buying. Can we kidnap a few, take their badges? Willy asked, ignoring Gregors lousy sense of humor. Gregor frowned at Willy but didnt say anything. Yes, but it wouldnt do us any good, Willy. Nelson said. Finger prints open the magic door. They sat in silence for a while. Jo and Melinda sat beside each other at the crowded dining table. Melinda studied the map, biting her lip and thinking. Every one has to breathe. She said into the silence. Four heads turned to her, and she began to squirm under all the silent attention. The fans here keep me awake at night. She explained defensively. I would think that the new building would be like this one. At least as far as annoying is concerned.

There would have to be maintenance access tunnels. Nelson said, smiling his excitement at Melinda. Jo watched carefully as Melinda blushed. If the new building is anything like this one, the air intakes are offsite. It would be much easier to pick a lock, than forge a pass. Willy rubbed the stubble of his new beard. He looked back and forth from Jo to Melinda. Gregor elbowed his brother, who blushed and looked down at the map. We think that the Feds might be lurking. Gregor said still eyeing his brother. Trent was approached by some guy, um, Joseph something or other. Green. Nelson said, still avoiding his brothers gaze. Yea, Green. Gregor nodded, finding pity on his brother and switching his attention to Willy. Trent said this Green guy was looking for information on Tier. In a round about way, of course, but it still set off Trents alarms. You know how dense Trent is, Willy, if he fingered a Fed, its got to be one. Gregor ended by raising an eyebrow and nodding his head at Melinda. So we get the Feds to baby sit? Willy asked. Both of them. Gregor nodded in agreement. Not a chance! Jo and Melinda said together. They shared a shocked glance and a smile. Can it, both of you! Willy looked at Jo and then at Melinda. I would feel safer with them close by, Gregor. I dont really trust our government right now. Gregor nodded, but Jo could tell he wouldnt let this go. That being settled, the five of them hashed out a crude plan, and went to pack for a long hike. Alex parked the van a half mile away from the abandoned farm house and hiked the rest of the way in. He opened the door and looked around. A fire had been built in the fireplace, but he didnt see Doctor Griss or the girl anywhere. He dropped the backpack full of medical supplies and food by the front door, and went into the back of the house. It was just as empty. Memory took Alex as he walked to the room that had been Codys cell. Crane had put him on guard inside the room. He had had to watch as Crane worked on the helpless girl with his scalpels. He had to watch Cranes excitement grow with each cut, and watch him shudder in orgasm at her screams. The bastard didnt even give her an aspirin. He cut her until she passed out, and then stitched her up. After Crane had finished decorating

the girl, he had seemed to loose interest in her. Alex had thought that killing the guard and letting Doctor Griss and Doctor Jenkins free would be the best he could do. Where had the old man taken the girl? A sound from the front of the house brought him back to the present. He drew his pistol and went to investigate. He arrived in time to see Doctor Griss reaching into the open floor to pull an unconscious Cody from underneath the floor boards. Is she alright? Alex asked holstering his pistol. Alright, alright, all manner of things are now right. Doctor Griss said in his insane sing song. Alex sighed and helped the doctor make Cody comfortable on a cot in the corner of the room. The fires a mistake. Alex told him. I used to be a brilliant researcher. Griss said. The doctors eyes clearing in a rare moment of sanity. Alex sighed and put a hand on the doctors shoulder. He had no idea how Crane had gotten the formula from Griss, but it had left the mans mind in a shambles. I brought you the supplies you asked for. Alex told him, watching the old mans sanity fade once more. Stay hidden for now, and Ill try to find another safe house. Alex let go of the doctors shoulder and moved the blankets aside to look down at Cody. Shes healing. Doctor Griss said, once again finding clarity. He may be insane, but hes a good surgeon. The scars will be thin, precise. What about her mind? Alex whispered. She wont mind, mind, mine. Nothing to my mind. Alex replaced the covers and with another warning to stay hidden, he left.

XI Whos Worried?
The board will no longer support this experiment. We are going ahead with production, and recruitment. Clean up any messes and report back for further instructions. Doctor William Wiggins, President Henrietta Collins, Chief of Finance With full approval of the Board of Trustees

Cranes face was red with anger as he finished reading the note. Henry Yoleson stood before him, watching the veins in his neck pulse as Cranes rage built. Henry reached across his chest for his gun as Crane struck. Yoleson heard and felt his arm break as Cranes open palm struck what should have been his solar plexus. Instead of dying, he flew across the room to land in a heap by the office door. Alex stood in front of the desk. Hands clasped behind his back as he looked down at Henry with that calm detachment that gave half the board nightmares. Henry watched Crane advance on him through the haze of his pain. Im the one that put that you people in power! Crane hissed, tossing the crumpled note at Yoleson. It bounced off his chest and came to rest in his lap. I will not be ordered to do anything! I am the true power here, Detective! Crane walked back calmly to stand in front of Alex. Henry scrambled with his off hand to pull his gun. And why werent you at this meeting? Crane asked. He reached down and pulled Alexs pistol from its holster. Without taking his eyes off of Alex he pointed the gun behind him and shot Henrys hand away from its mad scramble to pull his weapon from his shoulder holster. Alex never broke eye contact with Crane, but he heard Henrys yelp of pain, and the following sobbing breaths. I wasnt invited, sir. Alex told him. Crane broke eye contact to turn and walk toward Henry. He stopped before the quivering, sobbing wreck of a man.

You will tell the board that I do not like to be ordered anywhere, Henry. Crane said calmly, and Henry nodded, unable to speak. And the next time you try to kill me, Crane knelt down and seized Henrys chin in an iron grip, forcing the sobbing man to look him in the eyes. You had better succeed. Crane flung Henrys head aside, and the detective let his pent up breath return to mewling sobs. Get out. Get him out of here. Crane walked over to his desk, setting Alexs pistol down by the decanter of scotch. He fixed himself a glass as he waited for Alex to finish seeing Yoleson out. He didnt look up when Alex returned and took up his position in front of the desk. From now on, you will never miss a meeting, secret or otherwise. He said, still not looking at Alex. He took a long drink from his glass, trying to calm his nerves. The need to kill left an empty pit in his stomach, and he had to fight not to shoot Alex out of hand. Yes, sir. Alex said, never taking his eyes from the wall behind Cranes desk. Fully aware of the struggle that was taking place beside him. He felt his bowels loosen as the Lieutenant picked up the pistol, but Crane simply handed him the weapon. Crane went around the desk and sat in the high backed leather chair. He stared off into empty space, apparently forgetting about Alex. Did you find them? Crane asked just as Alex was getting up enough nerve to leave. No, sir, but I havent stopped looking. Alex said, risking a quick glance down at Crane. Forget them for now. Crane said surprising Alex. Help Charlie find JoAnne. Yes, sir. Alex said with a salute. He left when Crane waved him away. This is getting too dangerous. Alex thought to himself for the thousandth time. Just a little longer, he reasoned his fear away. Alex found Charlies office empty. He had always had his doubts about Charlie. All the evidence pointed to Charlie being Cranes man, through and through, but Crane never trusted Charlie with the business of the board. With a quick glance around, he sat down at Charlies desk and brought his computer online. Charlie always had his face glued to this damned screen. Alex knew that Charlie thought all the answers lay within the computers. He lost himself to a study of Charlies personal files. Not

being an expert, half the stuff he saw he didnt understand. The click of a hammer being drawn back, and the business end of a service pistol tickling his ear, brought him back to the present pretty damn fast. Good morning, Alex. Charlie said from behind him. Mind if I ask what youre looking for? Just snooping, Charlie. Alex said, raising his hands slowly. Find anything? Charlies voice wavered. He had never been the action type. Not anything I understand. Alex told him truthfully. Thats makes two of us, Alex. Charlie said, moving so that the desk was between the two of them, the gun never wavering in its aim. Whats going on, Alex? You have the lieutenants trust. What the hell is going on around here? Alex looked up into Charlies eyes, and made a decision to do something he had always been told not to. He was going to trust his instinct over the evidence. Im with the FBI, Charlie. Alex told him, watching Charlie carefully in case he had made a mistake. Charlie took the statement in, and waved his pistol to urge Alex to continue. I was investigating a kidnapping, and the trail led me to Crane. Alex put his hands down flat on the desk. Crane tried to recruit me into the Front, and my bosses told me to go undercover. It seems theyve been looking at the lieutenant for a long time. Charlies expression never changed and Alex started to sweat. Ive been feeding the FBI information and prisoners whenever I could. Look, Charlie, youre making me nervous. So you either shoot me or join me, ok? Alex braced himself. This would be the moment he either died, or gained an accomplice. Charlie took his time. He studied Alex, looking Alex in the eyes. Alex couldnt help releasing a sigh when Charlie lowered his gun. Im not a killer. Charlie said, laying the gun on the desk. I suppose youre going to tell Crane I failed the test. Alex took the pistol in a shaky hand, and moved it out of reach. No, Charlie, Alex said when he could speak. I was telling you the truth. He filled Charlie in as best he could, and Charlie stood silent listening. Take them to Miss Grasts house. Charlie said when Alex had finished. The lieutenant hasnt even driven by the place since she went missing. Alex knew he had made the right decision, and the two of them put their heads together to make plans.

Jo lay in the grass staring into the darkness. Willy and his friends hadnt thought to bring enough binoculars for everyone. For three nights now, they had searched for the mysterious tunnel entrance. Three nights of skulking around in the dark, three nights of shot nerves and cold feet. They had better find the damn thing soon, and Cody had better be there. That was what really had Jo on edge. She worried for Cody. After spending the better part of a year thinking that the girl was dead, and now a chance that she may actually be alive. It was almost more than Jo could bear. At times she wished that the letter had told the truth. At least then she would know what was happening. Left to her imagination, well, nightmares were the least of it. Im telling you its not out here, Nelson. Gregor complained for umpteenth time. Why would anyone build a fence around a place, and leave a way in outside? It just doesnt make sense. Jo sighed. This was a nightly argument between the brothers. Gregors right, Trent said, Lets go back and figure out a way through the fence. Trent looked so much like Gregor that Jo was surprised they werent related. Uncle Willy was right, she supposed, everyone does have a look alike. Do I get a vote? Jo asked into the darkness. No. The four men chorused together. That was it. She was tired of worrying and fed up with feeling useless. She rose and started walking toward the fence. The men hissed at her to stay put. They begged to know what she thought she was doing. Jo ignored them all, and continued on. Melinda soon caught up, and the men had no choice but to follow. Are all men like that? Melinda asked quietly. I hope not. Jo told her looking back at the four men hurrying to keep pace and still remain quiet. Jo didnt care anymore. She wasnt good at moving through the dark woods quietly, so she made no attempt to do so. The fence was only a ten minute walk from where she had started, and as soon as she saw it, she lost a little of her nerve. Now will you wait? Willy whispered coming up beside her. Jo clenched her jaw and moved up to the fence. She had to cross about ten feet of clear space to get to the fence, and being out of the trees made her more than a little nervous, but she was determined not to let it show. She heard footsteps ahead of her, and she lay as flat as she could on the ground, hoping that the wandering guard wouldnt shine his flashlight her way. She heard the others doing the same. When the guard had passed, she let out a sigh, and crawl the rest of the way.

Dont touch that! Willy warned as she reached for the fence. It could be electrified. Jos hand hovered near the fence. What the hell. She thought and grabbed a hold. Relief made her sigh when she failed to be electrocuted. Its not. Jo told Willy. She almost laughed when she saw his face, but sobered quickly when his shock turned to a stern gaze. You were lucky, little girl. He told her. And if that is the way you are going to behave, you can stay at the camp from now on. Im sorry, Willy, Jo let go of the fence and faced Willy. Im just tired of waiting. I need to do something. Guard. Melinda said quietly and hurried away from the fence. The others followed and hit the ground just as the guard came into view. Jo studied the fence while they waited for the guard to pass. It was only eight feet tall, but the razor wire coiled around the top was going to be a problem. She wasnt a professional sneak and had no idea if a blanket would protect her from getting cut. It always worked in the movies. Ok. Lets get back to camp. Willy said when the guard had passed. Jo lingered a bit longer, but eventually followed. She wasnt carrying a blanket anyway. Twenty minutes later they were all seated around the little fire, and Jo listened as once again the men did all the planning. Well have to go into town to get some bolt cutters. Gregor was saying. I thought I told you to bring everything. Willy said taking a sip of coffee. When Willy made the coffee no one else drank any. His coffee always tasted bitter, and no amount of sugar would hide it. Everything is a lot of stuff, Willy. Gregor told him. It wont take long, and Nelson and I can listen for rumors while were there. Maybe get lucky and find one of their scientists, one thats feeling thirsty. Why dont we just climb the fence? Melinda asked. The four men looked at her, and frowned. You did see the razor wire, right Melinda? Nelson asked. Jo didnt like the way Nelson always tried to be next to Melinda, but in fairness she couldnt stop him either. Im not stupid, Nelson. Melinda said rolling her eyes. We just toss a blanket over it, like in the movies. Jo blushed hearing her thoughts echoed out loud. And how would we get the blanket down once its tangled in the wire? It would give us away. Oh, and I supposed theyll just overlook a big hole in their fence. Melinda one, Nelson zero, Jo had to hide her smile.

I think were overlooking something. Trent said from where he lay by the fire. Jo had thought that he had gone to sleep. What do we do once were in? That quieted them down. Trent had made a fairly detailed map of the complex while he waited for everyone to reach him. So they knew which building housed the main research lab. The problem was that none of them were thieves, and only Gregor had any military experience. However, Jo hardly believed that the Air Force taught infiltration to just anyone. You know, Trent, Gregor said, Every now and again you have a good idea. I do hold a masters degree, Gregor. Trent told him, sitting up. In education I believe, sarcasm dripped from Gregors tone, Im impressed. Go to hell, Gregor. Trent threw a handful of dirt at Gregor. Enough, both of you! Willy said, not sparing his glares. This isnt helping. Trents right, we need help. Once again the campsite listed into silence. Charlie could help. Melinda said after awhile. Whos Charlie? Nelson asked, and then tried to look as if it didnt matter. Jo smiled. Hes a friend, Nelson, Melinda said, Hes with the government or something. Definitely not! Willy said. I dont think thats a good idea. Gregor said at the same time. It was just a thought. Melinda looked crestfallen. Jo could sympathize. It was hard being ignored by people who didnt know what they were doing, but were trying hard to look as if they did. Jo smiled at Melinda and patted her on the knee. Theres always that fed. Trent told them. In case youve forgotten, Trent, Im wanted by the feds. Willy reminded him. Jo had no idea why Willy was wanted, but she knew they couldnt do this alone any longer. Then maybe its time you gave yourself up. Jo told him. Cody needs to be rescued, and if I have to sacrifice the four of you to do it, I wont hesitate. The camp remained silent as the four men thought about what she had said. Crane rolled off the bed in the apartment just off his office. More like a hotel room actually, it was never intended to be a long term residence. Just like a hotel room, the bathroom was close by the bed. This was fortunate for

Crane, as the pain wouldnt let him do more than crawl. The headaches were getting worse, so were the muscle cramps. He reached the bathroom and used the sink to pull himself up. Shaking hands fumbled in the medicine cabinet, knocking most of the contents into the sink. He was barely able to open the bottle of pain killers. Not being able to draw a glass of water, he chewed the despised pills and sank to the floor. While he waited for the medicine to take effect, he again considered letting a physician take another look at him. And, like every time before, rejected the idea as the pain killers took hold. He lay on the floor for sometime afterward, luxuriating in the abatement of his distress. When he was able, he stood and cleaned up the mess he had made. He would just have to remember to take his tranquilizers on a regular basis. He cant afford to show weakness now. Not now that everything seemed to be falling apart.

XII Foreboding

Ask her about Doctor Wiggins. Joe put the note that his aide had handed him into his pocket. He sat back and considered the unassuming woman across the table from him. The interview was into its fourth hour, and he was sure she was about to crack. Forester, Wilma Age: 33, adopted. Natural mother unknown. Hieght: 5 1 Wieght: 103lbs Race: Caucasian Eyes: Green Hair: Red Occupation: Terrorist Joe closed the folder with Wilmas stats. He checked his notes again. No mention of the doctor. Joe had only what Alex had been able to tell him. He looked up to see Wilma staring at him with that self assured smile she had worn all through the interview. He checked through his notes again, anything to keep her guessing. Trying to shake her up was like trying to tear down a brick wall with only his hands. Tell me about Doctor Wiggins. He said lazily, looking up just in time to see her flinch. Finally a foothold, a crack in her armor, Joe tried to watch her closely without appearing to. What about him? Wilma said slowly. Joe was sure she was buying time to order her lies. He made a notation in his note pad. Pick up milk. How does he fit in to the organization? He asked her, still looking down at his shopping list slash to do list. So far nothing she had told him was new. Alex had been very thorough with his reports. Hes the president of the board. She said with a touch of bile. Joe sighed. He picked up his note pad, and stood up. Ive got to make a phone call. He told her. Can I get you anything? Coffee, soda, a sandwich? I need to go to the bathroom. She told him, squirming a little. He bet she did. Five cups of coffee and no bathroom break.

Ill try to find a female officer to escort you. He told her while he was walking out the door. He closed the door to the interview room and walked to the observation booth. She might pee her pants, Joe. Hector said when Joe entered the darkened room. Hector Guilles was the boss, but he let his agents have a free hand with interrogation. Joe looked through the two way mirror. Wilma was shifting uncomfortably on the hard plastic chair. Shes lucky I let her out of the cuffs. Joe replied. Hector snorted. If she pops, you clean it up. Hector turned to look at Joe. Its been four hours, Joe. Why dont you take a break? Put her in a cell and pick it up tomorrow. Shes about to crack, boss, Joe said. He watched Wilma get up and approach the mirror. Then again, maybe not, Hector smiled as he and Joe watched Wilmas orange jumpsuit darken as she relieved herself. Ill get the mop. Joe said hanging his head in disbelief and walking for the door. Maybe its time for bad cop, Joe. Hector told him watching Wilmas malicious smile. Talk to Jane. Joe nodded as he left. Why is JoAnne not back in our custody, gentlemen? Crane paced the floor behind Alex and Charlie, both standing in front of Cranes desk, Alex at attention and Charlie in his usual casual slump, neither looking back. Its one thing to hide a localized search, Sir, Alex explained, Another to hide a city wide manhunt. Charlie wondered how Alex kept his cool. He was sweating with the hidden knowledge. And your excuse, Charlie? Charlie nearly jumped. Crane was standing right behind him, his face so close to Charlies ear that Charlie could smell the whiskey on Cranes breath. No, no, no excuse, sir. Charlie stammered. Crane breathed down his neck for a moment longer before he resumed his pacing. Thats good, Charlie, Crane said, Because I dont pay you two for excuses. I pay you to get results. This is a serious breach of security, gentlemen. JoAnne is lost, and may be in the hands of a killer, and she cant afford excuses. So how do we go from excuses, to results? Crane had walked behind his desk as he spoke, and now stood leaning on his fists. Even if Alex hadnt filled Charlie in about Crane, Charlie would have noticed the insanity in his boss eyes.

The, um, the computer search wont do any good, Lieutenant. Charlie said. She left her phone and her credit cards when she left. Cranes reddened eyes focused on Charlie, and he swallowed hard. We have to assume shes left the city, sir. Alex said, drawing Cranes gaze away from Charlie. Charlie resisted the urge to wipe his brow. Charlie, Crane said, never taking his eyes from Alex, Will you excuse us please? Charlie nodded and tried not to run from the room. I want her back, Alex. Crane said quietly after Charlie had left. I will have her back, Alex. I searched for her, just on a physical description. I found her. It didnt matter to me that I had to go through several false leads. I never let a set back stop me. Have Charlie hack the police net. Look for stolen vehicles. Check every gas station on the way out of town. The farther she gets from me Crane cut off his tirade. Alex watched Cranes face twist, as he brought a shaking hand up to his temple. Just find her, Alex. Crane said taking a seat, and resting his head in his hands. Just find her. Yes, sir. Alex saluted and left. He heard the sound of a glass smashing against the wall as he closed the door. Charlie was waiting in the empty hallway. What now? Charlie asked, staring at Cranes office door. Chief of Security, the brass plaque read. What an unassuming title. Charlie thought to himself. He was scared. More than he had ever been in his life. Alex checked the hall, making sure they were alone. We move the girl and the doctor. Alex whispered. He grabbed Charlies arm and led him down the hall. As they left the Tier building, the clear sky mocked Charlies mood. He was sure something was about to go terribly wrong. Were going with you, Gregor. Jo said firmly. The men had finally decided that a trip to town was necessary, to pick up supplies and fish for information. Jo was thinking about all the warm clothes she had left behind. We need proper clothing, and thats final. Gregor glared at her, only lowering his eyes when he realized it wasnt working. We dont have time to baby sit. He complained to Willy. Willy just shook his head. He knew that once Jo had her mind made up, it would take God himself to change it. Damn it, Willy!

Gregor stomped off down the trail. The rest of the group followed. It was decided that they would break camp, and Gregor, Nelson, Jo and Melinda would take the car back into the city, while Willy and Trent waited in the abandoned lab. Trent grunted and fell to the ground in front of Jo, just before she heard the shot. Melinda screamed, looking down at the bleeding man at her feet. Willy grabbed her, pushing her to the ground and falling on top of her. Nelson and Gregor dived to the side of the trail, taking cover behind some trees. Jo knelt down and picked up Trents rifle. She sighted down the barrel, and pulled the trigger. Nothing happened. Her mind seemed to be racing, everything happening in slow motion. She looked down at the rifle, as a puff of dirt exploded behind her. If she had been standing, she would be dead. She found the safety and thumbed it off, raising the rifle to aim at the barely seen man crouching on the ridge they had just left. This time the rifle bucked with a deafening crack, knocking her shoulder back hard. She watched as the dim silhouette of a crouching figure lay down. She landed hard on her buttocks, jarring the rifle from her hands. Hold your fire! She heard from the distance and time sped up. Melinda was still screaming and crying at the same time. Willy was just getting off of her. Trent was groaning, trying to roll over, impeded by Jo sitting on his legs. Gregor and Nelson had disappeared into the woods. Jo watched two figures crouch on the ridge. Each one took an arm of the fallen man, dragging him back out of view. Jo managed to get back on a knee, the rifle once more pointing in the right direction, her shoulder just now starting to ache. Get his other arm, Melinda! Willy shouted at the sobbing girl. She didnt hesitate. She grabbed Trent by the arm pit, pulling him down the trail as fast as she could, all the while crying that she didnt understand. Jo heard sticks break off to her right and spun to aim the rifle. She pulled the trigger but there was no tension in it, nothing happened and she almost wet herself with relief when Gregor stepped out of the bushes. Move! He yelled at her. He took her spot in the trail as she hurried to catch up with Willy and Melinda. She heard two more shots before she caught up with them, but she couldnt tell who was shooting at whom. Stop here. Willy said, dropping Trents arm. Melinda stopped, and looked around, her eyes wide with fright. Ive got to bandage this. Willy ripped Trents shirt arm off, and used it to make a bandage. Trent was barely conscious, his eyes fluttered, his breathing shallow, and he

was sweating. Jo was concerned for the man, she wasnt a doctor, but he didnt look good. It went all the way through. Willy said, not looking up. Youre going to be fine, Trent. Youre going to make it. Jo hoped that Willy knew what he was talking about. Jo was watching the trail and surrounding woods nervously. She had no idea what was wrong with the rifle. Gregor and Nelson crunched up to the frightened party. Both men sweating and breathing hard, but they seemed to be in control. Lets go. Gregor said, picking Trent up in a firemans carry, and leading the group down the trail. Willy followed closely, Jo pushed Melinda ahead of her, and Nelson brought up the rear. After running recklessly down the trail for what seemed an eternity, Gregor called a halt. He sat Trent down as gently as he could. Trent moaned, but his eyes never fully opened. Jo crouched next to Nelson, looking back down the trail. Rechamber. Nelson told her when she told him her rifle was broke. Its a lever action rifle, Jo. Use that lever to chamber another round. Here, he said handing her two small clips of bullets. Each clip holds ten rounds. You have nine left in your rifle. Jo nodded as if she understood, and put the extra ammunition in her pocket. Who are they, Nelson? Jo asked, chambering another round. Why are they shooting at us? I dont know. Nelson picked up the spent shell and put it in his pocket. But I think you got one of them. He kept his attention on the trail. Jo felt sick at the thought that she may have killed someone, but Gregor called a quit to their rest and started them moving before it really had time to sink in. Gregor, Willy and Nelson took it in turn to carry Trent. They would rush down the trail for fifteen or twenty minutes at a time, then rest. Trent died just before sunset. He had never awoke, just stopped breathing. They took enough time to bury him, and then they moved on. Jo hoped someone could remember where he was buried. She hated the fact that they had to leave him, but speed was their main concern now. Tell Odin our men have found the prize. Shes in the woods near the lab. Macks voice wafted from Alexs phone. He simply acknowledged the statement and hung up.

Change of plans. Alex told Charlie as they were loading Doctor Griss and Cody into the van. Griss had let Cody come around, but she was still in a drug haze and only able to shuffle along. Alex hoped she wasnt in too much pain. Instead of taking them to Jos house, Alex took them to his meeting point. He phoned Joe and made arrangements to bring them in. It was getting too dangerous to let them run around loose. An hour later, Joe showed up with a couple of medics. They transferred Griss and Cody while Alex made introductions. Shouldnt he be coming with me, Alex? Joe asked when Alex had finished. Charlie paled and looked worriedly at Alex. He cant go missing yet. Alex said, shaking his head. Besides, Ill need him to work the computers. Your call, partner. Joe said looking askance at Charlie. Charlie frowned, not sure he liked being talked about like he was a tool to be used. What else? Nothing right now. The girls been on a steady diet of morphine, Joe. Watch her close. The Doctors most likely insane, but hes one of the good guys, ok? Joe nodded and he and Alex shook hands. Alex didnt wait around for Joe to leave first. He loaded Charlie in the van and hurried back to the city. Im not just a pawn, Alex. Charlie said as they headed back. I know Ive broken some laws, but I hope that helping you will mitigate that somewhat. It will, Charlie, Alex sighed, tired of the whole operation. It will. Silence reigned for the rest of the trip. Each man lost to his own thoughts. The board will now convene. Doctor Wiggins said, taking his seat at the head of the table. He resented these meetings. They took too much time away from his research. Biological computers were almost a reality, all he needed was time. I dont have time for this. Alex sneered. He moved around the table, stopping behind Mack. Report. Uh, well, Mack cleared his throat. Loki made him nervous just by looking at him, let alone addressing him directly. The guards at the lab reported someone snooping around the fence. I sent a detail out to check on it. All security matters go through Odin. Alex said quietly. Mack reached up and loosened his tie.

Yes, well, these were special circumstances, Im sure youll agree. Mack found it suddenly hot, and the generous room confining. They exchanged gunfire with a group of hunters. There were two women with them. They are not to be harmed, Mack. Alex put a hand on Macks shoulder, stroking his neck with a thumb. Alex heard and smelled Mack wet himself. If the girl is hurt Alex let the threat hang in the air. The other board members cleared their throats, coughed, looking anywhere but at Mack. The five of you have executive power in name only. Alex said, letting go of Mack and pacing around the board room table. You represent controlling power in Tier. Research, Finance, Administration. Alex looked at each head in turn. Procurement, Human resources, nowhere in there did I hear Security. Alex stopped at his usual place, behind and to the right of the head of the table. That is Odin, and by extension, me. Do not think that you are irreplaceable, gentleman and lady. Odin and his associates own enough stock in Tier to take over now, if they need to. Alex paused to make sure they were all listening. I would hate to have to fire all of you. The effect was immediate and just how Alex had planned it. Mack, Alex looked down the table at Mack. He was sweating and looking very green. You are now president of the board. No vote! Alex said as the board started to grumble. This is no longer a democracy. Mack is your president. Doctor Wiggins will step down and take up research again. Odin expects those weapons to be ready on time, Doctor. Doctor Wiggins nodded. He was secretly delighted that he would no longer have to watch out for the goings on of the board. It would mean more time to devote to his research. Missus Collins, Alex addressed Henrietta, Odin will need a current report on our funding. Henrietta nodded and made a note for herself. Mister Johnson, Mister Whimple, Alex addressed the heads of Human resources and Procurement. Odin will need those, um, recruits soon. The two men nodded also making notes. Mack, from now on, I will be informed whenever the board meets. Mack nodded. And tell Henry to get well soon. Macks complexion paled. Everyone at the table had visited Henry in Tier labs hospital wing. They were all aware that Odin had been the one to put him there. Meeting adjourned. Alex said, and walked out. He hated doing that, hated pretending to be a killer. But it was necessary. He thought of

how much this was going to complicate things, as he went to give his report to Crane.

XIII Scared Yet?

Recruitment successful. Expect full shipment within the month. Crane smiled at the memo, a small bit of good news in an ocean of bad. His hand convulsed in pain, crumpling the memo. He slammed a fist into the thick wood of his desk, over and over, loosing his sight in a haze of red. When he came back to himself, his knuckles were bloody and the top of his oak desk cracked and smeared with blood. Alex stood at attention, affecting not to have noticed Cranes outburst. Crane wrestled the urge to kill the man. Where? Crane sneered at Alex, spittle flying. In the woods, sir. Alex said calmly. Our men are keeping pace. They found a grave, but it wasnt her. It was a still unidentified man. They seem to be heading for the abandoned lab, sir. Crane swung an arm, clearing the top of his desk. The sound of glass breaking calmed him somewhat. I knew I should have destroyed that damn place. Crane got up from his chair, and started pacing. How many are there? Five, sir, three men, Miss Grast, and Melinda Holen. Is Jenkins with them? Crane was furious, or gleeful, he couldnt tell the difference at the moment. I believe so, sir. Alexs heart was racing. He knew Crane was just a moment away from killing him. Lieutenant Crane pounced. He grabbed Alexs hand as he grabbed for his pistol, trapping it in an iron grip. Cranes other hand found Alexs throat. Alex sank to his knees, his vision blacking out. The last thing Alex heard was Cranes soft, calm voice. I want the girl, Alex. It said. Alexs vision returned, and he found himself still kneeling in front of Cranes desk. His hands came up to massage his now free throat. Crane had returned to his pacing. Alex slowly got to his feet, still weak and numb by his brush with death. He considered seriously shooting Crane, and ending it

right there. The only thing that stopped him was the very dim chance that his sister may actually be alive. Yes, sir. Alex croaked through an aching throat. He threw a sketchy salute, and left the office. The sound of Cranes panting following him out. Jane Doughtry checked to make sure the video recorder and monitor were working. Aside from a slight glare off the two way mirror, it was a clear picture. Keep it legal, Jane. Hector said as she was leaving the observation booth. Always do, boss. She said as she left. She checked her ear phone, and radio before opening the door to the interrogation room. lawyer. Wilma was saying when Jane entered. Boss wants you. Jane said, clapping Joe on the shoulder. Joe heaved an exaggerated sigh. If youll excuse me, Miss Forester, Joe nodded to Wilma and got up to leave. I want an attorney. Wilma said to Joes back. She stared at the door a moment after it closed and turned a sneer to Jane. Jane walked to the rooms camera and reached up, turning it to face the wall. OOOHHH, bad cop. Wilma sneered. Yep, bad cop. Jane told her, walking to stand behind Wilma. Put your hands behind the chair. Jane told her, rattling her hand cuffs free of their pouch. Im supposed to be scared? Wilma asked complying. Not yet. Jane told her, locking the cuffs just a little too tight. Wilma winced, but held her tongue. Ready here, Jane. Joe said into her ear piece. Jane unplugged the ear piece from her radio, and turned up the volume. She walked around the table to take Joes seat and set the radio on the table between herself and Wilma. know anything. Marty Hargroves voice came from the radio. Wilma looked from Jane to the radio. It was Wilma. She planned to take over the board. She knows the whole plan. She was Mack McGregors personal aide. I was just in charge of the lab personnel. Jane reached out and turned the volume down. She replaced the ear plug so she could monitor the conversation. Wilma watched her, and Jane saw a tightening around her eyes.

Well? Jane asked, sitting back and letting Wilma stew. Wilma looked up at the camera pointing at the wall, then back to Jane. Off the record? She asked. Jane smiled, hook, line and sinker. Of course, off the record. Jo and the others reached the abandoned lab without further gunfights. Jo knew that their pursuers hadnt given up. The five of them retrieved the car, and drove out of the woods as fast as they could. Well have to steal another car. Gregor said when they hit the country roads. Damn it, Willy. Damn it! He struck a fist against the door. Calm down, Gregor. Willy said as he drove. I still have some safe houses. Were not dead, Gregor, and as long as were alive, we have a chance. Great, Jo thought to herself, a chance. What chance did Trent have, or Cody? She sighed and stared out the window. She couldnt think straight. Her mind was fogged from the tension, from her grief. Melinda at least found sleep. She mumbled against Jos shoulder, probably having nightmares. I still need to stop by my house, Willy. Jo said. We cant go to the city, Jo. Willy slowed down enough not to slide around a turn. Theyre looking for us in the woods, Willy, not the city. They will be, Jo, they will be. Jo fell silent, resisting the urge to slap Willy in the back of the head. He was right and she knew it. They drove most of the day, flinching every time they passed anyone else on the road. Willy pulled off the road, onto a dirt drive. It led back to an abandoned farmhouse. He parked the car in the barn, and told everyone to get out. Where are we, Willy? Nelson asked, looking around the front of the house. There was a cot in the corner, fresh ash in the fireplace, and several floor boards had been torn up. My prison. Willy told him, walking into the back of the house.

The worms are eating him. Inside the out, the out of his mind. Doctor Griss told the white smocked man. Doctor Griss grabbed the rail of Codys bed. She stays!

The orderly stopped the bed and looked at the doctor. Doctor Ficks nodded and the orderly shrugged, putting the bed back where it had been. That will be all, Josh. Doctor Ashley Ficks told the orderly, dismissing him. She studied Doctor Griss while the orderly left. He seemed to be attached to the girl, and she didnt believe he would hurt her. Doctor, she said, trying to get Griss attention, Can you tell me who did this to her? The All Father, with steel lightning. She is the sacred one. He hunts, he waits, he kills. The All Father, Father of us all. Doctor Griss said, keeping his eyes on Cody as he spoke. Doctor Ficks sighed. She bent to look into Doctor Griss eyes. She knew the light of madness when she saw it, and the doctors eyes shone bright with it. Arnold, She said, still looking into Griss eyes, its Ashley, Doctor Arnold. Do you remember me? We met when I was just an intern. Hell need children. He told her, the light leaving his eyes. It works best on children. What does, Arnold? Doctor Ficks asked, grabbing Griss arms. Who needs children? Arnold? Doctor Griss? It was no use, the light had returned, and Doctor Griss had fled. The broken mind inside that shell held incredible secrets and it was her job to find them. She hoped she wouldnt do any further damage trying to dig them out. Charlie clicked on ok sending a copy of the information he had gathered to the external hard drive he had smuggled in. Charlie knew he was in way too deep. He would take the information to Joe, and turn himself in. Charlie, Crane said barging into Charlies office, causing him to jump. She got away ag Crane stopped when he saw Charlies face. His eyes narrowed, and he sniffed the air. Why, Charlie, Crane purred, sauntering over to stand behind Charlie. Whatever are you doing? Charlie felt sweat trickle down his back. Do I make you nervous, Charlie? Crane asked, clasping Charlies shoulders and squeezing hard. N, n, no, Charlie stammered, I mean, yes. Yes, a little. Charlie wanted to scream. He wanted to run. He sat still, a mouse cornered by the cat. What is this, Charlie? Crane asked pointing at the computer screen.

Im, uh, Im backing up my, my system. Crane fondled Charlies ear, and Charlie barely kept in a sob. My uncles journal, and look the compound formula. And Charlie, what are Tiers financial files doing there? Crane let him go, and walked to stand in front of Charlies desk. Important files, I always keep important records. Charlies mind raced. Redundency. Charlie looked up into Cranes eyes, those bloodshot, mad eyes. Crane sniffed again, reminding Charlie of a scenting dog. The silence was pregnant with tension. Ok. Crane said, his eyes clearing. JoAnne has slipped her leash again. Charlie nearly feinted with relief. Here, Crane put a piece of paper on Charlies desk. The make and model of the car shes in, also a partial license plate. Get the locals in on it. Sure, Charlie croaked, Right away. Crane didnt hear him. He was already walking away, dismissing Charlie out of hand. Charlie reached out with a shaking hand to retrieve the paper, but he couldnt read it through the tears. In all his life, Charlie was sure he had never been closer to death than at that moment. Oh, and Charlie, Crane said from the door, never turning around, Youre in now, Charlie. Ask Alex what that means. To Charlie, the sound of his door closing was the sound of his coffin shutting.

XIV A Ray of Hope

Indoctrination complete. Recruits are ready. Move to phase two. Mack smiled at the camera, just another routine interview, and another veil over the eyes of an unappreciative public. In three, two, the stage manager lifted one finger and pointed. The red light came on and Tammy fixed her smile. Welcome to the evening new. Im Tammy Guthery, and the top story tonight is Tier Electronics new orphanage. We have with us Mack McGregor, the new publicity officer for Tier. Tammy turned her smile to Mack. Mack, why is an electronics firm starting an orphanage? Mack adjusted his tie, and smiled his best bullshit smile. Well, Tammy, as with all businesses in America, were in it for the money. Polite laughs. As you know, last year we announced massive layoffs. But our Head of Finance, Henrietta Collins, wanted to keep our office daycare. So she crunched the numbers, and put together a marvelous presentation, showing us how if we would spend the money up front, in the long run we would actually be saving money. Youre referring to the tax break, arent you, Mack? Yes, of course there will be a huge tax deduction for building and then running the orphanage. But even better than that, we will soon be able to provide even more jobs for the local residents. You see, we will be providing all the childrens schooling, as well as their health care. I heard that Tier is not excepting any special needs children, or problem children into the orphanage. Is that true? For the moment, yes it is. We need time to find the proper doctors, psychiatrist, and teachers for special needs and problem children. We do have a plan in place to be able to accept those children within five to seven years, however. And how many children are in the orphanage, Mack? We currently house two hundred three, children.

Wow, thats quite a lot. How is Tier housing them all? Im glad you asked, Tammy. Tier has built an entire community for the children. Weve built a school, a religious center, a sports center. All their needs will be met by Tier. As you know, Tier is known for the cutting edge research we do, and this is no different. Tier wants to provide these children with the best possible advantage they can get. As well as main stream education, Tier employees have volunteered to tutor any interested child in any career that they chose. So Tier is growing its future work force? More polite laughter. No, of course not, Tammy. The children will be free to apply to Tier upon their eighteenth birthday, but they will not be required to. No, Tier simply wants to give back to a community that has given us so much. Thats nice, Mack. Its good to see big business taking an interest for a change. And thank you for taking the time to answer our questions, Mack. Anytime, Tammy, Im always available. The camera cut away, and stage hands hurried Mack from the stage while Tammy segued into the sports report. Mack left the studio, and returned to the Tier building. And our final story tonight. One year ago a local woman went insane due to stress, resulting from the kidnapping of her young daughter. While in protective custody, she had a break down and killed her husband with a piece of a broken mirror. For over a year now she has been undergoing extensive psychiatric treatment. Her doctors testified in court, yet again, that Susan Holen is still, unfit to stand trial. Thank you for watching, Im Tammy Guthery, and well see you all tomorrow night. Good night. The nurse turned off the television with Codys bedside remote. You shouldnt be watching that. Theres never anything good on the news. The nurse was a tall well built woman of the thirty something crowd. Just like every career nurse, she went about her duties in an efficient and businesslike manner. My dads dead. It wasnt a question. The scarred little girl looked even smaller on the large bed. You dont worry about that right now. Right now, you just concentrate on getting better. The nurse took the cap off of the syringe she had come to administer. Its time for your medicine, dear.

Im going to be sick. Cody placed a trembling hand to her stomach. The nurse reacted with reflexes hardened by one too many accidents, and like magic had a bed pan under the girls chin. Cody emptied what little was in her stomach. Its the medicine, its making me sick. Cody let the nurse wipe her mouth. No, sweetie, its making you better. The nurse put aside the bedpan, and tried to fit the needle to Codys I.V. Cody jerked her arm back, and tore the I.V. from her vein, ignoring the blood that leaked down her arm to stain her sheets. The nurse managed to get the needle away before Cody did herself, or the nurse any harm. Now look! Cody cried. Theres not supposed to be a scar there. Youve ruined it! Cody held up her scarred arm. The nurse couldnt help but try to trace the hypnotic patterns. They started at her wrists, and wound their way up her arms to disappear under her hospital gown. The nurse knew that the girl had been purposely scarred from her neck down to her wrists and ankles. She shuddered to think of what kind of monster could do this to an innocent little girl. Cody used the bed sheet to clean the blood from the small puncture wound, and studied the damage that had been done. I want Aunt Jo! Cody screamed. Why cant see my Aunt? We cant find her, Sweetie. The nurse said in her best calming voice. She approached the girl slowly, careful not to make any sudden movements. The girl was like a wild animal, and who could blame her after what she had been put through. The police are trying. Its just going to take time. Im leaving. Cody attempted to get out of her bed, but the nurse was quick to restrain her. Cody wasnt weak, by any means, but the nurse was stronger. She crushed Cody to her in a fierce hug. Cody struggled only for a moment, and then went limp. Where will you go, Cody? The nurse asked, still hanging on firmly. You cant even remember where you live. I remember everything. Cody mumbled into the nurses shoulder, and couldnt stop weeping. The nurse held her, weeping along with her. Some pain is just too big not to share.

Good morning, Doctor Griss. Doctor Ficks said, entering the sun filled room where Doctor Griss liked to spend most of his time. How are you today?

I am well, falling down the well, always falling. Down. He told her, turning from his contemplation of the trees outside the windows. He came away from the window, and meander over the table that Doctor Ficks had sat down at. She had emptied a large bucket of tinker toys onto the table, and Doctor Griss immediately started to play with them. Whats that youre making, Arnold? Doctor Ficks asked. Doctor Griss was putting the toys together randomly. Not even trying to make any of the basic shapes. Two lobes to hold, one to penetrate. He told her, holding up the toys. Build a cushion, build it. He pointed to different parts of the jumbled mess he had put together, sounding for all world like he was lecturing. I thought that today we could talk about your research, Doctor. Ashley said. This seemed to irritate Doctor Griss. His brows bunched together in a frown, and he shook the toys at her. Build a cushion! He yelled at her, and launched the toys at her head. She wasnt fast enough to avoid them, and they broke apart when they hit her forehead. Ok, we dont have to talk about that. She told him rubbing the growing bump, and checking her fingers for blood. She was actually surprised not to find any. What would you like to talk about? Mumbling, grumbling, talk is cheating, He sing-songed to her. He had gone back to playing with the toys, this time building simple geometrical shapes. No talking, no cheating. There are things man was never meant to know, Doctor. Griss said suddenly, looking up at her from his toys. One of his rare moments of sanity and Doctor Ficks didnt mean to waste it. Your research, Arnold, tell me about your research. She leaned forward in her eagerness. Two lobes to hold, one to build. He said, slipping away again. Doctor Ficks sighed. She could foresee long days ahead of her. She rose from the table, and took Arnolds hand in hers. Come on, Arnold, She said, urging him up. Its time for breakfast. Flapjack, paddywhack. He sang to her, following her down the hall.

Is this where he kept her? Jo asked Willy. She had found him sitting in a room in the back of the house. The room was small, and held only a bloody table, and a chair. The door had been replaced by an iron gate. Willy just nodded, from where he stood in the corner. He had his arms folded across his chest, looking like he was hugging himself. Tears leaked down his cheeks. I just wanted to make us better. He whispered. Thats all, Jo. I thought I was helping. Jo went to him, and put her arms around him. What are you talking about, Willy? If I had foreseen any of this, I never would have made that damn compound, Jo. He reached up and wiped tears from his eyes. Im responsible, for all of this. He swept an arm to take in the room. Jo looked around, her eyes fixing on the table. Tell me what he did. She whispered. She didnt think Willy was going talk, he stayed silent for so long, staring at the table. He would strap her down. He began his voice cracking. Tears started to flow, and Jo joined his silent weeping. So she couldnt move. You see, he didnt want his work ruined. He brought his own surgical tools. He kept them sterile. Cant have her dying of infection, He would say. Jo sobbed aloud, once, and Willy continued. He would come and cut her at night. She would scream. I still hear her screaming. At first I used to panic when she stopped. I thought that maybe she had died. But shes strong, Jo, very strong. I got as far as the door once. He lifted a hand to point vaguely in the direction of the gate. I got to watch that night. I was made to watch, until she passed out. After that I would thank God every time she quit screaming, because I knew that for a moment she was away from the pain. Willy stared off into the past, reliving the hell of that year. I couldnt help her, Jo. I was the reason she was there, and I couldnt help her. Willy broke down, openly weeping in his guilt and grief. Jo held him tight, weeping for the horror of what Cody had suffered. Well get her back, Willy. Jo sobbed. Well get her back, and make that bastard pay for every scream! They heard a crash from the front of the house. Willy ran out of the room, Jo right behind him. Police! On the ground. Get on the ground now! Willy checked his charge to the front of the house, and Jo nearly ran him over as he quickly changed directions. She followed him to the large cell they had been using for a bedroom. Melinda was sitting in a corner, hugging her knees to her chest. Jo grabbed her pack and threw it to her. Then she slung her own pack over a shoulder and grabbed her rifle. Willy had grabbed his pack, and was

opening a window. Jo pulled Melinda to her feet, and flung her at Willy. The footsteps and shouts of clear were quickly coming closer. Willy all but threw Melinda out the window, and cradled his hands for Jo. She leapt out the window and crouched by wall to wait for Willy. When all three were out, Willy led them, crouching low, across the back field and into the woods. They stopped when they reached the safety of the trees and, keeping hidden, looked back at the house. Five squad cars were parked out front, and two of the now familiar black vans. Jo watched as Nelson and Gregor were escorted into squad cars. Their heads were hung, and their hands cuffed behind their backs. She watched a man in camo argue with one of the police, then he and his men got in the vans and left. Come on. Willy whispered in her ear. Theyll bring the dogs soon. Jo took one last look at the old farm house, and collected Melinda and her things. She followed Willy deeper into the woods, hoping that he had another safe house to go to.

XV Lost and Found

I cant swing a transfer for the prisoners. Dont ask again. Crane paced his office around the unconscious courier on the floor. He would pace a few steps, stop to reread the note, kick the man, and continue pacing. They knew where JoAnne was. He had to know. That was all. Not much to ask from someone he had helped to put into power. How dare he refuse! He aimed another vicious kick at the man, and smiled when he heard ribs crack. The mans breathing began to rattle, and then stopped altogether. Crane took out his phone and dialed. Alex, I want you to go to the police station and see if you can find out where JoAnne is. And on your way out, send Charlie in. Ive a little mess that needs cleaning. Crane didnt wait for a goodbye, he hung up the phone, kicked the dead man, and went to sit and wait for Charlie. Charlie entered the office moments later, and stopped to stare at the man laying dead on Cranes floor. Dispose of that, Charlie. Crane told him, enjoying the way Charlie paled at the sight of death. And when youre finished contact Alex, the two of you will be working very closely for awhile. Charlie simply nodded, never looking up from the dead man. He lifted the body by the arm pits and dragged it out of the office. Crane couldnt suppress chuckle at the sight, nor a full throated laugh for Charlies reaction to it. His mind zinged. Now that the pain was lessening, he hardly needed his pain killers. It was like he was thinking clearly for the first time in years. He whistled to himself as he read through the childrens medical reports. Smiling at the interview he had set up for Mack. Growing future workers indeed, Tammy, He thought to himself, And in eight years, an army. Police arrested two men at this abandoned house last night. The two men are being held for questioning. Police say they are suspects in last years kidnapping of Cody Lynn Holen, the very kidnapping that drove her

mother crazy enough to kill. Police say that if the two men are connected to the kidnapping, they will face charges of manslaughter as well. Where is that? Cody asked the nurse, pointing up to the screen. The nurse finished writing on Codys chart, and looked up. Just east of town, why, honey, do you know that house? The nurse was looking intently at Cody, but the girl just shook her head no. Ok, that shot should help you sleep, dear. Good night. Night, Cody said, closing her eyes and pulling the covers to her chin. She waited until the nurse had gone, then sat up and pulled her new I.V. from her arm. She quickly staunched the blood, and tip toed to the door. She cracked the door just enough to see the armed guard that sat perpetually outside of her room. He sat reading a magazine and chatting to the night nurse. Cody closed the door, and tip toed back toward her bed, but had to make a side trip to the bathroom. She became violently ill. She always did right after their damn shots. She just knew that it was the shots making her sick. She curled up by the toilet, sweating and shaking. Her body ached and burned, and her skin crawled. She could wait here just as easily as in bed, she told herself. The nurse found her asleep on the bathroom floor an hour later. She smiled down at the scarred little girl. She picked her up gently and placed her back in bed. She would have to phone the doctor about the girls I.V., but that could wait until morning. The girl needed at least one night of peace.

Henrietta stood before the podium and leaned into the microphone attached to the top. She paused a moment to gaze out at the assembled children and their guardians. A worm of doubt crept its way into her soul. She briefly considered what it was that they were about to do to these innocent children. Then she killed the worm by reminding herself that the country needed the type of soldiers they were going to turn them into, strong, smart, ruthless, soldiers able to heal faster, and to fight longer. What would history say about them, she wondered briefly. It would damn well say what it was told. Children, she cleared her throat and gave the children a moment to settle down. She continued when the room was silent. Today marks the beginning of a great and fortuitous time for you all. For you shall be the future leaders of our country. She gave the children a moment to ponder her words. Their ages ranged from ten to twelve and she really didnt expect

them to understand what she was telling them, but later they would remember. You will be separated into units of six. You will attend classes with your mates, eat with them, and play with them. Each group of six will have an adult guardian. These guardians will guide you along your way to adulthood. Listen to them carefully, children, they are wise beyond your knowing. After we are done, the group guardians will come to the stage and call the names of the children they are to care for. When you hear your name called, please come up to the stage and wait. Good luck, children, and may God bless. Guardians, Henrietta nodded to the nearest guardian, a man of twenty and fresh from the training that the board had provided. She left the stage, not being needed any longer. Now that the time is here, Henrietta, Im not sure this is the right thing to do. Doctor Wiggins voiced his concerns as soon as Henrietta met him at the bottom of the stage stairs. She regarded him calmly as he followed her out of the auditorium. Look around you, Bill. She waved a hand to take in the entire complex. Its a little late for regrets. Our backers would never allow us to stop now. Weve promised them a brave new world, Bill. Besides, according to all our data, the children will not turn out like Walter. He had a genetic defect, Bill. He was predisposed to insanity. Weve screened these children carefully, and if we missed something She paused while they passed a wandering lab tech. Well, if we missed something. Look, Bill, I admit Im not comfortable with the idea of killing children, but we cant let any more Walters loose on the world. That was the crux of all their worries. No one wanted to be responsible for killing a child, but they all agreed that the world couldnt contain any more Walters. Doctor Wiggins nodded his understanding. They made the fifteen minute ride up to the surface in silence. An entire day and night spent wandering the woods. Jo continually looked over her shoulder, straining her ears for any sound. And on the morning of the second day, she was staring out of the woods at the same damn house they had left. Weve been walking in circles, Willy! Jo hissed at the man crouched beside her. She wondered once again if he was entirely sane. I know, He told her smiling and getting to his feet. Theyve already looked here. The best place to hide is somewhere they know we

arent. With that said, he began walking across the field toward the house. Jo sighed. She looked over at a very tired Melinda. Melinda looked much worse for the wear. She had bags under her eyes, and they were all filthy. Jo couldnt remember the last time she had a proper bath. Jo smiled weakly at Melinda, hitched her pack higher, and followed Willy, Melinda just a moment behind her. The orphanage that Tier is building is actually a training site for a private army. Tier is being run not by the board that the public knows about, but by a secret board put into power by Walter Crane. Walter started working for Tier when he graduated college as a research tech. Thats where he met Henrietta and Doctor Wiggins. Those three are the core of the board. Mack, Julius, and Teddy really dont hold much real power. They are just on the board because of their jobs in Tier. Joe, Jane, and Hector sat around the coffee table in the offices break room and listened to the recording. And what was your job? Janes recorded voice said. I was Macks aide, but because of the nature of my job, I worked closely with all the board members. Marty was the lab personnel supervisor. Together with my knowledge we should have had enough power to overthrow the current board. It was working well until your guy spoke up. Tell me, does Crane know his right hand is in the bear trap? And what about Walter Crane? How closely did you work with him? There was a silence on the tape, and Jane paused it. Thats where she got real nervous, Joe. I mean real nervous. She looked like she was going to throw up. Listen, She fast forwarded the tape. without remorse. But its not just killing. He likes to torture them first. He gets off on it, really gets off on it. I had to clean up some of his messes as he calls them. This one blonde, Hanna, I think, she got it bad. He beat her, cut her, broke bones, what I dragged out of that house didnt look human anymore. The bastard was drinking scotch when I got there, like it was just another day at the office. I had to totally rebuild the fucking room. That was the first time I realized just how much blood was in a human body. Jane stopped the tape, and looked up at Joe. Joes head was hung to his chest. Silent weeping shook his shoulders. Hector and Jane remained silent. That was the best way they knew to lend their support. After a few minutes, Joe dried his eyes on a sleeve and rose from the table. Ill tell Alex. Was all he said, and left the room. Jane gave Hector a searching look.

I really dont want to have to arrest this guy. And he too, rose from the table and left the room. Jane wholeheartedly supported the death sentence that had just been passed.

XVI Phase Two

To whom it may concern: My name is Charles OSamus, and I was a hacker. A very good hacker. No, I didnt launch any world famous viruses. True hackers dont do that sort of thing. I stole and sold information. Well, this is the last piece of information Ive stolen, and as Im most likely dead, well consider it a freebie. A last act of benevolence to atone for my sins. I have recently been engaged at Tier Electronics. This company is not what it seems to be. There are some very bad people working for this company, most notably, one Lieutenant Walter Crane. He is my killer. I have included in this package, several disks, and several hard drives. These devices contain all the information I have managed to collect on Tier and the Lieutenant. On the drive labeled, Cranes Folly, please note a map with a bright red X on it. Like the pirate movies, X marks the spot. The spot I buried a poor courier who died at Lieutenant Cranes hands, solely for a displeasing message he delivered. Hopefully I will get out of here alive, and then I will be able to help the authorities in person. If not, get this bastard. Please. Signed, Charles Ian OSamus

Charlie took the letter from his printer, signed his name and put it away in an envelope. He taped the envelope to the top of the FedEx package he had made, and then obliterated every trace of the letter from his computer. He got up and took the package to the reception desk and asked the receptionist of the day to see that it got out. He walked back to his office, lighter at heart, but more worried than he had ever been in his life. Come with me, Charlie. Alex said, meeting him going the other way down the hall. Charlie didnt ask to where, he just followed. They went into the underground lot, and checked out their usual van. Where are we going, Alex? Charlie finally asked once they were on the road. Alex ground his teeth, he looked angry. His eyes were red, as if hed been crying, and it took him a while to speak.

You are going to volunteer at the lab. You can teach the kids how to use computers. Mainly, Charlie, I want you out of the way. Dont come back, no matter what you hear. If its not me, standing in front of you, you stay put, got it? Alex sped up as he talked, and soon they were speeding down the road that led to the clandestine lab in the woods. Ok, Alex, I understand. Charlie thought Alex may have gone mad, but he had to tell Alex the truth about what hed done. That was good thinking, Charlie. Alex told him when Charlie finished. I could make an agent out of you. The rest of the trip was made in silence.

Cody woke to find that the doctors had finally agreed to leave the I.V. out of her arm. It had only taken three times pulling it out to convince them. Actually it was either leave it out of her arm, or strap her down, and they feared the psychological damage they would cause if they did strap her down. Cody looked out of the window in her room. It was night. It usually was when she woke up. Her tremors had abated somewhat, and she didnt get sick as often anymore. This was going to be the night then. She rose from the bed and tiptoed over to the door. Cracking it open just enough to let her see the guard, she found him asleep. Opening the door a little wider showed her that the hall was deserted. She crept out and approached the guard. He was snoring lightly, his arms dangling by his side. Cody reached out and with a quick tug unsnapped the restraint on his gun. The guard snorted, smacked his lips, and crossing his arms over his chest, started snoring again. Cody let her breath sigh out. That was the hard part. She gingerly lifted the guards gun from the holster, and crept back to her room. She didnt have any of her own clothes here, but the staff had provided her with a sweat suit so she didnt have to exercise in her gown. She opened the closet and dressed in the grey sweats as quickly as she could. She approached the window, opening it to look down. She knew the ground was only fifteen feet down, but in the darkness it seemed longer. Guard! The nurses yell spun Codys head, she was rushing toward her. Without a thought, Cody somersaulted out of the window. She hit the ground and rolled, coming out of the roll in a run. Her left ankle ached, but she ignored it as she made her escape. She had no idea which way was East, but right now she didnt need to. She ran through alleys, backyards, jumping fences, and keeping to the shadows. Every police car she saw sent her in another direction. After five

minutes, her surroundings started to look familiar. There, on the right. That was Aunt Jos house. She checked the street, and seeing the coast clear she bolted for the house. The front door was locked, but the spare key was still under the flower pot, and she let herself in. Aunt Jos house felt empty. She didnt call out, not wanting to scare her Aunt if she was home. A quick search of the house showed her how empty it was, and had been for some time now. She found Melindas things in the spare room upstairs, and wondered what they were doing there. She had to plan, and since she wasnt going anywhere until morning, she curled up on Melindas bed and went to sleep, the guards pistol nestled under the pillow. Codys eyes snapped open. The early morning light, coming in the window, barely illuminated the room. She strained to hear the noise that had brought her awake. The front door rattled. She sat up in the bed, her pistol clutched to her chest. She heard a muffled conversation and a moment later she heard a car drive away. She heaved a sigh of relief, and got up to look out the window. She now knew which way East was. Gathering what clothes she thought would fit her into a small bundle, she searched the house for something to use as a pack. She found an old back pack in the downstairs closet, and stuffed the clothes inside. After a moment of thought she added the pistol. Though the power was still on, the food left in the refrigerator had all spoiled. Cody grabbed some canned fruit, and some cans of vegetables, stuffing them in the pack along with a can opener. One last look around, and she left by the back door, not bothering to lock behind her. You got the warrants? Joe asked as Hector hung up the phone in his office. Joe had been waiting for two days, and he was anxious to get moving on Tier. Yea, but just barely, Hector said with a sigh. The judge said we are skating on thin ice, and the next time we interview Miss Forester she had better have an attorney present. Where are you going? Joe had risen and was heading for the office door. To get the bad guys, boss, Joe said, halting with his hand on the door knob. No, your not, Joe, Hector said, rising to usher Joe back into his seat. Ive requested back up, and were going to wait for it. Task force is coming, along with about twenty agents from other offices. Its going to be about two weeks before we move.

Not one word, Joe! Hector said sternly as Joe opened his mouth to speak. We do this by the numbers. No back talk, Joe, no excuses. By the numbers! I dont want to lose any agents taking these guys down, Joe. Joe hung his head defeated, but he nodded his understanding. Hector stared at him until he was sure Joe was subdued. Good. Look, Joe, I know you want these guys. I do too, but this has to be done the right way. Call, Alex, and tell him to get ready to pull out. I want him back here in seven days. Hector sat back down behind his desk, shuffling some papers. Joe stood and moved dejectedly toward the door. He still has seven days, Joe. Hector said before Joe left. Joe looked back at his boss, but Hector was pretending he hadnt said anything. Joe smiled to himself, and went to contact Alex. Its a proximity mine. It will home in on any heat source over NintyThree degrees Fahrenheit within a three foot radius. It then launches this little guy. Doctor Higgins held up a small insect like device. It had four legs with sharp hooks at the end, and what appeared to be a vial of medicine sticking out of its back. Crane took the device from him to inspect it closer. Once it has found a target it will launch using compressed air. Then grab on with its hooks, once attached it will use another blast of compressed air to inject a mixture of neurotoxins and adrenalin, the mixture is fatal within two minutes, it will incapacitate in one. Crane smiled at the deadly little device. He understood now why Wiggins called them spider mines. He set the spider back on the bench and picked up a strange looking pistol. It had a bulky stock and two long barrels. He raised an eyebrow at the Doctor. Its a pistol. Shoots Teflon coated glass rounds. The rounds are hollow and designed to break apart. They can be filled with anything liquid. It uses a small spark to ignite a light fuel mixture behind the round. The gases are forced forward, and used to propel the round and reset the chamber, much like an automatic pistol. The propellant works just like a car engine, only smaller, and using butane instead of petrol. It doesnt have much of a range, but it is accurate within Forty yards, and lethal depending on the type of poison used in the round. Crane shook his head, and put the pistol back on the bench. Impressive, Doctor, Crane said. He looked around the room, part lab, and part machine shop. Are these it then?

Thats all that we have tested. Doctor Wiggins told him, but hurried to add, We are still testing a long range weapon. It works along the same line as the pistol. Were also testing an aerosol version of the spider mines. You dont like what were doing, do you Doctor? Crane asked, clasping his hands behind his back and walking around the room. Doctor Wiggins followed. I dont like what Im doing, Walter. Doctor Wiggins said. Ive never liked what you do. Then why not stop me, Doctor? Crane asked continuing his circuit of the lab. Oh, yes you tried. How is Detective Yoleson? Hell heal. Doctor Wiggins said, still following along in Cranes wake. The Doctor nearly ran into Cranes chest when the other man stopped suddenly and spun to face him. Doctor Wiggins did a quick back step. Looking up into Cranes eyes, Doctor Bill Wiggins saw for the first time, Death on a leash. I dont like you, Walter. Doctor Wiggins said in a small voice. I dont like what you do for entertainment. I dont like the fact that youve jeopardized this whole operation with your obsession. And yet the board agreed to it. Only to find out if the Grast woman was stable. You are somewhat fixated on her, Walter. Thats a dangerous thing to be, especially for her. Doctor Wiggins took an involuntary step back when Crane smiled. Thats a personal matter, Bill. Crane told him. You see, Doctor, unlike JoAnne, I no longer fight to suppress my rage. I channel it. No, Walter, Doctor Wiggins resisted the urge to run. If it was his time, it was his time. You enjoy torture. You like to cause pain. Killing is something you do before breakfast to work up an appetite, and frankly, Walter, the Front no longer has need of you. Ill admit my choice of entertainment is somewhat, odd. But you have it backwards, Bill. The Front needs me, I dont need the Front. This is it. Doctor Wiggins thought, This is the day I die. Lieutenant Crane considered Doctor Wiggins a moment longer and then walked toward the lab entrance. You would do well to remember that, Bill. I dont need any of you. Doctor Wiggins didnt realize how scared he had been until Crane left. The Doctors muscles felt like jelly, and he couldnt stop sweating. No, Walter, He whispered at the closed door after Crane had gone. We dont need you. We dont even want you.

XVII Lost and Found Refrained

To whom it may concern, My name is Charles OSamus, and I was a hacker. A very good hacker. No, I didnt launch any world famous viruses. True hackers dont do that sort of thing. I stole and sold information. Well, this is the last piece of information Ive stolen, and as Im most likely dead, well consider it a freebie. A last act of benevolence to atone for my sins.

What do you make of this? Sherry handed the strange letter to Robert. She had been working at the law firm of Nelson and Nelson for ten years now, and had seen some pretty strange stuff, but this took the cake. Robert Nelson took the letter from Sherry and scanned it quickly. He looked up at Sherry and frowned, then bent his head to read the letter more thoroughly. Is this a joke? He asked when he had finished. I dont know. Sherry shrugged. But everythings in the box, just like in the letter. Look, heres Cranes Folly. Sherry held up a small external hard disk. Get me a cable. Robert told her taking the disk. Sherry left and returned with a connector cable. When they had the hard drive hooked up they couldnt believe what they were seeing. A map of a town called Olseada, and just like the letter said, a large x was marked on the map, just outside of town. Get me the number for the Olseadas sheriffs office. Robert said not taking his eyes off the screen. It took a minute before he realized that Sherry was still standing next to him. Sherry, were legally obligated to report this. I know. Sherry said, nodding her head. But why dont we check it out first, Rob? Olseadas not even half a day away. We could be back before night. Robert turned his office chair to regard his secretary.

Sherry, attorneys dont investigate crimes. Thats why we elect sheriffs. I know, Rob, I know, Sherry waved away his sarcasm, But think about it, Rob. If this firm breaks this case, it could be national. This could make us big, Rob, really big. Robert turned back to regard the map still glowing on the computer screen. He chewed his lip and thought. He thought very hard. When the screen saver blanked the screen, he made his decision. Call Harris, He told a Sherry, a slow smile creeping across her face. Give him a copy of the map. Well give him half a day, and then well call the sheriffs office, and the FBI. Youre the boss. Sherry smiled at Robert as she left his office. Robert turned to regard the Windows logo bouncing around the screen, visions of national press conferences bouncing around his imagination. Do you know what separates humanity from other animals? Willy asked Jo as they sat in front of the fireplace. A small fire crackled merrily across the logs, providing comforting warmth to the abandoned house. Melinda napped on the cot she had pulled from the corner to one side of the fire. Jo watched Willy as he stared at the fire, and wondered what he was thinking. I dont know, Jo shrugged, our intelligence? Heavens no, girl, Willy said, giving Jo a strange look. There are a number of species on this planet just as intelligent as we. Then I give, Willy. Jo told him, and he turned to regard the fire once more. What makes us different? The fact that we ignore our instincts. Jo waited for him to continue, and when he didnt she prompted him. Im sure thats not all, Willy. She told him. No, not the only thing, he agreed, but the most important. Most animals would run from fire, but not us. Our curiosity got the better of our instincts. We had to know fire. So we ignored our basic desire to run from danger, and stuck our hands in. He thrust a hand at the fire as he spoke. Jo remained silent for sometime, thinking about what he had said. What does that have to do with anything, Willy? She finally asked. I feel like Im playing with fire, JoAnne. He sighed. I have from the time Arnie and I shut down Olsen and went into hiding. My instincts tell me to run and hide, but I just cant do that. I think I may get burned this time round. He and Jo remained silent, each lost to their thoughts. Willy

wasnt the only one that felt uneasy. Jo couldnt remember the last time she had been comfortable. The last time she didnt jump at every little noise. Youre just tired, Willy. She told him, getting up and patting his shoulder. I am too. Come on, lets get some sleep. You go, Jo. He said, patting the hand that still rested on his shoulder. I think Ill sleep in front of the fire tonight. Jo gave his shoulder one last squeeze and went to the back of the house to crawl into her sleeping bag and try to find sleep. Cody made her way east. She kept to the back streets and alleys as much as she could. When she saw a cop car, she turned the corner or hid her face. Dressed in Melindas jeans, a heavy jacket, and carrying a backpack, she didnt think anyone would recognize her, but why take chances. It took her most of the day to reach the outskirts of the city, and she found a gas station as soon as she did. She walked up to the counter and had to clear her throat to get the clerks attention. are looking for this young woman. She is armed, so please do not try to apprehend her. Contact the local authorities if you have any information Codys eyes rounded as she saw her face on the television screen. She immediately looked into the clerks eyes, but he didnt show any sign of recognition. Damn shame, thats what that is. The clerk told her, jerking a thumb over his shoulder at the small television on the counter behind him. Poor girl gets kidnapped by some whack job, cut all to hell and lord knows what else, and when they find her they arrest her, like it was her fault or something. Oh, they call it protective custody, but its still bein arrested. Hell, Id run too, if I was her. Sorry, didnt mean to rant at ya like that. What can I do for ya? Cody was somewhat taken aback, but this gave her the perfect opening. I hear they found her around here. She told the clerk. Yea, about five miles down that very road. The clerk pointed at the road leading out of town. Weird aint it? She being so close all that time and no one knowing about it. Gives me the creeps. I hate this fucking place. Ill be glad when Im through with school, then I can quit working in places like this. You know Ive been robbed three times since I started workin here? You think the fucking cops would spend more time down on this side of town and less looking for some girl that dont want to be found no how! Cody blinked off the barrage, and turned to go. Thanks. She said over her shoulder.

Hey, wait! Cody stopped dead in her tracks at the clerks words. What did ya come in for? She allowed herself to breathe again. Bathroom. She said turning a relieved smile at the clerk. He frowned at her for a moment, and she considered running. You run away? He asked and Cody could only nod. This aint a good part of town, kid. The clerk told her, digging a key from under the counter. He handed her the key and the large piece of wood that it was attached to. Its around back. Cody took the key and left to find the bathroom. Her knees were shaking with reaction, and she found she really did have need of the bathroom. When she had finished, she washed her face and hands. She stared into the mirror, and a stranger stared back. Just what the hell did she think she was doing? She couldnt explain the need she felt to go back to that house. Something was dragging her back there though. Shed find out when she got there. She dried her face and hands, and took the clerk back his key. Hey, he said when she handed him the key. Grab a dog, and a soda on the way out. Im about to throw them out anyway. She smiled and did as she was told. Holding her soda up in salute to the clerk as she left, she set her feet to the road. It was starting to get dark, but five miles wasnt a long way. She ate the hot dog on the way, silently thanking the clerk with every bite. Hes got to be stopped, Henrietta! Doctor Wiggins emphasized his statement by shaking a fist in the air. He paced back and forth in Henriettas dimly lit apartment. They all stayed in the underground lab now, and Henriettas apartment looked just like all the others. They were in the sitting area, at the front of the apartment. The sofa and the desk made little room for pacing, and Doctor Wiggins used all of it, forcing Henrietta to sit on the sofa and watch. I dont care if I go to jail for the rest of my life. At least there Ill feel safe. Henrietta sighed and watched the man she had grown to care for and respect loose his composure. She couldnt blame him after what he had told her about Cranes inspection of his lab. She didnt think she would have had the nerve to speak out the way that Bill had. Im pulling the plug, Henrietta. He stopped pacing and turned to face her. Im going to go to the authorities. Maybe if I agree to testify theyll give me leniency. Henrietta made room as Doctor Wiggins sat down beside her. We have to do this together, Henrietta. He said taking her hand in his, and searching her eyes. We have to stop this. Henrietta reached up to

cup his face. He leaned his cheek into her hand, and she stroked it with her thumb. Alright, Bill. She finally agreed. Alright. Let me get dressed. You go gather your notes, and Ill do the same. We cant show up empty handed to the party, after all. He smiled and turned his face to kiss her palm. She kissed his forehead, and ushered him out. She let her tears flow freely as she dressed and gathered what she could of her notes. She didnt think that either of them would survive what they were about to do. Alex prowled Cranes empty apartment. The apartment looked like it had been cleaned by a professional. Nothing left of the monster it had housed for so long. He went back into Cranes office and started to rifle through the desk, looking for anything that may lead him to his quarry. Seven days. Alex told himself. I have seven days. Hanna! He choked back his grief. Not now, he couldnt afford that right now. He found a note left in the top drawer. It was a readiness report on Wiggins weapons. The lab then, Alex thought as he crumpled the note in his hand. Alex hurried from the office. He had to catch up with Crane before he moved again. That man seemed to know when he was being hunted, and Alex didnt mean to let him get away. Hanna! His mind cried again as he left, and he again choked his grief. No time, no time right now. Charlie sat at the desk in his new apartment. He stared blankly at the computer screen, not really interested in the lesson plan he was trying to make. He was more concerned with the package he had sent out two days ago. He wondered what the attorneys would make of it. He had chosen them at random from the list he had found on the internet, but now he was wondering about the wisdom of what he had done. He shook the thoughts from his head, and went back to his lesson plan. The kids he had met so far were genuinely interested in what he had to teach, and he wanted to teach them as best he could. At least thats useful. He thought to himself. Hello, Charlie. Charlie started when he heard the voice whispering in his ear. He splayed his hands on his desk to keep from toppling from his chair. He looked to the right, but didnt see any one. He turned to his left, and saw Crane smiling just inches from his face. Charlie started again, but Crane had his left wrist a vice like grip. Charlie turned to look at his right

hand, wondering why it wasnt clawing at Cranes face like he had told it too. The blood drained from Charlies face, just as the feeling had from his hand. He saw a hunting knife pinning his hand to the desk. The sight of his blood dripping over the edge of the desk made him want to puke. Crane grabbed his chin and forced his head around. A little blue birdie told me they got a tip on a dead body, Charlie. Crane said pleasantly, as if he were talking about the weather. Tears leaked from Charlies eyes as his mind started to register the pain. Do you know anything about that? Charlie shook his head no, not trusting his voice. Crane leaned in closer, whispering in Charlies ear. I think you do, Charlie. I think you know more than you think you do. And youre going to tell me all of it. Crane licked the sweat off of Charlies temple. Im going to enjoy this, Charlie. I dont think you will though. Cranes laughter chased Charlie down into the darkness as he feinted.

XVIII Reunion
Gravesite confirmed. Contacting Police. Dont bother. Taken care of. Get back, Robert texted back to Harris. He smiled up at Sherry. They had been waiting in the conference room for word from the private investigator, Robert sitting patiently and Sherry pacing the floor like an expectant mother. Its real. Was all he said. She rose from the conference table she had been leaning against and started to pace the room again excitedly. This is big, Rob, she said throwing her hands in the air, huge! Ill call the press. No, wait. He stopped her before she could leave the room. Sherry, were small claims. We dont know how to handle something like this. Now, wait, he said as she frowned at him, Ill make sure we get mentioned, but, Sherry, we cant go to the press with this. We have to take this to the FBI. We are in over our heads. Sherry crossed her arms and frowned at him for a moment longer, and then she rolled her eyes and sighed. Youre right, she said, moving to the table and picking up the conference room phone. Youre right. She dialed a number and they waited. I need to speak with an agent, Sherry said into the phone. Regarding a murder, she said after a pause. Oh, theyll want to handle this murder. She smiled at Robert. He smiled back at her. In his heart he knew this was the right thing to do, but he would miss the glory that could have been his. Cody crept closer to the house that had been her prison for a little more than a year. Her heart raced, her palms were sweaty, the scars on her body burned. Five miles had seemed more like ten, and if it hadnt been for the smell of smoke, she never would have found the place. She put her back pack down outside the front door, and took out the guards pistol. Thumbing the safety off, she silently slipped inside. The fire had burned down to little

more than coals. But she could see by the dim light a figure stretched out in front of it. Her cot was off to the side of the fireplace, but close enough for her see a womans long hair sticking out of the covers. She tiptoed forward, and nearly dropped her gun in shock as she looked down at her sisters sleeping face. She put the safety back on. She set the gun on the floor as she knelt next to her sister, tears welling in her eyes. Mindy. She whispered, and Melinda stirred. Mindy, its me, Lynnie. Melindas eyes fluttered open and she looked at her sister sleepily. Thats my jacket. Melinda said her voice hoarse with sleep. Thats my bed. Cody choked on the retort, and Melindas eyes flew wide. She sat up in bed, tears running down her cheeks, a trembling hand covering her mouth, and another outstretched to touch Cody lightly on the arm. Aunt Jo! Melinda screamed never looking away from Cody, and taking a firm grasp on Codys arm as if she needed to keep the girl from running. The man that had been sleeping on the floor bound to his feet. He looked once into Codys eyes and they nodded their hellos. That was Willy, the man who had tried to save her. He moved to look out the broken front window. Cody heard running footsteps behind her, and she rose to turn and look. Aunt Jo stopped when she entered the room. Her hair was wild from sleep, and she held a hunting rifle like she meant to use it. Cody watched tears well up in her aunts eyes. Jo put the rifle aside and approached Cody one slow step at a time. Cody saw her aunts lips tremble, and Jo stretched out trembling hands to run fingers over her face and hair. Jo crushed Cody to her in a fierce hug. It was like hugging a piece of steel, but the steel slowly melted. First Codys shoulders shook in silent sobs, and then her arms hugged back nearly taking Jos breathe away. Cody buried her face in Jos shoulder, muffling her howls of pent up grief and agony. Primordial sounds of emotion that no longer had a name. Melinda rose from the cot and joined the two, the three sharing in the release of their grief, their joy, their love. Im safe now. Cody thought to herself. Im safe now. Willy watched from where he stood at the window, his own tears washing tracks through the grime on his face. When they had run out of breath to give voice to their emotion, Jo gently pushed Cody back so she could look down at her face. She smoothed back Codys hair and wiped at the tears still running down the girls cheeks. What, Jo began in a trembling voice, hoarse from crying, Why are you here? How did you get here? Where have you been?

Whats wrong? Melinda said from where she stood beside her Aunt. Codys face had suddenly gone pale, and sweat had sprung up on her forehead. Im going to be sick. Was all Cody got out before the hot dog and soda came back up. Willy! Jo screamed following Cody down to her knees, holding the girls hair out of the way while she vomited. Willy rushed over and rubbed the back of Codys neck, while he knelt to feel her pulse. He ran a hand over her face, and looked into her eyes when she had stopped vomiting. Shes in withdrawal, Jo. Willy said, just as Cody screamed in pain. Every muscle in the young girls body going tense, she collapsed into Jo and started to tremble uncontrollably. Do something, Willy! Jo demanded, gently holding Cody as she shook, mewling like a kitten. Do what, Jo? Willy asked in exasperation. I dont have anything here to do something! Well just have to make her as comfortable as we can until this passes. Jo started to cry again, rocking Cody as the girl writhed in her pain. Melinda joined in Jos weeping. Wishing to go to her sister, and wishing to stay out of the way, she stood confused her hands clasped before her face as if in prayer. It was going to be a very long night.

You two, Alex said, catching sight of Doctor Wiggins and Henrietta coming toward him hand in hand. Where is he? They stopped and looked at each other. Doctor Wiggins cleared his throat and looked back at Alex. Odin took him. He said flinching. Doctor Wiggins peered at Alex as Alex struggled to make sense of the answer. Odin took Odin? Alex asked. The two shared another look. No, Henrietta said cautiously, Odin took Charles, he and six of his goons. Charles was unconscious and bleeding at the time. She paused to see how her words would be taken. Alex ground his teeth in frustration. Once again he was too late, and this time it may have cost a man his life. Did he say where he was going? Alex asked, buying time while he thought. No he didnt. Doctor Wiggins said. Now if youll excuse us, Loki, weve matters to attend to. Alex watched as they passed his mind racing.

I think you two will come with me. He told them before they had gotten too far from him. The two of them stopped, shared another look, and turned to face him. If youre here to kill us, young man, Henrietta spoke, then do so now and be done with it. If not, then we will go our own way. Alex sighed, the hard way then. He pulled his pistol and aimed it at the two. They never flinched, only squared their shoulders and waited. Turn around, Alex told them, Im taking you somewhere. As you have bee Doctor Wiggins stopped at the sound of Alex pulling the hammer back. He looked at Henrietta, and she at him. They shrugged, turned around and started walking. Alex relaxed the hammer, and holstered his pistol while he followed them out of the complex. I can make the pain stop, Charlie. Crane purred in Charlies ear. All you have to do is tell me who youre working for. Im not working for anyone, you madman. Charlie gulped air as he cried. He no longer felt shame for his tears, or for his cries of pain. He had awoke strapped to a rough topped wooden table, splinters of wood digging into his back. He couldnt as much as wiggle. There was a strap across his forehead, across his shoulders, and one at his waist. His arms were strapped at the elbow and wrist, and his legs at the knees and ankles. He had lost count of how many times he had passed out while Crane cut him. His whole body burned with the cuts. The water Crane used to wash away the blood felt like acid in the cuts. Charlie had thought that the worst of the pain was over once Crane had finished cutting on his genitals. Then the bastard started cutting the soles of his feet, and Charlie thought that was the worst of the pain. He had been wrong again. Crane moved from the soles of his feet to the soft flesh under his arms. Each time Charlie thought Crane had done his worst, the lunatic proved him wrong. But he hadnt talked. He hadnt told Crane about Alex. That was the one secret he vowed Crane would never have. Crane prostrated himself on top of Charlie, and licked at the blood running from a cut on Charlies cheek. Charlie, Crane purred at him and Charlie felt Cranes erection. I love this game, Charlie. Lets not ever stop. Cranes body shook in orgasm as Charlie screamed. Crane had cut a shallow trench up Charlies inner thigh. Crane lay panting for a short eternity, and then rose slowly from the table. He ran a hand lovingly over Charlies face, and kissed him gently on the lips.

Ill be back, Charlie. Dont go anywhere. Charlies weeping renewed as Crane laughed his way out of the room. One of Cranes guards came in as the Lieutenant left. He looked down at the weeping man. Charlie took a special prayer to heaven for that guard, the one who had ended his torment. Charlie hadnt even felt the bullet. Crane looked down at the mound of bleeding, quivering flesh that had been one of his trusted guards. The other five lined the wall at attention. Crane had made them watch as he tortured the man to within an inch of life. What about him, sir? The guard closest to the door asked as Crane made his way from the room. Crane stopped and looked at the guard. The guard kept his eyes on the wall, and Crane looked back at his handiwork. Leave it. He took my one chance to catch the traitor. He doesnt deserve a warriors death. Crane didnt listen to the yes, sir,, nor see the salute the guard gave him. He had other things on his mind. He took out his phone and dialed Wiggins, but the call went straight to voice mail. He tried Henrietta, and got the same. Well, hed just have to go back and track down the two of them. Once he got his domestic problems under control, he could go back to searching for JoAnne, JoAnne, sweet, sweet JoAnne, the one human on earth that would ever be able to understand him. The only other person who was more than human like himself, the next step in mans evolution, this time not governed by the whimsical universe. This time mans evolution, his evolution would be governed by Walter Crane! The world would pay for what was done to him! The World! Mad laughter chased these thoughts around his mind. He hummed to himself as he cleaned the days work from his hands.

XIX Messages
Cody Lynn Holen died in this house at the hands of a madman, and was brought back to life by an angel. Cody brushed the last few splinters from the words she had carved into the wall of the room that had been her cell. Whatcha doin? Melinda asked coming into the room. Nothing, Cody said rising from her work. Cody caught Melindas stare. She smiled and took off her shirt and pants, folding them neatly and put them in the corner. She put her undergarments atop them, and stood nude before her sister, turning slowly. She felt Melindas finger trace one of the scars, and could once more feel the scalpel cut into her. At the speed of thought, she relived every cut, each burned separately into memory. She could close her eyes and draw the patterns that were on her body, just by the memory of pain. She also remembered how Doctor Griss had been beaten bloody when her captor found out he had been giving her medicine to take away the pain. She smiled at the memory of his kindness, forgiving him her addiction. That sin she lay at the feet of the man who had caused the need for the kindness. She completed her turn and once more stood facing Melinda. They must have hurt so much, Code. Melinda said, still not able to take her eyes from her sisters scars. They look so beautiful on you. Im sorry! Melinda cried when she realized what she had just said, her hands going to her mouth. Cody smiled. She knew her sister was right. The scars gave her otherwise boyish body a savage beauty. She was proud of her scars, and what she had endured to get them. Though it hadnt been by choice, they were hers now. They are gorgeous arent they? Cody said with a hint of the imp in her voice. Jealous? No. Yes. Melinda said, and then hugged her sister tight. I love you, Lynnie. I love you too, Mindy. Cody said returning the hug. Melinda and Jo took every opportunity they could to touch her and remind her that they

loved her. If she didnt need to hear it so desperately it would soon have become tiresome. Well, arent you two a sight? Jo said seeing the sisters embracing in the middle of the room. Cody kept her arm around Melinda, but broke the embrace to look at her aunt. She saw Aunt Jo take a quick look, and then avert her eyes. Aunt Jo hadnt been able yet to look at her scars. Cody stepped away from her sister and took her aunts hands in her own. She twisted to look up into Jos eyes, and Jo continued to avoid her gaze. Look at them, Aunt Jo. Cody whispered. Just look at them. Theyre actually very beautiful. Jo choked on a sob, but wouldnt meet Codys gaze, nor would she look at her godchilds scars. Why dont you look at them, Aunt Jo? Why dont you look at me? Cody gave her aunts limp hands a squeeze. I couldnt save you. Jo whispered silent tears escaping her eyes. I couldnt stop him. I thought he had killed you. I thought he had raped you. And it was all because of me. Jo was rocked back by the force of Codys slap. She met Codys eyes. Jo wouldnt blame the girl if she wanted to beat her to death. Dont you dare take this away from me! Cody screamed, tears streaming down her face. You have no idea what I went through! Me, Aunt Jo, not you! I lay on that table day after day while a lunatic cut me. Night after night I was tortured by dreams of Mommy and Daddy saving me. I went through hell, Aunt Jo, and I came out the other side! So dont you dare take credit for it! Its mine, you hear me? Mine! Jo didnt know how to take what she had just heard. She looked, really looked for the first time at what had been done to Cody. The patterns were hypnotic, and she admitted beautiful. They somehow defined who Cody was. Her spirit carved into her flesh. Jo trembled as she remembered the words of the letter Crane had written. But he hadnt lied. He had done just what he said, he carved her spirit into her flesh, and she was beautiful. Jo gathered the weeping girl into her arms. Im sorry, Cody, She told her while they both cried, youre right. Theyre yours and no one can take that away from you. Jo held Cody until they could both forgive themselves and each other. Jo heard someone clear their throat behind her, and she turned. Willy! Jo shouted spreading her arms wide to hide Codys nudity. Do you mind? Willy looked confused and Jo could see him thinking. Ah, yes, well, um I have seen the child naked before, Jo. Willy said by way of excuse, but he turned his back to the room anyway. Cody walked to her clothes and dressed unhurriedly, without any sign of modesty.

What is it, Willy? Jo asked when Cody at last had her clothes back on. Willy turned his head with a raised eyebrow, and seeing that Cody had dressed turned all of the way around. We need food, Jo. And medical supplies, but mostly we need food. We have a knife and a rifle, Willy, find food. Jo told him. She didnt feel comfortable sending any of them back into town. She knew that the only people she would ever be able to trust again stood in this room. Willy nodded and left, Melinda tailing behind him. Jo turned to Cody. Cody had retrieved their one and only hunting knife from where she had left it lodged in the wall. Jo went to her, and read what she had carved into the wall. I suppose Doctor Griss was an angel after all. She said putting an arm around her shoulders. Cody put an arm around Jos waist and leaned her head on Jos shoulder. I wasnt thinking about Doctor Griss when I wrote it, Aunt Jo. Cody smiled shyly up at her Aunt. I was thinking of you. Jo couldnt speak through the lump in her throat. She kissed the top of Codys head and led them from the room. If Jo knew Willy they would soon have dinner to clean and cook. Thats great. Ill send an agent right away. Hector hung up his cell phone, and turned to Joe. They sat around Janes desk in the center of the squad room. That was the Telusa office. Hector told them. It seems a small claims attorney has some of our evidence. Joe and Jane exchanged looks, but Joe asked first. How the hell did it wind up there? He asked and Jane nodded along. A man by the name of Charles OSamus mailed it to them. Hector looked at Joe expectantly. I dont know the name. Joe told him. Its Charlie, Joe. Alexs voice said from behind Joe causing him to leap into the air. Jane laughed as she rose from her desk. Even Hector wore a smile as he greeted Joes partner with a handshake. Joe took Alex by the shoulders, pounding his back in a hug. What are you doing here? Joe asked him, meaning is Crane dead? Alex shook his head no, and Joe hung his head. By this time the little group had grown. Six of the agents from the task force gathered close to listen in, along with two elderly people Joe didnt know.

Crane kidnapped Charlie, Joe. Alex said gravely. Im sorry, Alex. Joe told him sympathizing with Alex for the loss of a friend. Thanks, but I think Charlie might still be alive. It all depends on how much time Crane has with him. Regardless, I had to come in. Crane should know whos after him by now. Oh, yea, I almost forgot, Alex turned to the two elder people, a man and a woman. Doctor Wiggins, Henrietta Collins, you are under arrest. The old man nodded looking around at all the agents. Thats fine, Lo, I mean, Alex, the woman said, We were expecting something like that when we saw where you were taking us. Hector, everybody, this is Doctor William Wiggins, chief engineer for the United Freedom Front. Alex pointed to the old man who nodded around the room. Thats Henrietta Collins, Chief money officer. If you want to know where the money is, you talk to her. She can name the backers of their little organization. The good doctor can tell you all about the nifty weapons he built, but first, if you would doctor, the frequency for the radio trackers on the vans. Alex waited. The doctor simply stared at him. Oh, give him the frequencies, Bill. Henrietta said to the doctor. It is why we came here in the first place. Doctor Wiggins frowned, but he nodded. He took a scrap of paper from Janes desk and wrote some numbers down, and then he handed the paper to Alex. I expect a deal out of this. The doctor said letting the paper go. The deal is Crane wont kill you now, Doctor. Alex told him. Alex looked down at the paper, and started to push his way through the crowd. Where are you going, Alex? Hector asked as Alex made his way to the door. To catch the bad guys, boss. Joe smiled hearing his and Alexs favorite phrase. No youre not, Alex. We have men coming in, youll wait. Alex stopped and turned to regard his boss. Crane has a man that trusted me to keep him safe, Hector. Im going to go get him back. Dont worry, boss, Ill go along to keep an eye on him. Joe said, clapping Hector on the shoulder and pushing through the crowd to join his partner. Hey, wait for me. Jane called out as she threw her jacket on and hurried to join the two. Yea, I think Ill go. You dont need me right now do you, Captain? One of the task force officers said. Hector looked around as one by one the

agents made some excuse why they should go with Alex. Hector shook his head. Alright, he threw his hands in the air. Jane, I need you to go to Telusa and pick up that evidence. No sass! Hector stared Jane down until she nodded. Alex squeezed her shoulder in sympathy. The rest of you suit up. The copters on the roof, Alex, get it fueled. And no killing, Alex, I want Crane alive. Do you hear me, Alex? Hector shouted as Alex and the others filed from the room. Goddamn it, Alex, no killing! I mean it! Did you hear something? Alex asked Joe as they headed for the helicopter port on top of the building. I thought I might have, but the helicopters really loud. Joe said. The agents following them laughed. They were more than happy to execute Crane. They had all heard the story of how he killed one of their own.

Crane fumed as he paced Doctor Wiggins lab. Four of his guards were searching the compound, but Crane held little hope that they would find the wayward Doctor. Crane saw that the two working prototypes he had inspected were no longer in the lab, and he knew that somehow Wiggins and Collins had fled. Damn his appetites. If he hadnt spent so much time with Charlie he could have stopped the two from running. Crane saw all of his carefully laid plans crumbling around him. He saw red, but he no longer fought it. He used it to hone his thoughts. To try and decipher what was going on. Wiggins or Collins must have been plants, maybe both of them. But who were they working for? It had to be the FBI. They were the ones that shut down Olsen, just when Crane was going to join! Damn it. That would mean the government knew everything! Damn, damn, damn, damn, damn! Crane came back to himself, and looked down. His hands were around the dead throat of the guard that had stayed with him. He pushed the guard away, and walked out of the lab. He used his phone to call in the other guards. It wasnt safe here any longer. He went to his own quarters here at the complex, and stuffed his notes in a briefcase. As long as he had the formula he could start over. His hand hovered over the button labeled last rights on his desk. No, no one here could do any more damage than had already been done. Let the government have them. Crane grabbed his briefcase and left, meeting his guards on the way. They wisely chose not to mention that they were now four.

XX There are Endings

One Federal Express box containing: 5 floppy diskettes 4 external hard drives 1 evidential letter 1 envelope Jane reviewed the contents of the evidence box against the receipt, ticking off each item as she counted it. When she was satisfied she closed the box and taped it shut. Sign here please. She handed her clipboard to the lawyer. He took it and signed, not even reading it over. She sighed at his sloppy attitude and signed her own name. She tore two copies from the middle of the receipt, handing one to the lawyer and taping the other to the evidence box. That does it then, she said putting the clipboard on top of the box, and taking both under her arm. Thank you very much, Mister Nelson. Hey, wait! Nelson said as Jane turned to leave. Youre not taking that without me. Jane looked into the lawyers eyes. She recognized that glint. She saw it in everyone who had ever told her, Ive always wanted to be a cop. those people lived for catching criminals. They gave their whole lives to it. It was food, air and water to them, like drugs to a junkie. Man, you got it bad. She told him, shaking her head and smiling at his confused look. Ok, come on. Just a minute, he said holding up a finger, Sherry, tell my dad to take my cases, you can brief him. Ill be back when I can. He rushed past his confused secretary, and returned throwing a jacket over his shoulder. But, Mister Nelson, Sherry began, but Robert Nelson had already made it out the door. Sherry looked a question at Jane. Jane just smiled and shrugged. See ya, Sherry. Jane said, and then she too left. Hell, he may even make a good cop. The ones that had the bug usually were.

Down there. Greg said into the helicopters headset, pointing down at the ground. Alex looked down, and nodded. He checked the radio receiver one more time just to confirm. They had started a spiral search pattern from the center of town, and had worked their way outward. Most of the day had been spent clearing the city. After they refueled, Alex had insisted that they start from the research compound. They got a hit right away, and followed the van for a couple of miles just to make sure. Do you think theyve seen us? Alex asked. Were kind of hard to miss, Alex. Greg replied. Alex knew it was true. The radio trackers weak signal meant that they had to stay close to the ground while they searched. A mile may seem like a long drop, but its not that far for sound or sight. But why werent they speeding up? Why? Alex chewed on that thought for a while. It kept popping into his head, an itch he had to scratch. Hes not in the van. Alex said finally realizing what had happened. What do you mean? Tom asked from the back. Alex turned to look at him. They arent speeding up. If they know were up here, the first instinct is to run. They arent running, theyre leading. Damn it! Joe shouted, getting a punch in the shoulder from Tom for almost bursting everyones eardrums. Joe ignored them and stuck his head out the open side, looking around as if he would be able to spot a person on foot through the tree cover. Weve got to stop the van, Greg. Alex said to the pilot. Cant, Alex, too much cover. Alex looked ahead, following the road with his eyes. There, he pointed to a crossroads up ahead. Set us down there. Thats a tight fit, Alex. Greg protested. Just do it, Greg! Greg looked at Alex, but Alexs attention was on the van trying to judge if they would make it in time to stop it. Hang on, fellas, Greg said, this could get rough. Despite the warning their landing was gentle, Greg is an exceptional pilot. The men poised in the open side of the helicopter, waiting. The van approached the crossroads and slowed, rolling to a stop just twenty feet from the helicopter. Driver, Alex said through the helicopters loud speaker, Turn off the van and step out of the vehicle. Turn around and keep your hands in the air, Alex ordered when the driver complied, Walk backwards toward the sound of my voice. The

driver stumbled a couple times, but made it to the helicopter. Tom left his position in the door to secure and search the prisoner. Passengers, open the door and step out of the van, one at a time. The side door to the van opened and one by one Alex brought the four guards to the helicopter for capture. Jessie and Tom cautiously approached the van, and gave the all clear when they had searched it. Alex took the driver and walked back to the van. Where is he? Alex yelled over the sound of the helicopters motor. We let him go, about a mile outside the compound. The prisoner yelled back. Hes on foot in the woods somewhere. Alex put his headset back on. Tom, you and Jessie take the prisoners back in the van. Greg, get us ready, we need to get back. Greg nodded and returned to the pilots seat. After the others helped Tom and Jessie load the prisoners into the back of the van, they headed back to the helicopter. Alex! Alex stopped in his tracks, and looked around. That was his sisters voice. What is it? Joe asked through the headsets. Alex just shook his head, and got into the co-pilots chair. He had to fight to ignore his sisters voice, pleading with him to catch her killer, all the way back to the office. We lost him. Alex told Hector when they had returned. They were all meeting in the squad room. Alex told Hector and the rest of the crew what had happened. So, were back to square one. Hector sounded dejected. He had harbored a secret wish that Alex had killed the son of a bitch. Ok, Hector said, its late. Everyone get some rest, well start again tomorrow. The assembled agents grumbled, but slowly broke apart. You too, Alex, Hector said as he got up to leave. You look like you need it. Joe, make him leave. Hector said when it was apparent that Alex was ignoring him. Joe nodded his head, and looked at Alex. Alex was staring into empty space, lost in his own troubled thoughts. Alex, his sisters voice pestered him, Alex the house. Please, Alex, please help me. Alex screamed and pounded a fist into the desk. Joe jumped up from the chair he had been napping in. Alex had been staring blankly at nothing for at least an hour now. Lucky for Alex the office was empty. Jesus, Alex, Joe chided, What the hells wrong with you? Alex hung his head, tears of frustration falling to the desk. Its Hanna, Joe, Alex whispered, I keep hearing Hannas voice.

Jesus, Joe put a hand on Alexs shoulder and squeezed. What could he say? What do you do at a time like this? Alexs head snapped up, a feral smile forming on his lips. The house, She keeps saying, the house, the fucking farm house, Joe. Alex leapt to his feet. He pulled his pistol and checked the clip. Well? Alex asked when he saw that Joe wasnt moving, Are you coming or not? Youve lost it, buddy. Joe told him, shaking his head. You really believe your dead sister is telling where to find Crane? Im going, Joe, are you coming or staying? Joe noticed that Alex avoided the question. He thought about it, and decided he had better go along. If nothing else to keep Alex from killing any vagrants that had taken up residence there. Yea, sure, Alex, Im coming. Joe scrawled a quick note for Hector and then followed Alex out of the office. I just know Im going to regret this. Joe thought to himself, and then, What the hell, going to catch the bad guys, boss. He got into the car smiling at his own joke.

Jo and Cody shared the silence and the warmth of the farm house, while they waited for Willy and Melinda to return. It surprised Jo that Melinda had wanted to go hunting, but the girl had been cooped up way too long. The fresh air would do her good. Aunt Jo, do you think well ever get to live in the city again? Cody asked. The two were sitting in front the fire, drowsing. I dont think I want to anymore, Cody. Jo told her. It doesnt feel like home anymore. Can I live with you? Jo took Codys hand and gave it a squeeze. I wouldnt have it any other way, dear. Cody smiled at her, and went back to staring at the fire. Jo heard the creak of the porch boards and turned. Thinking to see Willy and Melinda, it took her a moment to realize who she was seeing. Cody caught her Aunts mood and turned to look. The blood left her face and she began to tremble. Jo smelled urine as Cody wet herself. Oh, this is a happy day. Lieutenant Crane purred, coming fully into the room. He took a quick look around, and returned his attention to the two women now on their knees holding each other, their backs to the flames.

They were beautiful, the only two perfect women in the world. Well he would make Cody perfect. Did you miss me? Cody couldnt speak tears of rage and fear ran down her face. She clung to her aunt, trembling. Jo looked hatred at Crane, her eyes darted around the room, searching for anything she could use as a weapon. Get out of here, Crane! Jo hissed at him. He paused, a confused look coming over his face. Dont you love me, Jo? After everything Ive done for you? Jo could see the madness boiling in his eyes. A vein in his forehead throbbed in time to his heartbeat. He cocked his head to the right, listening. A moment latter Jo heard the car. Crane backed up to the broken window, and took a quick look outside. He frowned in thought, and then smiled down at Jo and Cody, putting a finger across his pursed lips, telling them to remain silent. He moved to the center of the room, turning to face the window. Jo heard car doors open. Crane! A voice yelled from outside, I know youre in there, Crane! Come on out! Lets settle this! Alex, Crane said loudly, my wayward protg, youve been a bad boy. Crane grinned down at Cody. You know what I do with bad boys, dont you dear? Codys body shook with silent sobs, and Jo pulled her closer trying to shelter her from Cranes madness. Its over, Crane! Alex yelled in, Come on out! I dont thin Crane never got a chance to finish his sentence. A gunshot sounded from the back hall, and then more gunfire broke through the glass of the window, and the front wall of the house. Crane jerked as each bullet found its mark. Cody screamed and Jo pushed her to the ground, lying on top of her until the gunfire stopped. She looked up at Crane. He slowly turned to her as he sank to his knees, his pistol falling from numbed hands. But I love you. He told her. Jo watched the life leave his eyes. He slumped forward, his head rebounding as it hit the floor. Jo looked behind her expecting Willy once more, but Melinda stood in the hall instead. She was still pointing Codys pistol where Crane had been standing. Stop! Jo heard Willys voice from outside, My niece is in there you idiots. Jo rose slowly from the floor, keeping her eyes on Melinda. Melinda appeared to be in shock, taking no notice as Jo gently took the pistol from her trembling hands. Three men burst into the room, Willy ran to scoop up Cody, and Joe bent to check Cranes pulse.

Hes dead. Joe said looking up to Alex. Alex stood stock still, staring at Crane as blood pooled under the body. Alex, help the women. Alex! Alex wasnt responding. Jo saw he looked much like Melinda did, in shock. Damn it! Joe said rising to his feet. He kicked Cranes pistol into a corner, and pulled a phone from his pocket. Hector, we have a situation.

XXI Then there are Endings

Dear Susan, Weve finally gotten settled in. I hope you understand why we had to move. After all that happened, well, Olseada just didnt feel like home. Telusa is nice, though. I got a new job at a law firm, Nelson and Nelson. Right now Im a secretary, but Im going to school. It seems the firm is one lawyer short. Agent Green said that the trial could stretch on for years, but Tier is no more. Good riddance I say. The girls are doing well. As soon as we finished unpacking, Cody put on shorts and a tank top, then climbed every tree in the yard. The neighbors were scandalized. I think she frightens them. Melinda, the poor dear, has blocked the whole thing from her mind. It doesnt matter that in the end, she was the hero. The doctor gave her some medicine for the nightmares, but Willy told her the best healer is time, so she takes them when she wants to, and we just deal with it when she wakes up screaming. I miss you, Susie. I love you. Please get better soon. Love always, JoJo

Dear mom, The new house is nice. Aunt Jo and Willy are planning renovations. Aunt Jo keeps saying theres not enough wood. I dont know what it is with her. I dont remember much of what happened, but I have to go this doctor twice a week. Its a bunch of bull, Mom! I dont feel sick. I just have nightmares sometimes. In one of them I shoot this man I dont even know. I dont even see his face. Hes just this dark shadow. I think its from all the stories that Cody keeps telling. Shes absolutely out of control, Mom. Her scars really are beautiful, but lets face it; they take some getting used to. She runs around in anything that will show them off. I think she likes the looks she gets. Its wrong! She tells me to quit being a baby every time I say something to her, though. Im not a baby, mommy, Im your baby. I love you, Mom. Get well. Aunt Jo decorated your room, mom, its hideous, too much wood. Love you,

Melinda

Mommy, I love it here! You should see my room, its huge! I have this four poster with lace curtains, and Aunt Jo sprang for silk sheets! Its so cool. Youve got to get better, Mom. Melinda is turning into a whiny little girl. Weve got to stop that! She says I like all the people looking at my scars. Can you keep a secret? I really do. Its cool to see their face turn from disgust to delight. And I guess Melinda may be right. I do like the attention. Thats Aunt Jo. She says that I have to be honest with myself, no matter what. Thats real hard to do sometimes. Anyway, I love you, and I want you to come live with us, but the doctors say you have to get a little bit better first. So get better, Mommy. I love you, Cody Lynn P.S. Please tell Doctor Griss thank you again for me. Tell him thank you for being so nice to me. Doctor Ashley Ficks looked up from reading the letters aloud to the small group gathered before her. Susan sat staring, one hand clasping the hand that Agent Bohmer had put on her shoulder. He smiled down at Susan. Its nice to be nice, to me to be. Doctor Griss said from where he sat on her right. Ashley sighed. She sometimes felt that helping Doctor Griss was a lost cause. Yes, it is, Doctor. Ashley told him, patting his knee. Susan, it seems a lot of people want you to get better. I know that JoAnne said you can live with her as soon as you show signs of improvement. How about it, Susan? Would you like to go live with JoAnne? Susan blinked at the Doctor. She looked up at Agent Bohmer and smiled at him. I killed him. She told him. Yes you did, dear, yes you did. Alex smiled down at the woman, and squeezed her shoulder. Agent Bohmer, a word please, Doctor Ficks said, getting up and excusing herself from the group. She led Alex a short distance from the group so they wouldnt be overheard.

You cant keep feeding her delusion like that, Alex. She told him when they were away. Shes not going to get any better if you continue to reinforce the problem. I know, Hanna, Im sorry. Alex said looking down at the floor. Its Doctor Ficks, Alex, my name is Doctor Ficks. Hanna is dead. I know, Im sorry, he looked back up at Ashley, and handed her a box of chocolates. Give her these. Theyre her favorites. Doctor Ficks watched sadly as Alex trudged down the hall, his slippers making a soft whisking noise as he walked away, the belt of his plaid night gown dragging the ground behind him.