Teletech

TeleTech By Jeffrey Stephenson

Penance Discovery Concurrence Adversity Tactics Sustenance Intrigue Relocation Embarrassment Redemption Devastation Recovery Encounters Animosity Collusion Confrontation Persistence Impudence Realization Veracity Desiccation Convocation Commiseration

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Penance Chapter 1

"Phillips, door nine." The speaker belched the name and destination. Ted rose sluggishly from the rigid chair and trudged across the crowded room. He did not bother masking his depression. Not that anyone would have noticed. Everyone else in the immense and crowded lobby were dealing with their own problems. He was an unobtrusive young man, with short brown hair and brown eyes. His appearance and slender build made it easy for him to blend into a crowd. At twenty-six years old he was not unattractive, just not distinctive. He was accustomed to going unnoticed. That was one reason for his constant efforts to be an achiever, efforts that had brought him to a desirable position with a large and influential corporation, a position that offered almost unlimited potential. Ted entered a long empty corridor and counted the numbered doors to himself as he passed. The echoing of his footsteps made his passage feel even more oppressive. The ninth door was labeled Human Resources and Projects Control. He stopped, took a deep breath, and straightened his posture, but before he could raise his hand to the knob his resolution melted and he slumped again. For a moment he just stared at the gold lettering on the door hoping to regather some composure. How could he have been so foolish? How could he have risked his future on something so stupid? He and Bill had picked the worst possible time to be pranksters. The poor woman hadn't deserved their mischief. She had done nothing wrong. She was just different.

Bill was dismissed from the program and discharged from the company. It seemed like unnecessarily harsh punishment for their offense, but Bill's record did not warrant his getting another chance. Ted, on the other hand, had an exemplary record. The company had rewarded him often for his accomplishments, even those that appeared to have no application for the company. They had kept him waiting a week while they decided how to deal with his dilemma. The agonizing wait alone had seemed a severe penalty to Ted. His dreams of having his pick of the most desirable assignments had slowly evaporated, and now he must face the company’s judgment. He swallowed forcing down the lump of apprehension in his throat, and opened the large mahogany door. The prim, middle-aged, overweight secretary at the desk looked up at him skeptically, and then sarcastically asked. "Phillips?" "Yes." He admitted contritely. She pressed one of the many buttons on her phone and announced his presence. "Mister Phillips is here." Her voice sounded cold and judgmental. "One minute Ruth, we're just finishing." The intercom sputtered back. She pointed to the inner door. "Stand over there." She commanded, and then returned to her work pushing an errant lock of mousy brown hair from in front of her eye, and paying him no more attention. Ted Stared at the top of her head for a moment as she bent over the scattered papers on her desk, but he quickly complied with her explicit command. The inner door swung open a moment later. Ted stepped back and aligned himself with the edge of the open door, so he would not block the opening. A tall, graying, gentleman stepped through. The man had steely green eyes and what, once, must have

been bright red hair. Ted recognized him. This was the man who owned the company, but he was seeing him, in person, for the first time, and under the worst possible conditions. He forced a meek smile. The man stopped for a moment and eyed Ted curiously, shook his head mockingly, then turned back to the open doorway. With a subtle Irish accent he announced. "It's in your hands now. I promised her I'd not get involved." He fixed a harsh glare on Ted. It was a territorial warning. Ted was astonished that Duncan Mackenzie had paid him any attention at all, but he recognized the expression for what it was, and swallowed an even larger lump in his throat. Mister Mackenzie grinned at Ted's reaction, and strode out of the room ignoring the sarcastic reply that issued from the inner office. "It'd take a female to make you back away from a fight." Steven Marsh quipped as he stepped through the door. The dark skinned giant also eyed Ted. Marsh was the head of personnel for the large multi-vested corporation. He was also in charge of training, assignments and overseeing project development. Normally there would be three VPs to do these jobs, but Marsh handled them alone. He decided who got to go where and do what. Marsh had made it a custom to dole out first assignments personally to new employees who successfully completed training. It was something Ted had passionately looked forward to until the incident last week had blown up in his face. Now he faced Marsh with foreboding instead of anticipation. "Theodore." Marsh greeted with amused eyes, but a reproachful voice. This was not what Ted was expecting. The lack of animosity confused Ted. Marsh sensed Ted's

nervous perplexity and continued. "Relax, we stopped burning people at the stake a few years ago." Marsh cocked an eye and watched to see the effect of his statement. Ted did relax a little, and Marsh pointed to a chair. Ted stepped over and sat facing the large desk that dominated the office. "Take a seat. We've got some talking to do." The desk was huge, but not out of place in the room. The office was spacious with high walls and huge windows. The walls on either side had floor to ceiling, finely finished, wood shelves, filled with books, trophies, framed pictures, and some odd keepsakes. The wall behind the desk was almost all glass. Through the partially opened blinds Ted could see only gray sky. He noticed there were no buildings blocking the view. On the few days when the smog did clear he knew the view would be impressive. Diplomas and certificates covered what little remaining wall space there was around the door. Ted sat silent and solemn, expecting each word spoken would deepen his anxiety. Steven Marsh was a large man. Ted knew Marsh had played basketball in college, but had decided not to go professional, even though there were offers. His size would make him an ominous opponent in any sport. Marsh finally sat, but that did not help Ted's nervousness. Even seated Marsh was a head taller than Ted. Marsh spoke with a soft but deep rumbling voice that exaggerated his size. Ted had heard that voice on several occasions, but always before Ted was being praised. "I can see you've been thinking about your predicament." Marsh continued, examining Ted's expression.

Ted swallowed and merely nodded. He was afraid if he spoke now his voice might crack. This moment was going to determine his future. Would all his hard work, all his efforts to get this far have been in vain? Marsh nodded also, he liked Ted. Ted was like a fresh breeze airing out a stuffy room, but there was only so much he could do to help with this mess. "What you don't know," Marsh leaned forward slightly, "is that Miss Mackenzie, the victim of your . . . stunt, is among other things the niece of Talbert Mackenzie. He is, of course, the final word in this company." Ted deflated even more with this surprise. What little hope he had held on to was dashed on craggy rocks of despair. Even his sterling record could not protect him from that level of influence. 'Why didn't I find out who she was?' He silently chastised himself. Marsh smiled at Ted's reaction, knowing how doomed he must feel, and how incredibly lucky he actually was. "You’re being given one alternative to dismissal." Ted's swiftly re-inflated expression amused Marsh, and heightened his interest. He paused, looking for a further reaction. Ted swelled with hope, his eyes brightened. 'I might have a chance after all. What could the alternative be? Probably something worse than dismissal.' He slumped again. Marsh caught the follow-up reaction and continued. "You were defended by an unlikely individual. Miss Mackenzie spoke in your favor. Her influence with upper management was the only thing that saved you. They told her she could take you on, but any more incidents, and they were done with you." This puzzled Ted, he didn't know what that meant. He decided he was doing fine so far by keeping his mouth shut, so he waited for Marsh to continue.

"You probably hadn't heard, but Miss Mackenzie was chosen as the project coordinator for the Psy project in Lovelock." Marsh knew what Ted's reaction would be and watched him closely as he continued. "She needs a good tech' to run that equipment for them. She's offered that position to you, if, you can behave yourself." Ted's mind started to grind at the new facts, and he tried to weigh all the implications. "Lovelock?" Was all that came out of his mouth, but that one word conveyed a lot, shock, fear, depression, and a hint of opportunity. Marsh was amused again by the strong, mixed emotions conveyed by the first word Ted had spoken since coming in. "It might not be as bad as you think. And I'm sure you're aware of the potential of the situation." Ted was aware of the potential. That project was on the tip of everyone's tongue, but most viewed it as a ridiculous waste of resources. It could be a strong stepping-stone, though, if it had any success. Most people he'd talked to figured it was only a pipe dream, and dreaded the prospect of receiving that assigned. Ted also realized his recent work would make him a desirable acquisition for that project. "I thought they were looking for psychics for that place?" Ted stammered feeling he needed to say something. "She said she wanted a non-sensitive to run the electronics." "That place is out in the middle of nowhere." Ted commented, still not sure of all the implications. "That's the whole idea, to get away from any interference, besides more than half the jobs you'd be eligible for would be out in the sticks. That is, you would have been eligible for."

"But, they’re . . . so . . ." Ted could not put what he wanted to say into words. The idea of being cooped up with a group of weird psychics made him cringe. "Have you ever spent any time with one?" Marsh asked, starting to get a little annoyed by Ted's complaints. "Besides what choice do you have?" Ted considered this for a moment, and decided he had little choice. If he said no, he would be throwing away the last three years of training, and finding a job in today's market was reportedly a lost cause. "I guess I don't have much choice at all." He sighed and added. "I suppose it'll give me a chance to make it up to Miss Mackenzie. I do owe her something." "That's better. Who knows? You might enjoy the experience. At least you'd still have a chance with the company." Marsh pulled open a desk drawer and produced a multi-sheet document and passed it over to Ted. "Read this, then sign it." It was not a request. Ted knew when he accepted the document that reading it was pointless. As Marsh had said, he had no choice. He laid the contract down and took the pen from the holder on the desk. He leaned over the desk to sign by the X, but then the pen suddenly slipped from his grasp. Marsh had reached over the desk and pulled the pen from Ted's hand. He placed it back in the holder. "Read the conditions before you sign." He ordered. Ted stared at his hand. It had not been much of a stretch for Marsh to reach him with his long arms. Ted would have had to lie across the desk to have reached that far. He looked up at Marsh's face with its firm but friendly expression.

"I don't want any complaints about this later." He said pointing to the conditions on the lower part of the sheet. Ted leaned forward to read what must certainly be more bad news. After a moment he looked up with an amazed expression on his face. "Two years! Without being able to leave the place! I can't do that, I'll go nuts!" "You can, and you will, it's the only practical choice you've got. Do you know what your accomplice is doing now? He got lucky and found a job, repairing TVs and Stereos." Marsh insisted. Ted's friend had gone from a frontline technician in a high tech corporation to a mere appliance repairman. Marsh raised himself and leaned forward, looming over Ted. Ted leaned back and swallowed, then took the pen again. Marsh settled back into his chair as Ted signed the contract. Now he only wanted one thing, to find the nearest bar and get drunk. "When am I supposed to leave?" He asked, full of self-pity. Leaving would not be an inconvenience, since he had been expecting to leave on a new assignment sometime within the month, and he had prudently been preparing. "There's a plane waiting at the airport." Marsh looked at his watch. "You've got about thirty minutes." Ted's jaw dropped. "What about my things, my apartment, my car?" His eyes were wide with the fear of losing everything he owned. Suddenly his prudence seemed a waste, just as Bill had accused. "I'll take care of everything, there will be a man at the airport to bring your car back. Everything will be put in storage, including the car. If you hurry you’ll have enough time to grab a change of clothes." Marsh sat back deeply into his oversized chair

making himself comfortable. "Have a good trip, and don't disappoint me." He uttered the dismissal turning his attention to his mounded in-basket. He obviously intended to say nothing more.

The plane turned out to be a small corporate twin. It was the least impressive, and oldest aircraft the company owned. Ted had rushed up to have his only bag rudely grabbed and tossed into a luggage compartment in the wing behind the engine. The copilot rushed him into a seat among the six other passengers, all of whom seemed annoyed with him. It was stuffy and hot inside the plane. It smelled of agitated people. The pilot started one engine then the other. A moment later the air-conditioning came on, and the plane started rolling at a brisk pace out onto the taxi strip. The fans blew cool air from the vents, and cooled their tempers as well as their faces. Being ignored by the group suited Ted just fine. He didn't recognize anyone anyway, so he gazed out the window. A moment later they stopped and the pilot announced. "Sorry but I've got to turn off the air until we're over eight thousand feet. These engines have a tendency to overheat otherwise. With luck that'll take only a few minutes." With that, the vents went dead, and they sat and waited their turn to take off. Ted got another round of accusing looks, so he turned his attention back outside. A few minutes later tempers were on the verge of exploding in the stuffy cabin. He shrugged his shoulders and offered a 'sorry about that grin'. It didn't have much effect, so he rifled through the magazines stuffed into the seat back in front of him, trying to find something interesting. The person in that seat turned and glared at him. Fortunately, before Ted was

chastised, the pilot turned and spoke around the cockpit partition, informing them that they were next to go, and they wouldn't have to wait long. A few minutes later they had climbed above the sun-baked, smoggy, Los Angles basin, and the vents started blowing cool air again. Table of Contents

Discovery Chapter 2

The plane hopped all over California dropping off and picking up passengers. Five hours later they descended into Reno, and landed with Ted as the only passenger. The pilot approached Ted. "Time for dinner. Be back in an hour." Ted's nerves had upset his stomach, so he opted not to eat. He made his way to a little shop in the terminal and purchased a few books. 'Might as well stock up while I've got the chance.' He didn't know what he would find when he got to Lovelock. For all he knew it was just some dusty building in the middle of the desert. He sat on a bench opposite a large glass wall that looked out on the airport and the mountains beyond. He opened a book but decided he was not in a reading mood, and closed it after only a few words. The magnificent view out the large picture window drew him, so he drifted closer to the glass. He wistfully let his imagination lift him, and take him soaring over the impressive mountains to the west, floating just below the clouds with a breathtaking perspective of the dramatic Sierra Nevada Mountains. Then a soft female voice called from close behind vaporizing the enticing image. "Hello Mister Phillips." Ted froze for a moment as his mind replaced his feet abruptly and firmly back on the terminal's floor. He knew no one in this area. He turned slowly, to find an attractive young woman, with long wavy red hair, and bright green eyes. She stood facing him with her hands clasped behind her back. Her rather plain, pale orange jumpsuit didn't flatter

her figure, but could not hide it either. A momentary grin in appreciation for her unembellished beauty appeared, and then faded. He had not expected to see Rose Mackenzie, not until he had arrived at the project. "Ah . . . Hi, Miss Mackenzie." He stammered through the greeting. They were about the same age, and under normal circumstances he would be attracted to her, but he was under a double obligation. First, he owed her for the embarrassment he had caused her when he and Bill had played that foolish prank. Second, she was his new supervisor. Consequently, when he looked at her all he allowed himself to see was obligation. "Just Rose, we are going to be working together." Her voice was soft and lilting, almost musical. She was slightly shorter than Ted, but the way she held herself brought her eyes even with his. "I guess the first thing I should do, is apologize." He replied recovering his wits. "And next, I should thank you for saving my butt . . . I mean, my career." She blushed, and looked down, but her smile warmed him. "I'm used to being misunderstood." She stated just above a whisper avoiding his eyes. It seemed this meeting was almost as difficult for her as it was for him. "Besides," she offered lifting her face again, "when I reviewed your file I saw a situation I couldn't help but take advantage of. Your qualifications are much higher than I would have gotten for my project normally. And Steven thought it would be a wonderful solution to a terrible situation." She stopped suddenly, feeling she had been rambling. "I knew Marsh had forced this." Ted slandered.

"No, it was my idea." She interrupted then continued softly. "He thinks a lot of you. He seemed very happy to find a way to keep from having to let you go." She stopped, again fearing she had said too much too soon. "Yeah, I like him too. He's a good man. I guess I'm just a little miffed at my fate." Ted relented, and then realized he might have insulted her, but she did not appear to take it that way. After a moment of silence he changed the subject. "You excited? I mean about getting your own project right out of training." She eyed him momentarily trying to decide if there was a hidden jab at her. Was he accusing her of using nepotism? She decided he was just trying to be friendly. "More like terrified. If I blow it, everyone will say I only got the position because of my family." She answered allowing her tension to dispel. "Yep, tough situation." He decided he liked her, and he was going to have to do something to make up for that regrettable prank. "Guess we'll just have to succeed then." He offered with a beaming heartfelt smile. He suddenly felt good about his assignment, possibly even excited.

After flying over many miles of barren desert the plane descended to circle over a compound. Ted was relieved when he saw the project site, and found it exciting to observe the oasis for the first time from the air. This was where he would be living for the next two years. It was much more than he could have dared to hope for. A cyclone fence surrounded one hundred and twenty acres, most of it landscaped. Some landscaping was lush and green, especially around the buildings. The rest was natural desert vegetation, but with trails and occasional benches. There was a tennis court, and a large pool with a

rich green lawn surrounding it. The building next to the pool and tennis court appeared to be a large ranch house. Opposite the house from the pool about fifty yards away was a huge barn, with a corral to one side. A small shed sat behind the tennis court, probably a pump house. There were two more buildings off to one side. One looked like a garage, with large roll-up doors. The last building was a blockish 'T' shaped building with no windows and a flat gray roof. A paved road led across the desert and up to the compound, but turned to dirt just short of the distinctive rock pillars, that bordered the gate. The road snaked through the buildings, which were located at the center of the compound, and continued past the barn to an almost unnoticeable gate on the opposite side. The road also wrapped around both sides of the compound, outside the fence, making a distinct border from the air. There were only two gates, and from his perspective the site resembled a fortress. Despite its protected appearance from the air it looked like a resort, a dude ranch perhaps. "How'd you rate something like that?" He raised his voice to be heard over the whine of the engines. He noticed immediately that she did not appreciate the way he had phrased his question. "What do you mean by that?" Rose thundered, her temper burning in her eyes. "Whoa, settle down. I didn't mean anything! But you've gotta admit, that's quite a spread. It's more than you'd expect for a research project." Ted indicated the compound by jerking his head toward the window. She still looked suspicious, so he tried again. "Hey, I'm on your side. If we're going to be working together, we've got to be able to trust each other."

Rose softened a little forcing her eyes down. "I'm sorry, but you caught me off guard." She paused a moment still concerned that he might think she was using family connections to get what she wanted. It was an attitude she knew she had to get over. She continued objectively. "This place was donated by a friend, someone who believes in the project." She looked up flashed a meek smile, and then quickly added. "We, the company that is, built two new buildings for him, in exchange for exclusive use for two years." Ted nodded with understanding. "I didn't notice anyone around." He looked back out the window hoping to change the subject and hurdle the awkwardness. "The caretakers pulled out this morning, and we're the first ones here from the project." She sighed. "We've got a lot to do before the others arrive tomorrow evening." With a nod of frustration she went over the list of chores in her mind. "No rest for the wicked." He blurted, and then wondered if she might take offense at that comment too. When he looked back, Rose was smiling. She had not taken it personally. He smiled back. "I'm sorry I jumped at you before. It’s just this darn Irish temper I inherited. Some day it’s going to get me in real trouble." She reached out and touched his hand. "Friends?" He looked down at her hand on his, and smiled. "Friends!" She pulled her hand back, almost embarrassed, and then straightened her posture and spoke with conviction. "I hereby authorize you to kick my behind the next time I lose control. Provided I'm not justified, of course." They chuckled and Ted added. "I'll hold you to that." Their friendship was building a solid foundation over the ruins of their unfortunate initial encounter.

The plane landed several miles away at an airport near the small town of Lovelock Nevada, and they loaded their luggage into a van that had been left for them. They drove away after watching the plane takeoff. It was almost a thirty-minute drive to the compound, and the sun was approaching the horizon when they arrived. "Leave the bags for now. Let’s get something to eat first, I'm starved." Rose said as she parked the van beside the house. "Suits me fine, I haven't had anything since breakfast." Ted answered agreeably following her around the corner of the house. Rose led the way to the kitchen through the back door by the pool. They stepped into a breakfast nook adjoining the kitchen. It was a large, modern, well-equipped kitchen. Ted could find nothing it lacked. He watched idly as she started pulling utensils and groceries out of the cabinets. "Start making a salad, I'll show you around later." Rose ordered, noticing his curiosity. "You're the boss." He answered taking a knife she had set out and attacking the vegetables with an aggressive attitude and a sinister grin. "You like big chunks or little chunks?" She smiled at his antics and replied. "Big chunks, please." They sat in the nook and silently devoured their salads while their dinner cooked. Ted could not help noticing the serene atmosphere outside. The soft pinkish light of dusk muted the desert harshness, making it look beautiful and relaxing. Rose looked up from

her salad and saw his faraway gaze. She slid off the chair and scurried into the kitchen, to check their dinner. Ted drifted back from his daydream, and noticed Rose in the kitchen. "How's it doin’?" He asked. "Few more minutes." She answered closing the oven door. He sighed, and hastily turned his attention back out the window. 'Daydreams are safer than redheads', he warned himself, still not sure what to think of her. She had offered him a job working in close quarters with her after he had publicly humiliated her. By all rights she should hate him, but she like him, or was it just business? After all he was much better than the tech she probably would have drawn. She is attractive though. 'No, no hanky-panky!' He told himself. 'Course if she started something.' He stopped his rampant imagination and concentrated on the vanishing desert as it faded into darkness. With his elbows braced on the table he set his face in his hands. He sighed in resignation to his questions and let his chin slide farther into his supporting palms. Rose sighed also then noticed she was staring at him. ‘How could he be the one? Could Ann have made a mistake?’ She would have to question Ann again. Ann had told her she would meet her soul mate, when he caused her grievous embarrassment. He had certainly done that. Denial and procurement were to be her initial reactions. She had said something about competition too. It had to be. It was to close to the prediction, or maybe it was just self-fulfilling prophecy, or planted suggestion. 'Ann's going to love this.' Ann's precognitive power was the strongest Rose had ever heard of. Even the police listened when she predicted. "I wish she hadn't told me." Rose mumbled to herself. "What's that?" Ted asked, startled out of his daydream by her voice.

"I was just mumbling to myself." She flushed. "Didn't burn dinner did ya?" "No!" She answered indignantly. "Won't be ready for a couple minutes." She added to cover her temper. She wondered if he remembered his promise to kick her if she let her temper flare. "Anything I can do?" Ted asked hoping to smooth over any provocation. "No, just relax, you'll get your turn. We'll all have to take turns cooking and cleaning and all that. No domestics here, just us." "Can't afford a cook, huh? Spent all your budget on this spread?" Ted noticed her stiffen with his taunt, and he wagged his index finger at her warningly. "Don't make me keep that promise." 'So, he did remember.' She would have to be careful around him.

After dinner they went out to the van and got their bags. More than once that evening, they fumbled through close moments. Leaning into the van simultaneously, they had found themselves nose to nose, their bodies touching. Ted had smiled grabbed his bag and eased back out. Rose had merely frozen, expression and all, until Ted had moved away. At the kitchen door Ted had tried to open the door for Rose and found his hand on top of hers. Later Rose stopped to turn on a light in a dark hallway. She had whirled too quickly when asking Ted if he preferred a poolside room. He had barely stopped in time to keep from running her over. They were again nose-to-nose. It had been a provocative and frustrating evening for both of them.

As she usually did, Rose got up early, intending to jog around the compound. She had calculated that if she ran to the fence from the house, followed the fence around the perimeter, then ran back to the house, she would have run almost two miles. All the poolside rooms had French doors. She opened hers and stepped out taking a deep breath, arching her back and stretching her arms, and then bent to touch her toes. She was suddenly aware of Ted sprawled on the deck, stretching his legs. "Mornin' sleepyhead." He greeted. A sensual wave rolled through her body. He was wearing only a brief pair of shorts. She found herself inspecting every muscle. Then realized she was still holding the deep breath she had first take, and she slowly let it out, and wondered about her own outfit. Was it too brief? 'This is ridiculous. I'm being way to self-conscious.' With that thought dispelled she took off leaving Ted behind. "Morning." She dropped her reply as she swept by. "Hey, wait up." Ted called, grabbing his shirt off a nearby table, and throwing it on as he jogged after her. He was glad she didn't wait. It gave him more of a chance to watch her from behind as he caught up. 'It's going to be hard to keep my mind off her.' "How far ya going?" He questioned when he caught up. They charged out of the lush lawn area by the pool, and weaved through the desert landscaping on a small trail toward the fence. "To the fence, then around the perimeter." She struggled trying not to sound winded, wishing she had stretched too. "Two miles, huh?" She glanced over her shoulder at him, ‘so, he calculated it also.’ "Yes, two."

"You know, you really should have done some stretching. Makes the first part much easier." Knowing her answer would only prove him right she pushed on silently, increasing her pace, which was tricky on the winding path. When she reached the fence, she knew she had pushed too hard in the beginning for running this distance. She came up with a scheme to get a breather though, and stopped. She looked both ways, and then spoke between quick choppy breaths. "Which way, do, you think, we, should go?" She was elated when Ted stopped to survey the grounds before answering. Obviously he had not thought about that, or perhaps he was just cutting her some slack. Either way she got what she needed without losing face. Ted took his time looking around, and noticed Rose's winded condition. "That ridge, is shadowing, part, of the path." He answered allowing himself to sound a little winded also. "If we go to the right, it'll block the sun, while we’re, over there." He paused again. "To the left, we’d probably be, in the Sun, the whole time." Rose nodded. "To the left." She took a deep breath. "We better get going, before we stiffen up." She took off knowing her muscles were loose now, and she could hold a respectable pace. Ted ran silently beside her. The two miles passed quickly. As they wound back toward the house along the narrow footpath, Rose slowly increased the pace. Feeling competitively provoked Ted broke into a sprint as soon as the trail widened enough for him to pass her. He ran across the lawn, bounded onto the deck, and leaped to the end of the diving board. Springing high into the air, he tucked himself into a tight ball.

Rose could see all of this as she followed at a more sedate pace. She gasped putting her hands to her mouth, and pulled to a stop. Rose knew the dive, as kids they had called it the Cannonball. Used typically to create the largest splash possible. What alarmed Rose was that Ted apparently had slipped on his spring from the board, and was going to enter the water flat on his back. From her recollection, that was not at all desirable. Ted's splash was impressive, causing several gallons to spray out onto the lawn and deck. "Come on in." He called as he breached the surface, obviously unscathed. "Don't you think you should warm down first?" She dropped her hands and resumed a slow jogging pace. "I'll do a few laps in here, come on!" He enticed. The pool did look very inviting, and the refreshed grin on his wet face seriously tempted her. She decided to maintain a refined posture and warm down by the book. Besides she wasn't dressed appropriately for a swim. "No thanks." She replied as she jogged passed the pool and around the tennis court, continually slowing as she went. When she came around to the pool again, she was down to a walk. Ted was passively swimming laps in the pool. "We do have some work to do today." She called as he swam toward her. Ted pulled up to the side of the pool and put his elbows out on the deck, resting his chin on his hands. He assumed a lost puppy dog expression with soft begging eyes. "Do I have to get out now?" He mimicked the whine of a pleading child. Rose feigned annoyance, as she unsuccessfully fought off a smile. She crossed her arms and looked down at him. "All right, a few minutes more." He yelled a cheer and

splashed her. Before she could scold him, he swam away along the bottom of the pool toward the other side. 'I hope he can be serious at his work.' She quipped to herself, but she was finding it harder and harder to fight off her attraction for him.

Rose had shown Ted everything in the compound except the research building. So far nothing had surprised him much. He assumed she was saving the best for last. They approached the blockish building, and Ted noticed the odd construction. It was made of long, narrow, adobe bricks, and the holes where the windows should have been were framed with a trim brick, but the openings were bricked in solid. "What's the deal with the windows?" Ted asked, amused by the thought of bothering to make holes for windows, then filling them in with bricks. Rose answered without looking as she shuffled for the right key and walked toward the building. "It was part of the deal for getting to use this place. The building had to be built so it could be converted when we're done." She found the right key just as they reached the door. The door was made of heavy steel, and looked strong enough to withstand a direct military assault. "We expectin’ trouble?" Rose flashed a puzzled glance at Ted, not understanding his question. He tried again. "The door." Her puzzlement remained, so he added, "This place looks like a fortress." "Oh!" Then she turned back, unlocking the door, and swinging it open. The door creaked slightly, testifying to its weight. The real surprise for Ted was the door's thickness. The door itself was three inches thick.

"It's not for security, it's for isolation." The door started slowly closing itself, Rose hurried inside and Ted followed. The door eased shut with a solid 'thunk'. They stood in a small well-lit entry room. It was about eight feet square with shelves, hooks, and benches along either side. Ted recognized it as an airlock, typical of some of the winter resorts he had visited. It was an area to transition from the extreme weather outside to the comfort inside. The air inside was cooler, not cold, just comfortable. Opposite the door they had entered through was another, the same type of heavy door, only it had a small wired glass window. The view of the inside was blocked by something covering the other side. Rose unlocked the second door then opened it. This one had six inches of rigid foam insulation covering the inside. After the door had closed itself behind them, Rose grabbed two small handles attached to the door's insulation. She pulled away a plug to reveal the window. "This way we can check who's in the airlock before we open the door. Pull those handles." She directed pointing to two similar handles located where the doorknob should have been. Ted pulled the other plug to reveal a regular doorknob and two dead bolt locks. "I only saw one dead bolt on the other side." He curiously studied the arrangement. "That's right, the top one can only be operated from this side. We don't want to be interrupted in the middle of a test sequence. Let's put these back and I'll show you the rest of the place." After she had replaced the plug, she turned and walked down one of two hallways. One led to the right, the other to left. The hallways stretched from the large central room they had entered from the airlock. They found three doors down the hall. Behind each door was an office with a desk, a computer terminal, and a lamp. Each office also had a small closet and a freestanding rack of shelves filled mostly with reference

books. After inspecting the rooms and their contents they walked back to the large central room. Rose pointed across the room to the other hallway. "The other side is the same. And this." She held out her arms to either side suggesting the entire central room. "This is your control room. Most of your equipment is here." Ted looked around. The room was completely empty, except for a wheeled office chair against the wall. Directly across the room was a door that looked as if it belonged in a submarine. It was set into a recessed section of the wall. The rest of the walls were covered with unusual wood panels. "Okay, I give, where's the gear, behind the paneling?" He asked jokingly, throwing up his arms in mock exasperation. Rose grinned mischievously, and handed Ted a small black remote. It looked as if it might belong to a TV, or video recorder. "What's this?" Ted blurted, wondering if she was pulling his leg. "They told me to bring you to the control room and give you that. Said you wouldn't have any trouble figuring it out." She announced in a challenging tone. Ted looked down at the slender control in his hand. He glanced through the button labels. "Let's try turning the power on." He looked around trying to decide where to aim the infrared device. When he looked at Rose for a clue, she just shrugged her shoulders, offering no explanation. He held the power button down and spun himself around in a whimsical pirouette. A mechanical voice softly fell from the ceiling. "Enter security code." They looked at each other quizzically, and Rose shrugged her shoulders again. A sinister smile appeared on Ted's face. "You're a lotta help." He bantered, and Rose responded with a challenging grin. "Well, either they entered a code I should be able to guess, orrrrrr . . ." He stretched the word as he mulled over his thoughts. "More

likely, whatever I enter now will be the permanent code. Hummm . . ." He looked at Rose displaying his most mischievous grin. "What's your birthday?" She only cocked her eyebrows reluctant to answer. "Oh come on, we'll take the day and year you were born and the month I was born. That will give us a number we should both be able to remember, without being too obvious." Ted knew his argument was sound, and set his jaw daring her to refute his logic. Rose smirked, but decided it would be childish and petty not to tell him after he had offered a reasonable explanation. "Three, twenty-three, eighty-three." "Okay!" Ted gloated, sounding a little too victorious. "I was born in October. That would be three, one, zero, eight, three." Before he could enter the numbers, Rose interrupted, grabbing his arm. "Hey, wait a minute. What's your birthday?" Ted feigned surprise and shock, but before he could object Rose added, "Fair's fair, I told you mine!" Ted chuckled, but Rose’s face was set with serious intent, and he decided he'd teased her enough. "Okay, okay, October seventh, nineteen, eightyyyyy," Rose flashed a warning with her eyes. She was suddenly fed up with Ted's clowning, and tired of his taunting. "two." Ted suddenly felt foolish and Rose's face showed she felt similar. He lowered his eyes a moment, wishing he had a stronger intuition for knowing when to quit. He held up the controller and sullenly announced each number as he punched it. "Three, one, zero, eight, three. That should be easy enough to remember." He offered sounding apologetic. The voice from the ceiling replied, "Code accepted." Ted swelled with confidence and the tension faded. Now he felt he was getting somewhere. Next he pushed the button

marked 'open 1'. With a subtle sliding noise the unusual wood paneling slid smoothly into the ceiling, revealing two sophisticated monitoring stations. One station was located on each side of the room. "Whoa! Now that's cool." His eyes bulged. He was very impressed. The equipment was state of the art. He was almost as impressed with the concealing panels as he was with the extravagant equipment. With building excitement he pressed the 'open 2' button. "Enter security code two." The enigmatic voice from above prompted. Ted turned to Rose again, but this time she was ready. "How about two, two, two, zero, two." "OK." He was a little surprised by her instant response, but quickly nodded and pushed the buttons. "Two, two, two, zero, and two." "Code accepted." The hissing of hydraulics coming from the submarine door followed the reply. Ted's expression resembled that of a young child's on Christmas morning. Rose smiled also. It was obvious he was having fun. They walked over and pulled the door open and peered into the mysterious chamber. The only light came from the doorway they were peering through. In the center of the murky shaft of light sat what looked like an exotic dental chair. It cast eerie shadows on itself and across the floor, creating an ominous air in the room. Ted and Rose turned to study each other's expression. Ted broke their revere first. "Whoever designed this place must have been trained in Hollywood."

"Does kind of look like something from a science fiction film." Rose muttered, then she straightened and added with professional conviction, "But it's exactly what we need."

By the end of the day Ted had gone through all the equipment, and run all the diagnostic programs. He was feeling quite comfortable with his new toys. Rose had left him to his fiddling and discovering, while she tied up a few loose ends back at the house. Everything seemed ready for the rest of the project members, who were scheduled to arrive that evening at the airport. Ted and Rose ate, silently contemplating the meeting with the rest of the projects' members, people they would be living and working with for the next two years. Rose had been through everyone's files a dozen times, and she thought she was ready. Ted on the other hand knew nothing other than ten more people, all psychics, were supposed to show up tonight. The dining room was set up for the meeting, with note pads, pencils, lists, and schedules, laid out for each individual. Rose seemed to have covered everything. Ted wondered how the others would accept him. After all he would be the only one who wasn't psychically talented. He was not as concerned as he had been, though. After all, Rose was psychically talented, and she was turning out to be okay.

Shortly after dark the two project vans drove away from the airport with their cargo of unusual, even unlikely individuals. Ted was not sure what to think of them. He had been quite surprised by the group. He was not sure what he had expected, but he knew he could not have dreamed up a wilder group if he had tried. Every one of them

was an original and unforgettable character. Ted glanced at the tall, lean, East Indian gentleman sitting in the other front seat, and a smile crept over his face as he remembered the man's stumbling departure from the plane. He had jumped out of the plane even before the steps were all the way down, dropped to his knees, and kissed the tarmac. Ted thought the man was such a caricature that he might have stepped right out of a cartoon. They were all unusual and provocative. There was the huge Caribbean man with jet-black skin and braided hair, a tall militaristic woman with a Russian accent, a short Frenchman who seemed to be constantly hitting on the closest female. Maybe Marsh was right. 'Maybe I will enjoy this. With a group like this, things are bound to be interesting.' Ted smiled to himself as he drove through the gate to the compound. He studied the intriguing patterns the headlights made as they reflected off the dust kicked up by the other van, and he wondered about their future.

Table of Contents

Concurrence Chapter 3

The twelve members of the project were seated around the dining room table, but it was not a typical dinning room. With no chandelier or china hutch, and being twice the size of a normal dinning room, it felt more like a conference room. Ted sat at one end of the table intrigued by the unusual company gathered before him. Rose stood at the head of the table confident and appeased with her situation. This was the beginning of her first project and she was bound and determined to make it consequential. She knew that true success in a project like this did not mean accomplishing a pre-described task. In fact the prescribed task could sometimes turn out to be of little or no value to the company. It was the spin-offs and chance discoveries that made these projects profitable. Her job was to keep her people as active and productive as possible, in hopes of stumbling onto that impressive discovery that the company was hoping for. She recalled the grueling hours she had spent reviewing the fifty-three applicants that had responded to the company's queries. She had wanted an even spread of different talents. She had also tried to pick people from various cultures to expand the projects insights, but most important in her selection process was the strength of the individual's psychic talent. "Let me formally welcome all of you here." Rose initiated. "First I want to spell out the rules. There are only a few rules." She quickly added as she noticed a few faces tense up. "Most of our policies we will make up as we go." She looked at each face to

ensure their attention. "The most important rule, which all of you were made aware of before you came here, is isolation. There will be no outside contact. Second, we will have no politics. We are all equal partners in this project, as of now nothing of the outside world matters. If we can't communicate and work on an equal level, we're doomed to fail from the start." Rose looked around again, and then continued. "Next, you will all choose a name, only one name will be used here. Last, we will avoid discussing our pasts as much as is practical. All we are concerned with is the here and now." She paused scanning the group. "Now. I would like each of you to introduce yourself. Please stand, state the name you wish to use, and describe your talents." She smiled congenially at the group. "I'll start." She took a deep relaxing breath then began. "I'm Rose. I'm a weak telekinetic. I can move light objects like this pencil." Rose closed her eyes and strained every muscle in her body. After a few seconds she gulped a breath and strained a little harder. Finally the pencil trembled, and moved slightly. She relaxed bracing herself by grabbing the table with both hands and took several deep breaths. While Rose was catching her breath Ted looked around to see the reactions of the others. A few smiled, most showed nothing at all. Ted had seen Rose's act before. She had been practicing quite a bit the last two days. He had been totally amazed by her performance. 'If that failed to impress them, this ought to be quite a show.' He thought to himself, sat back, crossed his arms, and settled in for the rest of the demonstrations. Rose continued, her breath now under control again. "I am also strongly health conscious. You have a rapid heart." She pointed to the East Indian gentleman, who nodded acceptance of the fact. "I promise not to probe anyone without permission. His

condition is rather obvious though." She smiled and looked at the woman on her right. "Your turn." Rose sat and everyone turned his or her attention to the next speaker. The woman stood to speak. She was tall, fair skinned, and looked powerful, but not heavy. She was shapely and attractive with short, straight, black hair. Her brown eyes were almost black, and as hard as steel. She had a military air about her, and gave the impression that she could handle herself in any situation. "I am Tanya." She spoke with a strong Russian accent. "I am strong telekinetic." She looked at the pencil in front of her, and it immediately lifted off the table, turned horizontally then vertically. Tanya reached out and firmly grabbed the pencil out of the air. She allowed a wisp of a smile to form, and then cleared it from her face. Ted's jaw dropped. Her combination of beauty and magic had awed him. Through the entire process she had shown no sign of strain, leading Ted to believe she could handle larger and heavier objects as well. She sat stiffly and turned her head to the man who sat to her right. Next was the short olive skinned man with the French accent. "I am Paul, I am alzo telekinetic." He put his hand out above his pencil, and when he moved his hand the pencil followed as if drawn by an invisible string. He stopped the pencil next to the stack of papers, and tilted his hand. The pencil also tilted standing on its point. Then the pencil dropped, and Paul shrugged and fell back into his chair with exhaustion. Ted noticed the sweat running down his forehead. He must have shot his wad trying to equal Tanya's performance. The tall Indian gentleman was seated next to Paul. He was lanky and slim, with a prodigious nose that seemed to overwhelm his face. He moved with an economy of effort

that Ted found common among people from hot climates. His short brown hair was trimmed and neat. He put his hand on Paul's shoulder, and Paul immediately straightened, with renewed vitality. Paul stared wide eyed at the hand as it left his shoulder, then looked at the now standing man beside him. "I am Ben." He said in a singsong East Indian accent. "My talent is healing and sensing health, like Miss Rose." He smiled graciously at everyone then turned his eyes to Paul. Paul just sat silently staring at Ben. Ben raised his eyebrows, and then widened his smile with accepting approval. Paul's silent testimony of Ben's skills spoke for itself. Ben sat, and a man with long black hair and piercing brown eyes stood and eyed each individual at the table in turn. He nodded at two of the individuals as he went around the table. "I'm a Telepath. Sometimes I can communicate with other telepaths." The two individuals he had nodded at spoke in unison. "Thomas." "Please, don't call me Tom Tom." With red skin and long black hair his Native American ancestry was obvious. Thomas nodded and smiled at Rose, then reseated himself. Ted's curiosity about the man seated next to him had been wrestling for his attention since he had first seen him. Ted thought he was the wildest looking member of the group. His black hair was very long and braided into dozens of small cords. His skin and hair were almost the same color, and his darkness made his face seem almost featureless. He was nearly as large as Marsh. 'He must be Jamaican.' Ted felt he would scare the wits out of you in a dark alley. Ted noticed Rose's eyes were glued to the man. The Jamaican stood slowly, looked down into his cupped hands, and exhaled more air than Ted thought possible. Then he spoke in quick, precise, syllables with a

melodic voice, which was somewhat surprising for someone of his size. "I am Ruke. I find things." The accent confirmed that he was Jamaican. Ted's curiosity pulled him up to the table, as he anxiously awaited Ruke's demonstration. Ruke closed his eyes. "There are . . . six large änimals, horses, near here." He opened his eyes, maintaining a blank expression. He turned to Rose, and gave a slight bow. Rose found herself examining him. She felt slightly embarrassed at her thoughts, and glanced at Ted to see if he noticed her appraisal of Ruke. Ted's eyes were still on the speaker. "There are six horses." Rose finally confirmed. Then Ruke flashed an inviting smile catching her off guard. She flushed, and definitely noticed a reaction from Ted this time, which caused her to flush more deeply. Ted stiffened as he noticed Rose's reaction to Ruke's gentlemanly bow. He was ashamed of the jealousy that momentarily flared at her reaction. He took a deep breath and realized everyone was waiting on him. He quickly washed everything from his mind and concentrated on what he was going to say to the group. He did not want to sound insignificant. He stood and decided just to say it straight and hope for the best. "My name's Ted. I'm this project's electronics technician. I'll not only be monitoring your talents with my equipment, but I'll attempt to find ways to stimulate, and possibly enhance your abilities." Ted noticed a ripple of reaction go through the group as he sat. "How much of an improvement? Ruke blurted. Before Ted could answer Tanya commented. "Before my commräds in Russia vorked vit me I väs no stronger dän Miss Rose."

"Could you do that for us?" Thomas asked Ted. "Well, actually if we say that Tanya is four times as strong as Rose, and my theories are correct, the improvement could be as much as twenty times stronger than Tanya. But we won't know for sure until I've done more testing." Ted answered while staring up and scratching his temple. Total silence followed Ted's statement. Ted looked back at the group to find an array of stunned faces. "Can you reälly do this?" Ruke muttered breaking everyone's revere. Then he repeated the question asking Ted directly. “You reälly think this is this possible?" Before Ted could answer, Rose interrupted with an explanation. "Ted's been experimenting with some new technology that seems very promising." Rose smiled beaming confidence at Ted. It was Ted's turn to flush. He turned to Ruke who was still waiting for an answer. Then Ted looked around the room and found the same questioning expression on every face. "Yes, I think it's very possible." He finally answered. Pride swelled up in his chest as he realized his words had caused the strongest reaction from the group yet. Ted looked at the young girl to his right, and remembered that she had answered Thomas's telepathic call. He doubted she was twenty years old. The Asian woman, two seats down, appeared to be at least forty. Everyone else looked to be in their late twenties or early thirties. The young girl stood shyly, keeping her head bowed. She was short and full figured, with long blond hair and bright blue eyes. "Please, call me Ängie." She spoke at slightly over a whisper. Her Scandinavian accent matched her Swiss Miss appearance. "Speak up, we can't hear you down here." Rose interrupted as politely as she could.

"Sorry. Please call me Ängie." She spoke only slightly louder, and still kept her head bowed. "I am a Telepath." Her expression shifted from shyness to concentration. "Hey! That was no whisper!" Thomas bolted to attention and stared at Angie. The other Telepath also showed surprise. Angie allowed herself a small smile as she sat. Ted thought that if everyone kept trying to out do the others the last member would have to whip up a tornado and fly them all off to Oz. The next person stood. Ted did a double take. He guessed she must be over six feet tall. "My name is Maria." Maria was cute, slim, and either darkly tanned or naturally brown. She had gray-blue eyes and light brown hair, which was wavy and cut a couple of inches above her shoulders. It looked as if she had just come from a beauty salon. Maria's smile was broad and carefree. Her only fault seemed to be her height, if that was a fault? "Some people call me Too Tall." Her voice was deep and rich with a Latin accent. "I also find . . . things . . . but not now." She sat still smiling obviously intending not to give a demonstration of her skills. Ted decided that she must be from South America. A moment later the small Asian woman seated next to Maria stood. She was easily the oldest member of the group. "My name is Ann." Her long black hair glistened and sparkled as she moved, and there was a sparkle in her eyes too. It was the sparkle of someone who enjoyed life. She aimed a cryptic grin at Ted, and then turned and smiled at Rose, causing Rose to flush again. "I occasionally see visions of the future, or the truth, but I have no control over when or what." She turned to Ted. "Perhaps you can give me control." Her English was a little choppy, but correct. Her accent, or lack of accent, gave

no clue to where her home might have been. Ted nodded his intent to help, and she smiled again and sat. A wild-eyed gentleman with an infectious smile stood next. He was of medium build with black hair, brown eyes, and a bad haircut. "My name's George, I'm a finder too. I'm specially good with minerals." His accent sounded down-under. He looked around with an implying grin. "There's silver under this land, a little bit, not enough for a minin’ operation, but enough to prove me right." He paused for a moment. "There's only one way to prove that, so, Miss Rose I'd like permission to do some diggin’ in my spare time." Rose hesitated momentarily to recover from her surprise. She felt as though he had come out of nowhere with that request. "I'm sorry, but that won't be possible. It sounds like an interesting venture." Rose replied. "But I'd have to check with the owner of the property first, and outside contact won't be allowed until the end of the first year. By the way, it's just Rose." George bowed to her authority with a smile of acceptance, and a touch of regret. "I am called Terra." She was tall, slender, and athletic. She had dark gray skin and short kinky black hair. Her dark brown eyes flashed back and forth randomly locking on a person for a moment then moving on. She looked wild and untamed, with a strong natural beauty. Then she calmed herself, and suddenly she looked like a corporate executive. Ted could not believe someone's appearance could change so much just by changing expression and posture. He realized his jaw had dropped again, and quickly closed his mouth.

"I am Telepathic." She spoke very distinct English with no trace of an accent. "I am especially good at determining truth." She paused and glanced around the table. "I have noted only one deception this evening." She turned accusing eyes on George. "Me?" George blurted, but her penetrating stare broke him. "Okay, okay, there's more than just a little silver, but still not enough for a minin’ operation." "Thank you." Terra smiled at his acknowledgment of her ability, then sat and turned to Rose. Rose waited a moment. "A very Interesting group. I think I've chosen well. I hope you will enjoy it here, despite the isolation the facilities are splendid." Rose's grin showed her satisfaction. "I believe we can shock the world with our work. I feel a great potential in this room. I would like to thank you all for coming here. I feel our contributions to science and society will be significant." The meeting ended with a rousing round of applause. Everyone seemed enthusiastic with confidence in the breakthroughs they hoped to achieve. Rose found it very interesting to watch the drastically different personalities bending and merging, forming the team she had dreamed of. In some other situation these people might have been at each other's throats. They were all so different, but here they were all of the same fabric, and they reveled in their similarities rather than bickering over their differences. 'We are off to a great start.' She thought to herself. Ted smiled to himself and as Ruke and Terra prodded him for clues about his ideas for improving their talents. His Smile broadened as a warm feeling of rightness about this place and these people overwhelmed him. “How cän you do it män? What häve you discovered?” Ruke probed.

“Have you heard of string theory?” Ted replied. Ruke straightened with a quizzical expression, but Terra leaned toward Ted. “You mean the theory that all mater in the universe is made up of tiny strings?” Terra offered. “Yes. Part of the theory tries to explain unseen forces and rays, like light and gravity. I read that these forces were thought to be vibrations of those super tiny strings. I wondered if I could find a way to apply modified ultrasonic equipment to excite these strings and prove their existence. That was the subject of my thesis.” Ted leaned back to see if they were still following his explanation. They both appeared intent with understanding. “When I got picked up by the company, they allowed me to continue experimenting when I had the time. Some of the results have been rather interesting, and it’s quite possible that my applications could have influence over some psychic abilities.” Ted leaned back again and was pleased to see both of them deep in concentration over the possibilities. “Do your applications produce anything we can see or feel?” Ruke intoned. “Will it hurt?” He added apprehensively. Ted flushed slightly. “I’ve never tried it on a person. I don’t know.” Ted was taken back by the stiff, shocked expression Terra and Ruke shared. “We’ve got a lot of testing and measuring to do before we try anything. I’m sure you’ll be very comfortable with the process before we try it on one of you.” Ted quickly added.

The sleeping arrangements were agreed upon quickly. The house had nine bedrooms each with its own bath and walk-in closet. There were four bedrooms along the front of the house, and four bedrooms along the back facing the pool. The huge master

suite took up the whole of one end of the house. It was decided that the master suite would be reserved for special situations, and rewards. Ted and Rose would have their own rooms. That left six rooms for ten people, five males, and five females. It was decided that two of these individuals would have their own rooms for one month. At the end of each month they would shift rooms so that everyone would get time with their own room. Ruke and Ann drew the singles for the first month. It was also decided that the singles would be the poolside rooms. Ted had thought he was getting more than his share, for the role he was playing, and said so. In his experience Technicians usually got the worst accommodations. Everyone agreed with the original arrangement though, so it stood as planned. Ann pulled Rose aside. "It is him!" She cornered Rose, nodding at Ted as he disappeared into his room. "You!" Rose tried to sound stern, but came off more like an angry adolescent. "You caused it to happen. It's the power of suggestion or something. I've got half a mind to ignore him just to prove you wrong!" Rose realized she was out of line. Ann was silent a moment studying Rose's pretended composure. "Perhaps. I did not mean to create a situation. I was only relating a premonition." Ann answered timidly. "I know. I'm sorry." Rose relaxed. "I just hate not being in control." Rose turned and faced Ann squarely. "I see your predictions unfolding, and I get this terrible feeling I'm just along for the ride, and there's nothing I can do to direct my own life." She slumped in depression, having purged herself. "That is not the way of things. My seeings are truths, but a seeing is only one of many possible truths. Your destiny is your own to control. Many times I have told of my

seeings so they could be avoided." Ann smiled and pressed Rose's hand in hers. "I told you of my seeing so that you might have more control of your life, not less." Ann looked hard into Rose's eyes, then smiled and added. "It was a good seeing." Rose smiled in reply, regretting her rash words, but knowing they had already been forgiven.

The next morning the team met for breakfast in the dining room. Rose and Ted had prepared scrambled eggs, sausage, toast, sliced fruit, orange juice, and coffee. There were several kinds of cereal set out. Everyone seemed quite satisfied with the choices, and as they ate they discussed the day's goals. A tour of the compound was the first order of business. A map was passed around which showed not only the locations of the buildings, but the roads, trails, and fences, in short everything within the compound. They went to the pool and tennis court first. It was quickly agreed that they were indeed fortunate to have such a wonderful facility for their project. The barn was next. Rose introduced them all to the six beautiful horses, which they were told were available to them in their free time. The barn also housed several large objects covered with tarps, and parked in empty stalls. One, it was discovered, was an old stagecoach, which had been restored. The others seemed only to be uninteresting old farm machines of indeterminable use. From the barn they walked passed the research building to the garage. The garage housed the two project vans, two rugged looking four-wheel drive vehicles, and a small old fire engine.

Rose walked over and patted the old fire truck on the headlight. Then she turned and made an announcement. "We are all going to have to know how to use this." She patted the truck again. "Starting this afternoon we will be having daily practices, until we achieve an acceptable level of competence." "We shall be driving a real fire engine. Oh my!" Ben's wide-eyed exhilaration caused everyone to chuckle. "I'm sure we will have fun, but remember, we're a long way from anything. We're going to have to depend on each other, so let's all take this seriously." Rose spoke with a gentle tone, hoping not to diminish the high spirits that seemed to abound. The work center was next, after looking through the offices Ted gave a brief demonstration of the control center electronics. "The pit!" George bantered, after looking into the dark room behind the airtight submarine door, and the name stuck. It was referred to as 'the Pit' from then on. Inside the room was an insulating plug designed to fit into the hole in the wall where the door was located. The special insulation in the room was over a foot thick. They all agreed that the only place that someone might be more isolated would be the bottom of the ocean.

It took about two weeks to settle into a regular routine. Work teams quickly developed. Thomas, Angie, and Terra, the three telepaths spent each morning together planning their projects for the day. They often included others in their experiments, but more often worked only with each other. Ruke, Maria, and George maintained a similar scenario. Often playing their own, controlled and scrutinized, version of hide and seek. Tanya, Paul, Ben, and Rose had more varied routines, constantly changing work partners.

Ann was everywhere, helping everyone. Her ability to show up wherever she was needed and always just in time astounded everyone. Ted ran his equipment constantly, monitoring everything from density variations, to electron balances, even something Ted called sub-dimensional harmonics. His monitoring equipment was placed at several locations inside the building, and a few outside. He estimated the data needed before he attempted to stimulate or enhance anyone's abilities would take at least four months to compile. Ted offered computer training for anyone who wanted help. He also helped instruct the fire control training. Rose and Ben partnered for first-aid training. Both classes were now held every other afternoon on alternate days. Ted would bring out the fire engine on one afternoon, and Rose and Ben would instruct first aid and safety on the next. Hardly a thought was given to the outside world by any of them. Rose and Ted agreed that the progress was way beyond satisfactory. Rose's concern about how the team would get along had vanished. Everyone was so engrossed in the project that rivalries and grievances were being put aside or ignored, to further the project. Even the competition between individual projects had not caused any friction. Ted attributed this to the amazing speed of their progress and accomplishments. Success seemed to breed cooperation. Improvements in skills and abilities were constant. They were all accomplishing psychic feats they had never attained before. Even Ted's research was turning up some premature results. There was excitement in the air, and spirits soared. Somewhere along the way Ted had forgotten his apprehension about this project. In fact he felt he was where he belonged. It was the first time in his life he had felt this strongly about his environment. Even as a child he had felt out of place. He had been

adopted at the age of four months. Consequently he never thought of his family as adopted, but he had never developed the family rapport of which he had often dreamed. The depth of his feelings for people he had only recently met now puzzled him. Puzzled, but appeased he reveled in the warmth and camaraderie shared by the group. He would never have guessed that so much comfort could be found in something that started with so much apprehension. Table of Contents

Adversity Chapter 4

With lines of concern etched into her face Rose looked from her breakfast cereal to the letter. They were over three months into the project, and the members had settled into a familiar pattern. Finding Rose and Ted the first ones up was part of that pattern. George and Ruke walked into the dining room, and though they both noticed the letter neither one commented. What made this morning unusual was that mail was something they never got. It was not allowed by the isolation rules. George and Ruke were discussing an experiment they had worked on the day before. "I tell ya there was an interference. I felt it." George insisted. His down under accent was heavier than usual this morning. "Thän why didn't Märiä or I not feel it, män?" Ruke also slipped more deeply into his accent when he was engrossed or excited. "Mornin’ Rose. I tell ya I felt it!" George threw a quick glance at Rose then continued the discussion, not allowing Rose the option of a response. "Good Morning Rose." Ruke offered very properly, and smiled with a little nod, or was it a bow? "Maybe Ted's equipment recorded somethin’!" George stopped in his tracks as he realized there might be a way to disprove Ruke's contradictions. "Have ya seen Ted?" He quickly turned back questioning Rose. Rose had just shoved a large spoon full of granola into her mouth. She leered at George, and chewed in silence. He waited impatiently watching her chew. Ruke filled a

bowl for himself and tried to cover his amusement. Rose tried unsuccessfully to swallow daintily. "He's out in the building doing something special. We're supposed to wait here till he gets done. He said it wouldn't be long." Rose bent back to her bowl trying to make it obvious that she was going to eat first and talk later. "Au-huh." George grunted, and grabbed the milk. "Rose, do you know vhere Ted és?" Tanya asked as she entered the room "I need to déscuss hés schedule." Rose had just shoved another large spoon full of cereal into her mouth. She closed her eyes in frustration and chewed. "He'll be back shortly." She finally replied. Tanya accepted the answer and moved toward the breakfast table. Rose looked around to make sure no one else was going to interrupt her, but she missed the subdued grins around the table. She stopped just as she was about to put her spoon in her mouth again, and scanned the room first, but just as she finally put the spoon in her mouth she heard the words again. "Rose, do you know where I can find Ted?" This time it was Terra. Rose slumped and closed her eyes. Chewing and swallowing quickly she stood, grabbed her bowl, and answered gruffly as she retreated to the privacy of the kitchen nook. "He'll be back in a minute." Terra quickly recovered from Roses’ gruffness and attended to her own breakfast. George and Ruke silently chewed as Rose’s mood became the new focus of attention. A few moments later Paul's voice echoed from the kitchen, his accent slurring his words. "Morning Rose. Huv you zeen Ted?"

"ARRRRG!" Rose stomped into the dinning room with fire in her eyes, and milk dribbling down her chin. She ranted as she stood in the doorway, not making much sense, but being very intense about it. "Why can't I eat in peace? Why me! Why me! Can't you pick on someone else for a while? Gimme a break!" Then her eyes suddenly bulged as she was attacked from behind by a kick to her fanny. She whirled in shock to find Ted standing behind her. The fire in her eyes blazed dangerously at Ted. Everyone else held their breaths, not even daring to swallow. "Just keeping my promise. You were losing your temper." He stood blocking the way to the kitchen solid as a rock, ready to deal with any rebuke. He was not prepared for her reaction though. She melted to the floor. He barely caught her in time. He pulled her over to the bench in the nook, and settled in beside her. She softened and pressed into his chest. A moment later she recovered and meekly pushed the letter at him. "What am I going to do?" she whimpered. He pulled the crumpled letter from her hand and comforted her with an arm around her shoulders as he read. A concerned look grew on his face. "Okay, We're going to take the morning off. No work till after noon. No one goes near the building." He announced. Then he helped Rose to her room, leaving the others in a bewildered state.

"Ya know it might be nothing, sometimes the chiefs like to scare the Indians. Just to keep us in line." His passive and gentle voice almost convinced her. When she looked into his eyes her expression was somewhat less pitiful. "I hope you're right. I haven't even thought about what else I could do." She looked down into her lap for a moment then stiffened abruptly. "Something's wrong, isn't it?" Her expression

no longer showed any sign of self-pity or fear. Ted watched her face as it went from dread, to perception, to relief, and finally settled on suspicion. "Read the letter to me, slowly, please?" Ted couldn't stop himself from smiling. Watching Rose's visage shift so rapidly and so drastically would have been merely humorous normally. Now he found it very endearing, but also concerning. He reached down and picked up the letter from the floor. Before reading it again, he took a probing look at Rose's face. Her current look of concentration quickly altered again under his scrutiny. Ted found himself in an emotional knot, and decided to express himself. He put his hands on either side of her face, pulled her to him, and kissed her firmly on the lips. Her eyes widened dramatically with surprise, then fell shut as she melted to the moment. Rose found herself in a void. Ted's surprise had momentarily eased a tension she had been carrying since she had met him in Reno. They had been so busy, so wrapped up in their work that they had made no time to explore each other. To her agitation he abruptly turned his attention back to the letter. She was left teetering on an emotional cliff, and found her new tension overwhelming. Ted started to read, but she interrupted. "Why did you do that?" "What, kiss you? Or . . .." Ted asked, but she cut him off before he could finish. He willfully held his attention on the letter. "Yes!" Her eyes bored holes in the side of his head. He turned and stared back with equal force. "Or stop kissing you?" He continued accusingly.

Rose hesitated, and found herself seriously considering his statement. 'He's right, damn him,' but she couldn't admit it, not yet anyway. Her mind fumbled for a witty reply, but could come up with nothing suitable. After a pause that seemed all too substantial, she opted for a change of subject to relieve the pressure. "Read the letter!" She ordered as forcefully as she could manage. He studied her a moment longer, then went back to the letter, realizing that at the very least he had aborted her terror. "Rose Mackenzie, Project Director." He read on forcing himself not to glance up to observe her expression. "This letter is to notify you of certain policy changes within the company. These changes have been brought on by current events, of which, you are probably not aware due to your programmed seclusion. Rather than try to entail all of the specifics of these policies, and the events impelling them, in a letter, I find it necessary to implement my controller’s prerogative and break your isolation directive. Three company representatives, and several government officials will accompany me. We will arrive on the twenty-second, giving you only three days to prepare. The situation is serious please take any steps you deem appropriate to be prepared for this officious inspection. I apologize for this intrusion. I know this is more than inconvenient, but it is unavoidable. Good luck." Ted took a deep breath and noticed the intent look on Rose's face. At least she didn't look terrified anymore. "And it's signed Steven Marsh, Director of Personnel, and Projects Controller." He looked at Rose with a malicious grin on his face, which set her back. "I think this calls for a council of defense." Rose turned a questioning gaze on Ted. "Council of defense?"

"Sounds like Marsh is trying to warn us of some kind of government intervention." Ted answered. "We need to prepare." "What can we do, if the government wants in, how can we stop them." She argued, allowing her deflated enthusiasm to reemerge. Ted gave her a scolding sneer. "We're not exactly a group of mental invalids, ya know." He smiled encouragingly, "We'll come up with something."

Ted walked out to the pool, and scrutinized his associates. Most of them were taking full advantage of their unexpected interlude. They had been so involved in their work they had virtually forgotten the facilities at their disposal. Most of them were making up for that oversight now. He took count and ensured that all were present. They had noticed Ted coming from the house, and shortly everyone had gathered around. Even Paul and Terra, who had been playing a rather provocative game of Tennis, hurried over. To the amusement of those lying around the pool Paul had tried to seduce her verbally over the net, and she had obviously enjoyed stringing him along. Ted looked them over, with a serious demeanor. "We're going to have a council in half an hour." He paused a moment and glanced at the pool, remembering more pleasant moments. His grave expression robbed them of any frivolity. "Some very serious decisions need to be made as soon as possible. There may be more at stake than just this project. I'll see you all in the dinning room in half an hour." He turned and walked around the house and over to the control center. After spending some time on the computer he walked back to the house, his mind swollen with probabilities and possibilities.

Rose stood and the room fell silent. She had been quietly sitting at the head of the table immersed in a thick file contained in a manila folder. She closed the folder and dropped it on the table as she stood. "I've received a letter from my superior at the head office. The letter stated that we were going to be visited in three days, on the twenty second." There was an immediate reaction, and Rose had to still them by raising her hands before she continued. "Not only will my supervisor and his staff be coming, but they will be accompanied by government representatives. The letter was very vague about the reason for this visit, but my supervisor hinted that we might be in some form of jeopardy. This visitation is a violation of the articles I signed for this project." She pointed down at the folder. "We were supposed to have remained isolated for a year, then I was to be given the opportunity to verify that the project warranted continued isolation." At that moment Ted walked in carrying a short stack of computer printouts. He gave Rose a nod of affirmation, and took his usual place at the other end of the table. Rose silenced everyone again, and sat turning the meeting over to Ted. He handed out the printouts, but his efforts went without his usual smile. His serious attitude made even Rose nervous. "Those are copies of the letter." Ted stated flatly. "Please read them now." Rose added. Only the rustle of paper kept the room from complete silence. "Thés és nothing. A very minor delay és all. Why dé fuss?" Tanya protested. "In my country dé government always interferes like thés."

"I think we need to read between the lines here." Thomas intervened. "There are individuals in our government that can be very difficult to deal with, especially when they see an opportunity to increase their power or influence." "Exactly!" Rose barked, rejoicing in the support. "Ted and I know Steven Marsh fairly well, and we agree that this letter is out of character for him. First, normally Marsh would have Ted and or I come to him, that's the procedure called for in the articles. If this really were a serious situation, involving more than just this project, he would have informed us of the predicament. Therefore we assume that someone in the government has a less than ethical interest in this project. Second, Marsh is not the kind of man to leave a loose end dangling. He wouldn't wait three days to solve a serious problem. Again we are assuming he is trying to give us some time to prepare ourselves. Third, His use of the phrase officious inspection is an obvious reference to a lecture he routinely gives to new employees. It refers to some of the negative aspects of the government/corporate relationship. We firmly believe that this letter is a warning. A warning of serious government intervention." She nodded at Ted, and he answered with an acknowledging nod. "I've been very grateful for this opportunity." George fumbled with his pencil as he spoke. His eyes wandered across the table probing each of his associates. "I've developed friendships and loyalty with ya, all a ya, in the few weeks we've been here." He paused and faced Rose sheepishly. "But facing off with the United States government, that's a bit out of my league." A murmur of agreement rose around the table. Rose smiled at Ted. "Your turn. Tell them just like you told me." She sat, and everyone pivoted, attentions focused on the other end of the table.

Ted stood and grinned. They were all familiar with that grin. It meant he was in control. His confidence was infectious, and they all anxiously awaited his insights. He spoke as strongly and as forcefully as he could. He had to convince them all. "The United States government is an organization created of the people, for the people, and by the people. When it fails to represent them fairly, and places it's own interests above the good of those people. It is no longer our government, but an enslaving bureaucracy. That means, if the government is out of line we have the right, no, the obligation to put it back in line. This government was created to escape just this type of tyranny. Many of you are not U. S. citizens, but as guests, you have rights also. We must as honest and moral individuals protect our rights." He cleared his throat before he continued. "Enough of the soap box. We are going to take every precaution we can think of to protect ourselves, and our work from these individuals who have ignored our rights. They are supposed to be working for us." Ted's grin softened into a tactful smile. He could see that he had evoked their spirits. "I just down loaded this file of current events from the company. Marsh will be told we did this, because it is a violation of our isolation agreement. No one else will be told, he will know we are taking steps." He put his palms flat on the table and leaned out toward their center. "We need to spend the rest of the day reviewing this data, and other information we will be receiving. I am attempting to get some inside information on the government officials involved." Ted's grin was back and as malicious as ever. "I have friends in low places, who may be able to help us." They responded to his speech with more energy and commitment than he had expected.

That afternoon Ted sat at the main computer reading his electronic mail. It had been several weeks since he had checked it. There were many messages. Most were from colleagues who wondered why they had not heard from him. He was breezing through them when he found two messages that interested him. The first was from a former associate who had been working on an interesting twist to a virtual reality program.

TO: TED PHILLIPS FROM: PACKLED SUBJECT: HELP!

I've run into a real snag with my project. Most of my problem stems from the unfortunate fact that I am now gainfully employed. As we both know there is no better way to stifle creativity, short of marriage that is. Anyway take a look at what I've got, PLEASE. My brother-in-law still has the BBS, and he'll have all the files including source codes. Use your old nickname to get passed the password protection. Don't want anyone stealing my ideas. Thanks, I know you'll find the bug. Later!

Memories of college craziness flooded his consciousness. He had accessed the BBS and downloaded the files. While he waited for the data to transfer he went through the rest of his mail, and stumbled over the other interesting message. It was from Bill. Its cryptic nature flushed the jovial mood created by the previous message.

TO: TED PHILLIPS FROM: BILL HARDEN SUBJECT: YOUR EXTENDED VACATION

Your BROTHER and his friend came by, never did like them. They wanted to know where your laundry was. Said they were going to take it to MOTHER. I said I didn't know anything. I HOPE YOU TOOK IT WITH YOU! Steve asked me to try to get a message to you. He said to tell you not to believe what you read in the papers, unless it's the journal. How you doin’ with that redhead. I sure wish we had never got involved with that stupid library gag. She getting’ on your nerves, or under your skin? She was pretty cute. If there's anything I can do for ya just ask. Later bro!

It took Ted a while to deduce Bill's real message, but it was obvious from the start that something strange was going on. Receiving such a cryptic message in the first place had a foreboding significance. First, Ted's stepbrother was in Asia on a goodwill project, and he would not be back for at least a year, if ever. Second, whenever they capitalized all the letters in names like mother, father, uncle, etcetera, it meant the establishment or whoever was supposed to be in charge. Ted construed that MOTHER and BROTHER referred to government people. Probably the same ones Marsh had warned him about. They had been snooping around trying to find his research notes. He was glad he had brought them all with him. 'What are these people up to?' The Steve that Bill mentioned had to be Steven Marsh, and this confirmed that Marsh's letter definitely was a warning.

The part about the paper he had not unraveled yet. ‘I guess I'll just have to get a copy of the Journal and see if I can figure it out.’ He thought to himself. As far as the question about Rose, he was still thinking about it, a lot.

The entire team had eagerly taken to their new objectives. Everyone was either reading the data that Ted was supplying or debating the relevance of some bit they had read. Always they searched for the motives of their antagonists. The project had always been a regular beehive of activity, but now it was like moving day. People and objects were flying around at double speed. Despite the level of animation they had uncovered little that enlightened them about their uncertain situation. "Excuse me. Can I have everyone's attention?" Ted's voice rose over the buzz of their research. They were spread through the dinning, living, and family rooms, the three large rooms that made up the southwest side of the house. The rooms opened to each other with large sliding doors, that made it feel like one long hall. No one had any trouble hearing Ted, and they were all soon gathered around. "I'm sorry to disturb all of you, but we've got a real time problem, and so far we haven't come up with any answers. I don't mean to criticize anyone. In fact I'm really proud to be part of a team that works so hard and so well together, even if I don't share your talents." Ann stepped up beside him, putting her hand on his shoulder comfortingly. "Everyone has talent." She paused briefly, and then continued before she could be interrupted. "Your talent lies in your relationship with your electronic devices." She smiled and gave his shoulder a light squeeze.

Ted proceeded after giving Ann a thankful smile. He turned an intent face on the group. "We've got to get organized . . . get a system . . . use . . . our talents!" He slowly pumped out the last words, and you could see the light of a plan quicken in his eyes. The expression on his face coupled with his momentary dormancy as the cogs of his mind churned through the fresh possibilities drew them all closer. Rose could handle the suspense no longer. "Well, out with it. You look like you just realized the secrets of the universe, or something." Rose demanded, and then became embarrassed with her outburst. Ted smiled placidly, then as he turned to face Rose that smile mutated into an insidious grin. "Our talents, we do, all have special talents. We should be applying them in the most productive way possible." He placed the palm of his hand on his chest with an expression that showed his mind was still tuning his plan. "I can setup a program for the computer that will search through all the data, and compile anything pertinent. That will free most of the rest of you to prepare a reception for our unwanted guests. I suggest you work in teams. This is a situation that craves our imaginations. Let's be creative." Ted scanned the small crowd hoping to find acknowledgment. He was rewarded by an enthusiastic and almost immediate response. "Ve must find a vay to covertly communicate vit Mister Marsh vhen he arrives." Tanya offered zealously. "What about some false progress files, to show them how poorly we have been doing." Terra quickly added. "I like the way you guys think." Ted answered. "Tanya and Paul I have a special experiment I want to try with the two of you. Thomas why don't you get some help and

follow up on Tanya's suggestion. Terra . . . oh, sorry Rose, I didn't mean to take over on you." Ted verbally stumbled when he remembered Rose should be in charge here, not him. "That's quite all right, you're doing a great job. What do you want me to do?" Rose replied quickly, not wishing to interrupt the momentum he had established. "I was hoping you and Ann could help me with data entry and program monitoring." He answered adroitly. Rose could not hide her disappointment at not getting a more exciting duty. He had started to address the group, but stopped himself abruptly, when he saw her benign reaction. "I'll see what I can do to make the job a little more interesting." He said just loudly enough to be overheard. Ann's smile deepened slightly, but Rose turned beet red and had to turn away. Ted carried on, assigning tasks, and finished by telling them that when the computer spit out some actionable information they would be informed. Rose was gone when he finished. Ann stopped him as he walked off to look for her. "You should not tease her so. She does not handle it well." "I know, but she makes herself such an easy target." He offered in explanation. "I know. We must work on that." Ann replied, causing him a momentary pause. He looked into her eyes and stated. "No, let's not. I like her just the way she is." He walked off before she could offer any more sagely advice. Ann smiled with a deeper sparkle, and hesitated only a moment before following close behind him.

They found Rose already in the control center. "Is there something we can do while you set up the computer?" Rose asked subdued and cooperative, not at all hostile, as Ted had feared. "I'll make coffee." Ann said as she slipped down the hall leaving them alone. Ted was not sure how to handle the situation, despite her congeniality he knew Rose was still upset, just how upset he could only guess. He decided to play it safe and give her something significant to do, even if it was not a high priority. She smiled at his instructions and bent to her task silently. Tanya and Paul walked in a moment later and Ted rushed them off to an unoccupied office to pursue his a new experiment. He returned a few minutes later, opened a drawer, and started shuffling through data storage disks. He inserted one into the computer, and checked its contents, then tried another, the third disk held the files he wanted. After transferring the files he went to work modifying the program to perform the task he currently required. Within a couple of hours he was satisfied with the way it was running. He leaned back, stretched, and noticed Rose and Ann's upside-down faces observing him from behind his chair. "Hi." He said uneasily, turning to face them properly. "How long you been watchin’?" "A while, you've been totally engrossed." Rose answered in a comforting voice. "I'm surprised your ears weren't burning." She smiled to Ann, who answered with a conspirators smile. Ted blushed slightly. "Well it's running now." He announced with a hint of pride. "It'll probably be a while before we get any results from the computer though, lets head over to the house after I check on Tanya and Paul." Ted stood and turned.

"Whoa there." Rose advised. "I think it'd be pretty foolish to head over there empty handed." "I told everyone it would take a while to find something. They shouldn't expect anything yet." Although he had said it as a statement you could hear the uncertainty in his voice. "Am I missing something?" He appended narrowing his eyes. Ann shook her head as though it was obvious, and Ted was just being dense. Rose smiled, enjoying having the upper hand again. "You had them worked up to a frenzy. Which is good." She added quickly. "If you show up in the middle of that frenzy looking whipped and barren, it might destroy their enthusiasm. They'd never get that conviction back in time to be effective." She beamed with confidence in her observation. "Oh," was the only statement he could manage. He realized her good sense. "Well, have you two come up with anything yet?" He asked, hoping they were steering him toward something. Rose and Ann glanced at each other and shared a smiled. "You were right." Rose verified to Ann, and then held out a folder to Ted. "Where would you be without me?" She asked enjoying her advantage. "Up the creek, a long time ago." Ted replied as he accepted the folder, then he leaned in and kissed Rose on the cheek. He fell into his chair and it creaked and rolled back a couple of feet. With a deep sigh he asked, "What's this?" "It's a list." Rose answered wondering how he had so easily managed to ignore her mental advantage. "Evidently Senator Peachmyer of Nevada is trying to put something together." She added still slightly disappointed in the way the conversation

was going. She had hoped to keep him embarrassed a while longer, and even up the score. Ted opened the folder and read the single sheet inside, then turned it over looking on its back and looking under it searching for more. "Where did this come from?" He questioned with trepidation. "It came from there." Ann pointed showing concern for what she saw in Ted's face. She was pointing to the receiving basket for one of the printers. "Was there anything else in there?" "Just these." Ann held out a dozen sheets. "None of them have anything to do with that." Rose added supporting Ann. "It came alone." Ted examined the sheet again, but it offered no new clues. "Well I guess we've got something to show the others now." He mumbled in irony. "I just wish there was more." He tilted his head at Rose, and asked. "Isn’t that where you found Marsh's letter?"

Table of Contents

Tactics Chapter 5

Ted read Senator Peachmyer's list to the group, and they found the implications obvious, and replied with silent contemplation. Their eyes showed they were incensed. They were being targeted. It was not clear why, but the Senator, or somebody on his staff, wanted something they had, or something he thought they had. "I don't know much about Peachmyer." Ted proclaimed to the team. "But there's been a lot of corruption in this state, and I wouldn't be surprised to find out he's part of it." Ted shook his head in disgust. "At least now we know what direction it’s comin’ from." Thomas interjected filled with an unsettling combination of enthusiasm and anger. "Yes, and the computer's probably already turned up more clues." Ted continued enthusiastically. "Things are starting to fall together." He winked at Paul and Tanya, and then continued. "Let's hope we've still got enough time. We'll bring over anything the computer turns up, and if it seems important we'll call another meeting. Okay let's get to it. Paul, Tanya." He nodded at the two kinetics. "We better finish that test." With their enthusiasm rekindled the group once again moved with inspired speed. Speculation on what Tanya, Paul, and Ted were working on was the second most popular subject of discussion.

"Settle down! No more cafine for you, you look like you're going to crawl out of your skin." Rose interrupted Ted's fidgeting, hoping to get his mind on a different track. "I can't stop thinkin’ bout that list. Ya know. We haven't even had a chance to see if we could accomplish something, and someone's trying to take it away from us. No wonder science advances so slowly. Those . . . those . . . Politicians!" Ted fumed. He was in such a frenzy he could hardly control himself. Rose could not contain her mirth any longer. A laugh escaped before she could constrain herself. Once out, she knew it was a big mistake, Ted was not in a tolerant mood. ‘Now I'm going to have to listen to the class cutup give me a lecture on being serious.’ Rose braced herself fearing what might be said in the heat of the moment. He looked her dead in the eye, and was about to start when he stopped cold. His eyebrows raised, and Rose saw the light of an idea spring into his mind. His face changed from a mask of fury and frustration into one of inspiration. "Ann, come quick, he's doing it again, and this time . . ." She turned as she called to Ann, but finding Ann beside her she cut off her statement. "How did you know? You were just over . . ." Ann avoided Rose's question, intently watching Ted. "A hoax! A prank! That's it!" He reached over and wrapped his arms around Rose and hugged her fiercely. He dropped back into his chair completely relaxed, but his fevered mind was grinding furiously on a new plan. "Another prank?" Rose sounded skeptical, remembering the prank played on her. "You gonna get caught this time too?" "Yeah! That's the whole point." He rushed off leaving Rose completely befuddled. She turned to ask Ann if she had any idea what he meant, and found herself

alone. Ann had run off to spread the news. She flopped down in Ted's chair to brood, but Ted suddenly reappeared. He bent, putting his face before hers. "You are my inspiration, Thanks." He kissed her firmly but briefly, and then disappeared down the hall again. She sat there, her emotions running rampant. Not knowing whether to feel happy or angry, frustrated or relieved. "How does he always do that to me?" She muttered to herself, but her anguish was already starting to subside.

Ted knocked on one of the office doors in the North hallway. A moment later Paul unlocked and cracked the door to see who was there. "Come én, come én! I'm gläd you're here." Paul blurted, pulled Ted in by the arm, and re-locked the door. Tanya was sitting at the desk, slumped and drenched in sweat. She looked deathly ill. "Are you okay?" Ted inquired. His voice filled with shock and concern. "I, am fine." She looked up and a broad grin formed on her face, changing her appearance from ill to merely exhausted. Ted grinned back, then looked at Paul. "How much?" He asked, uncontrollably anxious. Paul stood in front of the computer monitor, wearing his best poker face. He waited a moment watching Ted's patience expire, then he moved away. Ted moved closer to the screen. It displayed a group of charts and graphs. Ted took only a moment to interpret them, and then turned to Tanya. His face was blanketed with amazement. He stood elated, unable to comment. He just stared at her. "I could do more, I am sure." Tanya added weakly.

Ted drew himself together. "That's more than enough. Could you do it again tomorrow?" "I could do it today, after a rest." "Okay then, we'll run one more test." Ted glared at the ceiling, stroking his chin. "Tonight, after dinner. You guys get some rest first." Ted skipped out of the room, bursting with the excitement of success. All his anxieties were momentarily gone. He danced up to Rose. "Come on beautiful, dance with me." She only tilted her head and eyed him from the chair, still clinging to her emotional confusion. She seemed to be considering his proposal. He danced around taunting her, and she finally responded. "What's with you?" She asked testily. Ted froze and a hurt expression flashed over his euphoria. The hurt only lasted a second though. He took her hands and pulled her from the chair. "Come with me and I'll tell you a little secret." He hesitated, and then his grin expanded. "No, I'm going to tell you a big secret. A secret of timely success." He added the final words in a barely audible whisper with his nose touching her ear. His brush against her ear, his enthusiasm, even the electricity in the air all worked against her ill temper. She felt lighter, and moved with his urging, her frustration nearly forgotten.

Two limousines arrived in the compound just before noon. The doors opened, and out stepped several men all in business suits. The baking desert sun made them eager to get back inside, back into cool conditioned air. Air that you could breathe without scalding your throat, but that was not going to happen. The project team rushed out to

greet the officials, dressed appropriately, in loose comfortable clothing. Ted led the project members at a very fast walk. His behavior was extremely enthusiastic. He rushed forward grabbing Marsh by the hand and pumped it vigorously. "Boy am I glad you're here! I can't wait to show you what we've done! It's incredible!" The other men eyed Ted as though he were an imbecile, running around hyperactively in this heat. Marsh looked stunned, trying to figure out how to squelch Ted's inappropriate, and exceedingly energetic display. ‘Shut up Ted. You are going to blow it. These people aren't here to pat you on the back.’ He hoped a quick and tactful recovery might still save them. "Miss Mackenzie, do you think you can control your Technician? At least until we get inside." He addressed Rose, intentionally snubbing Ted in an attempt to calm him down, and stop him from admitting to accomplishments he would later regret. Ted looked appropriately hurt. "But he has made an important breakthrough. I'm sure you'll want to listen to him." Rose offered demurely. Completely ignoring Marsh's attempts to steer them away from the problems these men could cause. "I had hoped to get something cold to drink, and maybe some lunch before we get down to business." He turned and faced the others in his group, who were starting to sweat already. "Doesn't that sound good to you?" He was answered with several affirmative nods, as he watched some of them loosen ties and unbutton collars. If he could buy enough time, he might get a chance to warn Rose and Ted of the impending danger. He had been sure the clues he had sent them would be sufficient to arouse their suspicions. He knew they had been inquiring into current events, and had felt certain that they would be properly prepared.

"Surely something this important you'll want to see right away, it could change the whole world!" Ted persisted, tugging at Marsh's hand. Marsh could not hide his disappointment. He covered his eyes with his free hand and shook his head. His reaction went unnoticed though. Everyone was being led to the control center, but he held Ted back and trailed the others. "Do you know what you are doing?" Marsh whispered harshly. "Oh yeah, you're gonna love this." He carried through with his charade, and led Marsh along as a child might lead a parent to something new and exciting. "Somehow I doubt it." Marsh mumbled giving in. Ted stopped and stared Marsh in the eye. "It's not over till the fat lady sings." The look in Ted's eye caused Marsh to pause, but he wasn't sure what to make of it, or of that cliché. Then Ted was off, tugging him along again. When they reached the door, Rose was staring at them. She glanced at the locks then back at Ted, but all she received from Ted was a blank stare. "Well, where are the keys?" She asked testily. "I thought you had um." Ted accused. "Okay, wait here, I'll just be a second." He ran off toward the house, before anyone could speak. He went directly to the dinning room window and peeked around the edge of the curtain at the crowd impatiently waiting for him to return. A few minutes more would be enough. He wanted them hot and upset before he let them inside. The plan was to work up their emotions, and reduce their perceptions. If their minds were preoccupied, especially with anger, they would be easier to manipulate. He waited until Marsh stormed off toward the house ready to throttle someone. Ted rushed out and intercepted him before he got inside. "Got um." He

announced waving the keys. He rushed back to the control center, and managed to fumble with the keys for another minute, before getting the door open. By this time most of the newcomers had removed their coats and ties. Everyone filed inside. Ted heard several people grumble about the heat and the wait, and he knew the plan was working. One of the government people stepped up to Ted. He was a rather average looking middle-aged man, a little larger than Ted. "What, exactly, is this breakthrough you mentioned." The man stood self confident, still wearing his coat and tie, and amazingly unruffled by the heat. Ted looked him over carefully. ‘This guy knows how to keep his cool. He'll bear keeping an eye on.’ He extended his hand. "My name's Ted." He stood there with his hand out patiently waiting. The stranger looked him over carefully, and finally extended a reluctant hand. "Miles." He sneered with disdain and an inflection that hinted at affluence. ‘What an S.O.B.! This guy deserves to get the shaft.’ Ted swelled his chest, preparing to play a rousing game of dueling insults. "Sorry, I've forgotten myself." Marsh stepped between the two. He had noted Ted's stance, and realized what was about to happen. "Rose will you help me introduce everyone." He effectively separated the antagonists, and smiled to himself for at least aborting one catastrophe. While Rose and Marsh introduced everyone, Ann caught Ted's elbow and pulled him down so she could whisper in his ear. "I do not like that one, Miles." She spat his name expressing her revulsion. "He is trouble. I see bad things in him."

Ted put his mouth to her ear to answer. "Yeah, you don't have to be gifted to see that. I just lost what little guilt I might have felt about this ruse." He stepped back and grinned, then returned his attention to the on-going introductions. "Okay Ted you're on." Rose said after she and Marsh had finished with the introductions. With all eyes on him, Ted pulled out the control center's remote control and keyed in the code to start the presentation. He did this with the elegant movements of a circus ringmaster, or perhaps a magician. He noticed that Miles' men were positioning themselves in key locations. He made a mental note that these men were trained professionals, not just thugs. "First of all, I would like someone to verify that we are all here." He turned to Rose with another flourish. After a formal role call he continued. "Tanya, please take your position." Tanya snapped herself to attention, nodded compliance, and marched rigidly through the round airtight door, and into the Pit. She reclined into the chair, and focused on the dark ceiling. "Gentlemen if you will observe." Ted stepped over and twisted the knob of the door they had all entered through. Immediately an alarm went off, which he quickly silenced with the controller. "As you can see no one can get out without everyone knowing, and this is the only exit." He walked over to one of the outsiders, and handed him the controller. "Would you hold this for me? You now have the only shut off for the alarm." Ted announced loudly enough for everyone to hear. "Now please follow me." He led the visitors into the isolation room. "Notice that Tanya and the chair are the only things in the room. Please feel free to inspect anything as closely as you wish."

Miles gave a hand signal to one of his men, who in turn, gave signals to two more men. The three of them started meticulously inspecting the room. Miles himself inspected Tanya and the chair. Tanya was unruffled by Miles' disrespectful scrutiny of her person. After finding nothing Miles and his men returned to the control room, and the men resumed their postings. Ted watched as Miles stiffly marched by. The picture of a World War II Nazi SS officer filled his mind. He nodded at the perception, then pulled the insulating plug into the opening, and sealed the steel door. He took the remote back and keyed a new code into it. Instantly a soft green light flashed on the control panel. A moment later the soft mechanical voice of the computer fell from the ceiling. "Kinetic demonstration 1A in progress." He handed the remote back, and more lights flashed, as graphs and text scrolled across the monitors. A soft humming grew as more cooling fans kicked on in the equipment. Ted beamed a smile at everyone, apparently enjoying his demonstration. No one spoke. The only sound was the humming from the two control stations. The activity of the lights and monitors diminished, and the computer abruptly announced, "Demonstration 1A complete." Ted rushed over and turned the wheel on the steel door, unsealing it, and swung it open. Then he pushed the huge plug out of the opening. He reached over and grabbed a thermos from Ann and hurried in, quickly pouring some of the contents into the cap. He gently supported Tanya's head while she drank. She looked wilted, her brow beaded with sweat, and her breathing erratic and heavy. "You okay?" Ted asked genuinely concerned.

When she had finished drinking, she drew a deep breath, then smiled up at Ted. "I déd ét!" She gulped another deep breath. "All thé way, both!" Then she slumped back into the chair, exhausted. Ted turned to his audience with a wolfish grin. "As soon as Tanya catches her breath, you'll see one of the wonders we've accomplished here." He helped Tanya to rise and sit up. Rose took over. Standing in front of the airlock door, she addressed the assembly. "Tanya is our strongest kinetic talent. When we step outside, you will notice one of the vehicles you arrived in is no longer there. She has lifted and transported it outside the compound fence, using nothing but the power of her mind." Miles' opened his eyes wider, but only for a moment. His aids looked at each other dumbfounded, and one of them made the only comment. "No way." He uttered in disbelief. "Yes!" Rose replied, with assurance and conviction. "In a moment you'll see." "Are you serious?" Marsh questioned in disbelief, stepping up to Rose. His face went ashen as he realized the ramifications of this event. "You've already gotten that far with your experiments?" "This is only the first demonstration." Rose added proudly. Tanya slowly climbed out of the chair and stretched. "I feel better now. Dé soup helps." Ann smiled, accepted the empty lid of the thermos, and screwed it back on.

The doors were opened and everyone rushed out to see if the car was really gone. One car was indeed missing. Three of Miles' aids ran around the corner of the building to get a clear view of the gate, and there it was, parked on the road just outside the gate. Miles gave another hand signal and pointed to where the car had been parked. His aids rushed over and inspected the ground. When they returned, the leader reported. "The tracks come in and stop." Miles stared at his subordinate ruefully, but the man stood his ground. Miles' scowl turned to contemplation. He pointed toward the car and nodded, and the men took off at a trot. Marsh's blood boiled in anger and disbelief. These shysters were the wrong people to be exposing this to. "Shall we go back inside and continue?" Ted Queried. "Yes, let's get out of this heat!" Marsh demanded, but he waited until Ted came by, and grabbed him by the arm, pulling him aside. "What do you think you are doing? These men aren't the people you should be revealing this to, why didn't you tell me first? You could have gotten a note or something to me. I might have expected this from Mackenzie, she's . . . naive, but you should know better." Marsh ran out of breath and flushed. He realized how worked up he was, and forced himself to settle down. Ted smiled knowingly. "Wait till the fat lady sings." He repeated, wriggled out of Marsh’s grip, and slipped inside. Marsh turned red with rage. "What the hell's a fat lady got to do with any of this?" He said to no one. He was the only one still outside, and the door was closing quickly. He swiftly leaped and grabbed the handle before the door could close. He mopped his brow with his sleeve and took a deep cleansing breath, again forcing his control. "What a mess!" He muttered to himself.

"The rest of the demonstrations will be more difficult to prove, so we won't try to. Hopefully the first demonstration has convinced everyone." Ted surveyed the remaining visitors for a sign of acceptance, but he detected none. During the Telepathy demonstration Miles' aids returned, and he listened intently to hear their report. "Heck if I know how they did it, maybe they're for real?" The young team leader disclosed. "There weren't any tracks around it out there, and nobody brushed them away either." The man was a little winded, and somewhat over heated. When he got the confirming nod from Miles he walked over and deposited himself in one of the few unoccupied chairs in the room. Miles watched and listened. Occasionally he sent a man to check something. All the while his calculating mind was searching for their secrets. He knew they had some, everybody does, but what theirs was he couldn't guess, yet. He signaled to the team leader, and held an impromptu, and private conference. The young man stepped back smiling, and nodding. He called his assistants over and they had a quick huddle. They stepped back from the huddle nodding with understanding, and then resumed their former positions. One by one they stealthily departed the building, meeting up fifteen minutes later, on the south side of the control center. Each man reported that he had found nothing, but the last wore a special grin. "You gotta come see this." He waved for the rest of the team to follow him, as he trotted off. They arrived at the barn a few moments later, and he led them around to the side to a window. A sheet or blanket was draped over the inside but one corner was uncovered. "Take a look." The man offered as he indicated the narrow view.

"What is that?" The leader asked. "Looks like a heavy crane." He stepped back to let the others have a look, and scratched his head in contemplation. "I don't know, but it sure seems out of place here." The first man added, with an insinuating grin. "We better get back, they've probably missed us by now." They all moved at a trot back to the control center. The leader noticed several nervous glances from project members when they returned. He quickly walked over to Miles and whispered his discovery. Miles leaned back appraising him studiously, and then nodded a silent acknowledgment. With a slight nod of his own the man returned to his former station. Rose addressed the assembly when the demonstrations ended. "That concludes our demonstrations. Ann, if you'll take the group that's on cooking duty tonight and go finish dinner please. Now, Mister Miles, what questions can we answer." "What do you expect the results of your research to be?" Miles asked, but the congenial tones he spoke in were diminished by an oppressive sneer. "A very good question." Rose answered promptly, undaunted by his expression. "We're sure that the proper funding of this project will produce discoveries that will astonish the scientific community, and forever change the world as we know it." "Yes, yes, I’ve heard such tales before." Miles interrupted. "With enough money you can perform miracles." He paused only a moment not allowing anyone to interrupt him. "I am not here to doll out money. I am here to investigate this project for involvement in an attempt to defraud the state and federal governments. I am here representing Senator Peachmyer's committee against corporate fraud."

Rose's hands flew to her mouth in shock, but she quickly recovered her composure. "We are not involved in any such corruption!" She watched Miles closely for any reaction to her carefully chosen wording. He did raise an eyebrow to her retort before continuing. "Might I ask what the equipment in your barn is for?" Rose turned to Ted with troubled eyes, and he leaped to her rescue. "You mean that old farm equipment? It was there when we got here." "Then you don't mind if we inspect the barn?" Rose stumbled back upon hearing this request, but Ted was there again. "Of course not, but we do have a lot to cover, I don't know if we will have enough time for that." He snapped. "In that case, I must insist." Miles squarely faced Ted and flashed an evil smirk. The tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife. Marsh dropped into a nearby chair covering his face and shaking his head. Rose stumbled back, again, bumping into the wall. Miles' aids jumped forward, ready to restrain Ted as he stepped toward Miles pulling himself erect and pushing out his chest. "You got a search warrant?" This time Miles stepped back and paused to reflect. "No, of course not. I did not think one would be necessary, and of course, by the time I could acquire one, I'm sure the barn would contain nothing incriminating. A nice play Mister . . . Technician." Miles paused before spitting out Ted's position rather than his name. Then he stroked his chin contemplating the situation. "I think I've seen and heard enough. It seems I've played my trump to soon, and lost the hand." He made a gesture to his men and they filed out of the

room. "The game, however, continues. You will, of course, find it almost impossible to obtain any government funding after my report is filed." He turned abruptly and walked to the exit. "Couldn't we come to some sort of agreement?" Ted insisted rubbing his thumb and forefinger together indicating a bribe. Miles turned and stared at Ted a moment, then surveyed the rest of the room, before grunting and marching out the door. Ted chased him out of the building and pleaded with him to listen to reason. Miles slammed the car door, cutting Ted off in the middle of his groveling. The car sped away creating a great cloud of dust. Ted and most of the rest of the project just stood there and watched until the car was out of sight. He turned to face his associates. Huge grins broke out on the entire group. Ted raised his hands to maintain the silence. "Not yet." He whispered just loudly enough to be heard by them, but not by Marsh's aids. "That's one down." The group broke up and headed to their normal evening chores. Ted went to continue the charade for Marsh and his aids. "I suppose you'd like an explanation of some sort." Ted bantered lamely when he returned to face Marsh in the control center. "I think you've said enough!" Marsh replied with disgust, glaring up from his chair. Rose stepped in and pulled Marsh to his feet. "We've got a really nice dinner planned, let's enjoy it and discuss what's happened after." She guided him to the door. Though he dwarfed her, oddly enough, she looked strong while he looked frail. The day had been too much for him. His worst imaginings had been exceeded, and it seemed a

disaster of epic proportions. He had such high hopes for this group. They seemed so capable. Now the whole project was lost. Ted followed the group silently. "How did it go?" Ann asked quietly, pulling Ted aside when he entered the house. He started to answer then stopped, and studied her face a moment. "How come you don't know? I thought you knew everything." Ted asked with feigned bewilderment. "You're the pre-cognizant." "I have been too busy, I must be relaxed to see. I have not been involved in such a deception since I was very young." Ann added conspiratorially. "Tell me!" She demanded impatiently. Ted checked to make sure there were no outsiders eavesdropping. "Everything's going as planed, so far." He surveyed the room again, and gave her a thumbs-up. He could see the glow of the adventure in her eyes, and he saw the same glow in every pair of eyes he encountered on his way to freshen up. Ted stumbled into Marsh on the way to his room. It was the first time since Marsh had arrived that Ted had a chance to talk to him alone. Ted surveyed the hall and saw no one else. "Come with me." He whispered, but Marsh acted as if the last thing he wanted at the moment was an encounter with Ted. Ted took the big man's arm and firmly escorted him into the room, holding a finger to his lips requesting silence. Marsh submitted. His curiosity kicked in, and he wondered if there wasn’t more to this situation than the obvious. He listened hoping Ted could explain away what looked like nothing more than a childish attempt to exploit the

Companies position. It appeared to be a foolish plot that had failed. He had expected more from Ted. He had always found Ted so inventive. "The men, who came with you, can they all be trusted?" Ted whispered with an air of intrigue. Marsh tilted his head and scrutinized Ted. "What are you up to?" He whispered back. "Can they all be trusted?" Ted insisted. After a calculating pause Marsh answered. "Nelson's the only one I'm sure of, the rest are too new." His interest piqued. ‘Ted's too sharp for those kinds of errors.’ He leaned forward with interest as Ted began to speak. "When you get back, Bill will contact you. Listen to what he has to say." Ted looked around as if he were afraid there might be someone hiding in the room listening to their conversation. "The project is on schedule, everything is going according to the original plan. You better get back. If you're gone too long the others will get suspicious. Sorry about the cloak and dagger, but you will understand." "When the fat lady sings?" Marsh rebuked, unsatisfied with Ted's capitulated explanation. "Patience is a virtue." Ted offered. "So is prudence." Marsh retaliated. "Now is not the time." Ted insisted as he checked the hall to make sure no one would see Marsh leave the room. "Okay go." Marsh hesitated in the doorway. "If I were a little less confused, I'd demand some answers, but right now I'm not sure I want to hear your answers." He turned to leave then

added. "I hope you're having fun, sooner or later you'll have to settle up, and it looks to me that you're using up more credit than you've got." "I've been thinking about that." Ted showed serious deliberation, and then looked Marsh straight in the eye with conviction. "It'll be worth it." He assured as he closed the door leaving Marsh shaking his head in confusion. He turned and walked down the hall to the dinning room. His mind was preoccupied with confused speculation.

Miles sat quietly in the limousine, absorbed in thought. His men respectfully followed suit. "Stop at the next place with food." His order was softly stated. "Yes, sir." The driver snapped. Shortly, the car pulled up to a roadside restaurant, and Miles went in followed by one of the men. After ordering tea and a sandwich he pulled out his cell phone. The phone conversation was short and impassive. After disconnecting Miles sat in the booth absorbed in concentration. "Something is wrong." Miles muttered after a minute. "Wrong, Sir?" His aid asked. Miles looked up from his concentration slightly surprised. He had forgotten the man was there. He answered more to himself than to the subordinate. "Something is wrong, they were . . ." No word came to him. He could not grasp what was making him so dubious. "Wrong, Sir?" The young man repeated, not able to think of a different reply. Miles looked at him with disgust, but answered him anyway. "I feel as though . . . they wanted to be caught!" His eyes widened, and enthusiasm burst into his voice. "They were not genuinely disappointed!" Then Miles forgot the aid and slumped back into

intense concentration, but he continued to speak as though thinking out loud. "They should have been extremely disappointed. The funding wasn't important to them!" Miles straightened slightly. "Why was the funding unimportant?" "Maybe they've already got funding?" The aid blurted. He was proud of himself for finally being able to contribute something. Miles looked scornfully at the young man for breaking his concentration, then relented. "Perhaps." Miles slumped back into his concentration again, and muttered to himself. "Perhaps." Table of Contents

Sustenance Chapter 6

Dinner was a quiet, subdued meal. Marsh was the first to broach the conversation barrier. "You do realize that you are both going to lose your positions with the company over this?" He addressed Ted and Rose who sat beside each other across the table. They were quietly enjoying dinner. Simultaneously they stopped eating looked up and smiled politely then went back to eating. They were so in unison that it looked as if they might have practiced for hours. Marsh's jaw dropped. He could not believe they were not concerned. He looked at his aids, but they looked as bewildered as he felt. He slowly closed his mouth and stared with intimidation. "Don't think your influence with management will save you young lady." They did not respond. A moment later he shook his head in frustration and stated. "Okay, okay, I'll wait!" Rose and Ted repeated their simultaneously flashed smiles, again in near perfect unison. Marsh shrugged and muttered to himself. "When the fat lady sings.” He shook his head, and returned to his meal. “Why me?"

The young man marched the equipment yard aimlessly. The yard was not large and did not contain that much equipment. It was a small town, and stocking only one of most pieces of equipment was usually sufficient. He had only been working there a week. He knew he could never find another job like this, and was apprehensive to the point of

being ill over losing it. His nervousness was conspicuous, and had been questioned by both of the customers who had come in that morning. He had checked the receipts twice, but no one had signed out the crane. It was the largest piece of equipment the company owned, and it was gone. The keys were still in the office but the crane was gone. Since he had opened the yard at eight o’clock, he had searched it seven times hoping to find a clue to the whereabouts of the missing crane. He grew increasingly pale, as the time his employer would arrive, drew near. He could not conceive of a way to explain to Mister Bordensen that he could not find the largest piece of equipment in the yard. He went into the office and took two more aspirin tablets in a futile effort to make his pain go away. The boy picked up the phone, but there was no one he could call for help. Then he saw Mister Bordensen's shiny new Cadillac pull up, and he nearly fainted. "G, Ga, G, Ga, G, Goo, Good, Good mmm, mmor, morning, Mis, Mister, Bor, Bor, Bord . . ." "Shut up Allen. I'm in no mood for any bull this morning!" The heavyset man grunted at his young employee. Allen's eyes rolled up and he dropped to the floor with a sigh, calm, relaxed, oblivious, and out cold.

As the group plodded over to the control center, Ted started giving directions. "Tanya, Paul, Ruke, and Terra, come with me. Rose, You and Thomas take care of the barn." He smiled at Rose making sure she was not upset with him for taking charge again. Everyone had stopped when Ted started to speak. Now they separated into their groups. Rose smiled her acceptance and approval of his authority, as Thomas stepped up

beside her. "The rest of you can proceed with the projects you were working on before." Ted finished. Rose spoke up before the group could break up. This was her first chance to talk to the whole group without outsiders. "I would like to thank and congratulate all of you. It looks like we pulled it off." Everyone smiled, a few backs were patted, and Rose leaned over and gave Ted a little peck on the cheek. "Thanks to you." Ted blushed at the fondling, and then Ann took them both by the hand. "It may look as though we have accomplished our task, but we have only taken the first steps on a difficult journey. I sense many daunting tasks yet to be confronted." Ann's sober comments keyed everyone up to put in a hard day, and be another step closer to their goal. They all broke off to their assigned tasks. Angie, Maria, George, and Ann filed off into the control center to work on their projects. Rose was startled to see Ann wince and cringe, "Did you see something, something terrible?" She asked sympathetically supporting Ann by holding her elbow. Ann stared at Rose with a fearful expression. "You should avoid mud." She shook her head trying to dismiss the regrettable vision, and pulled away from Rose and hurried away. She looked back, and shook her head again. Rose was at a loss as she watched Ann depart. "Mud?"

Rose and Thomas walked over to the barn. Thomas opened the huge doors, while Rose went inside and checked on the horses. Then she talked to them and stroked their noses.

"This might help." Thomas said and he threw a flake of hay into each stall. He suddenly stopped, became rigid, and his eyes went blank. He was only that way for a second but it still shocked Rose. When he relaxed so did she. "It's going to take a while for me to get used to that amplifier." He uttered as he shuddered trying to shake it off. "Me too, you looked like someone just stuck a knife in your back." Rose replied sounding just a little miffed. "What'd they say?" "Wanted to know if we were ready." Thomas walked over and whispered to a horse and scratched behind its ears. "Said he'd warn us before they transported." Rose moved to another horse and caressed his muzzle. "Think the horses will get spooked?" "Not with us here. They might get a little nervous, but as long as we stay calm they'll be okay." He moved to another horse and repeated his soothing technique. Rose also moved to another horse. All the horses seemed contented as they ate and enjoyed the fondling from their human company. Rose walked over to Thomas still showing a little concern over the fright she had just experienced. "Is it really different with the amplifier?" Thomas chuckled. "Yeah, it's real different. Before the amplifier I had to concentrate really hard, and the voices I would hear would sound like distant whispers in the forest. Now, now it's like . . ." He paused a moment in consideration, then smirked. "Like I'm wearing headphones, and someone cranked the volume up to warp nine." "That's good, we just have to work on getting the power levels right." Rose beamed with pride in Ted's accomplishment. "I guess so, but . . .." Thomas stammered.

"But what?" Rose asked sobering to his obvious concern. He looked down as if a little embarrassed. "It, sorta, takes the challenge out of it." He warmed to her curiosity, and shared his feelings. Lifting his head, he looked her in the eye. "Before it made me feel special. If I tried real hard, I could do something hardly anyone else could." He slouched and looked at the ground again. "Now, sometimes, I feel like I'm just somebody’s tool!" Then he quickly added. "I've got nothing against Ted, he's great. It just makes me feel weird." Rose smiled. "Is that all? You're still special." Thomas looked up and returned her smile, acknowledging her camaraderie. "We just have to solve that volume problem, so you don't feel abused. That'll be your next project, helping Ted figure out how to make the power levels correspond to the need." Rose threw her arms around the lanky Indian and hugged him. "Hang in there cowboy." He hugged her back, and then held her gently at arms’ length. "I'm the Indian, we ran the damn cowboys off yesterday." His grin was infectious, and made her feel warm inside for being part of such a special group of people. Just then he winced with the power of the amplifier booming in his head. Rose winced in sympathy, and then asked simply, "What?" "Here goes, get ready." Thomas warned and they turned to watch the crane. The enormous vehicle suddenly and silently lifted slightly off the dirt floor and floated out the huge doorway. The horses all jerked and became rigid as the crane moved. They watched it float away then went back to nibbling their hay. "Did you hear that?" Thomas walked over to face Rose when the crane was gone. He wore an expression of confused anxiety.

"There was something." Rose replied, somewhat concerned. "The crane being moved?" "No, not the transport, it was the horses, I could hear them." Rose gathered her wits, and looked more intently at Thomas, but his attention was focused on the horses, not on her. "The horses? You heard the horses? They didn't make any noise." "They talked to me!" His eyes were wide with shock. "You heard the horses talk to you? Are you serious?" Rose thought at first Thomas was pulling some sort of joke, but his expression told her otherwise. Thomas turned to Rose and answered with total conviction. "Serious as a heart attack!" Then he left at a trot for the control center.

"You heard the horses?" Ted questioned dubiously. "When you were transporting the crane, they all looked up and wondered what was happening. I reassured them, and they went back to eating." Thomas said the last sentence slowly, only then realizing it's full significance. "Zó, you not only heard zé horses, but zey heard you alzóóó." Paul blurted sarcastically, slurring the last word heavily with his accent. "I heard something . . . vague, but I didn't hear him say words, he must have communicated with feelings or something." Rose added, with astonishment. Ted's eyes grew as he too realized what had happened, but his perspective was that of a technician. "Damn we've got leakage. I’m running far too wide of a harmonics range, and probably too large a beam as well. I’m going to have to build a better focusing

control. The problem is that I’m already pushing the limits of current technology, and . . . wait a second. You communicated with horses? While we were transporting the crane back to town, you communicated with non lingual animals." "Yes!" Thomas enthusiastically answered. Everyone was looking back and forth at each other astounded with yet another incredible discovery. "This has been quite a week." Rose asserted. "First Ted discovers the secret to amplifying our projected brain waves, then we manage to outwit a group of corrupt government officials, and now Thomas can communicate with animals. I think Ann is right this is only the beginning of a very interesting journey." "Yeah, it looks like we better get used to being amazed." Thomas added still exhilarated from his experience. Ted had gone over to his keyboard and was calling up the schematics of his amplifier. Rose tried to get his attention, but he was totally engrossed with his diagrams. "Ann, you take Tanya and Paul and practice their skills, Ben you help them. Ruke, Maria, George, go back to your project. Thomas, Angie, and Terra, come with me. We'll all meet in here at noon and pry Ted away from his computer." They broke into their respective groups and went into separate rooms. Rose smiled, and slid a pad of lined paper to the center of the desk. "I want to work up a list of potential uses for this new ability. You are the individuals who will be applying it, so figure out how to employ it." Smiles abounded as they turned to their assignment. "We must learn the limits of what animals can understand, to make an accurate list." Terra announced.

"Lets assume for now that there are no limits. We'll make our list later as we discover things." Thomas proposed. "The obvious use would be to send an animal, perhaps a dog, where one of us could not go." Terra added. Angie silently nodded and smiled, but for her that was an enthusiastic response. Rose smiled at their involvement. "Let's start by coming up with as many applications as possible for those scenarios."

Tanya and Paul were engaged in a game that Ted had taught them, something he said he had picked up in college. A game that Rose thought was childish, but it turned out to be a fitting exercise for their kinetic talents. The game was called comb football. A pocket comb is normally flicked with a finger, which sends it sliding toward the opponent’s end of a table. Any attempt where the comb comes to a rest overhanging the edge of the table is considered a goal. If a goal is made, an extra point attempt would follow. The opponent would rest his wrists on the table, touching his index fingers at the tips, and extending his thumbs upward, forming the facsimile of a goal post. The individual who scored would prop the comb up at an angle against the finger of one hand. Then flick the high end of the comb with the other hand, sending the comb tumbling through the air in what looked amazingly like a field goal attempt. Tanya and Paul had both achieved near perfection at making goals by pushing the comb along with their minds. So they concentrated on field goals, a much more demanding mental discipline.

Paul formed a goal with his fingers as Tanya prepared to attempt her mental kick. "You must hold still your hands. You bother my concentration." Tanya quibbled. She was ahead by six points, but was determined to increase her lead. "I am stéll." He answered sounding impatient. "Like the Arch-dé-Triumph." Ann and Ben grinned at each other and shook their heads. "It is only a game." Ann ridiculed. "Yes, only a game." Supplemented Ben. "Qviet, I must concentrate." Tanya complained fixating on the comb leaning against her finger. Ann looked at the ceiling with mock disgust, and Ben rocked his head back and forth between the two stagnate players. Paul slumped his head to one side and smirked as he waited. Suddenly the comb was flying through the air toward Paul. The trajectory carried it to one side and a bit high of Paul's goal post/thumb, lodging neatly in his hair. Paul jerked his head with surprise, causing the comb to fly across the room. Ann, Tanya, and Ben erupted in laughter. After a quick double take Paul realized what had happened, and joined the mirth.

George, Maria, and Ruke sat huddled around the monitor in their room. "Like this?" Maria asked, looking up from the keyboard. George was over one shoulder and Ruke was over the other. "Yäs, Thät’s got it. Only a few more and we'll be finished." Ruke exclaimed jubilantly.

"Yeah, A few more and we'll be done. Then we can go get pissed." George offered. Both Maria and Ruke gave George a quizzical look in return. "Oh, yeah, sorry, getting’ pissed in New Zealand means havin’ some drinks." He grinned. "Actually, it means havin’ a lot of drinks." His grin grew even wider. Maria's mock scowl meant she probably would join them when the drinking started, but felt compelled to rebuke his statement in the interim. Ruke's large grin meant he was ready to start now.

Ted sat, with eyes glued to his monitor, and fingers scorching the keyboard. He tried one modification after another. He was oblivious to everything but the computer. At precisely noon, to his amazement, the computer sank away from him. No, he was being lifted away from it. He jerked his head around. Ruke and Thomas were lifting him by his chair. They carried him over, and dumped him out onto a blanket, they had laid on the floor behind him. He had only a moment to notice all the rest of the team holding the edges of the blanket, and then he was hoisted and carried outside. "No!" Ted screamed. "I can't leave it now!" Rose craned her head over the lip of the blanket and grinned ruthlessly down on him. "It'll be there when you get back, and it's your turn to cook." He was helpless in the sack like confinement, so he surrendered to his obvious fate. He heaved a huge sigh, switching his mind from his crazed technician mode to that of a subservient group member. "What's everybody want for lunch?" He asked in resignation.

"What's wrong with you Allen?” The rotund Mr. Bordensen asked. He had been on his knees for some time trying to revive the boy. As he ministered to Allen the huge crane drifted back into the equipment yard to almost exactly where it had always sat. Bordensen had not noticed it was missing in the first place, and did not see it float back seemingly of its own accord. Even if someone had seen it return they would have had a difficult time convincing themselves that they had actually witnessed the unbelievable event. “First you start stammering, you never stammered before. You got a problem with that. That somethin’ you didn't tell me about yourself. Then you go and faint, like some schoolgirl at a horror film.” Bordensen had not given the young man a chance to speak since his eyes had opened. Allen was having a hard enough time centering himself with the fear that he had lost the most valuable piece of equipment in the yard, but having his boss lean over him and chastise him was making him nauseous. ”What's wrong with you boy?" Bordensen continued. "The, the Crane." He stammered barely above a whisper. "What about the crane, you talking about that crane?" The obese man propped the slender youngster up so he could see the crane through the window, sitting exactly where it had always sat. The whole experience was too much for Allen, and boy's eyes grew till the whites could be seen all the way around. Then they rolled up and he passed out, sliding through Bordensen's arms bumping his head on the floor with a solid thud. Bordensen leaned back onto his haunches and grabbed the counter to brace himself. "Guess I better run across the street, and get the Doc. Can't have this goin’ on all day.”

Bordensen commented to the unconscious lad. He laboriously raised himself from the floor, and ambled over to the door. He turned back to look at the still unconscious young man. “Now who am I goin’ ta get ta fill in for you?" He sauntered out the door and waddled across the street mumbling to himself. "If it’s not one thing, it’s another, I knew I shouldn't of hired that boy. I hope the Doc's not too busy. If he can’t fix that boy I may have to work the yard alone all day. Hell’s bells I’m going to miss my Soaps. And I’ll probably never find out who . . ." Table of Contents

Intrigue Chapter 7

Bill waited in the shadows, impatiently watching the sidewalk. He fondled the large brown envelope again, wondering what was inside. He looked at it, but he could see nothing in the darkness. It did not matter, though. He knew from examining it earlier that the envelope revealed little of its contents. What was Ted up to out there in the desert that required this kind of skulking in shadows? In the five or six minutes he had been there not a single soul had walked by. He felt a slight chill run up his spine. He wondered how he had let himself get talked into waiting out in the cold, on a deserted street, in the middle of the night. Then he remembered. It had sounded like fun. He belatedly realized it was more fun watching it in movies than really doing it. But what really amazed him was that this time Ted had talked him into doing something strange and unusual. Normally it had been the other way around, He leading Ted into trouble. ‘Is that what I’m doing here, getting into trouble?’ His mind quickly jumped back to the vision of himself as a secret agent, and again he fantasized about being in the game. He heard steps echoing off the buildings. They seemed to draw nearer. He leaned over to the edge of the shadows, so he could see as far down the sidewalk as possible. Nothing was visible, but the footsteps stalked closer. They were the footsteps of a man, a big man. Bill leaned over and looked again. This time he saw a figure pass below a street light. In the nippy evening air he could see the tall man's breath forming a mist that flowed over his shoulder as he walked. The scene reminded Bill just how cold he was.

He stuffed the envelope under his arm and blew into his hands. Then he drew back quickly as he noticed his breath escaping the shadow. A moment later the street was silent again, the man was peering into the display window of the store Bill hid beside. The big man looked up and down the street to confirm their solitude. "I'm pleased to see you have finally discovered your true calling." Steven Marsh whispered without looking at Bill. "Very funny. Here." Bill held the package out to the edge of the shadow, and allowed Marsh to take it as he walked by acting as if nothing were going on. The two men slipped away each to his own destination, and the street fell once again into a wintry silence.

Marsh closed and locked his door. Then he put his coat in the closet and wearily walked to the extra bedroom that he used as an office. He dropped heavily into the chair by the desk. There was no one to disturb, so he did not bother trying to be quiet. His wife had died several years ago. The children were grown and on their own. He had long ago sold their house and moved into a more convenient apartment. He had been alone so long he did not notice the quiet emptiness anymore. As happened with many executives, the company had become his family. He opened the envelope Bill had passed to him in that cloak and dagger charade. Inside he found a letter, a tiny calculator, and a computer disk. He examined the disk. It had no label, and looked common enough. He set it by his computer. Next he looked at the calculator. It was wafer thin and black with ivory colored keys. He placed it on the desk near the disk. Then he held up the letter and read it.

Steven Marsh

We are sure you have reached at least some correct conclusions by this time. Yes, we have had some serious breakthroughs. We see the potential of our discoveries as virtually unlimited. We also see a sparkling future before us. We have decided, however, that the company cannot be trusted with such a source of great power. We are not sure anyone can be trusted with this responsibility. Your recent visit violated the project contract, leaving us with several new and interesting options. We, in no way hold you responsible for that infraction. In truth, we would like to give you the opportunity to join us. We need your administrative abilities, and corporate insights to achieve our goals. Beyond those talents we need someone of your integrity. If this offer interests you, place the disk you received with this letter in your computer, then turn it on. Instructions will run automatically.

Sincerely, TeleTech

Marsh's jaw had been slowly dropping as he read. Now it was wide open. He read the letter again, and his jaw slowly closed. "They can't be serious." He muttered to himself. He read the letter one more time, and then put the letter down and held the disk up before his face, regarding it with new interest.

He inserted the disk into the computer, and reached for the button, but stopped short. He looked at the plaque on the wall. The company had presented it to him last year, for meritorious service. Then he picked up the letter again. There was no signature, just the strange name at the end of the letter. He looked from it to the plaque and back, with his finger poised over the button. Could he even consider going against the company? The company was all that was left of his life. His Children never got in touch, in fact he had seen neither one of them since his wife's death. He glanced over at her picture on his desk. Things had changed at work too. Like his offspring his career had turned cold. Ted had been one of the few people to come to the company who had a spark of life and the ability to make things interesting. He had seen Rose grow through every stage of her life. Though he had not really been a part of her life he still felt linked to her. She too had been one of the up and coming stars within his authority, and there had been no nepotism involved. She had earned everything she had received, and he knew that. Both of them were contentious and moral. He knew he would trust either one of them with anything he owned. There were very few people in the world he would still say that of. He glanced back at the cold hard plaque on the wall, and the computer suddenly flashed to life as he reverently placed the letter beside the key. He was not sure he could go through with this, but he had to check it out. He had to give them a chance to explain, and he had to do something to put the spark back in his life, or soon he would be as cold and hard as that plaque. The monitor displayed the image of a desert oasis slowly materializing from a black screen. It seemed like a mirage solidifying before his eyes. Then Ted and Rose's

images developed beside the picturesque palm lined pond. "Hello Steven." A computer generated facsimile of Rose's voice came from the speaker. Then a voice resembling Ted's issued from the computer. "We really need your help, and we think you deserve a piece of this adventure." "We are sure you have strong loyalties to the company, and a decision like this could not be made lightly." Rose's voice added. Marsh looked up at the plaque again. He appreciated her ability to sense his dilemma. "Therefore, we have decided to offer you the opportunity to visit our new facilities, and determine our merit and need, first hand." Ted's computer voice offered. "The calculator will be your pass." "Please keep all this to yourself, until we have had a chance to explain further." Rose added. "Friday at ten fifteen in the evening drive to the company parking lot, and park in the northeast corner." “When you’re sure no one is around press the enter key three times, wait five seconds, and then press it three more times, and wait.” The screen faded to gray. Marsh leaned back in his chair, uncertain how he should be feeling. Then to his surprise Ted's face reappeared on the screen. "I've put a virus in this program, so it will self-destruct when it is finished. Don’t worry it won’t hurt your machine. Bye." Ted's face slowly disappeared dot by dot, until the screen was filled with random dots. Marsh reached over and pushed several keys, but the machine was locked up. He withdrew the disk, and switched off the power. He held the disk and tapped it against his

other hand. Then he stared off into space deep in contemplation. The possibilities and complications quickly began to boggle his mind. At least now he had a chance to find out what was going on out there. He knew they were right about one thing. The ability to control highly enhanced psychic powers would be incredibly dangerous in the wrong hands. He knew the company had handled that government intervention wrong too. He decided to sleep on it before he committed himself to anything. He tossed the disk in the trash and trudged off to bed.

The next evening he sat in his car in the parking lot monitoring his watch. At ten fifteen he glanced around the parking lot, and verified that he was alone. He pushed the enter button three times, waited, and then pressed it three times again. "Here goes nothing." He commented as he watched the calculator intently, but nothing happened. He turned his head around peering in every direction through the automobile's windows. Still nothing happened. "They did say to wait." He commented to himself, trying to bolster his patience. He heaved a deep sigh, and settled back into his seat. He had just made himself comfortable when the automobile leaped into the air and rocketed off to the east. He grabbed the steering wheel in a sudden panic. He swallowed and tried to calm himself. It was the speed that he focused on now. He felt he must be doing hundreds of miles per hour, but being less than fifty yards above the terrain made the speed seem faster than it was. Despite any illusions he knew he was moving incredibly fast.

Then it dawned on him, Ted really had made some breakthroughs. He found it incomprehensible that someone could hurl an automobile from L.A. to the middle of Nevada with their mind. He swallowed and realized the tension caused by the speed of his low level flight was causing him to grind his teeth. Knowing there was nothing he could do about his situation he forced himself to relax. "I'm too old for this kind of shi…." He grunted as a tree on top of a small hill passed only a few feet under the car. Then he realized he had started to grind his teeth again. The objects outside whizzed by so fast he could hardly tell what most of them were, and there was nothing he could do but watch. An involuntary blink brought a solution to him. Closing his eyes tightly he almost immediately started to relax. It helped, but he could not just sit there with his eyes closed. That was not in his nature. He opened his eyes carefully keeping his field of view below the windows. A newspaper was on the seat beside him. He picked it up, switched on the dome light, and started reading. A few minutes later he was pressed down into his seat, and he felt the sensation of rapidly rising. He glanced out the window to see that the car was contouring up a steep mountain. He swallowed deeply and went back to reading his paper. He felt cold, so he unconsciously started the motor and turned up the heater. He dropped the paper almost immediately, wondering if he should have started the motor. 'Could that cause a problem?' Nothing changed, so he went back to the paper. Occasionally he glanced out the window, to keep his curiosity at bay. He thought he was heading north, perhaps northeast. He felt the rising and sinking as the car contoured the mountains. Then he was over the flat desert, giving his stomach a chance to settle. He read on, trying to ignore the rush outside.

Suddenly light flooded through the windows startling him. He looked out the window to see Rose, and several of her confederates, standing beside the car looking in at him. He had not felt the vehicle come to a stop, and his surprise showed. "Welcome to our new facility, Steven." Rose smiled. "Would you like to come inside?" She motioned toward a nearby door. Steven turned off the engine, put his keys in his pocket, set the paper back on the seat, and stepped out of the vehicle. He did this all with an air of confidence and control. Neither of which he felt at the moment. "I'm glad to see that the ride was not too severe for you. I was concerned that it might be a bit of a shock, but Ted assured me that you could handle it. I'm relieved to see that he was right." She smiled, genuinely pleased to see him. "Let's go inside where it's warm." Marsh acknowledged her with a soft grunt, and followed her to the door. The others followed closely, and silently behind. Once inside Marsh noticed that this was the same building in which he had witnessed their original demonstration. The outside door closed as the last of the party finally got inside. Marsh pulled off his coat feeling his temperature rise rapidly, but before he could get it completely off someone had taken it from him. He turned to see Maria, he thought that was her name, walk down the hall with it. She not only had his coat but several others, she disappeared through the first door. "Hi, glad you came." Ted held out his hand as he walked out of the Pit, with Tanya peering over his shoulder. "I told ya he'd be okay." Ted taunted Rose. "Was that an ‘E’ ticket ride or what?"

"Wonderful." Marsh answered sarcastically. "I thought you said you had moved? This looks like the same place to me." "It is, sorta, same building different location. We will return the building as soon as we can relocate somewhere suitable. We needed to move to ensure our security, and this seemed the quickest and easiest solution." Ted replied waving his arm around indicating the building. "You moved it?" Marsh's jaw went slack, but he caught it before it fell open. It was not a fast enough recovery to escape Rose and Ted, however. Marsh felt awkward, wanting to comment on the feat, but not knowing what to say. Ann handed him a cup of steaming coffee. Which was just what he needed. He turned to Ann and offered his thanks, relieved at the change of focus. Rose and Ted smiled at each other, pleased with the impact they were having on Marsh. "I don't suppose you need any more demonstrations." Ted chuckled. He knew Marsh was aware of how important their discoveries were, and how devastating they might be in the wrong hands. Marsh eyed him sternly as he took another sip of his steaming coffee. "No. I've seen enough for now." He finally answered, then added in a voice that meant he was getting down to business. "You said something about some goals. Why don't you tell me what you have in mind to do with your new found power?" He looked from Ted to Rose, and then added. "Who is the leader now, anyway?" Both Ted and Rose started to answer. They stopped, looked at each other, and then in unison told the other to go ahead. Ted waved his open hand to Rose, indicating she should answer. "As you can see, we are still a little disorganized. We all feel that Ted

is responsible for what has happened, but he seems to feel it was just luck and circumstance." She smiled and shrugged, then continued. "As for our goals, we have many ideas, but we are not sure which way to go. I feel like a kid in a candy shop. Everywhere I look, I see the promise of delight and fulfillment, but there are too many choices. How do I know I'm choosing something that won't hurt others? We are all plagued by this dilemma." She looked around at the others, and received nods of agreement. "Yeah, we're all worried about the consequences." Ted added supporting Rose. Rose continued with added vigor. "Our goals are sort of vague. We have discussed it extensively, but it's the candy shop scenario. We have decided that we want more than mere rewards. We want to do something to significantly . . . alleviate some of society's problems, or . . ." She threw up her arms in frustration. "We need guidance from someone we can trust, someone who can set priorities for us." She smiled at Marsh, and anxiously waited for his reply. Marsh looked around and found the same anticipatory expression on every face. "So you think I am the person you want. You think I would be capable of balancing the fate of the world and your desires. All your desires." He waved his hand around the room to include everyone. Marsh was about to continue, but Rose interrupted. "You've already dealt with similar situations involving power and fate within the company. Besides . . ." Ted put his hand on her arm and pulled her back, stopping her. "Want me to kick you again?" She turned protecting her fanny from him. "I think he's already decided." Ted advised her, and then turned to Marsh. "You have, haven't you?"

Marsh was sedately sipping his coffee. He turned to Ann. "Could I have another cup please?" She bowed her head in compliance, accepted the cup, and disappeared behind the others. Marsh drew out the moment, playing on the drama. He could be a great deal of help to them and he knew it. "The first thing we need to do, is establish a hierarchy." It took only a moment for everyone to realize he had accepted the position. Rose flew forward and hugged him fiercely. "I was so afraid you'd turn us down, and I didn't know who else we could trust! You've always been there for Da . . . the company, ever since I can remember." Her emotional outbreak caught him off guard. He reached around her back and gently squeezed her shoulders comforting her. The fact that she had almost said dad instead of company concerned him. She was keeping her true identity a secret and hadn't told anyone about her father yet. He decided not to break her faith, and let her tell them in her own time. "One of the reasons for my decision was your predicament." Rose stepped back and looked quizzically back in response to Marsh's statement. "If you had to turn to someone else. The world has changed a lot in the months you've been isolated. A major recession has rocked the world and the recession here has gotten worse. A lot of people, especially people in positions of power, have changed their propensities. Policies are changing too. The powers that be are protecting themselves in these uncertain times. I'm not sure who to trust anymore either." He gazed at the ceiling and pulled at his chin with his fingers. "Do you have a conference room in this building, someplace where we can all sit at a table?" Ted answered. "We will in a couple minutes." He grinned broadly and nodded to Ruke and George.

"I think that's enough." Marsh stretched, and yawned, then surveyed the rest of the tired looking group. "Yes, enough. Before we break up though, Ann, would you read that list again?" Ann had assumed the role of secretary. She held up her note pad and read so everyone could hear. "First, you return and resign from the company Monday morning. Second, you locate a headquarters for us in San Francisco. Third, we relocate personnel and equipment, and restore this building to its original location. Fourth, you file incorporation papers under the name of TeleTech Solutions Incorporated. Fifth, we make preliminary investments. Sixth, we meet again in our new location with all members present." She laid the note pad down and settled back into her seat. "That should take about two weeks, if everything goes as we've planned." Marsh added. Ted looked at his watch. "We've been at this all night. You're right, we better get you back before it gets light out." Rose gave Marsh a big hug, then stepped aside to allow the others to shake his hand and thank him. Goodbyes were said to Terra and Ann, who were going to accompany Marsh back and help facilitate his tasks. Maria brought their coats, and Ted reached out to shake Marsh's hand too. "See ya in about a week." Ted smiled, and then stepped over to his controls. Tanya went into the pit and prepared herself for the transport. "Remember, Report twice a day, noon and seven." Rose reminded Terra. "I will keep you informed." Terra answered.

The three of them filed out the door and took their places in the car. Marsh started the engine immediately, to get the heater going. A moment later the car lifted and raced across the dark terrain. Ann had been selected to go along and continue in her role as secretary. Terra was selected so the two groups could communicate covertly. Although they were not too sure another telepath would not be able to intercept the messages. They had decided it would be difficult for anyone else to interpret their communications, especially if they limited any specifics.

"I told them we made it here safely. Terra stated, looking up from her seat at Marsh's dining table. “I also informed them that there was no loss of amplitude over the distance.” “Loss of amplitude?” Marsh asked sleepily. They had arrived at the apartment shortly after dawn that morning. “That would be the same as volume, how loudly I hear the thought.” Terra tried to stifle a yawn but failed. “Thomas was concerned, but Ted was sure there would be very little loss.” “Oh, I see. Well, goodnight ladies.” Marsh was yawning almost constantly as he crept off to bed. They slept past noon that day, and ate a quiet lunch at the mall before rounding up a few necessities, including some fresh clothing for Ann and Terra. They went to bed early that night looking forward to Monday’s endeavors.

Table of Contents

Relocation Chapter 8

"Wait here." Marsh advised Ann and Terra when they had arrived in his office early Monday morning. "If it's going to take more than a few minutes I'll call you here." He turned abruptly and marched out to confront his associate VPs with his decision to leave. He carried himself with new vigor. Once again there was purpose in his life. "Good luck!" They chimed at his retreating back. They also felt exhilaration, even though their only duties for a while would be to do little more than sit and wait. "Please let us hurry, I want to be away from this place as soon as possible." Ann urged suddenly becoming anxious. They started placing Marsh’s things from his desk and shelves into boxes they had brought. Terra sensed Ann's apprehension even before she had voiced it. "Do you expect something bad to happen?" She asked bearing in mind Ann's precognitive ability. "No. It’s just that I do not like this place." She sneered the words in a way that made Terra hurry even more. They had only just finished when the door burst open. Marsh stomped into the room. "They can all go down in blazes.” He fumed. “We'll need a car, they took mine back. Wouldn't even let me take it to the airport. All that talk about company family and taking care of people was just a crock!” He marched around the desk twice as he ranted. He stopped suddenly taking stock of the nearly empty shelves and desk. He looked at Ann and Terra and produced a meek apologetic smile, then asked. “Did Jill return my call?"

"No, the phone has . . ." Terra had just started to answer when the phone rang. Marsh knew his secretary wouldn't pick it up, because she was not due in for several minutes. "Marsh speaking." Ann and Terra heard the phone mumble in reply. "Right now would be good. Can you pick us up?" The phone mumbled again. "Ten minutes, good, we'll meet you out front." Marsh listened a second. "No, just two friends, Ann and Terra. They're not with the company." Marsh listened a moment then hung up the phone. "That was Jill. She said she's got several places for us to look at, and she'll pick us up out front in a few minutes." He looked down at the phone with concern. "She said she's dropping the company’s account. If I'd called her on company business, she would have said no." He sounded confused and concerned. "I don't think she would have picked us up either." He paused a moment pondering that thought. "She's handled this account for five years, and it’s a lucrative one I know. This is strange. Someone must have done something that really upset her. I don't know what's goin’ on with this organization, but I'm going to have to talk to Duncan as soon as we get squared away." "What about these boxes, what do we do with them?" Terra asked. There were six medium sized boxes sitting on the desk, and all of them were full and heavy. "We'll just have to take them with us." Marsh pulled two boxes over to him, then stacked two more on top of the first two. Then he wrapped his arms around the bottom two and lifted all four, leaving one box each for Ann and Terra. Both women were shocked. That load had to weigh at least a hundred pounds. "If someone could open the door, it would help." Terra was the first to break out of the shock. She jumped for the door. "Are you going to be okay?" She asked with trepidation.

Several minutes later Marsh gently lowered the boxes to the curb. He had carried them through the maze of corridors to the elevator, and down to the lobby security desk. He had allowed Ann to remove the keys from his pocket and give them to the security guard. Then they had walked out to the sidewalk. Through all this He had never set the boxes down, or complained of the weight. The girls put their boxes down also, still amazed at the feat of strength and stamina Marsh had exhibited. A few minutes later another security guard showed up with the three suitcases they had left in his car. "Thanks." Marsh grumbled not really sounding appreciative. "Are you sure you're okay?" Terra asked for the fifth time since they had left the office, but she received no reply. They waited in silence until a few minutes later a minivan pulled up to them. An athletic woman in her thirties, with shoulder length blonde hair, climbed out, walked around, and slid open the side door. When she turned back to face Marsh, he held out a welcoming hand. She looked at the hand a moment, then stepped forward and embraced the big man. "I'm glad you're leaving those guys Steve. They don't deserve someone like you." Ann looked over at Terra who looked back in surprise. They quickly returned their attention to Marsh, as he turned to introduce them. "Jill, this is Ann, and Terra." He stepped over to the boxes and picked up two at a time, and tossed them in the back of the van. Then he jumped into the front seat. "You in a hurry." Jill asked leaning in the window. "The sooner I get away from here the better." He answered gruffly. Jill, Ann, and Terra quickly entered the car. "She's broadcasting, I can hear some of her thoughts!"

Terra whispered to Ann. "Do you think she can hear you?" Ann whispered back. "I didn’t check, I wasn’t sure I should." Terra replied. "Next time the car is stopped, try." Ann advised. "Okay." Terra sounded skeptical about whether she should or not, but she had decided to follow Ann's advice. Ann seemed rarely to be wrong, especially about people. Jill smoothly brought the van to a stop at the next light. She leaned around the back of her seat and started to say something to her passengers. She found Terra holding her fingers to her temples and concentrating. Jill was about to ask why, but froze with her eyes bulging instead. Her trance was broken a moment later by the blaring horn of an impatient motorist. The light had changed, and she was holding up traffic. Jill turned to face forward quickly, but hesitated in a state of shock. The horn blared from behind again, and she jerked out of her shock and pressed down the accelerator. "I'm, glad you recommended I wait till she was stopped." Terra whispered to Ann. "I assume she heard you." Ann replied. "That would be my assumption also." Terra added. Marsh had not witnessed any of the event, but he started to wonder if anything was wrong when Jill started constantly looking at her rear view mirror. She asked while staring at the mirror, "You did that, didn't you?" "Yes, did you know that you were sensitive?" Terra asked. "What's going on here?" Marsh broke into the conversation. "Terra communicated telepathically with Jill, she has talent." Ann replied before Terra could answer.

"Is this sort of thing going to happen everywhere we go?" Marsh questioned. "This is the first time in my life I have sensed another talent in public." Terra's surprise was conveyed in her reply. "I've heard voices before." Jill answered, sounding a little dazed. "I . . . I thought there was something wrong with me. Try it again, I want to hear it again, Please." She pleaded. "I am watching, the road . . ." Her voice trailed off as she realized Terra had done it again. "She's definitely talented." Terra said after observing Jill's eyes in the mirror. "You can broadcast too." Terra watched the mirror as Jill's eyes grew with excitement and comprehension. Jill had to swerve as a passing vehicle sounded its horn. She had drifted over the line. "Do you want me to drive?" Marsh asked snidely. Jill glanced over at him, and her expression flashed from scorn to excited acceptance. She practically slid to a stop narrowly missing another car as she swerved over to the curb. She was in the back seat between Terra and Ann before Marsh had recovered from the abrupt halt. "Next time I'm bringing men, you women are going to be the death of me!" He cursed to himself, but loudly enough to be heard in the back seat. They ignored him. He switched to the driver's seat and proceeded silently to chauffeur them to the airport. "How do I broadcast?" Jill queried. "How do you know I can?" "When you picked us up, I heard you broadcasting. That’s why I tested you." Terra answered with pleasure in the wonder Jill was displaying.

"Oh no, what did you hear, what did I say, uh, broadcast, uh, whatever." Jill was getting flustered, not sure if she should be embarrassed or what. "It was just numbers, oh, and a time." Terra replied soothingly. Jill considered for a moment. "Six twenty-eight, and ten fifteen?" She asked excitedly. Terra nodded. "The flight, I was repeating the flight number and boarding time. I was concentrating on them, trying to memorize them." Her excitement faded and she stared blankly for a moment as comprehension crept into her consciousness. "Let me try and see if I can do it on purpose." "Try some words this time." Terra urged. They waited only a second. "Okay, Okay, Jillian Patricia Chapman!" She put her hands to her ears, to show how strongly she had received the transmission. "Once is enough." She leaned forward to speak to Ann. "She's even stronger than Thomas." "Who's Thomas?" Jill inquired, her curiosity bubbled while her emotions swelled. She was ecstatic. There was nothing wrong with her. After all these years to discover she had a talent, and not a defect. The account with Marsh, had been the majority of her business in Los Angeles, and with it gone she had decided to start a new life. She felt this was a wonderful discovery for starting off that new life. Ann and Terra leaned forward, and examined each other's expressions, trying to decide how much they should tell her. "Thomas is just another telepath." Ann finally answered. The somewhat cryptic answer disappointed Jill, and the three of them sat in silence for a moment. Jill was not going to let that stifle her enthusiasm, though, and she and Terra played and experimented for the rest of the short trip to the airport.

They arrived in San Francisco just before noon. As the three confidants rode in a cab from the airport Terra heard Thomas's voice emanating solidly from the center of her brain. Jill had taken another cab to pick up the documents on the properties they would be viewing, and she was several miles away. Consequently, Terra was not concerned about Jill intercepting the message. In fact she was relieved that the timing had worked out so well. Terra immediately informed Thomas of Jill, and then told him everything else they had done. He was particularly amused with her exaggerated description of Marsh carrying a ton in boxes all the way down to the curb. He flashed an image of Marsh holding Ted in a headlock to punish him for misbehaving. She giggled and everyone turned to look at her. Thomas continued, informing her that when he contacted her at seven o’clock that evening they would have an answer about Jill. Suddenly he was no longer there, and she felt a deep emptiness. She grasped the electronic key ring fob Ted had given her. A simple relay he had called it, but it worked like a charm. When Marsh looked, she nodded affirmatively, confirming that she had accomplished her task of communicating their messages to Thomas. Jill joined them later that afternoon, and took them to the first property. It was not satisfactory, but they looked it over thoroughly anyway, even checked the neighborhood. Marsh explained each discrepancy to Jill, and with each one she would check her folder and remove prospective properties. By the time they had finished reviewing the first property Jill only had two possibilities left from the original, seemingly endless, list. She found a phone and called to check on access to the two remaining properties. One they could see that afternoon, but the other would have to wait until the following morning.

They motored over to the second property in her rented car. This property checked out okay, but Marsh wanted to see the other before he chose. "Where are you staying?" Marsh asked as they drove off. Jill answered coyly. "With friends, in south San Francisco." "Well, then drop us off at a convenient hotel, something on your way. Will you join us for dinner?" Asked Marsh. "I'm sorry I promised I'd have dinner with my friends. I would like to find out more about this telepathy thing though." She added sheepishly. "We have tomorrow for that." Chirped Ann. They rode on to the hotel in silence. Fortunately it turned out to be only a short way. "Okay, I'll pick you up at six o'clock in the morning. We don't want to have to deal with rush hour traffic." Jill reminded as she dropped them off. As Marsh checked them into the hotel Terra urged him to hurry, it was getting close to seven, and time for Thomas's call. They arrived at their rooms just in time for the transmission from Thomas. He told her that they had decided to look more deeply into Jill's background. He laid out exacting guidelines for her to follow in relating to Jill. Terra informed him about the buildings they had seen, and confirmed that they were still on schedule. Then he broke the connection. Again she felt a sudden and significant loss, a feeling of profound loneliness.

The next morning they met in the lobby, and then headed out to look at the last property. On the way Jill tried her broadcasting. She asked Terra if she could still hear her. She was rewarded with a soft yes humming in her brain. She looked in the mirror

and saw a strong friendly smile on Terra's face. She had to wrestle her high spirits to keep them from carrying her away. They parked in front of the last prospective location Jill had to show. Terra and Ann decided it should be scratched off the list immediately. It was an old mansion that had been abused as offices for several years. Maintenance had been ignored, and it showed poorly. It was obviously in need of extensive repairs. Marsh wanted to check it thoroughly though, and it took them most of the morning. By the time they had finished Ann and Terra had revised their evaluation of the place. They thought it had true character, especially with the garden areas in the rear, but there still seemed to be an excessive amount of work needed. Terra took Marsh aside and told him that Jill was supposed to listen in on Thomas's call, and the garden where they were, seemed the perfect place. When they informed Jill she would be included in the telepathic communication her excitement bloomed. Terra also suggested that they get some food and have a picnic on the lawn. It sounded like the perfect plan. "Telepathic communication for company business sounds so strange." Jill pried for more details. "Actually we have three telepaths on staff." Marsh boasted. "So your new company takes this stuff seriously?" Jill pried again. "Yes, definitely." Marsh insisted. At that point Ann turned and walked away. Ann had lost control and could not keep herself from grinning. Marsh was playing Jill like a fine instrument, leading her right up the proverbial path. She sobered herself and returned to the others with her grin

in check. Ann was just about to try explaining why she had walked off when Thomas called. She knew he had called by the expression of complete concentration on Terra's face, and Jill's expression of utter amazement. First Thomas greeted Terra, and then he asked if Jill could hear. She eventually confirmed that she could, and then Terra reported on the last property. After a short delay Thomas asked what Marsh's opinion was. Marsh had not offered one yet. "Mr. Marsh, they want your opinion on the properties." Terra advised. "I think this place is the best choice." His comment was straightforward and immediate. He had already made up his mind. Both Ann and Terra stared at him aghast. "What about our schedule?" Terra blurted. "This place will take weeks to clean up." He didn't offer another word. He merely waited for her to report. Terra eventually told Thomas what Marsh had said. Thomas asked her to wait. A few minutes later he told her that Marsh had the final decision. Jill had been sitting on the blanket in a state of utter amazement the entire time, she suddenly asked him where he was, and she sensed his amusement. He told her that he was not in the city, in fact, not even in the state. She unintentionally broadcast the obvious question, how could this be possible? She felt another chuckle, then he told her it was a company secret. He broke the connection, leaving Terra and Jill with that strong sense of loss and loneliness that followed the end of each enhanced telepathic communication. Terra turned to Marsh. "You are to decide which property." "Jill, write up the papers for this place, we would like to move in immediately. If that's possible?" Marsh requested, with the conviction of a judge.

"Wait a minute, what kind of company is this, anyway." Jill demanded. Her curiosity overwhelming all the other emotions she was feeling. "We'll pay the asking price, no haggling." Marsh deliberately avoided her question. "But, I . . . You're not going to answer me, are you?" "Would you be interested in a retainer? We will be needing other real estate in the near future." Marsh added, and Terra and Ann watched to see when she would catch on. "There's something funny about this comp . . . Did you just offer me a job?" "Yes. Interested? You'd get to communicate with Thomas occasionally, Terra too, and there's Angie also. You'd meet her eventually." Marsh enticed her, playing her again as he had before. "I, ah . . . this is too . . ." After stammering for a second she recovered her wits. "How much?"

That evening when Thomas called, Jill informed him that everything was approved on the property. A special deal had been made that allowed them to move in immediately after the check cleared. Jill enjoyed these mental conversations so much that she completely forgot everything else. Thomas congratulated her on becoming involved with TeleTech. He asked her to wait a moment, the connection broke, and she looked at Terra questioningly. Terra only shrugged. A moment later Angie greeted her. She could tell the difference between the two communications. It was not the same kind of difference as hearing two different voices, but each person she had communicated with seemed to have their own flavor or complexion. She found it difficult to describe, even to

herself. While she was engrossed in savoring these sensations, and noticing the nuances, Terra jumped in and finished the report. The connection was broken, and Jill suddenly felt the deep sense of loss, only this time it was much stronger. She looked over to Terra. "I feel it too." She comforted. Her face also showed sadness. "It's almost, like someone died." Jill replied sounding distressed. "You become accustomed to the feeling." Terra added, but she was not sure she really meant it. Prepared was probably a better descriptor.

The next morning after walking the check through the banks, they moved what little they had brought with them into the mansion, and they each claimed a room. Jill offered to get some furniture, while the others commenced business operations. Terra and Ann started cleaning, and Marsh took care of the incorporation papers. That afternoon they all pitched in and helped clean and make a list of needed repairs. That night all four of them went out to dinner to celebrate being a day ahead of schedule. The next morning Marsh met with a broker and arranged to purchase some carefully picked stocks. Stocks that, by using their special talents, they were sure they could encourage to increase in value. This way they could quickly build a healthy profit to pay for their initial setup. By noon Marsh was ready to report through Terra and Jill that everything was moving more quickly than they had anticipated.

Friday evening Ted, Tanya, and Angie arrived in time for dinner. Angie was very excited to meet Jill. The others were concerned about her enthusiasm, and continually reminded her not to say too much in front of Jill. Being the youngest, and most reserved

member of the group she tended to be overly protected by the others. Her introverted nature didn’t emerge around Jill. It was as though having their initial introduction be psychic made their relationship comfortable from the start. Marsh, however, felt it was still too early to trust any outsiders, even someone he knew and trusted, and who seemed as appropriate to their organization as Jill. After she had left for the night, Ted set up shop in a small room in the basement. It was the most isolated place they could find. Within a few hours they were ready to try their first transport from their new facility. While Marsh, Ann, Terra, and Jill were in the city setting things up, Ted and his group had been modifying a bus to use for transporting the rest of the team and the equipment. The back of the bus had been stripped out, and large doors had been installed for loading and unloading equipment. It could comfortably hold fifteen people, and enough equipment to set up a complete control center. It could be driven if needed, but they intended to transport it kinetically most of the time. It had a tiny bathroom, and an even smaller kitchen. It wasn't pretty, but it was a practical solution for their needs. Everything was ready for the transport. Tanya rested at her couch. Ted did a last minute check of the portable amplifier system he had brought with him, it was not a complete control center, but it was enough to accomplish the task at hand. "Two minutes everyone. Let's get ready." Ted called, after glancing at his watch for the twentieth time. Marsh sat with a cup of coffee and watched Ted at his machines. This was the first chance he had to watch the operation from the control center since the original demonstration.

Ted started the process by sliding a small lever on his panel up to its limit. Then he pressed the intercom button. “Okay Tanya.” Tanya was lying in a lounge chair in the next room. It was a small, crudely built isolation room, and nothing like the facility they had in Lovelock, but they no longer needed that level isolation. Marsh sat forward to better view what he felt would be an event, but he was disappointed. The fact was, very little happened to suggest anything interesting occurred. Ted sat in the center of several monitors, constantly moving his head from one to the next, each pouring out numbers, graphs, and text that were meaningless to Marsh. Ted turned to Marsh with a grin. "Well, they're on their way." He turned back to his monitors. Then added over his shoulder, "It'll take almost forty minutes, and there won’t be much to see till they arrive. Why don’t you take a break. I’ll warn you when they are getting close." Marsh stiffened a little. "Can Tanya handle that? It seems an awfully long time." Ted winced at the thought of trying to concentrate that long on anything. It took a special person to handle that kind of pressure. "Tanya's really good at it, her record's ninety-six minutes. Course the load wasn't this big, but yeah, she can handle it. Think you could get me a cup of coffee?" "Sure, I'll be right back." Marsh rose and walked over to the steps. He glanced back at Ted, and wondered just how complex this system was. ‘Will somebody else stumble onto this secret in the near future. How would they handle their discovery?’ That was a difficult train of thought, which could be maddening to pursue. He ascended the

stairs, but just before he reached the top he stopped suddenly. He had heard something that he didn't like. "Hell! They're being followed." Ted blurted, and jumped to the keyboard and typed frantically. Marsh rushed down the stairs and stood behind Ted, frustrated with his inability to help, or even understand. "What's happened, is it bad?" Ted reached over and pressed the intercom button. "Tanya, they've got a tail, don't do anything yet, but be ready." Ted's hands were flying between switches and knobs. Some screens changed the information they were displaying, and Ted's hands settled on the keyboard. After a minute of rattling keys he seemed to relax a little, and he reached for the intercom again. "Okay we've got plenty of time, you're out running him, but we need to change course and keep them over the road. Turn five degrees North and slowly descend. When we're out of his range, I'll let you know, and you can bring um in. You Okay?" A small green light flicked on briefly near the intercom. "Good job Tanya." Ted intently watched his monitors, occasionally keying in a command. Marsh was almost frantic. "What's going on, Are they in trouble?" Just then Ann appeared with two cups of fresh coffee. She set one down next to Ted, then took Marsh by the arm and gave him the other cup. "He will explain when he is able. Do not worry." "Okay we lost him, bring um on in." Ted visibly relaxed, and swiveled his chair around grabbing his coffee as he turned to face Marsh. "I'm getting to where I hate the Air Force." Marsh waited impatiently for Ted's explanation, while Ann still held his arm. Ted looked over his shoulder at one of the monitors to verify everything was still okay.

"Probably just some pilot out on night maneuvers. Either he wasn't fast enough, or he didn't get a lock on um. We had a close call when we put the building back at the Lovelock site too." Ted glanced back at the monitors again. "We're going to have to come up with a better way of transporting things, or we'll get caught some day." Before Marsh could say anything, Ted had swiveled back, and was engrossed in his systems again. "Come with me." Ann commanded softly, as she dragged the big man to the stairs. "We can inspect the conference room." Marsh allowed himself to be dragged away. Relief flooded over him as soon as he was out of the control center. He decided it would probably be a good thing if he did not hang around Ted’s control center during this type of operation. The stress involved with not fully understanding the process would drive him nuts. The bus settled gently behind the big house a little while later. Marsh felt it was almost anticlimactic following the fuss in the control room. After a hasty reunion, the newcomers were shown to their rooms. Tanya, however, had to be helped up to hers. At least this time there were enough rooms for everyone to have his or her own. Table of Contents

Embarrassment Chapter 9

Rose did not sleep that night. She was too anxious. The meeting tomorrow was the beginning of something big and new and grand, and she was feeling very selfconscious about her value to the group. Ted had taken charge before, and now Marsh was there. She was distraught, concerned that she was just in the way. After all, her psychic talents were nowhere near as strong as the others, and she was no longer needed as an administrator. She was afraid she no longer served a valid purpose within that highly interdependent team. She was plagued by that suspicion, and felt she might serve matters best by leaving. On the other hand her fondness of Ted had made him the heaviest weight on the stay side of her decision scale. The thought of leaving him now was causing a burning pain deep in her breast. They had so little time to spend together lately. He had been too busy making the equipment work and coordinating the beehive of activity that had become TeleTech. These thoughts and others crowded her mind keeping her awake. She decided to take a walk in the gardens. Perhaps the cool night air would dampen the burning pressure within her. There was never total darkness in a city. This was something she had grown used to, but now she found the early morning twilight and city noises eerie and circumspect. She walked carefully amongst the shadows of the garden path. Finally she began to relax. A lull in the distant city clamor brought Rose to a startled stop. Rustling noises from the alley froze her muscles with suspicion. Eventually, as she listened in the near silence, it

became apparent that there was someone going through their garbage. The intruder was no more than twenty feet away. She wished she had dressed before leaving her room. The furry slippers and heavy night coat would make it hard to run, and she would be embarrassed to be seen in the skimpy nightgown she wore beneath. Then Rose heard the intruder speak. It was a hushed, gravelly, masculine voice. "You found anything yet?" It whispered. "Just cleanin’ junk. Hey what was that?" A squeaky, high-pitched voice replied. Rose felt a wave of panic rushing over her. Had she been discovered? She managed to squelch her panic, and remain still. The noise that had alerted the infiltrators had come from the other direction. She listened intently not moving a muscle, holding her hands cupped over her mouth. She wished fervently that someone were with her. Then she revised the wish to having Ted to hold onto. "It's just a cat ya harebrain." The gravelly voice sneered, never breaking above a whisper. "There's nothing here." Rose heard something drop into the trashcan. "Let's go check out that bus. Maybe we can figure out how it got here." Rose realized that she was between them and the bus. Panic rushed over her again, and she stepped backward, afraid to run and not knowing where to hide. Plop, she fell backward over a short shrub landing painfully on her fanny. The noise of her legs passing through the bush, and her splash were covered by the sound of the second infiltrator dropping his load of trash. "Shhhh you idiot! You want to wake everybody?" "Sorry Jim." The squeaky voice whined.

Rose sat with her hair tangled in one shrub, her foot still stuck in the one she had tripped over, and her hands buried in a thick layer of mud. Maria had been watering, and Rose had floundered into the muddiest spot in the whole garden. Rose realized that she had to stay completely still if she was to remain undiscovered. She held her breath and closed her eyes as the two men approached. They came within inches of her foot. It still hung in the bush. She released a muted sigh after they had passed. The intruders stealthily approached the bus and carefully examined it. Rose dared not move. Any sound would alert them, so she lay there with her hair tangled, her foot hung up, and the mud soaking through to her skin. She waited for what seemed an eternity. Shivering with fear, and cold, as the moisture robbed her of the warmth that the heavy night coat had once held in. Finally the two cretins who had precipitated her misery left, passing again within inches. Now she feared that her uncontrollable shivering would cause her to make a noise and be discovered. They walked right by her without noticing once again. She waited several minutes after they had disappeared out the back gate before finally moving. The dawn light was spreading and sunrise was only a few minutes away. Rose pulled her foot from the bush, and tried to rise. But the slipper on her other foot had sunk well into the mud, and with her hair caught in the bush her balance was thrown off again. She fell back into the puddle. Furious, frustrated, and covered with mud she yanked her hair free of the bush with her muddy hands. She finally raised herself to her feet, shakily placed her now muddy foot into the even muddier slipper. The sloshing steps she made as she trudged back to the house unnerved her. Now she faced the greatest terror yet. Being captured by those frightening men would be nothing compared to the embarrassment of

being seen in her present condition by her comrades. Comrades she already felt so undeserving of. Covered with mud, twigs, and leaves, dripping a trail behind her Rose approached the house, the fear of being seen by some early riser caused terror to ball up in her throat. She especially feared to let Ted see her this way. He was the worst kibbutz in the group, and she wanted a different kind of attention from him than that. She made her way as quietly and quickly as she could toward her room. She reached the top of the stairs, and carefully peered both directions, painfully aware of the sloshing noise she made whenever she moved. She experienced a brief moment of relief, no one appeared to be up yet. Before she could make it to her room though, Ruke emerged from his, dressed in sweats, and ready to go for a morning jog. "Whät häppened to you?" He inquired, much too loudly for Rose's comfort. “Shhh!” She whispered. She did not want to stand in the hall explaining. "I fell in the mud." She snapped in a quick whisper over her shoulder while she rushed toward her room. Ruke watched in utter amazement as she sloshed by, then looked down at the messy trail behind her, barely believing what he had seen. "Ruke, you ready to go?" Ted asked as he emerged from his room, his attention focused down on a sticky sweatshirt zipper. Rose's attention had not shifted back from over her shoulder, and in her rush she plowed into Ted knocking them both to the floor and covering him with mud. The sound of their crash brought several curious faces to their doors. Rose was lying on top of Ted. Her wet hair, riddled with debris, covered his face. The wetness of her robe was soaking into his sweats. He looked at her questioningly. "Rose?"

She stifled a scream as tears welled up in her eyes. In a panic she struggled to her feet as quickly as her heavy wet garments would allow, and ran whimpering to the privacy of her room. Ted sat up held out his dripping hands examining the mud covering his running suit and dripping from his arms. He looked up at Ruke with a bewildered grin. "I've been slimed." A moment later both men were roaring with laughter. "Who is responsible for this mess?" Ann intoned as she approached Ted in a matronly manner. "Don't look at me!" Ted held up his hands in mock fear. "Rose did it. At least I think it was Rose." The laughter died in the face of Ann's seriousness, and in the silence they could hear sobbing from behind Rose's door. "Oh my, it’s the mud!" Ann closed her eyes in disappointment, remembering the earlier vision. "I will check on her." Ann added with concern as she stepped over the slimy wet trail, and made her way to Rose's room. "If I can help,” Ted stammered, “or do anything.” He added. “Please let me know. I'll be down in the kitchen after I clean up." Ann only nodded as she passed on her way to comfort Rose.

By the time the meeting started that morning Rose had not only cleaned herself and the mess she had made, but had managed to completely regain her composure. "When I was sure they were gone I came in." She finished without showing the slightest trace of the embarrassment she still felt. Then she sat relinquishing the floor.

"Well, I've heard enough. I'd like to postpone the rest of this meeting until we've looked into this matter. It may come to nothing, but lets play it safe." Marsh said ending the quiet that had followed Rose's narration of her messy encounter. He quickly scribbled something on a piece of paper, and then walked to the door, motioning with a finger to his lips for everyone to follow quietly. He stopped at the door ushering them out of the room. As individuals passed he showed them the message he had written. It said, 'CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY. WE MAY BE BUGGED!' Marsh pulled Ted aside, and when everyone else had left he whispered into his ear. "Did you bring any of your scanning equipment?" Ted nodded, and smiled. Then he walked off motioning for Marsh to follow. When they reached the basement Ted opened a large gray metal trunk, and waved with pride at the assortment of electronics. "It'll take a while to get set up. How about getting’ some coffee while I pull this stuff out?" Marsh grinned conspiratorially, then bounded up the stairs toward the kitchen. He was starting to enjoy some of the intrigue. It made him feel young again. "Oh, and find George, he'll be useful with this." Ted called after him.

"A complex security system, huh?" Miles stroked his chin as he walked over to a large picture window, contemplating the information his men had just delivered. The bus had arrived a couple of days ago, and his men still had nothing to show for their poking around. Now they had to deal with heightened security. "I knew something was going on over there. They are not putting anything past me!" He pivoted sharply to face his men again. "I want round-the-clock surveillance. You can pull three more men for that. I want that place watched from every direction." He reached over to the phone on his desk and

pushed the intercom button. "Get Barclay, Franklin, and Martin. Assign them to Jim and Howard." He spat the orders, and then turned to leer out the window again. "I am going to enjoy this." He commented icily to the window, then turned and smiled at Jim and Howard. He was pleased with how uncomfortable his smile made them. "You've got forty-eight hours to get me something. Either serious intelligence or hard evidence." His sugarcoated tones brought their hearts up into their throats. He smiled even more broadly and watched both men swallow the lumps he had created in their throats. "Get out." He sneered finally, as he turned to gaze at his commanding view out the window. "Yes, Sir!" The two answered as they stumbled backward out of the office, trying unsuccessfully to cover their apprehension. "I'll catch you yet!" Miles vowed to the skyline. "You aren't as clever as you think, Technician!"

"Time to implement our civic responsibilities." Marsh stated opening the meeting. "Rose, I want you to organize that Samaritan program we discussed." Rose smiled deeply with enthusiasm. "For the time being we'll have to approve each project. In the future you should have a free hand to implement spur-of-the-moment or emergency projects." "I'll have the first project report ready for review tomorrow." Rose promised, finally feeling she had a chance to contribute her share to the team. She felt very strongly that the Samaritan program was the most important that the Team had discussed. She would be in charge of something significant again. Samaritan was an excellent name for the program too. She would be arranging for wrongs to be righted and innocent citizens to be rescued from their oppressors. Using the powers Ted had unleashed to perform,

what she hoped would be viewed as miracles of fate or karma and acts of generous heroism. It would all be clandestine, and without remuneration. A way of repaying their good fortune to the society that had spawned their opportunity. "Excellent, let's start off with something big." Marsh encouraged, then turned to Ted. "Do you have your report ready on the security program?" Ted opened a folder in front of him and passed a sheet to Marsh. "All the equipment is in place, but, its very existence sort of point's a finger at us. The people that have been watching us, we've identified five, are being very thorough. I am ready to feed them miss-information, once it's been approved." "Good work." Marsh accepted the paper, and read the list of false clues that Ted intended to deliver to the spies. Then he passed the list on, so it could be shared around the table. "I think someone else should be in charge of security though. You have too many responsibilities as it is. Is anyone else interested in taking on the security program?" Marsh scanned the group for a response. "I will do it." Ruke volunteered, only a heartbeat ahead of Tanya. She withdrew once she realized Ruke was interested. Ted reluctantly passed the folder to Ruke. "Let me help once in a while." He said, showing his disappointment. Ruke nodded and Ted turned back to Marsh. "I always liked that cloak and dagger stuff." "Next I would like to discuss Jill Chapman. We should decide whether or not to invite her to join our inner circle." Marsh waited for comments. "I'm not sure Jill is willing to give up the outside world yet." Ann offered. Everyone at the table realized just how relevant that comment was. Even when they did

venture out they had to remain guarded and separate. It was not likely that any of them would ever again mingle freely in society. Jill was obviously interested in becoming more involved with the TeleTech team, but was she ready to give up her freedom. "It is possíbóle that she could be a spy?" Paul added. "Then let's test her. Let's feed her some of this false information." Ruke added holding up the list that had made its way around the table to him. He was jumping enthusiastically into his new role as chief of security. "An excellent suggestion Ruke." Marsh praised. "Go ahead and see to it." Ruke smiled, he knew exactly how he would execute this assignment.

Jill sat patiently waiting for Terra to get out of her meeting. She was alone in the large foyer at the base of the impressive grand staircase that led to the bedrooms upstairs. A large desk guarded the base of the stairs. It was unattended at the moment, but normally one of the team members would be taking their turn as receptionist. The foyer had become TeleTech's lobby. The resplendent room with its leaded glass windows, crystal chandelier, grand staircase, and marble floor insinuated great wealth and decadence, and was quite daunting to almost anyone who would come in there on business. Jill, however, seemed quite at ease. Ted and Ruke sat in the control room scrutinizing the bank of monitors that sat above Ted's equipment. "Hope she doesn't hold a grudge." Ted said as he watched Terra approach Jill on the center monitor. "You do not think she is a spy?" Ruke sounded surprised.

Ted turned to look Ruke in the eye. He had not really thought about it that much, and until this moment he was not sure he had an opinion. "I don't know, but I tend toward the innocent till proven guilty theory." "Well thät is what we are trying to prove, correct, whether or not she is innocent." Ruke's facetious tone almost incited a response from Ted, but at that moment Terra reappeared on another monitor. "Hi Jill, sorry I kept you waiting, but it is very difficult getting one of these away from Ted. I think he would make less fuss over having a tooth pulled." Terra smiled reassuringly. She knew Jill would pass the test. Her ability to sense the truth told her that Jill had told her no lies. She had informed Ruke about her feelings, but he remained skeptical. "What's that?" Jill asked pointing at the small pill that Terra displayed in the center of her open palm. Terra held her hand up a little closer to Jill's face. "This!" Terra emphasized. "Is what TeleTech is all about." She closed her hand on the pill, and dropped it to her side. "Come on I'll tell you all about it." Terra turned and led the somewhat baffled Jill to the Den. Ted and Ruke watched Terra escort Jill to the Den on the monitors. The den had been prepared especially for Jill's test, but now they were embellishing, testing her character as well as her responsiveness to the equipment. They would find out very soon whether or not she was trustworthy. "Sit please." Terra requested, then she set the pill reverently beside a glass of water that had been on the table when they entered. She sat opposite Jill. "You are

interested in joining our group." It was stated as a fact. "You are aware of the caliber of commitment this would entail?" There was a hint of question in this statement, and she waited for a reply. "Well, I don't know exactly, but everyone has hinted that I'd have to give up almost everything else." Jill answered. Then quickly added. "That's okay though, I'm ready for some big changes in my life." "Joining us will subject you to the most thorough change you have ever experienced. I do not want to frighten you off. I think you would make an excellent addition to our team. I am only trying to prepare you for something you could not possibly anticipate. I am not being very comforting, am I?" Terra asked, noticing the apprehension creeping over Jill's face. "No, that's okay, I think I understand. You're just trying to make sure I know what I'm doing." Jill confirmed. "Yes." Terra straightened herself and became very businesslike. "This is your test for entry into TeleTech." She pointed at the pill she had placed on the table. "That pill is what enables us to communicate over such great distances, it contains a drug that reduces our brain’s natural tendency to restrain wave emanations." Jill's eyes opened in momentary disbelief, but she had seen the results herself, and this explanation answered many questions. "It works better for some people than for others." Terra continued. "Do you have any objections to taking the pill?" "Does it . . ." Jill started, but stopped herself. "No, no objections." She eyed the pill greedily, but in the back of her mind she wondered about any temporary or even permanent side effects.

Terra was surprised by Jill's reaction. Maybe it was a good idea to test her loyalty. "Thomas is somewhere outside the city. You are going to try to contact him and find out where he is by what he relates to you. The pill works very quickly and the communication can be very disorienting, so you must lie down and relax after you swallow it." "Is that what the settee is for?" Jill pointed to the sofa against the wall. "Yes. You should have a minute or two before you feel the effects. Whenever you are ready, you may proceed." Jill looked from the pill to Terra and back. "Okay, here goes nothing." She said, but she was hesitant in her movements despite her eagerness. She picked up the pill and looked at it for a second. Then she swallowed the lump in her throat before placing the pill on her tongue and washing it down with the water. Ted looked at the clock on the wall, and shook his head. "Right on time, good job Terra." He muttered though he knew she could not hear him. He reached over to the button that would activate the system, and poised his finger. He waited for the clock to tick off a few more seconds. Ted looked back at the monitor, saw that Jill was lying still, relaxed, and as ready as she could possibly be. Ted inhaled deeply and pushed the button, and slid a lever forward about half way. Terra watched as Jill prepared herself. "This will feel very strange. Try to lie still and adsorb it." Then she whispered softly. "I will be here if you need me." Jill smiled holding her gaze on the concentration point she had picked on the ceiling. "Ya know, I've never done any drugs before. Is this stuff addicting?"

"We don't know yet." Terra answered, still whispering softly. "Just be quiet and wait, the more prepared you are the easier it will be." Jill suddenly snapped to a rigid form, like a soldier on a parade ground. "Ho . . . My God!" Terra moved over and took Jill's hand. "Try to relax, you will get used to it." Jill rolled her head and showed Terra an astonished expression. "I . . . Uh . . . O, okay." She relaxed a little. "Good, that's better. Now, try to contact Thomas." Terra had tensed, and now she too relaxed. "Try not to shout." "You sound so far away." "That is normal. You are doing very well." Thomas cringed when the first wave hit him. “I knew she was going to be loud, but holy . . .” Thomas noticed the young couple not far away staring at him. A moment ago they had been so absorbed in each other that Thomas would have bet nothing could distract them. 'Jill! Tone it down, any louder and you'll cause an avalanche.' He smiled at the couple, and then turned away, hoping they would do the same. 'Sorry.' Jill apologized. 'Still way too loud, relax a little.' He glanced toward the couple. They were gone. That made him feel better. 'I think I could hear you even if you weren't trying.' 'How's this?’ 'That's better, still a little loud, but bearable.' 'You're kidding. I didn't think you'd be able to hear that.'

'Let's get this over with. I want to get back inside where it's warm. I'm standing beside a lake, and it's completely frozen over.' 'You're at Donner, that's my parent's cabin over there.' Thomas involuntarily turned to face the nearby cabin. 'Wow! I think that's enough. You could hurt someone that way, concentrate on Terra now. I'm going inside.' Thomas trudged off in the snow shaking his head and muttering to himself. Jill's control over his movement had been totally unexpected, and a bit unnerving. 'Terra' "Talk to me, don't use telepathy. Work on your control." Terra tightened her grip on Jill's hand when the wave of telepathy hit her. She was almost knocked off her chair. It felt almost as solid as if she’d stepped out in front of a speeding truck. "Oh I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" Jill whirled around and up to support the now unstable Terra. "That was incredible! Are you all right?" Terra wobbled and shook her head. "We need to work on your control. You are stronger than Thomas, but yours is raw power. You lack finesse." She muttered, shaking her head again. "I'll be better next time, I learned a lot. I did pass the test, didn't I?" Jill fluttered around Terra like a sparrow, unable to contain her enthusiasm. "Yes, you passed. When you learn some control, you will be the best broadcaster we have." Terra replied encouragingly, but she was still a little numb. "Does that mean I'm in?"

"You are in the door, whether or not you become a full member depends on you." Terra looked at her watch. "It will be five to ten minutes before the effects of the drug ware off." She rose and walked to the nearest shelves and picked a book. "Read this." Jill accepted the book. "Dragon riders? What has this got to do with telepathy?" "Nothing, read it aloud for the next ten minutes. It will keep you from broadcasting.” Terra answered. “Start on the page with the marker." She added as she sat facing Jill. Jill opened the book to the marker, looked up quickly at Terra, and asked. "Why do I have to start here?" She squinted with curiosity. Terra grinned mischievously. "Because, that is where I left off." Jill smiled, started reading, and they both settled into their chairs. "Well, I hope she's not a spy. We could use her." Ted said turning to Ruke. "We’ll see." Ruke replied still watching the monitor. "I gave Terra some errands to häve Jill run this afternoon, if she's going to päss any information, she should do ét thén."

"Don't let her see you, but don't lose her!" Marsh cautioned Angie. "And don't use your telepathy, she might be able to spot you that way. If you need help, use your phone." Marsh handed her a new phone. "We'll have Ted and Ruke standing by to help. If you do lose her, they can locate her for you again. And . . ." "You are worrying her. She knows what she is supposed to do." Ann interceded, taking Angie by the arm and walking her to the door. "Remember, a red shall." "What red shall?" Marsh demanded and Ruke listened in anxiously.

"I want a red shawl. She will be near shops, perhaps she will see one." Ann answered calmly.

Angie followed Jill cautiously. Jill had systematically attacked each task on the list Marsh had given her. They had been gone only a short while, when Jill was approached by three men. Angie instantly recognized one of them. It was the government man who had come to the Lovelock compound with Marsh. It was Miles!

"Vennie's?" Ted asked Ruke as they emerged from the basement. The tall man's ebony face split in a grin of approval. "All right, änd let's find out if anyone else wants to go." Ted led the way into the kitchen to find Rose, Ann, and Ben finishing the morning's cleaning. "Anybody want to go to Vennie's for lunch?" He asked, startling Ben into dropping a plate as he was putting it away. Ann, once again, was uncannily prepared for the unexpected. She had reached out before Ted had spoken, and managed to catch the plate just before it hit the counter. Ben jerked around to confront Ted, and was promptly shocked again when he realized he had dropped the dish, but had not heard it crash. He jerked around again to find Ann smiling back at him. He stared in amazed disbelief, and then joined the others in a quick laugh at his comic pirouette. "Vennie's sounds great!" Rose answered Ted's inquiry, and then glanced at Ann and Ben.

Ben nodded in agreement, but Ann shook her head. "I am fasting today, but thank you." She politely answered, then proceeded to put the dish away in the cabinet. "Well, I guess we'll see you when we get back." Rose added, somewhat reluctant to leave Ann out, and feeling unexpectedly guilty about going to eat while her friend went without. She knew her feelings were ungrounded, but she still felt uneasy about not including Ann. "Enjoy your lunch." Ann addressed the group, and smiled a comforting smile at Rose. Vennie's was a small deli that specialized in hero sandwiches. Ted and Ruke had discovered it on one of their early morning jogs, and it had soon become a favorite. It was only two blocks from the house, and had intimate seating as well as food to go. "Two pastramis on whole wheat with everything, one chicken salad on white toast, and one minestrone soup." Ted placed the order at the counter, saying it all with only one breath. "And rye crackers with the soup, please." Ben added from behind. The others found a booth while Ted waited. The lunch was quickly assembled, placed on a tray, and passed to Ted. "Thanks Vennie." Ted offered accepting the tray. "Hey, you enjoy your lunch, okay." Vennie gaily called back. He was a stout man of about fifty, who seemed to enjoy eating his food as well as preparing it for others. The little bit of hair he had left was gray, and he had a kindly appearance and jolly attitude. He and his small shop were a landmark in the community, and a thriving business.

TeleTech had made it a policy never to discuss business in public, even in a place that seemed as secluded and private as one of Vennie's booths. Today that turned out to be a good policy. When the group left, one of the two men in the next booth pulled out a small radio and reported. "They didn’t say nuttin’ Boss, just talked about the food and the weather." He listened a moment as the reply sounded through the small plug in his ear. "Okay Boss, We're on it." He put the radio away and turned to his companion. "We gotta follow um." They quickly moved to the door and proceeded to stealthily follow the group.

"So much for trusting her." Marsh said in disappointment. He had been ready to bet on her loyalty. "We'll have to be very careful what we let her see and hear." "I don't know, I'm not sure yet. Jill could still be innocent." Terra insisted. Her truth sense gnawed fiercely at the back of her mind. George stepped in supporting Terra. "Yeah! We don't know what she said. She coulda told him to go ta Hell!" George had been too obvious about his interest in Jill to be considered unbiased, so his support was taken with skepticism by both Ruke and Marsh. "She was very civil to them." Angie rebuked with her typically soft tone. George lifted his hand threateningly at Angie in support of Jill. Angie quickly cowered, but Tanya stepped between them, protecting Angie. "Jill does not care for you. You are a foolish man." This time George cowered. He was not willing to take on so formidable an adversary as Tanya, and the hurt from Tanya's baleful comment showed in his eyes.

"The battles out there, not in here. Being a team means backing your partners first." Marsh stepped up to the trio. "We aren't certain of anything yet. We'll just have to wait to see what the truth is." The three surrendered to Marsh's authority, and backed off. "George, I can appreciate your prospective, but I think you need to apologize to Angie. She merely reported what she saw." "Sorry Angie, I was upset and shouldn’t a snapped at ya." Then he reached out his hand timidly. "Sorry." He repeated, and she eagerly accepted his hand. Marsh turned to Tanya. "I think you should apologize also." Tanya stiffened indignantly, but she relented under Marsh's stern visage. "I should not have said ét. I apologize." She extended her hands to grasp George and Angie's already clasped hands. The three pumped the grasp once then shared a smile of camaraderie. "Good, that's settled. Now let’s get down to business." Marsh inserted. This was the meaning, the force, his life had been missing, and he shared the camaraderie in a leader's isolated way. He felt good, significant and needed. He looked around the room with a fatherly tenderness until he spotted Ruke furrowed in concentration. "Ruke, what's your next step?" Tanya, George, and Angie had forgotten their bickering, and bunched in closer as Ruke explained how he and Ted planned to follow through. "We put a bug on Jill. We know whät they said." Ruke intoned feeling clever and ahead of the game. "Their conversation was pretty short." Ted inserted. "She didn't openly pass any information, but for the moment, I'd say we still need to be cautious with her." He paused a moment scanning the others.

"Our next undertaking will be to locate Miles' base of operations." Ruke continued. "Then we will turn the tables on Mister Miles, änd put him under constant surveillance." "Then," Ted piped in, flashing a smirk at Ruke, and looking like the cat that swallowed the canary. "I think he is going to have a run of really bad luck, wouldn't you say so Ruke." "Väry bad indeed!" Ruke added with a sneering chuckle, and bearing a disturbingly vicious smile. Table of Contents

Redemption Chapter 10

Ted looked up from his desk to see Rose dragging a reluctant Maria into the basement. "But I'm in the middle of doing laundry." Maria pleaded. She was concerned about the clandestine activities in which Rose was getting her involved. Keeping secrets from the public had become a part of their lives, but Rose had been making them keep secrets from each other, and that felt wrong. Rose had offered to take full responsibility, but what she was up to she would not explain. The tense situation with Jill, and Rose's secretive activities were too much for Maria. She needed to know where she stood, and Rose's secrets were pushing her to her limit. She stopped in front of Ted and repeated her refusal. "No, I won't, I can't." "Come on." Rose urged. "This is the last time, I've got to know what room he's in." "Okay, what's up?" Ted asked, suspiciously. He found it difficult to believe that Rose would coerce anyone, especially a member of their own team. "I need her help for a few minutes, and she's afraid the laundry's going to run away." Rose snapped. She was aghast with herself as soon as she heard the words come from her mouth. She was so involved with her own program that she had lost sight of what was going on around her. They were all part of a team, not just tools to be manipulated. She looked back and forth between Ted and Maria, apprehension clouded her face, but her determination pushed her on. "I'm sorry Maria, I got carried away." She

wanted so badly to have everything ready for the evening meeting. She wanted to impress everyone with her wonderful project. It was so perfect, so timely. Without the last two pieces to the puzzle, though, she would not have much to show, only a hunch. Maria just stood there, not sure what she should do. "I really do need this last favor." It nearly broke Ted's heart to see Rose deflate like that. She had been such a bundle of energy lately. "Is it that important?" He inquired, as he wrapped his arm around her, trying to bolster her with support. She said nothing, just stared despondently at him. He felt a tug at his heart when he gazed into her sad eyes. He looked pleadingly at Maria. She disregarded her reluctance, moved more by his plea than Rose's. Their pleading eyes were pounding Maria’s conscience. "Oh, okay, but you owe me." She said submitting to their united appeal. Rose was suddenly re-invigorated. She grabbed Maria's hand and dragged her into the new isolation chamber, the new pit. Ted shook his head. He was amazed at Rose's swift recovery. A flash of suspicion invaded his thoughts, but he took his seat at the controls without comment. "I know what building he's in, I just need to know what room." Rose said, pulling a small map out of her pocket, and pointing to a spot. "Yes, I know where that is." Maria replied, sounding a little disenchanted with the situation, but she complied nonetheless.

"Okay this is the last quadrant." Ted called as he thumbed the intercom. "Yäs, It is always the läst place you look." Ruke said flatly, trying to relax and prepare for another session. Their psychic searches had turned up nothing so far.

"There's a reason for that ya know." Ted's voice crackled in the speaker. "Oh, whät?" Ruke muttered not really paying attention. "Cause when you find what you're lookin’ for, you stop lookin’." Ted's answer stopped Ruke's chain of thought, and grabbed his attention. "Betchya never thought of it that way." Ted continued before Ruke could reply, so he merely shook his head and went back to his concentration. Ted smiled. "Here goes." He pushed the button engaging the amplification circuitry. "Got ém." Ruke cheered a few minutes later. Ted turned off the equipment, and went in to help Ruke. "Follow me." Ruke grinned and rushed up the stairs. Ted followed anxiously, close behind. They climbed to the second floor, and into a sitting room at the end of the hall. Ruke walked to the window and pointed to a glass and steel building that rose above the skyline. "Top floor, fourth window from the left. He's probably watching us now." "Whoa!" Was Ted's only reply, his eyes bulged with surprise and the sense of their adversary’s suddenly strong presence.

Jill closed the huge front door, and went to the closet to hang her coat. She made her way to the kitchen where Paul and Maria were preparing dinner. They did not hear her come in. Consequently she ended up inadvertently eavesdropping on a conversation not meant for her ears. "Did they find him yet?" Maria asked as she sliced the carrots.

"I sink so, I saw zem run upstairs a léttle while ago." Paul replied standing next to her, scrubbing potatoes in the sink. "I'd hate to be in hés shoes when they start playing with hém." "Do you think we might get to help?" Maria wondered in hopeful anticipation. Paul stepped back and studied Maria for a second, thinking that her statement was a little out of character. When she returned his questioning look, he replied with a chuckle. "Funny, I nevair pictured you as sadistéc." Maria reddened and went back to her carrots realizing he was right. That attitude was sadistic, and she tried briefly to defend herself. "But, that Miles is a terrible person." Jill backed out of the kitchen without being noticed. She went up stairs after finding the den vacant. Then she walked up to the sitting room door and listened. "Yeah, I like that." She heard someone say on the other side. "That ought to fix im good." The voice continued. "We should report to Marsh immediately and inform him that we have located Miles. He should be aware of our plans." Another voice added. Jill heard steps drawing near the door, so she took the two steps to the hall closet, and quickly shut herself inside. Ted opened the sitting room door. "You're right, we need to keep him up to date." He affirmed as he stepped out into the hall. "Besides, Jill should be back any time." "Yäs, we must see how her day went." Ruke curled his lip menacingly, and then smiled. Ted grinned back and they tromped down the stairs. A moment later Jill squeezed out of the closet, and peered over the stair rail. Then she crept down, and silently slipped out the front door.

Ann pushed her door fully open, it had been ajar the whole time, and she also had been spying. She emerged with an expression of disbelief, and hurried down the stairs reaching the bottom just as Jill came back in the front door. Jill looked startled, and Ann could not contain her disappointment as she faced Jill with a firmly set jaw. Ted, Ruke, and Marsh walked into the lobby, chopping off their conversation when they saw Ann’s stern look and Jill’s shock. Jill closed the door, took a deep breath, forced a smile, and walked over to Marsh tendering a sack of office supplies she was carrying. "Good." Marsh greeted. "Good, I need this, and this too." He continued as he shuffled through the sack. "Did you remember my index cards?" "Oh, there still in my coat pocket." She said turning to retrieve them from the closet. "Here you go." She handed the packet to him with a smile. "Thank you, thank you." He said putting everything on the lobby desk. "Shall we go see if we can help with dinner? I'm getting hungry." He smiled and led everyone into the kitchen. Jill followed, but Ann was left alone at the stairs. Ann returned to her room and decided to inform Marsh of what she had seen when she could do so privately.

"Come on now, we know she must've told you somethin’." George insisted of Ted. "You and she are like this." George held up his hand with his index and middle fingers wrapped around each other. Maria and Paul stood by intently waiting for Ted’s response, but he only raised his eyebrows. The speculation about Rose's obscure project

was driving them crazy. They were bound and determined to discover its nature, especially after they had been made ignorant participates. When no answer came from Ted, Paul tried this time. "She had me acquire zome foldárs today, surelá you know what that was about?" Paul's concerned look caught Ted's sympathy. He shifted his eye's up in frustration, knowing they would not appreciate his answer. "Since Marsh gave her that program, she hasn't had any time for me. Heck, the longest conversation we've had, was this morning, when she dragged you downstairs." He tried to give Maria an autocratic stare. He could see by her face that his expression had failed to affect her, so he quickly tried again. "Besides, if she had told me, don't you think she would have sworn me to secrecy. Look, she hasn't told me anything, and she hasn't given me a chance to ask. We're all just going to have to wait until tonight, and find out when everybody else does." He tilted his head to emphasize that he had nothing more to say on the subject. They were disappointed with his answer, of course, and it showed. George opened his mouth to continue the interrogation, but Ted's stonewall expression stopped him. They finally turned away in defeat, and Ted busied himself with his equipment.

"Yes, it is true. Remember how she had to get your cards from her coat?" Ann answered Marsh's doubting face. “Yes.” “She had just come in the door. How did her coat get in the closet?” He quickly changed his expression. "I don't doubt you, Ann." Marsh assured her. He shook his disappointment off. "I've known her for years, and I'd have staked my

reputation on her being straight with us. Well, I guess we better find a way to keep her from attending tonight's meeting." The door crashed open startling them. "Dinner's ready." George panted, flushed after his rush from the kitchen. "And Jill's gone. Said she had important family business, and she won't make the meeting tonight. Better hurry everybody's hungry." Then he rushed out as quickly as he had rushed in, never pausing to catch his breath. Ann and Marsh looked at each other dumbfounded. "I'm lost. I would have thought that she would have wanted to attend this meeting, if she were a spy." Marsh aired his thoughts out loud. "Perhaps, I caused her to change her plans?" Ann posed. "Maybe." Marsh threw up his arms in dismissal. "Like I said, I'm lost. Let's go get something to eat before those kids eat without us." They smiled at each other and sauntered downstairs.

The meeting was held in the dining room as soon as the remnants of dinner had been cleared. Marsh called the meeting to order and quickly got the formalities and mundane business out of the way. It was obvious to him that there were only three subjects on anyone's mind, Ruke and Ted's guerrilla activities against Miles, Jill's status, and Rose's first Samaritan project. Rose had used Maria's finder skills and Paul's kinetic abilities repeatedly to prepare for her presentation, but no one could piece together what sort of project she was assembling.

"Now that everything else is out of the way, which of you would like to go first." Marsh knew that he did not need to say their names, he merely looked at Rose, and then Ruke. They were seated opposite each other, near the center of the long table. Rose insisted before anyone else could speak. "You first!" Then she added more casually. "Please." Ruke gave a formal nod of acceptance, and stood to address the table. "We häve prepäred the equipment, änd our strätegies, for our attäck on Mister Miles Cränford." He Nodded to Ted, acknowledging his support and participation. "First, we are still waiting for information on his fämily bäckground. Second, we häve not yet determined if Miss Chäpman is involved with his operation." He looked around at the faces. Everyone seemed to have his or her own opinion of Jill. "I häve decided not to divulge the details of our plän ät this time." Groans of exasperation rose from several individuals. He bowed his head in an expression that showed that he realized their frustration. He looked at Rose accusingly, as if she were responsible for their true frustration. He received a furrowed brow for his unspoken accusation. Then he sat emphasizing the fact that he was finished. Marsh broke in before Rose could start. "Ruke please see me after the meeting. I have additional information pertaining to Jill." Ruke nodded, and Marsh bowed his head to Rose. "Good luck." Ted reached over from beside Rose, and took her hand for a moment, offering her an encouraging smile. Rose closed her eyes, pumped herself up, and stood. The room had been fairly quiet through the meeting, but now the silence was complete. Rose smiled at the absolute attention. "I propose that for the first project of the Samaritan program," Rose paused

momentarily, sweeping her gaze across her company. "Marsha Wortaly of Garvey and Associates receive, anonymously of course, incriminating evidence against Midstates Insurance, and it's board of directors." Without waiting for a reaction she slapped the folder down loudly on the table, then slapped her hand down on top of it. "The evidence in this folder will be enough to put that entire board behind bars for quite a while." Then she slid the file to Marsh. A moment of astonished silence was followed by enthusiastic applause. The enthusiasm was so extravagant that Rose was barely able to keep herself from blushing. The story had been in the papers for several days. A crusading young attorney had taken on a corporate empire. Public opinion had been overwhelmingly supportive of her cause. Public officials and celebrities had also openly backed her crusade. She had taken brilliant steps toward pulling the reportedly evil corporation into court, but had turned up with insufficient evidence to follow through. According to the press the corporation had supplied a service to insurance brokers throughout the state. They had supplied a replacement policy for existing older policies. An improvement, as it was proclaimed. They offered the Moon and stars. But due to a technicality, they delivered only hot air. The public was furious, but no illegalities, as yet, had been found. Midstates had covered its tracks well. Wortaly had been truly frustrated when Midstates had announced its intention to pull out of the state. Although it would take some time to complete their exodus, unless some evidence was turned up soon Midstates would escape with millions in profits from the policies. Wortaly was sure they were ill gotten gains. Gains gathered from the poor and disadvantaged. People who could not afford to lose what little they

had. Despite public support Midstates army of attorneys had battled Ms. Wortaly to a stand still. Rose decided to quickly continue her show and end the embarrassment the applause was causing her. "There's more." The room fell silent again. Rose was about to burst. She had held her secrets from her comrades for too long, but she did a magnificent job of holding back. She watched their anticipation grow, as they virtually salivated for what she would say next. What could possibly be tagged onto her announcement that would have any significance, or be of nearly as much importance? Finally she continued. "This evidence also implicates a government committee, containing." She paused a moment. "A senator." She paused again. "A congressman." Another pause, "and a group of federal agents," She concluded. The rumble of murmurs grew in the group, but Rose raised her voice rather than wait. "Senator Peachmyer and Agent Miles Cranford," she nearly shouted, "are named in the list." With that she sat, confident in the fact that she had succeeded in wowing her associates, her friends. She had met Marsh's request to 'start off with something big'. She had bagged two birds with one stone, and given Ruke the ultimate finale for his attack on Miles. She had started the Samaritan program off with a giant leap toward what she saw as its destiny. Rose's life had been filled with awards and stunning accomplishments. Moments of glory and honor, but this moment out weighed them all. Hearing her friends salute her so fervently, and knowing in her heart what this would mean to all those people who had trusted Midstates, brought tears of joy to her eyes. Ruke stood and bowed acknowledging her success.

Marsh stood and raised his voice to be heard over the noise. "Rose, you have just written a page in history." The noise died as Marsh continued. "I regret that the public will not know the role you have played, but we," he held out his arms to include everyone, "applaud your efforts, your triumph! Thank you." Then he started clapping again, initiating a standing ovation. "Here, here!" "Bravo!" "All right!" Ted reached over and squeezed her hand. Then he whispered in her ear. "Worth your weight in gold!" She squeezed back fiercely, savoring the moment as congratulations poured from every corner. ‘I have made my place!’ She no longer felt the apprehension she had felt the night she had gone for that dreadful walk in the garden.

"I will see him!" Jill's fierce expression intimidated the secretary, but she apparently would rather deal with Jill than her boss. Jill watched her fold her arms in defiance. Jill muttered a curse, then charged around the desk and marched toward the inner office door. The secretary was too fast though. She jumped in front of the door, barring her way. She crossed her arms again and spoke in a stern and husky manner. "Come back tomorrow. It's after office hours." Jill stepped back, not because of what the secretary had said, but because of what she had thought. Jill would never have recognized projected thoughts before, but her

training at TeleTech allowed her to interpret them, and gave her another option. Jill smiled mischievously. The young woman narrowed her eyes at the unexpected smile, and braced herself for a physical attack. It never came. Jill squinted her eyes in concentration, watching the girl’s face. First she paled, then her mouth opened with shock. Jill drew herself up and continued projecting at the girl. She was a little surprised it was working so well. The girls crossed arms fell limply at her side, and she stepped aside, her eye's never leaving Jill's. Jill bowed her head slightly in acceptance, opened the door, and stepped into the office leaving the secretary devastated. Miles looked up from his desk questioningly, and then smiled. "Cousin, you look distraught, can I be of some assistance." Jill slammed the door, and marched up putting her palms on the desk and leaned forward, trying to look foreboding. Miles' insidious grin upset her. She had hopped to shock him, at least a little. Then she noticed his gaze was not at her eyes, but a little lower. She tucked her chin and looked at herself. Her blouse was hanging down displaying her cleavage. She looked back at him, infuriated with his demeaning frivolity. "You pig!" She stood, then found a chair and flopped into it. He shrugged off her agitation. "Nature of the beast." He offered in meaningless explanation, not caring whether she accepted it or not.

This was not going as she had planned. A thought brightened her. Perhaps she could use the same trick she had used on the secretary. After a moment of concentration she slumped farther into the chair, disappointed with the absence of any reaction in him. "You haven't come with information, have you?" He asked, hoping to gain an explanation of her presence. She faced him trying to quell her emotions. "We grew up together. You know I don't take my loyalties lightly." She opened, and he lifted his eyebrows in interest. "My involvement with TeleTech is something I won't let you abuse. These people have been good to me, offered me an interesting future." She slumped into memories of recent disappointments and added more softly, "Just when I needed one." She perked and continued more forcefully. "They are good people, with good intentions." She stared blankly down at her hands. Then she looked him in the eye with an intensity that set him back. "If you take them on, you won't win." Her words were stated with conviction, and she was pleased with their impact. Miles looked genuinely concerned. She quickly continued, hoping to maintain that edge. "You're wrong about them. They're not doing anything illegal." Miles studied her face, searching for clues, desiring secrets to use against his nemesis. His concern seemed to settle into tranquility, causing Jill to fidget. She knew her cousin too well to be comfortable with his crocodile smile. "My dear Jill, I have too much invested in this pursuit to abandon it." His words were sweet and gentle, but an evil flame burned in his eyes. He knew she had not told them about him, and he still held the advantage. "If they are so innocent, why do they hide?" He paused a moment, watching her closely. “I will have their secrets, one way or another.”

Jill realized her mistake too late. He would not let her go back to warn Marsh. ‘What a colossal blunder.’ She thought. "But, I . . ." Her loss for words only seemed to please Miles even more. She decided the only chance she had to get away was to move fast. She jumped out of her chair and dashed for the door. Just before she could reach it the door swung open. She decided to plow right over that twit of a secretary, and get out of the building as fast as possible. To Jill's distress the open door revealed two very large men. Jill bounced off one, before she could stop herself. His large hands locked around her upper arms, effectively immobilizing her. She struggled, but quickly gave up with a whimpering sigh. "Jill." She heard from behind, then the huge man turned her around like a puppet to face Miles, "That was foolish." He said expressing mock concern. "Please be cooperative. I don't want to see you hurt, but I cannot let you warn them." She wrenched herself around again trying to break free, but the big man squeezed down on her arms painfully. She winced at the fierce grip, and with another whimper she submitted to his unyielding restraint. "Martin, escort my dear cousin to the guest suite." Miles politely requested. "And lock her in!" He ordered in a gruff, coarse, commanding voice. He turned his attention to his paperwork, ignoring them. Martin picked Jill up and started to turn, holding her so her feet dangled above the floor. "Oh, and Martin." The big man stopped and turned back in response to Miles' resumed politeness. "Try not to hurt her, too much." Miles grinned wolfishly at the guard, and when the big man returned his grin he chuckled. Martin chuckled back, then both men started to laugh. It was a cascading evil sounding chorus.

Jill's Eyes widened in horror at the thought of the pain these sadistic men could cause. "Damn you Miles!" She screamed over their laughter. ‘I should never have come here. Now I've ruined everything.’ The laughter slowly subsided, and she was dragged roughly down the hall.

"I guess Jill wasn't a spy after all." Ted commented to Ruke, after monitoring the conversation in Miles' office. He looked back at the equipment they had installed for surveillance. "Glad we got this stuff in. Now, I guess we need to rescue her." "No, I think we should leave her there, for now." Ruke insisted. "We gäined a great deal from thät conversation. Perhaps he will tell her more." "We can't leave her with those maniacs!" Ted blurted. "I think Ruke is right." Marsh stated from behind the two men. Ted turned in surprise at the statement. "As glad as I am to find out that she is not a spy, she could get Miles to say more. Besides we're not ready to show our hand yet." Ruke nodded his agreement with Marsh's assessment. "I don't think she's in any real danger." Ted's face showed reluctant resignation. "Ruke, I want you to start your harassment of that man immediately. If we can keep him busy he won't have time to harm her." Ruke lit up with a savage smile, then turned to Ted. "Are you ready?" Ted perked up, and managed a conspiratorial grin. "Let's rock his boat!" They turned to Marsh offering a pair of diabolically unnerving grins. Marsh smiled thinly, shaking his head. He gave them both a clap on the back. "Give um hell!" He turned to leave, but turned back. “Do keep an eye on Jill. I’d hate not

to be there if she really does need our help.” He turned again leaving them to work their devilish magic. Table of Contents

Devastation Chapter 11

"I've got it! She did it! It worked!" Angie yelled at the top of her lungs as she slammed the door behind her, and rushed to find someone to share the news with. She stopped in the lobby in a flustered sweat not sure what direction to go. Then she stood waving a newspaper and yelling with all her might. "It worked, it worked." Her friends appeared all around her, one by one, wondering what all the yelling was about, especially from the normally quiet Angie. Finally Marsh walked up, and she pushed the newspaper at him with an enthusiastic smile. Marsh opened the paper and everyone crowded around him with curiosity. His smile grew to a face splitting grin as he read the front page. Rose had just reached the bottom of the steps, and was filled with as much curiosity as anyone else. "What?" She asked as he approached her with the newspaper holding it out for her. Her hands flew to her face in joyful surprise. Marsh pulled the paper back, cleared his throat, and proceeded to read the article

WORTALY vs. MIDSTATES, K.O. IN FINAL ROUND

Marsha Wortlay delivered evidence to the District Attorney's office this morning, which brought immediate action. Within minutes squad cars were dispatched, and almost thirty individuals were arrested in connection with the insurance fraud case

involving Midstates Insurance. The District Attorneys office would only confirm that incriminating evidence had been registered, and that there would definitely be a trial.

Marsh tried to continue reading the story, but Rose could not contain herself. "We did it!" Rose interrupted, and her eyes flooded with tears. "Thanks to you!" Ted spoke up from Rose's right. "Thanks to you, that group of criminals won't get away with it." Everyone crowded in to congratulate Rose as Ted continued. "If it weren't for your insights, none of this could have happened." He swung his arm around indicating all of them, and their surroundings. "The original program was your idea, your dream. You made that possible, and you made it possible for all of us to be here, to be part of something really meaningful, something I will remember as long as I live." He stepped directly in front of her. "And I want to be the first to congratulate and thank you." Ted wrapped his hands around her waist and lifted her off the ground. Holding her above him, he looked up into her eyes, as she gazed with fulfillment down into his. In his most sincere voice he said it again. "Thank you!" Then he let her slide down to his level and gave her, a meaningful, but brief kiss. When it ended, they stared briefly into each other’s eyes. If they had been alone, those looks would have led to something, but they were promptly torn apart by the crush of the others. Everyone wanted to express his or her gratitude and congratulations.

"What?" Jill sat up abruptly, startled from her nap. She was not sure if it was a quickly forgotten nightmare, or someone was in her room. Comfortable and posh though

her quarters might be, it was still a prison, and she could not rest easily here. Her dreams had been troubled, so troubled that she had hardly slept. After a quick survey of the room produced nothing, she wrote off the awakening to nightmares. She was just about to try sleeping again when she was startled by the unmistakable presence of Thomas in her mind. “ ’Thomas!’ ” A tear formed in her eye as she realized she had not been forgotten. 'Not out loud! They might be listening.' Jill heard Thomas clearly, and the wonderful companion consciousness in her brain felt almost as good as being held. 'We're going to pull you out of there, but you've got be quiet! Now, quietly go to the window and open it. We must not alert them. Okay?' 'Okay.' She answered, careful not even to move her lips. She rolled out of the bed and crept to the window as stealthily as she could manage. She slowly twisted the center latch, without making a noise. "She is ät the window." Ruke reported into the intercom, without lowering his binoculars. From the sitting room he could easily see every detail. Jill carefully raised the bottom bolt of the window, but it squealed its reluctance despite her care. "Hell!" She whispered, and turned to the door. She heard the chair sliding in the hall. Her guard had heard the squeaky bolt too. 'Back in bed, quickly?' She heard Thomas advise. 'I’m moving as fast as I can!' She insisted. She heard the guard unlocking the door, and closed her eyes hoping the guard would believe she was still asleep and go away. "Something is wrong, she rän out of view." Ruke informed the others. "Hell! Someone Häs opened her door."

The guard moved his eyes across the room with practiced care, stopping on Jill's sleeping body in the bed. He grunted a sour disapproval. Then he carefully scanned the room one more time before closing the door. Jill let the long held breath slowly escape, while her heart raced. She rolled over, as if still asleep, and cracked an eye. She breathed more easily when she was sure he had gone. She rolled on her back and stared at the ceiling. 'I feel like I just lost ten years off my life.' She broadcast to Thomas. 'Yeah, that was a close one. Ruke is watching your room with binoculars. He saw the whole thing. Ted suggests you give the guard a few minutes to settle before you move.' Jill lay and listened to her heart pound. It was taking its time slowing down. 'Hope I didn't blast you with that broadcast.' Jill continued a moment later. 'Naw, I was ready for ya this time. We had a damper system set up. Ted says the gauge nearly pegged though. Lucky for me I didn't hear it at that level.' Jill felt a moment of shame. 'Sorry, but I haven't been doing this very long.' They waited a moment longer in silence. 'I haven't heard anything for a while, should I try again.' "Hold up, Miles is ät his window agáin." Ruke cautioned. He swung his binoculars around checking all the windows around Jill's. "Let me know when. I'll have her get ready." Ted's voice whistled over the intercom. A few minutes later Thomas bloomed in her mind again. 'Ted says to get ready, go over and open the window. Let's hope the hinges do better than the latch.'

She winced at the thought of something else going wrong. 'Thomas, just how were you going to rescue me from a window this high up?' She halted mid stride, when the question finally struck her. 'I hope you have a really good happy thought, cause we're goin’ to make ya fly.' Thomas replied lightheartedly. Jill took one step then halted again. What? She sensed his chuckle come through. 'Relax, we can do the same thing to kinetics that we do to telepathy. I guarantee you'll be perfectly safe. If you close your eyes it probably won't bother you at all.' She hesitantly walked the rest of the way to the window, not comforted much by Thomas's attempts to ease her apprehension. 'I'm not too sure of this.' She communicated at finally reaching the window. 'Go ahead and open the window. Good, now sit on the sill with your legs outside.' She did as she was told, then realized where she was. She looked across at the old mansion that was TeleTech's home. It was almost a mile away and a little below her level, but between them was a canyon, and her vertigo suddenly flared like an active volcano. "I'm not too sure about this." She announced out loud repeating her thoughts. She pulled her legs back in the window. "She is in position, so is he, do it now!" Ruke yelled at the intercom, leaning forward, with the glasses glued to his eyes. "Hell, she's going bäck in, änd the guard just opened the door again. Now! Now!" 'Not now! Oh shit! Jill hang on!' Jill had one foot back on the sill when she noticed the door open. 'The guard! Oh no!' "Get me out of here!"

The guard saw her and rushed forward. In a panic she pushed away from him, and tumbled out the window. The guard slammed into the windowsill jamming his arm out as hard as he could, but he was a fraction of a second too late, his fingers closing on empty air. He watched her fall for only a second, and then turned away. He covered his face as her scream fell away. "She is falling!" Ruke continued yelling at the intercom. Then he muttered to himself. "Do something!" Jill's scream died suddenly and the guard flinched, still unwilling to look. Ruke lowered his glasses slowly, and let his shoulders slump. Still staring at the distant building, his face became frail with shock. Then he saw a speck whizzing across the canyon. He snapped the glasses back to his eyes, and a huge grin spread across his face. "Nice cätch!" 'Relax, Stop panicking, we've got ya.' Thomas tried to comfort Jill. “'I think I just lost another ten years. You can put me down here. I think I'm going to be sick.'” Jill muttered aloud, and broadcast feebly when it sunk into her brain that she was not going to die. A moment later she found herself standing in one of the gardens behind the mansion, surrounded by comforting, helpful, friends. Her nausea quickly vanished, but tears of relief and joy overwhelmed her. Jill sat before a warming fire in the mansion a few minutes later, but even with a blanket wrapped around her she still shivered from overwhelming emotions. Her cousin and longtime friend had completely betrayed and threatened her. She had fallen from a tenth story window and been grasped in the nick of time by Tanya’s powerful, but caring, mental grasp, and then whisked through the air to be gently landed amongst her new

friends. Ann handed her another cup of hot broth, but Jill only stared into it with dazed eyes. She was still suffering from shock. "He's mad." She uttered at the cup. "He's obsessed." She added a moment later, and turned toward Ted. "Obsessed with you." Her eyes bored into Ted's. "Obsessed with catching you, stopping you, hurting you!" Jill started softly sobbing, and turned back to the fire. Ted looked at the others, but saw only surprise and curiosity. He swallowed, moved closer, and supportively wrapped an arm around her. "It's okay, you're safe now." He was suddenly plagued by the fear of how much worse it might get before it got better. A curtain of guilt settled over him. Had he done it again? Had his prank on Miles backfired like the one on Rose had? She looked into his eyes, still sobbing, and her eyes filled with wonder and tears. "What did you do to him?" She had not really expected an answer, and did not wait for one. "We grew up together, and he was ready to hurt me, because of you." There was no malice or disdain in her voice, but she leaned away from Ted's supporting arm. "He was going to hurt me." She repeated as her voice faded to a whisper, and her focus drifted back to the cup in her hands. Ted stepped back, unsure how to react. Jill did not seem to blame him, but she did not want to be around him either, that was obvious. He fumbled with his hands self consciously, and watched Terra move in to comfort Jill. A moment later he felt Rose at his side offering her support. Ted moved away from Jill. "You suppose he knows everything?" He whispered to Marsh. Rose clung to his side, and moved with him. He smiled his appreciation to her,

and curled his arm around hers grasping her hand. He was glad for her closeness and support in the face of his guilt and uncertainty. Marsh stepped out of hearing range with Ted and Rose. "More likely he blamed his aggravation on someone he was already upset with. Remember the way he left the compound the day you gave that first demonstration? Remember how upset he was with you?" Marsh's eyes faded into oblivion as the memory flooded back. Ted also recalled that day. It felt like a lifetime ago. "Yeah, he was sorta pissed." Ted chuckled, but Rose flashed a scornful look at him. This was serious, no laughing matter. He sobered immediately realizing that it was his frivolous attitude that had caused these and other problems, and his guilt grew. "We better keep an eye on him until the authorities can take him into custody." Marsh interrupted, suddenly solemn. Ted nodded his agreement. "Ruke, Tanya, Thomas, we have work to do." He marched off to finish what he had started. TeleTech could not function properly with a threat like Miles in his vengeful state hanging over them.

"Well, where the hell is he?" Ted's frustrated question echoed amid the faint sound of the equipment's cooling fans. Rose patted his back supportively, but no one answered his question. Thomas and Tanya sat near craned toward the monitors and gauges. Ruke was in the Pit, in deep concentration. Everyone was exceedingly intent, much too intent to notice a stealthy intruder's approach. "You wouldn't be looking for me, would you?" The voice was deep and haggard, and it startled everyone.

They turned convulsively, their reactions were the same, jaws dropped, eyes grew, and lumps formed in their throats. They were filled with fear and surprise, and they instinctively huddled together. Miles stood at the bottom of the steps. He looked tired and dirty, and his clothes were torn and soiled. Bruises and cuts showed through his tattered clothing. He was soaked with sweat, and his eyes were glazed. He looked as if he had just crawled out of a collapsed building. The most prominent feature, however, was the large gun he held pointed in their direction. "Our game of wits has turned physical, hasn't it?" He eyed Ted, and waved the gun to emphasize his comment. All eyes fixated on the muzzle. "Over there." He motioned with the pistol, encouraging them to move. They huddled together and moved as a group. When they reached the corner, Miles pulled another weapon from behind his back. This one was even more menacing than the first. He pointed the small machine gun at Ted's head. "Call the other one out here." He flipped his eyes toward the Pit, and then quickly back again. Ted swallowed hesitantly, and Miles jabbed the machine gun at him. "Now!" He demanded. "Ruke, ah . . ." Ted gulped, and then tried again. "Ruke." Ted called weakly. Miles jabbed again, causing Ted to jerk. Ted quickly added, "Ruke, come here." They could hear Ruke rise and walk to the door. His reaction upon seeing Miles with two weapons pointed into the room was similar to the others. Miles lowered the machine gun and motioned with the pistol for Ruke to join the others. Ruke contemplated the situation a moment, then stiffened, crouched, and prepared to leap. The pistol moved slightly to align with Ruke's brow. "Don't even think about it!" Ruke froze, and then straightened. Miles lowered the huge pistol, and pointed the machine gun directly between Ted's eyes. The seconds passed like hours as Miles

allowed his grin to deepen forebodingly. He glanced at his watch, and his grin broadened even more. In a day that had obviously gone very bad for him he was about to get some satisfaction, and that is what his grin portrayed. Everyone knew he blamed Ted for his fall from grace, and they knew he was going to shoot Ted. A tremendous explosion rocked the building, then another. Dust sifted down from above, but nobody moved. They could hear screams and running above. Miles' grin turned to a scowl, and he pushed the machine gun forward menacingly. Ted's mouth went dry and he stopped breathing. Rose closed her eyes and dropped her head, whimpering as she clung to Ted. Miles swung the automatic weapon away from Ted and fired a burst of bullets at the equipment. Sparks flew, lights flashed, several monitors exploded, and smoke whirled upward. Ted had only a brief moment of relief as he realized that none of the bullets had struck him, then the muzzle of the pistol returned its aim to his forehead. Miles was standing in an aggressive stance with the Uzi pointed at the computers, and the Pistol pointed at Ted. Ruke made his move, dropping and rolling away from the group, in the opposite direction of the computer equipment. He rose to one knee and prepared to jump. Miles mechanically rotated at the hip, so that the Uzi was now aimed at the group, and the pistol bore down on Ruke. He pulled the trigger just as Ruke jumped. Miles jerked with the recoil from the nasty looking gun, and smoke slowly oozed out of the barrel. The force of the bullet not only stopped Ruke's lunge, but also drove him into the wall behind. He stood pinned against the wall, his eyes dazed, then his pupils rolled up, out of sight, and he slumped lifelessly to the floor.

Rose gasped and fell to her knees. Ted stooped to hug and reassure her, but he noticed the gun follow his movement, and realized it was always pointed at him not the group. He stood again, tall and straight. He swallowed and moved over in front of his equipment, the muzzle followed. "Leave them alone, It's me you want, isn't it?" Ted announced, in a voice much steadier than he felt. Rose stretched out a hand, and started to crawl toward Ted. Miles dropped his aim to cover her, and she stopped, still whimpering. Thomas and Tanya pulled her back, and they all clung to each other. Miles carefully slid the pistol into his belt, and pulled a box out of his pocket. He held it out displaying it to the others. "C4, with a one minute delay. C4 makes a hell of an explosion." He jerked his head, indicating the explosions they had just heard. He looked down at the bomb, admiringly. "Not very big, but it will surely make a mess of this room." He looked at Ted again. "Want me to let them go, he waved the machine gun at the others." Ted nodded, still bravely standing tall. "Beg!" He moved the weapon up and down, letting Ted know that he wanted him on his knees. Ted glanced at the others, and then knelt. "Let them go, please." He put everything he had into trying to satisfy Miles' sick demands. Two strong arms fastened securely around Miles pinning the Uzi to his side. He struggled wildly, but he could not break free. The Uzi fired continuously into the floor, until it was empty. Miles grunted and growled, but he was held secure. Ruke smiled grimly over Miles' shoulder. There was blood soaking down from his shoulder, and he was obviously in great pain. "Get everybody, out of here, quick!" Then he looked down at the bomb, letting Ted know that they had to get out before it could go off.

"Out, get out now!" Ted shouted at the others. Rose reached and moved toward Ted, but Tanya and Thomas grabbed her and dragged her up the stairs. Ted ran over and grabbed the pistol out of Miles' belt. Then he went for the bomb, but just as he grabbed it Miles triggered it. "Shit, he armed it. Get out of here!" Ted yelled at Ruke, then stepped over and threw the bomb into the Pit. Ruke had spent his last ounce of reserve energy restraining Miles, and slumped to the floor again. Miles was without a weapon, but free. He ran to the stairs and bolted quickly out of sight. Ted dropped the pistol, and pulled the heavy door to the pit shut, then jumped to Ruke. He was unconscious again. Ted tried to lift him, but he was too big, too heavy. He looked around for something to shield them from the blast. He seized Ruke's wrists and dragged him under the stairs. He pulled the Jamaican's long legs in just before the explosion.

Heavy mist concealed Rose's feet as she cautiously searched through a thick gray fog. Her face appeared to be a mask of worry. Occasionally she would peek behind a fuzzy shrub or vague tree that materialized before her. There were no colors, no details, only emotions. A piece of landscape would appear every once and a while, to her left or right. She would examine it, and then move on to the next. Ted noticed she was moving her lips, calling perhaps, but he could hear nothing. She was drawing close, why couldn't he hear her. He tried calling to her, but no sound came from him either. How strange, he thought. He tried to wave to her but his hands were pinned to his side. He tried to walk over to her but his legs would not move. He looked down to see himself buried vertically in the ground up to his chest. He suddenly felt like a live tombstone. He tried to struggle but the earth held him firmly. He felt a deep concern, not for himself but for Rose. He

knew she needed his help. He looked up to see her heading straight for him but she still could not see him. He feared she might stumble over him, and he could not get out of her way. She stopped abruptly, her toes inches from his chest and still she did not appear to see him. She turned around, and around, but for her, he was not there. He tried to yell, he screamed with all the strength he could muster, but seemingly to no avail. Then he noticed her look around. Had she heard him? She looked down, and love and joy filled her eyes. She was happy. Then her legs dissolved into the fog. The shimmering mistiness spread up her body, but she showed no distress. Her smile only grew warmer. She kept dissolving until all that was left was her smile. Then, it too winked out. Everything was dissolving, the trees, the bushes, even the ground around him. All that was left was the thickening gray fog. It was a dense, dry, fog, a fog of uncertainty.

Marsh held Rose in his arms, and comforted her as best he could. Her uncontrollable crying seemed unending. Each time she tried to breath her body trembled. Marsh felt helpless, as he watched another wall of the old mansion collapse onto the pile. Most of the exterior walls still stood, but practically everything inside had collapsed. He was amazed that everyone had escaped. He looked down at Rose as her painful sobbing continued. Could Ted and Ruke still be alive under all that rubble? The first bomb had gone off in the west wing of the house, while everyone who wasn't upstairs was in the kitchen preparing a celebration feast. They had been so excited by Jill's miraculous rescue that spirits could not have been higher. Now they could not be lower. They had rushed out of the house, not sure if it was an earthquake, an airplane crash, or something worse. The second bomb had gone off a minute later in the dining room. The house had still

been structurally intact at that point. Some of them had gone around to the front to try to get in and look for the people still in the basement. After clearing debris, they had made their way to the basement door. They had just opened it when Thomas and Tanya appeared dragging Rose. "There's a bomb down there. We gotta get out." Thomas had shouted, urging them to clear the way. They had just made it clear of the house when Rose broke free of their grips, and ran back. Marsh had caught her at the front steps. She looked up pleadingly into his eyes, struggling to break free. "We've got to help them!" Miles brushed passed them at a full run. Rose turned back to the house trying again to break free. Marsh dragged her to him, and wrapped himself around her, turning his back to the house and walking away. He had only taken two steps when the third explosion had rocked the house. At first only a rush of dust and debris was blown out doors and windows. Then interior walls started falling, like dominos, and the upstairs floor had collapsed a little at a time but continuously as the supporting walls fell away. They all stood there watching. There was nothing else they could do. Every time someone tried to make a move to go in, something else would crash down. Eventually even the roof had fallen in. Now they stood in the fog and cold feeling nothing but despair. Marsh heard sirens drawing close. "People." He raised one arm to get their attention, still holding Rose with the other. "People, There will be professionals here in a moment, professionals with the proper tools for the job. Let's stay out of their way and try to be a help, not a hindrance. If they need our help, they will ask for it. The most important caution I can give you is watch what you say." He looked back at the house. Fortunately the fires were

small. The house could have been a blazing inferno, but that was only a small consolation. “Remember we don’t know what happened, just that there were explosions.” An hour later Marsh sat on a bench with a blanket wrapped around him and Rose. She had cried herself to sleep, still clutched to his chest. He took another sip of coffee from the paper cup the fireman had offered earlier. It was not hot but it kept him awake while he watched them removing the wreckage, piece by piece. It had been decided that the use of heavy equipment was not safe, at least the equipment that was readily available. Unfortunately the equipment normally used to do the job safely was on another emergency. Evidently there had been another bombing earlier that evening, across the canyon. Marsh noticed small fires were still visible there. Miles had been a busy man tonight. George walked up wearing a heavy yellow coat. The fire chief had loaned it to him, and designated him an assistant coordinator. He had been closely involved with their operation. Directing them to the area where the door to the basement had been, and identifying objects as they were removed. Very little was salvageable, but occasionally something of some value would be turned up intact. Those items were placed together in an area, roped off in the back yard. "She still asleep?" George asked softly, nodding his head at Rose's huddled form. "Yes, thank God. How is it going?" Marsh responded, just as softly. "They're getting pretty close. They should have someone down in the basement in a few minutes." George advised. "Still haven't heard anything?"

"No, they stop every few minutes and listen, but nothin’ so far." George looked over at the shambles that was left of the house, and then looked back with disappointment in his eyes. "Just wanted to warn ya, in case she woke up or somethin’." He turned and trudged back to the crew working its way into the basement. Marsh watched intently his interest renewed. He craned his head to one side, looking down, trying to get a look at Rose. All he could see was the disarray of her damp red hair. He turned back to the excavation with a sigh. He wanted badly to go and inspect the situation personally, but he dared not wake Rose, so he sat impatiently waiting.

"The stairs've collapsed." The fireman swung the flashlight around looking for the two missing men. "I need a rope and harness." Another fireman dashed off immediately. He kept searching with the flashlight as he leaned precariously into the opening. "Here's the gear lieutenant." The young fireman who had dashed off chimed, panting from the quick sprint. The lieutenant was the very image of a hero, tall, lean, and muscular, with intensity and confidence that reassured everyone. George felt the man knew what he was doing, and he apparently had nothing on his mind but rescuing Ted and Ruke. It comforted George that the lieutenant had not given up hope. "Lower me in. Rick, you be ready to follow, in case I need you." The lieutenant ordered as he clipped the rope to his harness. The young man who had retrieved the rope beamed at the opportunity to directly assist his hero, and do something heroic himself. "Yes Sir." He answered loudly. The lieutenant took note of Rick's enthusiasm. "Ready?"

"Yes. Al, Ron, get on the rope too. I want to go down slowly. I don't want to put any weight on the staircase, they might be under it." The lieutenant added, as he eased over the edge of the opening. Marsh leaned forward, then straightened and tried to raise his head as high as possible, without waking Rose. He had seen the rope being retrieved, but could only see their heads above the surrounding rubble. He glanced at Rose's head again, frustrated with his inability to get a better look. Finally he relaxed, and resigned himself to wait. "Slowly, a little more, a little more." The lieutenant advised as they lowered him into the basement. "Stop, hold me there." He surveyed the situation. He was suspended just above the crumpled staircase, and a couple of feet from the wall. "I'm going to swing clear of the stairs. When I say now, let me go so I miss the stairs." He was concerned about landing wrong in the loose debris that was strewn all over the floor, but it seemed the only way. He reached out with his foot and kicked the wall, swinging himself almost clear of the stairs. The rope ground against the splintered wood, which had once been the door's threshold, as it swung with the lieutenants' weight like a pendulum. He raised both feet as he swung back, and planted them firmly on the wall giving a mighty shove. "Let go." He shouted. He managed to get his feet under himself before he hit, but he had no way in the dark to see where his feet were hitting. He stumbled into the debris, bruising both palms. Even so he was satisfied with the landing. He straightened himself, and pulled his flashlight out of a large pocket. He surveyed the room from his new vantage, and decided that the only safe place might have been under the massive staircase. It had not fallen completely down, but was supported by a large metal chest. The lieutenant dropped to his knees and pointed the light under the stairs. The two bodies were sprawled

on the floor under the stairs. They seemed well protected from falling wreckage, but in the dim light and floating dust and smoke he could not tell how they had fared the explosion. He reached in and found Ruke's wrist, and a smile crept across his face. It took him a moment to find Ted's wrist. "Did, you, find, them?" George yelled down into the opening, carefully pronouncing each word. "Yes!" The lieutenant answered. "They're both alive!" He yelled back triumphantly. Table of Contents

Recovery Chapter 12

Marsh looked from Ted, lying safe and clean in his hospital bed, to Rose, still rumpled and grimy, her hair matted and stringy. She definitely looked worse, despite the fact that she had not been physically injured. She had curled up in a chair next to Ted, her hand resting on his. She slept fitfully, moaning and shifting, in the stiff plastic chair. She had refused to leave, even after the doctor had announced that Ted would be all right. He had awakened only once, and she had missed it. She had to talk to him before she could leave. Marsh looked over to Ruke in the next bed. He also would be all right, the bullet had chipped his clavicle, but there had been no major damage. Both men had suffered some smoke inhalation, but altogether they had been extremely lucky. Ted stirred, opened his eyes, and coughed. He tried to raise his hand to his mouth for the second cough, but he could barely lift it. He looked around still dazed from sleep, but through his blurred perception he recognized Marsh. In a feeble voice he asked, "Ruke?" Then coughed painfully twice. "He will be all right." Marsh answered, turning his head toward the other bed. Ted rolled his head over, with a groaning effort. He could see the white bed, and he could tell the man in it had dark skin, but that was the extent of his impaired perceptions. If Marsh had said it was Ruke, It must be. He groaned and coughed again and turned his head back toward Marsh. Rose's smiling face was there waiting for him. She leaned down and gave him a gentle kiss. "How do you feel?"

He blinked his eyes, his vision was clearing and when he saw Rose he assumed a quizzical look. "I'm okay." He coughed again. "Were you caught in the explosion?" He asked Rose, coughing several more times. Marsh smiled. She did look a mess. Then he looked over at Ruke, who slept soundly. That was probably what Ted needed too. "Rose wouldn't leave your side. She hasn't taken any time to clean up, that's why she looks the way she does." Rose leaned back and inspected herself, looking embarrassed. The nurse burst through the door before Rose could respond. "Out, out, I've let you stay too long as it is!" Ted erupted at that moment with a string of painful sounding coughs. "See there, what he needs is sleep, now out with you!" She rushed Marsh out first. "See you later." He said as he was propelled out the door. "Thank God you're alive!" Rose offered as she leaned over to kiss him goodbye. "Yeah, otherwise there wouldn't be anyone to kick you in the . . ." He coughed again several times, then added, "temper." She smiled remembering their deal, but she was denied a reply, as the nurse quickly ushered her out of the room as well.

Rose was a vision, Ted had never seen her more beautiful. It was more than just cleaning up and getting some rest. She had gone all out, her hair was gorgeous and her outfit was stunning, and that big smile brought out a special glow. Ruke and Ted were awake and propped up. Ruke tried a wolf whistle to show he noticed. Unfortunately a fit of coughing interrupted the lascivious compliment. She

feigned disapproving shock by placing her fists on her hips, and then showed a little concern for his coughing. "You should have seen her yesterday." Ted mocked remembering the mess she had been. "Just for that." She flashed a wicked grin at Ted, and then spoke to Ruke. "You get first choice." She pulled a large bag from behind her back, and held it open toward him. Ted's eyes grew wide with surprise, and curiosity. "Food?" He craned his neck, trying to get a glimpse of the bag's contents, as the tantalizing odors invaded his awareness. "Real food?" "Milk . . ." cough, cough, "shakes!" Ruke swallowed then continued. "Pastrami, bläss you, girl!" He pulled a large paper cup, with a straw sticking out of it, and took a long pull at the straw. "Oh thät’s good." Rose reached into the bag and pulled out another milkshake and handed it to Ted. The straw went straight to his mouth at what appeared an almost dangerous velocity. "Mmmm, MMMM, mmmmm." Rose arranged the rest of the food on the small rolling table that stayed between the beds. There were two whole wheat rolls generously filled with pastrami, and two small cups of macaroni salad. They grabbed at the sandwiches almost simultaneously. "Relax! I saw the nurse in the hall, and she said it was okay." They tore into the fresh deli food, as though they were ravenous, ignoring Rose's comments. "Nobody's going to take them away from you. You'd think you'd been eating hospital food for months, not a few

days." She shook her head in disapproval as they gorged on. She pulled a chair between the beds and waited for them to slow enough for conversation. Ted stopped long enough to ask, "mum memmyz?" He swallowed to clear his throat when Rose stared back with a puzzled look. "From Vinnie's?" He asked again. She nodded in reply. Vinnie's Deli was Ted and Ruke's favorite. They had become obsessed with the pastrami. Rose smiled with her success in appeasing their appetites. Ted noticed her renewed smile, and slowed his voracious eating long enough to swallow and comment properly on her appearance. "You do look really nice." He said softly, emphasizing his sincerity. She brightened, her smile broadened, and she looked down at herself. "Do you like the dress?" She straightened a little in the chair. "Almost as much as what's in it. Hey, How bout we go dancin’?" He glanced at the sheet covering his feeble body. "As soon as I'm out of here." He felt a little awkward, and followed his question with a quick bite at his sandwich. "I'd love that. I haven't been dancing in ages." She answered coyly, not wishing to seem too anxious, but still wanting to sound interested. He smiled around a mouth full of pastrami, then continued chewing. Rose stifled a giggle at his awkward and silly expression. "You wänt your sälad?" Ruke asked putting his empty cup back on the table. They grinned upon noticing Ruke had already finished his meal. "Go ahead." Ted offered, then looked profoundly into Rose's eyes. "I'm feeling pretty content right now."

Rose squirmed and reddened a little in the cheeks, then pushed up a smile that showed her own contentment. They delved deeply into each other’s eyes, as Ted finished slowly chewing the last of his sandwich.

Ted wore a weary frown as he glared at their visitors. Ruke had rolled over to face away from the two men, and was performing a poor imitation of soft snoring. "Look gentlemen, if we don't get some answers . . ." The shorter of the two men stated threateningly, but stopped in frustration before he had finished. The two men were dressed in nearly identical suits and ties. Both were neatly groomed with short hair, and their posture was as stiff as their attitudes. It did not take a genius to guess they were agents. Ted had guessed it before their identification had come out. The shorter agent relaxed a little and continued. "So you still insist that agent Cranford, Miles Cranford, was involved." "Hey, I told ya the whole story. If you're done listenin’ why don't ya just leave!" Ted lashed back, but restrained himself from expressing the anger he really felt. The agent glanced at his partner, and then tried again. "There are still a lot of unanswered questions." Ted cut him off before he could ask one. "Yeah, I got one. Where were you guys when that maniac came after us? That guy needs a leash, and if he's one of yours, I wouldn't go bragin’ about it." Ted rolled over away from them, and started in on the same feigned sleep routine Ruke was using.

The two agents looked at each other and shrugged. The agent who had been speaking closed his notepad. "You will be hearing from us again." They turned and marched out of the room. Ted listened and was surprised that their steps were not in unison. He rolled over to see Ruke had rolled back too. "Whät are we going to do äbout them?" Ruke wondered out loud. "Yeah, somehow I don't think ignoring them will make them go away." Ted answered casually. "You think they will cause problems?" Ruke asked with concern. "Yeah! But I'm hopin’ they will make more problems for Miles than for us." Ted answered mustering a little enthusiasm. "It sounded like they were on his side." Ruke’s retort did not sound hopeful. "As long as they do their job they'll find the truth, eventually." Ted added the last word sounding more hopeful than convinced. "Whät äbout whät we've been doing, they might figure thät out also." Ruke commented sounding genuinely concerned. "We haven't been doing anything illegal. We've just kept our little discovery to ourselves. The worst thing they can do to us is not catch Miles." Ted dropped his head into his pillow and closed his eyes. Ruke nodded acceptance of that statement, and rolled back into his pillow also. He worked his shoulder around and smiled, pleased with its accelerated healing. Ben had come and worked with Ruke twice each day. His touch seemed to work miracles.

Ruke and Ted were released together, simplifying things for everyone. "Miles is still missing." Marsh commented, getting a concerned glance from Ted. "I'm sure we will be hearing from him again though." He continued as Ted climbed out of the mandatory wheel chair at the hospital entrance. He shook it off, deciding he was not going to let anything spoil such a beautiful day. Rose wrapped herself around his left arm giving him unneeded, but welcome, support. He pulled his arm up a little and clasped her fingers in his, and received a warm smile and an affectionate squeeze in response. "Where we goin’?" Ted asked with the sudden realization that their home had been destroyed. A flash of anger infringed momentarily on his cheerful demeanor, but he pushed it aside. "There's nothin’ left of the old place, Right?" Marsh helped Ruke into the cab he had called for, and then turned to Ted with a mischievous grin. "Jill's arranged something." He answered cryptically, and winked at Rose. When Ted turned to her, she looked down trying to hide a sheepish smile. "What? You guys keepin’ secrets?" Ted bounced his scrutiny between them looking for a clue. "Just a surprise." Marsh answered slowly with a touch of reproach, and Ted was effectively put off the subject. Ruke craned his neck out the door of the cab. "Could we stop ät Vennie's?" He pleaded hopefully. "Sorry, but other arrangements have already been made." Marsh answered motioning for Ted and Rose to climb into the cab. With a slight bow and a wave of his hand he closed the door. The cabby rushed them into traffic, leaving Marsh at the curb.

"What about Marsh?" Ted asked. Rose gently placed her fingers over his lips to still him. "He'll join us later, just relax." With her still clinging to his arm he found it very easy to relax. He sighed and cuddled into her soft caress. He closed his eyes and whispered. "Wake me when we get there. Wherever there is." "Sheez!" Ruke uttered jokingly at their affectionate behavior. He was completely ignored, so he rolled his eyes up, and turned to watch the city flash by his window.

Marsh forcibly held an obstinate grin on his face, and repeated for the seventh time. "I can not answer that." He had to hold out a while longer. Soon they would tire of asking and give up. If he allowed his smile to slip they would have him, they would know he was breaking down. It did not matter if the President himself was asking he would not betray their trust. Too much was at stake to trust any outsiders. If the wrong people gained knowledge of what Ted had accomplished it would be disastrous. Look what had happened with Miles, and he was only aware of part of the facts. Marsh hoped that he could trust Miles' greed and hatred to keep him from spreading what he did know. Realizing all this did not make it any easier to deal with these young and determined agents though. So he continued to express his loyalty with a dignified and composed smile. "Mister Marsh, You have cooperated with the Bureau before, don't force us to put a black mark on your record now." The same two agents who had interviewed Ted and Ruke in the hospital now questioned Marsh. The same placid grin was the only reply they

received. But Marsh’s resolve was wearing very thin in the face of their assault. "We know something was going on there, something worth using guns and bombs over, give us a clue. We're just trying to protect the public." The young agent had unknowingly turned to pleading, and his partner nudged his arm to get his attention. They shared a brief glance. That was all it took to remind him of the intended procedure. He took a deep breath and addressed Marsh with a rigid professional air. "You have nothing more to add to your statement?" "I've told you everything that I can, and all that you need." Marsh intoned. The pressure eased when he heard the agent's resigned closing remark. "We may need to talk to you again. Where will you be staying?" Marsh had anticipated the request, and pulled a folded piece of paper from his shirt pocket and passed it over. He turned to leave, barely restraining an enormous sigh, as he hastily retreated. He felt a little embarrassed with himself for being so eager to depart the company of these good men. "Oh, you will let us know if you're going to leave the city." Good or not, they were being pests. He rushed away, with a clear conscience, finally releasing the long held sigh. "Well?" The partner asked the agent who had been asking the questions. "Plan 'B'?" "Yeah. I guess." He resigned. "You follow Mister Marsh, I'll take Mister Phillips. I sure wish we had more help on this case. There's too many of them for just the two of us to watch." The agent reflected a moment. "Better get after him. I'll make a report and catch up later."

The cab had been navigating across town, up and down several hills, and in and out of different districts. If Rose and Ted had been paying attention to anything other than each other, they would have been lost, as Ruke was. Ruke had kept an eye out the back window, and he was sure no one was following. "Äre you sure we're not just wändering aimlessly?" Ruke gibed the cab driver, not wanting to sound too insecure. "Jest following déz directions." The young man answered holding up a sheet of paper with the TeleTech letterhead on it. A long list of streets with explicit directions covered the sheet. He smiled reassuringly into the mirror, and then went back to dealing with the heavy traffic. His accent suggested he might be a recent immigrant from Eastern Europe. He seemed a perfectly normal cabby, Ruke thought. 'For New York!' He shook his head and muttered to himself. "Now I äm being paranoid." He glanced at Ted and Rose, and found them staring back. "Sounds like you need a rest. Talking to yourself is one of the first signs ya know." Ted chuckled and Rose smiled. "What I need is something to do, I'm tired of resting!" He fumbled with the window crank. "You know whät I mean." He turned and looked out the window to escape further confrontation. Ted opened his mouth about to jump into the kibbutz window that Ruke had left wide open. But before he could begin his verbal assault, Rose squeezed his arm. By shifting her eyes and leaning her head she indicated he should look out the window on the

other side of the cab. "A park! Is that Golden Gate Park?" Ted boomed excitedly, and everyone turned and glared at him, even the cabby. "I like parks." He answered in resignation. "Especially big ones." He added with rekindled enthusiasm. "Yas Sir, Golen Gate Park." The cabby answered after a moment. "You're going to love our new location." Rose cooed. "Is it close to the park? Does it have a view?" Ted strained forward carrying Rose with him. Every word he spoke sounded more excited than the last. "Sir, I think you are getting your vish." The cabby proffered as he pulled up to the curb, and parked in front of a block of large row house apartments. "There." He leaned over the back of the seat and extended the sheet of paper with the directions and address to Ted. Then he pointed to a door near where they had parked. Ted looked at the door, and then swung his head to take in the park across the street. He turned his head back and leaned into Ruke's lap to try and take in the whole building, and then he turned back to the park. He repeated the excited back and forth animation, and might have comically continued, except Angie, Thomas, and Tanya burst out of the door. They trotted over to the cab and excitedly welcomed Ted and Ruke to their new home. Ted was ebullient, and could hardly wait. He was like a handyman who had won a shopping spree in a tool store. Rose was amused with his highly exhilarated boyish antics, and she felt his contagious attitude start to boil over into her own spirit. They could explore their new playground together. Thomas paid the cabby, and they went inside. The first thing they noticed when they entered was the large living room, which spread over into the next apartment. A wall had been removed creating a huge open area. The ceiling was open to the second floor,

and a staircase flanked either side of the room. There were windows everywhere, allowing light to enter from several directions. It felt almost as airy as the Mansion. "How big is this pláce?" Ruke blurted, surprised by what had seemed quite modest from the outside. "It's not as big as the Mansion, but I think it's plenty comfortable." George answered emerging from a door under the stairs to their right. "Have a seat, and make yourselves ta home. We'll have a little tour soon as Jill gets off the phone. Marsh called just a second ago. He should be here in less than an hour. He's already seen the place, so we'll do the tour without him." He gestured to three large sofas arranged around the largest coffee table that any of them had ever seen. The open side of the arrangement was exposed to a large brick fireplace, which held a couple of burning logs, that crackled and hissed softly creating comforting background sounds. The small fire seemed dwarfed by the enormous room. Opposite the sofas and fireplace was a complete entertainment center, with an arc of five large reclining chairs facing it, all very modern and stylish. Even with all this large furniture the room felt open and unrestrained. They all found seats on the sofas, but Ted could not keep from sneaking a peek every few seconds at the entertainment center. He was eager to get his hands on the new toys. There was only sporadic conversation as they waited. "We've come a long way!" Ted remarked almost to himself, but everyone overheard his vocalized thoughts, and he heard several expressions of agreement. Jill entered the room through the same door that George had emerged from earlier. Everyone rose to greet her. She held her palms up at shoulder height, and did a little half turn. "What do you think? Not bad for such short notice, huh?" She walked over

in front of the fireplace and faced the group. She waved across the room. "I'm sure you've noticed how exquisitely this room is furnished.” "If the rest of the place is anything like this, I'll be glad we lost the mansion." Ted snickered cheerfully. "Other than beds, dressers, and a couple of desks, this is all the furniture we have, but let's take a look, shall we." Jill replied. She gestured for everyone to follow her, and crossed the room. Passing the base of the stairs on the left side of the room she opened a pair of double doors, and led the way into a long empty room at the front of the apartment. "This used to be a game room, I thought it would make a perfect conference room." Ted walked over and looked out the window at the park, eager to go exploring there as well. "We may have to make sure Ted is seated facing away from the window." Ann's aspersion brought Ted's attention back into the room, and amused everyone else. Next Jill led the group around the stairs to a door. It was on the opposite side of the living room from the door she had originally appeared from. She opened the door and led them into a hallway. When everyone was in the hall, she pointed to a door behind them, which obviously led back under the stairs. "That is a powder room, small but functional." She turned and walked down the hall, and pointed to a pair of doors opposite each other. "The door on the left is a pantry and wine cellar. The other leads to the kitchen, we'll look at the kitchen in a moment." Then she continued down the hall. Ruke and Ted looked at each other, and simultaneously mouthed the words 'wine cellar'. Ruke opened the door and they stuck their heads in for a look. The racks were

disappointingly empty, but both smiled at the amount of room dedicated to storing fine drinkables. They hurried on to catch up as the group squeezed through a door at the end of the hall. "This is the study." Jill announced. It was lined on two sides with empty shelves. One wall supported a large, built in desk, and an equally large window with a view of a white brick wall. The remaining wall held glass doors that opened onto a private court surrounded by more tall white brick walls. The court contained a lush and surprisingly exotic garden, also some comfortable looking patio furniture. "Nice place to go to think." Jill voiced appreciatively. "I'll say!" Rose added, stepping up to the glass doors. "It's beautiful. Where does the gate lead to?" "Well let's find out." Jill stepped up to Rose, opened the door, and led the way out into the garden. "I'm glad you like that room, Rose. We thought it would make a good office for you." "For me? What about Marsh, or . . .?" "There's room for everyone to have their own work space." Jill cut her off, and stepped out into the court before Rose could continue. The group filed out after her. "Hey it's warm out here!" Ted blurted. "How can it be warm in back and cold in front?" "The walls and floors of these courts have built in heating elements. How else would you get exotic plants like those to grow in San Francisco?" Jill answered and pointed to the lush and unusual plants at the base of the walls. Then she pointed up to a huge light fixture high above the court. "That is used to augment the sun when it’s too

foggy. They tell me you can even get a tan from it." She turned and moved through the gate as though the statement had been insignificant. The gate opened to a pool and spa area that was joined by a covered patio filled with exercise equipment. "Wow! It just keeps getting better and better." Ted uttered. "Whoever had this place before sure knew how to live." Jill smiled pleased with the responses her acquisition was inspiring. "That small door is the sauna, and those glass doors lead to the dining room." She pointed first to a small wood door, then to a pair of glass doors located at the far side of the patio. Next she led the group through another pair of glass doors near the spa and into a large empty room. "This was the master suit, but we thought it could be setup with desks and equipment, as a common work area or main office. The walk-in closets could be used for file storage and supplies, and there are two separate master baths. No more knockin’ on the door to see who's in there. We'll just label one for the gals, and one for the guys." That comment drew a few chuckles, but she could see in their faces a bit of relief as well. There was already a desk with a phone next to one of the windows. Next she shepherded them into another hall. "There is a powder room under the stairs on this side as well. That's a storage area for sporting equipment, it has racks for skies, balls, rackets, bicycles, just about anything. And in here is the dining room." The dining room was large enough to easily handle their number, but it needed a table. The kitchen was next, although not on the same scale as the dining room or the living room. It was well-equipped and large enough for four people to work at the same time without crowding one another. "Next I'll show you the space we had in mind for Marsh's office." They followed her through the living room to double doors that were located at the base of the stairs on

the right side, opposite the doors to the conference room. Inside was an impressive desk with a few items of office equipment. When the whole room was viewed, even the massive desk seemed insignificant in its emptiness. "We'll have to get a few more pieces of furniture for in here, but Steve said he was comfortable with the desk." Rose checked herself from showing surprise when she heard Marsh's first name. Then wondered why none of them had ever used it, after all they all went by their first names. She decided she would have to ask him how he felt about that. "And now the upstairs. It's mostly bedrooms, eight of them actually. Four have private baths, and the other four share two common baths, and the laundry room separates the right from the left wings. I suppose we could work it out with guys in one wing and girls in the other." Jill narrated as they ascended the stairs. After touring the bedrooms, Jill stopped and turned to Ted. "It's already been decided that you will have a room in front, with a view of the park." Ted did not know what to say. He knew it would not help to argue, even if he had wanted to, so he just lowered his head and said, "Thanks." Then quickly added. "What about the Pit, where are we gonna set up the amplifier." "Follow me." Jill led them through the laundry room and out onto a covered balcony that over looked the pool. To the left were stairs leading up to a third level. "Does this place ever end?" George pondered aloud. At the top of the stairs was a door that opened into a long narrow room with windows facing the park. "I thought this might work." Jill stated. "This place doesn't have a basement."

Ted turned to Tanya, and Thomas, who were standing side by side. "You guys think you still need the isolation." They glanced at each other. "Ve shall see." Tanya answered. "If we have to, I guess we could build an isolation chamber inside here. Yeah, we can make it work." Ted said, rubbing his chin and looking at the walls. Rose cleared her throat, and took charge. "When Marsh gets here we'll make some decisions and get things going again." She looked around to verify their enthusiasm. "We are all going to have to make reports in a little while. Let's make sure we're ready with the latest possible information." The party broke up and everyone went their own way. Ted remained behind, and held Rose back with him. When they were alone, he walked over to the window guiding her by the hand. He stared out the window at the park silently for a moment. "Don't suppose we've got enough time to check out the park?" His eyes remained on the Trees and shrubs across the street. It was obvious he already knew the answer. "Sorry." Rose replied, knowing it would be dark before the meeting was over, and Ted would have to wait until tomorrow to go exploring. Then she turned and shared the view from treetop level. Memories of earlier times, simpler times, drifted across her consciousness. She hugged his arm and rested her head on his shoulder. They both sighed, and then gripped each other more tightly. Their moments alone had seemed few and far between. Table of Contents

Encounters Chapter 13

"We've got a lot to cover, dinner may have to wait." Marsh spoke initiating their reconstruction meeting. "I'm going to go down the list, and each of you will give a report on the department, or departments, over which you have been put in charge. When you are finished, I will ask questions, then everyone else will be allowed to ask questions." He glanced around the table, and realized the amount of excitement and anticipation would be likely to kindle a few arguments. He decided he would have to maintain a tight leash if he was to keep this meeting from either crumbling into chaos or lasting all night. "Let's keep it organized, and civilized. Arguing will not be tolerated." He glared at them to let them know he meant business. Rose smiled. She liked watching someone who could really take charge. "Tanya, you are first. Transportation is your responsibility." Marsh yielded the assembly to Tanya. Tanya stood and swept a commanding gaze over her comrades. A little more rigid and she would have been standing at attention. She spoke quickly and effectively, even though her accent had diminished little since joining the group. "Vé have only one vehicle at present, the bus. It és to bég to park here. It should stay wéth the old place tél we need it. I suggest two replacements. Vone large, a van or vagon, and vone smaller, incon-spic-uous." She struggled with the word, but it showed she was making an effort to improve. "I suggest two because vé have two single vehicle gar-ag-es." She was

determined to pronounce each word correctly. "Transport via psychic projection vill be unavailable until dé new amplifier is finished. Taxi service in dis area és adequate, but vé should not use the same service every time." She made an extra effort to pronounce ‘taxi’ correctly. "Local busses stop on dis block, I recommend dé bus service be our main mode of transport locally. Air travel can be arranged upon request." She nodded at Marsh, notifying him that she had concluded. "Concise and thorough, a good job." Marsh complimented Tanya. She nodded, and flashed a curt smile. "Thank you Tanya. If they don't already have them, I want the garage doors to be fitted with automatic openers. Does anyone have any questions?" No one responded. "I want all of you to dedicate time each day for practicing your skills, regardless of whether or not Ted's amplifier is working." He stared at each psychic to ensure they realized how important maintaining their skills were to the team. "Paul, report on our finances." Tanya sat as Paul rose from across the coffee table. "Our current financéal situation és quite respectable despite recent disastárs. We had to purchase thés property. Alzo to allow for purchases of vehicles, furniture, and equipment." He continued detailing the organization's holdings, revenues, debts, and plans for increasing their total worth. No one had objected to the psychic manipulation of their investments as immoral, but it was still held to a minimum. Paul's discourse was lengthy, and was starting to be tiresome when he finally concluded. "Thés leaves our current cash at six hundred, twenty, sousand, four hundred, and forty-two, American dollárz." Paul enunciated the amount clearly and slowly in an attempt to dramatize the large amount of cash they possessed. He felt successful when he saw several jaws drop noticeably. "Unfortunately thés cash sum

constitutes the bulk of our liquid assets, other than thés beautiful complex, which we, of course, did not finance. I fear that after the áfore mentioned purchases we will be nearly broke." "Have we changed banks yet?" Marsh questioned, unaffected by the sum. "Well." Paul glanced at Ruke and Jill. Getting no response from either, he stumbled through his explanation alone. "We decided, it would be desirable to make our funds as untraceable as possibóle. Ah, currency és very difficult to trace, zo, ah, it és not in a bank." Marsh raised his eyebrows. "You have the entire six hundred thousand here?" He was unsuccessful in keeping the surprise out of his voice. "Ah, Yes." Paul reached down and lifted a briefcase to the table that had been clamped between his ankles, and proceeded to open the combination locks. The lid opened to reveal several stacks of stiff green currency. He turned the case so everyone could see. Wide eyes bloomed around the table. "I see." Marsh finally broke their revere. "Do you feel you can be responsible for that?" He pointed at the briefcase. "Most of thés will probably be spent over the next few days. I think ét will be all right. I feel better now zhat everyone knows." Paul answered in an uncharacteristically timid tone. "Yes, well Ruke can help you with it." Marsh turned to Ruke, who nodded affirmatively. He took a deep tension-relieving breath and continued. "Next, Ben, will you give your report on health?"

"Oh yes." Ben's musical accent chimed as he clambered to his feet. "I have started files for everyone. And I intend to do monthly examinations on everyone as well. Starting with Ted and Ruke tomorrow morning. I have made a list of first aid and medical supplies I would like to have. It is a very small list." Ben added the last comment as he peeked at the still open briefcase on the coffee table. "I Think once every other month will be more than sufficient, Ben." Marsh commented, and then addressed Paul. "I think you can put that away for now." He suggested, nodding at the briefcase. Paul immediately secured the currency without a word, and placed it back between his ankles. Ben nodded a consenting reply, and started to sit. "Is there anything else you will be needing?" Ben halted in mid descent to the sofa, and struggled back up again. His lanky body flailed at the joints to reverse his direction. Rose fought a snicker at Ben's amusing movements, and managed to hold it to a clinched smile. "No Sir. My meager services require very little. Until they are truly needed of course." Ben smiled broadly then lowered himself to the sofa. "Very true. Very true." Marsh muttered absent-mindedly. Then catching himself, he spoke more directly. "I am sure Ruke will testify to the value of your services. His doctor, said he had never seen anyone recover so rapidly in his entire career." "Oh, thank you very much. It feels very wonderful to be useful and appreciated." Ben acknowledged in his extravagant way. "I hope no one has any problem with a checkup with Ben every other month?" Marsh solicited, but no one commented. "Good. Next, Thomas, Communication?"

"Yeah." Thomas replied as he stood. "I canceled all the old phone accounts, message services, and computer data accounts. I had two new phone lines inst . . ." "You canceled . . ." Ted started to interrupt with a note of exasperation. "You'll get your chance Ted." Marsh cut Ted off, maintaining firm control of the meeting. "Go ahead Thomas." "Well, I had two new phone lines installed here, and the old service abandoned. I've got a list of phones and radios I'd like to get, doesn't come to much, less than a thousand." Thomas glanced at Ted, unsure why Ted was upset. "Does that include personal, as well as office phones?" Marsh asked intentionally forestalling Ted. "Yes, We'll have phones for everyone." Thomas promptly replied, glancing at Ted again. "Okay Ted, what's your problem?" Marsh scornfully asked. "You canceled my network accounts?" Ted fumed at Thomas. "No, I couldn't, didn't have your password." Thomas answered coolly, with no malice. "Listen, man, everybody's gotten pretty security conscious since Miles dumped his gray matter! Any old accounts might have flags on um. Use um and it might lead the bad guys here." Thomas spoke to enlighten without belittling. Ted blanched and looked down, feeling quite embarrassed. "Oh yeah, sorry." "Hey, no problem." Thomas smiled at Ted as he sat. Marsh cleared his throat, and glared at Ted, before continuing. "Ruke, you and Ted weren't given a chance to prepare for this, but just tell us what you have in mind for security."

Ruke rose slowly. His brow was furrowed in concentration. "I would like to plänt some of Ted's sensors over in the park, mäybe a couple of cämeras too. That would be the perfect place to watch us from. We'd älso häve a better chänce of spotting anyone suspicious from there thän from here." "Good, good, I hadn't thought of that." Marsh commented as he made some notes. "I also would like to monitor everyone's schedule, to make sure we don't become too predictable. It is not part of my duties, but I suggest we have another place prepared in case we need to leave here quickly." "Yes, that is a good idea, and we are already working on it." Marsh nodded at Jill, who nodded back. "I will consult with you before I make a final decision about our, ah . . . safe house, shall we call it." "We should limit our use of telephones, credit, änd anything traceable." Ruke took a deep breath, glanced down at the briefcase between Paul's ankles, and then turned back to Marsh. "I will häve a better report for the next meeting." He lowered himself slowly into the sofa, and peeked at Ted, who was curling fingers with rose. Angie was called on next to report on the kitchen. It seemed long and boring to Ted who could think of little more than exploring the park, and being alone with Rose. Yes, a walk in the park with Rose would be perfect. Ted slipped back off into his daydreamed adventure, with Rose in the park. He saved her from a troll like creature, and she thanked him extravagantly. Just as his grin was starting to beam with his fantasy, Rose squeezed his hand. He jerked his attention to her, and she pointed with her eyes to the other side of the table.

Angie stood looking at him with a curious questioning expression on her face. She was just opening her mouth to say something to him when Marsh cut her off. "I think we ought to take a break. I know I said I wanted to finish before dinner, but now I think we need a break. Tanya, Thomas, and George, run down the street to that Italian place and pick something up. Some large Calzone's would be nice, get the money from Paul. We'll have an early dinner, then get back to the meeting." His huge hand slapped his folder shut with a finality that squelched any questions or objections. He picked up the folder, stood and walked around the sofa and leaned down behind Ted, and whispered in his ear. Ted had been baffled by the entire incident, but realization and embarrassment were slowly taking hold of him. He almost cringed when Marsh bent over him. "I'd like to see you in my office please." Marsh whispered. Ted turned and whispered back. "Sorry." He turned to Rose with a grimace. "See ya in a little bit. I gotta talk to Marsh." She visibly shared his anguish, and nodded with comprehending sympathy. She felt somewhat responsible for his dilemma, having a vague idea what he might have been pondering by the way he had been fondling her hand.

Marsh was seated at his desk, a picture of serious deliberation. There was more on his mind than a minor case of inappropriate daydreaming. Ted went from slightly abashed to truly concerned. He sat in the folding chair that was the only other available chair in the room.

"What? You've got more on your mind than just my lapse of attention." Ted prodded. "No! That's exactly what this is about." Marsh's harshness ended with the first word. "I was hoping I wouldn't have to spell it out for you . . . but your mind's been way out in left field lately." Ted was set back by Marsh's comment. What am I missing? "I thought things were going pretty well, all things considered. What's the problem?" Marsh leaned back in his chair and smiled. "Well, first of all, don't get me wrong. I think it's about time you and Rose got together. That part's great, but . . ." "Is that what this is all about, our relationship?" Ted leaned forward feeling more than a little hostile toward anyone who would come between him and Rose. "Relax, and listen! Like I said, I'm on your side about that, but grant me the fact that romance will mess with your mind." Marsh waited as Ted cooled down and finally nodded agreement. "You're in the middle of a paradox. That's the problem. You're the kind of guy who usually tries to avoid responsibility, typical of most technicians." Marsh added the last comment with a sneer. Ted bobbed his head, and grinned. "Well, I don't know if you've looked around you lately, but there's a dozen or so people running around here, trying their damnedest, to make this program fly." Marsh stopped a moment for the weight of his statements to settle. "Every one of those people, out there, is counting on you to make it happen. This is not a nine to five position you've gotten yourself into. You can't walk away from it each night. If you fail or quit, you leave all those people hangin’ in the breeze."

Marsh could almost see the cogs turning in Ted's mind. Before they could churn up a mood of depression, he continued. "The hard part's all done, you've already made the system work, now all you've got to do is duplicate it." That seemed to slow Ted's growing signs of anxiety. "A little while ago in the meeting when you failed to answer Angie's question, I saw signs of panic in some faces. Without you, this whole thing would just, fall apart. Everyone probably would just end up going home, but if we can put it all back together, we have a chance to do something significant. Hell, we might even save this . . . human race, from itself. They all realize that too. This is a once in a millennia opportunity to be part of a world-shaping endeavor. Ted, I got involved in this because I saw the chance to be involved in what could be the most consequential event in our life times." He took a deep breath, and decided he should back off a little. "Now that I've got you ready to crawl in a hole and hide from anxiety, I've got one more thing to say. When I accepted your proposal to administrate this program, there were two reasons why I decided to get involved. The first was it's importance, and the second was you. I couldn't think of anyone I would trust more with my fate. Though you try to be a cut-up, you’re one of the most dependable and honest people I’ve ever met." Ted did a double take at that statement. "Me? No! You just got done callin’ me irresponsible." "What I said was that you were the kind of guy who avoids responsibility, not one who shirks existing responsibilities. There’s a big difference. Most people in your position would be trying to figure out what they could get for themselves out of the situation. You seem happy with whatever comes your way. The power of what you know could be used to ransom the entire planet. Look around you. The others are following

your shining example. I doubt most of them would be as benevolent as they are if it weren’t for you. I haven't heard one complaint from them. They’re following your lead. That's why we're in here talking, that's why I stopped the meeting. I hate being your wet blanket, but someone needed to wake you up, before you accidentally did something to let everyone down." Ted sat there in awe. He had not really looked at the big picture. He did not completely agree with Marsh. He definitely was not a saint. Had he been taking the program too lightly? Considering its newly defined value, yes, even if Marsh was exaggerating. "I need to think about this." Ted finally replied. "Of course, that’s why I brought you in here. You've got until dinner's over." Marsh warned, with a chuckle. Somehow that irony relaxed Ted, and he answered with a cryptic smile.

Ted was silent through dinner. He managed to stay alert for the meeting, but his responses were as brief as he could make them. When the meeting finally ended, he retired to his room without a word to anyone even Rose. A few minutes later Rose knocked softly on his door. She received a weary sounding 'yes' from inside. "It's me, can I come in?" All she heard was a moment's silence then the door opened. "Sorry, didn't mean to ignore ya. Got a lot to think about right now though." Ted stood blocking the doorway, a melancholy expression hanging on his face.

Rose had conferred with Marsh before coming up to Ted's room, so she was expecting something like this. It still hurt to see it though. She clasped her hands behind her back. "Maybe I could help." She offered demurely. Ted's resistance melted at her coy display, and he reached out and pulled her into his chest. The fragrance of her hair surprised him as they embraced. He felt her squeeze him fiercely in response. 'If only it could be just us, and everything else would just go away.' After a minute of holding her he gently turned her face to his, and gave her a short subtle kiss on the lips. Her green eyes sparkled like a sunrise on an emerald sea. "Let's go for a walk in the park." He softly urged. "In the park?" Rose furrowed her brow. "At night?" "Right." He turned and stepped over to his closet, then stepped back. "Better grab a sweater." She gave him a look of exasperation. "No, it's not safe!" She countered again. "Hey, I promise I'll keep my hands to myself." Ted taunted. "It wasn't you I was worried about." "I need some air, you comin’ or not?" He said turning serious. "Why can't anything be easy with you?" She set upon him with a smug expression and a finger waving in the air. "If we get mugged, you'll never hear the end of it." She wheeled and marched off to her room to retrieve something warm to wear. He managed to sneak them out before anyone could ask where they were going. They quickly crossed the street between the occasional cars. Hand in hand Ted led the way into the park. Rose held back a moment, but quickly yielded to Ted's urging. They

pushed farther into the darkness within the trees, Rose hesitated again, requiring more coaxing. "This is crazy. Why are we here?" Rose panted, pulling her hand free and crossing her arms defiantly. Ted looked around assessing the appropriateness of their present location. A large tree partially covered the small clearing, and he could see stars twinkling beyond the tree. There was a large boulder beside them. Traffic noises faintly echoed from behind the locomotive sized granite barrier. The ground was covered with dry leaves, but it was too dark to tell if there was any grass. He decided it was perfect. They had the boulder at their backs, and the leaves to give away the footsteps of anyone who approached. He walked over to the center of the stone obstruction, and sat at its base. Rose followed with her arms still crossed, and remained standing. Ted easily imagined the details of her staunch expression, which were obscured by the darkness. "Relax, sit down." His voice, though barely more than a whisper, resounded in his ears. He patted the ground beside him, and was amused by the sound of the dry leaves crunching under his light pressure. Even in the darkness he could see her posture relent. She settled in beside him, rustling the leaves in the near silence, as she clutched his arm to her chest, and rested her head on his shoulder. He leaned his head against the rock and gazed up at the distant stars, wondering how many more would be visible if they were not so close to the city lights. He dragged his view down to glance at Rose and noticed that she too was gazing upward. Then he felt her release a subtle sigh. Her response was irresistible, and he sighed himself.

"I'm glad the fog hasn't rolled in yet." Rose purred, nuzzling her head into his neck. "Every time I follow your lead we end up someplace wonderful. Someday maybe I'll learn." She lifted her head off his shoulder, looked into the dark pits of his eyes, and saw a tiny sparkle inside. "Are you going to tell me why we came out here, or are we just going to watch the stars?" She did not wait for a reply, but put her head back on his shoulder. Ted could not help but sigh again, Rose let out a quick little satisfied giggle, and cuddled in even closer. He remained silent for a long while as he mulled over his answer. "I assume you know what Marsh said to me this evening." “U-huh.” She answered. "Well, his little pep talk didn't have quite the effect he intended." "Mummm?" She remained nestled against him completely content. They remained silent for a while again, and then he broke the silence and the enchantment. "Who would suffer if we just disbanded the project?" Rose bolted upright, suddenly rigid in astonishment. "What are you saying? You want to give up?" "Shh." He reached out and put his hand under her chin and stroked her cheek with his thumb. She relaxed and flowed with his caressing, and he answered. "I don't know . . . maybe." She reached up and ran her hand back and forth over the back of his. "You're serious?" She sounded startled at the realization. "Don't give me an answer now, but think about it, and let's just keep this between us." He could see her trying to peer into his eyes again, and he knew she'd see nothing in

the darkness. She still stroked his caressing hand, and he decided they had talked enough. He reached out with his other hand and slipped it up the crook of her neck to support her head. Then he gently rolled over and lowered her softly beneath him. He stopped, his lips an inch from hers and studied her face. She gazed back but the moment was too inviting, too sententious to resist. She raised her lips to his in urgency, and the passion spread through their bodies like wildfire.

Ted opened the door and found Ann and Marsh sitting before the Television with the volume turned low. Ted inspected Rose and himself, the first chance they had in the light. He reached up and pulled a couple of leaves out of her hair, and a couple more from her sweater. He grinned at the older couple's stern expressions, then noticed Rose's embarrassment. He put his arm over her shoulder and walked her to the stairs. "Ted." Marsh called after them. "I know. In your office." Ted said in a humdrum sarcastic manner. "Let me walk Rose to her room first." "I'd like to talk to both of you." Marsh added in his most courteous tone. Ann merely supported Marsh with a solemn expression, as she turned off the Television. Ted looked at Rose's face, and was surprised at how upset she was by the confrontation. "No, It'll have to wait till morning." He replied enfolding Rose and guiding her up the stairs. At her door he pulled yet another leaf from her hair. "Night Love." He kissed her lightly and squeezed her to him.

When he released her, she looked deeply into his eyes. He responded with an insidious grin. She studied his face for a moment, then gave him a quick kiss and disappeared behind the door. Ted ambled down the stairs considering what he might say to Marsh, he knew Ann would get her answers from Rose. When he descended into the living room, he noticed Ann climbing the other stairs, and smiled smugly to himself for his astute prediction of Ann's behavior. Marsh had already gone into his office. The open door allowed a broad shaft of light to spill into the now dark entry. Ted braced his shoulders and marched into the light. Ted sat, and the two men stared silently at each other for a moment. Marsh's grim expression suggested his motive was more serious than Ted had thought. Ted slowly transformed from a blank stare to nervous inquisitiveness, as Marsh seemed unable to bring his thoughts to words. "What?" Ted interjected. "Something's happened, what?" Ted's concern grew as Marsh's face softened with regret. Ted turned rigid. Anxiety drove him to the edge of his seat in anticipation of bad news. Marsh dropped his eyes a moment, then raised them again as he drew in a deep breath in preparation for delivering the distressing news. "Bill's dead." He stated quickly and flatly, and then waited for Ted to recover. Though Marsh's demeanor had partially prepared him for bad news, this was enough to shock him into complete sobriety. "Bill?" He muttered the simple epitaph, not really expecting any reply. His mind flashed to Bill's conniving face, and he remembered being persuaded to pull that foolish joke on Rose. He recalled the scene vividly . . .

"Hey, It was your idea." Bill smiled wolfishly. "You can't back out. Besides we've got too much time and money into this to just walk away." Bill elbowed Ted lightly, trying to provoke him into action. Ted only sat staring at his keyboard, deep in second thoughts. He wanted to respond with a disarming taunt, but none came to him. Perhaps he should just initiate the program, but his conscience was eating away at his bravado. If not for Bill, he would already have abandoned the prank. "There's no way we'll get caught, the setup's foolproof." Bill instigated. "We'll never get another opportunity like this." Ted looked over at the security monitor, and saw Rose standing in line to use a catalog terminal in the center of the library. He had to initiate the program before she logged in for the plan to work. His fingers hovered over the keyboard, bending and flexing with indecision. Bill patted Ted on the shoulder. "Hey, if It's not in ya, it's not in ya." He offered in a disappointed tone. Ted looked at Bill's face, hardening his own. That last comment cut too deeply into his pride, and his fingers started jabbing at the keyboard even before he had turned back. His fingers flew over the keys in a blur. Text lines scrolled down the monitor almost too fast to read. Ted glanced over at the security monitor. Rose was stepping up to the terminal. It was going to be close. He keyed in the final command, and jerked his hands away from the keyboard in a flourish, like a concert pianist finishing a performance. He

jerked his head around to see Rose stabbing at the keys. For a moment he thought he had been too slow. Then she stepped back jerking her hands away from the keys. Ted smiled to himself then glanced up at Bill defiantly. Bill's wolfish grin mixed with his air of glee, bolstering Ted's ego. "Got her, Good job!" Bill congratulated . . .

"They found him yesterday." Marsh interrupted Ted's reverie, causing him to snap his attention back to Marsh. "They say he was tortured." "Tortured? Bill?" Ted questioned, unbelieving. "Those two agents, the ones who have been tailing us, came in this evening while you were out and briefed me. No one else knows yet, . . ." "Miles!" Ted growled. "Yes, at least they believe us now." Marsh hesitated and swallowed. "Did Bill know anything that might lead Miles to this place?" He asked as delicately as he could, without beating around the bush. Ted was glaring right through Marsh and grinding his teeth. "I haven't talked to Bill since before the bombing." He spat the words out with a deep burning rage. "I don't suppose they had any idea where Miles was?" Marsh crossed his arms, leaned back, and contemplated Ted's blatant state of intensity. Marsh wondered what Ted would do about his friend's death. "That was the first thing they asked me, and they questioned Jill too. They can't find him."

"No, but we can." Ted's words oozed with vengeance. He rose and turned to leave. "Ted, What are you going to do?" Marsh questioned with concern. "Just what everyone wants me to do, get the amplifier working again." He answered as he walked out the door. His only concern, of the moment, was getting to a computer. He had to generate a list of parts and equipment, to be acquired first thing in the morning. Marsh shook his head, hoping Ted would gain control before he did something regrettable. Table of Contents

Animosity Chapter 14

"I was beginnin’ to think he didn't want to build a new amp. Now I almost wish he weren't. Look at this list." George complained to Rose, holding out a piece of paper for her to see. The bus trundled along, taking them downtown. "Yesterday he was all moon eyed, now he's blazin’ round like his tail's on fire. What'd you say to him last night?" George instantly realized he had committed a major 'faux pas'. "Sorry, insert foot in mouth, chew well." He mumbled as she sagged away from him. Rose turned to look out the window, hoping for a distraction, but try as she might she could not wrench her mind off the sudden change in Ted. She had lain in bed longer this morning than usual, unwilling to give up the cozy, warmth. She had felt so contented, especially after last night with Ted and the park and the stars. She had expected some reactions from the others when they learned of their tryst, but the morning had turned out very differently than she had expected. Half the team had already left on errands, when she finally sauntered into the kitchen. Those who remained were in too much of a hurry to do anything more than acknowledge her presence. In retrospect they were probably trying to avoid her. The real shock was Ted. He had offered a smile that was obviously not heartfelt, gave her a quick peck on the cheek, and fled back to his electronic love. She had stood there in shock, confused and hurt, long after he had left. Everyone she had asked about his behavior had treated her as if she should know the answer. Unfortunately Marsh, who was always on top of everything, had already left. Perhaps she should have

allowed Ann to talk to her last night. Ann might have warned her of the impending strangeness of this morning. When George had tried to recruit her to help him retrieve equipment for Ted, she had stumbled along in a daze, not knowing what else to do. She needed to get away and get some sort of perspective. She had questioned George about Ted's behavior, but he had no answers. Then She had felt a growing embarrassment as his awareness of her quandary had grew. Rose glanced at the list George still held on his lap and decided to get her mind on their mission. "How are we supposed to get all that . . . stuff, back to the house?" She asked softly. "Oh, Ruke's pickin’ up a van. He'll meet us there." George answered sounding relieved. He felt forgiven for his verbal blunder, and they reviewed the list and planned their day.

Rose, George, and Ruke returned that evening to find everyone busy cleaning, cooking, or arranging the new furnishings that had been acquired that day. The hustle and bustle inside made maneuvering difficult in the busy hallways, especially with their arms loaded with parcels. They battled their way into the office, formerly the master suite, and deposited their loads. Ted was completely impervious to the turmoil happening about him. Which Rose found amazing, as the office was being simultaneously rearranged, equipped, and stocked. Ted's face seemed immovable, fixed, inches from his computer monitor. His slouching frame spoke plainly of the fatigue in his body.

Rose took charge. "Put those boxes over there." She instructed George and Ruke. They complied instantly, noticing the set of her shoulders and her tone of command. She was going to get to the bottom of what was going on with Ted, and she was going to do it now. "Ted." He made no response. "Ted!" He turned slowly to face her, completely devoid of emotion or retort. His eyes were dark and bagged, his hair a mess. "You've got thirty seconds to shut that thing down or I'll do it for you, and I won't worry about what gets lost from memory." She put her fists on her hips and assumed a stance of control. Ted's eyes opened a little wider, then he looked around the office. The noisy rummaging he had grown used to had completely stopped, and silent speculation hung in the air. Everyone stood frozen watching Ted and Rose. Even Marsh stood in the doorway silently waiting for Ted's response. Ted swept his view across the room noticing the expectant expressions. The corners of his mouth drew up slightly into a weak and weary smile. "Glad you're back Babe." He reached out and took her hand with a gentle squeeze, then tapped a few keys with the other and turned the machine off. The winding down of the computers’ cooling fan set up an ominous silence. He rose slowly and shakily, using her hand for more support than she was prepared for, but she responded quickly sliding to his side to make sure he did not fall. With her arm around his waist, she draped his arm over her shoulder and escorted him out of the office. Ted was depending on her support too much, and she was not sure she could supply the strength he needed to make it up the stairs to his room. He wobbled and took short feeble steps as though he were drunk. He had worked feverishly all night, and through the day, without rest or nourishment. Coupled with the fact that he was not completely recovered from the catastrophe at the mansion, put him beyond his reserves,

and virtually dead on his feet. They reached the stairs and her fear blossomed. But Ruke came to her rescue, and grabbed Ted’s other arm. They practically carried him up the stairs. He stumbled with exhaustion, barely keeping his eyes open. They lowered him to his bed and covered him with a blanket. "You won't believe the improvements I came up with." He managed another weak smile. "New and improved, much, more, practical, an . . ." His rambling faded, and he rolled over and fell fast asleep. Rose removed his shoes, and turned out the light. Shaking her head, she blew him a kiss and closed the door. Marsh and Ruke were waiting around the corner at the top of the stairs. "What kind of leader are you, letting him do that to himself. He can barely remember his name." She scolded Marsh. "Exactly." Marsh grinned slyly. "He needs to do some forgetting." Rose started to interrupt, but he held up his hand to belay her. "I had to give him some bad news last night. He didn't take it very well. The only thing he's had on his mind since, is vengeance." Marsh watched comprehension creep across her face, and just before she would have spoke he continued. "Bill is dead." Her eyes opened wide. "Those agents who have been questioning us were here yesterday. They told me he was tortured to death." All the color ran from Roses face, and her knees buckled. Ruke stepped forward and caught her arm, steadying her enough to keep her from falling. Emotions and understanding flooded through her, all quite visible to her friends. "He thinks it was Miles?" She asked after regaining her composure. "Who else would it be?" Ruke blurted. "Yes. He's been fit to be tied since he found out." Marsh added.

"No wonder he acted that way this morning!" Rose harbored a hint of guilt over her morning's suspicions. "In his rage he wouldn't listen to anyone. I decided to let him work it off." Marsh interrupted Rose's recollection of her morning's frustrating encounter. "I discovered something very worrisome today." Marsh continued, and Rose blanched at the thought of more bad news. Marsh noticed the questioning look flash back through her eyes. "I have no way to control Ted, no leverage to use for persuasion. Everyone else here I'm able to manipulate one way or another. An administrator needs that to be successful. But Ted, he's a free spirit, there's nothing I can offer, or threaten him with, that he values enough for me to be effective." He paused a moment to allow her to catch up. "You seem to be the only effective influence we have." "I love him." She answered in a barely audible tone. "Yes, and that's why I have to talk to you before he does." Marsh spoke with serious intent. Rose looked back in surprised concern, not sure how to appraise his statement. "What are you getting at?" She felt pressed, as though she were being asked to betray a trust, no worse, her love.

Ted awoke the next morning feeling a little fatigued, but invigorated, even happy, but this passed quickly. He remembered, and his morning freshness was quickly replaced with a scowl. He looked at his rumpled clothing and decided that could wait. He had a mission of vengeance. He pulled the hair out of his eyes and reached for the door, but it opened on its own, surprising him.

"Oh good, I'm glad you're up." Rose said, pushing her head through the opening. She opened the door farther and stepped in. "We've got a big day planned for you. Gotta get that amplifier up and running again, ya know." She stepped over to his closet and shuffled through his clothes. "Ah, this will do. Well, don't just stand there you need a shower." Her nose wrinkled in offense, and she added, "badly! What would you like for breakfast? I saw waffles and fresh strawberries, I'm sure Angie could make you a waffle. Well, get moving, people are waiting on you." She set the clothes she had chosen on the bed and gave him a gentle shove toward the bathroom. Ted's startled look had frozen, and he was completely at a loss. Somehow the venom in his blood had dissipated, leaving him confused, amused, and suddenly very hungry. Rose looked clean, efficient, and ready for work, and as usual, very beautiful. Rose could see in Ted's eyes that this was the moment to steer his mind away from that appalling revenge. "Stinky or not I've gotta have you hold me for a minute, I didn't see you at all yesterday." She hugged him fiercely. She made him feel warm and contented. His arms were pinned at his side by her aggressive hug. Her face was turned down with her cheek against his chest, so he kissed the top of her head. When she turned, he planted one on her lips. She relaxed her hug while absorbing the kiss, and he pulled his arms free. The kiss was long and passionate, and left both of them breathless. "I think I like waking up like this." Ted bantered, then squeezed her in his arms. "Oh! Not so hard" She complained, pushing him away. "Besides you still need a shower." She wrinkled her nose again and leaned back a little farther.

"Well!" He feigned a wounded pride, and then grinned. "Unless you feel like scrubin’ my back, I'll see ya down stairs in a few minutes." He taunted as he pulled his shirt over his head. He had expected to see her reddened face, after the shirt had cleared his view. Instead she was brazenly admiring his bare chest. "Humm," She answered suggestively. Ted was unprepared for Rose's unusual boldness, and consequently failed to supply one of his typical quick-witted replies. "Maybe next time." Rose added seductively and slipped out the door. Ted shook off his amazement, and slipped into the shower humming as he started the water. "How'd it go?" Marsh pounced as soon as Rose rounded the corner. Rose smiled with confidence. "I think he'll have something other than revenge on his mind for a while." Marsh looked a little skeptical. "I hope you're right." He noticed that Rose looked hurt by his lack of faith in her feminine wiles. "I'll join the two of you at breakfast, and we'll work on phase two." He added and promptly descended the stairs and marched into his office. Ted soaped himself and shifted from humming to whistling. ‘I wonder what she was up to.’ He glanced at the ceiling in concentration for a moment, and then went back to humming and cleaning himself. ‘They are probably just trying to get my mind off Miles.’ His eyes glowed with intent for a second, and then he continued humming. She had definitely made him feel better, but vengeance still dominated his agenda.

Waffles and strawberries were Ted's favorite breakfast. The overly courteous service and generous portions only served to make him more suspicious. He did his best not to show it, though. "Would you like another?" Angie asked politely from his side. "Uh-uh." Ted garbled over a full mouth, and then shook his head to reinforce that he had eaten his fill. She smiled, and then left to clean the kitchen. Rose picked at her strawberries, hardly consuming anything, patiently watching Ted. "Morning Steve." She greeted as Marsh entered the room. Ted stopped chewing for a moment. He had never heard Rose address Marsh by his first name. ‘That clinches it. They've been together plotting something. Something they couldn't tell me about.’ He quickly turned his head and smiled at Marsh, being careful not to express his insight. "Morning, you two. It's nice to see you back to normal Ted." Marsh greeted as he took a chair. Ted smiled around another mouth full of waffle. ‘Now what are you two going to try, Sugar and honey? No, you'll probably try to work me till I drop again.’ He glanced studiously at each of them, and then returned to his breakfast. ‘I'll just play along for now. After all, we all want the same results.’ Ted ate on as Rose and Marsh watched. When Ted had sucked down his last strawberry, Marsh started. "How long before the new amplifier is up and running?"

Ted thought Marsh's serious demeanor was a little too forced. He threw a quick glance at Rose, before he answered. ‘Yes, she does look a little nervous.’ Marsh seemed in much better control. "Barring unforeseens, four, maybe five days." Ted noticed by Marsh's expression that the answer was about what they had expected. He knew they would have been surprised to find out that he could have a Jerry-rigged version working in less than half a day, and a substantially improved design at that. He knew he wouldn't be able to concentrate on his undeclared project without someone catching on though, so he figured with interruptions he might finish his secret amplifier sometime that evening. "That is the most important order of business, at present, so please keep me informed of your progress." Marsh paused to bear a sinister grin. "After all, until the amplifier is working, we have no way of locating Miles." Ted did a double take. The last thing he had expected out of Marsh's mouth was that name. ‘Who's playing who?’ The two men stared at each other for a moment. Ted knew Marsh was an excellent strategist. He would have to be diligent in his efforts to conceal his private activities. "Will you be needing any help?" Marsh continued. "From time to time." Ted's vagueness seemed to spark something in Marsh, but Ted could not discern what it might be. "Who's available?" Ted expected Marsh to answer either Rose, or Ruke. "I had thought Ruke would be the most practical assistant, but he's out on an errand. Won't be back till noon." "That'll be fine." Ted cut Marsh off before he could suggest anyone else. "I won't need any help till then anyway." The plan that Ted was hatching involved Ruke's support,

and the sooner he could start working on him the better. Ted wondered if Marsh had already recruited Ruke. He knew it would be simpler if he had not. Ted realized that he could take nothing for granted. He would have to approach Ruke carefully. "Rose, when you get a moment I'd like to see you in my office." Marsh stood abruptly and left. "How about lunch?" Rose queried with a luscious smile, her emerald eyes sparkling with mischievous intent. Ted fell into her eyes and for a moment, and forgot the guileful game they were playing. "Could you bring something upstairs for the three of us?" Ted answered, catching himself, and denying his emotions. The sparkle faded from her eyes, and her smile sagged slightly. "Pastrami and fries?" She managed to maintain her cheerful facade. Ted scurried around the corner of the table, and kissed her on the cheek. "I love you." He offered trivially. Rose did not accept it trivially though. Her expression turned serious as she studied his face. Before he could move away she jumped up and hugged him intensely. "I hope you don't mind hearing it, but I love you too?" Ted squeezed her back, and though he felt an agonizing need to reveal his plan, she was being the wrong kind of serious. "See ya for lunch." He answered backing out of the room hastily. Rose set her hands firmly on her hips and glared at his retreat. "Men!" She mistook his hasty departure for some sort of masculine fear of commitment. She turned in a huff and stomped off to her office.

The smoke from the soldering iron wafted up toward his face, flowed around one side and floated lazily above his head. The small cloud never grew or diminished. It only shifted lazily in the still air of Ted's new workroom. When he would pivot his head to gaze longingly out the window at the park across the street, it would agitate his tiny cloud. He still hadn't explored the park yet, but that would have to wait. "There." He uttered to himself straightening and stretching his stiff back and arms. He reached over and turned the power off to the soldering iron and placed the iron in its stand. The vapor slowly diminished as he loosened the work clamp and lifted the small panel he had been soldering, and inspected his work. "Not bad." He gently placed it in a small chest under his desk. He stood stretching his back again reaching his arms toward the ceiling, all the time staring at the park. A knock at the door caused Ted to yank his arms down and pivot his head around to ensure that the chest was tucked away securely under the desk. A moment later the door opened and Ruke stepped into the room. "I pässed Rose on my way in, she wäs going out to get lunch. She said she would be bäck soon." Ruke stepped over to a window and admired the view of the park. 'I wonder why Rose went out, we’ve got pastrami in the kitchen.' Ted joined Ruke, setting his elbows on the sill and his nose to the glass. "I've been here three days, and I still haven't been over there." "You häve only been here two däys, änd thät's not whät I heard." Ruke cocked his head toward Ted, expecting a reaction, but Ted had missed the connection, and just stared

out at the trees. "I heard you änd Rose were collecting leaves in the därk." Ruke tried again. Ted turned slightly, and hiked an eyebrow, but refused to reply. "Okäy, I will let it be." Ruke turned back to the window, and both were silent for a moment. "What's Marsh up to? What did he tell you to do with me?" Ted asked unemotionally. Ruke faltered, his eyes widened, and his mouth opened. A moment later he spoke. "Thät wäs direct! Even for you." Ruke leaned away from the window to scrutinize Ted. "I don't have time to beat around the bush, and I've been around you enough to know if you're givin’ me a straight story." Ted turned briefly to observe Ruke, then pressed his nose to the window again. "You don't mind putting me on the spot, do yä?" Ruke slumped a little, feeling trapped. "Sorry, but it's important." "He thinks so too." Ruke leaned his shoulder against the wall and stared, trying to see into Ted's mind. "You wänt me to help you find Miles." Ruke answered his own question. "Yeah." Ted turned to face Ruke with a stern expression. "You gonna help me, or not?" "That äss älmos killed me. I wänt him too, bäd äs anyone män!" Ruke's accent slipped to full strength for a moment. "Whät äbout the others? We still ä Team." "What I have in mind is dangerous. I don't want anyone else at risk."

"How dangerous?" Ruke showed a mixture of excitement and concern. "Just getting close to that guy is dangerous, and I plan to get real close." Ted flashed a malicious grin. "You going to kill him?" Ruke asked knowing the reply would be negative, but needing to hear it aloud. Ted's grin broadened. "That's not my style, you know that. If he dies, it'll be by his own hand." Ted's expression sobered with his last comment. "I need your help to find him, and we'll need help to get to him." "Tanya or Paul?" Ruke asked. They were the only kinetic talents they had used so far. "Actually I think Rose could do it too, if it’s not too far away." Ted seemed to mull over the possibility as he stated it. "Rose?" Disbelief flowed from Ruke. "I would häve thought she would be the läst person you would wänt to use." "Yeah, But Paul's got his head all tied up with this money stuff. That makes using him risky for several reasons." Ruke interrupted. "Änd Tanya's too ethical, by the book, she couldn't keep it from Marsh." Ruke rubbed his chin. "I see the predicament. I'm not sure whät to tell you äbout Rose, She häs been confiding in Marsh since your dissension yesterday." He grimaced at Ted's forlorn expression. "If you häve it in you, I would suggest charming her into it." He bent at the knees to get a better look into Ted's eyes. "You sure she cän do it?" Ted looked up obviously considering the question. "Yeah, she can. With the improvements in the equipment she can, but will she? Especially if she knows she will be

sending us into danger." Ted sighed as he considered yet another hurdle in the path of his plan. "How are you going to keep Märsh from figuring out whät's going on?" Ruke asked, glad that he was being included for more than just locating their target. Ted's grin returned, and he pulled the chest out from under the desk, and removed the circuit card. "This is the new controller, I just finished it. Using this, I can set up a crude amplifier in about an hour and a half." "Marsh thinks you need a day or two ät least." Ruke offered. "That what he told you?" Ted grinned at Ruke's nod. "That old snake, I told him it would take four or five." Ruke returned the grin, and then dropped his gaze as he churned these new facts into the formula. His eyes lit up when it all came together. "We could do it tonight! We äre going tonight?" Ruke could see it in Ted's eyes. That was his plan. "Not much time to plän or prepare." "I've pretty much got a plan figured out. Except, how to convince Rose." Ted slumped back against the window, and gazed out at the park again. "Trouble is I'm not really sure I want her involved." "It will not work without her." "Yeah." Dejection shadowed Ted's answer. "And sooner or later Miles is going to find us. We have to get him first. I can't let anyone else get hurt." Ted's conviction was as solid as a knife, and it impressed and concerned Ruke "So, once we locate him, how do we händle him?" Ruke placed a sympathetic hand on

Ted's shoulder. Then he flashed a grin that revealed not only his confidence in Ted's plans, but his desire to be included in this one. Ted's face made a three-phase transformation, from discouraged to complacent, to devious. It delighted Ruke. "Not now, first we've got to get ready to recruit Rose." Ted looked around as if someone might be hiding somewhere. "Here's what I want you to do." He threw his arm over the big man's shoulders and put his mouth close to Ruke's ear. Cupping his hand around his mouth he whispered the first part of his plan. Ruke's eyes grew larger, and his grin broadened as the whispers continued.

Rose looked at the door in frustration, and anger. Anger at the door for being in her way, and frustration with herself for not being dexterous enough to open it without dropping any of the many packages she was carrying. She dropped to one knee and tried vainly to press the doorbell with her nose. "ARRGGG!" She growled in torment. She rested her head against the handrail, staring at the doorbell, and panting from her exertions. Her expression grew taut with concentration, and her breathing grew regular. Her recently improved Psychic control was taking over. She pushed with all the mental force she could muster. To her shock and delight the button moved and she immediately heard the chimes announcing her accomplishment. A broad, face-splitting smile overpowered her, and energy seemed to surge through her body. She found herself standing erect, and in complete control of her cumbersome burden before she had time to think about it. A moment later the door swung open and a squawk of astonishment emerged from within. "Que . . .?" Maria checked her native tongued response, and reached for the

top packages. "Let me help." After she had removed enough to see Rose's face she continued. "How far did you carry this load? Oh, never mind, come in and put them down. Here just set them on the table and rest your arms." "Thanks, does Angie have lunch ready yet?" Rose asked trying to control her enthusiasm over such a small thing as ringing a doorbell. She was sure Tanya could do that as a child, Paul too, probably. "Yes, she called us a minute ago. Can I help you with this . . . burden?" She swept her arm over the table. "Yes you can, thanks again." Rose separated one large bag filled with packages. "This goes to the office." A medium sized box slid over next to the bag, then another slightly smaller was stacked on top. "These go to the conference room." She grabbed another large sack of odds and ends, and separated it to the other side. Then she stacked the remaining boxes and bags in the center. "This," she said, placing a hand on top of the center stack, "goes up to Ted. I'll take that up in a minute." She picked up the sack she had pushed aside and bounded into Marsh's office, leaving Maria to determine, which of the two loads to deal with first. "Ah Sherrie, zo many packages. Could you use a pair of strong arms?" Paul stepped close to Maria's ear, and suggestively whispered his offer, reaching around her and flexing his arm to display his muscles. Maria Giggled. Paul had been flirting all morning, and she was amused and intrigued. "You could take this bag into the office for me." She requested as she flipped her head over her shoulder, and batted her lashes. Unfortunately she was several inches

taller than Paul. Her fluttering lashes, as aimed, flew right over his head. She quickly adjusted her stance and aim, and repeated the performance. Paul pumped his eyebrows knowingly, and snatched up the bag with one hand, and backed down the hall bowing as he withdrew. Mirth enveloped Maria and she picked up the two packages for the conference room. Her spirit aroused she scurried off to deliver them.

"Knock, knock." Rose called out as she entered Marsh's office through the open door. She kicked the door closed and deposited the sack on his desk. "It's all there, even the . . ." Marsh rapidly lifted a finger to his lips, cutting Rose off. "Thank you Rose." Rose's eyes grew large, and then she glanced at the ceiling, as though she might see Ted staring down through a peephole. She pointed up with a questioning look on her face. Marsh simply shrugged, but Rose instantly knew that he was not sure if Ted was listening or not, and he didn't think it worth risking. He leaned over the desk and whispered. "Are you ready?" Rose swallowed, then nodded and set her shoulders. "Yes." She offered with forced conviction that did not come through in her voice quite as she had hoped. "Good luck." Marsh whispered to her departing back. Table of Contents

Collusion Chapter 15

The door banged loudly as if someone had tried to knock it down. Both Ruke and Ted froze. Thoughts of Miles invading their new sanctuary tugged at Ted's mind. He looked at Ruke and saw an expression of surprised concern. An expression that was probably very like the one Ted wore on his own face. "Could someone open the door please? My arms are full." Rose's muffled voice issued through the door. Ruke and Ted relaxed from their tense postures. Ted was closer so he moved to get the door. "Remember, you'll have one hour." Ted whispered over his shoulder. "I häve the easy pärt, you häve to convince Rose." Ruke answered, flashing a chiding grin. Ted opened the door to find Rose holding a large platter loaded with food and utensils. She pushed the platter at Ted, and skipped down the steps as soon as he accepted it. "I'll be right back, I've got to get the drinks." She called back as she disappeared down the stairs. Ted turned to Ruke with a large grin on his face. "She's in a good mood, this may be easier than I thought." He set the platter on a workbench and pulled a couple of chairs up.

"I would not be so cocky. She's very perceptive, änd probably suspicious. She häs been consorting with Marsh you know." Ruke pulled his own chair over and started to sort through the items on the platter. Ted sobered slightly at Ruke's prompting. "Still she is in a good mood." Ted decided not to obsess, at least not until after he had eaten. The pressing problem of the moment was to make sure he got his share of lunch. "Hey, there's only three of those." He scolded, snatching an egg roll from Ruke's plate. "You guys are going to leave something for me, aren't you?" Rose leaned against the doorjamb in an alluring pose, with a six-pack of beer dangling from her finger. "Beer!" They chorused leaping up pulling her chair aside, and bowing as if she were royalty. "Whät a woman!" Ruke added jokingly, eyeing the beer. "An angel." Ted crooned with mooning eyes, and then suddenly shifted perspective. "You tryin’ to get us drunk and take advantage?" Ruke stopped cold upon hearing Ted's remark, and silently mouthed the word 'what'. Rose lifted her chin and stared down her nose at Ted. "Do you have a problem with that?" Her tone was stolid, but her attempt at a stoic face was already cracking with a grin. Directly they all broke into laughter, and grabbed for food. "Hey what happened to the Pastrami?" Ted badgered between bites, but not slowing for her answer. Rose eyed the two of them, and timed her comment carefully, catching both with their mouths full. "You're going after him, aren't you, both of you? You've got some sort of plan, and you're going after him." She sat back and studied their expressions diligently.

They had stopped chewing, and looked from each other to Rose and. Ruke chomped twice on the remaining food in his mouth and swallowed laboriously. "So much for plän 'A'." He muttered softly. Ted worked on his mouthful, more slowly, trying to buy himself a few moments to think. He stared deeply into Rose's eyes, searching for the clue that would reveal her thoughts. Rose smirked at his staring, knowing he was trying to read her mind. "Try me, if you really do have a plan I might be persuaded to help." She sat back in satisfaction. She had him on the string for a change. She still had not decided whether to back Ted or Marsh though, and her moment of decision was close at hand. Ted stopped chewing again to adsorb Rose's comments. He finally swallowed. "I hope you never stop surprising me." He reached over and cradled her hand in his and gave it a subtle squeeze. "I was afraid Marsh had you all sewn up." She squeezed back, and then leaned very close, their noses almost touching. "Actually I think Marsh is right." Ruke choked on the sip of beer he had just taken, spraying part of it out onto his lap. Then he went into a subdued coughing fit. Rose and Ted merely glanced at him then continued. "But I haven't heard your side, yet." Ted straightened and leaned back slightly to get the full picture of her face. "You okay?" He asked Ruke without looking at him. Ruke glanced back and forth between Rose and Ted, and then nodded. "Okay." He announced between stifled coughs, but he sounded unsure. "I want to put Miles away for good, but I don't want the other's involved." Ted conceded. "I . . ."

"Don't you think they have the right to see him go down? To help put him down?" Rose interrupted indignantly. Ted was surprised by her track. He hadn't expected this attitude. He knew she was right, though. "It's too dangerous, I just . . ." Again Rose cut him off. "What happens to everybody if you lose your little skirmish? You think Miles will be satisfied with you? You think he'll just let everyone else go their merry way? We all know about him, and we know about the amplifier!" Rose pulled her hand away and crossed her arms indignantly. Ted looked to Ruke for support, but he simply shrugged. For a moment Ted felt lost, bowled over by Rose's irrefutable logic, but only for a moment. "Well, I guess we better not fail." He answered setting his chin with pride. “Your plan better be good." Rose taunted, steering him toward a more productive dialogue, and realizing she had picked her side. Ted realized it too. "Hey, with the three of us, we can't fail!" Ted stood threw his right hand, palm out, above his head, and waited for the others to join him. A compelling flame burned in each of them. It was more than revenge. It also involved survival, and a camaraderie that had been building in them for some time. Ruke and Rose jumped up, and joined their hands to Ted's in a bond of loyalty and commitment. Their energetic responses made Ted swell with pride and optimism.

"I will find him!" Ruke growled with determination. His face was damp with perspiration, showing his weariness from the search. He closed his eyes again and

concentrated, feeling with his electronically enhanced senses. "I will find you." He grunted to himself. Ted heard Ruke's uttered commitment, but decided it was best to leave him to his task. They had been searching for Miles for over an hour. They had long ago eliminated the possibility of him being in the city. In fact they had covered most of the state, but the elusive villain had set up shop somewhere beyond. Ted could feel his plan dissolving in despair. Rose walked up behind Ted, and gently interlaced her fingers with his, then leaned against his back. Holding her head beside his, she pushed her lips to his ear. "We're going to have to go down stairs in a few minutes. Otherwise, they'll send someone up." She nuzzled her nose into his bare neck in sympathy to his frustration, wishing she could do more. He leaned back into her, grateful for her support. He squeezed her fingers, and silently nodded his understanding, his eyes never leaving the monitor. "I'll go down and tell them you're working on something critical. Maybe I can buy you a few extra minutes." She whispered again, keeping her voice down so she would not disturb Ruke. "Thanks." He did a quick turning move and planted a brief peck on her cheek, and was immediately reabsorbed with monitoring Ruke's efforts. Rose faded toward the door watching the two of them hunt their foe. Uncertainty tugged at her consciousness. Were they right to try taking on Miles by themselves? She closed the door and trudged down the stairs. Her mind preoccupied with thoughts of how that encounter would go.

Marsh was rounding the laundry room door at the base of the narrow steps, also absorbed in thought. They collided before either realized the other was there. Marsh recoiled a half step, more from surprise than the force of the impact. Rose, however, bounced off his chest and landed sprawled across the steps, with a shocked and mystified look on her face. "Oh, hell, are you hurt? I'm sorry!" Marsh blurted recovering from the shock first. She looked up instantly recognizing the need to Keep Marsh from interrupting Ted and Ruke. "Owwwww! My ankle. Owwwwww!" She closed her eyes faking a twisted ankle, and then peeked through her grimace to see his reaction. "Damn, I'm sorry. Let me help you up." He reached, grabbed her arm, and pulled her to her feet. "Owwwww!" This time her moan was real. Her hands shot back to rub her fanny. It throbbed intensely from smashing into the steps. Then she remembered the ankle, and started to drop, as if it would not support her. "Owwww!" She faked again as Marsh caught her. "I better help you down to see Ben." Marsh comforted, but there was a note of annoyance in his voice. He crouched at her side and settled her arm over his shoulder to help her walk. Rose smiled to herself, enjoying her pretense, then quickly grimaced again when Marsh glanced at her face. The grimace came easily as she rubbed her behind again. They hobbled their way to her room. Marsh lowered her to her bed, but as soon as she felt pressure on her bottom she startled Marsh by clawing her way up his arm. "Owwwww! I can't sit." She squealed bitterly.

Marsh was flustered. He was not sure how to handle her. She could not stand or sit. "Try going down on your side." He offered in a slightly shaky voice. He lowered her again, more slowly this time. She grimaced again, but managed to find a tolerable position lying on her side. Marsh grabbed the phone and pushed the intercom button. "Yes?" Terra answered. "This is Marsh. Would you send Ben up to Rose's room, Please?" He hung up the phone before she could question him, and turned to Rose. "Ben will be here in a moment. Are you going to be okay?" He seemed impatient and a little embarrassed. Rose knew she had to keep him there, but she thought she had used the injury as much as she could. "If you were . . . owww. If you were going to see Ted, he's . . . owww. He and Ruke are calibrating part of the new amplifier. Said he'd be down as soon as they were done." He leaned in and whispered. "What are they really up to?" Rose flushed. She had hoped not to have to deal with that yet. "They're . . ." "Oh my gosh. What has happened?" Ben cut her off in the nick of time. He rushed into the room and dropped to his knees beside the bed. "She hurt her ankle." Marsh offered, obviously not pleased with the situation. Ben immediately started probing her ankle with his fingers. "The other ankle." Marsh blurted. Ben moved to her other ankle, and started probing again. A moment later he moved back to the first one. "There is pain, but it is not here." Ben stated quizzically pointing to her ankles with an open hand and looking at Marsh. Marsh smiled. "She hurt her butt too."

"Ohhhh! Please roll over so that I can observe the offended area." Ben stated to Rose. "No!" She rolled away from Ben, but the pressure caused her to quickly roll back. "No!" She repeated, but regret for her sudden, and painful, movement softened her retort. "Tsk, tsk, tsk. I cannot help if you will not let me." Ben intoned, looking a little hurt. Marsh stood erect with his arms crossed over his chest, a commanding figure. "Now, now, if you're really hurt you need to take your medicine young lady." He chided. "I'll be all right, just leave me alone." Rose pouted, and turned her face into her pillow. She listened intently as they left, and sighed with relief when she heard them go down stairs instead of up to check on Ted. 'I hope he appreciates what I go through for him.' Her embarrassment made her bury her face even deeper into her pillow.

Ted rapped lightly on the door, and then entered without waiting for a reply. "You ready to get some dinner?" A puzzled look crept over his face as he watched Rose struggle out of her bed. "What happened to you?" "I ran into Marsh, literally." She grumbled. "You okay?" He unsuccessfully fought back a smile. "I'll be okay." She snatched the pillow off her bed for extra padding at the dinner table. "Don't laugh." She warned, but her serious demeanor had already wiped the amusement from his face. When she reached the door, she turned to Ted. "How's Ruke?" "Fine, he's taking a shower, he'll be down in a minute." Ted answered blandly, not giving Rose a clue as to the results of their search.

"Did ya find him?" Rose pressed sounding a little annoyed. Ted let his smile grow slowly. "Yeah, we found the sly bastard. He's in Lovelock." Rose rolled her eyes, as if they should have guessed. "So we're on for tonight?" Ted nodded, then held the door open and gently pushed Rose out in front of him. "But, first we eat."

"Dämn, I knew something häd to go wrong." Ruke shook his head in frustration. He and Ted had eventually managed to secretly return to the workshop. Ruke set himself to verify Miles' location. Only to find he was no longer there. Ruke was having no luck relocating their adversary, and his patience was wearing thin. "Whät do we do now?" Ruke's disappointment pervaded the room. "It took hours to find him the first time, änd he's häd over three hours to . . ." Ted held up his hand forestalling Ruke. "Actually," he intervened with a note of optimism, "he could be coming to us." He stepped over to the map of California that was tacked to the wall and pointed. "Try highway Eighty, Start here and work toward Nevada. That would sure make it easier on Rose, I was worried about her having to lift us that far." "Okay, thät makes sense." Ruke resigned, allowing a little hope to tint his voice. He studied the map for a moment, then laid back, closed his eyes and stretched out with his enhanced senses again, looking for Miles.

Moments later Rose quietly let herself in, and walked up to Ted giving him a light kiss on the cheek. "What's up?" She whispered looking over his shoulder at the monitor, then at Ruke, who looked more like he was daydreaming than concentrating. "Miles wasn't there, he hadn't gone to town either. We're lookin’ for him now." Ted whispered back to her, but his attention was again fixated on his monitor. "Think he's comin’ back?" She playfully allowed her lips to touch his ear as she asked. He jerked his head involuntarily, but otherwise ignored her antics. "Yeah, we're checkin’ Highway Eighty now." "How long do you think it'll take to find him?" This time she tugged tenderly at his earlobe with her teeth. He stepped away breaking contact. "Hard to say." He sounded a little annoyed, but his eyes never left the screen. She eased up behind him again and rubbed herself suggestively against his back, and made a sound that was a cross between a purr and a moan. "Arrrg!" Ted whipped around, seized her, and bent her backward, taking her breath away. He kissed her lips, full and hard. But the passion lasted only a moment or two, then he let her go and returned to his readouts. She stumbled back catching her balance, and her breath, her eyes wide with surprise. Her face grew stern and displeased, that wasn't exactly what she had in mind. She doubled her fist and brought it up at his back, then looked at her fist, then at him, then back at her fist. She shook her head and dropped her hands to her side with a smirk on her face, and admitted to herself that it was her own fault, ‘bad timing.’

"Got him!" Ruke announced. "He's already in the city, heading this way." Ruke frowned. "He's not älone." He paused, and seemed to strain. "There äre four others with him." "Well, we knew the job was dangerous when we took it." Ted snickered. Ruke opened his eyes and stared at Ted disapprovingly, obviously not appreciating the satire. "Why don't you two go get ä room? I think I'd do better without your äntics." Ted had turned suddenly whimsical. "With less than an hour we'd just be getting’ started." Ted's jest turned Rose bright red, and she bowed her head to hide her discomfort. Ruke shook his head, dismissing the subject, and closed his eyes again to regain contact with their quarry. "I think I'll go and round up some refreshments." Rose uttered, slipping out the door to escape her embarrassment.

It was almost midnight when they decided Miles had reached his destination, and it was alarmingly close. Ted handed Ruke a beer and sent him to his room to rest for half an hour while he prepared everything for their unannounced visitation on Miles. Rose had been quiet since her return. "Are you sure you're ready," she fixed him firmly with her eyes, "and you know what you're doing?" He glared back only for a moment then smiled and relaxed. "If I knew nothing could go wrong, I wouldn't bother doing it myself. I'm going because I don't want anyone else to get hurt."

Rose tried to interrupt him, but he continued. "And if I didn't think I could do it, I'd be workin’ on somethin’ better." He put his hand on her shoulder and looked at her with an expression of commitment. "We've got to catch him before he kills someone else." Ted momentarily withdrew into memories of Bill. Rose looked down forlornly. They had already covered all this, but it had not soothed her concern. "Okay." She submitted. "I guess I better practice a little before the real thing." "Atta girl!" Ted guided her to the chair, and set up the equipment. "All right, that little car up the street. Pick it up, turn it around, and set it back down." Ted directed in a matter-of-fact way. "You realize the biggest thing I've moved till now is an empty chair?" Rose reminded. "Welcome to the big time sweetheart." Ted replied doing his best Bogart impersonation.

Ruke stepped through the door to find Rose in the amplifier seat with Ted leaning over her. They were nose-to-nose, silently absorbed in each other. He cleared his throat, but still went unnoticed. He stepped closer and cleared it again. Ted turned and smiled. "Ruke, back already?" He responded nonchalantly. Rose shrank coyly into the seat, allowing a minuscule amount of embarrassment to show. Ted noticed, but threw his shoulders back to recompose. "It is time." Ruke replied pointing to his watch. He was not sure how to react to Ted and Rose's behavior. It seemed a little strange, even for them.

Ted looked over at the computer and noted the time displayed on the corner of the screen. "So it is." He sounded genuinely surprised. "Time flies when you're havin’ fun." He winked at Rose. She shrank back a little more, but managed to smile at his comment anyway. Ruke cleared his throat again in an attempt to get Ted back on track. "How did Rose do on the practice?" Ruke asked hoping to get things moving. Rose swelled with pride, forgetting her coyness. "I flew a car over the park!" Selfesteem poured out in her voice. "She'll do." Ted replied. Rose assumed a defiant posture. "I did good!" "What about the flat tire?" Ted asked in a sobering tone. Ruke jumped to the window and squinted down at the car. It definitely sat with a tilt. "Thät could hurt män!" He stated confronting Rose. "It wasn't my fault. He tickled me." Rose reddened with her testimony. Ruke wheeled to face Ted with an accusing expression. "You téckled her?" Ted's wolfish grin only made their staring more intent. "I was testing her concentration." After a moment of silence Ruke erupted in laughter, which he quickly stifled, not wanting to alert the entire household to their clandestine project. Immediately Ted and Rose joined in for a soft chuckle. The mirth eventually abated, and they all turned serious. "It is time." Ruke repeated. Ted walked over to another map, one of the city, and pointed. "That's the target Rose."

Rose moved quickly over to the map. Her mouth opened wide in astonishment. She looked at both men in silent horror, then put her finger on the map where Ted's had been. "Here?" She looked at Ted then Ruke again, but they were stony faced. Her finger was directly opposite the park from their location. "He must know where we are!" She turned pleading eyes to Ted, no longer sure of herself. He was so close, too close. "Yeah! And we better not waste any more time. If he knows where we are, we don't have any to waste!" Ted insisted moving back to the equipment, leaving Rose to face her doubts alone. He glanced back to find her eyes staring off into space as the terror of the night the mansion was bombed flooded her mind. He moved quickly seating Ruke by the amplifier. "You okay?" He called over to Rose, but she merely nodded. He flipped a switch and pointed to Ruke. "He is still there." Ruke eventually reassured. Ted sighed, then jumped to Rose's side. "He's still there." Ted whispered. "You going to be okay?" He asked again. She shook off her anxiety. "Yeah, I'll be okay. I just need something to keep my brain occupied." She steadied herself and moved over to take Ruke's place in the chair. Ted was relieved to see her conviction return. He pulled out a drawer at his desk and removed three small transceivers. He handed one to Ruke, who quickly shoved it in a pocket as he walked to the far corner of the room to retrieve his satchel. Ted deposited a radio in his own pocket, and put on the attached headset. The third unit he stood on top of the amplifier case facing Rose, then he put its headset on her. She looked up at him with a mixture of confusion and relief. He held up his hand stopping her before she could ask. When he saw she had resigned herself to wait for his next move he turned and walked to

the other end of the room. He crouched in the corner with his back to her and whispered as softly as he could. She could hear him as clearly as if his lips had been right next to her ear, actually, it was even louder. "Hey there green eyes, does your daddy know you're out tonight?" He returned wearing his infamous devilish grin, and was pleased to see her smiling in reply. "Nice touch Mister Bond." Rose chided. Ted raised his eyebrows. "You know you're the only one for me Moneypenny." Then he turned to Ruke, who had just finished putting on a double shoulder holster. He was caring two forty-fives, one under each arm. Ted turned instantly serious. "What else you got in that case?" Rose gasped when she noticed the weapons. She was normally adamantly against firearms, but she knew they needed something in case things went wrong with the plan. She leaned over to look into the case, and couldn't stop a second gasp. Ted and Ruke ignored Rose's response to the arsenal Ruke had prepared. Ruke pulled out another shoulder harness, a single, and passed it to Ted. After Ted fumbled with the straps for a moment Ruke took it back and helped him slip into it properly. Then Ruke pulled the long barrel twenty-two from the holster. "Here is the safety lever. Hold it like this. Flip the lever with your thumb, like this, then every time you pull the trigger it fires. You got twelve shots." Ruke exaggerated putting the safety on. "Leave, the, säfety, on!" He announced each word clearly and distinctly, and then he handed the weapon back to Ted.

Ted received it with respect and placed it back in the holster snapping down the safety strap so the gun couldn’t fall out. "What's that for?" Ted carried a note of disapproval in his voice. Ruke looked down at the Uzi that was still laying in the case. He looked up with a stern and somewhat disappointed expression. "Thät," he shrugged, "is not going." He bent down and latched the case, then carried it back to the corner. Ted stepped over to the map again and motioned Rose to join him. She slipped off the headset, climbed out of the chair, and stepped over to the map also. "He's in here, with at least three others. I want you to put us down here." "I thought you'd want me to put you down in the park?" She questioned in surprise. Ted stepped back and tensed slightly. "Well, I think in the middle of the street would be safer." He stammered a little. "Ah, you, ahhh . . . You did almost hit that tree when you were practicing with the car." "What, you mumm, ahm, mmrh, mmm . . ." Rose protested. Ted quickly clamped his hand over her mouth, muffling the rest of her complaint. "You'll wake somebody." She relaxed and he removed his hand. "Sorry Babe, but we just can't take any chances." Ted wanted to say more, but he was afraid he would only upset her more. "It was your fault, I could have done it if you hadn't interfered." Rose muttered, with a look of genuine anguish. Ted opened his mouth to apologize, but before he could speak Rose cut him off. "Just go." She said turning her head away from him.

Ruke had already opened the window and stepped out onto the roof. Ted turned to follow, completely disappointed with himself for upsetting Rose. He stepped up to the window with his head hung low. "Be careful, please!" She called almost apologetically, feeling guilty for allowing herself to become flustered so easily. Standing on the edge of the roof Ted looked at Ruke and received a nod. He turned to Rose and nodded his readiness through the window. A moment later their feet lifted from the roof and they floated out over the park, each holding a handle on either side of a small chest. The park floated under them in the darkness. Ted remembered the night he and Rose had embraced each other below that dark canopy, but there was no time for love or lust or daydreams. They were on a mission, and that was where his mind needed to be. The eerie feeling of floating with no support was virtually ignored by the men as they prepared themselves for what lay ahead. Table of Contents

Confrontation Chapter 16

"You get the car I'll get the panel." Ted whispered into the microphone. "Are any of them outside?" He and Ruke crouched next to a large shrub. They were two houses up the street from their target. Both were dressed entirely in black, and Ted wore a black nylon stocking over his head. In the darkness they were virtually invisible. Ted was carefully opening the chest they had brought. He looked up after his question to see Ruke straining in concentration. He felt glad he was a technician, and not a talent, what they did often looked painful. "I do not think so." Ruke relaxed looking as if a thorn had finally been removed. "It is much härder to tell without the ämplifier. A portable one would be very practical." Ted grunted, not wishing to address that subject. "Here." He handed Ruke a spool of cable, a small can of penetrating oil, a large wrench, and a large tube of glue. "Make sure and use the oil first." Ruke nodded, then crawled across the next yard and up to another bush, carefully reconnoitering the area before he continued across the next yard and up to the automobile. Ted could see him freeze for a moment. He knew Ruke was scanning with his sixth sense, and hoping the closer range would make it more effective. Ted moved out as soon as Ruke waved him on. He stopped beside Ruke for a second and gave him a thumbs-up. Ruke returned the gesture, and Ted disappeared around the side of the house.

Ted found the electrical panel, and carefully looked it over with a small penlight. Fortunately this was an older house, and had an exposed fuse box, instead of one that was built into the wall. The door to the power panel was slightly ajar. Ted peered through the cracks, and found a tiny trip switch had been set inside. If he had opened the door, it would have set off an alarm. Miles certainly was not taking any chances. It was easy enough to deal with, though. He pulled out a hacksaw blade from the small pack he had removed from the chest. He was just about to slide it into the door, when he heard Ruke's voice in the earpiece. He instantly froze. "Someone's coming." Ruke whispered as he slid under the car. It was a tight fit, and he had to exhale to make it. Ted had forgotten to look for a place to hide. He pivoted frantically looking for an escape. Jim had stepped so silently out onto the porch that Ruke had not heard him, but Howard tripped over the threshold and stumbled into him. He lurched forward with a quiet oomph. Jim turned and raised his fist threateningly, then shook it in front of Howard's face. He wanted to scream at his partner, but that would ruin everything, they were supposed to sneak up on anyone that might be snooping while the boss slept. Howard shrugged, and Jim slowly relaxed and silently turned to complete their mission. Jim held a large flashlight in his left hand, and as he approached the corner of the building his right hand retrieved a pistol from under his coat. He held the gun up next to the light and jumped around the corner, switching on the light and pointing it along the wall.

Howard poked his head around the corner, and then grinned at Jim. "Oooh! Just like on TV" He whispered mockingly. "Shut up idiot!" Jim moved the light around the space between the houses, and then advanced toward the power panel. He carefully checked all around the panel with the light. Checking for any signs of tampering. Howard ambled along behind, behaving as though he was on an afternoon stroll, instead of a security patrol. Finding nothing, Jim switched off the light and headed back around the front of the house to check the other side. He turned to Howard as he passed. "I don't know why I put up with you." Howard looked hurt, but said nothing, and followed his partner dutifully. A few minutes later they were back inside raiding the refrigerator. Ruke exhaled and slowly slid out from under the car. "All clear, gläd you found a place to hide." He whispered into his microphone. "Phew! Me too." He answered as he crawled out from under the house. Ted had just managed to dive through the open access door that led to the crawl space beneath the neighboring house as the light flashed by. He could hardly believe he had not been heard, or that the door had been open. He had held his breath the entire time. "What happened? Are you all right? They didn't catch you, did they?" Rose questioned frantically. "We’re okay," Was the only reply she heard. Ted moved back to the power box and started to insert the hacksaw blade again. He eased it between the door and the alarm switch, and then pulled the end of the blade out the other side. He tore off two pieces of tape and taped the ends against the wall. Next he gently pulled the door open. He held the small penlight in his mouth, and nodded

appreciatively at the small and efficient security device. Then smiled around the handle of the light, the old fuse box would be simple to rig. A while later he crawled over to Ruke who was already back at the chest, two houses away. He put his pack back in the chest. Ruke's tools had already been stowed. He sealed the chest. "Okay Rose, take it away." He whispered. The chest almost immediately lifted and vanished into the darkness. Ted leaned over to peer around the shrub. All was dark and quiet. He turned back to Ruke and wrapped his hand around his microphone, so Rose would not hear, and motioned Ruke to do the same. "That was too close. Half a second less warning and they'd of had me." "Thänk Miles." Ruke grinned, his white teeth shining out of the darkness. "If he häd hired some real security people," he paused and grinned even wider, "they would häve caught us both." The teeth winked out reminding Ted of the Cheshire cat from Alice In Wonderland. " "Damn! Uh-oh." They heard on their earphones. Ted and Ruke dropped their hands from their microphones. "What happened?" Ted asked upon hearing Rose's exclamation. Rose stammered for a moment, sounding as if she were not sure what to say. Then she gathered herself and started her explanation. "I dropped the chest." She continued before they could interrupt. "On the roof." "Think it woke anyone?" Ted was only slightly concerned. "Ahhh, Actually it was Marsh coming through the door that caused me to drop it." Her voice quavered a little, and they realized she was talking in front of him. "I think I'm going to have to explain what we're up to."

"That's okay. Don't worry about it. I was just about to make the call anyway. You go ahead and fill him in. Soon as I get off the line I'll let you know, and you can make the other call. Don't sweat it, Rose, it's not a problem." Ted encouraged, hoping she would keep her cool. "Well, uh, those two Federal agents just followed him in. Does that make a difference?" Rose's voice quavered again. "Uhhh, Yep. That makes a difference. I don't suppose anyone's smiling?" Ted bantered. "No, they’re not." Her voice was taut but focused. "Go ahead and tell them where we are, and what we are doing. We're going to need their help in a little while anyway." Ted advised, and then added almost to himself. "I need some time to think, figure out the changes in the plan. It’ll still work. I'll get back to ya in a minute." The last words had rattled out without emotion, as Ted was already deep in thought. Then his eyes opened as he thought of something important. "Can they hear me?" "No." Rose reassured in a questioning tone. "Good, don't tell them about the equipment. We never tell anyone about the equipment." All Ted's attention focused on his earphone. "Okay," she answered with an inflection that let Ted know that she understood. "Talk to ya in a few." Ted knew these new complications weren't that serious. He had only one major problem to worry about, the van. Rose was supposed to fly it over, and now she would not be able to do anything involving the amplifier as long as the others were there.

"Gentlemen, have a seat, I have a little explaining to do." Rose addressed Marsh and the two agents. "Rose, you, ah?" Marsh started, but was not sure what to say in front of the agents. "Are they all right?" He submitted finally, but his eyes let her know he was disappointed in her betrayal of his trust. "For the moment. Please sit down and listen." Rose spoke more calmly than she felt. At any moment the whole situation could fall apart, and she could think of only two options if it did. One was to pull Ted and Ruke out of danger. In which case the agents probably would get a good idea of what the equipment did, or two, she could use what Ted had called the chicken switch. He had not explained exactly what it did. He had just said to use it if she felt she could not handle the situation. The two agents glanced at each other then stepped over, grabbed chairs, and placed them close in front of Rose. They sat with intense expressions, hoping that they would finally get some answers. Marsh was a bit slower to find his seat. His entire demeanor seemed unsure. How much was she going to tell? She couldn't let them know about the amplifier! He bored into her eyes, hoping to convey his concern with his expression. "Relax Marsh." Rose commented feeling his tension, and he did relax, somewhat. "Ted and Ruke are out setting up an ambush for Miles." She blurted dropping the whole kettle in their laps.

Marsh, who had just started to relax, tensed every muscle in his body, except his jaw, which dropped wide open. He snapped it shut again, and stared with bewildered eyes. The junior agent stood rapidly, and then realized he lacked a response. He was relieved when the other agent pulled him down by the sleeve. The senior agent started speaking in a level, mannerly, but forceful tone. "Do you know where Agent Cranford is?" "Yes, of course. How else could we set up an ambush?" Rose answered in a matter-of-fact way, becoming more confident in her emotional control. "And we're sure he knows where we are, too." Marsh's expression turned shocked again as his jaw dropped once more. "What makes you think he knows where you are Mam?" The agent continued to maintain his composure, while his partner swiveled his head back and forth between his associate and Rose, looking even less composed than Marsh. Rose couldn't help smiling at their reactions. "He arrived in a house, directly across the park from here, this evening. He's not more than a mile or so from us now." She achieved a level of control that matched the questioning agent. The agent was leaning forward, and on the edge of his seat. So was Rose. He settled back nonchalantly, and Rose matched his nonchalance settling back also. There was a quiet moment as they sized each other up. The junior agent and Marsh forcibly relaxed themselves, and wordlessly awaited the next bomb. The senior agent broke their silent gauging. "Why did you decide to take the law into your own hands?" He asked expecting to ruffle Rose with the question.

"Because it seemed obvious that you were either unwilling or unable to do your job." The partner jumped to his feet again, but Rose stopped him with cold condemning eyes. She turned back to the other man, who pulled his partner back down again without ever taking his eyes off Rose. "Miles is a threat to us. We cannot afford to have him stalking us." She found herself tense again, and tried to relax, but she was only partially successful. "If you can't catch him, we will." She folded her arms in front of her and leaned all the way back into her chair. This time the agent matched her move, and he smugly answered. "We already caught him." "And you let him get away!?" Rose nearly stood. "We had nothing to hold him on. You," The agent glanced at Marsh, "refused to press charges." "That thing with Midstate Insurance should have been enough to lock him up." Marsh thundered. "We have no jurisdiction in that case." He spoke to Rose, barely paying any attention to Marsh. "You're telling me that you just let him go instead of turning him over to the state?" Marsh mocked in an unbelieving tone. "He escaped before we could turn him over." The senior agent said out of the side of his mouth to Marsh, but he still faced Rose. "That was why we came here tonight. We wanted to inform you that he was still at large, and that we needed more evidence if we

were to arrest him on federal charges!" His voice had risen consistently, and he rose slowly as he spoke to end up leaning over Rose and nearly shouting. At this point Marsh stood and bumped his shoulder menacingly in front of the agent. With his considerable size advantage Marsh successfully cowed the man. This reduced the effect the agent’s maneuver had on Rose. "Maybe obtaining the evidence is your job!" Marsh's harassing words hammered the man back. Then the other agent was up and into it, and the scene was threatening to turn physical. "Gentlemen, we don’t have time for a pissing match!" Rose exclaimed, threatening their egos. They broke off momentarily to look at her. "I think we need to discuss Ted's plan. It could supply the evidence and the criminal, and solve all our problems." That seized their attentions. "Should I continue, or do you boys want to exchange blows first?" The three men backed away from each other slowly, and resumed their seats. Rose continued, feeling a momentary triumph. "If you will cooperate, you can have the arrest instead of the police. Are you interested?" "Please continue," Was the agents' subdued answer. Rose smiled in a friendly but confident manner. "Ted are you still there?" She asked into the microphone, but there was no reply. "We'll have to wait a moment till he gets back to us. Meanwhile, I'll te . . ." The earphone chirped then Ted's voice erupted in her ear. The other's couldn't hear the radio, and were momentarily mystified by her sudden stop. Eventually the empty look on her face made them aware that she was listening to Ted.

"Rose, You've got to find a way to get the van over here for Ruke. I don't care how you get rid of those guys, but . . ." He did not have a suggestion, and just let his voice trail off. "Ted," Rose answered, "I think I have a solution. What if I get Marsh and the agents to drive it over, then they could wait in the shadows while you carry out your little trap?" There were a few seconds of silence as Ted conferred with Ruke. "Yeah, that would work, if you could get them going right now. The longer we wait the more likely we'll be discovered, besides we're freezing our buns off out here." Ted's request sounded as though it came through genuinely chattering teeth. "I'll check." She looked up. "Can you leave now?" She asked. Marsh gave a quick nod. The other two conferred silently, communicating only with their eyes. "I hope you know what you're doing. That man has more financial and political backing than you can imagine. You should have seen the hell they put us through for bringing him in the first time." The senior agent cautioned. "They're on their way, I'll tell them to hurry." Rose informed Ted. She could see the light of a happy ending at the end of this adventure’s tunnel. Then her smile slipped a little as she cautioned herself that there were still many things that could go wrong. "Pppplease hhhurry, ththththanks." Ted stuttered in the cold. This time Rose new it was just an act and she climbed out of her chair, grasped the radio, walked over to the wall map, and pointed out Ted's location. "The keys are in the van." Rose said to Marsh. "Please hurry. They're freezing and in danger of being discovered."

Marsh only scowled at her, reminding her that he had trusted her to keep him informed. The scowl depressed her. Perhaps she should have kept him informed. She felt her loyalties being torn at the seams. Marsh saw the shift of emotions in her eyes. "I understand." He offered gruffly then abruptly pivoted and disappeared through the door, closely followed by the agents. "They should be there in a few minutes." Rose informed Ted, her despair coming through to Ted. "Thanks Babe." Ted answered with concern. "Why don't you sit back, get comfortable, and push the chicken switch." "I thought that was just for an emergency." Rose sounded slightly testy. The humor in Ted's voice hit her right between the eyes. "Naw, it's just to get help, and you sound like you could use a little help right now." "What kind of help?" Rose sounded skeptical. "You'll see, just push the button." Rose decided there was nothing left to do but push the button and see what happened. "Now what?" "If my figurin's right, I'd say you'll have to wait about thirty seconds, maybe a minute." Ted was obviously enjoying taunting Rose. "So what did that button do, turn on your coffee maker?" Rose jeered. "Oh, It should be a little better than that." "Coffee with whale songs in the background?" She spat a little too derisively, and immediately regretted it.

"Ouch! Hey I'll have you know I take better care of my girl than that." Ted offered affectionately. That one came out of the blue, she would have been better prepared for another taunt. She found herself wiping a little tear out of the corner of her eye. Then she chastised herself for being emotional when she had to be ready to help at any moment. Ted could only stand the silence for so long. "Well any second now there should be a tapping at the door." And almost as soon as he had said it there was. "Hello, Rose, care for coffee and some company?" Ann's voice lilted through the door. Rose jumped up, and flew to the door. She opened it quickly. "Come in, come in. Oh I'm glad you're here." The coffee was wonderful, but the companionship was God sent. No, it was Ted sent. She felt another tear at her eye.

"Whät was thät button for? Thät chicken switch." Ruke asked looking a little puzzled. "I told Ann I'd hook up a light to a switch, if it went on, she was needed upstairs immediately." Ted's answer sounded leading. Ruke decided if there was more he might as well hear it. "Whät if she wäs äsleep?" Ted grinned, pleased that he would get to finish the explanation. "I didn't even put the light in her room. It's in the kitchen." "The kitchen?" Ruke sneered in disbelief.

"Hey, you know how she always knows everything in advance, well, I figured she'd already have the coffee brewed by the time the light went on." Ted flashed his knowing grin and nodded. "I was right." Ruke shook his head at the perfect sense Ted had managed to make out of nonsense. He wondered if he would ever learn not to underestimate his friend.

Ruke stepped out into the street and waved the van over to the curb. He opened the drivers' door and motioned for Marsh to climb out. He stuck his head inside. "Come with me gentlemen, I'll show you where you watch from." He closed the door softly and walked away. The agents had to hurry to keep from losing him in the dark. The senior agent grabbed Ruke's arm when he caught up and turned him around to bring them face-to-face. "What are those for?" He asked dropping his eyes to the fortyfives under Ruke's arms. Ruke ripped his arm lose from the grip. "They're for shooting people!" His menacing demeanor jarred the agent. Ruke pulled himself up and stared down into the other man's eyes. "Bäd people." He added with a glance at the agent's shoulder holster. "Don't worry, I don't plän to use them, unless someone starts shooting ät me first." Ruke turned away with a huge grin on his face and walked over to a row of bushes that were pruned to chest height, and pointed down and across the street. "Ständ here änd watch there." Then he turned and started to walk back to the van. The junior agent stepped in front of him. "So, we just sit here and watch?" Ruke grinned baring his pearly white teeth ominously. "You'll know when to get involved." He stepped around the smaller man and was gone.

"What was that supposed to mean?" the junior agent asked his partner. His partner shook his head. "Just watch and wait. That's what we do most of the time anyway, watch and wait." They did not have to wait long. Ruke careened around the corner, and slid to a screeching stop in front of the house that Miles occupied. Ted stepped out of the darkness and onto the lawn between the house and the van. "Miles." He shouted. "Miles Cranford, I've come for you." He shouted again. Lights started coming on all over the block. "Come out Miles, this is between you and me. Just between you and me." "What's he doing?" The junior agent demanded. "He's offering himself as bait." Marsh answered, saying it as he figured it out himself. "He's been agonizing over Miles ever since the bombing. He figures it's all his fault." "Technician. How kind of you to save me the trouble of coming after you." The voice carried through the front door screen. It was loud enough for Ted to hear but no one else. Ted remembered that voice, and he fought to control the boiling anger inside him that it kindled. "I can't let anyone else get hurt, this is between you and me." Ted's voice was controlled, but it still oozed with rage. "Wrong Technician!" Miles barked flinging the screen open he stepping onto the porch. "I am just an agent. I have my orders. I am to deliver you, not make deals with you. If you are fortunate, you may make some sort of deal with my superior." He spat the word. He hated admitting he had superiors. Then a malicious grin spread across his face.

"They are not as gentle and considerate as I." He turned to the driveway and barked out commands. "Apprehend the man in the vehicle. We will take him as well." Four men, with guns out and ready, lurched from the side of the house and charged the van. Ruke was ready. He stomped on the gas and roared down the street. "Don't let him get away, chase him." The men piled into the car in the driveway. Ted looked back to Miles to see a gun pointed directly at his head. He swallowed. The moment seemed much more tense than he had imagined it would be. "You won't kill me." He badgered. "You need me alive." "No, I won't kill you, but I'm not above wounding you enough to make you manageable." Miles jeered. The man at the wheel of the car threw it in gear and mashed down the accelerator. Instead of surging out of the driveway, it jumped a few feet and fell off its wheels. There was a terrible tearing, screeching sound as the cable Ruke had attached to the drive shaft wound up and tightened around the car cutting into the fenders. For a second it looked like the car would be cut in half by the tightening cable, but the engine stalled. The car sat there in sudden silence, half in the street, and half on the sidewalk. The doors were effectively sealed shut by the cable that wrapped around the car. The men inside struggled with the doors and windows, but to no avail. Ruke had glued the windows shut, and with the cable holding the doors. They were entombed. Ted turned back to Miles, and smiled at the man's slack jaw. "You . . ." Miles stopped short as he noticed three men running across the street. It looked as if they had guns, and might be cops. He glanced at his men trapped in the car, then

back at Ted. He startled Ted with a malicious grin. "Until next time Technician." He bowed chivalrously then sprinted back into the house. Ted keyed the radio switch he had been palming, and the house lights winked out. He was quickly rewarded with the sounds of Miles colliding with furniture. "You okay?" Marsh panted as he pulled up to Ted. The senior agent at his side, obviously wanting to follow before Miles could lose them. Ted put his hand on the agent's shoulder. "He's not going anywhere. Ruke is waiting on the other side, with the police." "Good job." The agent grudgingly admitted. They turned abruptly as Howard, sitting in the front seat of the crippled, car shot out the windshield. Three shots then a foot, and the opening was cleared. The junior agent appeared in front of the car. His own gun trained squarely between Howard's eyes. "Put it on the hood." Howard complied quickly. Jim was in the drivers' seat struggling with the air bag. A large nasty looking knife appeared and slashed at the encumbering bag. He cleared it away only to discover the agent had the drop on him. Eventually his gun and knife also ended up on the hood. One of the two men in the back seat lay unconscious. The other had been fumbling to find his dropped gun. When he rose from behind the front seat he too was foiled by the junior agent. His gun also ended up on the hood. "We better go back and find Miles." Marsh interrupted. Ted was just about to agree when a horrible, deafening roar erupted from the back of the house. Several people had appeared on the street to see what the commotion was. Most had retreated when they heard the gunshots, but all were now covering their ears. Some were trying to flee from the painful screech. Then a blazing light leaped into the

night sky nearly blinding anyone who looked. A moment later it winked out. The flame had shot up a thousand feet before arching over and extinguishing. "What was that, some kind of jet?" The senior agent asked. "No, a rocket." Ted said in astonishment. "But I saw wings." The agent continued. "It looked like a hang glider with a rocket strapped to it." Ted could hardly believe what he had just seen. He had seen it so briefly that it would not take much to convince him that he was wrong. "It just blasted out of the back yard. Miles!" Ted looked back up, but there was nothing to see in the darkness. "He's probably gliding over to land in the park somewhere." Ted sounded skeptical of his own words, and shook his head in disbelief. "A rocket on a hang glider. Huh-uh, I'm not putting that on any report." The junior agent argued, shaking his head defiantly. Table of Contents

Persistence Chapter 17

Miles ran dodging through the house, but the lights blinked out, and he stumbled into a chair. He chuckled to himself. "They think they have me trapped. I'll show them. I'll show them all!" He grabbed the small duffel bag that was stashed by the back door, ripping it open as he ran out. He ducked under a tarp that covered a large object. He reached up and flipped a switch. A small instrument panel flickered to life. "I'll show them all." He untied one corner of the tarp from its ground stake, and then raced to another corner and untied it. He grabbed the edge of the tarp, and dragged it off the tall object. What appeared to be the fabric wing of a hang glider stood with its nose pointing straight up, toward the stars. The wing looked very much like a normal hang glider, but attached to the under side of the wing was a strange looking pod. The pod would have been large enough to hold two people, if it had been entirely hollow, but only half of it was empty. A metal cradle with four legs supported the pod, which in turn supported the wing. Making the large contraption look a bit unwieldy. Miles ducked under the sail and stepped onto the small platform built on one side of the cradle. He slid inside the pod, and then secured the door. The door was thickly padded, and had two large holes, about shoulder height. The top half of the capsule above the door was transparent. This gave him a full view in front, and above. He looked up at the stars and his sinister grin intensified. "Here I come." He uttered as he reached up and

pushed a button labeled pre-flight test. A row of green lights appeared, all green but one. He looked down at his watch. "Come on, come on." He pressed the test button again, all green this time. "Goodbye fools!" He sneered as he pressed another button and an ear splitting roar erupted from the base of the pod. He grabbed onto two handles set into either side of the compartment, and braced himself. The capsule shook initially then settled into a fine vibration. A blast of flame burst from the bottom of the pod, illuminating the entire back yard, and the strange contraption shot into the sky, leaving its cradle behind. Miles was pushed down toward the bottom of the compartment by the force exerted from the rocket's thrust. His exuberance was not dampened though, and he laughed maniacally as he watched the crowd disappear below him. The entire block was lit up by the rocket's flame. The thrust only lasted a few seconds. The trajectory arched, so that Miles was lying on the padded door when the rocket sputtered and stopped. A mechanical arm disengaged the back of the capsule from the under side of the wing, and lowered it down toward the base tube of the control bar. The capsule was now swinging freely below the large Dacron wing. Miles looked down through the transparent cover and saw the park at least a thousand feet below. He could barely distinguish where the hazardous trees stood, or the inviting fields waited, but it was obviously the park. It was the only large area of relative darkness anywhere near. 'What a view, so quiet and peaceful.' "I hate it!" He reached out through the holes in the front of the capsule and grabbed the base tube, grinned maliciously, and pulled the control bar as far back as he could. The wing pivoted to a nose down attitude and dropped, diving from the sky. It was exhilarating, for a moment, but Miles quickly became accustomed to the speed and

decent rate. "Not fast enough." He complained. He gritted his teeth and pushed the bar forward again. He was forced into the padding with centrifugal force as the wing swung into a nose up attitude. He eased back the bar and let the wing climb almost straight up, bleeding off the inertia built up in the dive. Just as he felt the stall coming on, he pulled the bar back again as far as he could reach. The glider had been climbing almost straight up and slowing rapidly. Just before it would have stopped, it snapped over the top and accelerated into a new dive. A much steeper dive than before, and wicked laughter fell from the sky as the glider plunged toward the park. "Much better." Miles pulled the bar to the left and allowed it to ease forward. The wing snapped into a climbing turn and rolled over onto it's back as Miles eased the bar out farther. The wing eased over to a nose down attitude again, and was once again dropping almost straight down. He was regaining the speed lost in the wild maneuver. "Wa-whoooo!" He yelled, and initiated another wingover, this time to the right. Again he rolled the glider over onto his back and dropped into a near vertical dive. The park was looming up at him quickly, and he decided he could pull one more maneuver. This time he applied no side pressure on the bar as he eased it out, and the wing climbed straight over the top. Miles pushed the bar forward, and the centrifugal force caused him to groan, but he held the bar forward keeping the pressure on. He grinned through his groan as he saw the stars slide in front of him. The wing was slowing, threatening to stall, with him still upside down, then he saw the horizon slide into view. He eased the bar back again as the glider dropped back into a dive, exiting a near perfect loop. "Not bad for something so unwieldy." He complimented the machine.

Miles looked over to see the van waiting with its lights shining in the field. He pulled the bar over and headed for the headlights. He zipped across the field bleeding off his speed. Finally he pushed the bar all the way forward, flaring the wing into a stall, and it settled into the grass for a smooth belly landing. As soon as he had stopped, Miles pushed another button on the panel. A solenoid clicked releasing the capsule from the wing. It rolled over on its side. Miles unlatched the door and rolled out feeling deeply satisfied with his escape. At the same time he felt great anger at yet another set back to his plans. His superior would not be happy. Three men ran up to Miles as he contemplated his next moves. "You and you stuff the pod in the van." He ordered at the first two men, and then he spoke to the third. "You help me fold the wing." The wing was quickly folded, bagged, and lashed to the top of the van, appearing to be an ordinary, innocent, hang glider. The pod stowed neatly into the back of the van, and they were off within a few minutes. "You two take the glider back to that crazy fool who built it, and get him to check everything, and prepare it to use again." Miles ordered with a smile, patting the capsule with approval. "I'll call you there and tell you where to meet us." He addressed the third man next. "You will come with me." He turned back to the driver. "Drop us off here." He handed the driver a card with an address on it. "I must explain this failure face to face." Miles looked a little apprehensive, but settled back and tried to relax. The third man swallowed, he realized they were going to see the man who gave Miles his orders, and solemnly wished he were going anywhere else. He had no desire to be noticed after a failed mission.

"Look, I played around with rockets when I was a kid. I'm no expert, but that's what it sounded like to me. The flame was so bright I couldn't be as sure about what I saw. But, yes it looked like a rocket powered hang glider." Ted stated to the police officer, sounding a bit testy. The officer noticed the temper in Ted's voice, and cocked an eyebrow. He decided that he had questioned him thoroughly enough. "Okay Mister, ah, Phillips." The officer verified the name from the report. "You're free to go. Thank you for your cooperation." Ted heaved a deep sigh. All he could think of was a hot shower. It had been hours since he had hidden from Jim and Howard, and he could still smell the dust from under the house. The officer turned and walked away, closing his notebook with finality. A hand gently clasped Ted's shoulder, and he jerked around to see who it was. He did not hide his disappointment upon seeing the senior agent. "I know you're tired, but we need to ask a few more questions." His tone was apologetic, not commanding. "It won't take long, but if you'd like to shower and eat first, we'll give you a ride back." Ted was surprised by the senior agents' demeanor, and struggled for a moment to think of an appropriate answer. Ruke pulled up in the van at that moment, giving Ted an easy out. "I think I'll ride with Ruke. You guys follow, and we'll finish there, ah . . ." Ted searched, but his brain could not supply a name or title for the man. At least nothing that would not sound derogatory. "Michael Hayes, call me Mike." The senior agent inserted, and offered his hand and a smile.

"Mike." Ted shook his hand warmly. The idea of having several armed agents around the apartment was suddenly very appealing. The agent nodded and hurried to his car. There were two other cars parked behind his. Each held another pair of agents. The shower felt as wonderful as he had anticipated. Even better was the way Rose doted over him like a lost child. He tried to remember the last time someone had fussed over him this much. A frown furrowed his face. It was the last time he had confronted Miles. At least this time nobody ended up in the hospital. His smile returned and he continued dressing. Ted marched downstairs after his shower to get something to eat, and instantly felt guilty. Everyone was as busy as beavers, packing, stacking, and moving. Even some of the agents were helping by carrying boxes. "Guess we're buggin’ out, huh?" Ted asked Marsh. Marsh looked like an orchestra conductor, only twice as busy, pointing, directing, and making decisions on the fly. "We don't have much choice. We can't chance another visit from Miles." He answered gruffly. Letting Ted know that he was upset with him over the evenings' activities. "After you get done with those agents, I want to talk with you." He sneered, making Ted feel even more uncomfortable. "In private!" Ted visibly shrank from Marsh's harshness. "Better get in the kitchen before Ruke eats everything that's left." Marsh relented. Ted found Ruke indeed voraciously consuming a hastily prepared meal. Rose was also there, and she was protecting Ted's share. "You guys get chewed out by Marsh yet?" Ted asked as he took a seat at the table.

Ruke stopped chewing and looked up in distress. He turned to Rose. She took a deep breath before starting. "He won't speak to us. Had our escape and rendezvous directions delivered to us by Maria." She held up an envelope, as if verifying its existence. "He's really mad. In fact, everyone seems to be miffed with us." Ruke nodded his agreement with Rose's assessment of the situation, then continued eating. "Yeah, I noticed. He'll get over it, they all will. He wants me to talk to him when the agents are through with us." Ted reached for a sandwich, suddenly feeling as ravenous as Ruke was behaving. "I'll apologize, and straighten everything out." Ted answered, and then filled his mouth with a large bite of sandwich. Their spirits seemed to lift with Ted's confidence, and the three of them finished off the last crumbs in the barren kitchen.

Marsh virtually fumed as he paced the empty room. He had not spoken yet, and appeared to be formulating his comments. Ted leaned calmly against the wall, and waited. He had decided to let Marsh blow off some steam before he tried to explain. Marsh finally marched up and planted himself squarely in front of Ted. "I can't decide who I'm madder at, you for pulling this horse’s ass maneuver, or myself for letting you get away with it." Ted tenaciously fought back a grin. "I am not a baby-sitter! I am supposed to be the administrator of this organization. That means I'm supposed to organize the activities. Organize things so they all work together smoothly." Marsh's voice had been steadily rising. Now he was shouting, with his face held very close to Ted's. Ted was reminded of the military drill instructors he had seen in the movies. "I'm sick and tired of your cowboy antics! If you want me to run this organization you better

shape up, and show me the consideration I deserve!" Marsh fell silent, and slowly rocked back out of the threatening posture he had assumed. "You finished?" Ted asked totally unruffled by Marsh's surly demeanor. Marsh deflated, and stepped back, realizing his speech had none of the impact on Ted that he had hoped for. "I did what I did, because I didn't want anyone else getting hurt. I thought I could wrap Miles up in a ribbon and deliver him to the cops, and be done with it." Ted slumped a little. "I guess I underestimated him." "Now that's an understatement!" Marsh interrupted, with the last of his vehemence. "You think a group run operation would have come out any better? How was I to know he had a gizmo like that stashed in the back?" Ted spat in a violent response to Marsh's retort. Then he cooled off. "I blew it. I'm sorry. I was trying to put an end to it all." Marsh saw his opening and decided to change his track. "You want it all to end, don't you? Not just Miles but TeleTech too. No more amplifiers, no more pressure, no more responsibility! You want out!" Marsh had suspected as much for a while, but had not really believed Ted would quit. Ted's reaction to his accusation confirmed his suspicion. Now he knew it was true. "I see." He let his disappointment roll through his words. Ted's defiant stature had dwindled. "I can't handle being responsible for everyone's safety. I feel trapped." Ted raised his eyes to meet Marsh's, and some of his forcefulness returned. "I don't know how anyone can handle that kind of responsibility." Ted finished.

"I'd say we've both got some thinking to do. You will show at the new place, won't you?" Marsh inquired. "Yeah." Ted answered in a vague and distracted tone "I'll be there." He added more resolutely. Not until that moment had he made up his mind about whether or not he was going to show. "I'll be there." He muttered to himself.

Rose tapped her foot impatiently. Her ride was late, and she was eager to arrive at the new location. She had been out running her assigned route, and her instructions had included performing a few errands on behalf of the group. One of these errands had been to acquire new personal phones. Security, security, none of it had done any good so far. Her instructions had also included several stop-and-wait points, where she was to watch for any sign that she was being followed. On one of those stop and wait locations she had sat in a small cafe, and waited for Tanya to pass by, and verify that no one had been following her. She assumed she had also been similarly checked at least once today. 'Enough is enough. I'm tired of this crap.' She wanted a shower, and a change of clothes, but most of all she wanted to see Ted. She knew Marsh had intentionally separated them, and it angered her that they had to be inconvenienced this way. Why couldn't Tanya have just transported them all to the new location? Wouldn't that be secure enough for Marsh? She glanced at her watch, knowing precisely what time it was. It was thirty seconds past the last time she had looked at it. She noticed her foot tapping, and instantly stopped it, only to replace the motion with finger tapping against her indignantly folded arms. She almost immediately noticed the new motion, and

dropped her arms to her side in a near rage. She was angrier at her lack of control than with the lateness of her ride. A moment later she realized she was tapping her fingers against her legs, and threw out her arms in frustration. She scooped up her packages from the sidewalk, and trudged over to a nearby bench. She plopped down dropping the packages on the bench beside her. She composed a picture in her mind of herself, sweet and clean, cuddled in Ted's attentive embrace. She pictured them sitting before a large crackling fire, with wine and soft music. She leaned her head back, stretching her neck, then quickly glanced at the street. She had half expected her ride to show as soon as she had relaxed. No one stopped. With an exaggerated sigh Rose resigned herself to whatever her fate might be, and started reading the commercial propaganda printed on one of the boxes she had purchased.

"Blast my luck, She'll have my hide for dinner." George fretted as he slid the little car around the corner and neatly into traffic. He momentarily terrorized the lady he had cut off. She protested with a belated toot of her horn, but he was already changing lanes and passing another car. "Everyone knows there's supposed to be a couple gallons in the tank when the gauge hit's empty, but nooooo! I get the only car in the world with an accurate gauge. Damn my luck!" He passed another car and whizzed through an intersection as the light turned red. "Okay there it is, and I'm onlyyyyyy . . ." He looked at his watch. "Forty minutes late?" He yelled at himself. "I'm dead meat! Dead meat."

He screeched to a stop at the curb, and jumped out of the car. Frantically he searched the sidewalk, running back and forth, not sure which direction to look. Calming himself he panned a full three hundred and sixty degrees, but Rose was nowhere to be seen. He walked to a nearby bench and addressed a little old lady with gray hair, who sat with her shopping bag on her lap. "Scuse me Mam. Have you seen an attractive redhaired woman waitin’ round here?" He waved his arm at the sidewalk. "Bout my age. She'd a been carryin’ some packages." The woman silently shook her head. "Damn! Oh sorry. Thanks Mam." He trudged over to the car and leaned against the roof. "Here I'm supposed to be a finder, an I gone and lost a whole woman." Then a light of inspiration struck him, and he ran into the nearest store to see if she had come in to borrow the phone. After George had checked all the shops in the area, he finally abandoned his search. He climbed back into the car and raced away.

"You needn't look so worried Miss Mackenzie. Your welfare is not at stake." The eerie voice settled upon her through the darkness. She identified it instantly. "Miles!" Her lips virtually dripping with venom as she cursed his name. "Yes." His icy reply condemned her venomous tone. He continued, but sounding very civil now. "Actually, I have been ordered not to harm you. I find it intriguing that my superior," the word fell contemptuously from his mouth, "values you so much."

Rose was amazed how much she could discern from his voice, none of it pleasant. He sounded very smug, very triumphant, and she felt he was building her up just to lower the boom. "Alex, release her bindings. She cannot go anywhere." Miles ordered. Rose heard someone walking up behind her, someone large. "Personally I do not think you had that much to do with the amplifier." Rose cringed upon hearing that he knew what they had done. Then she realized he might have been baiting her, scavenging for information. Again she cursed her lack of control over her own body. "Yes! I know what you have accomplished. Your security efforts have been amateurish at best. Although I must admit, some of my aids have been no better. Ah! Former aids. I must remember to thank your technician for that deed." Miles continued his oration as heavy hands cautiously removed the bindings that held her arms and legs. "He, is the one who has tasked me, and he is responsible for your . . . " he paused a moment, "truly amazing discovery. I must admit, though, I've not faced a more worthy adversary in years." The blindfold was finally untied. The expected flash of light as it was pulled away never occurred. Rose could see no windows. The only light came from a dim, shaded, desk lamp. Miles was a mere shadow across the room. She turned to see the man who had untied her. She cringed, flinging her hand to her mouth in shock. "Give her some room Alex. We are trying to make her comfortable." Miles directed in a gentle manner. "I'm sorry if he frightened you. He can be imposing, but he is

very gentle, until directed to be otherwise." He offered, as he paced the far side of the room. Rose stared uncontrollably as the huge man behind her carefully eased back into the shadows against the wall. His eyes never left hers. He was undoubtedly the largest man Rose had ever seen. He stood nearly a foot taller than the doorway behind him. His hands were massive. Rose thought they were twice as large as Marsh's. She felt she was looking at an authentic giant. His face was pocked, and equally massive. He could have played Frankenstein's monster with little or no makeup at all. It was hard for her to turn her back to him, but she did. It was Miles who was the real threat. "Why are you doing this?" Rose implored, wanting to shift her thoughts away from the monster behind her. Miles stopped mid-stride, looked at her, and then resumed his pacing. It seemed to Rose as though his patience was wearing thin. Somehow, something was not running according to his schedule. There was over a minute of silence before Miles answered the question. "I am merely following orders." He finally uttered, the disgust was strong in his voice. "Were it left to me . . ." He turned stepping toward her into the field of the dim light. The deep shadows on his face made him appear ghoulish. Rose suddenly felt very trapped. "Your technician would have been incarcerated, and the rest of you would have been dispersed. A quick end to what has become a bothersome assignment. As far as their motivation, I think that is obvious. Proper control over your device would endow great power to its possessor." He stepped back out of the light and resumed his erratic pacing.

Rose knew she would never forget Miles' demonic face peering out of the darkness. She felt very cold, and very alone. ‘Will the others find me in time? Yes, of course they will. That's Miles' plan. This is a trap. Ted will figure that out, when Ruke tells him that Miles is also here, but Miles is clever, very clever. He would have realized all this too. Could this be a trap within a trap?’ Rose struggled with her desperation, but the answers did not come, only more questions. Then She felt Thomas's presence burgeon in her mind.

"Tell her I'm comin’." Ted said frantically leaning over Thomas. Then he leaned back flustered, and added, "Soon as I get a plan." Thomas cracked one eye curiously at Ted, and then went back to his concentrated effort. A moment later he sat up, and stretched. "She got it. She was nervous, but trusts you to save her. She also said that it was a trap." "Of course it’s a trap. All I have to do now is come up with an appropriate plan." Ted started to pace quickly across the small room. His head was down, and his arms were folded across his waist, with his fists clenched. People scurried to get out of his way as he marched along absorbed with devising a plan. He stopped, raised his head, and looked as if he were going to ask something. Everyone watched in anticipation. But no words emerged from his open mouth, and the look faded from his face. He resumed pacing. "Ann!" "I am behind you." She replied evenly. Ted turned and grabbed the coffee she held out, as though he knew it would be there. He took a testing sip, then a deep swallow. "Thanks, perfect." He answered without

her having to ask, then took off pacing again this time with the coffee cup grasped to his chest as if it were of immeasurable value. Marsh shook his head in amused disbelief. "If I tried to describe that to someone, they'd think I was crazy." He whispered to Ruke. "I can almost understand her knowing he would want coffee, but how did he know she would be there with it." "I häve decided, due to constantly underestimating the män, that there is little thät is beyond him." Ruke offered, then both men chuckled at the truth in the statement. "For such an inconspicuous individual he certainly can deal out the surprises." Marsh agreed. "Nothing, I've got nothing." Ted wheeled around so quickly that part of his coffee sloshed out onto the floor. "I need data. Someone get me a map, and, and a phone book." His concern for Rose was throwing off his concentration. He drained the remaining coffee from his cup and absent-mindedly held it out to his side as he turned to Paul. Ann refilled his cup as he spoke to Paul. "How much you got left in that case?" Ted pointed to the briefcase that had contained TeleTech's cash. Paul smiled proudly. "More zhan I had thought." He placed the briefcase on top of the amplifier, and opened it. It was about half full. "Almost two hundred sousand." Again necks stretched as others tried to steal a glimpse of the money. Ted took another sip of coffee, and seated himself at a computer. He set the cup down beside the keyboard, and scratched his chin. He tapped a few keys on the computer, and waited, then tapped a few more. Shortly his fingers were dancing on the keyboard in a blur. Ted was always more relaxed, more at home, at the keyboard than anywhere else. Text scrolled across the screen and inspired an occasional ahh, or an uh-huh from one of

the others as they watched, but none of them really understood what he was doing. Eventually everyone drifted off to other tasks. They all knew that they would be called if they were needed.

"Uh, Ted?" George probed timidly. Ted stopped typing, and swiveled the chair to face George. "I don't blame you." He blurted, hoping to avoid a drawn out explanation so he could quickly return to his planning. "Maybe." George replied sounding skeptical. "Maybe I need to do somethin’ to set things right." He lowered his eyes, then raised them and waved a folded map. "Here's the map." He spread it across the amplifier case. "We're here." He pointed, and waited for Ted's nod. "And they're here." He pointed to a red circle drawn on the map. "About fifteen minutes, ya think?" Ted asked and wondered if deep down inside he did blame George. The two men looked at each other a moment in silence. "I could do it in about ten, if traffic wasn’t too heavy." George stood back, squared his shoulders, and waited for a reply to his subtle offer. Ted had been craning forward in his chair to observe the map. Now he leaned back, and scrutinized the other man. "Okay, you're in, but you'll be driving the van. I've got a ton of stuff to put in it." George was taken back by Ted's quick acceptance, but promptly extended his hand. "I won't screw up." "I know." Ted answered, leaning forward he raised to grasp the proffered hand. He gave it a brief shake. His actions conveyed authority, compassion, and trust in a way

that seemed to re-inflate George's sagging ego. "First thing we gotta do, though, is test something I've been workin' on." Ted added with a conspiring glance around the room. Being in on one of Ted's schemes seemed a bonus George felt almost unworthy of, but he grinned and pumped Ted's hand again. He was inspired, and he would use this opportunity to reprove his worth to the team. Table of Contents

Impudence Chapter 18

The entire TeleTech team, minus Rose, was arranged around the dining table. Some still ate, but they all listened intently. Marsh sat with a stony expression, offering Ted no clues to what his opinion of the plan was. Ted decided to take Marsh's silence as a negative response, and proceeded to expand on his theory. "It's obvious that he's waiting for us. If we do anything other than what he's expecting of us we might endanger Rose. We're going to have to follow the rules he's set down to keep her safe." Marsh glared skeptically, then asked. "Walking right up to his front door doesn't seem like much of a plan to me, and how do you know what he expects of us, anyway? The only person who can come close to reading minds is Ann, and I haven't heard a word from her." The two men turned to Ann. Everyone else had been sweeping their gaze back and forth, following Ted and Marsh's comments, like the audience at a tennis match. Now they followed the ball into Ann's court. She smiled meekly over her cup and merely shrugged. Ted sighed with frustration. "The guy has surprised me every time I've encountered him. I'm not sayin’ I have figured him out, but we've got to do something, and quick!" He looked around the room. "If anyone can suggest anything better . . . I'm all ears." He waited a moment, but there was no response. "We've got to get something goin’. The new equipment George and I put in the van should give us a big advantage.

It'll give all of you the ability to tap into the amplifier without having to be hooked directly to it." Ted continued grimly not waiting for their responses. "He's had his hands on Rose too long already." "No more sittin' in the chair?" Thomas blurted. "We can all access at ze zame time?" Paul added, and Ted nodded to them both. Ted's surprise announcement about the newest improvements to the amplifier had rocked them. Eventually, though, the focus shifted back to Marsh. He looked around the room, but no one displayed more than an empty or surprised expression. He knew Ted was right. They had to do something soon. He was skeptical of Ted's plan, but nothing else had been suggested. "Okay, we'll go with this plan." He finally gave in. A ruckus broke out in the room, cutting Marsh off. He slapped his hand on the table, effectively silencing the room again. "While they're getting everything ready, I want you to put together a list of what you intend to do if you have to deviate from this plan. If I have to save your butt, I want to know what direction you'll be running."

Rose sat in a small dark room, furnished only with a cot. There was an adjoining bathroom, but the only window was boarded up from the outside. It had been covered with a heavy sheet of plywood that allowed not even a sliver of light to pass around its edges. Her door was opened periodically to verify her condition. Usually Alex would check on her, but occasionally a normal looking young man in a military uniform would do the checking. Rose had started calling Alex Lurch. The name had drawn no reaction out of the behemoth, but the satire did help her deal with his menacing presence. She had felt reassurance bloom in her mind each time Thomas contacted her. She knew they were

putting something together, but her impatience spurred her imagination with each moment she was held prisoner, and her imagination was far crueler than reality. She was shocked out of her frightful revere by a knock at the door. It wasn’t Lurch. He always just opened the door and shoved his huge head in, and then just as quickly withdraw once he had verified her presence. "Miss Mackenzie?" Miles! Even the name repelled her now. She stiffened her posture and turned her head away, attempting an air of aristocratic snobbishness. Something she believed Miles would find especially offensive, considering his typically arrogant attitude. "You must join me for dinner. Dinning alone can be so unbalancing." He approached ignoring her airs. She found his civility was a bit unnerving. 'You must dine alone all the time!' She wanted to shout her thought in his face, but she felt it would not be prudent to intentionally anger such a demented man, especially when she was so alone. She did not want to join him, and fought frantically to think up an appropriate, yet safe, rejection. Before she could formulate anything he firmly latched onto her upper arm and guided her toward the door. She realized he was being polite for his own gratification, and her response was entirely inconsequential. She discarded her thoughts of rejection and allowed her hunger to occupy her thoughts. A decent meal might appease her anxiety somewhat. If nothing else it would get her out of that dark and dreary room for a while. She was stunned by the dining room's elegance. Everywhere she had been in the building had been dark and foreboding. Here however, the beautiful crystal chandelier delicately illuminated the lavishly arranged, long, and massive dining table. The setting

was completely out of place in the old building, but somehow it seemed appropriate for Miles. The wafting aromas reaffirmed her gnawing hunger. She managed a noncommittal smile as he seated her at one end of the table. Rose swallowed forcibly, finding his chivalry disarming. She felt nervous again. She did not want to feel comfortable around Miles. She did not want to be around Miles at all. "I do hope you like pressed duck.” He stopped and looked back. “You aren't a vegetarian, are you?" He looked genuinely concerned. He waited for her response, before continuing to his own seat at the other end of the table. "I, ah, love pressed duck." She answered cordially, and then wondered why she was being so polite to her captor, but she decided it was better off playing along. "Thank you." "Oh good." He relaxed visibly, and seated himself, then reached for and rang a small crystal bell. Instantly a short, middle-aged woman stepped through a door carrying a large bowl. She was dressed as a chef, and carried herself in a professional manner. The aromas Rose had noticed before, now assailed her through the open door. It was enticing, and reminded Rose of home. Miles flicked his napkin, and placed it on his lap. Rose followed his lead, and found herself salivating as the soup was ladled into her bowl. She barely managed to constrain herself until Miles' bowl was filled. The woman stepped back from the table and waited. Miles delicately chose a spoon and tried a dainty sip. "Perfect, Nancy, as usual." He praised. The woman nodded and allowed a wisp of a smile to form before she returned to the kitchen. "Wait till you taste her duck. She is fabulous with duck." Rose smiled faintly, relieved to see him finally start eating.

"Now this looks cozy." Ted's familiar voice emanated from the shadows behind Rose. She froze with her spoon half way to her mouth, and looked at Ted, her eyes widened, then she looked back at the soup. She reluctantly lowered the spoon, frustrated with Ted's timing, but somewhat more concerned with her escape than with her hunger. She quickly moved to Ted's side. He pulled her in with one arm, and held a pistol with a silencer pointed toward Miles in the other. She hugged him fiercely, laying her head on his shoulder for a brief respite. "That's better," Ted cooed softly as she hugged him, "but for a minute there I thought I might be interrupting something." He added in mock implication. She gave him an accusing look then glanced at the splendid dinner setting, and shrugged. "The Marquis DeSáde there doesn't like to dine alone." She bantered back, and hugged him again. "Okay Miles, stand up, and have that gorilla back there come out into the light beside you." Ted ordered. "Anyone else?" He asked Rose softly. "The cook, she's through there." Rose pointed to the door. "There was a soldier that was guarding my room earlier with Lurch. I don't know where he is now." "Lurch?" Ted flashed an inquisitive glance at Rose, but he figured out the correlation before she could answer. "Yeah, that fits. Okay Lurch, over there." Miles had slowly risen, and signaled Alex to stand beside him. Miles displayed a continually deepening expression of satisfaction. "Your technician in shining armor, as it were." The satire in his voice was thick and confident.

Ted had come into this rescue knowing Miles probably had at least a couple of tricks up his sleeve, but that damned smile was working on his nerves. He was having second thoughts about the practicality of his plan. "You," Ted stabbed the gun toward Alex, "on your stomach, over there." Ted waved the weapon at an area of the floor. "Now!" Ted growled when the big man hesitated and looked to Miles for direction. Miles nodded toward the spot Ted had indicated, and Alex complied. "You do realize that coming here was exactly what I wanted, don't you?" Miles puzzled. "Yeah, we figured as much." Ted answered flatly. "Now cross your legs, and cross your arms behind your back." Ted stabbed the gun at Alex again. "I see. You just walked in here knowing it was a trap?" Miles let his menacing smile slip a little, showing a touch of confusion. "How brave." He added sarcastically. Ted doubted Miles actually was confused. He was probably still playing with them. "Well I've tried avoiding your traps, I thought it was time for a new strategy." Ted glanced at the kitchen door, then pulled out two pairs of handcuffs and tossed them to Miles. "Put one on each wrist." Ted hooked a chair with his foot, while keeping his eyes on his adversaries. He slid it over to Miles, and then pointed at Lurch. "Lift your feet." The big man did it without checking with Miles this time. "Slide the chair up against his legs." Ted ordered. He could see a scowl growing on Miles' face. "Now put your arms through the back of the chair and cuff your wrists to his ankles." "Come now, Technician. You don . . ." Miles started to complain, but Ted cut him off. "As proud as I am of being a damn good technician, My name is Ted Phillips." Ted was calm but insistent.

"I'm not . . ." PHUT-CRACK. A bullet tore splinters out of the floor inches from Miles foot. Rose was more upset by the shot than anyone else, and she dug her fingernails into Ted's free arm. Miles barely flinched. He seemed to be weighing Ted's ability to kill someone. Miles decided not to push the situation, especially when he knew he had the true advantage. He slowly knelt beside the chair and pushed his arms through the spaces in the back. Then he latched the cuffs. His eyes never left Ted. They showed no fear, or animosity, only patience. Ted lowered the weapon, and placed a third pair of cuffs on Alex's wrists. "I'm sure you've got something really clever figured out for us, don't ya." Ted chided. "You won't get away." Miles confidently insisted. "Well I guess there's no point in tryin' then." Ted holstered the gun, and sauntered over to Miles' former chair, sat, and tried the soup. "Mmmm! This is good." "Ted!" Rose complained. "What are you doing, I thought you came here to rescue me?" Rose looked almost as confused and bewildered as Miles. "He said we'd never get out of here. I've got no reason to doubt that, so sit down and enjoy your soup." Ted relaxed and breathed deeply, as though he had just arrived at home after a grueling day at work. "Are you nuts? We've got to get out of here!" Rose pleaded. Ted leaned forward and scanned Miles face. Lines of stress and anger distorted it, and beads of sweat formed on his forehead. His composure was dripping away with the perspiration. Ted leaned back in the chair again. "Yep, I think stayin’ right here's about the best thing we could do. Besides I like it here, isn't this lovely?" He waved a

dismissive hand at the setting, and then bent to devour the soup along with a piece of bread he retrieved from a nearby tray. Rose looked at Miles, then at Ted, then back at Miles, and finally at Lurch. He was showing signs of discomfort also. She put her hands on her hips and faced Ted. "I don't suppose you're going to explain what your plan is?" Ted glanced at Miles again. "Not right now. Besides, you probably wouldn't approve." Ted shoved another piece of bread in his mouth and grinned around it. Rose snorted in frustration, then remembered just how hungry she was. She sat and started eating the soup. Eating did seem to help ease her tension, but there was a definite lack of confidence in her movements. "Try the bread it's great." Ted recommended. Ted heard Miles squirming and couldn't help taunting him. "You sure know how to treat a guest Miles, I love the crystal. Do you have these things catered or do you have your own chef?" Rose was not sure whether to gasp or giggle at Ted's frivolities. Miles boiled. "You ignorant peasant. Your foolish antics will only make it worse for you in the end." "Tsk, tsk, tsk, you'll develop permanent frown lines if you keep that up." Ted replied. "Don't you think he looks older like that?" Ted's grin comforted Rose, although she was still unsure of their situation. His confidence inspired at least a semblance of composure, and she continued eating her soup. The door to the kitchen pushed in and the cook stuck in her head. Shock flooded over her features as she spotted Miles. "Tell Denton to turn it on now. Go, hurry!" Miles

yelled frantically. Nancy did not hesitate, disappearing back into the kitchen. Her running footsteps could be heard fading away. A satisfied grin formed on Miles face. It had all happened too fast for Ted to react. By the time he had climbed out of his chair the sound of footsteps had vanished. Rose looked at him imploringly, with terror budding in her eyes. Ted did not know what Miles had just done, but the whole situation suddenly felt wrong. He felt he had lost his advantage. "That was the cook?" Ted calmly asked Rose. She swallowed and nodded, looking for the confidence to return to Ted's eyes, but this time his eyes did not comfort her. Instead he slipped into heavy concentration. Rose was caught between anger and terror. She waved her spoon in the air menacingly, looking like she wanted to beat some sense into him. Ted had dallied away time that could have been used to escape, and now she could see in his eyes that his plan was crumbling. "What do we do now?" She pleaded accusingly, feeling her options vanish like steam above a teakettle. 'Rose, everything is going as planned so far, but don't relax too much.' Thomas's reassuring presence bloomed within her mind. 'It's important that you continue to appear frightened. Act nervous, but remain calm and do whatever Ted says. If he looks nervous, he's acting.' She relaxed noticeably before she managed to gain full control. She immediately tensed herself again. 'Now how am I supposed to act nervous?' She sarcastically asked herself.

'Try looking around a lot, and go stand behind Ted.' Thomas's suggestions startled her. For the first time she realized the implications of communicating with Thomas. 'I shouldn't be able to talk to you! How come I can . . .’ She stopped herself suddenly when she felt Thomas yelling at her. 'Get a grip, if you let them know you can hear me, you'll blow everything.' Fear moved back into her face. She scurried around the table toward Ted, with her head swiveling as if looking for phantoms. When she got behind Ted, she became aware that his balled up stance of concentration was only a cover. He was actually monitoring his wristwatch. Strange numbers and letters appeared and disappeared on its face. 'It must be a communicator or something!' 'Bingo, Ted need's to be in touch with us too. I hope you're not staring at it.' Thomas reminded. Rose jerked her eyes away and resumed her performance of nervousness, but now it was a performance. She felt utter confidence in Ted and his plan. She wanted to hug him, but that would spoil the effectiveness of her performance. She gripped his arm savagely. "When are we getting out of here?" She saw an opportunity to repay Ted for at least some of the unnecessary agony he had caused her. She dug her nails into his arm again, just enough to jerk his attention to her. He turned his head, his eyes boring into hers. "Not now!" He grunted under his breath. The fleeting smirk she showed him reinforced her intent to avenge his teasing. Ted closed his eyes in a grimace. Now was not the time for games. Things were not going as he had planned, and he was the only one who realized that fact.

'Ted's not . . .' Thomas's voice in Rose's head suddenly ceased, leaving a horrifying void. The room felt suddenly dark, quiet, and enclosing. Ted saw panic in her eyes. He glanced at the now snickering Miles, then to his watch communicator. There it was, on the screen, Thomas could no longer communicate with Rose. He swallowed heavily at yet another hitch in his plan, and tried to relax and think. Miles saw the confusion and panic, and reveled in a maniacal laugh. A laugh that started soft and small, and grew into a monstrous echoing scream then died suddenly, leaving a momentary silence. "You could not help underestimating me, could you?" He leered at them with contempt. "Now, remove these." He raised his arms to indicate the handcuffs. "Keeping me manacled can't help you now." Ted smiled weakly. "Didn't bring the keys." He sounded almost apologetic. "ARRRRRG! You fool. Once I've stripped the information I need from your mind I'll have you torn apart, limb from limb, and fed to the dogs!" Miles fumed threateningly. He jerked at the cuffs and managed to get a muffled grunt from Alex. Rose gasped at the vision Miles had invoked, and pulled Ted's arm. "We've got to do something. We can't just stay here!" Ted was concerned about Rose. She had to keep it together if they were to get out of this in one piece. He wrapped his arm around her waist and dragged her to him. He definitely had her attention. Her panic seemed almost to subside as she waited for him to continue. He remembered what his father had once told him. 'The best way to keep a woman from complaining was to make her mouth too busy to talk'. He could think of only one way of accomplishing that now, in fact, he had never come up with any better

way. He kissed her as passionately as he could. Her eyes grew saucer like, then closed completely. She struggled at first, but the kiss calmed her, and it worked for him too. He felt inspired, capable, and suddenly hungry again. He hurried out the way he had come in, dragging Rose by the wrist. They crept slowly through the dark structure, peering around corners, and constantly checking behind them. Rose had quickly recovered her wits, and was on a constant vigil. They encountered no one as they made their way toward the exit. The old office building Miles had chosen as a hideout was a virtual maze of corridors and small rooms. All of the windows were boarded up. Most of the rooms had no window at all. The only way out was through one of the four doors located at each end of the two main corridors. These large corridors crossed in the center of the building. They separated the building into four sections of narrow hallways connecting tiny rooms. There were only occasional lights that were working, just enough to keep them from walking into a wall. Ted had to find a way to get Rose clear of the building, and find George before Miles could track them down. It had been too quiet for too long. The silence was wearing on Ted. "You heard from Thomas?" He whispered realizing she would have told him if she had, but he needed to hear something, and her voice seemed the perfect remedy. She answered with a disappointing shake of her head. She dropped her eyes as though it was her fault, wishing he had not asked. "Let's find a safe place to hide for a minute. Maybe I can pick him up if I concentrate really hard." Ted was relieved at hearing her voice, and seemed to consider her suggestion. He checked the hallway again, and then stepped across, opened a door, and looked inside.

There was nothing, an empty cube with stark bare walls. He ushered her in, and softly closed the door. "How's this?" She gazed into his eyes for a moment, borrowing some of his strength. She offered a slight smile, then put her fingers to her temples, and closed her eyes. Every muscle in her face and neck grew taut. A few moments later she dropped her hands abruptly to her sides, and relaxed, shaking her head with frustration. "Nothing, but I'm not sure I'm doing it right. I’ve barely trained in telepathy." There had been too much frustration in her life lately, and it seemed to be mounting up to near her breaking point. She was so glad that Ted was there. Ted noticed the distraught look cross her face, and pulled her into a comforting hug. "I'm sure it's not you." He tried to console her. She pulled away, shaking her head again. "No, There's something different, something very different." She studied his face, but it looked blank. She had never seen him look like that before. No one had ever looked like that to her before. She touched his arm to reassure herself that he was really there, and that this was not just a terrible nightmare. "What?" He saw the doubt in her face, and pulled her back into his embrace. "What's wrong?" She nestled into him, but his usual vibration, the tingle she felt whenever he was near, the essence that was Ted was missing. She pulled away again staring deep into his eyes, inspecting them. Yes, it's him, but something's different. "Something . . . Something's wrong." She spoke hesitantly, as if listening to each word. "I feel as though . . ." Her eyes widened suddenly, and she allowed the insight to soak in slowly. "I've lost

one of my senses." She pushed her face up close to his, enthusiasm bubbling in her eyes. "I've lost one of my senses!" She gushed. "I've los . . . No, I've lost several of my senses!" Ted was worried, she was rambling, and she was making too much noise. They could not afford to be discovered. He grasped her shoulders and held her firmly at arms’ length. "What are you talking about?" He implored. "Don't ramble, and hold your voice down!" He added in a strong but hushed tone. "Sorry, I guess I did sound a little crazed." She apologized with a confident grin to comfort Ted. "I think I've figured it out though." "Figured what out?" He saw the control return to her features, and turned his attention to the hallway not listening to her reply. He put his ear to the door listening for intruders instead. "He's jamming us." Rose saw no reaction, so she continued, speaking louder and with more determination. "That's why Thomas can't get through, and why you seem so . . . two dimensional." Ted pulled away from the door, and looked at her with a quizzical expression. "Two dimensional?" "Yeah, you've always had a special feel, a vibration. It's gone, like you're not really here. Just some sort of projection." Ted looked astonished, possibly even a little hurt. "I'm just telling you how it feels. It's not an insult." "Miles has a jammer?" He considered the facts, and his eyes expanded slowly. "Miles has a jammer!"

"Yeah, but it's more than that. All my senses seem to be effected. Shouldn't we be able to hear at least a little traffic noise, and I don't remember smelling anything since we left the dining room? What about you, can you feel anything?" Ted deflated. "That blows the only theory I had. If Miles had discovered our carrier, he might be blocking it, but that shouldn't have any effect on my senses, and you're right. I haven't heard or smelled anything since we left the dining room." He rubbed his chin, manipulating the new variables. "What about George?" Rose posed. "Wasn't he supposed to be using the amplifier to find us?" "That's not exactly what his mission was." Ted flashed his infamous 'I'm in control' grin. "Come on, we gotta’ get movin’." The new insight made him feel a little more in control. They slipped out through the door, and made their way to another minor hall. 'I hate it when he does that.' Rose clenched her fists as Ted stalked off leaving her still clueless about his plans. Table of Contents

Realization Chapter 19

Miles wore a threatening expression as he watched one of the young soldiers slip a thin strip of metal between the handcuff and his wrist. The young man proceeded with extreme caution, aware of the consequences of causing Miles any more pain. He stepped back and picked up a large pair of bolt cutters, opened them, and carefully placed the jaws around the cuffs. The strip of metal that he had slid under the cuff separated the imposing cutting jaws from Miles' flesh. He swallowed and forced the handles together. 'Snap' the cuffs broke and fell to dangle at the end of the chain against Alex's leg. "Ahhh, good job, now hurry and get the other." Miles almost smiled, and turned his attention to another soldier who had been watching from behind. "Have they been located yet?" The first young man retrieved the thin metal strip from the floor and repeated the procedure on Miles' other wrist. "Sir." The second man barked clicking his heels together smartly. Then he held a small radio to his mouth and pressed the transmit button. "Situation report." He turned the volume knob up and held the radio out, so that Miles could hear the report. There was a moment of silence then a whispering voice issued from the radio. "Situation unchanged, targets still not located, repeat, not located." The radio went silent again, and the soldier turned the volume down, clipped the radio to his belt, and dropped his hand to his side to stand at attention as before.

The military discipline of his new assistants pleased Miles. He felt he finally had the proper support. 'Snap' the second cuff slid off his other wrist. He stood stretching his back and rubbing his tender wrists. "Now, get those off of Alex." He ordered at the young man, who now stood at attention, awaiting the command. Miles smiled as the young man snapped to his appointed task. "We will have them soon enough." Miles commented to no one in particular. He marched over to the table and took his original seat. "Call the cook. Have her salvage what she can of my dinner. I need to eat." The second soldier disappeared through the kitchen door. A short time later he returned, to stand at attention before Miles. "Sir, She requires five or six minutes before she serves you." Miles leaned back in the large high backed chair, and draped his right leg over the arm of the chair. He looked up at the rigid uniformed figure beside him. "It was working." The man made no reply, but Miles continued. "I could read it in her eyes." He turned to Alex, who was sitting up now. The last cuff was just about to be cut off. "Pity we had to cut those. I would have liked giving that technician a taste of his own steel." He returned his attention to the table, took a sip of wine, and stared up into the darkness beyond the chandelier. "Ha." He blurted "Ha ha." The rude laugh died abruptly. He moved his view to where Rose had sat at the other end of the table. His eyes were still glazed and unfocused "Ha ha ha!" His laugh was hard and rude. Then he dropped his eyes to his own soup bowl, and the spoon Ted had so boldly used. "Ha ha ha ha ha!" He sounded dangerous and cruel. "You'll pay. Yes, you'll pay!" His icy tones would have frightened anyone, but when he glanced around the room, he found he was alone, and he grunted at his solitude.

A moment later Nancy came in carrying a platter. He stuck his head over it when she lifted the high domed lid, and inhaled the aromas. "I don't know what I would do without you Nancy." It was a hollow compliment that was addressed to the plate and not the cook. She did not respond. "Do see that Alex has something to eat." He did not bother looking up from the plate. Nancy nodded and walked stiffly back to the kitchen, knowing it was an order and not a request.

"We'll never get out without being seen." Ted complained after quietly closing the door to the main corridor. "What about going up?" Rose looked up at the ceiling. It was made of loose panels set in a light steel frame, and would offer easy access. Ted stroked his chin and looked up, then looked down the hallway. The whole building had this type of ceiling, except in Miles dining room, where it had been removed. "Naw, too obvious, they would have thought of that too." Then he looked down at the floor and smiled. "But this old building has a raised foundation. We might be able to get under it. If they haven't thought of that too." Rose withdrew a little, wrapping her arms around herself, and wrinkling her nose. She was repelled by the thought of crawling around under an old building. "Down?" She sounded squeamish. Ted chuckled softly and started back down the hall. "You'll get over it." He added as he passed.

"You're loving this, aren't you? I'll get you back one of these days." Rose spat, trying to make it sound like real anger, but Ted was already several steps down the hall and did not hear most of her comment. She hurried to catch up. "Ah hah." Ted uttered, and opened a door labeled Utility. The room contained a washbasin and an abused steel shelf unit that leaned precariously. The floor was heavily littered with papers and trash. He slid the trash aside with his foot in several places revealing only the flooring, then stepped over to a corner and tried again. He stepped across the room and tried another corner. "Yes!" He dropped to his knees and slid the debris away with his hands, eventually revealing a metal-framed rectangle in the floor. There was a recessed handle to one side. He grabbed the handle and pulled, but nothing happened. He stood up, straddled the frame, grabbed the handle with both hands and tried again. This time a door lifted out of the frame a couple of inches, but it stopped with a subtle creak. Ted strained to hold the door from closing, but he was in a poor position. When he released the handle he expected the door to slam back into position, but to his surprise it stayed right where it was. He stepped around and slid his fingers under the edge, and gave a mighty heave. The door grudgingly moved up on rusty springs and hinges, but it opened with a loud squeal of protest. "Damn! Quick, jump in." Ted ordered. They moved fast, not knowing how much time they would have. He pulled the door down above them. It came slowly and creaked again. He stopped it a few inches above the floor supporting it with his back, and reached through the opening. He grabbed as much of the trash as he could reach and flipped it onto the door, hoping it would look undisturbed again, then pulled the door completely shut.

"Stay close." He cautioned Rose unnecessarily. She stayed so close that she kept putting her hands down on the back of his legs as they crawled away from under the utility room. Their eyes slowly adjusted to the cave like darkness. They could see a few spots of light. Ted crawled toward the brightest. It turned out to be a screened vent hole. It would have been too small to crawl through even if Ted did manage to knock the screen out without being heard. They constantly ran into spider webs, as they crawled along the short cement stem wall that supported the building. The taste of the dust they stirred and breathed in as they crawled soured their mouths. Ted could tell by her moans and soft whines that Rose would not last long amid the spiders and dust. He also knew better than to ask her to sit alone in the dark while he tried to find an exit. An exit, that he was not sure existed. He feared that they might have to go back inside. He swallowed deeply trying to bolster his hope. He was not enjoying this either. What had happened to their lives to put them in this situation? He stopped suddenly, causing Rose to bump into him. He turned around to look at her face. He only saw a soft line that ran down her nose, and another that outlined her chin. A few subtle arcs betrayed the curls of hair that framed her face. The rest was like mud. His imagination and memory cooperated to try filling in the details. 'What now, can't we just hurry and get out of here?' Rose thought to herself. She knew he was facing her, but all she could see was the outline of his hair. He knelt there, motionless for a while. She knew he was looking at her. ‘Can he see any more than I can?’ Then she could see his eyes, his strong nose, and that ever-present grin. She smiled. She knew it was her mind filling in the spaces left by the darkness, but it still comforted her.

When he leaned forward to kiss her, she was ready. They could both taste the dust on each other's lips, but it did not seem to matter. Their external senses had been dulled by the mysterious jamming device, and it wasn’t the touching or feeling that was important. They had each other, which was all that mattered.

George paced back and forth beside the van, his body rigid with tension. He knew something was wrong. He only had three minutes until he was supposed to assume Ted's Plan had failed. Then he would have to start on Marsh's backup plan. He paced to one end of the van, and checked his watch. "Damn!" He paced to the other end of the van, and glared at the old office building. "Damn!" He paced back again and stared into the van. The equipment they had installed sat passively ticking off the seconds. It seemed to taunt his patience. "Damn!" He paced the length of the van a few more times. His face furrowed in worry. He stopped and checked his watch again. "Only one more minute? Damn!" George looked at the building, and then stepped back to the open door of the van. He looked at the readouts again, but there was nothing new. He looked at his watch again, then the building, then the readouts, watch, building, readouts, watch, building, readouts. Three, two, one, their time was up. They had failed. He had failed. He stared at the building unable to move. "George, come in. This is Marsh." The muffled voice issued from the radio stuffed in his back pocket. That was it. Ted and Rose were stuck inside, and there was nothing he could do about it. He did not answer Marsh. He could not confirm such an end. "Come in, George. We have to stick to the plan." The radio nagged on.

He slumped in resignation, and reached for the radio to answer, but someone snatched it from his pocket. 'I've been discovered.' He jumped spinning in the air, bringing his hands up, and landing in a Ninja like ready stance. His mind dug into his karate training. He was ready for a fight. He needed a fight to soothe his anger. "Marsh, This is Ted. We're out, and safe, for the moment. There are some new wrinkles in the fabric that I shouldn't discuss over the air. I'll send you a message through the equipment in a minute." Ted stood tall and defiant. The radio held before his mouth. His free arm was wrapped around Rose, as she clung to him for support. She panted heavily while he merely breathed deeply. They had just run up, and were both winded. "Well don't just stand there with your mouth open. She needs something to drink." He teased George. George took a second to collect himself, then a huge grin spread across his face. He rushed forward and gathered them into his arms. "I’m glad you made it. This is great news!" Marsh's excitement was obvious, even over the radio. "Did everything go okay?" "We're okay, but the plan's a wash." Ted replied as he pushed Rose over into the van to sit. She was still breathing hard, and dust and cobwebs clung to her. George rummaged through the van, and returned with a cup and a thermos. Ted smiled, they had barely escaped, but they had made it. "Give me a minute to catch my breath, and I'll tell ya everything." Ted fell into the van to sit beside Rose. She quickly pushed the cup to his lips, and he drank lustily. She peered into the empty cup, then smiled and refilled it. They were feeling better, but they still looked atrocious.

"George?" Ted asked, wondering where he had gone. George popped up suddenly from behind the van. "George!" Ted repeated. "We need to move. My original plan won't work, and I'm sure they picked up that radio call." George nodded and smiled. He seemed happy enough to break out in song. "Pull your feet in." Ted lay back onto the half empty van floor, and rolled into the center of the thick carpeting. The sigh he released as his back muscles finally relaxed told them all he was going to stay there for a while. Rose rolled up next to him, and George closed the door. "Buy the way," she whispered, "thanks for saving me." She quickly reached up and placed two fingers over his lips. "Don't you dare spoil that with a wisecrack." She warned. He reached up and took her hand in his, kissed her fingers, and tilted his head against hers. They lay there silently re-energizing. They both knew it was not over yet. This was only a brief respite. George climbed into the drivers' seat and started the engine. "Back to the house?" He asked over his shoulder. "Or, You got another plan in mind?" He questioned sounding very mischievous. He smiled knowingly and nodded toward the equipment. "Yeees, I was wondering about that too." Rose purred in his ear. Her interest was piqued, and it was more than curiosity. "I assume that there was more to the plan than just rescuing me?" Ted was a little surprised at Rose's response. He had assumed she was ready to call it quits, and go home. He felt pride in her welling up inside him. "Actually it's only half a plan right now." He answered a little disappointed with himself. "So, find us a

place close by to hide, and keep your eyes open. They're lookin’ for us." Ted closed his eyes trying to visualize his next move. "Half a plan, that sounds about normal." Rose bantered. "I know just the place. Saw it on the way here." George said chuckling at Rose's gibe. They surged out on the road, with a jolt and a hard turn, rolling Ted to the side of the van. Rose landed on top of him. "Take it easy, we don't want to attract any attention." Ted complained, and then smiled at Rose.

"We are fine. Dirty, but fine." Ted narrated the conversation between Marsh and himself. He read Marsh's responses aloud as they appeared on the monitor, and his own comments as he typed. George and Rose were unable to view the screen comfortably, and they depended on Ted to inform them of what was said. Ted knew the signal sent by his equipment could be intercepted, but it was much less likely than the radios. He felt secure enough. The complications involved in finding and interpreting the signal were substantial. "He has acquired an army. Real soldiers. Whoever his source is they've got lots of backing." Ted paused as the reply slid onto the screen. "How many men does he have?" Ted scratched his chin, then started typing and narrating again. "I saw only six." He looked over at Rose for conformation. She considered for a moment, and then nodded. "I feel this is only the tip of the iceberg. Miles did mention others." Ted looked to Rose for conformation again. She smiled and nodded once more. Ted returned to the screen and

read Marsh's reply. "Distressing news, you should return immediately." Ted rolled his eyes at the others. They knew he had expected this, and anxiously awaited his rebuttal. Rose grinned, and found it interesting to be on this side of the authority confrontation again, and she felt a tinge of sympathy for Ted's seemingly constant conflict with authority. It dawned on her just how well he had dealt with it, how well he had controlled his emotions. She reached in and put her hand on his shoulder, expressing her understanding of his anxiety with another smile. He smiled back and nodded, then turned back to the keyboard. "That's not all. He has a device that blocks the amplifier's effect." There was a minute before the reply appeared on the screen. "Is that what caused Thomas to lose contact with Rose?" Ted's fingers jumped back to the keys to offer what little additional information they had on that theory. "Yes, but it did more than block the amplifier. It affected our natural senses as well. All of our senses were dulled." Ted looked to Rose and George. George stared back wide-eyed in awe. "Think he's going to let ya go ahead with your plan?" Rose asked, and then quickly added. "You still thirsty?" "Yeah." He reached for the cup. "What choice does he have? What's he going to do, ground me? Besides, I think I can explain it in a way that will convince him. You know how convincing I can be." Ted winked and threw Rose a beguiling smile. Rose almost blushed, then she shifted suddenly to anger. She was not angry with Ted, but at herself again, for being tormented so easily.

"Ah, here it comes." Ted leaned closer to the monitor and read Marsh's reply. "I am assuming that asking you to return would be a waste of time. Besides, There are a dozen people here foaming at the mouth for a chance to come out there and help." Ted looked embarrassed for a moment. Then started typing furiously. "Hey, what happened to your narratin’?" George butted in, sounding a little edgy. "What's a matter George, afraid Miles' soldiers will find us?" Ted heckled George for his edginess. George glanced around nervously then turned back to Ted. "I'm no coward, but I'm not eager to tangle with no army either." Ted nodded his agreement with George's statement, instantly turning serious. Then he read what he had already typed. "Glad for the support, this one's going to take the whole team." He resumed typing, this time reading as he went. "The way I see it, I'm the Marshall. Miles is a gunrunner. He's bad enough, but the one we really need to stop is the Man who’s supplying the guns. With that in mind, here's my plan."

"Good luck Marshall Ted." George baited. "Did I really say that?" Ted shook his head and winced. "Fraid so." Rose leaned in and gave him a peck on the cheek. "You sound nervous. Relax, I think this is the first really insightful plan you've had." Ted and George leaned away from Rose in unison and stared in disbelief. Ted's jaw worked up and down a couple of times before anything came out. "Most of my plans have worked beautifully!" He finally replied defiantly. "Yeah!" George added supportively.

"None of your plans have worked. You've just been lucky." Rose continued. "What da ya mean, I've been lucky?" Ted asked indignantly. George stepped back out of Ted's view, and waved his arms and shook his head trying to get Rose to stop. She ignored George. "Just what I said, Name one of your plans that went the way it was supposed to." "What about when Marsh brought Miles out to Lovelock originally?" Ted set his jaw and waited for her reply. "Oh yeah, that worked beautifully. Sure got Miles off our backs, didn't it?" Rose locked eyes with Ted, silently taunting him to try again. George waved, drew a finger across his throat, and mouthed the words 'no' and 'stop'. Rose still ignored him. "Okay, how about . . . or . . ." Ted froze. He realized she was right, and his head dropped in contemplation. George put his hand over his eyes and shook his head. He could not believe she had done it. She had destroyed his confidence, just as he was about to walk into the middle of the enemy's camp. 'How could she?' Ted looked at George with a forlorn glaze. Then he turned back to Rose. "You're right. How could I have been so foolish?" His lost looking eyes pleaded at Rose. "What am I going to do?" Rose smiled kindly, and took his hand in hers. She glanced at George as he continued to hold his hand over his eyes and shake his head. "You're going to march in

there and set up that arrogant S.O.B., and his superior, and be rid of them both, once and for all." "But, my plans?" Ted pleaded, but a spark of hope showed in his eyes. "Nobody's plans work out the way they're supposed to. That's the way life is. There's too many things that can go wrong to cover everything. Your plans aren't any better or worse than anybody else's. It's your unpredictability and adaptability that make you effective. That and your luck, nobody I know is luckier than you. You're always walking out of the garbage heap smelling like a fresh cut flower." Ted's eyes were glowing now, as he listened to Rose intently. George stared at Rose incredulously, and then leaned forward to get a better look at Ted's face. "You're going into a situation where you can't depend on any plan. You've got to depend on yourself, and your friends. You've got to be ready for anything." Rose paused, watching Ted's confidence visibly build. "You've got control of more variables than Miles, that gives you a big advantage. Now, Go in there and make us all proud, again!" She gave him another peck on the cheek, and gently pushed him away from the van. He looked at the old office building, and stood straight and tall, despite his weariness. He turned to Rose with a broad smile. "Thanks Babe." Her pep talk had drained what little energy she had left, and she sagged with exhaustion. "You better come back in one piece, or . . ." She choked unable to finish, and blinked rapidly to clear a burgeoning tear. "Like a bad penny." He turned back toward his objective, and then called back to Rose over his shoulder. "You should be thinkin’ of names."

"Names, names for what?" The puzzled look on her face made her look even more tired. "For our kid's, of course." He said as he walked off toward the building. "But, but . . ." Ted was already gone, and he had done it again. He had stolen her thunder and made the greater impact, but somehow, this time, it was all right. "Congratulations." George spoke from behind her shoulder. She turned to face him wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. "What?" "I said congratulations. Sounded to me like you just got engaged." George answered soberly. "Engaged?" She spun and looked at the darkness where Ted had disappeared. She turned back to George, her eyes flooding with her emotions, and she wept openly dropping her head on his shoulder. George looked helpless and he felt trapped, but he stood still and stroked her hair. "Everything'll turn out all right." "Damn him!" Rose uttered as she slowly regained control. "Sorry about the blubbering." She sniffled. "At's okay." George comforted, but wondered why she had damned Ted. "Why couldn't he stick around and say that?" Rose turned to look at the office building again. "Coward!" "Timin's everything." George offered and walked around the van before she could snap at him too.

"Timing's everything." She muttered to herself and sniffled again. "Alice." Rose pondered aloud. "George, what do you think of Alice?" She asked, looking much more composed than a moment ago. "Alice is a nice name." "Yeah, That'll work either way." He commented from the other side of the van. Rose froze for a moment. "What do you mean either way?" She called back. "Alice, Allen. Works either way." "Oh, yeah." Her eyes softened and she collapsed into the back of the van. "Maybe Zoie." "Zoie?" George wondered.

Table of Contents

Veracity Chapter 20

"He just walked up and asked to see you Sir." The soldier informed Miles. "Curious." Miles uttered as he pinched his chin in a thoughtful manner. "Show him in." He sounded astonished, but he appeared to be deep in contemplation. The soldier marched off, and returned directly with Ted following. Ted acted amused and cordial, smiling gaily. "Miles!" Ted greeted, as though he had just bumped into an old friend. "Mister Tec . . . Phillips." Miles matched Ted's civility, but he could not restrain a note of curiosity in his voice. Both men stood silently eyeing each other. Miles finally broke the silence. "To what do I owe the honor of this visit?" Ted smiled, but he did not answer immediately. He looked around at the stark and poorly lit room. "I don't suppose you have a study here. Somewhere we can sit down and get comfortable." Miles raised his eyebrows with mild curiosity. "All right." Miles answered contemplatively. "Sergeant, Inform Doctor Fisk of our guest, and ask him to join us at his earliest convenience. We will be in the next room." Miles opened a door, then suddenly turned back to Ted. "I hope you don't mind? Doctor Fisk has been dying to meet you." Ted was initially surprised at Miles' politeness, and then he jumped back into the role of the formal guest. "Oh no, I don't mind. Love to meet the chap." Ted walked through the door that Miles held open.

The room was well lit in the center, where the only furnishings were, but dark around its edges. The lighting made the room feel dimension-less. In the center of the room were two, large, thickly padded, high backed, chairs and a matching sofa. All were upholstered in dark brown leather. A small, plane, rectangular, maple coffee table sat in the center of the arrangement. There were no knickknacks, magazines, or lamps. The setting was bare and stark, regardless of how comfortable the furniture looked. "This will do nicely." Ted walked over and casually sat in one of the chairs, still playing his roll. Miles watched Ted curiously. He still had no idea why Ted had returned. He decided to play along, at least for a while. "Yes, I find it comfortable." He took the other chair leaving the door open. "Would you like a refreshment?" Miles asked politely. "Ah, yes, a cup of Tea would be nice. Would you have any herbal blends?" Ted grinned inwardly. He could see the pressure building in Miles. The need to solve the riddle of Ted's presence obviously badgered him. Miles fought an urge to leap over and strangle his young adversary. "Sergeant." Miles barely raised his voice over conversational level, and the soldier instantly stepped into the doorway. "Two herbal Teas." The sergeant disappeared without a sound. "Good servants are so hard to find. You must be pleased." Ted knew he was grating on Miles' nerves, and was favored with a brief scowl as he continued playing the role. "Ahem," Miles cleared his throat. "Yes." He acknowledged, his curiosity becoming barely controllable. "Doctor Fisk, I am glad you could join us."

Ted peered around the wing of the large chair. Doctor Fisk seemed quite old, possibly in his seventies, but he moved with the brisk movements of a much younger man, as he stepped around the chair to get a better look at Ted. His hair and long beard were silver gray, and unkempt. The small wire rimmed glasses nearly concealed the intensity in his eyes. He was a feeble looking man, but when Ted rose and shook the Doctors' hand he found a firm and steady grasp. Ted revised his estimate. Doctor Fisk was probably in his early fifties, maybe even his late forties. Ted would have bet that the man had spent the last twenty or thirty years bottled up in a laboratory somewhere. He made a mental note not to allow that to happen to him. "So, you are the young man who discovered the correct carrier for amplifying beta waves." The doctor greeted. Ted stood, and extended his hand. Fisk pumped Ted's arm enthusiastically. "Tell me how you managed to isolate the appropriate modulation?" Ted was not about to blurt out any of his secrets, especially not to someone who worked for Miles. He quickly changed the track of the conversation. "Thank you Doctor. I was most impressed with the carrier dampening field you engineered, very impressive indeed." Ted was astonished to see the man blush. "That was insignificant compared to your discovery. It was just a simple adapt . . ." "Doctor Fisk . . . would you like some Tea?" Miles interrupted. He was obviously disappointed with the exchange between Ted and Doctor Fisk. He had hoped Fisk would encourage Ted to reveal some pertinent information, not the other way around. Ted had assumed that Miles' had summoned Fisk in the hope that he would uncover some technical or strategic insights. He noticed how Fisk had cringed when

Miles had interrupted him. "Yes Doctor, please join us." Ted insisted quickly, before Miles could send him away. The Doctor turned to Miles for a cue. His expression was enthusiastic and hopeful. He definitely wanted to stay. The sergeant walked in before Miles could reply. He walked up to Miles, cupped his hand around his mouth, and proceeded to whisper a lengthy message into Miles' ear. The soldier stood erect, awaiting a reply. Miles paused in contemplation, but before he had time to respond Nancy entered carrying a silver tray with an ornate china Tea set. Miles looked up in exasperation. Somehow he had lost control. He calmed himself, and spoke quickly but politely. "Doctor, please join us for a while. Nancy, we will need another setting. Mister Phillips, please excuse me for a moment. I must attend to my staff." He turned on the doctor, and stared daggers at the little man. Fisk swallowed heavily. He was obviously terrified of Miles. He looked down subserviently, afraid to move. Ted merely nodded and reseated himself, accepting the teacup that Nancy proffered. Miles nodded to the soldier, and they filed out through the door. Fisk smiled meekly after Miles left, accepted the other cup from Nancy, and started to sit, but stopped quickly and rose up again. He glanced behind himself, and then shot another smile at Ted. He had almost sat in Miles' chair. He quickly moved around the coffee table to seat himself on the sofa. "Well, Mister Phillips . . ." The doctor acknowledged. Ted eyed Fisk curiously. "Have we met before?" Ted saw something familiar in the man's eyes.

"Oh no, that's not possible." He inserted, and then added. "Perhaps you have read my papers on magnetic frequency modulation of the . . ." Ted interrupted the doctor, suddenly recalling the picture of a much younger man. "Yes, a lot of my work is based on those papers." Ted felt he might kindle a useful relationship, and decided that a little stretching of the truth was in order, although he had read the Doctors papers. He had found them informative, but leading in the wrong direction. "No!" Doctor Fisk blushed. "Oh yes." Ted could not help but smile. "Had you been at the Lovelock project instead of me, I'm sure you would have reached the same conclusions." Fisk sat with his mouth open for a second, and then became serious. "I wish we were not on opposite sides of the fence, so to speak. So many questions you could answer for me. Have you tried . . .?" He stopped mid-sentence, and shrank back into the sofa. He looked down and noticed the cup in his hand. He took a sip, and allowed his eyes to go blank. Ted thought Doctor Fisk looked dejected enough to cry. "I was surprised by your defensive system. It not only blocked my amplifier, but it interfered with normal senses as well." Ted had hoped to get the doctor talking again, and for a second it looked like it might work, but Fisk glanced at Miles' chair, and withdrew even more. Miles walked in followed closely by another soldier. This one was older, and looked more seasoned. Miles stopped short of his chair, faced Ted and introduced the soldier. "Colonel Denton, Ted Phillips."

Ted started to extend his hand, but the colonel offered only a sneer, and turned back addressing Miles. "Sir, I must protest again, this man has proven himself to be our enemy. He must be planning some . . ." Miles held up his hand halting Colonel Denton. "Of course he is planning something." Both the Colonel and Dr. Fisk started at the comment. "As I told you before I am not concerned. Mister Phillips' plans never work, he has just been lucky." Ted experienced a flash of anger, just as he had when Rose had told him the same thing. Then he remembered everything else Rose had said, and an impish grin spread across his face. "But Sir, exposing him to Doctor Fisk . . ." Miles stopped the Colonel again with his hand, and favored Ted with a crocodile smile. "Mister Phillips is not going anywhere." Miles turned back to Colonel Denton. "You may join us while I endeavor to establish exactly what it was that Mister Phillips hoped to accomplish by coming back." Miles gestured with an open hand to the sofa. "Or you may leave." Miles sat and returned his attention to Ted. The Colonel stood where he was, but turned to face the group more directly. "I returned because I am tired of playing cat and mouse. I've been too busy trying to deal with you to work with my discoveries." Ted spoke with his eyes glued to Miles. "It has become obvious to me that I won't be allowed to continue until I relinquish control of my discoveries to someone with enough power to protect them. I am here to invite a bid from your superior." Ted watched Miles grimace at the mention of his superior, and then he glanced over at the Colonel who now displayed a dubious frown. Ted then

glanced at Doctor Fisk who was wide eyed in disbelief. He shook his head, trying to warn Ted off. A mixture of fear and bewilderment permeated his face. "Why should we give you anything, when we've already got you?" Colonel Denton interjected. Ted ignored the Colonel and waited for Miles to reply. "Unless you were very clever in that short time you were away, I don't see you having much bargaining power." Miles replied nonchalantly. "Oh, I think I'm safe enough. I wouldn't just barge in here recklessly." Ted said tilting his head in an attempt to look suave. "You did earlier." Miles answered smoothly, with a suave tilt of his own. Ted was caught off guard and stammered before recovering. "Ah, well, I wasn't ready for the complications caused by Doctor Fisk's equipment." "As I said before, his plans never work." Miles sneered to Colonel Denton, and then added, "Colonel will you please sit. I will get a stiff neck if I have to keep looking up at you." He motioned to the sofa, and continued. "All right, what sort of precautions have you taken?" He asked Ted. Ted Fought down his emotions. He must not lose control. "I think my knowledge is all the security I need. You see the data that made the amplifier work was discovered accidentally. It's not likely anyone else would find it under normal conditions. Ask Doctor Fisk. He's been looking for it for years." Ted smiled smugly and turned to Doctor Fisk. With everyone's attention on him, Fisk only shrugged and nodded taking another sip of his tea.

"We have ways of getting information." Colonel Denton interjected, and shivers run up Ted's spine. The Colonel was now seated beside Fisk. Ted shook off the uneasy feeling, and turned an icy glare on the Colonel. "That would take time, and there are a lot of people who know I'm here." "My sponsor will not offer you anything. We can easily trade you for your amplifier, and Doctor Fisk can do the rest." Miles answered before Colonel Denton could get started again. "That won't do you any good. It’s booby-trapped. If I don't check in every eight hours, the amplifier destroys itself." Ted raised his arm to look at his wristwatch. "About two and a half hours to go." Miles thought on that for a moment, then turned to Fisk and flashed questioning eyes at him. Fisk glanced at Ted then nodded. "It is definitely possible, even probable, considering the pressure you have imposed." The doctor stared woodenly at Miles. "I see." Miles contemplated a moment. "What exactly do you want me to ask of my sponsor?" Ted grinned smugly. "Nothing." He watched Miles' eyebrows lift instantly, verifying Ted's intended impact. "I'll ask him myself." "Ah!" Miles replied in a humorous tone. "That will not be allowed." "Then you lose." Ted stated flatly. "The amplifier will self destruct. Doctor Fisk will never discover my secrets, and I will never tell you anything." He turned to Colonel Denton. "And drugs won't do you any good. The pertinent data is something I am not capable of holding in my consciousness." He looked from the colonel to Miles, verifying

their comprehension. "My notes wouldn't do you any good either. I'm sure Doctor Fisk has a similar method of organizing his private notes. A personal code based on personal experiences. Without my cooperation, which you would never get through duress, you'll never understand how the amplifier works." Ted sat back and crossed his arms to emphasize his determination. Miles turned to Doctor Fisk again. "Could you crack such a code if it existed?" He asked coldly, applying as much pressure on Fisk as he could without getting physical. Fisk turned from Miles to Ted and back again. He studied both men intently before swallowing the lump in his throat and answering. "No, I do not think I could." Miles' frown prompted the doctor to continue. "You have seen my personal notes." He waited for Miles to acknowledge with a nod. "I am confident of their security." Miles sat in silence staring at the floor. Eventually he rose. "Colonel, come with me. Fisk, go back to your equipment." His commands sounded imposing and final. He pointed at Ted. "You will stay here. I will return shortly."

Colonel Denton followed Miles through the corridors to his private office. "You have been holding something in for some time now, unburden yourself." Miles stopped and pivoted abruptly in front of Denton after they had entered the empty office. His forceful words were somewhat more than a request. Denton was not the kind of man to be intimidated by anyone. He held his chin up and took a moment to collect his thoughts. "Sir, this is to be my last mission. I accepted it because of the bonuses offered for delivering your elusive adversary, and his invention. It

was described to me as a simple grab and run, that would only take a couple of days." He paused seemingly unsure how to continue. "Yes." Miles scowled trying to hasten the colonel. Denton raised one eyebrow at Miles' rudeness. "I am quite ready to retire sir. I am, in fact, eager. Taking my last job in the States, it having such heavy bonuses, seemed a good idea." Colonel Denton shifted his stance, and continued before Miles could interrupt. "I find myself thrust into a civilian infested environment with innocent friendlies on every flank." Denton paused again. "Get to the point man." Miles scowled again. The Colonel scowled back. "Sir if you wanted an army you should have chosen an appropriate battlefield. My men are not squeamish about killing, but most of them are Americans. If this ends in a battle the innocent bystanders who are hurt or killed will be fellow countrymen, possibly even relatives." Denton relaxed having finally aired his concern. "Is that all Colonel?" Miles glared, daring his subordinate to revolt. The Colonel stood his ground, and showed no reaction. "Good, you will receive your bonuses if you do as you are told, and I seriously doubt this conflict will end in a battle. At least not one involving bullets and explosions." Miles turned away from Denton ignoring his apprehensive expression. "Now, I want you to recheck our preparations, and I want you to put someone on Fisk. I don't trust him. "Sir." Denton affirmed his orders, pivoted smartly, and marched briskly out of the room not waiting to be dismissed.

Ted found himself alone. He was not sure whether Miles would contact his superior or not. If he did not, they would be right back where they started, or worse. He was a prisoner. He had hoped this would work out smoothly, and the others would not have to get involved. He had hoped for that, but he had not expected it. Miles had been an obstacle all along, and Ted knew it would take more than a simple hop to overcome the tremendous hurdle Miles represented. A moment or two later Fisk dodged into the room. He peered around the edge of the door to see if anyone had followed. He straightened and sighed deeply, then rushed over to Ted. "Here." He held out his fist with something small clenched inside, and then dropped it into Ted's open hand. "Push it as far up your nostril as you can. It must be inside the skull to be completely effective." His voice trembled with fear, and his eyes constantly monitored the door. Ted looked down at the tiny sphere in his hand. It was a little larger than a pea, but smaller than a marble. He turned it over in his hand. It appeared to be a steel ball like a ball bearing small and shiny, but with a large hole drilled through it. "You want me to shove this up my nose?" Ted looked up from scrutinizing the tiny ball, questioning apprehensively, but Doctor Fisk had already left. Ted was just in time to see the tail of his lab coat disappear through the door.

Marsh hung up the phone gently. The expression on his face caused Rose to blanch. "What?" She implored. "What did they say?" Marsh sat staring at the phone. "They don't care." His reply sounded distant, and his gaze was fogged.

"What?" Rose shouted. "Ted's over there! I saw Miles! What do you mean they don't care?" She was furious. It was inconceivable that the authorities were unconcerned. Marsh stared back displaying his own disbelief. His answer sounded like confusion laced with outrage. "He said they know all about Miles." He shifted his look to one of complete bewilderment. "We're not to bother them with any more, crank calls." "Crank calls? Crank calls!" Rose's fury collapsed into sobbing. "What about Ted?" Her feelings of helplessness were transparent, but Marsh was fighting down similar emotions in himself. It took a moment for him to console himself enough to come up with some support for her. "This does not really change anything." He rushed on with his explanation as Rose threw an accusing glare at him. "We were the ones who were supposed to pull his fat out of the fire. We just won't have any backup." Rose's accusing eyes forced him to continue. "His plan was sup . . ." "His plan!" Rose shook her head and threw herself on George's shoulder sobbing convulsively. George comforted her by stroking her hair again. "There, there, it'll work out. He's still got his luck." He raised his eyebrows and drew his lips into a long thin line in reply to Marsh's silent questioning, and gave a subtle shrug. "You had to be there." His comment did not console Marsh. It did soften Rose's torment though, so Marsh let it go. "I think we better assume the worst and commence with plan 'B'." He whispered to Ruke. Ruke nodded and marched off to the dining room to set people in motion, leaving George and Marsh to console Rose.

"Whät are you doing here?" Ruke snarled at Mike, the senior agent who had dealt with them before. "I was hoping I might be of some help. Hey, I can understand your attitude. That's why I came. Can I talk to Marsh?" The senior agent stood before the group, slightly unnerved by their hostility. "I was fed up. They've been given us nottin’ but garbage on this whole case. You people have been pretty tight lipped, but what you have said's been straight." "Why should we trust you? You have been against uz from ze start." Paul accused. "I'm here, and I was ordered to stay away. Hell, I guess you're gonna just have to trust your instincts. That's what I'm doin’, and it’ll probably cost me my job. I can't help myself. I hate it when the little guys get shoved around." Mike's comments softened the resentment on several faces. Marsh stepped forward. "We've been having to trust our instincts a lot lately." He offered his hand. "We could use some help." Smiles appeared around the room as Marsh and Mike shook hands. "I do have a little something special to offer." He pulled a small phone out of a pocket. "My partner . . . ah, ex-partner is in the office tonight. He's going to let me know if any pertinent data comes through." He waved the phone around, and received several friendly pats on the shoulder, and a few welcoming comments. George and Ruke stepped up to Mike shoulder to shoulder. George led off with an all business, and almost threatening tone and stance. "We've got a situation here, and we

need to know up front whether you're gonna be a help or a hindrance. How far are you willin’ to go out on our limb? Will you use that gun to save one of us?" Ruke backed up George's question with a steely gaze, and a firmly set jaw. Mike looked from one to the other answering with his eyes first. "I'd do that even if I weren't on your side." His reply seemed to strike home with both men. He decided to try to clear the air a little more while they were still receptive. "There's a spirit here, a sense, of family. I felt that in the bureau once. I'm here because I hoped to get it back." He looked around at the other faces that had paused to witness the confrontation. Ruke spoke this time, but the menace had faded from his eyes. "It täkes time to develop trust änd loyalty." "Yeah, but you've got to start somewhere." Mike shared a smile with Ruke and George, and they all knew that the first step toward that trust and loyalty had just been taken.

Ted sat and studied the tiny gift from Doctor Fisk. Why would Fisk give him a ball bearing with a hole in it, and tell him to put it in his nose? What was that strange man up to? Is it part of the trap, or is he trying to help? Ted touched the sphere to his tongue. It simply tasted metallic. He held it to his ear. Suddenly he heard faint footsteps at the door. He wrapped the sphere in his fist and turned to the door, but the sounds were gone and nobody was there. He looked at the ball inquisitively. Actually it was not a sphere. If the hole were not there, the shape would have been more like a football, but the hole had eliminated the tapered ends. He held it to his ear again. The footsteps were back. No, there were several

footsteps. It was the sound of men marching, somewhere in the hall. He pulled the ball around to look at it again, and the sounds disappeared. His eyebrows lifted slightly, and a wisp of a grin crept onto his lips. "The things I have to do!" He sighed to himself. Ted gently pushed the sphere into a nostril with his thumb. The room seemed to brighten just a touch, and he could faintly hear the marching, but most noticeably he could smell the leather chairs. He had not noticed that odor before. His hearing had been better when he held the sphere up to his ear though. 'He said it had to be inside the skull to work properly.' Ted held his hand in front of his face. Slowly he curled each finger down to his palm, until only his little finger extended. He screwed up his face and shoved the finger into the nostril after the ball, forcing it as deeply as he could. 'Whoa!' His senses exploded back to life. He could see, hear, smell and feel things that had been missing since he had arrived. It was quite a shock suddenly to have all these senses contending for his attention. The taste in his mouth was weekly stale. Yes! All of his senses were working at full strength. What was that little ball? It’s shape had caused it to lodge in a way that allowed him to breathe through the hole. A little congested, but tolerable. Somehow it was negating the effects of Fisk's machine. Ted's expression hardened. Now I have one more person to be responsible for. Miles returned before Ted had time to dwell on the complications to his personal life. "What exactly am I to request for you?" Miles stood in front of Ted, but would not look into his eyes. He seemed instead to be looking just over his shoulder. He looked tired.

Ted looked over at the sofa. "I won't know what to ask for till I know who I'm dealing with." "Impossible . . ." Their eyes locked for a second. A rage was building up inside Miles. Then suddenly he let the pressure hiss out between his teeth, like the diminishing sound of escaping air from a tire that is going flat. "You should consider your situation more carefully. I may decide to turn you over to Colonel Denton." He threatened. "You're smarter than that." Ted answered smugly. "If all I'm going to get out of this," he waved his hand around implying his general situation, "is torment and anguish, I'll settle for revenge." Miles sneered, then trudged out not waiting for a reply. Ted experienced an uncontrollable shudder. The thought of being turned over to Denton was frightening, and Miles had sounded much too genuine for Ted to dismiss his threat. He listened to Miles' fading footsteps echoing from the other room, and wondered just how much help Fisk's gift would be. Ted sat exploring his suddenly rediscovered senses, while waiting for Miles. Sounds and smells affected him the strongest. He noticed the marching had stopped, and a new sound replaced it. It was the sound of food preparation. Pots and pans clanged faintly from another room. There was also the occasional rumble of an indistinguishable, but deep voice. "Would you care for something to eat or drink?" Her soft and polite voice made Ted jump as Nancy spoke from behind him. "Sorry if I startled you Sir."

He was shocked to find that someone could still sneak up on him with his, what seemed like, heightened senses. "More tea, please." He turned and smiled, verifying that the recognized voice did belong to Nancy. "Will he be long?" "I'm not sure sir, but he did ask me to see if you wanted anything while you waited." She forced a smile. "Perhaps something to eat." "I see. Perhaps I should eat something." He paused in thought a moment, but nothing came to mind. "Recommend something?" Another smile popped up. This one was not forced. "I was preparing dinner for the guards. Would you care for some turkey breast, scalloped potatoes, asparagus, and Minestrone soup?" "That sounds wonderful, thank you." Ted answered. He settled into his chair, and Nancy left apparently pleased with his response. She seemed genuinely interested in pleasing him. Ted wondered if all of Miles' help would rebel given the opportunity.

Table of Contents

Desiccation Chapter 21

Ted was enjoying an after dinner cup of coffee when Miles finally returned. They scrutinized each other for a moment in silence. Miles showed no emotion, only the very professional gauging of his opponent. Ted was reminded of just how dangerous a man Miles really was. "Well, you have bought your interview." Miles sneered, then slowly lowered himself into his chair. "I can not allow you to leave once you have learned his identity. You will become just like Doctor Fisk." Miles drew his lips into a ghoulish grin. "You will never see your friends again." Ted had to anneal his confidence forcefully upon seeing that grin. "You're counting chickens before they've hatched, Miles." Ted managed a grin of his own to fortify his statement. "Perhaps I'll bring them with me." Ted's confidence was recuperating nicely. In fact he was swelling with cockiness. Once the identity of Mister Big was known an end could be put to all this absurdity. It looked as if he had done it. Miles' eyebrows rose slightly, then he leaned back in his chair assuming a completely relaxed attitude. "Come now, we both know that you are not serious about joining this." He waved a hand suggesting his entourage. "You are merely trying to flush out my sources." Miles paused for the implications to sink in. "Your curiosity will be your undoing." Ted heard footsteps approaching and leaned around the side of the chair to see who was coming. He immediately realized that was a mistake. If not for the sphere in his

nose, he would not have heard the approach of Colonel Denton. Miles had noticed Ted's move, and Ted did not fail to notice the suspicious expression on Miles’ face. Ted tried to act as though nothing unusual had happened. Fortunately Denton stepped up and whispered in Miles' ear before he could react. Ted heaved an inner sigh as Miles became more and more absorbed with the Colonel's comments. Denton stepped back to allow Miles a moment to think. Miles stroked his chin with his fingers, staring at the floor. Denton glanced at Ted with disdain, while he waited for Miles' reply. After a long moment of contemplation Miles motioned The Colonel back and whispered something into his ear. The colonel shifted positions and whispered something back. Miles thought for only a moment then whispered his reply. Colonel Denton snapped to, and marched out of the room. Miles stared at Ted in silence for what seemed an eternity before commenting. "It would appear that some of your associates do not share your optimism. Three of them tried to break in here. Presumably to break you out." Miles smiled at Ted's shocked expression. "Two of them were taken quite easily, but that large black one . . ." Miles shook his head with mock sympathy. "Our medic is taking care of him, but I do not expect him to cause any more trouble." Ted surged up from his chair, burning with rage. Vice like hands snagged his shoulders and forced him back into the chair. He struggled to break free. He wanted to tear at Miles throat, but four more hands secured his arms. Miles did not even flinch. Ted struggled turning savage eyes to his captors. There were two young soldiers securing his arms, and Alex was firmly grasping his shoulders. His tension melted into frustration.

"That's better." Miles straightened, and smugly continued. "Behave yourself, and I will let you see that they are being well treated." Ted had relaxed his muscles, but his mind struggled for answers. What was wrong? Why are they here? His confidence seemed to be on a wild roller coaster ride. At the moment it was plummeting downward. Ted collected himself and nodded his intent to cooperate. Miles stood, pointed to one of the soldiers, and said, "Tell the Colonel we are coming to see his . . ." He turned to Ted and smirked. "His guests." He turned back to the soldier and added. "The injured one first." The soldier released Ted's arm, clicked his heels, and scurried out of the room. Alex squeezed Ted's shoulders to remind him of his presence. The pressure caused Ted to wince. Alex eased up slightly, but refused to relinquish his hold. "Alex, I think you can release him now." Miles requested softly. Alex hesitated, and then squeezed Ted's shoulders again before removing his huge hands. Miles snickered at Ted's grimace. "I think Alex was showing his appreciation for the handcuffs you restrained us with earlier. Follow me." He concluded and marched out the door. Ted followed, with Alex close behind.

Ruke lay on a table. The medic was bandaging his left leg. Another bandage covered his right shoulder. His eyes were closed, and he was still. Ted surged forward wanting to help his friend, but huge hands again restrained him. The medic noted the commotion, and stopped a moment to address Ted. "Its not as bad as it looks. He's lost a lot of blood, but he'll be okay." He returned to his

bandaging, and continued to explain. "Both bullets passed cleanly through without damaging anything vital." The medic finished and turned to Ted with a scornful look. He evidently held Ted responsible for the situation. "He's unconscious because we had to sedate him. He was unwilling to submit, even after he had been disarmed. He was told he would bleed to death and still he fought! If you are going to have soldiers they should be trained. They should at least be taught that they can't help anyone if they are dead!" He stomped off to another room, in a huff, slamming the door behind him. Denton stepped out of a corner with a smirk on his face that slowly faded as he studied Ted's face. "You weren't expecting them, were you?" Ted ignored Denton, and stared hard at Ruke. Once before, the big Jamaican had taken a bullet for him. 'This has got to end.' He turned to Miles, but before he could ask, Miles answered his question. "Nothing will happen to him. Young Rogers is a serious physician. He will be well cared for." Miles turned and started out the door, motioning over his shoulder for Ted to follow. They went down the hall to the third door, and entered another room. George and Tanya sat on a cot in the otherwise empty room. They stood as soon as they recognized Ted, but the guard kept them from approaching him. There was no mistaking the relief and joy on George's face when he saw Ted. Tanya seemed as stoic as ever, but Ted thought he saw a wisp of a smile escape her control. "You two okay?" Ted's words were only a small part of what he communicated. He allowed his eyes to search the room, then followed with a few carefully chosen expressions, and finally threw a glance over his shoulder. The movements had been

aimed at no one, and were meant to encompass Marsh or the rest of his group. All his movements boiled down to the fact that he wanted to know what they were doing there. "We're bearin’ more bad news than we'd expected." George blurted catching on to Ted's maneuvers. Ted cut him off before Miles could, hoping to give him another chance to drop another hint. "I just came from seeing Ruke." He glanced at Miles, who nodded, indicating he would keep his promise. "He's going to be okay." Both George and Tanya showed signs of relief. "We knew he shouldn't a come, but ya know how he is." George chirped in, and quickly added. "We're fine. We'd be better if we had some real support though." Miles nodded at George, who instantly found a rifle barrel pressed under his chin. "That will be enough of that." He pointed and motioned Ted out the door. Ted quickly noted everyone's position. From the brief exchange he was certain that Tanya and George had been sent in on a mission, probably involving their talents. The parts about, bearers of bad news, and, a lack of real support, could only mean that the Feds were not cooperating. No real surprise in that. What could he do? So many people were depending on him. He turned to George, shrugged his shoulders, and displayed a puzzled expression. Then he doubled over convulsively. A sneeze exploded into his waiting hands, and he lurched forward from the convulsion. His bent-over posture kept him out of Alex's reach long enough to wipe his mucous-covered hands across George's shirt. The whole move had looked quite innocent. "Oh, sorry." He uttered nasally as he rubbed his nose, and Alex dragged him away. "You take good care of Tanya for me. Hey, easy Lurch!" The door closed behind him before another word could be said.

Ted found himself being held like a rag doll before Miles. He smiled and sniffled. "Must be catchin’ a cold." He chatted sounding nasal enough for it to be true. "You are trying my patience." Miles scornfully replied, then spoke to Alex. "I want some distance between him and his friends. Throw him in the holding room on the other side of the kitchen." Alex smiled a huge menacing smile and turned Ted around in his hands with his feet dangling above the floor. Ted saw the smile and swallowed deeply. "I'm sure he meant put me in the room. You're not still holding a grudge, are ya?" Ted was slammed onto the floor so hard it made his feet sting. His wrist was roughly jerked, causing his shoulder to twinge, as Alex rushed him down the hall. "Keep an eye on those two, I want to know if they try anything." Miles whispered to the guard, and then marched off in the same direction Alex had dragged Ted.

"Vhat vere you talking about? Vere you trying to give him a message?" Tanya asked showing a slight revulsion for the stains Ted had left on George's shirt. George looked up at the ceiling and shook his head, then held his finger to his lips. "Shhh!" He whispered urgently. Then he looked around the room, trying to be obvious enough for Tanya to catch on. Her eyes grew with comprehension, and she gave a curt nod, indicating she understood that there might be someone watching, or at least listening. George had decided that if there were a camera hidden in the room it would be behind the screen in the ceiling. He dropped his head as if in deep contemplation and

started to pace around Tanya. She stood rigidly waiting for him to stop. After a couple of laps he stopped with the suspected camera at his back and stared into Tanya's eyes. He had to be sure she would not react to what he was about to do. They stared at each other for several seconds, while George tried to make her understand without saying anything. He knew if there were a camera, there would surely be a microphone. With his eyes locked on hers, he started to unbutton his shirt, in a way that the camera would not see. Tanya kept her eyes locked on his. She clearly knew that he was getting into his shirt. She held her eyes on his stoically as George dug around and finally found the tiny metal ball. He inspected it nimbly with his fingers, never taking his eyes from Tanya's. Finally he allowed an expression of exasperation to settle on his face, and then quickly marched around Tanya to put the camera at her back. She turned to face him. It was his turn to be stoic. He held it up so that the camera would not see. Her forehead raised, and her face formed a question. He smiled, sneezed into his hands, and then displayed the metal ball again. Comprehension jumped into her expression, then the question crept back. George rubbed his nose, then made an upward thrusting motion with the ball. Her questioning expression shifted slightly, and George thought, 'yeah you.' He pushed the ball toward her insistently. She slowly accepted it, and then cleaned it as best she could, on her blouse. She pushed it in, and a knowing smile immediately creased her face. Now George's face formed a question, but surprise flooded across it as he felt her lift his weight with her mind. She lifted him less than an inch, just enough to make it look as if he had rocked up onto his toes.

"They're certainly not saying much." The guard commented over his shoulder. "But they're acting pretty strange. Think we should call the boss?" The other soldier was disassembling his rifle, and barely acknowledged his partner, but he uttered a response when the question was repeated. "Naw." The first man turned away from the monitor and watched his friend. A moment later he turned back to see the picture panning through the attic. "Damn, the camera's gone nuts. It's realigning itself. All I'm getting is a picture of the attic." His voice was frantic as he fiddled with the controls. The other man jerked alert. "Get it back! Shit!" He quickly reassembled his rifle, and leaped to the controls. He too could achieve nothing with them. "They must have found the camera!" He charged out of the room and down the hall to inspect the prisoners. He unlocked the door, and stepped in to find George and Tanya standing in the center of the room smiling back at him. Their expressions caused him to pull up short, and his rushing partner slammed into his back. Tanya lifted and pulled them into the room, while George checked the hall for others. Then he checked the door to make sure they would not be locked in when it was closed again. Tanya banged the two men's heads together, and dropped them in a pile in the corner. They had never recovered from the shock of being lifted by an invisible force. George held his finger to his lips and vaguely pointed around the room, indicating a probable microphone. Then he pointed to his nose then to her. She sneezed the ball into her hand and held it out for him. He screwed up his face in disgust, and gingerly pulled the ball from her hand and rubbed it thoroughly on his shirt. He pushed it into his nose, and instantly received the power of the amplifier. Not only was he able to use his

expanded talent of detection, but his normal senses seemed to dance alive also. They felt enhanced, or maybe it was just that he had been deprived of them for a while. There is no better way to learn to appreciate something than by being deprived of it. He motioned for Tanya to follow as he led the way to Ruke. Outside the door they switched the ball back to Tanya. Her abilities made a formidable and silent weapon. They eased into the room silently. Ruke was alone. He lay, unconscious on the table where the medic had left him. George moved to the other door, put his ear to it, and listened. He turned back to Tanya with his finger to his lips. He scrunched his face in concentration for a moment, and then looked up. He motioned to Tanya bringing his arms together and up, then parting at the top. It looked like a large flower pushing up through the ground and blooming. Then he pointed up and carried his hand over in the direction of the house where Marsh and the others waited. Tanya nodded, and closed her eyes fixating on the ceiling. It slowly disassembled itself in a surreal motion to reveal the underside of the roof. The roof peeled itself open like a flower blooming in a time lapsed film. There was a slight tearing and stretching noise, but George was surprised at how little sound was produced when Tanya forged the gaping hole. George shook his head in amazement. She had done that incredible task with only the slightest sound, and she had not appeared to strain herself a bit. He returned to the other door and listened again, then nodded. She took a deep breath and focused on Ruke. He gently rose through the opening and disappeared floating toward their haven. A few minutes later she took another deep breath and proceeded to replace the ceiling, not bothering with the roof.

George watched the ceiling reassembled itself as though by magic. 'A new science is often perceived as magic.' He thought to himself. 'An incomprehensible power, controllable only by others.' Even with his understanding of this new science he thought of it as magic. He pointed to his nose and held out his hand. The exchange was happening more quickly now. George led the way to Ted. Twice along the way they had to duck into empty rooms to avoid guards. With George's ability to find or detect, it was a relatively simple trek. They found a single guard outside Ted's room, and decided not to take him out. Instead they would get to Ted by going through the walls of two unoccupied rooms. When the wall blossomed open into his room Ted saw George lean in through the opening with his finger to his lips. Ted quickly slipped out, then asked without expressing the amazement he deeply felt. "What kept you?" George rewarded him with a smirk, while Tanya remained a pillar. "What about Ruke?" Ted asked as he followed them back through the opened walls. "I sent him back to dé savehouse, the others vill take care of hém." Tanya did not bother closing the holes. They were not going to be there long enough for that to matter. Ted grabbed Tanya's arm stopping her. "We can't leave yet." "What? If we stick around here, we'll end up like Ruke, or worse!" George protested. He did not want to stay a moment longer than he had to. Ted still held Tanya's arm. "Give George the little ball. We've got to find the lab." Tanya complied obediently, holding out the ball in her hand. George ignored the ball, and stepped back. "The lab! That place'll be crawlin’ with guards. We can't go there."

Ted plucked the ball from Tanya's palm, and held it up in front of George. "Where do you think this came from?" Ted backed off a little and slumped under the weight of his constantly expanding responsibility. "Another recruit, and we've got to save his ass before Miles burns it." Tanya stepped up and took the ball from Ted and shoved it at George with a sneer for his cowardice. George reluctantly received the ball, cleaned it, and inserted it. "Just when I thought we'd pulled off another miracle save, you want to throw our fat back in the fire." His eyes went blank for a second. "It's not going to be as tough as I thought. It's just through that wall." He pointed across the hall. "And there's only two people in there." Ted stepped over and clapped a hand on George's shoulder. "I'm ready to get out of here too, but this guy risked his life to save mine. I can't just leave him here." Ted held out his hand for the ball and smiled. George answered with a sinister looking grin, bent over and blew extra hard into Ted's palm. Tanya quickly plucked the ball from Ted's hand shaking her head. A moment later the wall opened up and they stepped through.

Doctor Fisk and his assistant stood stunned on the other side of the freshly opened wall. Fisk altered quickly from stun to revere. "My god! That was incredible." He stepped toward Ted offering his hand, and a huge smile. It was his deliverance. He saw freedom in Ted's face. The other man backed away though, a look of panic on his brow. Ted greeted Doctor Fisk again with a hardy handshake, but his attention was split between Fisk and the terrified assistant.

Fisk noticed Ted's distraction, and wheeled quickly on his aide. "Edward, hold your ground there is no cause for fear." The Doctor’s calming failed to control the frightened man, and he bolted for the door. His flight was cut short at the door. Miles and several guards barged in, with weapons aimed menacingly. The man jumped back, falling on his butt and scurrying backward, like a spider, into a neutral corner. Miles scowled as the man fled, but quickly turned his concentration on Ted and Fisk. "You are just full of surprises, aren't you?" Miles sneered and stepped in front of his guards. He raised a very large and nasty looking pistol, and pointed it at the Doctor. "I should have kept a closer eye on you." Miles eased his face into a malign grin, and the Doctor's eyes grew till the whites showed all around. BANG, the flash from the muzzle of Miles' gun caught everyone off guard, even his soldiers. Ted could not take his eyes off the end of the pistol's barrel. Then he felt Fisk's hand pull away from his. He turned back in time to see Fisk slump to the floor. He looked at the crumpled form on the floor with a small red flower of blood on the lapel of his lab coat. Ted's features hardened like steel, and he fully intended to lunge at Miles, but he could not move. "Tanya! Let, me, go!" He grunted as he strained against her mental hold. "Nyet!" She answered firmly, then added, "No." "What's stopping you?" Miles did not realize that Tanya was holding him back. He was not aware of the sphere, and its effects. "It is nice to see something other than that infantile smirk you typically display. What is the matter? Afraid this might be your demise?" Miles babbled on, drunk with the power of the moment, the power of life and death.

Ted suddenly became aware of the other people in the room. Almost a dozen soldiers pointed rifles at the three of them. There was no time for plans. He had to do something now. Miles appeared to have gone off the deep end again, but that might work in their advantage. An idea struck him. He just hoped Tanya could make it happen fast enough to give them a chance. "Tanya, move us between them!" He shouted. Almost before he could blink, he was standing behind Miles. He swiveled, and reached around him, grabbing at the gun. They struggled savagely locked in a mortal embrace. BANG, BANG, the gun went off throwing its bullets out in random directions as they struggled, BANG, BANG, And BANG. Then CLICK, CLICK, CLICK, it was empty. Miles pivoted inside Ted's arms, releasing the useless weapon. "Damn you . . . Technician!" Miles drove a fist into Ted's ribs, knocking the wind out of him. "I should have killed you before! I should have killed you!" He yelled savagely driving another fist into Ted's ribs. Ted nearly collapsed with the pain, but he could not let Miles win. He allowed his shoulders to drop as if he were collapsing. Just as Miles was about to smash his doubled fists into Ted's back, Ted lurched forward into Miles' chest driving them both to the ground. Ted landed on top of Miles knocking out what breath remained in him. Both men squirmed and gasped as they writhed on the floor. Tanya had managed to sweep George out the door before the soldiers caught onto what had happened. She grabbed him by the wrist and sprinted down the corridor and around the corner. Eventually one of the soldiers pointed a finger. "You and you, stay here with me. The rest of you follow them, and don't kill them. If you have to shoot, shoot them in the leg."

Ted was just starting to get his wind back, and he noticed that Miles was rolling over. He scrambled to his knees, but before he could work his way to his feet. He was hauled up by two of the soldiers. He relaxed, relieved. Miles' jabs to his ribs had knocked most of the fight out of him. He eyed the two guards as his head rolled across his shoulders. In his state of exhaustion he could do little else but let them support him. "Thank God! I don't think I could have stayed on my feet any longer." He managed a week smile for Miles as the crazed man climbed to his feet before him. Miles grinned back and slammed another jab into his ribs. Ted gasped as his lungs were forcibly emptied again. He would have fallen flat on his face if the guards had not held him up. "Shut up! Technician!" Miles spat the words out between gasps of breath. Then another blow, this one to the jaw, knocking Ted's head from left to right. A trickle of blood ran from his lip. He slumped and the guards hauled him back up. Ted's body trembled with pain. His head throbbed and his lungs ached. He decided the possum technique was his best chance to escape any more punishment, besides it was about all he was capable of in his present condition, so he stayed limp. While he hung there with his head on his right shoulder, he observed Doctor Fisk crawling behind one of the huge pieces of equipment. He felt energy flooding back into his abused body, but he remained limp. 'Fisk is alive!' Now was not the time to fight back. One on one Ted was only a mediocre fighter, and with three or four against him he didn't have a prayer. He saw Miles lift his arm to deliver yet another blow. Ted closed his eyes and waited. Instead of the pain of the blow that he was expecting, He heard the hissing of electrical arcing. A sound Ted knew all to well, somewhere in the room circuit boards were burning. Then his senses delivered the blow he had been expecting from

Miles. His body came alive. The pain of his bruises, the taste of blood, the smell of sweat, not just the inner pain he had been feeling, but everything. Every part of his body screamed for his brain's attention. Even the subtle mechanical sounds of the lab seemed to assault him. The jamming device had been shut off, probably destroyed. A split second later the guards released him, and he fell to his hands and knees. They had also been shocked by the sensory assault. Miles started off toward Fisk's hiding place. Ted had to do something. In Miles' present mood he would certainly finish the Doctor off. He kicked out with his leg catching Miles off guard, and sweeping his feet out from under him. Miles landed hard on his shoulder and hip. A scowl of contempt enveloped his features before he hit the floor. Miles grunted with the impact, but he quickly recovered. Ted rolled away narrowly avoiding Miles' foot as he kicked wildly at Ted's head. He had certainly recaptured the man's attention. The guards recovered from their shock and secured Ted, before he could escape. Miles climbed to his feet, a sneer shaped his lips, and his eyes were those of a wild man. "So you want some more." A savage blow whipped his head around, and sent his mind reeling. The blow was infinitely more painful than before the jamming device had been shut down. Another fist caught him squarely in the stomach before his eyes could refocus, doubling him over. Once again he would have been writhing on the floor if the guards had not held him upright. With his senses fully aware he was on the verge of passing out from the pain. He managed to crack his eyes open, only to have them knocked shut by another punch, this one to the temple. Then everything faded to black.

Tanya quickly dragged George through a door, and softly closed it. They both leaned with their backs against the door, panting for breath. Tanya put her hand over George's mouth. "Shhh." She put her ear to the door. George followed suit, and they both forced themselves to breathe softly. George could hear his heart pounding. He pushed down his fear with a hard swallow. "Hey!" He blurted enthusiastically. "Everything's workin’ again. I know where they are." He stopped to take several deep breaths. "Vhere are dey?" Tanya pressed him, but held her tone as well as her breathing down. "They took a wrong turn a couple of halls back. We lost um." George sighed with relief, and slid down the door to sit on the floor. "Vé, are, safe?" She spoke each word between deep breaths. "You, can use, de, amp, li, fier?" She added still panting. "Yes, and yes." George answered recovering. His breathing had slowed from a heavy pant to a light but deep rhythmic pattern. "De jamming device, must be, no longer, functioning." Tanya voiced her thoughts. "Probably so, huh!" George answered. Tanya snorted the ball into her hand, and then wiped it into George's. "Store dés, ve may need ét. Ted needs our help. Ve must go back." "Yeah." George agreed solemnly, but his attention appeared focused with disgust on the mess in his hand. "Hey next time I want my own. I hate this . . . Yuck." He wiped his hand off and placed the ball in his pants' pocket.

A little while later they were back at the hole in the wall of the lab that Tanya had made earlier. They peered around the edge of the opening, and saw Ted being held in a chair. He appeared conscious, but just barely. Blood was smeared all over his swollen and bruised face, and flecked his shirt as well. Miles held Ted's head up by the hair, and shook it to emphasize what he was saying. They were too far away to make out the words though. Ted's jaw hung open. He tried to move it, to say something. Miles leaned in closer to hear. Ted moved his jaw again, saying something they could not hear. Miles leaned back and delivered a savage slap to the side of Ted's face. His head rolled limply back and forth, like a puppet. George stiffened, and before he realized what he was doing he marched into the room. Fury burned in his blood. "You bastard, ulp." Tanya reeled him back through the opening and around the side, just in time to avoid a bullet that smashed into the opposite side of the hall. "Thanks." George meant it, but he almost wished she had let him go. "We gotta do something." He pleaded. "Is any vone coming?" She asked urgently looking at the hole. George squinted his eyes for half a second. "Just one, and he's movin’ pretty slow." "Run across dé opening, and down dé hall." Tanya instructed. "What, and get shot?" "You vill not gét shot. Move quickly, before ét és too late!" He hesitated, so she shoved him out in front of the opening. He did not hesitate again, but jumped past the hole. A second later another shot smashed into the wall. George turned and displayed an

exaggerated expression of resentment, and made a rude gesture. She waved him off and mouthed the word 'go'. He swallowed his resentment, and sprinted down the hall, making as much noise as he could. When the guard emerged from the opening, he cautiously peered around the corner. Tanya lifted and flung him against the wall. He slumped to the floor, out cold. George returned and retrieved the guard's rifle, being careful not to stop in front of the opening. "Are any of dé others coming?" Tanya asked as she eased her eye to the edge of the opening for a peek. George squinted, this time for a little while longer. "The others are comin’ back, the ones who were chasin’ us. They must have heard the shots. They'll arrive on the other side of the lab though." "Keep checking on dem, ant let me know if déy spleet up, or change direction." She eyed the rifle. "You know how to use dat?" "No, but if he wakes up, he'll think twice before he tries anything." George smirked. Tanya grabbed the rifle from his hands too quickly for George to react. She removed the clip and inspected its contents, then slapped it back in place. She gave the weapon a cursory inspection, and then passed it back to George. "AK four seven, good veapon." "Hey, were you in the army or somethin’?" George asked in comical amazement. "Da, or zomezing." She glanced at the opening avoiding George's comments. "Ve need a plan, ve must do somezing, but I do not know vhat."

George shrugged, and lowered his head in thought. They both heard the soldiers arrive back in the lab. They looked at each other with concern. In a moment the area would be swarming with soldiers. "Can you close the hole, or put somethin’ in front of it?" Tanya stepped over to the edge of the hole, touched her temples with her fingers, and focused on the opening. The fragments of the wall crumbled and fell away in bits and pieces. The opening was now larger than before. She turned quickly to George, ready to run. "Dés vill not vork! Ve must . . ." "Wait a minute. They're not commin’ after us." George interrupted, still squinting as he talked. "They're goin’ the other way, and they're takin’ Ted with um. What do we do now?" "Ve follow. Are dere any staying behind?" She checked the soldier slumped on the other side of the hall. He was still out. "Yeah, two men on the other side of the door." George answered, and then added. "Wait, there's someone else. It's that guy Miles shot, he's not dead, but I think he's close to it." He looked at her with an imploring look that said 'just what we needed'.

Table of Contents

Convocation Chapter 22

Two soldiers led the way down the corridor at a fast trot, followed by two more, then Miles. Next, another pair of soldiers towed Ted by his arms, with his heels dragging the floor. It was hard to tell if he was conscious. He seemed oblivious to his surroundings. His battered head was bobbing from side to side with the gait of the men who dragged him. His face was swollen and smeared with blood. His clothing was tattered, and blood stained. Four more guards brought up the rear. The last two men ran backward most of the time, watching for anyone who followed. The squad reached the outside door at the end of the corridor, and burst through the doors. It was dark outside. There were no lights in the area. The only illumination came from the stars. The men slowed reflexively after they cleared the building. They continued into the darkness, each waiting for his pupils to dilate and his night vision to kick in. Miles smiled to himself when he saw the huge canvas-covered object loom out of the darkness. "I want him strapped in next to me." He ordered as he ducked under the edge of the canvas, held up by the two soldiers who had led the way. After the last of the group had slipped under the edge the two men heaved and pulled the tarpaulin to reveal a huge helicopter. As soon as the tarpaulin had fallen away, the pilot engaged the starter. The silence of the night was shattered with the grinding of the powerful starting motor. The mammoth blades moved slowly at first but gained speed rapidly. Abruptly the blades stopped, causing the enormous vehicle to shudder violently.

The starter no longer ground its gears, but made a fearful electrical whine instead. The pilot switched it off, then back on again, but the blade would not move. "What's wrong?" Miles demanded gruffly. "Don't know sir. The mast seems to be frozen." The pilot appeared undaunted, but mystified. "Fix it!" Miles barked unbuckling himself. He moved to a small storage cabinet behind the pilots' seat, and extracted a forty-five automatic with holster, and a small plastic cube. The cube had an antenna protruding from one side and a button on another. He smiled at the cube as he inspected it warily, then put it in a shirt pocket and strapped on the pistol. He pulled the forty-five, removed the clip verifying its contents, then slid it back in place, and returned the weapon to the holster. "Sir?" A soldier beckoned Miles from the door. Miles stepped over and peered out. To his amazement, what looked like a church choir stood about twenty yards away facing the helicopter. He was only momentarily struck with a sense of revelation, and would have quickly ignored it had he not seen his dead cousin standing in the group. 'She fell to her death! They saved her.' He struggled with the new reality for only a moment. 'They turned her against me!' He glanced over and noticed the shock and disbelief on the face of the soldier who had called him over. The soldier shook his head, rubbed his eyes, and looked again. Miles' eyes were still adjusting to the darkness, but this time he recognized Marsh. His tall frame stood in the center of the front row of light blue satin gowns. The gold piping strongly contrasted his dark skin. A smile crept over Miles' lips. "So, you thought you could daunt me with

cheap theatrics." His grin was answered with somber disdain, from every face in the angelic assembly. Marsh rose about a foot, and floated forward, hovering in front of the group. "Miles Regis Cranford, You will come forward and face your tribunal." Marsh's powerful and menacing voice, along with the reverently cloaked group, and his ability to fly, conjured up visions of old testament wrath. Marsh aimed his piercingly hard visage at Miles, in anticipation of his reaction. Miles stepped back into the deeper shadows of the interior of the helicopter. "Fire a warning shot to disperse them." He muttered to the soldier. He received a wild-eyed questioning glare in response. The appearance of Marsh's group might not have affected Miles, but it was having a strong influence on his men. "Do it soldier!" He snapped at the hesitant young man. His eyes carried a threat beyond what his words could convey. The soldier swallowed, stepped to the door, and leveled his rifle. Miles turned to the pilot. "Any luck with the engine?" Before he received a reply there was a grunt, then whimpering from behind him. Miles turned back to the soldier. He no longer stood at the door. He cowered in a corner of the cabin, on his knees, with his hands covering his face. "You coward! Where is your rifle?" The soldier pointed a quivering finger meekly toward the door. "Why you . . ." Miles grabbed the young man by the collar and pulled him to his feet. He was about to shove him out the door after his weapon, when he realized the man was totally unaware of him and his threats. He shook the man until he saw a smattering of sanity return to his eyes. "What happened to your weapon?" "They, they took it. God took it away." Then the young man's eyes glazed over and he shrank away from Miles.

Miles let him go. He glanced outside, and then turned to, the pilot. The pilot shook his head. He appeared completely baffled with the helicopter's nonperformance. "Miles Regis Cranford, you will come forth or be carried forth!" Marsh's thundering voice demanded as he floated before his angelic assembly. Miles shook his head. "Fools! All right, everyone fire at will." There were several grunts of 'huh', but not one shot. "They’re angels!" An unknown voice uttered. "They are the enemy!" Miles screeched. There was hesitation, but the men slowly moved into a firing position, but still no one fired. Marsh floated back down into the center of his robed companions, and conferred with Paul. Colonel Denton climbed in through the door on the other side of the helicopter. He was out of breath and sweaty. Miles stepped up to him, but before he could speak, Denton raised his hand to hold him off. "I heard." He stepped over to the other door, gathered himself with a deep breath, and addressed the members of TeleTech. "Please walk away before we have to fire on you." Marsh floated out of their ranks again to address Colonel Denton. "We wish only to collect our missing members. The people who came here before us to retrieve Theodore Phillips, and we intend to take Mister Cranford. You and your men may leave." Marsh floated back into line and crouched to listen to Ann's whispers. "Do you understand that there are at least twenty rifles aimed at your group?" Denton continued in amazement sounding a little less sure of himself after witnessing a bit of TeleTech’s show.

Marsh crouched again for Ann, then floated forward. "You had seventeen weapons aimed at us." Marsh waved his hand to his right. "Those seventeen weapons." Denton stared at the haphazard pile of rifles, then at his men. Shrugs and fear was all he received from the disarmed men. He reached down and unsnapped the cover on his holster, and slid his pistol out. It jerked away from his hand and sailed over to join the pile. He suddenly felt overwhelmed. He had never been so badly out flanked. He stepped back to Miles. "Sir, there's not a lot more I can do. I've never encountered anything like this." His stature showed a beaten soldier proudly standing to his fate. He fully expected his crazed leader to shoot or maim him for his failure. "I was better off with Jim and Harold." Miles muttered in disgust. Denton did not know who Jim and Harold were, but the intent of the insult did not escape him. He stepped aside with a barely perceptible air of sulking. Miles pulled the small box from his shirt pocket and turned the red button, unlocking it. He stepped over to the door and sneered. "You can take your cheap parlor tricks you sanctimonious assholes and try to stop this." With that statement he thumbed the button on the small plastic cube. There was a tremendous flash of light, and a deafening roar, accompanied by a shock wave that blew everyone off their feet. The blue robed figures were scattered like bowling pens. Even the huge helicopter rocked and slid a few inches. Miles was the only one prepared for the blast. He quickly pushed Ted to the floor, jumped down to the tarmac, threw Ted's limp body over his shoulder, and sprinted into the darkness.

Rose shook her head to clear it and tossed aside a smoldering board that had landed on her back. She was one of the first to rise. The building was completely gone.

Small bits and pieces had flown all over. Burning or smoldering debris was everywhere. The scattered fires cast an eerie flickering light that did not improve the visibility, but did cast many ghostly shadows. Like floating specters the smoke tended to confuse and obscure. "Ted!" Rose screamed and ran to the helicopter. Thomas, Mike, and Terra followed her closely. She climbed inside, but Ted was not there. She pulled Denton up by the shirt. He was still groggy from having the bulkhead suddenly slam into his forehead. "Where's Ted?" She used the Power of the amplifier to help lift and shake the man, a seemingly incredible feat, he being almost twice her size. "Where, is, Ted?" She repeated. He pointed out the door feebly. He fell into a lump when she released him. Her entire entourage disappeared into the darkness with their robes flagging as they ran. Denton slowly rose to his knees as he even more slowly regained his senses. He looked around at his men. The survivors moved toward the helicopter, helping one another. "To the trucks. On the double." He commanded, sounding a little more stable than he felt. He crawled out of the disabled helicopter and joined the march.

Marsh surveyed the remaining team members. He was pleased to find no one was seriously injured. There were a few minor cuts, but mostly bumps and bruises. "Jill, can you contact Terra or Thomas?" He asked stumbling over to help her to her feet. He knew he had to get them active, or lose them to the shock of the situation. Most of them had never been involved in a serious field operation. He was having second thoughts about the wisdom of bringing all of them here. 'Perhaps Ted was right about that.'

Jill stared into his eyes with confusion and pain. "How could he? There were still people in there." She was still a little unstable, and she rocked noticeably as she tried to move her eyes from the smoldering debris to Marsh. "Can you contact Thomas, or Terra?" He grasped her shoulders firmly and held her steady. "They aren't here. Can you tell where they are?" He continued trying to coax her back to sensibility. Jill swung her head around taking in the devastation around her, and she tried to piece the events together into a meaningful continuity, but the reality still evaded her. She noticed several members of the company were missing, and turned back to Marsh, still a little dazed. "Oh . . . yes, I'll try." She appeared to strain for a moment. Then her head flew up, her eyes blinked, and popped wide open. She stiffened from the toes up. After a moment she relaxed, and looked back at Marsh. She looked surprisingly refreshed. "Thomas, Terra, and Mike are following Rose. They are chasing Miles. He's got Ted." She blinked and swallowed, trying to collect herself. The surge of energy she had felt while communicating with Thomas and Terra was quickly dissipating. "Steve, I don't think they know where they’re going. They're just running in the direction that Miles went." Marsh nodded. She seemed to be wilting before his eyes. "Thank you. Are you okay?" "Yeah, just shaken a bit." She tried to brush the dirt from her gown. "Good, why don't you see if Ben needs any help?" He shooed her off, hoping that keeping her busy would speed her recovery. Then he turned and looked at the helicopter and the pile of weapons beside it, and wondered where the soldiers had gone. "Maria,

come over here." Marsh called. A moment later she was standing beside him. "Anyone still in there?" He pointed at the helicopter. "No sir. They have all gone." Maria answered promptly, obviously not as shaken as Jill had been. "What direction did the soldiers go?" Marsh turned to look at her. She pointed off across the nose of the helicopter. "And what direction did Miles go?" Maria moved her arm about thirty degrees to point straight through the helicopter. Marsh nodded. "And what direction did Rose go?" She smirked, and moved her arm another thirty degrees to point across the tail of the big ship. Marsh shook his head with amused relief. "Well, I guess we don't have to worry about them running into each other and getting hurt." He turned back to survey the rest of the group. Maria smirked again. "No sir." She turned to face the same direction as Marsh. "Sir, I will keep track of them, and let you know if they do approach one another." He turned to her and an amused smile crept over his face. Not because of anything she had said. It had just struck him as amusing that she was the only woman he had ever worked with that could look him straight in the eye. Why that would seem peculiar now, he could not discern. "Good, thank you." She felt proud to be so efficient when others were still recovering. Her pride showed in her stance as she stood at Marsh's side. Marsh unexpectedly blanched and turned to Maria. "What about George and Tanya?" A look of apprehension pervaded his expression. "They weren't still in the building, were they?"

The soldiers dragged themselves into the two trucks in which most of them had originally arrived. Of the original forty-three only eighteen had made it to the trucks. Colonel Denton's command was nearly wiped out, and he still did not understand how. The remaining men looked tired enough to fall asleep where they fell. Amazingly, the skirmish had lasted only minutes, but to look at them you would think they had been at it for days. The Colonel had seen it before. It was not the fatigue of exertion, but the fatigue of defeat. He had seen it rob a man of all his energy in an instant, and this defeat had forced him to question his philosophy. He sat silently in the front seat staring blankly into the darkness. One of the younger soldiers climbed in behind the wheel. He appeared to have a bit of energy still. "Orders Colonel?" The Colonel eyed him. "Food, then sleep." He answered without hesitation. "Sir?" The soldier requested, desiring more detail. The Colonel shrugged and slid down into the seat. "Find a burger joint or something, and get us the hell away from here." "Yes Sir." The soldier started the truck and pulled out into the street. He checked the mirrors to make sure the other truck followed. "Sir?" "Yes . . ." Denton glanced at the soldiers' sleeve. "Corporal." "Sir, are we coming back?" He glanced periodically at the Colonel waiting for a reply. It took a while before Denton decided what to say. "Son, first of all, I don't think there's anything to come back to. Second, I just got my ass shook like a rag doll, by a little wisp of a red-haired girl. I've had all I can take, and I'm goin’ home."

The soldier looked nervously at the Colonel, trying to decide if he should continue or just let the Colonel rest, but his curiosity got the better of him. "Sir, what if Mister Cranford orders us back?" "Son, when I said I was goin’ home, I meant home.” He unbuckled his empty holster belt and tossed it on the floorboard. “I'm retiring, hangin’ my birds in the closet and going fishing.” When they came to a stop the Corporal turned his head and looked into the Colonel's eyes. "Son, that little girl shook all the fight I had left right out of me. This world is changing too fast for me." Colonel Denton looked old and tired as he slid down even farther into his seat and pulled his cap over his eyes. “But Sir!” The Corporal insisted. “I’m done! I don't care if God himself calls me." He paused a moment, thinking about what he had just said. “But I doubt he ever will.”

Jill tapped Marsh on the back. "Thomas wants Maria to tell them which way to go to find Ted." "I'm surprised it took them this long to think of that." Marsh stroked his chin and looked around at the remaining weary looking team members. "Have you told them anything?" "No, I thought I should talk to you first." She peered up at him lost in indecision. "Good, okay." He looked passed the helicopter. "Tell them when Maria gets back we'll be able to help them more, but for now . . . just tell them he's off to their left somewhere."

Miles had slowed significantly. His energy levels were getting low, and carrying Ted was not helping. He had considered several times just dumping him, but he needed him if he was to salvage anything from this fiasco of a mission. He had doubled around and was making his way back to the area where the trucks had been parked. It was just a little farther, and he knew he could force himself to cover the short distance. When he arrived he was not surprised to see the trucks were gone, but he sneered at their absence anyway. He laid Ted down on the pavement, stretched his back, and then inspecting Ted's senseless face. It was impossible to tell in the darkness whether Ted was unconscious or faking. He pushed the face away roughly with his foot, but there was no reaction. He stretched his back again and walked a few steps stopping before a looming bulky shape in the darkness. He untied the corners and grabbed hold of the tarp that stretched above him. It pulled away easily. He looked back to see the vague silhouette of the rocket glider, waiting to whisk him away to safety once again. He plodded over to Ted, hoisted him wearily to his shoulder, and carried him to the glider pod. He opened the door, and stood Ted in its interior. He held Ted up with one palm as he eased himself into position in front of Ted’s limp body. But when he tried to close the door it would not latch. Try as he might there was not enough room to get the door closed with both of them inside. Ted moaned, and Miles knew his time was up. He pushed the door open, leaned out against it, and let Ted fall to the ground. Ted landed with a loud 'oomph' as the air was knocked out of him. Miles ignored him and climbed back into the pod and switched on the power. "Come on, come on." Miles urged the circuitry. The lights slowly changed from red to green. He hit the launch button as soon as the last light changed, eager to be

away. The rocket fired, and Miles glanced down to where Ted had landed, but Ted was not there. He was standing to the side of the pod, a menacing sneer dominated his face, and a large piece of broken glass was in his hands. Ted reached up and stabbed his crystal blade into the sail just as the vehicle lifted from the ground. The crystalline shard savagely ripped a large hole in the sail before it was torn out of his hands. He stumbled back shielding his face from the flame. The force of the rocket blast and his weakened condition was enough to send him to the ground. He looked up through the swirling dust and dirt at the small ship as it corkscrewed wildly off, instead of flying a smooth clean arc as it had before. "Land that you bastard!" Ted moaned weakly.

Miles' eyes bulged as he watched helplessly. The glass blade had slit the sail from the middle of the right wing down to the trailing edge, and then deflected to one side, where the sail was folded over. The ‘L’ shaped tear was over three feet long and a foot and a half across. 'Maybe it will hold till I can land.' He prayed, but the huge tear in the sail billowed and slapped back and forth causing the glider to gyrate fearfully. Miles was being bounced around in the pod, but he held his attention fixed on the tiny roll of fabric that held the Dacron wing in some semblance of an airfoil. If it held, he might be able to control the ship when the rocket stopped pushing. His face was hard and determined as he stared at the sail. The turbulent rocking of the pod bounced his head from side to side, but his straining eyes never left the promising fold of fabric.

The roar of the rocket had startled Marsh and the others into silence, and they ogled its peculiar flight path. "Something's wrong with it." Marsh muttered to himself. Then he noticed that it was curving around toward them. The impulse to flee crossed his mind, but he had no way of knowing what direction would lead to safety. He stood staring dumbfounded at the noisy bright spectacle. He felt one after another person nudge up against him, and tore his gaze away from the rocket to see that the others were gathering tightly around him. Then the rocket died. He looked up quickly but there was nothing to see, only the fluttering of the ripped sail broke the abrupt silence. The rattling sail danced around above them, giving only a vague clue to what was going on.

The thrust ended abruptly. For a moment Miles felt the stability he craved, but it disappeared instantly, and the wing wrench into a spin. He had no idea where he was, or how much altitude he had to work with. Flecks of light spun around outside the pod wildly. He could not tell the difference between stars and city lights. The spin slowly accelerated and the flecks of light turned to streaks. He was battered, bruised, and confused, but he had to do something. He managed to fight his arms free as the pod released and lowered into position. Eventually he reached out and grabbed the control bar. He realized that the spin was a stalled condition, regardless of how fast it felt he was going. To recover from a spin he needed more speed. He pulled the bar back, and immediately felt the spin slow. He was able to fix on a landmark, a heap of burning debris from the exploded building. He was only two or three hundred feet above the ground.

He glanced at the torn sail for the first time since the rocket had shut off. The sail was badly misshapen, but the trailing edge still held. He might still have a chance. He had reduced the spin to a shallow turn, but he was going to run out of altitude very quickly. He eased forward on the control bar, and the glider arched back up and tore away from the fast approaching ground. It was bleeding off the speed it had built up. It climbed only for a few seconds, but it felt like a major reprieve to Miles, creating more space between him and the ground. As the glider slowed, Miles tried to hold it in a normal flight attitude, but the sail was too badly damaged. The glider turned around the damaged wing despite his attempts to over power the asymmetrical airfoil. He forced his weight as far toward the good side of the glider as he could, but it was not enough to balance the wing. Soon he was in a full-fledged spin again. He knew he had one chance and one chance only, and it depended on perfect timing. He pulled the bar in again, and watched the streaks of light from the burning debris spiral up toward him. At the last moment he pushed the bar out slowly part way, held it for a moment then started easing it back in.

Marsh suddenly caught sight of the glider. It was spinning toward the parking lot not too far away. It seemed to pull out of the spin just in time, and now it was screaming along just above the ground in a shallow turn, a turn that would bring it to the very spot where they all stood. "Move! Everybody this way!" Marsh shouted. He grabbed Jill by the back of her robe and Ann by the arm and sprinted off to the side. He looked over his shoulder,

praying that everyone would get out of the way. To his relief he saw the glider miss Angie, the last in the group to move, by inches as it slid by. It was no longer flying. It skidded along, the pod throwing up sparks as it ground across the pavement. The aluminum frame of the wing crumpling as the weight of the pod dragged it along. Marsh stared in amazement as the crumpled heap scraped by, and slammed into the side of the helicopter. It hit hard enough to jar the huge ship, and Marsh cringed at the impact. It took a moment before it occurred to him to check and see if Miles was still alive. Then another thought occurred to him, Only Miles knew where Ted was, and if he was still alive. He scanned the others, but no one seemed ready to move. He started off toward the wreck, but he moved very slowly, not really sure what he could do. Then he saw movement. He was not sure if it meant life or not, but it inspired him to move more quickly. He reached the wreck to find the pod split open. Miles’ legs dangled out. Jill, Ann, Paul, and Maria were right behind him. Jill gasped and rushed off to throw up upon seeing the raw and broken condition of Miles legs. One had a compound fracture at the shin and the lower part of the leg was twisted around at a grotesque angle. Both legs were striped of most of the skin and softly oozed blood. Marsh pried open what was left of the pod. Paul and Maria eased the damaged body clear of the wreckage. No one seemed to know what should be done next. Ben stepped in and felt the throat for a pulse. Ben stayed motionless for a long time, and then looked back at Marsh. "He is still alive. There is a pulse here."

"I can fix that." Ted sneered from a few feet away. He held his hands in front as if he were praying. His hands had been bleeding badly from having the glass shard ripped from them, and he had pressed them together to try to stop the bleeding. His hair and clothing were singed, and he looked near death, but he was still on his feet. Everyone's attention turned to Ted. He had a malicious set to his jaw, and the blood that stained his hands, face, and clothes was paled by the blazing hatred in his eyes. His expression suddenly changed, and he dropped to his knees, his energy suddenly gone. A startled scream resounded from the front of the helicopter. Rose stood there with Mike and Thomas flanking either shoulder. She was staring at Miles, his eyes were open and he weakly trained his forty-five at Ted. "No!" she screamed. Everyone stepped away from Miles reflexively. Miles forced a grin. It was all he could do to hold the gun in position. With his last ounce of energy he pulled the trigger. The gun dropped, and Miles' eyes glazed over for the last time. "No!" Rose screamed again, and raced toward Ted.

Ted knew what was coming, and there was nothing he could do. He closed his eyes and waited. BANG, but he did not feel the bullet. Miles could not have missed. They were only five feet apart. He probed his body with his mind, but he could feel no wound. He opened his eyes cautiously, and there, a few inches in front of his face floated the bullet.

Tanya stepped up and plucked it out of the air, and turned it over in her fingers studying it. Then she tossed it over her shoulder. "You need a Doctor." She commented flatly to Ted. Ted had pushed his energy reserves too far. As his eyes rolled up he saw his friends spin around him. Then, once again, everything went black. Tanya snagged his limp body with her mental force, and barely prevented his face from smashing into the pavement as he fell forward. Table of Contents

Commiseration Chapter 23

Ted awoke two days later with a serious case of deja vu. He quickly realized that he was in the same hospital room that he had stayed in the last time. Ruke lay asleep in the next bed, just as before, and an unkempt Rose sat in the chair next to him. He had to shake the eerie feeling from his head to make sure it was not part of some incredible dream. Rose held his hand between hers, and her head rested firmly on top of their hands. Her heavy and rhythmic breathing evoked a memory of when their problems had been less serious. He pictured Rose sitting across the table sighing at a breathtaking desert sunset. A moment later everything flooded back into his memory. He lifted his free hand, and saw it was wrapped in gauze. The shard of broken glass had cut his hands. He tried but could not tell if his other hand was similarly wrapped. His senses did not seem to be functioning properly. Fisk's jamming device? A moment of apprehension washed through him, but he let it pass. He stroked Rose's tangled long red hair tenderly. She stirred, and then jerked her head up. "Ted, oh Ted!" Her worried face suddenly glowed with relief, and a broad smile shaped her lips. A moment later tears ran down around the corners of her mouth. She wanted to hug him, but she was afraid she might cause him more pain. Ted reached up and pulled her to him. He kissed her lightly, and then held her head next to his. He could hear her soft sobbing, and knew she was releasing all the pressure she had held in check while waiting for him to wake. She would be okay in a minute or two, but Ted could feel himself weakening already. He needed some answers,

though, before he could allow fatigue to drag away his consciousness. "How's Ruke?" His gravely voice surprised him, and he cleared his throat. Before he could ask again, Rose leaned forward and put her fingers over his lips. She wiped the tears from her face, and pulled her head back. "He's going to be all right. Actually he's in better shape than you are." She held her voice to a whisper, so as not to awaken Ruke. "Fisk?" Ted's voice sounded terrible to him, and it hurt to talk. "He's going to be okay too. He was in intensive care for a few hours, but the doctors say he'll be fine in a week or two." She answered. "He saved us." Ted winced, and could not believe the effort involved in just trying to speak. Rose cut him off again, trying to keep him from taxing himself too much. She reached over and pressed the nurse's call button. "Yes Tanya and George told us all about the little ball." Rose flinched at the thought of having to put that thing in her nose. The nurse walked in. She must have been right outside the door to get there so quickly. She walked over to Rose and nodded. She pulled a needle out of her pocket while she stood behind Rose, and injected the sedative into his intravenous feed line. Then she took Ted's wrist and checked his pulse. "Milesssss?" Ted faded off into oblivion without an answer. "Stuff works real fast, huh?" The nurse commented as she gently put Ted's wrist back on the bed. Rose nodded, but she was too consumed with emotions to pay much attention to anyone else. They had only had a moment together.

This time Ted woke to the hushed voices of Ruke and Marsh. "I told you you'd wake him." Rose chastised the other two. They instantly became silent. "How do you feel?" Rose purred, smiling warmly. She looked much more fresh than before. Her hair was combed and tied back into a large full ponytail. Ted liked it that way. "Better." His scratchy throat hurt again. "Thirsty." He looked at Ruke and Marsh while Rose poured a glass of water for him. "Hi guys." His gruff voice sounded extremely coarse. "Hey, gläd to see you bäck ämong the living." Ruke offered. "Hello son, you had us all worried there for a while." Marsh added. Rose propped up his head with her hand, and held the cup to his lips. "Try not to talk any more than you have to." She cautioned. "I'll tell you everything that's happened. Doctor Fisk would like to see you. When you are up to it, in a day or two will be fine." Ted's questioning look triggered Rose into trying to answer, before he asked. "He's recovering very quickly. You've been here for four days." Ted's eyes went wide. Had he already lost four days? What had he missed? What about Miles and his army? This time Marsh jumped in, trying to keep him from speaking. "Miles is dead." Marsh cleared his throat solemnly, and then continued. "His soldiers have disappeared, but I don't know how hard anyone is looking for them. Surprisingly everything has been pretty quiet since that night. We still don't know who was behind it all though." Ted wished his throat did not hurt so much. He looked up to Rose and mouthed the word water. She got the cup and propped him up.

Marsh smiled. "Thanks to Rose I think we'll have some breathing room for a while." Ted looked questioningly back and forth between Marsh and Rose. Marsh continued explaining. "The press picked up on the fact that you and Ruke have been laid up in the hospital, twice in the last thirty days, with serious injuries, including gun shot wounds. They haven't figured anything out yet, but the speculation is running rampant. Everything from the idea that you two are a super secret agent team, to some sort of Hollywood stunt for a new movie." Marsh continued after a quick chuckle, and a glance at Ruke. "Yesterday Rose decided we needed some legal support. She went out and recruited Marsha Wortaly." Ted swiveled his head and pointed a 'how did you do that' expression at Rose. She looked a bit embarrassed. "I went to see her, thinking a little talk wouldn't hurt. If I happened to drop a few hints about where those files had come from, well. As it turned out I didn't need to do any persuading. She's got talent. She's like me, a little health sense, a little telepathy, and a little kinetic ability. I invited her to meet some of the group, and, well, she's one of us now. She's putting some pressure on the local authorities to protect us from whoever it is that's after us." Rose stopped her explanation for a second. "We really did need a lawyer." She added a little defensively. Ted's face screwed up into an indefinable expression. Rose pulled back in apprehension. Then he broke out in a grating laugh, and was instantly joined by Ruke and Marsh. Rose was not sure how to take their mirth, and reacted timidly. Ted took her hand, pulled it up to his lips, and kissed it. Then he mouthed the words 'I love you.' Rose immediately brightened and got him some more water for his throat. She could tell his laugh had taken its toll.

Marsh left, and Ruke rolled over to sleep, Ted lay contentedly gazing into Rose's eyes until he faded off to sleep a few minutes later.

"Muht, muhay amout myor mad?" Ted's question was garbled as it had to make its way around a mouth full of pastrami. Rose scowled at him for being so rude. He shrugged and continued to stuff the delicious, non-hospital, food into his mouth. Rose had gotten good at reading Ted though, and she knew what he had tried to say. "Daddy? Oh, he'll understand." "Mo, myou maven mold mim myet?" Ted added with an accusing glance, and stopped chewing for a moment. Again she scowled, and then turned coy. "Well, No, I haven't exactly had a chance to talk to him yet." She looked away, and then turned back abruptly. "But he'll do anything for me! I'm his little muffin girl." Ted choked, and Rose had to roll him over and pat his back to help him clear his throat. When Ted had finally recovered, he rolled back and smiled wolfishly. "Take a look in the mirror Babe. You're not a little muffin girl anymore. You've grown into a fully frosted cake, and fathers get real weird about their daughter's boyfriends." Ted watched her redden slightly at his reference to her sexuality. "Have you contacted your uncle Talbert yet, or are you afraid of him too?" Rose flashed an indignant sneer. "I'm not afraid of either one of them." Her nostrils flared, and her green eyes darkened a shade. "Then let's call them right now." Ted grabbed the phone on the table between the beds, and pushed it toward her.

"No!" She blurted, then cooled down a little and ignored the proffered phone. "It’s a matter of timing." Ted chuckled, and put the phone back on the nightstand. "Say, you never did tell me what your dad does. Is he with the company too? Like a family thing?" Rose hem-hawed. "Well, uh, heeee, he's retired, sorta." "Retired, am I. Your mother'd have a firm talking with you if she heard that." Duncan Mackenzie stood in the doorway, with an all too serious look on his face. "Do you know how long I've been looking for you young lady?" "Daddy! Daddy?" Her jubilation upon seeing her father was short lived. She was caught in a tight situation, between her father and her lover. It suddenly occurred to her just how dangerous a situation this could be. She sat and quietly watched both men, much less certain of her status than she had been a moment earlier. "It’s been months since we've heard from you?" Duncan chastised Rose. The flash of his green eyes enhanced the warning. Before she could respond, he turned to Ted. "Mister Phillips. Do you realize how much you have cost me?" Ted swallowed deeply remembering the last time he had seen Duncan Mackenzie. It had been in Marsh's office, after he had pulled that stupid prank on Rose. "Mister Mackenzie." Ted stammered, and then glanced at Rose. She sat quietly unwilling to step in with explanations. "You're her . . . she's your . . . you . . . I . . ." The implications sank into Ted's brain swiftly. He lay there with the woman he loved at his side. That part was wonderful, but the rest was a real nightmare. Rose's father was Duncan Mackenzie, who owned the company that had sponsored the project that Ted had taken away. A project the company had dumped hundreds of thousands of dollars into. At the same time he had

managed to entice the company's head of personnel away, as well as the owner's daughter. And he had managed to put all their lives in danger as well. Duncan Mackenzie was a man of great power, and Ted was just a guy who had a knack with electronics, and trouble. He glanced at Rose again. His eyes were filled with trepidation. She just sat constantly glancing down at her hands in her lap. "Relax Mister Phillips, I've been advised by counsel not to discuss business." Ted was surprised at how little animosity he heard in Mackenzie's voice. "Rose, come with me." Rose glanced sharply at her father, but his firm voice and stance cuffed any response. Rose looked mournfully at Ted, and then started to rise. "Wait a minute!" Ted blurted, realizing there was not much he could do to worsen his situation. He reached out and took Rose's hand and pulled her back into her seat. He was rewarded with a sparkle in her eyes, and that was all it took to charge up his courage. "Your daughter and I . . ." Ted continued with his eyes locked on Rose. She beamed. He had taken a stance for her. Suddenly, he was not sure what to say. Rose had misled him about her father. "We need a moment alone. Would you excuse us for a few minutes?" Rose paled realizing what Ted wanted to discuss. The stern tone in Ted's voice was aimed at her and not her father. She glanced back and forth between the two men, not sure which she would rather face. Duncan looked at the two of them. He had spent a few minutes talking the situation over with Marsh, and was astute enough to assume correctly what Ted and Rose had to discuss, and a smile grew across his face until all his teeth showed. "Give her hell boy!" He winked, and stepped out closing the door behind him. Rose stared after her father in disbelief.

Ted and Rose studied each other in silence for a moment. "So, you're rich?" Ted asked. "Yes very!" A flicker of hope bloomed then withered. "Does that make a difference?" She asked with concern invading her features. Ted sat there for a long moment before he broke the silence. "Yeah, it makes a difference." She had expected him to be happy, even excited, but not angry. "But . . ." Her face drained of color with her stunned reply. "When were you going to tell me? After we got married? What other secrets haven't you told me? Does that mean you're afraid of me too? Are you afraid of all men?" "I'm not afraid of . . . hey, did you just propose,” Rose recalled that night by the van, when he had mentioned children’s names, “again?" Rose inquired sounding surprised. Ted allowed a smile to cover his face. "I'm not buttin’ heads with a man like Duncan Mackenzie till I know whether or not you'll say yes." Rose shifted gears so smoothly it took Ted by surprise. She leaned over putting her face in front of his, and stared deeply into his eyes for a moment, then put her lips next to his ear. "Yes, of course yes!"

Now if you think these two lived happily ever after, you haven’t been paying attention.

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