The exploits and adventures of Roscoe Blunt, a super hero who is constantly thwarting the dastardly efforts of the bad guys.
Standing under the flashing neon sign the shadows leaped across the face first revealing a satin glow then nothing. He sat there entranced by the mystery of this dark figure dressed in black from head to toe. Roscoe Blunt had a gut feeling that he was about to step into some serious crap.
Three weeks prior, the Genco Corporation concerning the theft of trade secrets and hardware (the hardware being one of two prototype models) had contacted Roscoe. These thefts could cause irreparable harm to the corporation’s bottom line as well as threatening the national security.
Genco was under contract from the government to develop sensitive tracking technology. This technology was to be used to track, scan, and if necessary terminate the subjects of concern. The targeted subjects were illegal aliens, troublesome or thought to be troublesome Muslims and suspected terrorists. Genco placed the recovery of any and all items in Roscoe’s “hands”.
After Roscoe’s initial investigation, the circumstantial evidence pointed to an “inside” job. But the most pressing question was how could this be as each employee was not only interrogated, psychoanalyzed, background checked all the way back to his or her grandparents. Any blot, glitch, or bump during this selection process caused the applicant to be dismissed and their profile placed on a persona non grata list.
Nancy C had arrived at Roscoe’s apartment just for their usual “catch it if you can” candle light dinner. Nancy C was a beautiful, well proportioned five feet five with auburn hair, green eyes and an athletic body. Retired from the navy as a Lt. Commander, under honorable conditions at the age of thirty-five left her unsatisfied. To seek the satisfaction she had and the excitement of being a naval combat pilot, she became a liaison officer with the U.S. State department. This position demanded she travel out of the country for extended periods of time, without notice-she was a troubleshooter.
“Hi sweetie happy valentines day,” Roscoe said as he embraced and kissed her passionately and offered her a box of her favorite chocolates. “Hi yourself.” she said in return. After a scotch for Roscoe and white wine for Nancy C they sat down to a full course dinner featuring cracked crab, wilted spinach salad, Rodney Strong’s “Charlotte’s Home” Sauvignon Blanc and with dessert waiting.
During dinner the conversation turned to Nan’s (Roscoe’s name for Nancy C) recent travels to the mid-east with a stop in Caracas. Roscoe asked Nan “What is the temperament of the officials with respect our decision to cut off all oil purchases and stifle Citgo?” Nan replied, “It is like a pot ready boil over with all of the contents spreading throughout Central America and Cuba.
No mistaking that the innuendo from Chavez is that if we do not change our position, a flood of illegal immigrants will inundate the Southwest, which would increase the danger of terrorist attacks”. “Through the back door, we are aware that Chavez talked with the kingpin of the drug cartel in Venezuela and an official of Hamas in Lebanon”. “Do you know who this Hamas character is?” asked Roscoe. “No, but the CIA is on the hunt; rumor has it that it is most likely Ali Ben-Saud, a known terrorist”, she answered.
“So what have you been up to, Ros?” (Nan’s short for Roscoe). “Just a little detective work for Genco”. “As you know, Genco has several government contracts, which need some scrutiny with respect to security”. “As a member of the State department you must be aware of the theft that has recently occurred. It is vital that these items be recovered soon”. Nan said “I was just made aware but I was not aware you are involved” The conversation continued with each appreciating the candlelight and soft music. As dinner was over it was now time for dessert…
Chavez was in his typical anti American mood having a tirade over the falling economic condition of Venezuela. His oil export has declined to an all time low; unemployment was at an all time high at 56 percent. Civil war was looming and Chavez’s social society was about to crumble.
“We must take drastic steps to stave off our government’s collapse,” yelled Chavez to his defense minister Paola Avina. Chavez continued “I need action not words, so come back with plans to force the Americans to reconsider their position-you have one week!” Chavez turned to his oil minister, Juan Diaz and asked; ”What is our situation concerning oil exports?” Diaz replied; “Our exports have fallen by four million barrels per day resulting in an average daily revenue loss of two hundred and forty million American dollars. Also, Citgo has been fined two million dollars per day for violating U.S. environmental laws and all outlets have been closed until the law has been adhered to and all fines paid”. His fist twice pounding the desk Chavez stormed out of the room.
Ali Ben-Saud sat at in an alcove of a downtown bistro sipping a cup of coffee and reading an email from his covert contact in the U.S. Neither Ali or his contact had never met face to face nor did they know each other’s name. All contact was done via the Internet with a high degree of re-routing so as not to divulge a particular address or location.
The email read “have merchandise located and will have in hand on the Feb 25. Advise time, method and location of delivery. Need to ship within 48 hours”.
Ali responded with “will contact.”
The merchandise was the design and programming software and the first prototype of the Genco TST model 101 Track, Scan and Terminate pulse-analyzer.
The TST is state of the art for not only it’s functional attributes but also for its size. Weighing only four pounds and with an overall length 0f 12 inches it is designed for use as a tactical field weapon, crowd suppressor and identification using DNA and physical profile comparison.
Each device is individually programmed to the users DNA thereby limiting and assuring operation only by the user to whom the device was originally issued. It is a self-contained CO2 pulse laser with three-power settings-stun, terminate and destroy. A two-terabyte database of profiles and DNA values, with any value or profile displayed on a business card size backlit screen at a speed of 512 gigahertz.
In the SCAN mode-The subject is scanned for hidden weapons, explosives, chemicals and nuclear devices at a distance of 50 yards. The subjects profile is immediately compared to the existing database. With a positive I.D, the user can either disable the subject with the STUN setting or TERMINATE if required. The DESTROY mode is designed for use on the battle field as the power is such that at 100 yards it can disable any object as large as five ton truck.
Anxious to take delivery, Ali Ben-Saud’s thought was-“it will be worth millions on the underground or black market” and the great Satan will die”.
Roscoe was sitting in the office of Jason James, CEO of Genco waiting for the CEO to appear. Joy Darling entered with coffee in hand and said to Roscoe, ”Mr. James will be a few minutes”. Joy had been with Genco for ten years and worked her way from receptionist to the CEO’s administration assistant.
Joy was a tall slender woman with graying hair, small wire frame glasses and masculine features. She dressed impeccably. She was not pretty but she was efficient.
As Roscoe finished his coffee Jason James entered and sat behind his desk. James asked, ”have you made any progress?” “No, not much but I’m optimistic that I will have a lead soon. I am in the middle of reviewing the 72 employees; managers and executives who have or had access to the programs and hardware. Each of these 72 and any of their associates or contacts at work or away from work is and will be interrogated and investigated as we speak. My gut feeling is that a weapon of this nature has attracted the worst of the anti American culture. Within that culture we will find the thief. TST in the hands of any of our adversaries will be catastrophic”.
With the meeting ended, Roscoe made his exit and headed for his office.
Avina, the defense minister, knocked and entered the President Chavez’s office. In a stern voice the president asked, ”Do you have a plan?” “Yes, but it is a dangerous and not at all guaranteed to succeed.” If it does not succeed then we may be placed in a more vulnerable position-it is the best plan your cabinet members are able to propose.”
“Explain in detail “, Chavez demanded stonily. Avina continued,“Through Alberto Sanchez, the drug entrepreneur (Avina smiling) we contacted our man in Beirut, Ali. Ben-Saud. Our request that he suggest methods, by which we could place the Americans in a negotiating position with respect to our economic problem, was received with great joy. This joy was compounded when we offered to compensate his efforts, upon success, in the amount of two hundred and fifty million American dollars-half up front and the balance upon a successful change in the American position. This financial arrangement is of course subject to your approval”.
Ali stated,”He is about take delivery of certain merchandise that will allow, with proper planning, the complete shut down of the New York Stock Exchange by destroying all computers, internet connections and a major portion of the exchange’s hardware at about 10:30 on the 28th. An explosion, at about 15:30 hours (Washington time), will follow this at the Capitol building destroying both chambers of congress and any occupants therein”.
“Upon completion of this destruction Ali will have made arrangements to fly to Havana via private charter where we will arrange to have Ali placed aboard one of our ships for transport to Caracas”. “Here he may collect the balance of his payment and discuss the sale of this merchandise to our government. Ali assures us that anyone or any country in control of the merchandise will enhance their military effectiveness as well as total control over the population”. “How do we know if this merchandise is what he says it is?” Chevez asked with doubt. Avina answered, “Ali says the act he will perform will be a demonstration of its ability and effectiveness”.
Chavez stood up and said to Avina, “Call him tell him to perform at his earliest convenience but not later than the 28th of this month. The initial deposit will wired to an account of his choice-and code it! -And God help us if this fails!”
Ali just finished reading the text message from Caracas, which read “We have accepted your proposal for derrick construction and agree with your analysis of the cost. Our agreement must be executed no later than Feb 28th. Please advise instruction for deposit”. Ali immediately destroyed the cell phone.
Next he sent an email, with the usual security features, to his contact in the states which read “must take delivery of merchandise on 24 February will advise time upon my arrival”.
Ali then set about selecting his disguise, appropriate business documents and proper passport for his flight from Tel Aviv (he would drive to Tel Aviv) to Reagan International via Houston, Texas. His cover- Abraham Perelman a construction adviser and designer of oil drilling equipment.
The fifth or sixth cup of coffee was steaming next to Roscoe. He had been up all night scanning all databases he had access to and some that he should have had legal access to, after all a little hacking was good for the soul. Out of the 72 subjects one had to be the inside “guy”.
That inside guy had to be able to locate and transport the stolen items through the many security stops within Genco. The laptop was automatically scrolling through the Genco personnel database when it abruptly paused and a message appeared “next two files level one ACCESS DENIED – top clearance required with pass code” a few seconds later the scrolling resumed. Roscoe pondered why these two files were classified as Jason James had stated that all employee files were assessable from this database.
Roscoe, being retired from the FBI for 2 years, was now operating as a federal security specialist and sometimes consulting expert for the FBI. Consequently, he still had contacts on which he could call to obtain certain info. Roscoe picked up the phone and dialed the number of the deputy director, a friend and mentor-Jake Sutro. Jake was always in the office by seven AM. Jake answered the phone and acknowledged Roscoe “ Hey buddy what’s the reason you’re not sleeping in being retired and all?”
Roscoe answered, “ Jake I have a real problem shaking out who might be involved in the theft at Genco. I am querying all databases and the Genco database gives me no help except it shows two files protected as top secret-and access denied. I need you to give me some indication who and what these files affect. It may be my only lead”. There was a pause-then Jake let out a deep breath and said, “I’m sorry buddy, but I can’t help on this one. It is a matter of National Security and with top level need to know basis.” Roscoe responded, “Hell! Jake you know what was stolen and the loss of these items directly affect our national security, so give me something-anything!”
Another pause-then Jake said,” I will give you two facts and you will have to go from there”. “Fact-one of the files relates to a special employee at Genco”. Fact-the other file relates to a government official”. “That’s all I can say”. “Not much but it’s better than nothing; thanks Jake”. Roscoe dropped the phone in its cradle, cupped his face in his hands and let out a sigh of exhaustion.
A few moments later Nan entered and tapped Roscoe on the shoulder saying, ”What is wrong-do you have a hangover?’ Ros barked, ”Hell no I’m up a creek with no paddle!” Damned if I can find just one crumb of a lead in this Genco case. Every possible employee has been checked and rechecked. All have decent alibis for the date in question. My gut feeling is that something is going to go down soon. It is too tight-there is always a loose end somewhere”.
Nan responded, “You just may be right. I just left a meeting at NSA and there is chatter and some intercepted messages. The messages are both telephone and Internet but they haven’t been traced. Each has to do with delivery of merchandise and the conclusion of negotiations concerning oil-drilling equipment. Sounds legit on the surface.” She continued, ”I am scheduled for a joint meeting with NSA and OHS at 13:30. I will do some checking and if I learn anything new from NSA or OHS I’ll call you immediately”. She bent down and kissed Ros on the cheek and departed.
Roscoe headed for his “Q” room, the question and quarantine room. Here the subjects are quarantined until they answered questions to Roscoe’s satisfaction. This was the last go-round and the shipping department manager, Gordy Ames, was the last to be re-questioned.
“Gordy, we need to go through this again. I want you to describe in detail the procedure to ship any item from Genco and be specific do not leave anything out regardless of how unimportant you may think it is”. “Look”, Gordy said with disgust, “ I have gone over this three times!” “One more time”, Roscoe retorted. “Okay-okay”. “All shipments or packages regardless of how small or how large flow in to the shipping room via the same conveyor. The packages are either classified or non-classified. Non-classified is routine company shipments requiring no “certificates of authority to release”; these are stamped with date released and addressed and placed either on Genco vehicles or in a pick up area for UPS or Fedex or perhaps any private courier.
The majority is usually placed private courier, as they are time sensitive and delivery point is in the Washington area. The classified items are sorted by zip code, the “certificate of authority to release” commonly called a “cert” which is attached is removed, stamped with the sorter’s initials and sent to me for signature of receipt. All of the classified items are pre-addressed by the sender or department head. Then the item is placed in a secure area to await a bonded delivery service”. Gordy continued, “so you see there is no way for classified package to be smuggled out”. “Can any body or department send a package as classified?” asked Roscoe. “Nope”, responded Gordy. “All classified packages come from only the TST design and test department.
The most secure department in the company”. “So”, Roscoe said, there is no way a classified article can be smuggled from Genco?” “Not that I can think of.” After a few moments of pause, Gordy blurted “Unless, yes-unless the “cert” was removed intentionally and the package placed in the unclassified holding area after the end of the day”. ”Each package is x-rayed before placing it in its proper “outgoing bin”; means the package had to be placed there after all personnel left for the day”.
”Damn! That’s how it got out!” Roscoe said excitedly. He continues, “A helluva’ security oversight-I want to see every delivery address and every sender of every department for the last 45 days and I want them yesterday!” “Can do”, blurted Gordy as he reached into his CD file and offered a CD to Roscoe who grabbed it and headed for his office.
Luckily the CD was up to date with the listings of all shipments. He opened the file and transferred all data over to another CD database which had all known businesses with their addresses for a distance of 50 miles from Genco. He then set up the program to compare all the shipping addresses to the known database in hopes of finding an address and telephone number, which did not match.
After a few seconds, three addresses appeared, which had no match. He started to call each number the first number answered as J&J Components. Roscoe answered and stated the he was calling to ensure that the items shipped from Genco had arrived and if there were any questions concerning such. The voice on the other end said, “Let me check with our customer service division”, The voice came back and said, “yes, we received the bad components and replacements are being prepared for shipment to you.” “Thank you”, Roscoe chimed.
The second number was called and the standard message came over “sorry this number is no longer in service”. He called the third number and it proved to be legit, as it was a paper supplier. Aha, he thought, O.K. number two we are on your ass now! He wrote the address down and placed it in his shirt pocket. He then headed for a meeting with Jason James. After entering James’s office, Joy entered as she had at every meeting, with coffeepot in hand. Over the past several weeks Joy and Roscoe developed a very friendly relationship. They carried on light conversation until James entered. Joy left closing the door behind her.
Well, what news do you have for me? Asked James. “Good and some not so good”, Roscoe answered. “We know how and when the items left Genco-we know where the package went, we know it was done by someone who has access or can arrange access to the TST department and the shipping area after hours. We know it was shipped yesterday. We don’t know who this individual is or could be. Since we do know the address to which the package was delivered I intend to place surveillance at that address, which happens to be a postal annex, and wait until we can determine the thief’s identity”.
“Once we have made the ID he will be followed to see if the package is passed on to someone else or if the thief keeps the package.” “To do this I will need a way to quickly identify all involved. Knowing that the items are most likely in the original package will attach a name to the thief as soon as he is spotted. So, the only tool I know is available is the second prototype of the TST”. “So, I would like to use it until this surveillance is over and the other TST and software is recovered”. “I want to have its data base loaded with all Genco employees profiles as well as all profiles of known or suspected terrorist”. “Will you agree and will you do the database loading and programming me as the operator?” I want only you and I to know of this”.
James answered, “That’s asking a helluva’ lot, Blunt. You may be cleared for top secret but this idea of yours would put you in full control of the only TST that we have”. “That’s true”, remarked Roscoe. “But its either this or we may not be able to retrieve the stolen items before they are either sold or used to create a lot of havoc-your call”. James mused for a few moments over the implications and then offered to provide Roscoe with the second TST but with a quick modification. James further remarked, “The stock of the TST will be modified to accommodate a timed fail-safe device, which will destroy the TST after 24 hours from the time of operator programming and the terminate/destroy mode will be deactivated”.
James stated, “It is now 1:15 be back here by 4 PM and the unit will be ready and we will program you to operate.” James continued, “If this scheme falls, all hell is going break loose from Washington and Genco will be history!”
With thanks, Roscoe took his leave and headed for his office.
Abraham Perelman disembarked from his flight and headed toward the public phone booths. Finding a vacant one, he dialed a designated number to his U.S. contact. The voice answered, “Yes?” Perelman responded, ”I have arrived in Houston. I will take delivery of the subject merchandise after early prayer services tomorrow. Be at the loading entrance to the Al Majallah mosque tomorrow at 07:00. Leave the merchandise in its original shipping container It must be opened when we meet so that I can be sure it is as you represented”.
Continuing he said, “Two hundred thousand dollars as payment in full will be given to you at that time. You will know me by the red scarf I wear around my neck. Carry the package by your left hand as you approach me so that I may know you are the one”. “Do you understand?” The voice replied, “Yes”. Perelman replaced the handset and headed for the baggage claim area. He thought if an attempt to monitor calls from the airport it could only be traced to that public phone booth.
Nan was waiting in his office when Roscoe arrived. “Well how did your meetings go?” Ros asked. “As well as any can go with everyone trying to politically cover their ass”, Nan retorted. “I did glean some very important info that may be of help to you, Ros”.
“Give”, Ros said. “As I told you earlier there has been chatter and messages between Caracas to Beirut-Beirut to Caracas, Rockville, (Maryland) to Beirut and Beirut to Rockville. Most of the messages have been deciphered but haven’t yet been traced to the source”. “The most interesting part is that each message contains the word “merchandise”. “The messages to and from Caracas talks about the merchandise to be used in the Caracas oil industry and the contract or negotiations must be done no later than the 28th”.
“The messages from Beirut to Rockville only talks about taking delivery of merchandise”. “If we take into account that Chavez’s government is in deep “do-do”, both economically and social wise and needs a way out. Plus, taking into account the theft from Genco, I’m thinking; is it reaching too far to expect some collusion between Chavez’s regime and a terrorist organization from the Middle East?” “Remember, all of this is happening in the time frame of date of theft to today”. A catastrophic attack on vital parts of our economy would put Chavez in a more strategic position to negotiate a change in our policy”.
Ros mused over her thoughts for a minute or so then snapping his fingers said, “ You may not be stretching as far as you think”. Let’s put what I know together with what you think and look at an answer”. “Okay”, Nan said but let me give you another piece of a puzzle. “Immigration in Houston informed OHS that a passenger arriving from Tel Aviv by the name of Abraham Perelman, an oil construction consultant and design engineer arrived there at about 15:30 Houston time. His ticket shows a second leg to the Reagan National airport for arrival late tonight and he had purchased a round trip ticket from Tel Aviv”.
Ros laid out what he knew-“We know when, where and how the items were stolen. And we are quite certain we know where the items are now. It so happens that where we think they are in Rockville is at an all night postal annex waiting for pickup”. “So it does appear a real probable link between the thief and Perelman”.
“In order to verify this, we are going to set up surveillance at the postal annex in hopes we can spot and track the thief to whatever end he has in mind”. Ros continued, “I have to be at Genco at 16:00 to pick up some needed tools for the surveillance”. “From there I will head for Rockville, so wish me luck”. “Hopefully I will have this thing put to bed within the next twenty-four hours”. They both stood up-Nan gave Ros a hug saying, ”be careful and I’m holding you to our dinner date tomorrow night. My place this time”. She turned and Ros watched her swing through the door.
James and Roscoe were the only people in the lab. The TST, having been modified, was lying on the table in front of Roscoe.
James had taken a swab from Roscoe and injected into the DNA cell located on the TST. Previously having been interconnected to the laptop a series of red, yellow and green LED lights began cycling then abruptly stop with a slight sound and then all lights went out. “Okay, you are now the only operator of one of he most powerful hand held weapons in the world!” Pointing- James said “Now let’s go through that door and I will check you out on its operation.” After the checkout session, Roscoe put the TST in his briefcase and departed for Rockville.
The surveillance was in place at 18:00. Employees of Genco did not leave before and sometimes after 17:30. Since the evidence pointed toward an employee of some level this seemed to be the right time to be in place. Roscoe had been trapped in his van, which was parked parallel with the Annex’s entrance but about 30 yards up the street. He had no one to relieve him, as the secrecy of this theft was paramount. So, he ate Subway sandwiches and took pee breaks in the urine bottle, which was always in the van.
For the last 13 or so hours he watched through glasses for a person coming out of the annex with a Genco package. His thought at this point was to break off and start again tomorrow. Then the figure in black appeared and stopped at the street corner next to the annex. After a few moments, the figure entered the annex. A short while later it reappeared carrying what looked like a Genco package. Roscoe quickly keyed on the TST in the Scan mode. Instantly a profile picture was displayed on the small screen, which made Roscoe almost go into shock! “Not possible” he muttered.
The profile was that of Joy Darling, trusted confidant and assistant to Jason James! Roscoe placed the TST on the seat next to him and started the engine waiting for Joy to pull away from the curb in her SUV. He followed Joy to a motel on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington. She parked, locked the car and taking the package entered the door labeled “check in”. A few minutes later she reappeared walked across the parking area and entered room number 211. Roscoe parked so that he had a clear view of room 211. He then went to the lobby.
Using his federal credentials he inquired about the woman in 211. The night clerk a fat guy, in a rumpled robe, stated, ”She is in for the night with a wake up call for 6:00 AM”. Roscoe cautioned him to keep his mouth shut under threat of criminal conspiracy charges. The fat guy responded, “Hey man no problem”. Roscoe returned to his van set his alarm watch for 05:30 then closed his eyes for a short but needed rest.
The watch alarm buzzed at precisely at 0530, Roscoe attempted to rub the sleep from his eyes and then drank the dregs of cold coffee from his thermos, took a bite of the stale “sub” but the pasty mouth remained. He turned on the radio and listening to his favorite jazz station, he waited.
The door to room 211 opened, he glanced at his watch and it was 06:20. Joy closed the door turned and headed for the street carrying a shopping bag.
In the meantime Perelman, standing just inside of an opening of the loading entrance, in his mind, was going over his plan for the day:
06:00 prayer at the Mosque
07:00 take possession of the merchandise.
07:45 the programming completed.
10:45 At the NYSE via helicopter and Rhaschid better be on time.
15:00 At the Capitol building via return copter.
15:30 The deed done, package the merchandise and head to the municipal airport for charter to Havana.
With Allah’s help all pieces will fit and the great Satan will die. And I will become a very rich man.
Joy walked Northwest on Pennsylvania Avenue toward number 1331, the Mosque. Roscoe, carrying the TST housed in its case, followed at a discreet distance on foot.
At the corner of the Mosque before turning to the loading entrance, Joy reached into to the shopping bag, removed the Genco package. After discarding the bag she placed the package for carrying by her left arm.
During this time, Roscoe removed the TST from its case, placed it in the Scan mode. The scan mode also could perform as a ten mega-pixel digital camera by simply depressing a switch next to its display screen. He positioned himself so that he had a full and clear view of openings at the loading entrance.
Perelman’s thoughts were quelled as he caught sight of a tall figure with a package in its left hand, shuffling toward him. Perelman stepped through the opening and started walking toward the figure so that the figure could see the identifying red scarf. During this short walk, Roscoe was snapping many pictures.
At the moment when Joy and Perelman met, Joy removed her sunglasses and said to Perelman, ”Before you open the package place the payment at my feet and back away”. “I will then place the package on the ground and I will back away with the payment and you may approach the package and open it. I will check the payment and if satisfied, take it and go.
If you attempt anything at all, such as trying to retrieve the payment or if the payment is not correct, I will spread your brains all over the wall-I have a 357 magnum in my right pocket trained as we speak”. After hearing this, Perelman knew the voice and the eyes were familiar. He said, “ I thought I recognized you-you are Mariana Lopez; formerly of the Hamas cell quartered in Arlington.” “ We thought you were dead”. Joy retorted, “Well I’m not, so do what you have to do and go!”
Roscoe, at the moment of transfer and the closing of the Genco package, with the TST on Stun, rushed across the street and triggered it. Joy dropped to the ground quivered for a few seconds then lay still. When Perllman saw Roscoe approaching and Joy falling he pulled a 9mm H&K P30 from his shoulder holster and trained it on Roscoe’s upper torso; at that moment Roscoe saw Perllman’s head disintegrate throwing parts of brain and bone against the wall of the Mosque.
Roscoe whipped his head around wishing he had the Terminate mode of the TST activated! What he saw momentarily shocked him. Just across the street was the one of the weaknesses in his life, Nancy C. Nan spoke first, “Hey you know the cavalry is always in time”. Ros responded, “What in the hell are you doing following me and where did you get that hunk of iron?” ”On the other hand thanks!” “I’ll explain everything over dinner this evening, at my place 20:00 sharp-gotta go” “The cleanup boys from OHS and the CIA will be here in five”. Nan turned and ran to a black sedan climbed in the rear door and sped away.
Roscoe quickly went to Perelman’s body took a swab from what was left of his head and he took a swab from Joy, injected them into the DNA cell on the TST. He picked up the Genco package, the payment pouch and his TST and left the scene before the Feds were on scene.
James entered his office and saw that Roscoe had several packages next to him on the sofa. Not knowing what they were he proceeded to ask if Roscoe had any news and had Roscoe heard the morning news.
Roscoe answered, “Yes and no but what’s in the morning news?” James continued, “There was a murder at the Al Majallah Mosque in Washington this morning. Some guy got his head blown off”. According to the report a woman was unconscious next to the body and she was taken to Walter Reed hospital.” James continued with, “ Women-Joy has not shown up today, which is a first. She hasn’t been late in years”. “Okay, what news do you have for me?”
Roscoe responded by asking, “will you please set up your laptop to retrieve all the data in the unit you let me use?” “Without going into detail right now I just want you to view what I have captured with the TST”.
James agreed and attached the TST to the laptop then hit the enter key. The laptop displayed, in sequence, each picture and profile that had been captured. James was viewing with such intent that he was almost in the screen. When the profile and picture of Joy appeared James almost fell from his chair. He exclaimed, “This is insane this cannot be Joy; she has been with me for over ten years-No it can’t be!”
As the picture gallery was presented James became more and more angry rather than surprised. When he saw the picture of Joy being “stunned” he collapsed in the chair and sat quite still. Roscoe said, “Yes, I retrieved the other TST along with two DNA swabs. One from Joy and one from the headless man at the Mosque”. “Let’s look at the DNA and see who pops up”. James hit some keys and the first DNA sample produced the profile of Joy Darling with an alias or more accurately her real name, Mariana Lopez. The description of Lopez: Venezuelan descent, with known ties to Hamas cells in the U.S. The next DNA sample produced the profile of Ali Ben-Saud: known terrorist of Israeli and Lebanese descent. Alias’ Jacob Rabin, Abraham Perelman, among others.
Roscoe rose handed James the Genco package and the TST issued to him. He said, “ My job for you is finished”. “ I have a few loose ends to tie up then I am off for a long rest,” James stood shook Roscoe’s hand and said, “ A job most well done-thank you and we will deposit the remainder of your fee tomorrow.” With that Roscoe picked up the payment pouch and said,” You might want to feed this info to Fox news. It will make a great “News Alert” and kudos to Genco.” He then turned and left. The payment pouch would be dropped on Jake Sutro’s desk, before Roscoe headed home for a well-deserved siesta.
Chavez and his cabinet were huddled around the 50-inch plasma TV. Listening to the reporter and viewing the file pictures-the same pictures which Roscoe had snapped. The reporter was describing the shooting at the mosque in Washington and stated that the FBI lab had identified the headless man as no other than the known terrorist Ali Ben-Saud of Lebanon. This verified why there had been no contact from Ali and that the pressure on the U.S. would not happen. Chavez and all in the room were quiet as they new serious repercussions from the people as well as sanctions were going to be increased via the U.S. and the UN.
Chavez turned to the Minister of the Interior and said, “Contact Alberto Sanchez, you and him be in my office by 09:00 tomorrow!” “And the rest of you get out!”
This dinner was to be one of her most tantalizing. Nan prepared meals as a gourmet. Tonight she wanted to be at her very best. She was sipping a glass of wine while reviewing the menu:
Clams on the half shell with truffles and chives-sherried consomme’ then Filet mignon poivre-Potatoes Dauphinoise-Endive and watercress salad. Served with a classic wine not yet selected. Finishing with Apple Pecan tort and coffee. Then, of course, the final dessert.
A knock on the door caused Nan to replace the lid on the simmering Sherried Consomme’ and moved to welcome her guest.
Smiling she opened the door saying, “ You’re late, guy-the ice cubes are melting”. Ros answered, “Hard day at the office and I needed a two hour nap”. After the before dinner drinks, they sat down to enjoy the meal and conversation.
Ros insisted he be told why and how she ended up at the mosque. Nan replied, “I will tell you the whole story, but keep in mind that “trust is the glue that holds true friendships together”. She continued, “as you recall there were two classified files in the database to which you could not gain access. One was a file on Joy Darling aka Mariana Lopez”. “The CIA has had her under tight surveillance for over two years since she showed up on a visa violation.
Since she originally emigrated from the Middle East and she had been employed with Genco, the CIA was not going to take any chances on a possible terrorist doing harm by infiltrating a government-contracting firm. Therefore her file was sealed; even James did not have knowledge as to whose data was in the file. In order to have a tight of surveillance as possible, I was solicited and placed with Genco as a government technical consultant on TST with my file sealed as well.
Since James had never seen or met me in the past, he was uninformed of my position with the state department. My association with Genco had to be limited to just those people in the TST program. That is the reason I did not and could not tell you. Some of my extended trips were nothing more than cover for time at Genco looking into and at Joy Darling’s records, memos and phone call ledgers”.
”Okay, that takes care of the mysterious files, but why and how did you know to follow me?” Ros queried.
Nan explained, “ Last night NSA monitored a call to a number in Rockville with the caller being in Houston”. “With pieces of the several calls over the last few days being like a common denominator, such as merchandise, delivery, deposits and times specific, We were convinced something was about to go down.
Then with the pick up of the conversation between Houston and the Rockville number, which happened to be an unlisted number of Joy Darling, we then new the location of the meet and delivery of the merchandise, but we did not to whom the delivery was to be made. What we knew about Perelman who we now know was Ali Be-Saud, led us to suspect he might be the receiver. So, we planned to meet both, Joy and the receiver at the mosque. I was not aware you were following the thief, or Joy as it were”.
“So there you go”. “ You now know I am not only a troubleshooter for State but a part time spy and oh yeah, I got “that hunk of iron” from my time with NCIS”. “You have known me for over three years, you know my family, you know my likes and dislikes, and you know my body, which is covered in my list of likes and dislikes and now you know my complete other life.”
Ros just stared at her with some awe and said, “I’m damn happy you are a great cook and the fact that you appreciate the purpose of cavalry arriving in the nick of time.”
Having finished the pecan tort and coffee, they both stood-Nan took Ros’s hand and said sensually, “ I’m ready for Blunt force” and led him upstairs…
The U.S. ambassador to the UN was displaying the messages that had been intercepted between Caracas, Lebanon, Darling and Perelman. All of the pictures, which were captured by Roscoe Blunt, were being displayed on the large TVs in the Council chambers.
The sanctions were going to be devastating and the first step toward democracy was about to be taken in the South American country.
PART 2: The Chase
The tires squealed and screeched loudly as the big Lincoln slashed around the corner into the alley and headed for the docks. Streaking through the alley, the big car veered to the left and clipped two forklifts before slamming head-on into the massive stack of sea-going shipping containers. The occupant was dead! Chasing, but at a distance of only 30 yards the Mini Cooper was closing fast. Just as it turned the corner the driver in the Cooper saw the crash. Pulling close to the wreck, a figure stepped out and walked to the ruptured Lincoln. The figure forced the driver’s door open, reached across the dead driver and retrieved the Haliburton case, which had been thrown to the floor. Backing off-the figure patted the dead driver on the bloodied head and left.
Joy Darling had been held incognito in the security ward for almost three months. She was declared a top terrorist and a definite threat to the country’s security.
The door to her room opened and the nurse entered to retrieve the breakfast tray. As the nurse bent down to pick up the tray, Joy struck her from behind with a heavy stainless steel pitcher. She then grabbed a knife from the tray and plunged it deep into the nurse’s neck. Next, she wrapped the nurse’s neck in a bath towel, changed clothes and wrestled the nurse into the bed, took her ID badge, covered her and then left the hospital unhindered.
Her next stop was the terrorists’ safe house in Arlington in order to grab her “get-a-way” stash of about twenty thousand dollars. She put on a red wig; threw a long black leather coat over the nurse’s dress grabbed the stuffed overnight bag and headed for the bus station.
Roscoe was sitting on the patio enjoying his morning coffee and reading the morning news. His eyes caught an article entitled
“WOMAN TERRORIST ESCAPES FROM WALTER REED”. Roscoe read on:
“The woman known as Joy Darling, a former employee of GENCO, escaped from the security ward of Walter Reed early yesterday morning. Darling a.k.a. Mariana Lopez is a known terrorist as was proven by DNA matching at the time of her capture in February. She was attempting to sell top secret plans and hardware to another terrorist, Ali Ben-Saud, at the site of the apprehension. Her whereabouts are unknown at this time. The DHS and the FBI have thrown out a nationwide net in an effort to apprehend her before she can leave the country”
Roscoe turned to Nan, and said, “ I see where our good friend Joy Darling has escaped from W.R”. Nan, was Ros’s long time friend, lover and always there when he needed support and assistance. Nan was still with the U.S. State Department as a troubleshooter. Nan responded, “With friends like her who needs enemies. I’m sure her escape already caused an intense hunt to begin and the odds are that your phone is going to ring soon”.
Having finished their coffee and breakfast, they went inside and prepared for their morning run.
Joy had purchased a Greyhound ticket, using one of her alias “Joan Gridly”, to a small town she randomly picked from a map. The route was from Silver Spring via Chicago to Wabash, Indiana.
In the town of about 15,000, she entered a woman’s apparel store where she purchased a pair of blue jeans, a red western shirt, a denim jacket and a pair of western boots. After paying, she asked permission to use a fitting room to change as she was headed for a ” western party”. Having changed she put her traveling clothes in the shopping bag and departed the store. Outside she dumped the shopping bag into a sidewalk trash can. Next, she bought a large coffee to go, from the stand next door.
Then she proceeded to walk across the street to the public parking lot. Being a small town, it was not hard to find a car unlocked. Locating such a car she “hot-wired” it and sped away heading toward highway 24 and Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Joan arrived at the Baer Field airport, just outside Fort Wayne at 16:00. She parked in “Long Term”, removed the license plates and wrapped them in a newspaper. As she left the parking lot, both the plates and the car keys were thrown in a covered trash receptacle. After purchasing a round trip ticket from Fort. Wayne to Caracas via Phoenix, Arizona, checking her case, with the stash, she collected her ticket, with claim stub, and sauntered to the cocktail lounge to wait for her flight to be called.
While sipping on a “brandy and seven’, her thoughts were between and around ideas to access enough money to carry out the original assignment she was given back in January. The execution of this assignment fell through, of course, since she lost the money that was offered for the sale of the TST pulse Analyzer to Ali Ben-Saud. She grimaced as the vision of that day flew through mind. Her thoughts continued to scroll and the only possible scenario would be to take the fifteen of the twenty thousand and buy, as much as possible, cocaine. Cut it and use the cell’s distribution network in Chicago, New York and LA to increase the investment many times over.
Having made this decision a possible answer to her money problem, she pulled out the note sent to her by Alberto Sanchez, her long time drug contact in Caracas. It read:
“Your net cost per ounce is $700. Your best approach is to turn your cocaine powder into crack cocaine (rocks), then the profit again increases. Each “rock” will sell for $55 (they are referred to as “fifties”). Three rocks can be created from a halve. Therefore, from a single ounce, You can create 168 rocks which retail at about $ 9,240. Thus, your profit on the ounce is about $ 8540”.
Joan knew her network could turn any amount she could afford to acquire into ready cash within 30 to 45 days. She mentally calculated- 55 times 168 is about 9000 and 21 ounces times the 9000 is about 190,000. So, $190,000 dollars will do nicely. She called Alberto from a public phone and made arrangement to meet him in Caracas at the El Picoteo restaurant at 8:00 PM sharp on the 19th-2 days. She finished the conversation, “ I am in a position to conclude our arrangement discussed some two months ago, before the TST incident”. She heard her flight being called as she replaced the handset.
While in line to board, she purposefully bumped into a portly gentleman carrying a backpack out of which protruded a cell phone. As she bumped him she smiled offered her apology and deftly relieved the man of his phone and proceeded to board.
Back from their run, Ros followed Nan into the kitchen. To their great surprise, Jake Sutro, deputy director of the FBI, sitting at the breakfast bar dipping a bagel into his coffee, presented a toothy grin and chirped, “Good morning-just thought I would drop by for a chat”.
Almost in unison, Ros and Nan chimed, “Oh, no here we go again!” “It’s important enough that I came to you”, responded Jake. “Is this about the escape at Walter Reed?” Ros Asked. “Yes it is, so sit down and let me bring you up-to-date and why we need your help”. Jake continued, “You know who she is and what she is, so let’s focus on where she is and why she’s there-first we haven’t any idea whatsoever where she is. Whether she is still in the area or fled to some remote area in the Amazon. The important thing is picking up her trail. “As I understand it your people raided and closed the Arlington safe-house and all there are behind bars, correct? Asked Ros.
Jake responded, “Right and all except Joy and all her aliases are missing”. “O.K”, Ros followed, “We will do what we can, with maximum effort, to track her down. What we need right now, from DHS, is a list of the top 5 perceived and potential terrorist threats with possible execution within the next month or so”. Also, Nan, you will assist with this?” Nan smiled and said, “Of course, you’re not allowed to have all of the fun!”
With that Jake made his exit saying, “Keep me informed and I will expect a progress report every other day. You have carte blanche, so do your thing!”
After Jake had gone Nan and Ros looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders and Nan said, “I have to go to state tomorrow. This week is going to be hectic so what say you and I meet in the shower and enjoy the day?” Ros smiling said gleefully,
“ Works for me.”
Joan was pissed! Alberto was late and she could not tolerate tardiness of any sort. As this thought was darting through her mind, Alberto entered and sauntered over to Joan’s table, which was a private booth. Seated he said, in broken English,” Good evening, Senorita.” She sharply quipped, “Bull shit where in the hell have you been?” “Hey, back off I was taking care of your business.” He followed this with, “let’s do our business while we enjoy a cerveza”.
“Sorry-O.K.” Joan retorted. She continued, “ I am on the run. So, what I need is 21 ounces of coke packaged in hermetically sealed plastic and sown in the lining of a backpack. As I need to get this merchandise into the U.S., I need to be transported to Catalina Island just off the coast of Long Beach, California there I can buy a ferry ticket and be on the mainland without question or inspection”. “ Can you provide this – and how soon?”
Alberto answered, “Si, and at anytime you request. We will have to fly by private plane from here to the coast where my contacts have a pleasure boat, which will take you to Catalina. The fee will be five thousand up front and that includes my services of meeting you at the boat and accompanying you to Catalina as protection-my contacts are not the most trust worthy”. “Fine-have the merchandise in the backpack and call me tomorrow by 10 A.M.- with the plane location. We will make the exchange there”.
Ros and Nan were just finishing lunch after a lengthy discussion as to the progress in finding Joy Darling. The FBI and DHS were becoming very concerned as no leads had been developed over the past 36 to 48 hours. Even with all law enforcement agencies throughout the country on notice. “We have been over Joy’s behavior, her routine while in the hospital as well as scouring the so-called safe house. Nothing has popped up”, Ros offered. In response Nan said. “It sucks but there has to be something and we have overlooked it. I suggest we go over the safe house again and look for the unimportant things. Sometimes they are the most important”. Ros agreed and he dropped a twenty on the table and they headed for the safe house.
Once inside they began rummaging through drawers, cabinets and anything else that might provide a possible lead. As Ros slammed a drawer shut in disgust, Nan pointed and exclaimed, “There-what is that just under the telephone stand?” “Hmm- looks like a wadded piece of paper”, Ros said. He bent down and picked it up with his gloved hand-placing it on the desk he gently spread it out and read out loud “gh #82 -1045”. I don’t know what this means but let’s get it to the lab for prints and such.” Slipping it into a plastic baggie they headed for Roscoe’s lab.
While Roscoe’ forensic people were at work, he jotted down the note’s words and mused over what they could mean-a contact and meeting place at 10:45-could be but why? She is on the run and we know she had a stash. She has to move in a hurry. She wasn’t dress to fly and the money would be discovered at an airport. So, by car? No way! Rental cars leave a clear paper trail. Then the light bulb flashed-That’s it- gh- Grey Hound #82 at 10:45! Just at that moment the lab tech approached Ros and said, “Sorry, no finger prints or DNA”. “That’s O.K. I know she skipped the area and I believe I know how”, Ros stated. Ros turned to Nan and said,
“I understand you have State’s business on the West Coast?” Nan replied. “Yes, it’s an immigration problem and I may be gone for several weeks but I will keep in touch and do what I can from my end to help track her.” They both stood and gave each other a passionate goodbye and as anticipation of her return, Ros added a tender pat and stroke on Nan’s butt causing her to whisper “not here!” They went their separate ways not knowing they would see each other sooner than they planned.
“Bus 82 on the 15th at 10:45 what was its destination. This is U.S. government business?” Ros queried of the ticket agent. The agent somewhat intimidated replied, “It’s an express to Chicago with rest stops.” Showing the agent a picture of Joy; ”do you remember if this person boarded 82?” Ros asked. Adding “she is taller than average, likes to wear leather and doesn’t smile easily.” “I don”t recognize her. I hardly remember the person before the one I’m serving!” the agent exclaimed. Continuing “but I do recall a taller woman who looked a little strange. She was a pale looking red head wearing a rich looking long leather coat buttoned to the top. The reason I remember her is that when she walked away I noticed she was wearing what appeared to be nurses’ socks-does that help”? “You bet! -Thanks”. Ros left heading for Jake Sutro’s office.
Roscoe entered Jake’s office and plopped himself on the leather sofa saying, “Well we know she left the area-we know how and when but we don’t have a clue as to where she might be at this moment. She apparently caught the 82 Grey Hound express to Chicago on the 15th.” Jake responded, “Well we at least know she isn’t here. So, what do you want me to do?” “Just ensure that the APB stays in effect and pass any intel, no matter how insignificant it may sound, to me immediately. I’ll keep you informed as to my location. I’m going to Chicago and attempt to pick up her trail”. With that said, Roscoe left to make arrangements for the flight to Chicago.
The morning following the meeting at El Picoteo another meeting at the U.S Embassy was in full heated swing. DeAnna Rickas the ambassador, was enlightening Nan as to the situation with Chavez and the planned influx of criminals, dope dealers and other human derelicts to the U.S. by virtue of Alberto Sanchez’s planning and activity at the direction of Chavez. DeAnna continued, ”We have stopped the migration but we want Sanchez. So, I have been given instructions by the Secretary to extend to you all freedom to act in tracking him and, if necessary, terminating with extreme prejudice-in other words kill the bastard!
Our patience has run out with Chavez and all of his cronies”. Our intelligence tells us that he is on his way to an associate’s boat the “Mary Ann” for what appears to be sailing excursion”. Nan acknowledged the orders and merely said, “I understand” turned and left the embassy.
Six hours out of Catalina Joan was leaning on the rail admiring the blue water and the trailing wake. She was wondering why Alberto and the boat owner, Hernando, were the only two aboard. Alberto sauntered up to stand behind her. At that moment he said, in a soft voice, “Do not turn around-we appreciate your business and the twenty or so thousand but now you must take a long swim”. Shocked Joan retorted, “What the hell you mean- I was honest with you and you treat me this way?” “You’re a greedy bastard and the cell will find you!”-you creep!”
During her spiel, she slowly slid the .32 Colt, from its hiding place in her belt – aimed it backward between her left arm and side and pulled the trigger. The slug hit Alberto in the gut just below the belt line. Shocked he looked down. As he did this Joan whirled and tapped the trigger again, hitting Alberto in the head. He dropped, kicked and then he was dead. At the sound of the shots, Hernando came running; as he approached Joan pointed the gun and said in a matter of fact tone, ”Your choice-join him or stay at the wheel until we dock”. With that, Hernando grunted, “Si Senorita” -whirled and returned to the wheelhouse.
At approximately 2:45 PM the Mary Ann dropped anchor in among other vessels at Catalina. At 2:50 PM Joan screwed the silencer onto the 32 Colt then walked up behind Hernando and pulled the trigger removing part of his head. She dragged his limp body to the hatch leading to the engine compartment and rolled Hernando through the opening to join Alberto; not realizing that the night before they set sail Nan had slipped aboard and was hiding just six feet away from the drop zone. Joan then went to her cabin picked up the backpack and the satchel containing the twenty thousand she had already retrieved from Alberto’s cabin.
Using the cell phone she had lifted at the airport, she made a call to her contact on the mainland and said, ”This is Joy. I’m on Catalina. Have the car in front of the Long Beach ferry building in one hour. Book me a room at the Waterfront Motel under the name Joan Gridly and have our supplier with the merchandise meet me there at 18:00. I’m catching the next ferry”. She then threw the phone so that it would hit the water aft of the stern. Unnoticed it hit a cleat and bounced into the cockpit. She then lowered herself into the powered dinghy and went ashore, bought a ferry ticket and dropped onto a seat at a corner table to await the ferry bound for Long Beach.
Roscoe having struck out with the station agent in Chicago was sitting in the station’s cocktail lounge enjoying a scotch neat. He was going over his notes and attempting to gain something by rewriting each event and each name of each individual he had queried, including writing down all of the alias which Joy was known to have used. As he was a word puzzle junkie, Ros began playing with Joy’s name- Joy Darling. After moving the letters around several times, he noticed a pattern developing and there it was! J O A N G R I D L Y.
Every letter in Joy Darling! At that moment his cell rang and Jake Sutro said, “I think we may have a lead or it may be nothing. But from the national network of police and other agencies, we had a call from the Indiana State police stating they found an abandoned and suspicious car at the Fort. Wayne airport. The car had no plates, was locked and had been there for over 48 hours. The police have not done anything to it or with it at this time”.
Roscoe responded, “Good it is worth checking. Tell the people involved no one is to touch the car until I get there. Jake, I believe Joy is traveling under the name of Joan Gridly Have that put on the wire to all agencies”. “Will do and good luck”. With that he closed the phone, killed the scotch and headed for the ticket counter.
Roscoe accompanied by the local FBI agent approached the vehicle at Baer Field in Fort Wayne. The state police sergeant, in charge of the vehicle’s security stated, “We have done nothing per instructions-it’s locked”. “So, break the window “, retorted Roscoe. Brushing the broken glass away, Roscoe unlocked the driver’s door and began searching for anything of interest. He found nothing but a paper container with a brown residue and a few drops of liquid still inside. The container was imprinted with “The Sweet Shop Wabash, Indiana Telephone 260-563-9999.
Roscoe handed the container to the FBI agent and said, “Get this to the lab priority one and get a DNA analysis-use the TST technology and get back to me just as soon as you have the results”. Roscoe pulled out his cell and dialed the number of the Sweet Shop, in Wabash. Closing his phone after the conversation, he went to the UAL ticket counter and asked to see the supervisor. The supervisor, after hearing Roscoe’s request ushered him into the security office and stated, “We have surveillance cameras placed throughout our area-if your person bought a ticket on our airlines she will be on the tape”. A few minutes later there appeared an image of the woman fitting the description as given by the Sweet Shop waiter.
Noting the date and time stamp on the recording, it was evident the person was headed for Phoenix and Roscoe was now 99 percent certain it was Joy Darling alias Joan Gridley. The other 1- percent would have to wait for the DNA results. At that moment Roscoe’s cell rang, answering it he heard Jake Sutro’s gravel voice saying, “ I got it, Ros. The most likely terror hit is going to be at the International championship soccer game. As you know the game was moved up this year and it is now scheduled for May 30 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Over 100,000 are expected including the President and First Lady.
We also learned from info gained at Gitmo that the sleeper cell, which we just busted, has been planning a big hit for that day. So, find that bitch Darling because you can bet your ass that she is the prime mover”. Roscoe responded, “ I understand, Jake. I have her traced to Phoenix and I’m on my way there now”.
“Hold on”, Jake retorted. “We learned yesterday that a two bodies were found aboard a Venezuelan yacht the “Mary Ann”. It was anchored in the harbor at Catalina Island”. One was Alberto Sanchez, Chavez’s drug lord and Darling’s cell contact, it seems she may be in California not Arizona”.”Very possible”, answered Roscoe “I’ll head for Catalina and check out the scene for evidence she was there. If I find nothing I can always backtrack to Phoenix”. Jake responded, “Fine-keep me posted-and good luck”.
“Gooseneck” Charlie Trundle was six feet three and weighed a mere 145 pounds with an exceptionally long neck. Dishonorably discharged from the U.S. Navy he was now the explosive expert and supplier for the West Coast terrorist cells.
Gooseneck opened the Haliburton case, displaying his latest creation, for use by Joan Gridly. After viewing the contents for a few moments, Joan asked, “Are you confident the device is powerful enough to kill and maim thousands?” Gooseneck snidely remarked,” I gave you exactly what you asked for-if you have the balls to use it, then yes.”
He continued, “Each of these little remote controlled planes is loaded with enough mustard gas and explosives to kill all of the p
Welcome to Authspot, the spot for creative writing.
Read some stories and poems, and be sure to subscribe to our feed!
