Part 7
Within a clear blue sky, the hot Sierra Leone sun shone down over a rain soaked land. The downpour had stopped only an hour before and steam still rose from the rooftops of scattered buildings. The scent of moist shrubbery and soil permeated the atmosphere; it was hot, sticky and unbelievably humid.
Along a dusty dirt road, Addison steered a hired motorbike towards their first destination. Skyler sat behind her, arms wrapped tight around Addison's torso. This was the only vehicle Addison had been able to secure on such short notice. The fact that they weren't provided with any protective headwear was a cause of concern for Skyler, but Addison assured her they would be fine. She had been riding for many years and was a skilled cyclist.
"So where exactly are we heading?" Skyler asked from over Addison's shoulder. She had to shout over the roar of the bike's engine.
"I don't have the precise location," Addison answered. "Dan could only tell me it was a house in Fandu. Their home is near the centre of the village."
Still curious, Skyler asked, "I don't understand... well I mean I do understand you wanting to see Ona and her family again, but what does this have to do with the mission?"
"Bem's sister's husband, Tuamanguluka, has a few contacts. I need inside information on the underground goings on here and we'll need a few more weapons. He spoke of these contacts last time I was there. He offered me his assistance in contacting a man who could get me anything I needed in order to help rescue his nephews. I know it was a while ago, but I'm hoping the offer is still open. I wasn't allowed to accept it while I was in the Marines, but now... well let's just say we work a little differently."
Indeed, Skyler acknowledged that fact was true enough. She also knew much could have happened in the years since Addison had last been in the country. Even with the ceasefire established in 1999, it had been a hard, delicate process and many changes had taken place. Skyler was very interested to see how the country had developed since the civil war.
Her attention turned to the passing scenery; Skyler noticed the sporadic placing of houses along the roadside. Each one seemed to be offering petty trades from local rice to coconuts and spices. If she wasn't on a mission, Skyler knew she would have liked time to peruse their wares.
Addison decreased her speed as the number of potholes littering the road increased. She wove the bike around deep craters. "Hey, Sky, are you okay back there?"
"Fine," Skyler replied. She was enjoying the experience. It was her first time on a motorbike and the rush of wind cooled her sticky flesh. "How far do we have to go? Not that I want to complain, but sitting like this much longer and I'll be walking funny for the rest of the day!"
"That wouldn't do!" Addison's mind pictured an incredibly bowlegged Skyler. "That's a scary thought," she stated. "Last thing we want is for the bad guys being able to escape by crawling through your legs!"
Skyler tapped Addison's stomach with her left hand. She smiled at the mental image. Her thoughts wandered and soon she was thinking about the people she was about to meet. Addison had been very detailed in her description of what had happened the last time she was in Sierra Leone. Skyler could perfectly understand why Addison would have been happy to never return. However, she also knew Addison wouldn't back away from anything. At first, Skyler didn't quite understand the agent's stubbornness and almost compulsive need to charge headlong into any situation that would cause the slightest measure of trepidation. It was only after experiencing her own fears in Imhotep's temple that she fully understood. It was neither insanity nor a subconscious death wish, but the difference between living her life and having it dictated to by insecurities existing only to hold her back.
Turning around a sharp bend to the right, Skyler held onto Addison a little tighter. If it wasn't for their satellite navigation, Skyler was sure neither she nor Addison would have a clear idea of where to go. They were taking the back roads, as Addison didn't want to make their presence too well known. Until she received word on a definite location of the L.L. Corporation's Sierra Leone branch, it was best not to draw too much attention.
Addison took several more turnings until she began to see signs of village life. She slowed the motorcycle down, eventually coming to a stop beside a large tree. Turning off the engine, Addison turned to look back at Skyler. "This is it; this is the village Ona and her family moved to after the war."
"Fandu," Skyler said, more to herself than Addison. "How will we find out which house belongs to Bem and Ona being as though neither of us speak Mende?"
"We'll find a way." Addison twisted her leg around and dismounted the bike. She waited for Skyler to do the same before leaning their vehicle against the tree and securing it with a heavy chain.
"Look at this," Skyler said as a smile lit up her features.
Addison turned to see half a dozen young children run towards them. Curiosity shone in their innocent expressions although they maintained a safe distance. The agent grinned at them, hoping to show they were friendly visitors. Placing a hand upon Skyler's lower back, under their backpack, she guided her into the village.
Skyler looked around at the simple homes. They were constructed using mud bricks, each one single level with three to four rooms. Their roofs were made using Zinc sheeting, very simple, but a wonderful achievement for the villagers who built their homes themselves.
As their confidence grew, the children began to move closer. Skyler smiled and wiggled her fingers in greeting. She remained beside Addison who was vigilantly studying the centre of the village. Fandu was one of the many regions that'd been aided by the World Relief fund in rebuilding their communities. Addison had remained up to date with the progress of Sierra Leone, especially the village where Ona, Bem and their family lived. As much as she harboured a desire to see them again, she never thought she would… and yet here she was.
Looking to the left, Skyler stopped in her tracks. Two remarkably similar young men caught her attention. They matched Addison's description of Chich and Sule. The two teenagers, dressed in nothing but navy shorts, bore the scars of the R.U.F. carved into their chests. Although the marks had faded, Skyler's eagle eyes caught them instantly. "Addison…" Skyler took the agent's arm. She too had stopped upon seeing the twins. "Is that…?"
"I think so." Addison swallowed.
"Are we going to…?"
"Yes." Addison remained where she stood. The twins were now looking in their direction. They were holding simple farming equipment and had obviously just returned from their day's work. The night was fast approaching.
Wondering why the agent had yet to move, Skyler asked, "Are you okay, Addison?" She received a silent nod in response. Skyler felt a degree of concern. "Addison?"
Blinking, Addison shook her head. "Sorry, it just feels a little strange to see the twins again. It's like I can still see them as the young boys they were… wounds still fresh…" Unexpectedly, the door to their home opened and a young girl stepped into view. Addison estimated she must have been no more than nine years old. Feeling an encouraging hand upon her waist, Addison stepped towards the house. Skyler followed, still paying a small amount of attention to the children around them.
Smiling in greeting, Addison asked, "Chich… Sule?" The twins' expressions of cautious acknowledgement encouraged Addison. "Speak English?" She hoped their mother would have tutored her children.
"Yes," Chich and Sule answered together.
"Hello, my name is…"
"Sergeant Addison Black!" said a voice from behind the agent.
Addison spun around to see a very familiar face. "Ona! My god!" She approached the taller, dark woman and they embraced warmly.
"I am surprised to see you."
Addison held Ona's shoulders and looked into her eyes. "It's been a long time, Ona."
Dark fingers traced Addison's jaw line. "You have not changed, Addison Black."
"And neither have you… still as beautiful as ever." Addison placed a hand upon Ona's stomach. "Although this is a little smaller!"
Ona smiled. Looking over Addison's shoulder she called to the young girl in the doorway. "Addison Black, this is my daughter Ashaki Montsho."
Addison lowered her head to look into the shy girl's eyes. She said hello in Mende, the only word she could remember. Ashaki showed little acknowledgement until her mother said something which made her look up at the agent in wonder. "What did you say?" Addison asked.
"I told her you are the woman who she was named after. She knows she was named after the soldier who saved her father."
"Really?" Addison was both surprised and humbled by Ona's revelation. She swallowed a lump that had unexpectedly risen in her throat.
"Ashaki Montsho," Ona repeated. "In English means 'Beautiful Black'."
Addison was stunned. She felt the sudden regret in not returning to Sierra Leone sooner. Blinking away a stray tear she looked over at Skyler. "God, I'm sorry. Ona I would like you to meet Doctor Skyler Tidwell… Sky, this is Ona."
Skyler took Ona's hand warmly. "I'm very pleased to meet you, Ona."
"You are very welcome here…" Ona paused to accurately pronounce the doctor's name. "Skyler." She looked back at Addison. "A social visit?"
"I'm afraid not, Ona. There's possibly a very bad situation here. Skyler and myself have been sent to stop it before terrible things happen."
Ona nodded. "You want to talk with Tuamanguluka?"
"Yes. We need weapons and contacts he might know. We have money and can pay for the best."
"I can send for him. He will not be here until tomorrow. For now you must come into our home. You are welcome to stay tonight. Bem… he is inside… he never got to meet you. I know he will be very happy to finally see you. Please…" Ona held out her hand to the women. "Welcome."
*********
Entering Bem and Ona's home, being around the family once again, Addison was reminded of the emotions she experienced the last time she was amongst them. This time, however, through the passage of years, many things had changed. Their lives had transformed and the flicker of contentment in Ona's eyes proved that. The family had worked hard to get where they were, but had paid a heavy price, as had many of the villagers. Signs of the past war were still very clear. Many bore the physical and emotional scars of the violence used against them, but they looked only towards the future and worked diligently to build the community they now lived within. It was a wonderful sight for Addison to see.
Despite Addison's earlier reservations, Skyler could tell she was happy to come in contact with the family again. Although their previous time together was brief, it had been an intense and passionate fight for many lives. For Bem, meeting Addison was an emotional reunion. Skyler herself was captured by the sentiments and warmth of the family. Ona had taught her sons and daughter enough English that they were able to communicate with her and Addison very well. Their conversations were light and focussed mainly on current issues and village life.
After a simple rice dinner the family retired for the evening. Addison and Skyler remained in the parlour. They constructed a simple bed out of a blanket and a change of clothing for pillows. The women spooned together on the cold floor. The temperature had dropped and a slight chill lingered in the air. With one arm wrapped around Skyler, Addison whispered into her ear... "Sky, are you awake?"
"Yes," Skyler replied in a low whisper.
"Interesting day, huh?"
The doctor turned onto her back. She looked up at Addison who gazed down at her, awaiting a response. "One thing I'm beginning to love about this job…"
"What's that?"
"I can honestly say I never know what tomorrow will bring." Skyler looked up at the metallic roofing of the small house. "To be honest, Addison, I didn't really expect to be travelling the world. I was under the impression I would be based solely in London… or at the most a secure location at a safe distance from the action."
Addison smiled. "Never thought you'd be right in the middle of it again?"
"Not really. I can't say I particularly wanted it either. I know this won't be a regular occurrence though."
"Probably not." Addison smoothed her hand down Skyler's chest and it came to rest upon her stomach. "It's been interesting having you with me… working with me… it's been a while since I've had another person on a mission like this. That wasn't really the requirements of Special Operations… but I guess we have to evolve and this assignment certainly didn't come through regular channels."
"I guess not." Adjusting her position, Skyler placed one hand under her head. She placed her other upon the hand Addison rested upon her stomach. Taking a relaxing breath, Skyler said, "It feels so peaceful here at night. I guess it's very different from how this country used to be."
Addison nodded silently. Her attention turned momentarily to the distant sounds around the village. She heard a baby crying and nocturnal birds hooting in the trees. "I feel so tired."
"I think we both need to catch up on some sleep."
Again, Addison only nodded. She pulled Skyler into her body and the doctor placed her head upon Addison's shoulder. They closed their eyes, but even behind heavy lids, Skyler's mind was active. "Addison?"
"Hmm?"
"Something just occurred to me."
"What's that?" the agent mumbled.
"Another of the papers Hawthorn wrote. It was about artificial intelligence." Skyler opened her eyes to find Addison looking at her in curiosity. "He has some reasonably probable theories. I'm thinking that if he applies that programming to this computer we may be in even more trouble than originally thought."
Addison sat up in concern. "How do you mean?"
Skyler sat with her. "I'm not entirely sure… I mean… I have no idea what he's building, but I do know one thing… if he applies any of this A.I. programming into this computer then, considering the advanced nature of his technology, there is the possibility of it becoming self aware."
"Thinking for itself?"
"Look, Addison, I'm only speculating, but Hawthorn is damn smart. If he is building the ultimate computer then with his ego he's going to make it…"
"The dog's bollocks!"
"The best, yes."
Crossing her legs, Addison asked, "So are we talking a supreme power struggle here or Terminators… rise of the killer-bots… cybernetic organisms taking over the world?"
Skyler smiled. "I don't think we have to worry about time travelling or muscle bound assassins, but… Addison, imagine what you would do if you had no conscience, no emotions, no desire… in short… nothing that is unique to our humanity? The question isn't 'what would you do'? … It's 'is there anything you wouldn't do'?"
"Bugger." With a whole new set of worries etched into her brow, Addison lay back down, pulling Skyler with her. "We have a lot to do tomorrow." As Skyler placed her head upon Addison's shoulder the agent said, "I want you to get in touch with Mark and Danny. Tell them everything we know and get any new information. You'll definitely have to do it through satellite communication. Resources are limited here… there's no I.S.P. or mobile phones. I'll be meeting with Tuamanguluka and I would like you to stay here."
"Why?"
"Because his contacts aren't exactly the friendly or trusting type. Bem told me Tuamanguluka has close links with former R.U.F. These guys will be the best people he knows in order to get inside information on any clandestine activities in the area."
Not liking this idea, Skyler propped her head up and looked down at Addison. "Are you sure about that? Addison, it's obvious some of these guys were pretty nasty sons of..."
"…It'll be okay, Sky, I promise. I somehow doubt Hawthorn's base is going to be the L.L. Corporation's Sierra Leone branch. I'll need an insider, familiar with the land and people, to discover the possible location of Santos and Hawthorn." Addison paused as she pulled Skyler back down onto her shoulder. "I'm also going to need a few more weapons… a couple of handguns and a rifle is hardly enough for the surprise party I have in mind."
"Surely their weapons technology can't be as advanced as ours though?"
Addison tapped her nose. "Depends on who you know!"
"Well okay, but I still reserve the right to be concerned about this, Addison."
"Concern noted." Addison closed her eyes. "Now lets get some sleep."
"Okay." Skyler closed her eyes, but opened them once again. "One more thing."
"What?" Addison asked with a sigh.
"Happy Birthday for tomorrow, Addison."
The agent's eyes flew open in surprise. "My god, I forgot about that!"
"Good thing I'm around then isn't it?" Skyler snuggled under the warmth of their blanket. "Now get some sleep and remind me to give you your birthday gift once all this is over."
In curiosity, Addison asked, "Is it a pony?"
"No."
"Is it bigger than a baby's arm?"
"Addison!"
"Does it vibrate?"
"Get some sleep!"
"Can I wear it?"
Skyler growled.
In a deeper tone, Addison then asked, "Can you wear it?"
"Goodnight, Addison."
The agent closed her eyes. "Goodnight, Skyler." She smiled. "Can we both wear it?" Suddenly, Addison felt her makeshift pillow pulled from under her and her head hit the ground. She was bombarded with a series of cushioned attacks. Addison held her hands up in front of her face. "Okay, okay… I'm asleep!"
With tired satisfaction, Skyler lay back down and handed Addison her pillow. "Night, Addison."
Addison grinned in the darkness. "Night, Penfold."
Chapter 27
Skyler rolled onto her back and though still asleep the repetitive sound of an incessant bouncing invaded her subconscious. She grumbled and pulled the blanket over her head. Unfortunately the sound drew closer. Skyler wriggled deeper under the cover, but there was no escaping the invasion. In defeat she sleepily opened one eye and peered above the blanket. To her right a bright red ball bounced repeatedly by the side of her face. Feeling confusion, Skyler rose to a sitting position. Looking around she noticed Addison was suspiciously absent.
"You are awake," Ona said in greeting as she stepped into the parlour.
Skyler rubbed her eyes sleepily. "That's a matter of opinion." She yawned. "Good morning, Ona. Where's Addison?" She looked behind her to where Ashaki was still bouncing her red ball and smiled at the young girl.
"Addison left early this morning with Tuamanguluka. She tried to tell you. You were sleeping deep. Addison said she would leave you to rest."
"Oh she did, did she?" With her head hanging low, Skyler yawned again. Ashaki's ball rolled towards her and she picked it up, handing it back to her. Ashaki took it shyly and ran from the room. Skyler smiled in amusement. "When did Addison leave, Ona?" She watched the older woman slice fruit with a well-used knife.
"She said to tell you she left at six-thirty."
Skyler checked her watch; it was ten minutes to nine. "Damn, I've been sleeping for a long time!" She rose slowly. "I'm sorry I took up your floor space, Ona. I wish Addison had woke me."
Ona shook her head in disagreement. "Addison said you needed sleep. I didn't know her for long the first time, but I know to trust her."
Skyler smiled. "Very true." The doctor removed their blanket from the floor and began folding the material carefully. Once done she placed it upon a table by the wall and began rolling her head from side to side; sleeping on the floor wasn't the most comfortable of places to rest for the night. Skyler closed her eyes and listened to the sounds of children playing outside. Their joyful banter invaded the otherwise enclosed tranquillity of Ona and Bem's home. "Addison told me what happened the last time."
The African woman stopped slicing and placed down her knife. She turned to face Skyler. "I thank God for sending her that day. My sons and my husband would not be alive today if not for her."
"Addison considers it a joint effort, Ona." Skyler approached her and started to assist in the clearing away of cores and seeds from the fruit Ona had prepared. "She was very apprehensive about returning."
"App… apprehensive?"
Choosing a different word to help Ona understand what she was trying to say, Skyler said, "She was wary. Many years have passed… A lot has happened."
"Addison Black is always welcome in our home." Ona sat down at the table and pulled a stool out for Skyler. As the doctor sat, Ona offered her a piece of fruit and Skyler accepted hungrily. "Any friend of Addison is welcome here too."
"Thank you." Skyler bit into the slice of deliciously ripe mango. It was greeted enthusiastically by appreciative taste buds. She devoured the segment and reached for another. "Ona… I hope you don't mind me being nosey, but I need to ask about the people Addison is meeting with today. She said they are former R.U.F. rebels."
"I do understand." Ona selected a slice of mango from the wooden plate. "Some men fighting for the rebels did because their families lives were at risk… it is…" Ona tried to find the right word to accurately describe to Skyler the intricacy of the situation.
"It was difficult… It still is I guess?"
"We are a country trying to rebuild after the war. How many people want to fight?"
Skyler began to understand. "It isn't that I fear for Addison, Ona… I just can't trust the people she may be meeting with." She toyed with the half eaten segment of mango in her fingers. "I guess you can't help worrying about the ones you love."
"Comradeship between soldiers has strengthened a lot," Ona stated curiously.
"Oh we're not… well…. we're…" Deciding she wasn't quite in the mood to explain her relationship with Addison, Skyler simply said, "I'm not actually a soldier."
"No?"
"No… my position is more liaisons and information… which reminds me, I need to get to work." Skyler looked around, locating their backpack by the wall where she and Addison had been sleeping. "I need to contact Headquarters. Do you mind if I set up my gear on this table?"
With curious interest, Ona agreed readily. She watched Skyler remove certain battery-powered devices from her backpack and begin placing them upon the table. "I have never seen things like this before."
Skyler pointed to her P.D.A. "This is a computer." Next she picked up a small black box with a lead. She pressed a button that released a small umbrella-like article. As she plugged the lead into the P.D.A. Skyler said, "This is a very small, but very, very powerful satellite antennae. And finally…" Skyler picked up her mobile telephone. "This is a cell phone. Out here and on its own it is useless, but it also serves as a video-cell phone so if I plug it into my P.D.A. I can see the people I'm talking to."
"And they can see you?" asked Ona, thoroughly engrossed. Although she had only a small idea of what these devices did, she was highly interested to see them working.
"Yes, they can see me too." Skyler plugged the cellular telephone into her computer. "Now I dial through and contact H.Q…"
*********
From the moment they left Ona's home, Addison and Tuamanguluka had been travelling on foot. The majority of that distance had been through the jungle. She had no idea where they were heading, but she did trust Tuamanguluka. She saw it in the man's eyes the first time they met. It was a forthright honesty she knew she could rely on. However, Addison didn't trust the men she would be meeting and as such she was prepared. Armed with her pistols and rifle, Addison was ready for any contingency.
As the minutes drew closer to ten o'clock, a heavy downpour ensued. The dense foliage managed to shield them from the majority of the rain, but that only meant it would take longer before they were soaked through. Addison didn't mind the rain, especially with the heat. Over her years in training and mission, Addison had spent almost a full year in the jungle. She was well accustomed to the heat as well as the precipitation.
Running a hand through her hair, Addison used the rain to aid her attempt in pushing the strands from her face. Her clothes were beginning to cling to her body. Addison wore only her pants and tank top. As usual her shirt remained tied around her waist, covering her Berettas. Addison's thoughts turned to Skyler and she hoped the doctor wouldn't be too annoyed for not waking her before she left.
"Addison?"
The agent looked up to where Tuamanguluka had stopped five paces ahead of her. He waited for Addison to approach. The unusually tall man held a large machete in his right hand for cutting away low hanging branches. He wore a white vest, which was too short for his long torso and a green sarong wrapped around his waist. Unusual attire, Addison had thought, but she knew choice of clothing wasn't a luxury.
"Something wrong?" Addison asked, keeping her guard.
Tuamanguluka switched his machete from hand to hand. "We are walking into land lived on by ex-members of the West Side Boys."
"Right, okay… be on guard!"
Tuamanguluka nodded. "Yes." He turned and continued his journey through the trees.
Although she had never encountered the West Side Boys, Addison was aware of their acts and reputation. They were a band of rebels, independent of the Revolutionary United Front, but just as dangerous. The West Side Boys were well known for setting up roadblocks against unsuspecting travellers. They were often drunk and wore rather bizarre clothing. Addison knew she had to be vigilant; the men's behaviour was often unpredictable. Although these men were apparently no longer the West Side Boys, Addison wasn't letting down her defences.
They trudged through the jungle for another half an hour. The rainfall continued. Now thoroughly saturated, water rolled freely down Addison's face and mixed with her sweat. Tiny corpses of washed out insects clung to her arms and shoulders. She had given up wiping them away as more would appear the next time she brushed against trees and leaves.
The sound of a rustling to her left caused Addison to pause in her tracks. Taking Tuamanguluka by the arm, she pulled him up against the nearest tree and held her finger over her lips, indicating he was to remain silent. The man nodded and looked through the trees to where seven figures emerged in the distance. They drew closer and Addison noticed each man had a weapon slung over his shoulder or tucked into the waistband of his clothing. She could tell these arms were more sophisticated. Addison turned to Tuamanguluka. "Do you know any of these men?" she asked in a low whisper
Tuamanguluka shook his head. "I know none of them."
"Shit." Addison looked back at the figures slowly closing in on them. She regarded their weaponry once again. "How much further until we reach your contact?"
"Ten miles."
"Ten! … Okay, I really don't want to waste that much time." Addison studied the men and considered her options.
"What are you going to do?"
Addison grinned. "I'm going to make these guys an offer they cannot refuse!" She pulled Tuamanguluka down into a patch of overgrown greenery. "Wait here." Without another word, Addison began climbing the closest tree. She scaled its wide trunk slowly, careful not to draw the men's attention too soon. Her sturdy black boots gripped the tree trunk despite the wet bark and Addison made short work of the immense structure. She stopped when she was fifteen feet above the ground and waited as the men approached. She could hear them speaking, but couldn't understand what they were saying. Luckily it was in Mende and as such Tuamanguluka would be able to translate if needs be.
As the first man passed the tree, Addison reached for her right Beretta. She remained otherwise perfectly still and waited patiently. Then, as the last of them walked by, Addison made her move. Leaping silently, she landed soundly behind the last man who was fortunately only two inches taller than herself. It was enough for her to place her pistol against his head. "Hey!" she called. As the men turned and alarm registered within them they reached for their guns. "Ah, ah, ah…" Forgoing the Diemaco strapped to her back, Addison reached for the submachine gun hanging from her captive's shoulder and aimed it at the remaining ex-rebels. They froze instantly. "That's good. Now… anybody here speak English?" She received no answer. "Shit… okay…Tuamanguluka?"
"Yes!" The tall African emerged from behind an overgrowth of weeds. He held his machete in a menacing manner, wary of the men before him.
"Tu, tell them I'm not here to cause trouble and I don't want to have to hurt anybody."
"Right." Tuamanguluka repeated Addison's words to the men. Instantly several answered him in anger. "They say 'then drop your weapons'."
"Do I have a bull's-eye stamped on my forehead?" Addison muttered and rolled her eyes. "Tell them I will, but… I want to offer them a deal."
Her words were translated for the men and a reply given. "What is the deal?"
Keeping her pistol on her captive, Addison released his weapon to reach for her offering. Suddenly, deciding to try his luck, the man Addison held attempted to gain the upper hand. With swiftness unseen by her audience, Addison knocked him to the ground and redirected her Beretta's aim to his crotch. She swung her Diemaco rifle around and aimed it at his rebel friends. "Stupid move, boy. I already told you I don't want to have to hurt you." She placed her booted foot over his hand as it lay upon the ground and administered just enough pressure to make sure he knew to remain where he lay. "Tu?"
"Yes?" Tuamanguluka seemed a little more nervous and the grip on his machete had tightened considerably.
"Ask them if they want to make a deal."
Tuamanguluka asked and was given a swift response. "They ask 'what is the deal'?"
Assured of their attention and co-operation, Addison holstered her Beretta, but left her Diemaco rifle aimed and ready. She hoped at that point she wasn't forced to use it.
Reaching into her pocket, Addison revealed a handful of cash. It was a thick bundle of Leones and one of three she had acquired before leaving the airport in Egypt. Showing her money to the men she said, "I need information and weapons and I am willing to pay highly for them."
Tuamanguluka passed on Addison's words. An enthusiastic response was given. "They ask 'what do you need'?"
Taking her foot from the man lying on the ground, Addison indicated he could stand. He did so swiftly and rejoined the ranks of his companions. Addison resumed talking. "I have a lot to say here, Tu. I want you to translate along with me, Okay?"
"Okay."
With a nod, Addison began. "Before I go into exact details of what I need…" she paused for Tuamanguluka to translate. "I want you to understand me… You don't want to give me any reason…" Tuamanguluka continued relaying her words in Mende. "… To think I cannot trust you… I am offering you a fair deal… with good rewards… all you have to do is accept." Addison looked each man in the eye. "If you try and double cross me…" Aiming her rifle at a tree almost one hundred yards away, Addison fired a single round of Samuel's ammunition that she had placed into the rifle's chamber before leaving. Within seconds the tree exploded, ripping its trunk clean apart. Wood branches and leaves were thrust in a three hundred and sixty degree radius of where the tree once stood. Everybody, including Addison, ducked to the ground. Birds flew away in fright and surrounding creatures fled in terror. The upper portion of the tree collapsed to the ground with a horrendous crash.
As leaves floated around them, Addison looked over at what was left of the tree. Nothing but a shattered stump remained. A feral smile crossed her lips as she rose and looked at the men. Each looked back in a mix of awe and shock. Blowing the tip of the rifle's barrel she said, "Tree go boom!"
The men spoke quietly amongst each other. Addison noticed that even Tuamanguluka seemed surprised by the unfolding events. "I don't have forever, boys."
Unexpectedly, another member of the group stepped forwards. The short curls upon his head were dyed an auburn colour and he wore baggy pants and a long t-shirt. The heavy rainfall had saturated his clothing, like everybody else's. The downpour had only just started showing signs of stopping. "We can do business."
"So some of you do speak English!" Addison wasn't at all surprised.
"I am Fela and these are my men Zere, Hiji, Dia, Gamba, Xola and Hauhouot…"
Addison pointed to her guide. "This is Tuamanguluka and I am Addison Black."
Fela shook Addison's hand. "What do you need?" He eyed the roll of red, one thousand Leone notes in Addison's hand. With the amount she had he would sell his own mother.
The agent instantly realised if she hadn't have been so aggressive in gaining the upper hand over these men they, in all probability, might have killed her before she had a chance to speak. "I need weapons, whatever you can offer with plenty of ammunition and I need information on two English men who have been working in this area. They might have been recruiting security. I have their descriptions… think you can help?"
Fela's eyes showed understanding. "Yes, but you must come with us."
"Where?"
"To our weapons and my partner. Sekou will know exactly how to find these men."
"You know who I'm talking about?"
"I do," Fela acknowledged. "One came to us… for, as you say, 'security'."
"But you turned him down?"
"Yes."
Addison looked briefly at Tuamanguluka and Fela's men. "Why?"
"Sekou must tell you this. You will come?"
After making sure Tuamanguluka was comfortable with the offer, Addison swept out her arm. "Lead the way."
*********
Skyler sat in front of her compact computer. Sweat rolled down her face, neck and back. When the morning rain stopped the atmospheric heat had increased and humidity seemed to double within minutes. There was currently only Ona and herself in the small home. The twins were both out working and Bem had taken Ashaki to the local school. While Ona busied herself with household duties, Skyler sat at the family's table, talking with Mark and Danny.
"How long has she been gone?" Mark asked. His voice was broken due to the weather causing disturbances in transmission.
"Over four hours now," Skyler replied. She looked over the information Danny had sent to her. It was data pertaining to the Sierra Leone branch of the L.L. Corporation. There was also a blueprint of the building. Unfortunately, Skyler could tell there was little chance Hawthorn and Santos would be there. There was no possible secure location for their activities. She sighed and wiped a hand over her forehead. Her fingers slid over her sweat soaked skin. There was a line of comfort when it came to heat and this was way past what Skyler considered tolerable. She checked her watch. It was almost eleven o'clock. "I have a feeling it'll be a couple of hours yet before she's back."
Mark seemed to detect a hint of worry in Skyler's voice. "Skyler, you should know as well as any of us that Addison will be fine."
"I know." Skyler ran her fingers over the wood grain of the table. "Being able to take care of herself isn't what bothers me… it's just…" Skyler stopped herself from explaining anymore. She knew full well personal feelings couldn't blur one's view of a situation, especially while on a mission. "I just… well I know you have to be ready for anything." Skyler lowered her voice. She didn't want Ona to think she was insulting her family. "She's being taken to ex-R.U.F. rebels and I hope it won't turn out to be a trap." Skyler decided to change the line of discussion. "Anyway… Danny, did you manage to find any buildings here owned under the name of either Hawthorn or Santos?"
"Negative, Skyler." Danny came into view on the small view screen of her cellular telephone. "No luck on any other buildings owned by the L.L. Corporation, Agnes Brodie, Sadie Bregon, the new company director, Emerson Hollingsworth or even Father Christmas. I'm at a momentary loss for who else to look under."
"Dorian Santos?"
"Tried it."
"William Bryson?"
"Nope."
"Damn it… they could be anywhere." Skyler folded her arms, placing them on the rough tabletop. "Let's just hope Addison's having better luck than we are."
*********
With Tuamanguluka beside her, Addison stood in the entrance room to a large wooden shack. They bore no weapons. Upon entering, every man had left his arms by the door and to show customary faith, Addison and Tuamanguluka had done the same. She didn't, however, remove the pistol from her ankle holster. Within the room there were three pieces of furniture, a table with two chairs. There was a subtle aroma of rotting wood and mildew in the air. That, however, was overpowered by the stench of what Addison could only liken to a cesspit underneath the floorboards. The longer she stood in the room, the stronger it became. Flies buzzed annoyingly around them.
Tuamanguluka nudged Addison. "What smell is that?"
"Right now I wouldn't want to even hazard a guess!" Addison looked to an adjoining door as it opened forcefully and a man walked in, followed by Fela.
"Who are you?" he asked.
"My name is Addison Bl…"
"I know your name. I want to know who you are."
Addison ground her teeth, determined not to let this older man rile her. His hair was flecked with grey and both his top front teeth were missing. "If I tell you who I work for are you going to tell me who you are?"
Sekou glared at Addison. He stepped towards her, standing toe-to-toe and stared into her eyes. From such a close proximity he was able to distinguish the different shades of darkness in her eyes. However, his attempts at intimidation failed as Addison refused to even flutter an eyelid. "What you going to do with the weapons and information I give you?"
"I'm going to stop a very bad man from causing a great deal of harm all over the world, including here." There was no harm in being honest.
Sekou laughed coldly, condescendingly. "Just you?"
Addison stood her ground. Her eyes slid to where Fela stood in the corner of the room. He didn't appear amused and if Addison wasn't mistaken she thought he looked almost worried by Sekou's behaviour.
"I could order you killed where you stand. I could take your money and leave you dead. You are a foolish girl."
Fists clenched in annoyance, Addison decided she had no time for Sekou's behaviour. Stepping forwards she surprised the man with a solid punch to his jaw. Without giving him a moment to react, Addison kicked him against the wall. He hit the rotten wood harshly and several planks cracked with the impact.
Regaining enough sense to realise what had happened, Sekou drew back his fist as Addison approached. He threw it forwards, only for it to be caught by Addison in a vicelike grip. She spun around, throwing Sekou over her shoulder and onto the floor. The other two occupants of the room remained where they stood.
Addison loomed over Sekou's dazed form and pulled him to his feet. Kicking out one of the chairs she pushed him onto its seat. He fell with a heavy thud and flinched as the chair was spun around, back under the table. Addison took the seat facing Sekou and sat down. "Enough foreplay. Are you ready to do business?"
"I will show you my weapons." Sekou spat a mouthful of blood onto the floor. There was less resentment and more trepidation in his voice.
"No… first…" Addison pulled out a handful of one thousand Leone notes. "Prove to me you know who I want to find."
"The boy… he has white hair and girly pink eyes."
With a smile of satisfaction, Addison pulled a single note from the bundle in her hand. She slammed it down upon the table. "Keep it coming."
Chapter 28
Skyler was out in the village centre when Addison returned. The doctor had befriended and been persuaded by the local children to partake in a game of soccer. She stood in the position of goalkeeper, in between two small boulders that represented goalposts. Addison, Tuamanguluka and a third member of their party entered the village the same way she and Skyler had arrived. The agent spotted Skyler easily. It wasn't too difficult to spot the hyperactive blonde jumping wildly between the goalposts. She had her back to Addison and was solely focussed upon the rabble of children tackling for a worn leather ball. Bem stood in goal at the other end of the makeshift pitch and Ona stood on the sideline.
Stopping twenty yards behind Skyler, Addison relieved her shoulders of the two bags she was carrying. She placed them on the floor. Beside her Hiji dropped the bag he'd been carrying. Addison had chosen Hiji as part of her deal with Sekou. As added insurance for protection against being double-crossed she chose Hiji after discovering he was the only other man who spoke English. The man was the same height as Addison with a full beard and little potbelly. He wasn't overly enthusiastic about being chosen as their guide and did so only for the greater good of his country.
From her position in goal, Skyler readied herself as two boys approached. They were of the opposing team and setting up position to score a goal. It seemed the rule of 'offside' didn't count in their game! Skyler jumped side to side and concentrated upon the oncoming ball. It zoomed towards her and Skyler was ready. With one final kick it was thrust towards the goal. As the ball whizzed into the air, Skyler took a step backwards. "I've got it," she yelled. "It's mine… it's mine!" Skyler jumped into the air and reached for the ball. "Yes!" she cheered as it approached and then went on to sail half a centimetre over her fingers. "Crap!" As she landed, Skyler felt herself lose balance and she fell onto her back with a thud. Her arms and legs lay sprawled out upon the ground. Feeling the air knocked out of her body, Skyler groaned. Addison watched the ball fly towards her and she caught it before jogging over to Skyler in concern. The doctor blinked in a haze. "I can see stars!" Her vision of the dusky blue sky disappeared as Addison's worried features moved into view.
"Are you alright?" A circle of children soon accompanied Addison.
"Addison, how long have you been here?"
"Long enough to see your impression of Wiley Coyote on another failed attempt to catch Roadrunner. There was even a cloud of dust when you hit the ground!" Reaching out, Addison took Skyler's hand and helped her to her feet. "Are you really okay?" Covering her face with dusty hands, Skyler mumbled quietly to herself. "Pardon?"
Skyler removed her hands. "I think my ass is bruised as well as my pride."
"Ouch." Addison refrained from rubbing Skyler's behind. "Remind me to check it later." She took a step away from Skyler and looked around them. "Kids!"
"Didn't take them long to replace me." Skyler watched the children who had continued their game. One of the boys had taken her position in goal. "I wasn't that bad; I did save four goals!"
Addison smirked and arched her brows. "Out of how many?"
Skyler narrowed her eyes and decided to change the subject. She looked around to where Tuamanguluka and Hiji stood with the weapons. "So, how did it go?"
"Got everything we need."
"You know where they are?"
Addison pointed towards Hiji. "Not only that, but I got us a personal guide all the way there. It cost a little extra, but I said they wouldn't get that until the job is complete." Addison made her way back towards Hiji and Tuamanguluka. "Guys, can you take the weapons over to the house and wait for Skyler and myself? We'll be ready to leave out in about half an hour." Without reply, Hiji and Tuamanguluka carried the weapons towards Ona's house. Addison turned to Skyler; she was watching the children's game. "Sky, can you come here?"
"Sure." Skyler jogged over to Addison. They walked to a wooden bench beside a narrow tree and sat down. "Are you going to tell me what you found out?"
"Uh huh." Addison turned in the seat to face Skyler. She passed the heel of her hand along her cheekbone and felt the accumulating sheen of her perspiration. Though it was mid-afternoon the heat was still as intense and the humidity suffocating. "Okay… well, first of all we didn't exactly make it to Tuamanguluka's contact. We came across a band of ex-rebels in the jungle. When I saw the kind of weapons they were sporting I knew these were no run of the mill 'wannabe' bad boys. So… I approached them…"
"Just like that?"
"Well you know… in my own fashion."
Skyler pursed her lips. "Please don't tell me you did something crazy like jump down before them and make an offer they couldn't refuse!"
Addison shifted uncomfortably in her seat. "No… not quite." She cleared her throat. "Anyway... to cut a long story short Fela, one of the guys, took me to a guy called Sekou who was their apparent leader. He sold me the weapons and information."
"And?"
"And it seems Hawthorn… or more exactly his right hand man, has been recruiting security staff for the 'complex'. This guy was described as over six feet tall with a shaven head and lots of tattoos. Sound familiar?"
A mental image of one of Santos and Hawthorn's men appeared in Skyler's mind. "Definitely. So what's the security for?"
"Extra muscle around the boundary of the property. Seems they were specifically on the look out for ex-R.U.F. and West Side Boys. The eight men we met with were all that was left of the thirty-seven Sekou had been leading. Apparently the others found Hawthorn's offer just a little too tempting to refuse."
"What was his offer?"
Addison shrugged. "He was ready to offer anything and everything money can buy. The initial deal was a great wage with the ultimate fringe benefits once his … 'venture' was a success!"
A frown wrinkled Skyler's brow. "And we know that's more than a possibility." She pondered Addison's words. "So why didn't the other guys snap up Hawthorn's offer?"
"Ah… well you see, that is exactly what I asked. I mean… these guys aren't necessarily the most law abiding of folk. It turns out Sekou and the others seem kind of bigoted. To put it mildly they weren't too happy with some conceited white man coming to their country and throwing around promises of money and power if they do what he says. Sekou was a little… resentful of that… to say the least."
"So why did they agree to help you for money?"
"Two reasons." Addison smirked. "First because I was a little forceful in my request, but secondly and more importantly… I get Hawthorn and Santos out of the country."
Skyler chuckled. "I suppose that's a good enough reason as any!"
"My guess is Sekou feels he's lost power since Hawthorn arrived on the scene. His men aren't the only ones to be recruited by Hawthorn and Santos either." Addison leaned closer to Skyler. "I have to tell you, Sky. It seems we'll be up against a small army. Are you sure you're ready for this?"
"I'm sure you already have a few plans." Skyler winked. "And as long as they don't include some form of self sacrifice … then yes I'm ready,"
"Good… and no they don't." Addison delivered a wicked smile. "But it's going to be fun!"
"Oh brother!" A thought occurred to Skyler. "Addison what do you plan on doing with Sekou once this is over? You can't give him back whatever power he thinks he's lost. Lord only knows what he intends to do with it and to whom."
"Don't worry. I'll order an investigation into those guys after this is over." Addison rose. "So are you ready?"
The question seemed to hang in the air as Skyler pondered the pending events. Although they did hold certain advantages over Hawthorn and Santos, like them not knowing she and Addison had escaped the tomb, what the men held over them was a machine with immeasurable power and unknown capabilities. Governments and world leaders had the most highly powerful and advanced defence systems at their disposal for their protection of their people. Skyler wondered what protection they had in the event of these deadly weapons being used against them. She hoped they wouldn't have to find out.
"Sky?" Addison asked curiously. "You okay?"
"Yes, I'm okay and I'm ready." Skyler stood with assertiveness. "Lets go kick some ass!"
"Oh yes!" Addison placed her arm over Skyler's shoulders as they walked back towards Ona's home. "Did I ever tell you that you turn me on when you get all feisty like that?"
"Considering everything seems to affect you like that I'm not surprised!"
Addison's jaw fell indignantly. "What exactly are you implying?"
"I'll show you later," Skyler promised.
*********
Inside the inner depths of a windowless compound, Phoenix Hawthorn sat before an intricate web of computer display screens. There were eleven in total, ten of which surrounded the largest and main screen. The network of screens was situated in the centre of the room, built into a thick structure of transparent glass. A mirror image of each screen was reflected through the glass panel and portrayed to the opposite side of the room where Alexander Santos sat upon a white leather sofa. He lounged languidly upon the soft hide, watching Phoenix's work on the view screen before him. On the opposite side of the room was a large display screen. At that moment it displayed a twenty-four hour news channel.
Santos placed his feet upon a glass table. "Are you close?" He was tired of trying to memorise all the functions of this computer and threw down Phoenix's notes.
Without looking up from his furious typing, Hawthorn answered him sharply. "Just a couple more minutes."
"You said that a couple of minutes ago," Santos complained. He was never a patient individual. "I don't like waiting."
"You don't say!" Phoenix clenched his jaw. "Almost there." He tapped one more line of coding into the computer and then sat back as the 'Superman' theme tune blasted through surround sound speakers.
Xander bounded from his seat in surprise. Hands covering his ears he shouted," What the hell is that?" Phoenix answered with a wide grin, but his words were unheard over the overpowering boom of a room full of speakers. "Turn it down," he yelled.
Shaking his head, Phoenix lowered the volume considerably. "I said this is the celebration music for the birth of my super computer. Pretty cool, huh?"
"Cool? You're lucky I can still hear you!" Xander poked his index finger into his left ear and wiggled the digit furiously. "You don't have any more surprises like that do you?"
"Just what she'll be able to do once we insert the new processors. She's programmed so only you or I will be able to use her. Any outside interference with the programming will result in tripping the motion sensors. A password will be required to get her up and running. That password is 'Supergirl'."
Santos reached down to a velvet-lined tray containing two diamond processors. They had been constructed as soon as they reached Sierra Leone. The processors were cubed in shape and Santos had likened them to half the size of a 'Rubik's Cube'. Their internal structure, however, was extremely complex to the eye. Phoenix took one of the processors from its tray. Although it was covered in a transparent protective sheath, he held it at opposite corners and spun the diamond around on a slanted axis. "Absolutely beautiful."
"Are we ready to insert them into the CPU?"
With a nod, Phoenix placed the diamond into the pocket of his shorts. Taking the other diamond, Xander dropped it into his shirt pocket. He checked his watch. "Still on schedule. Excellent!" They exited the control room and took a steel ladder down to the room below. Before either man could go in, Santos entered a six-digit security code, which deactivated four armed motion sensors. They had been placed in each corner of the room and fired upon anybody who illegally entered the domain of the central processing unit. Dismounting the ladder, Xander stepped out of the dank, vertical shaft and into the sterile room.
Inside the barren domain of the C.P.U. the gentle tone of an air-conditioner broke the silence. The floor and ceiling were covered in metallic silver and the walls were completely mirrored. Each corner motion sensor flashed a green light indicating admittance.
"The chips have to be placed in simultaneously," said Phoenix as he stepped into the room and approached the C.P.U. It stood upon a solid glass block and its metallic casing reflected Phoenix as he pulled the diamond chip from his pocket and removed its soft sheath of protection. He pressed several buttons on the C.P.U. and its centre lid opened, revealing two gaps in which the processors were to be inserted. "Together."
"Together," Xander echoed as he readied the diamond processor above its socket. Phoenix mirrored his movements.
"Now I just need to restart the system." Phoenix's fingers danced over a small keyboard once again and he then waited as the system powered down. Overhead lighting flickered from green, to orange and then red. The red light remained, bathing the room in a scarlet glow. Then slowly the system began to re-power.
"On the fourth, right?"
Phoenix nodded and then the high-pitched beeping began. The men counted with it.
"One… two… three and GO!" They pushed the processors into place.
A slow hum, which had accompanied the C.P.U upon restart, turned into a rapid whir as the new system initiated itself. The red light turned from orange and then green before shining a bright white.
"Yahoo!" Phoenix clasped Xander's hand and they shook firmly. "We did it," he proclaimed.
"We did." Xander's eyes adopted a cold, hard stare. Unexpectedly he pulled a revolver from the back of his white trousers. "But now this little partnership must be dissolved."
Hawthorn laughed in amusement. "This is hardly time for practical jokes, Xander!"
Xander's expression remained cold. "Who's joking?" Without another word he pulled the trigger and fired one shot straight into the young man's heart. The colour drained from Phoenix's face as the organ was ripped inside his chest. A single tear fell from his eye as his body crumbled to the floor.
"ZAVREN!" Santos bellowed.
On cue, where he'd been awaiting Xander's word, Zavren appeared in the doorway. "Boss?"
Santos stood over Phoenix Hawthorn and stared down into his lifeless, pink eyes. "Help me remove the trash. So much to do and so little time when you have a nation to bring to its knees."
*********
Lifting the last of the three canvas bags, Addison placed it on Ona's table. She unbuckled its strap as Skyler opened the others. Inside them was a wide selection of weapons. Addison reached inside her carryon and withdrew three submachine guns, three pistols and a revolver. She looked over Skyler's shoulder and into the second carrier. Inside was enough ammunition for each type of weapon plus several hand grenades.
"Wow," Skyler drawled and reached into the bag, bringing out a grenade. "And there's only the two of us carrying all this?"
"Yep… hence the need for this." Addison opened the third bag. Inside it contained belts, holsters and straps for the use and carriage of each weapon upon their person. She pulled out a roll of red tape. "This is for the submachine gun mags. Tape two together at a time, end to end, to aid swifter reloading." She handed the tape to Skyler.
Skyler removed two pistol holsters. "Leg holsters as well. How many weapons are you planning on carrying, Addison?"
"As many as I can." Taking the leg holsters, Addison attached them to her belt and wrapped the lower straps around her thighs. She loaded all three of the pistols, placed two in the leg holsters and handed the third to Skyler. The doctor slipped it into a new holster clipped to the side of her belt. She then began taping the submachine gun magazines together as Addison donned a shoulder holster for her revolver. With her Berettas, she was now carrying five handguns.
"Addison…" Skyler placed down the tape as she finished the last magazine. "How many guards are you expecting?"
Addison stopped what she was doing and regarded Skyler seriously. "At least fifty… but maybe closer to a hundred."
"Holy sh… Addison, one hundred against two?"
"I've had worse odds… not by much, but…"
"Well I haven't…" Skyler lowered her voice, careful not to alarm the people waiting in the next room. "That's a whole hell of a lot of firepower against us."
Speaking calmly to ease Skyler's worries, Addison said, "Just remember… don't think ahead… concentrate only on that moment and removing the threat at that time."
Skyler nodded. Addison was right and she knew it. Without word she took her share of the pistol clips and loaded them into a vacant pocket. Addison had divided the ammunition, keeping two thirds for herself as she carried the higher percentage of weapons and would be leading their attack as much as possible. Again it was to be Skyler's job to attempt understanding of the computer. Mark Blithe had requested every effort be made in order to gain knowledge of Hawthorn's invention. Skyler informed Addison of this request, but Addison was less willing to try and accommodate Mark's appeal. Knowing the power of such a machine and being a great believer in the ideal world of simplistic living, her own life on the coast making simple wooden furniture a testament to that, Addison would rather destroy the computer completely. However much she appreciated and accepted the many benefits of modern technology, she preferred to live the simple life. Addison knew she would follow Mark's order, that was her job, but she didn't always have to agree. Once during a drunken speech in which Addison was putting the world to rights, she had stated happiness was a good woman and a good knife for whittling! In truth she believed those words more than she let on.
Night had just fallen by the time Addison and Skyler were ready to leave. The doctor adjusted the single submachine gun attached to her right side. It was heavier than it looked, but Skyler had been trained in its usage and as such was comfortable with its presence.
After tightening her bootlaces, Addison looked up at Skyler. "We better say goodbye."
"Right." Skyler followed Addison into the next room where Bem, Ona, Tuamanguluka, Hiji, Chich and Sule were talking quietly. Ashaki was asleep on her father's lap. They looked up at the women with a feeling of trepidation. Addison and Skyler were heavily armed and whatever was about to happen, it wouldn't be without tragedy.
"Time to make a move," Addison said softly. She knew there was no way she could lighten the mood of the evening… not considering the circumstances.
Ona rose to her feet slowly. "Not the last time you visit, I hope!"
Addison hugged the African woman warmly. "I'll be visiting soon, Ona, I promise." Releasing her, Addison watched Skyler and Ona embrace. She stepped over to Bem. The slight man remained seated with his sleeping daughter. "I'll be seeing you again soon, Bem." Addison grasped his forearm and they shook in a warrior-like show of respect.
"You are welcome in our home anytime, Addison Black."
"Thank you, Bem."
After the last farewells were made, Addison, Skyler and Hiji stepped out into the dark night. Both women held their kinetic torches. Turning to speak to Ona, Addison pulled a roll of notes from her pocket. She took Ona's hand and placed the Leones upon her palm.
"What is this?" Ona asked in amazed confusion.
"For you, your community, your school… every little helps, right?"
"This is not a little." Ona held the bundle of notes. It was so much more than she had ever seen at one time, if ever.
Addison shrugged. "It's to be used at my discretion and well … I didn't intend on using it all to buy these weapons." Addison ploughed on, not wanting Ona to pin too much importance on the gesture. "Anyway… we need to move out. I will see you soon, Ona. Keep well."
Ona took Addison's hand. "Be careful, Addison Black." She looked over at Skyler. "You too, Skyler Tidwell."
"I will, Ona." Skyler smiled and looked back at Addison. "Ready?"
"Yeah." With one final embrace the women, along with their guide, left for the jungle. Ona watched them leave, praying for God to watch over them. There wasn't a cloud in the night sky, but she knew a deadly storm was brewing.
Chapter 29
Trekking through the jungle… in the middle of the night… with torchlight as their only means of aided vision, Addison was beginning to wonder whether she'd made the smartest of moves. Her plan was to travel through the night and then rest during the day before completing those last few miles to the mountains and into Hawthorn's compound. It was to be an attack instigated under the cover of darkness. Addison didn't think there was any chance the men were aware they had escaped from Imhotep's temple, unless Hawthorn or Santos still had a man in Egypt. She could only hope that was not the case.
With Hiji taking the lead, Addison and Skyler followed three paces behind him. The blanketing darkness was alive with predators. All three trekkers felt the urge to look over their shoulders, but whatever was out there was unseen in the blackness. The dense coverage of leaves even shrouded their view of the night sky. The further they ventured into the jungle the less stars they could see until the atmosphere above them was nothing but an overwhelming ebony expanse.
Casting her torch around them, Skyler tentatively monitored their surroundings. Although she was unable to see them, she could sense lurking and hear the scurrying of nocturnal critters. It made her skin crawl with paranoia. "Hiji?" Skyler called to their guide. "Exactly how safe is it to be walking through the jungle at night?"
"If you know the jungle you are okay."
Skyler looked towards Addison. "I don't think I like that answer." Hiji certainly wasn't the most talkative of individuals. His command of English was of an average standard, but it seemed small talk was out of the question. The bearded man wanted nothing more than to complete his task and leave.
"It's cool, Sky, you're with two people who do know the jungle."
Skyler lowered her voice as she said, "At least I trust one of them!" A slight altercation had erupted just after they left. Addison refused to allow Hiji a weapon and he had taken great offence by that, implying she obviously didn't trust him. Addison simply agreed and requested he proceed. Recalling that event, Skyler said, "I don't think he likes us."
"You think?" Addison grinned in the darkness. She held her torch under her chin as she said, "Do you think I was unreasonable?"
"Hell no, I perfectly agreed with you."
"Well amen, sister." Addison moved the torchlight back to where Hiji was still making a pathway through thick overhanging vines.
"How far is Hiji leading us?"
"Until we get there. He doesn't leave until I have visual proof we're at the right place."
"What are you expecting, Addison?"
"When we get there?"
Skyler nodded. "Yes."
Addison hooked the thumb of her free hand onto her belt buckle. "This is what I do… consider every scenario from the easiest to the deadliest… and that's exactly what I'll expect… anything and everything. The only way to avoid any nasty surprises is to go into a situation without any preconceptions." Addison shook her torch, re-powering its kinetic generator.
Arching an eyebrow in curiosity, Skyler asked, "Does that mean you're expecting time travelling, muscle-bound assassins?"
"Hey… I've watched enough episodes of the X-Files to know you have to leave yourself open to 'extreme possibilities'… but I will say my gut instinct isn't convinced of that."
"So what does your gut instinct tell you?"
"That Hawthorn is one smart bastard and with his technical background… I'm expecting traps all around his base as well as a small, well equipped army."
Addison's expectations were very much what Skyler herself had been anticipating. "Yeah, that's what I'm afraid of." After studying Hawthorn's university papers, Skyler was able to gain insight into the young man's psyche. She didn't like what she saw. She discovered no evidence in his written work to suggest malicious intent, however, his actions told a different story. Phoenix Hawthorn had become swept away in a tidal wave of his own genius and Alexander Santos played a heavy part in his escalating corruption. With Hawthorn's lack of morals and innate genius, he would be capable of anything.
To the left, a loud rustling pulled their attention. Both Addison and Skyler turned, instantly shining their torchlight into the darkness. "Can I be paranoid now?"
"We probably just scared a little jungle critter," Addison said, assuring Skyler there wasn't a ferocious beast waiting in the darkness to pounce upon them.
"Addison, I'm well aware of the animals who live out here. If it's okay I'll keep my paranoia. I'm particularly worried about leopards, panthers, wild hogs, snakes, and a plethora of spiders! God forbid we move along the river!"
Hiji turned to face Skyler "There are many crocodiles along the river…"
Addison shone her torchlight into Hiji's face and he squinted in its beam. "Well cheers then, mouth almighty! I didn't hire you to create hysteria!"
"I was making a conversation."
"I appreciate your efforts, but pick a different subject please." Addison blew out a weary breath. "It's bad enough having to deal with pesky mosquitoes and looking out for boa constrictors… we don't need to magnify the situation by adding more to the list." Addison shone her torch past Hiji. "Let's just keep moving, shall we?"
Spinning the machete in his hand, Hiji turned and continued their trek. If it were possible, the darkness around them seemed to intensify. Addison heard an owl hoot in a nearby tree. She shone her torch into the trees until yellow eyes reflected the beam with an eerie presence.
"Ah… No!" Skyler shook her head frantically.
"What… What's wrong?" Addison asked in alarm.
"Something heavy… and I'm guessing with more than six legs… just landed on my head." Skyler scrubbed her fingers through her hair and shivered.
The agent winced. "That was probably my fault. I thought I felt a cobweb brush against my face!" Addison pulled the spider's silk from her cheeks and forehead. "The little bugger!"
"That was no little bugger, Addison. That spider felt like it wouldn't have done any harm to start a Jenny Craig plan."
Prodding her bottom lip, Addison said, "Now I know that was supposed to be some kind of joke, but what's a Jenny Craig?"
"Weight loss!"
"Ah!" Addison chuckled, but then shivered. "Oh… eww!"
"Uh huh! I think we're in an arachnophobic nightmare, Addison." Skyler moved her torchlight over the trees above them. "Addison look at this tree here, it's the Frankincense tree or 'Oldfleldia Afrscana'. They can grow up to one hundred and fifty feet high. That might actually reach higher than your ego!"
"Nah, I doubt it." Addison dropped behind Skyler, taking up the rear of their trail. Hiji remained five paces ahead of the women, removing obstructive branches. "Besides, you're the one who seems to think I have this monumental ego… yet here you are identifying tropical trees with their correct names… oh goddess of the eternal student. On a comparative level I think you win hands down."
"I have an ego?"
"Oh come on… you don't think I buy that dizzy blonde look, do you? I see those brunette roots showing through."
Skyler was incredulous. "I'm a natural blonde!"
"I think you mean nurtured blonde." Addison snickered and jumped backwards as Skyler attempted to poke her foot back into the agent's body.
"You'll get yours," the doctor promised. "I'm a patient girl."
Addison smiled and a comfortable mood eased around them. Despite the oncoming battle, the eerie darkness and creepy sounds there was reassurance between Addison and Skyler, which allowed them to maintain a calming influence over each other.
They walked in relative silence for another forty minutes until reaching a small clearing. The remnants of a fire lay in its centre, charred logs and rain-soaked ashes in a shallow pit. For a moment, Addison presumed this was to be their place of rest, but Hiji informed her they were still too far away from their final destination. They also happened to be far too close to a small tribe who were not very welcoming to outsiders. Not wanting any unnecessary confrontations, Addison agreed to move on. She was sure the sight of them with an arsenal of weapons would be a rather unsettling scene. So on they travelled, further and further east on a route which would take them all the way to the mountains and Hawthorn's compound.
*********
The roar of a powerful car's engine escalated in volume as a British racing green, Jaguar XK8 Coupe approached and sped into Special Operation's car park. The sports car swerved, brakes screeching as it turned and came to a halt in the nearest parallel parking space. The engine died and Mark Blithe emerged from the driver's door, dressed in casual jeans and a black shirt.
Locking his car, Mark pushed the keys into his pocket as he ran speedily across the car park to a metal door. Once there he swiped a card through a chest high lock and it opened. Mark entered a small box-room, no bigger than the size of a telephone cubical. On the wall was a hand identification device. He pushed his right hand into the gel like pad and his fingerprints were scanned, acknowledged, accepted and granted access through a second door. Walking into a narrow tunnel, Mark found a shuttle ready and waiting. He entered the carriage to find Joseph awaiting his arrival.
"What's the situation, Joe?"
"Control of our satellite was hijacked approximately forty-seven minutes ago. Just before that we were able to intercept a transmission sent to the B.B.C. requesting an audience with the Prime Minister." The shuttle began its journey to H.Q. "We've been unable to access the source of this transmission… our system has been…well... frozen. We've tried several different systems to attempt to and locate the source, but each was intercepted with lightening speed."
Mark already knew who was behind this. "It's safe to say it originated in Sierra Leone. Have we had any other communication since the initial request?"
"Yes… we have another…" Joseph checked his watch. "Seventeen minutes to produce the P.M. or 'playtime will begin ahead of schedule'. Sir, do you know what that means?"
"I dread to think, but it looks like playtime has already begun anyway," Mark said, referring to the chaos, which was slowly increasing. The shuttle stopped under Headquarters; Mark and Joseph alighted the carriage. "Has the P.M. arrived?"
Joseph nodded, "Arrived just before I left to meet you. He's in your office."
"Right." With wide strides, Mark ate up the distance between him and his office. He was well aware of the situation in Sierra Leone and his agent's mission to put an end to the building of a super computer for criminal usage. It did, however, seem Hawthorn and Santos were more than one step ahead of them in its completion. This was less than good news. The fight had begun.
*********
In the very nerve centre of M.I.5 Special Operations H.Q. Mark Blithe stood in front of the main Visual Display Unit. With hands clasped lightly behind his back he stared at the seventy-two inch monitor. Beside him stood the Prime Minister of England, anxiously waiting for contact. Previously informed of Special Operation's activity in Sierra Leone, he knew the situation was of the utmost urgency and importance.
The area around them was a nucleus of activity. Bodies ran back and forth in desperate attempts to regain control from a situation in which they had none. Reports were shouted in succession across the room to Mark.
"Sir, the Air Force has grounded all planes," one voice shouted.
"Another two planes have collided mid-air over the Midlands."
Running a hand through his hair, Mark braced his hands upon the back of Danny Sleet's chair. "Anything?"
"No contact yet," Danny replied seriously. "We're attempting uplinks with every satellite, but with no success. Every route we take is being intercepted and blocked."
"Blocked?" asked the Prime Minister.
"Taken over, Sir. We're losing control of our systems. In the last fifteen minutes alone all telephone lines have gone down, as has the mobile network. All flights throughout the country have been grounded after the satellite transmissions died and there have been three… no make that four mid-air collisions. Emergency services are being dispatched nationwide. We're working on communication through radio waves and have been in contact with the Army, R.A.F. and the Navy. Right now the whole country is on stand-by."
From the opposite side of the room a female soldier shouted over to Mark. "Last link's down, Sir, only the B.G. link to the A.S.C. remains. Permission to…"
"Denied," Mark interrupted. "Not yet anyway." The B.G. link was their Below Ground link to the Airborne Satellite Craft. It was specially constructed satellite installed in a Boeing 757 aircraft. Being independent and a top-secret project, it had only been used in test runs with highly effective results. Mark was reluctant to use it, however, until he received some form of contact from Addison and Skyler or gave them enough time to reach the secret compound of Hawthorn and Santos.
Mark began pacing back and forth. "What links to the outside world do we have left?"
Danny was first to reply. "Radio contact with other military bases who have all reported systems failure. Troops have been sent out to calm any civilian panicked reactions to the situation. We also have one terrestrial television link and that's with the B.B.C. All others are down." Danny switched on a screen for Mark. "They already started a report on the nationwide breakdown in communications. I don't know how long we'll have this television, but we're monitoring all available sources. Seems they've discovered the limited passage of information through radio as well."
"That will give another connection to what's happening out there." Mark addressed the Prime Minister. "Sir, I think we should…"
"Incoming transmission, Sir. Audio only."
Knowing there was little choice in whether they accepted the transmission or not, Mark could only wait.
"Good day, gentlemen," came a distorted, albeit human, male voice.
Both Mark and the Prime Minister remained momentarily silent.
"Ah, I see there's no time for pleasantries when you are anxious to do business. Having control of your mainframe, I'm patched through to your visual connection and can see the honourable Prime Minister is with us as well. Nice to know I can rely upon your punctuality."
"Sir," the Prime Minister began. "I am not in the habit of yielding to threats or intimidation. I must also inform you Britain does not submit to terrorist or make deals. I don't know what it is you hope to achieve by this act of…"
"Terrorist… intimidation… I don't believe I have yet done anything that can be considered a terrorist act."
Mark closed the distance between himself and the Prime Minister until they were standing side by side. "Then what is it you want? What is the purpose of these acts? Do you have any idea just how many innocent lives you have taken already?"
"The purpose of my actions so far is to show you just what I am capable of. As for what I want out of this… Prime Minister… when the world is at its knees and ripe for the picking… what wouldn't you want? Be advised, gentlemen, a new world order is beginning and guess who's seated upon its throne!"
Their line of communication died, leaving the room filled with a static hiss. Making eye contact with the Prime Minister, Mark walked towards the exit, indicating he was to be followed. They passed through a fire door to a wide stairway.
"We may well have one advantage over them after all, Sir."
The Prime Minister's face was stern. "How so?"
"He doesn't seem to have any knowledge of our agent's presence in Sierra Leone."
"And you are sure these are the same people responsible for the murders in Egypt?"
"Without a doubt."
"Then let us hope…"
"… Agents Black and Tidwell," Mark supplied.
"That's right. Let's hope agents Black and Tidwell are prepared for what lies ahead."
"Agents Addison Black and Skyler Tidwell are my first two-man operational team. My faith lies with them one hundred percent, Sir."
The Prime Minister nodded. "That's good, General Blithe, because right now they may well be this country's best and only hope."
*********
Addison's eyes flickered and blinked open. The hazy glare of the afternoon sun shone down upon her, momentarily blurring her vision. She shielded her eyes, using her hand as a visor to look around. Addison had been sleeping for the past four hours when something had awoken her. She wasn't sure what it was, as their temporary campsite seemed solitary and peaceful. Both Hiji and Skyler slept undisturbed by whatever had triggered Addison's senses.
Looking into the sky, Addison saw something ominous looming over the mountaintops. Thick, grey storm clouds steadily approached. A distant rumble echoed over the mountains and Addison realised this was the source of her wake up call. A storm was brewing. "Great."
Hiji had chosen a small valley at the foot of the mountains to set up their camp. They had barely reached the foothills before stopping for a few hours of much needed rest and refreshments. Sleep was a necessity if they were to be alert and on top form.
Another rumble of thunder rolled over the mountains. The sound caused Skyler to wake suddenly and she said, "Really does sound like that."
With a bemused expression, Addison looked to her right where Skyler lay propped against a rock. "Excuse me?"
"Huh?" Skyler blinked in disorientation.
Addison smiled. "You said 'it really does sound like that'. What are you talking about?"
Skyler's eyes moved from side to side. She had no idea what Addison was referring to. "When?"
"Just now."
"I did?" Skyler rubbed her eyes.
"Yes!" The clouds drew closer and another clash of thunder echoed around them. This appeared to jog the doctor's memory.
"Oh… I know what I was talking about... it's the thunder."
"Okay?"
"Sierra Leone. The country was named by… who was that guy…?" Skyler frowned and drummed her fingers upon her knee. "It begins with a… oh that's it… Pedro da Cintra in 1460. It means Lion Mountains or Mountains of the Lions, supposedly because the thunder rolling through the mountains sounds like a lion's roar."
"Uh huh." Although understanding Skyler's explanation, Addison was curious about something else. "Sky, do you even think in your sleep? Were you having a conversation with somebody in your dreams? Do you ever switch off?" Rising, Addison brushed down her combat pants and then reached for her Diemaco Rifle, slinging it across her back.
"I don't recall my dreams that well," Skyler said as she rose beside Addison, noticing Hiji was also coming around. He stretched out his back and took a long drink of water before looking into the sky.
"We have a storm. It is going to be hard."
"Well that's just buggering great!" Addison looked at the menacing storm clouds. She could now see approaching rain as thunder and lightning increased in ferocity and volume. To Addison it was a sign of the events to come. A war, although isolated and unbeknownst to many, could affect every country on the planet. There was no room for error; failure wasn't an option. There was, however, something Addison was unaware of… no matter what occurred during this night… the rise of a new morn would herald changes far greater than she could have believed.
End of part 7
Concluded in Part 8