Pain

Giving a smile and a laugh Jess sits back in her chair taking a sip of her water. It had been a nice day so far and the normal lunchs about 2 times a week broke up the time nicly. Not to mention just chatting with Axel was a blast as well.

About to continue on the topic Jess see Axel look to the side and turns to see what he was looking at. Quirking an eye brow at Rocky fecal expression Jess turns back to Axel with question wondering if he new what was up or not.

Looking at Rocky again a look of question cross her face at his words. Confusion and a bit of fear runs through Jess at Rocky's anger and acusations. She had never seen him like this before and could hardly say anything.

"Ro...wha..."

Not being able to get the words out Jess just sits frozen in her seat. Just continuing to listen and watch Jess is thrown off guard and gives a whimper as Rocky throws and connects his punch at Axel.

Almost shrinking in her chair Jess cant do anything untill she hears the words about Axel being in jail. Looking to Axel Jess eyes plead with him to tell that this was not true. But as no words come Jess dosnt know what to say. Her eyes follow Axel on his way out. She feel a suddon crash inside her and the feeling of being betrayed and having someone ripped away from her that she had learned to trust. The feeling was like nothing she had ever felt before, and it make her so sick she though she might throw up.

Hearing Rocky's question a tear rolls from Jess eye as she says nothing for a moment. Than finally she looks up at Rocky her eyes bloodshot though not many tears came out of them. Her hurt, the pain was on the inside.

"I dont think so. I just want to go home."

Gathering her things together Jess stands though feels a little wobbaly and still sick to her stomace. Though steadying herself she goes to pay and make her way for the door. People were stairing she didnt like it. Everything hurt inside and she just wanted to get out, to get away.

Past revealed

"Yeah... it was hard." Kyle doesn't open his eyes at first, but continues to think in the quiet. Finally though, he takes a deep breath and looks over to Alice, quirking a smile. "One down, one to go, then it's freedom time."

He gives a nod, almost as if more to assure himself than her. "And then the adventure begins." Mustering up any gumption he's got left, he pushes off the wall and slings an arm around Alice's shoulders to take her back in the other room with him. "You realize that since you're here, I'm going to put you back to work helping us load up."


The rest of the evening goes smoothly. No one really talks about Kyle leaving, letting the atmosphere stay light. Heading out for pizza, laughter comes easily, and the small group enjoys themselves. Saying goodnight, everyone is tired so heading home is easy. Tomorrow was another day... tomorrow for Kyle meant one more event. Tomorrow for the others meant the first day without the same JetStream...


Kyle groans and hits his alarm clock again. It was eleven in the morning. He ached, he was tired... but if he didn't get up and going, he'd never be able to meet Cryptic at three o'clock. Rolling himself out of bed, it's the same routine. Nothing was different. The apartment was quiet. Phil was gone for the day. Just as well... otherwise he'd be bugging Kyle about the oddity of his exhaustion.


Rocky wanders into the auto shop, tapping his knuckles on the door to get someone's attention. Leo pops up from a car engine and comes over, wiping his hands on a rag. "Hi, can I help you?"

Rocky nods, looking around. "Yeah, I'm looking for Axel. He working today?"

Leo purses his lips. "Uh.... no... no, he's not."

Rocky furrows his brow. "Oh. I thought he was. Is he just out on lunch?"

"I don't know. He, um... he's not working here right now."

Now Rocky was getting confused. "What do you mean?"

Leo bites his tongue. He shouldn't have heard the conversations he'd heard the day before. He shoudn't have stood and listened. He shouldn't have known about everything, but... he hadn't been able to help it. "Um... I... I shouldn't say anything, ya know?"

Rocky's eyes narrow. He'd only seen Leo a couple times, and didn't know him personally. But now was not the time to be skirting around this issue. Rocky needed to find Axel to talk to him about tonight, and he wasn't answering his cell phone. "I'm Axel's friend. Now... tell me what's going on."

"No, man... I mean... I don't know everything."

"Did he get fired or what?"

"Not... not exactly."

Rocky sighs and sets his hands on his hips. "Look, I haven't got all day."

Leo glances around the shop, seeing that no one else was around. "Well... I heard Darrel talking to him..."


Axel leans back in the booth, giving Jess a quirky grin after something funny had been said. "So... tonight we got a gig. Don't know what we'll be doing after that though, on account of Logan and Kyle."

He pauses, taking a sip of his water. The little diner was quiet today, and he was enjoying the peaceful lunch with Jess. Though there was a lot on his mind, and a lot that was weighing heavily on him, he liked just forgetting about it for a while. No watch, no cell phone... just letting time go by for once. He hadn't said anything to anybody about his job, but wasn't planning to until he knew what Darrel was going to do with him.


"Taylor?" Rocky knocks on her apartment door. He tries the doorknob, finding it open, and he rolls his eyes. He'd told her a million times to keep her door locked. Getting inside, he takes a quick look around. "Taylor?" No answer. Hopefully, that was a good thing. But the sickening feeling in the pit of his stomach was still there. After what Leo had told him, he'd checked Axel's apartment to find it empty. But then putting two and two together about how Taylor had been acting around Axel lately, Rocky had gone to her apartment next just to check on things.

Sighing, he looks around. Thankfully, nothing seemed amiss. He's just about ready to leave, when he sees her answering machine blinking. On a whim, he hits the play button. But he hadn't expected to hear the apology from Axel. If Rocky hadn't believed Leo before, he did now. This proved Axel's character, making Rocky feel all the more sick. His own phone rings.

"Yeah, hello?"

"Hey, Rock. It's Max. I just drove past the little diner on fifth, on my way to work. Saw Axel's car. Knew you were looking for him. I think he's there with Jess."

Rocky immediately bristles. "Thanks. He must not have his phone on him today. I'll go see if I can catch him. He hangs up without even saying goodbye, and is quickly out the door and down the steps, sprinting for his car. Jess. Why did Axel have to be with Jess? He wasn't about to waste any time. Not with this.


Axel is just about to say something more to Jess, when his eye catches the door to the diner opening. Looking up, he's surprised to see Rocky. A smile would have appeared, but the look on Rocky's face warned him that this was not a social call.

Rocky's stride is long and deliberate, his eyes narrowing into a glare. Though not wishing to make a scene in front of Jess, it would have to be ignored. "Axel?"

Axel looks up from his chair, becoming leery. He couldn't remember a time he'd seen Rocky this upset. He hadn't even greeted them. "Yeah, Rocky. What is it? What's wrong?" Now he regretted not carrying his phone with him.

"Did you really think you could get away with it?" Rocky hisses. "Did you really think we wouldn't find out?"

Axel searches his face, desperate to know what his friend was talking about. "Find out what? What are you talking about?"

Rocky's anger reaches a high. As if Axel wouldn't know. And seeing him here with Jess just made it worse. "I don't know why they let you out." His tone is full of the anger and betrayal he felt as his fist balls up at his side. "Someone like you deserves..." His words trail off as his temper gets the best of him.

Before Axel can even react, Rocky's knuckles meet his mouth in a hard right. He's hit with such force that he's knocked out of his chair and sprawls on the floor, dazed. Blinking, he puts a hand to his bleeding lip and looks up to Rocky with the look of a hurt and confused child who might have just been slapped for no reason. Tears would have come, had it not been for the confusion, and he looks wildly to Jess, then back to Rocky. He was too confused to try getting up just yet, afraid another punch would be thrown in his direction.

Rocky rubs his knuckles, knowing that he shouldn't have hit anybody, but he was so upset, and with someone he'd thought he knew.

Moving to the side, he keeps himself between Axel and Jess in a protective stance. "The truth is out, Axel. You've spent time behind bars and thought you could keep it a secret."

Axel's face pales, fear flashing through his eyes. They knew. No... how could they? This couldn't be happening. "Rocky, please." His tone is one of begging. Not here... not in front of Jess. "Please don't do this."

But Rocky wasn't about to let this one go. Not something as big as this. He looks to Jess grimly, though his expression is partially one of apology. He didn't want this information to hurt her, but greater yet, he didn't want Axel to hurt her. His eyes fall back to Axel. "I'm sorry. But I won't ignore anyone convicted of rape."

Axel felt as though he would be sick. He couldn't even bring himself to look at Jess, and his eyes finally fall from Rocky's. Picking himself up off the floor, he wipes his lip again, smearing blood on his hand. What he felt was pure devastation. He couldn't even begin to imagine the consequences of this scene.

His head down, he shoulders past Rocky, heading for the door, but a strong arm stops him.

Rocky's glare shows his own hurt and confusion mixed with the anger. "Touch Taylor or Jess again, and you'll pay."

Axel swallows hard. He had no fight. He had no way to argue or defend himself. He couldn't fight the truth. Hanging his head again, he goes for the door. Within seconds, his car is driving away.

Rocky watches to make sure he's gone before looking back at Jess. "I'm sorry," he apologizes quietly. His eyes show genuine care and concern. "Are you okay?"

Goal

Seeing Kyle make the can into the garbage Alice does a little hope in the air and throws her arms up.

"AND ITS GOOD!!!!!"

Followed with a laughter and a small push to Kyle she follows after him to him.

Jess mouth makes an O as she hears about Kyle. He was good at singing and playing the keybored but after how the band has acted the other night she wasnt saprised and not to sure she would of done it differntly.

"Well I guess we all need a change from the same old rutean once and a while huh? Ya never know he might be back after he just has some time."

The hour pass quickly and before anyone knows it, its time for the consert to start. Finding her seat Alice sits about 5 chairs away from the sound booth. Keeping her focus on Kyle the whole night she enjoys the music and the same never leaves her face. The energy running through the building and as the night comes to an end and Phil says his peace the crows starts to cheer for Kyle and maybe Alice's voice was one of the loudest.

As Kyle goes to the keybored again and the crowd quiets Alice watches him even more closly as she sways just a little to the music. The song held a sence of sadness and a sence of overcoming to it and Alice liked it. Watching Kyle walk off stands Alice makes her way through the people once more and pass infront of the soundbooth to where Kyle had slipped out.

Coming up along side him Alice leans aganst the wall and it quiet for several moments.

"You did good tonight and it must of been hard huh?"

Alice isnt quiet sure what alse to say. She didnt want to tell him it would be ok, and the same speach as she had before about moving on and trying new things. All she could do was be a friend to Kyle liked he needed and be there, the shoulder he could lean on. So staying silent Alice stays leaned agasnt the wall as the hall falls quiet being a friend she new Kyle needed.

All I got to lose

Kyle tilts his head back to finish off the can of pop, then chucks it halfway across the room to a garbage can, making a basket. "Yes!" He raises his arms in victory. "Two points!"

Spinning back around to Alice, he grins. "Yes. Speakers. Come here and I'll show you what I need."

Jen watches Kyle and Alice interact, lifting an eyebrow. Interesting. "Hey, Phil?"

"Yeah?"

Jen keeps her voice down. "How long has Kyle known Alice?"

"I don't know. Why?"

"Just curious. They act like they've been friends for years, but I've never seen her before, have you?"

"Nope."

Jen shrugs. Kyle had been acting strangely lately anyway - any more oddness shouldn't be surprising.


Axel works while listening to Jess. He shakes his head slowly. "Kyle's pulling out." He sighs and stands up straight, finished with the duct tape. He heads back to the sound table and motions for Jess to follow him, offering her a chair next to him. "Rocky asked him to sing for Cryptic since Logan is off for a while at least. He's singing tomorrow night for us, but otherwise, this is it. Not sure why, but... this is his last JetStream night. He's heading out with some group from a youth organization, so neither band is on his calendar anymore."

Axel fools with some sound settings. "I think that's why Jen let me help her with this tonight - she wanted to spend more time with her brother."


The night progresses with minimal stress. Though JetStream was tense about Kyle's position, they kept their act together and pleased the audience as always. Despite the absence of Jason, the crowd was on their feet and clapping as soon as the show started.

Up front, Kyle took on the position he had other times Jason had been gone, but this time was different... this time he was being himself, and the sound was better than ever.

Standing behind his keyboard, Kyle sings, letting his eyes roam the audience, often landing on Alice to throw her a smile. Staying in focus tonight was extremely difficult. Any instant of remembering this was his last night with JetStream would make him miss a beat. He had to shove all those thoughts and emotions aside, and he made Alice be his one point to stay with it.

His voice rings out crisp and true, for the first time with JetStream, giving his all. Phil and Mike back him up well, and Kyle skillfullly slipped into his quirky role between songs to get people laughing. Normally it was natural. Tonight it had to be deliberate, because he didn't feel much like laughing.

The night runs on, and finally, the notes of the last song are dying away. But instead of saying goodnight, Phil stops the show, not letting Mike or Kyle leave the stage. "Well y'all..." He uses his microphone to adress the audience. "Most of you probably don't know that this was Kyle's last night with JetStream."

Groans of disappointment come as the response. Kyle steps back from his keyboard, forcing half a smile, not sure what his brother was doing.

Phil nods. "We all come to points in our lives where we move up and move on. And I guess Kyle's at one of those points."

Jen sits next to Jess beside the sound table, a tear running down her cheek. She was going to miss her brother so much, and she didn't even understand why he was doing this.

Phil clears his throat. "Jason will be around as always, but we're going to miss our keyboard player..." He nods. "And our brother." Moving forward, he reaches out to shake Kyle's hand. "We love you, Kyle."

The audience starts to clap, proving there were fans there who had been listening to JetStream for years, having fallen in love with all the band members.

Kyle swallows hard, fighting his emotions. He knew Phil was sincere, and he appreciated it.

Phil turns back to the crowd and grins. "How about we ask him to do us one more song, eh?" The cheers make him laugh. "What do you say, Kyle?"

Kyle hadn't planned on this. He looks around to Mike, then Jen and Axel, then finds Alice again. How could he refuse? Managing a smile, he returns to his keyboard. Glancing up, his eyes scan the room. He didn't know which song to choose.

Phil comes up behind him and speaks quietly in his ear, not letting the audience hear. "You said you'd written a new one."

"Sure," Kyle whispers, "But you and Mike don't know it."

"So?" Phil was proud of his brother, and proved it. Backing away, he points to Kyle and claps, encouraging the audience to do the same. "Kyle Mitts, folks." He retreats from the spotlight, unstrapping his bass, and signalling to Mike that they wouldn't have to back up Kyle for this one.

Kyle hesitates, but finally pulls himself together enough to start playing his keyboard. Letting the music build for several measures, the room grows quiet, all listening, all watching.

Closing his eyes, Kyle lets his fingers find their way across the strong melody that produced invigorating emotions.

All I got to lose is the pain inside,
All I got to lose is the fear I hide.
All I got to lose is the darkness killing me.

All I got to lose is one chance tonight,
All I got to lose is the inner fight.
All I got to lose is the war defeating me.

So why... don't I run?
Why don't I try to make a difference?
Why... don't I run? Don't I run?

All I got to gain is a better way.
All I got to gain is to sail away.
All I got to gain is a life beyond my reach.

All I got to gain is a clearer view.
All I got to gain is the scattered few.
All I got to gain is a heart void of fear.

So why... don't I run?
Why don't I try to make a difference?
Why... don't I run? Don't I run?

All I got to lose is a past behind me.
All I got to gain is a path in front of me.
All I got to lose is the darkness killing me.

All I got to gain is a brightened future.
All I got to lose is a pain without a cure.
All I got to gain is a life beyond my reach.

So why... don't I run?
Why don't I try to make a difference?
Why... don't I run? Don't I run?

The final notes die away, and the room is deathly quiet. Until someone claps. Another stands. And soon everyone is cheering their farewell. Kyle smiles and waves to them, making eye contact with Jen so he can wink at her, and Alice too so he can nod his thanks for her being there too.

Making his way offstage, the lights come back on, and as quickly as the night had begun, it was over. The noise of the crowd leaving filled the room. The band started to pack up almost immediately, knowing that it was getting late.

Axel turns in his seat to look at Jen. "Well... that's that, then. I'm gonna stick around to pack up and will probably go out for pizza. You're... more than welcome to come." He gives her a little smile, proving that it was a sincere invitation.

Kyle doesn't say much to the others, and while packing up, he quietly slips out into the hall where it was empty. Leaning back against the wall, he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. A lot of things were running through his mind... a lot of things.


Ryder can't help his laugh at Katie. "Ya know... for some reason, I think I'd rather wrestle a croc than you. I can beat a croc - I'm not so sure I could beat you."

Shaking his head, he makes usure the coast is still clear, then motions for her to follow him again. "Come on. We need to get Carson and Jason out of here before more guys come. Not all of them will be that stupid."

Pass

Grasping Ryder's hand back Katie lets a look of fear cross her face as she looks at the man's shotgun bringing herself closer to Ryder.

Just listing to him and the other man talk Katie stays close keeping her face expression the same. As Ryder starts away again Katie still stays close following after till till Ryder pulls her off the side of the road.

Brushing herself off she looks up at Ryder and shakes her head as a grin spread across her lips. If in the postion he was in to protect someone she probley would of done the same thing so she had no idea why he was saying sorry.

"I think I'll refrain from hitting you at this moment. I dont wanna hurt ya."

Katie cant help but throw a playful wink at Ryder.

Laughing and taking Kyle's mountain dew Alice takes a quick sip.

"Ya know, I think you right actually, and now that I have had some of this. I'll be even hyper with you."

Alice hands the can back to Kyle.

"Speaker right, lets get to it."

Jess smiles back at Axel as she continues to help him.

"Its nice to see a rainbow to break up the storms normal ordinary day."

Standing again Jess moves down a little bit more continuing to help. It really was nice to be here and help. It made her feel like she really did have something to do to be of some kind of help. Getting out of the house was always nice after all the strange things that has been happing.

"Hows everthing been going here? Good after what happend last time with Kyle?"

Now's the part

While glad for Katie's acting skills, Ryder suddenly realizes that this may have not been his best choice ever. It was just as well that someone was coming.

"Oy! What's this?" A man's tone is harsh, and the sound of a cocking rifle follows.

Ryder lets go of Katie quickly, backing up a step, but letting his hand fall to hers where he holds it tightly, warning her not to react. He eyes the man warily. "Whoa, take it easy, mate." He raises a hand in surrender. "I'm not a wild boar if that's what you're hunting."

The man squints with distrust. "And what are you hunting then with those sidearms of yours?"

Ryder gives a little laugh. "You expect me to bring her out here without something to fend off the crocs? I might be crazy, but I'm not stupid."

"You come all the way out here for nothing but a walk in the park, ay?"

"Well..." Ryder throws him a wink. "Let's not get too specific, shall we? I didn't know we were trespassing."

"I won't report you if you two move along. Go get a motel and quit hanging around the bush. Next time I'm liable to shoot before making sure you're not out for more than a good time."

"Right. Sorry for the scare." Ryder steps to the side, his hand still on Katie's to take her with him. "Come on, love." Once they're safe behind several trees and shrubs, he pulls her off the path and keeps quiet until he sees the man go back the way he'd come. "The Agency hires some real idiots," he whispers. "He didn't even think that we're five miles off the nearest road."

Letting out a breath, Ryder shuts his eyes tight as he grimaces. He could have been a little more creative than that, and a bit of color comes to his face. "Sorry about that." He glances down at Katie, fighting against the feelings that tried to distract him from their mission. "I guess now's the part where I should tell you that you can slap me if you want."


Kyle laughs at Alice. "As if there are times when you're not having fun." He offers her his Mountain Dew. "Fuel up, then you can help me set up the speakers."


Axel fidgets with the sound board, getting things plugged into the right places, and making sure things were straight. Normally Jen did all of this, but he'd volunteered, and she hadn't seemed to mind a bit. At least it kept his mind and hands busy... right now, that was a plus.

Getting up, he goes to set some cords straight, retrieving the roll of duct tape to make sure everything was held down in place and no one would be tripping over anything throughout the evening.

As he bends over, he hears a familiar voice and smiles. Looking up, he gives her a little nod. "Storm clouds are always welcome in a rainbow's world."

Feeling

Giving a smile and a nod Alice cant help but smile as she saw the Article and Kyle looked at it. Not paying much attachen to the discomfort in the room she cant help but giggle and give a quick slap to Kyles arm before taking Mikes hand and smiling.

"Its nice to finally meet you Mike..."

Than turning to Phil she smiles again and takes his hand.

"...nice to meet you as well Phil."

Turning again Alice jogs to catch up with Kyle filled with her normal energy and being this close to the band and excitment just adds to it.

"So can I help with something? I am off the clock today so I can have all the fun I want."

Entering the hall Jess walks slow to the front and makes her way to the stage. Seeing Axel she walks slowly over to him and gives a wave.

"Hey, need some help."

Bending down Jess colds a cord in place for Axel as he tapes it.

As Ryder pulls Katie close her own eyes widen. What on earth. Before even a second though his lips are pressed to her as she gives a small jump. Not being able to help the small amount of pleasure that washed over her before she brings herself back to the face that this was wrong. But feeling something alse Katie's second instince kicks on telling her for the moment to keep tits up.

Wrapping her arms around Ryder Katie trys to make it look as real as she could. If she found out later that this was just Ryders way to kissing her she slap him than.

Article

Ryder grins, not to admit right now that he had, in fact, taken down a few crocs. "Well, as long as you're not mad, then come on, bodyguard. Let's make sure the coast is still clear."

Heading a ways further down the trail, they come back to the calm river. Ryder leans up against a tree, scanning the bank and keeping an eye out the way they'd come, to ensure no one had followed. He squats down to check out the ground, making sure there were no new footprints, at least where their group had crossed.

Suddenly though, movement catches his eye. His instincts kick in, and warn him that the figure moving towards them was a foe, not a friend, and he stands.

Thinking quickly, Ryder reaches out and grabs Katie, bringing her in close to him. He could only hope she'd play along and not blow their cover. There were few reasons two people would be found out here in the middle of nowhere, and in the heat of the moment, only one came to mind. Wrapping his arms around Katie, he presses his lips to hers, keeping her firmly in his grasp. A feeling washes over him that he tries to ignore. Getting caught in this position might be the only way out of this, whether either of them liked it or not.


Phil grabs several bottles of water from the counter by the gas station register, along with a pack of gum. He'd made a quick run in the middle of setting up for the concert, to grab a few things they'd forgotten. Paying for the items, his eye catches a name on the nearby rack. What's Up? magazine showed off its list of articles on the front page. What was that? Phil squints. Kyle Mitts? What on earth...

He grabs the magazine to look at it more closely.

"Buying or gawking?"

Phil looks back up at the man behind the counter. "Uh... buying." Walking back out to his truck with a bag in one hand, his other flips open the magazine that he'd never paid attention to before. There was an article about Kyle? How? Why? Did he know it? Apparently... looked like he'd been interviewed. Who was Alice Whitt? Why hadn't Kyle said anything?


Kyle spins around, hearing Alice's voice. He swallows a mouthful of the Mountain Dew, a grin surfacing. "Well, if it's isn't the Whitty woman, come to join the chaos. Welcome."

Jen lifts her eyebrows. Though smiling, she wasn't sure who this woman was. "Yes, well... desperate times call for desperate measures." She laughs. "And any time with Kyle can make for desperate measures."

"But you love me, don't you?" Kyle teases. Moving to Alice, he slings an arm around her shoulder and drags her closer to the group. "Hey, y'all, this is Alice. Treat her nice 'cause she's a journalist and we want her saying good things." He stops and turns to look at her. "Come to think of it, treat her nice just because she's my friend, and that's a good enough reason right there."

Though still somewhat confused, Mike steps forward, extending his hand. "Hi, Alice. Glad to meet you."

Jen makes it over with her braces and crutches. "Yes, nice to meet you too. Have you known Kyle long?" She couldn't help her curiosity. She usually knew all of Kyle's friends.

"Long enough to write this." Phil comes in from the side, holding up the magazine. He wasn't upset, just confused, and maybe a little put out that they hadn't known about the article. He looks to his brother. "She the one who wrote it?"

"Wrote what?"

"Don't give me that." Phil hands the article to Kyle.

Kyle takes another swig of pop and lets his arm slide off of Alice so he can take the magazine and look at it. "Well, whadya know..." He elbows Alice as he scans the article. "She did talk about us."

"Thanks for letting us know," Phil comments dryly.

"Hey, sorry... didn't think it was that big of a deal." Kyle shrugs and sets the magazine down, taking note of where it was so he could come back to it later. He wanted to read it all the way through when he had time.

Phil roll his eyes and sighs. There was no point in fighting. Not tonight... this show would be hard enough. Instead, he turns to Alice. "Hi, you must be Alice."

Sugar

Looking back up at Ryder as he whipes sweat from her face Katie shakes her head. She felt foolish still but now Ryder was trying to make her feel better how could she not let him know she wasnt mad.

"Enemies ha, you'd have to do something pretty bad for that."

Katie shakes her head again giving a small laugh.

"I am sure you will be able to see us in action sooner or later, and as for Carson dont let him get to ya eh? He's a big softly unless you mess with his friends."

Giving Ryder a once over she shakes her head as she starts forward again.

"I think the the croc should be more scaired of you than you it."

Opening the back door Alice hopes she was going in the right back door. Making her way around things Alice follows the vocies.

Coming through another door Alice just smiles as she finally sees Kyle with the rest of the band. Just standing there for a moment Alice says nothing as she watches and than drawing close as Jen throws him the MD she chuckles.

"Ya know I was told its a bad thing to give this guy here sugars and I saw it first hand let me tell you."

Alice cant help the grin the cross her face.

Croc

Ryder lifts his eyebrows. He hadn’t known about anything like this, and hadn’t been prepared for this kind of an answer. It sounded unbelievable. A form of telepathy? And being able to manipulate things? He didn’t quite understand. It sounded crazy.

But Katie’s tone proved otherwise. Ryder had known her for barely twenty-four hours, and one thing he knew for certain – she wouldn’t lie. And if that were true, then what she said now had to be the truth. He believed her.

Seeing her start to walk away, Ryder knew for certain he’d made her feel foolish. Though he wouldn’t have changed his opinion, he knew he could have handled things differently. This whole mission had disrupted his mood, and he needed to be more careful. It hadn’t been just Carson that had set him off – spying on the Agency building had made him think of Brian again too. And what he thought of Katie had just compounded the whole thing, irritating the tar out of him.

Rolling his eyes, Ryder steps forward, putting a hand on Katie’s shoulder to stop her. “So now you just walk away, is that it?”

He forces her to turn around to face him again. “I thought you had more guts than that.” He sighs and reaches out to wipe a stream of sweat off the side of Katie’s face. “I’d like to see you and Jason in action if what you say is true. But I can’t, if we’re gonna be enemies. So… how about a truce… third time’s the charm, right?”

Ryder, gives her a wary grin. “If I get taken down by a croc at the river, I need somebody to tell the guys I’m gone.”


Kyle sets a tote down by the stage and wanders back out to the pickup to grab some more equipment. Axel was there early to help out, but things just seemed to be dragging. His mood was off, and he didn't feel like performing at all. But he didn't have much of a choice.

Jen sits on the sidelines, having already spent too much energy. She throws a bottle of Mountain Dew at her brother. Kyle almost misses, but catches it, giving her a look of question. "You usually don't let me have sugar," he manages to tease.

Jen shrugs. "Thought you looked like you needed a pick-me-up."

Kyle takes a swig of the pop. Maybe he did. But this time, he didn't think the sugar would do the trick.

Reason

Katie shakes her head that was one thing about words they could never be taking back no matter how foolish they sounded now.

Turning away Katie almost felt like a kid that had been scolded and wants to now just crawl away. A feeling it had been so long since she felt. Not turning back around Katie states.

"I have a unique ability with Jason. We dont tell many people about it for many reasons. We can talk to each other without even being next to one another, and when one is in danger, or hurt the other one knows it. I can always tell when he is near and he can with me too though its a little differnt for him. It comes in handy when going on missons like this. Put us together on a team and well....we just are pretty good togther. Along with being able to manipulate things so we can get into doors, past guards and such of that nature. Thats why I am here."

Staring back the way the came Katie figured it was best to rejoin the other. She mad a fool of herself and she new it. There was no point in standing around any longer.

That's all

“All I wanted to know was why Reese chose you for this mission, and most of what you said didn’t even apply.” Ryder shakes his head. “I don’t need to know you have a photographic memory, or that you have enough stubbornness to fire a gun when you’re hurt.”

He pauses, searching her face. He could tell he’d hurt her feelings, and he lowers his tone. “I needed to know that you were sent because you’d done the most research about this operation. Or because you had the most skill when it came to getting in under security. Or because you knew exactly what it was you guys are looking for. That’s all I wanted to know.”

Sighing, Ryder takes a deep breath, calming himself. “Look, I’m sorry, okay? I just… I’ve seen too many people like you, Katie. People who are so talented that they don’t even realize they don’t need to prove it all the time. I don’t give a rat’s patooty that you can fire a gun at all, let alone with a broken arm. I care that you’re focused on success in the mission – not your own abilities. I care that you’re focused on what the team as a whole can accomplish – not what you yourself can accomplish in the team.”

He pauses, looking into Katie’s eyes. His tone grows even softer. “And I know that that’s what’s in your heart. So quit trying to tell me what you’re good at.”

Ryder shrugs lamely. “Carson set me off, and I shouldn’t have let him. For that, I’m sorry.”

Ferm

Katie own eyes fill with a blase as the emotions pool behind them. Ryder's words hurt more than maybe she'd like to addmit.

"I'm NOT trying to show off at all. I'd like to know how I am? I said I wanted to come with you because I didnt want you to go alone because that is what a team is about and just because I am not with the other does not mean they have no contact with me. I was trying to be nice you Ryder because thats the kind of person I am. Compassion, friendship, loyalty thats who I am."

Katie shakes her head. This felt like a brick wall all she wanted to do was to go with Ryder because she did want him going alone, a team sticks together. Enimy taritories no matter how many times you have gone over them can always still be dangerus. Not alowing herself to second guess Katie stood ferm.

Nervous

Ryder’s blue eyes turn to steel against Katie’s words. He opens his mouth to rebuke her accusation of him not wanting to be outdone by a woman, but suddenly he whirls around, knife drawn, staring into the brush. The hair on the back of his neck stood on end. He’d felt like someone had been watching him. But just as quickly, the feeling vanished.

Turning back around, he resheaths his knife. “All you’re doing is making me paranoid about a route that I know like the back of my hand.”

He takes a step closer to her. “I don’t survive because I’m neutral,” he counters. “I survive because I either stand up for what I believe, or I walk away. Last night I saw compassion in your eyes. Today I see a hothead waiting for the chance to show off. So now who’s different?”

Deal

For a moment Katie is almost stunned by Ryder's accusation.

"Well seeing as I came along before Carson I think it was my own talent that got me where I am. Carson likes me as much as he likes the next person and he has nothing to do with why I am here. We all stick our necks out for our team mates and thats why I am here. Because I had a bad feeling and I wanted you make sure YOU my team mate would be ok and not alone. Its in my blood to keep peope safe no matter the cost."

Keeping in step with Ryder Katie dosnt fall behind or slow down.

"As for getting back safly I am sure they could get us back just as well as I could or you could. I dont know what your problem is when someone is trying to be nice to you and look out for you and you gotta do it on you own. So I am a woman big whoop. Or is that the thing is it maybe I would be right and you where own done by a woman that makes you act this way?"

Katie can't help the grin that was on her face and just for a moment she lets a bit of her emotions point them self at Ryder to make him feel only a tad bit uncomfortable but not enough to worry Jason. Than shutting them off again quickly.

"Just accept that I am here with you and deal with it. Last time you seemed to like me now you seem to hate me, just stay nutreal or something and deal with it."

Suggestion

“You are full of it,” Ryder retorts. He makes several more steps back down towards the trail, then stops to turn around again. “My guess is, that you’re good enough, that being an agent is easy for you. Reese sent you because you’re one of the best, but you haven’t even been with TJY all that long, which proves you must be a natural at something.”

He shakes his head. “Last I checked though, tolerance for pain and threats to hit a teammate weren’t enough to make the cut though. So either a lot has changed, or you got here because you’re arrogant enough to slip in through the back door. Or maybe it’s because Carson likes you so much.”

Biting his tongue, Ryder stops, his eyes ablaze. “If I were you, I’d turn right back around and go back to your team. Unless the only reason you’re following me is because you don’t think your blokes are smart enough to get you back safely the way we came.”

Wake

No problem. I'll yell if I need help.

Rolling her eyes Katie jogs a little to catch up with Ryder. All of a suddon he was the one that sounded cocky.

"Yeah well if dosnt matter how many times you have gone over ground danger can still lerk. Dont underestimate me Ryder."

Feeling herself becoming just a tiny bit adgatated Katie trys to keep her cool. Ryder didnt know about her ability and there was no need to go and get him all worked up and not know why.

"Ok smarty pants I dont have a broken arm anymore, and last time I checked I have some pretty good strangth in it so unless you want a nice wack to the back of the head cool it and you said I was full of myself."

Hardly

Scott nods bravely. "Okay... I'll have Rick bring me tomorrow." Hesitating, he heads to Hope's desk, picking up his camera where the images had been locked inside.

Thinking a moment, he quietly heads to the door, ending the session for the day. He was exhausted... all he wanted to do now was sleep.


Carson rolls his eyes at Katie. "Yeah, just don't get yourself into any trouble, alright?"

Jason smirks at her.
Yeah, yeah... what he said. I doubt you'll have any trouble. All the action is down around the building, not behind us. But whatever. Holler if you see something.

Ryder stops his his tracks to spin around. "Bad feeling?" He forces a laugh and sets a hand on his hip. "Personally, I think you need to stick with your team. I've been walking this route for months. I hardly think I need a sheila like you along for a bodyguard. Unless I need someone with a broken arm to use a shotgun."

In touch

Slowly getting to her feet Katie quietly movies still not liking the feeling she was getting. Whispers she lets other other two know.

"I'm going with him, I have a bad feeling and I dont like it. Weather he is one of us or not he is still a TJY member and if anything happend I would feel horrbale for not trusting my instinaacts. Dont worry I might not be next to you but I will still have contact with you."

Katie taps to her head and winks at Jason before going back down the trail after Ryder.

"Wait up...I am coming to. I dont want you going alone, I just have a bad feeling."

Hope gives a nod to Scott and smiles.

"Tomarrow about noon, hows that sound?"

She was glad Scott had made this decition. It was just another step in the big picture.

Blame

Ryder’s eyes narrow slightly, and he keeps his voice down, though it’s strained. “Look, nobody scares me away. But I know when I’m not wanted or needed. As for blowing our cover, if you think I’m that stupid, then I probably shouldn’t be out here at all.”

His eyes stare into Katie’s for a long moment. The teasing from last night wanted to come out again, but it was held back.

“I’ll go check the trail below. You three take your time.” Sliding back out of sight from below the cliff, he gets to his feet, slinging his backpack over his shoulder and aiming back down the trail.

Carson grunts his disapproval, but doesn’t stop him. He blamed himself. He’d been stupid. He shouldn’t have said what he had. But now he had to concentrate on the mission, not Ryder.


Scott gives Hope another small nod. “Alright… but… no… don’t give me a week.” He looks back up at her again. “I’ll only talk myself out of it. I’ll… I’ll go because I want to… because… I know I need to. Just… can we do it maybe like tomorrow?”

Little bit

Katie rolls her eyes and looks to Jason with a smile.

I think those two are worse than us women.

Turning back to scout everything once again Katie trys to consintrate as the other two continue to go back and forth. Feeling Ryder swat her leg and thinking best of him going back alone Katie turns to look over her shoulder at him.

"Do you really think its a good idea to go back by yourself because I dont. So come back over here and sit down before YOU blow our cover. Unless this killer over here really did scair you away than you can SIT there."

Katie wasnt sure why but the thought of Ryder going back to the cabin alone made her feel uneasy and she just did not like the feeling at all. Highting her own sences just a little Katie trys to keep more alart scaning the area around them and keeping on high alart.

Hope smiles. She did want what was best for Scott and she wanted to help him try to be able to function again as a human for his own sake.

"Its your choise Scott and I want you to go because you want to go. So take all week to think about it and decied. We will only be out for how ever long you want to be out. Its all up to you, we do it on your tearms."

Hope ment that. She wanted to do this for Scott, and letting him make the desitions himself showing him he did still have his own free will.

If you want

Ryder squints his eyes just a little, a grin turning up the corner of his mouth. “Cocky little sheila, aren’t we now?”

Carson gives him a sidelong glance. “You think pride in abilities is cocky? You did ask her.”

“I expected more of what she’d contribute to this mission. Not her tolerance of pain or ability to remember.”

“What she’s good at really isn’t your concern,” Carson retorts. “You’re here to help us get in. Period. Remember?”

“Oy, settle down, mate.” Ryder props himself up on his elbows, taking a bit more of a defensive stance. “You want me out of this, just say so. Looks like you got everything under control. I’ll just go back to the hut and sit if that’s what you like.”

Carson rolls his eyes. “We need all the help we can get. But you should just trust Reese for sending the right team and leave it at that.”

Ryder sighs and settles back down on his stomach to watch the Agency building. “If I’da known a bloke would get into so much trouble just for opening his mouth, I’da shut up a long time ago. It’s about time I left this job for good.”

Jason shakes his head, looking through the binoculars.
I suppose I could ask if all Aussies argue like this, but I doubt it would do too much good at this point.

Carson smirks at Ryder. “Maybe all you should do is think before opening your mouth.”

“Maybe I should just leave you lot to yourselves then ay?” Ryder sits up to rock back on his heels, and gives Katie’s leg a swat. “If you’re all that, then try to keep this Aussie in line, will you? He’s liable to blow this cover if he keeps talking like that.” Though making a joke of it, it’s obvious in Ryder’s eyes that he’s put out, and feeling it would be best if he just went back to the cabin and let the other three scout by themselves. He turns to leave.


Scott takes the tissues from Hope and blows his nose, looking down as he feels like a total idiot for such a display, even if he couldn't help it. The tears sting his blind eye and he winces, squinting it shut until the painful sensation passes.

Leaning back against the window, he takes a deep breath, trying to bring himself out of his emotional state. He gives a little nod. He knew he'd made progress. It was hard admitting that he really needed all this help to begin with, but he couldn't deny it... if he hadn't been getting this kind of help, he'd still be stuck with Rick watching him like a hawk, not to mention he'd still be scared of his own shadow.

Swallowing hard, he finally looks at Hope again. "I... I don't know. Every time I'm out, I just... I freeze up." His eyes go down again. "But... I'll go... if you want me to."


Axel tries to keep himself busy, but it's hard. He didn't know what was going to happen now. He didn't know what to do... but he had to prepare for the worst - and that was losing his job completely, as well as losing his place to live. It was a depressing thought, but one he'd been prepared for for a long time. But he had to press on. He could find another job. He could find another place to live.

Sighing, he gets up from his chair. He could go hang out with Phil and Mike before the concert and help them load up. He knew they wouldn't object to his presence. He could just say he got off work early.


"Who else knows him as well as I do?" Tears fill Taylor's eyes, heat coming to her face. She knew this was pointless, and she felt embarrassed over the whole thing. But it still hurt. She paces her apartment. "Who else knows that his favorite flavor of ice cream is plain vanilla? Or that he doesn't like the color olive green? Or that he thinks the best temperature is seventy-three degrees? Or that..."

"Taylor..." Joel interrupts her and stops her from pacing by putting his hands on her shoulders. He looks her in the eye, gentle but firm. "You're gonna have to let this go."

Taylor's lower lip trembles. "Did you know that he wears dogtags that have his first and middle names on them?"

Joel shakes his head. "I guess I've seen a chain around his neck but I didn't know what it was, no. But..."

"See? He's been with us for over a year and I've learned all the little things, and I've worked so hard just to get close to him, just so he'd give me second glance. And he still won't even ride in my car with me!"

Joel sighs and makes her sit on the couch with him. "He doesn't go anywhere alone with any woman, you know that."

"He does with Jess," Taylor mumbles.

Joel rolls his eyes. "Jealous?"

Taylor looks down and sniffs. "Maybe. He hardly knows her... how come he'll let her into his zone and not me?"

"I don't know. But if Axel doesn't have feeling for you, there's nothing you can do about it. You've done all you can, you let him know how you feel, and if he doesn't want that, then you're just gonna have to let it go."

"But..." Taylor wipes her eyes with the back of her hand, feeling foolish. "I've made an idiot out of myself. How can I even face him?"

A small grin surfaces on Joel's face. Taylor had told him all about what had happened after he'd stopped by to try and get her to come to Cryptic's next practice. "You think he's the type to let that bother him? Knowing Axel, he's probably thinking he's ruined his friendship with you, and probably feels horrible about it."

Taylor looks up at her cousin. "He left a message on my answering machine to apologize. You think he really feels that badly?"

"I'd bet money on it. You're his friend, Tay. He may not care for you the way you want him to, but he does consider you a friend, and a good one at that. Can you live with just being friends with him?"

Taylor sighs and finally gives a little nod. "I think I can." Her eyes plead with Joel. "But don't tell any of the other guys okay? I feel foolish enough the way it is."

Joel chuckles. "I won't tell them. They're worried about you though. Come to our next practice, okay?"

"Alright."

Kunch

Staying close behind Ryder Kaite glances back every now and than making sure Jason and Carson wernt far behind. Moving over the roots and bushes Katie trys to be as quiet as she can be.

Walking for a long way Katie though they might never stop but finally seeing Ryde go down to his belly Katie follows along inch by inch.

Looking over the edge of the cleft Katie takes everything in down below letting off a soft whistle.

"Wow, they really do have the operation going on down there dont they."

Looking over the faces though thye were small Katie could make them out and takes them in. Hearing Ryder's question Katie is silent for a moment before turning finally turning to Ryder a small grin forms on her face.

"Because I am the best."

Giving a shake of her head and a small laugh the glint in Katie's eyes never leaves.

"I have a pretty good memorie. I can take evertything and than at a laster date bring it out again kind of like a camra. Once I see something or someone I never forget, among other talents I shair with people. Not only that, I have been told am good at my job. I can shoot pretty good no matter how much it hurts."

A small smile forms on her face at a memorie.

"I once shot a shot gun with ease while I had a broken arm."

Looking back down at the tarrain below Katie falls silent again just thinking and taking things in.

"So how are we gonna do this?"

Continuing to listen once again Hope follows Scott back into her office. Leaning aganst her desk Hope takes in all the scars that marked. Feeling the strings on her heart being pulled Hope cant say nothing but just listen.

Pusing off the desk she goes around her one of her shelfs and grabs some tissues bringing them to Scott. Finally as he is done Hope is silent for a moment thinking about Scott last statment.

"Oh Scott, I can't tell you if its completely over or not. I am here to help you get to the end resalt but that ending it left up to you."

Walkng close to where was once again Hope lays a gentil hand on his arm.

"But what I can tell you Scott, is you made a BIG BIG step today Scott and your on the right path. Your end is coming soon Scott and before you know it, your not going to need me anymore."

For a moment at the statment Hope feels a bit of meloncoly, a sadness and never seeing Scott again.

"Your doing so good Scott compaired to when you first came here. Yours making great progress. Next time we meet Scott how about doing lunch my treat?"

Continuing

Scott tries to calm himself down, embarrassed for getting sick like this. But he doesn't have the strength to push Hope away. The only thing he could do was accept her comfort and lean into it for support.

His stomach finally settling down, he sits back against the wall for a moment, his face pale, his palms clammy. He takes several deep breaths, his hands starting to shake from the stress. Not responding to Hope right away, he manages to get to his feet again, though a bit wobbly. Going to the sink, he splashes some cold water on his face, trying to pull himself together again.

There were no numbers to describe the way he felt, or what had happened. There was no logical route to get around the pain. There was no mathematical answer to this emotional equation. But speaking the truth now... allowing the memories to be exposed through his words... it brought them into the open - the only place where they could be conquered.

Exhausted, he leans on the sink, lifting his face to see into the mirror. He saw himself, thin, pale, and fading to nothingness. Shifting his gaze, he sees Hope behind him, still there, available and waiting. She said he could be done. She said he didn't have to say anymore. But the valve to open up the stream of emotions and words had been loosened, and the flow did not want to stop.

"They took everything," he almost whispered. All his pride, all his confidence and self-worth had been destroyed. He didn't know how to beat this thing. He didn't know how to overcome the feeling of helplessness... of weakness. Fighting never did any good. He wasn't strong enough.. resistance only meant pain and foolishness.

"Fighting... didn't do any good. I was too weak." His eyes glaze over with a look that signals he's lost in the images of the past. "So I... I gave up." A stray tear runs from his eye, but he doesn't blink.

Pushing off the sink, he wanders past Hope, back to the hallway, and back into the office. His feet wanted to take him the rest of the way, to the exit and outside. But his heart felt pulled somehow to stay... to stay and finally finish what he'd started.

He paces for a moment, feeling as though he were almost stuck in a dream. But with Hope with him again, he forces the words to surface once more, picking up where he'd left off.

"They beat her so bad. And I could have stopped it." His voice starts to waver. "I could have given them what they... what they wanted. But... I didn't. I watched her... slowly die. Blood was everywhere... The concrete stained... the smell didn't go away."

His lower lip begins to tremble, his fists growing so tight at his sides that his knuckles turn white. "Every day I sat in that same cell, living it over and over."

Turning around, he looks at Hope. "His favorite weapon was a chain." He shows how large the links were with his fingers. "Across my back... across my legs. Not hard enough to break anything... just hard enough to tear things up, bruise and bleed."

Scott rolls up his sleeve to reveal a scar that went from his wrist, clear up to his elbow. His hoodie had always hidden it. "It took him three hours to make that. He went clear to the bone. But he made sure I didn't bleed to death." A source of anger is revealed, flashing briefly in Scott's gaze. "No... they wouldn't let me die."

Though more tears come, the words won't stop now. "They used something like a cattle prod when I was at the computer. Any time I refused, or made a mistake, I'd get a shock that would almost knock me out. But when they were really mad, I'd get the shot."

Pulling up his other sleeve, Scott reveals all that's left of the marks left around his veins where he'd been injected time and time again. "I don't know what was in it. But you haven't felt pain until you've been given one of those shots. They only kept those for the very end when they'd given up because afterward, I was in too much pain to function. Half the time I'd pass out, just to wake up in the cell again... cold... tired."

Scott's mind reals with the images that won't stop. They were light a freight train without any brakes. "One time they did get too frustrated, so one of the guys tried to kill me." Lifting up his shirt shows a wide scar in the middle of his rib cage. "But they wouldn't let me die. They just patched me up to see how much longer I could last. All I wanted to do was die, but they wouldn't let me... I finally got sick."

He swallows hard, the fog starting to settle over his mind again. "I don't know how long I was sick... or what happened... I was too weak to remember. I just wanted it to end. I prayed I would die. I'd been told my family and friends had all been murdered... I didn't want to be rescued to face that anyway... I just wanted to sleep and never wake up."

Suddenly, he was at the window again, not even remembering walking across the room. He places a palm on the glass as he often did, feeling the smooth coolness. For some reason, that feeling was a comforting one. There was no harshness... the glass hid nothing, yet was a protective barrier... It absorbed the sun's warmth, yet remained refreshingly cool.

"It's over, isn't it?" Scott slowly turns around to face Hope again, his good eye piercing her own. "The war... the battle... it's over... I don't have to worry about it anymore... do I?"

The question was one of partial knowledge that bringing his fears to light was a form of conquering them... but it was also one of partial pleading that it really would be over soon so he could live again.


Ryder grins as Katie dons the t-shirt. “There we go. Alright then. Off we go.”

Carson motions for Jason and Katie to follow after Ryder, while he takes up the rear. Heading off the porch, the scenery is a gray darkness, insects still singing their lullabies until the sun appears.

Ryder leads the way without a flashlight, his lightweight backpack carrying only binoculars and his canteen. The long knife and gun at his hip signaled he was ready for anything – not expecting trouble, but not to be surprised.

He steps over tree roots and bramble, every so often looking over his shoulder to make sure everyone was behind him. They kept up just as he suspected they would. His own attitude was a little different this morning. He had a mission to carry out, and wasn’t letting his personal feelings get in the way today. While perhaps Katie’s words to him the night before had given him a glimmer of hope, he’d really surrendered to the fact that yet again, there was nothing that could be done about his brother. And as such, he would simply carry out his responsibility to help this team recover the antidote they were seeking.

Jason keeps up behind Katie, his long legs assisting in getting through the brush.

Ryder’s quiet this morning. Guess he’s in a sticky position. Only on-call half the time, but all the time worrying about his brother. Guess maybe if I hadn’t known Brian was on the Agency’s side, I would have gone in too, to save him. Just reminded me on Scott, ya know?

Carson moves stealthily at the rear, keeping his eyes out for anything. It had been a long time since he’d walked this terrain. Yet sometimes it felt as though it had just been yesterday. Looking ahead, he keeps an eye on Katie, though he knew Jason would be doing just that. Though Carson would probably trust Katie more than anybody else on this mission, an alternative motive was to return her safely home. He was in charge of this, and having her hurt or worse was simply not an option.

As the group treks on, the sun begins to peek above the horizon. Through the dense undergrowth, small rays penetrated to light the way with starry brilliance against the persisting darkness.

A small break is taken, but only for a few minutes before Ryder presses the team on. Miles are left behind. A river is encountered, and Ryder scouts out the best point to wade across, his knife drawn, wary of lurking crocodiles. Safely on the other shore, he leads the group further, to finally climb the summit where the secluded vantage point rested.

Ryder leads the way to the edge of the cliff, motioning for everyone to drop to their stomachs to avoid being spotted. Crawling to the edge, he points to the clearing below where a large building stood several stories high. It was almost surreal, as if the scene had been manually generated. The bush was no place to find a business building. But it was there, looking as though it had been transplanted from the city.

“There she is,” Ryder points out. “And she’s busy today, just as I thought she would be.”

“It’s them alright,” Carson confirms. He knew this place. He’d been here. He’d worked here. Some things had changed, but it was memories that guided his thoughts on how to get in, and where things were located.

Men in casual dress were coming and going. It was only a dirt road that led to the building, but it looked used enough to almost be a highway. There were several trucks, and several cars that looked top dollar.

“What’s there angle?” Carson questions. “They used to claim they were an international food shipping warehouse.”

Ryder shakes his head. “Naw. Now they’re listed as a freelance hub. In other words, they say they rent out offices and the like to any businessmen. For example, you could be a lawyer, and set up office here. You could be a telemarketer and rent a block of offices. Funny thing… they’re always full-up.”

Carson rolls his eyes. “I wonder why.”

Jason furrows his brow. “You mean they claim to be that, but nobody can ever get in?”

“That’s right, mate.” Ryder hands him the binoculars. “They set up signs, they have business cards printed, they even have phone lines set up – but it’s all a ruse. If I called a lawyer there, I’d probably just get a spiel about them not taking on any more clients at this time. Sounds official and the feds stay away.”

Carson lies on his stomach, resting his chin on his hands to watch the activity below. “So what’s with all the activity all of a sudden?”

“Don’t know. I haven’t been able to get word from my source in over a week. But the place has been crawling. I don’t know if they’re just getting a new team in so they’re playing switcheroo on everything, or if they’re setting up new fake businesses or what. But the feds still aren’t involved. It’s all just the Agency as far as I can tell.”

“You think it’s something special? Like something going down?”

“No… I really don’t think so. I think it’s just routine stuff. But it’s been too busy to try to get in. There’s just no way to go unseen.” Ryder pauses, letting the group just watch for a while. He turns his head to eye Katie. “So where do you fit in all this? Why did Reese send you?”

People to Save

Only hearing a bit of Scott's story Hope's heart acks for this man she had gotten to know. In her line of work she saw many things and hurd alot, but never had she incountered something that ran so deep before.

Hope didnt know who the Agency was, or how they worked but from she was told, or had hurd she new this was there meathod. To inflict pain, and to burn into the mind of there victomes these images, this fear. This is what the Agency wanted so if there victoms ever got away they wouldnt live long, or would be to scaired to talk.

Giving Scott a few moments by himself Hope finally enters the bathroom with him. Squating down next to him she lays a gentil hand on his back and rubs just a little.

"Hey you did good, and you dont have to tell me any more now ok?!"

Continuing to sit there with Scott for a little bit Hope is just silent, letting the quiet rain and fill the air but all the time she keeps her hand on Scott's back to let him know he was not alone. Finally though she speaks again though the words were few.

"Are you going to be ok?"

Katie looks at Ryder and quirks a grin taking the shirt from him.

"Maybe we should pain are face too, they are white as well."

Trying to find humor in her own joke Katie knows it failed and rolls her eyes at herself. Hearing Jason's comment she gives him a quick soft jab to the ribs.

"Oh yeah lucky me."

Shaking her head Katie puts the shirt on over the tank top and tucks it. Checking her gun one more time Katie gives a swift nod.

"So are we gonna stand here all day or what? We have people to save you know."

Giving a smile to Ryder and than the others Katie makes her way out the door breathing in the fresh air.

"6:30...I can handle that. Its good to get an early glimps of a rainbow anywas."

Jess can't help the smile that creeped across her face, after everything strange that had been going on seeing people she liked to be around and felt comfortable would be nice.

"Getting out of the house is gonna be good for me tonight. I'll see ya about that time. Thanks."

Hanging up the phone Jess goes back into the kitchen to put her items away. She couldnt help but be a little bit excited about going to the consert tonight.

Emotions

All three guys are also ready and waiting in the kitchen when Katie joins them. Ryder quirks an eyebrow and gives her a once over. "Daughter of Rambo comes to Australia. Look out world."

Carson chuckles, unable to help but toss Katie a wink.

Ryder ambles past Katie, then comes back with a khaki t-shirt. "Sorry, mate, but we're not gonna surrender yet. Waving a white flag around won't do any of us any good."

Jason had already been warned that the lookout point was out in the open, so he and Carson and Ryder were already in green or khaki colored clothes. He grins at Katie. "Nothing like wearing another guy's shirt," he teases.


"Axel?"

Axel turns around in the shop office to see Darrel. "Yeah?"

Darrel's face showed tension. "Listen, um... I don't know how to say this..."

A chill runs down Axel's spine. "What is it?"

"I just got a call back about some employment paperwork we were filing. I'm sorry, but... I didn't know about your past conviction."

Axel sets down the papers on the desk, his jaw tightening. "What are you saying?"

Darrel clears his throat awkwardly. "We have women here all the time, Axel. And... if any of them knew about this... we'd be running on a fine line. I can't afford to lose business."

Axel purses his lips and gives a defeated nod. "I understand. I'll go pack my things."

"Look, don't do anything yet." Darrel stops him from leaving. "I'll have to talk to some others. You're a good mechanic and I don't want to lose you if I don't have to. Just... I'll have to request a mandatory leave until a decision is made. If you decide to quit during that time, it's up to you. I can't guarantee what the outcome will be."

"Yeah." Axel forces a short laugh. He knew how this worked. "Sure. You talk to the important guys, figure out if keeping me is worth the losses." He takes a deep breath to let it out slowly. "I'll think about it."

"I'm sorry, I just..."

"No," Axel cuts him off. "It's not your fault. Just, um... call me, I guess."

"Okay." Darrel watches, helpless as Axel walks away.

Axel leaves the shop, not bothering to tell the other guys, and trudges slowly up the steps to his apartment. Getting inside, he eases down in his chair to put his face in his hands. He'd known this might happen. But why did it have to be here and now?

Finally finding himself again, he fishes his cell phone out of his pocket, checking to see who had called while he'd been talking to Darrel. Listening to the message, he hesitates calling Jess back. No... he needed to. He needed to just move on as if everything were fine. Even if he lost his job, his friends needn't know why. It was better that way. As long as he didn't put up a fight or make a stink about the whole thing, no one else would ever find out the details.

Dialing, he closes his eyes and sinks back in the chair, forcing his voice to be as light as always. "Hey, Stormy. Yeah, I'm going tonight." He grins, even tho Jess can't see him. "You can always tag along, you know that. I'm planning to get there about six-thirty to see if JetStream needs a hand before it starts. Feel free to come on down then too."


Scott keeps his eyes out the window, hearing Hope's words, but afraid to digest them. He felt sick just considering the thought of talking about what had happened. But a part of him longed to rid himself of those emotions and blocked memories. Part of him longed to be free of the prison they were holding them in.

Hope didn't usually prompt him like this. It was uncomfortable. But he knew she knew what she was doing, and if she didn't think he could do it, she wouldn't have asked him to.

Finally he turns to look at her, and he just studies her eyes for a long moment. She was like a sponge, there to absorb anything, no matter how disturbing or emotionally shocking it was. She was willing to help unburden those who came to see her and try to help them live again.

Scott swallows hard and moves away from the window, putting his hands back in his hoodie pockets. He goes and sits down in one of the chairs, sliding down to slouch and just think. In less than a minute though, he's back on his feet again, pacing. He takes his glasses off and rubs his blind eye, not realizing it had become a nervous tell. Sitting back down, he fidgets with his glasses in his hand, not caring if things were a bit blurry. He stands again and returns to the window. Sighing, he just takes several minutes to ponder some more, the tension evident as his jaw muscles tightened and relaxed over and over.

Returning to the chair again, he picks up his camera and fidgets with it until he finds the setting he wants. Seeing Hope is back at her desk, he lifts the camera to his eye and brings her face into focus. "They wanted information."

Click

"They thought if they tortured me enough that they'd find out the master passwords into TJY's system."

The camera turns to take an upright shot. Click

"They took me into the chamber and chained me to a chair."

Click

Scott's voice wavers as a bead of sweat trickles down the side of his face. But he continues to look at Hope through the camera. "I passed out after the first beating."

Click

"When I woke up, I'd been patched up. Their physicians had looked at my eye, and gotten me cleaned up from the explosion and the first torture session."

Click

"They wanted to win my trust. Wanted to make me feel good. They promised they would let me go if I just gave them what they wanted." He swallows hard, lowering the camera to see the pictures he'd just taken. "I didn't talk."

He raises the camera again. "Mornings I spent in the torture chamber. Afternoons I spent behind a desk in front of a computer with two men behind me, beating me until I couldn't think anymore. Nights were spent in the dungeon."

Click

A tear runs down Scott's face. "They fed me rice, water, and once in a while some bread."

Click

"When I wouldn't budge, they showed me what happened to people who didn't talk." Scott's finger hovered on the button, but he lets go, lowering the camera again, his emotion-filled eyes remaining downcast. "I never knew her name. One of the thugs held me... while the other one started beating her. I... I screamed... I fought.. but I couldn't...."

All of a sudden, Scott's face pales and he sets the camera down on Hope's desk. "I'm sorry," he whispers. Turning quickly, it's a fast aim to the door and out. But it's not the exit he's headed for this time - it's the bathroom. Barely making it, he throws up, the emotional strain too much for his body to handle.