acid

Nate stands at the desk his eyes bloodshot from lack of sleep. Seeing everything on the computer and seeing Katie just there moving in and out of cautiousness. What did the Agency want with all of this, why were they doing this.

Turning his head as Jason comes out Phinox stands. He new he didnt get alone with him and he wasnt sure what Jason would do. Holding his hands up Phinox looks to Jason.

"I know you dont trust me and thats fine, but lets find Katie and than after words you can do whatever you want with me."

Watching Jason walk away Phinox couldnt help but feel bad for him. He didnt blame him for hating him or even trusting him for that matter. He was the enamy.

The silence was thick as everyone tention is running high. No one really trusting there company but the silence was short lived. The suddin loud Jetstream music, and Jason's voice comes over Katie's cell phone.

Phinox movies closer to the phone and glances over Carson's shoulder as a figure apears infront of the camra where Katie was.

"Thats Rod the one I talked to on the phone. He's the one running the show."

Looking to Carson, than Nate than back to the computer screen.

Nate gives a jump standing quickly. Moving to look at the camra his anger burns. Picking up the phone and answering it he is silent for a moment taking in a deep breath.

"This is Nate."

The gruff voice comes over the other end calm, cool, but a mercaless edge to it.

"Your the leader of this whole show on trying to find Katie?"

Nate's eyes move from Carson and than the camra again. Something was wrong and he didnt like it.

"Yes, what do you people want?"

The voice booms over the phone the volume turned up so the others could hear to, also as he pushes the speeker button for Jason and Reese being able to hear as well.

"We want Derek Stevenson and Jay Pent."

Nate stiffens at the request. Names he hadnt hurd come up in a while.

"No way, there is no way we could give them both to you."

"Than for every moment that goes by your friend here will get another battle wound. For every moment that you refuse she will pay and you will watch as she withers away to nothing, as she crys out in pain and it will be your fault. Sooner or later eather you break or she dies."

Setting the phone down Rod moves to a table that was to the left. Taking out a small bottle he holds it up for a moment. Picking up the phone again he questions.

"Have you even seen what happens to skin when acid hit it? Or how it smells?"

Setting the phone down again Rod moves over to Katie. Reaching out Rod holds the dropper over Katie.

As the acid hits Katie's skin by her neck and her jawbone it sizzles and smokes.

Katie's screams where loud and sharp showing just how much pain she was in. Moving naturley trying to get away from the pain she was feeling. Tears roll from her eyes and down her face. The salt from her tears hitting the acid eaten spot on her face only making it hurt more.

Looking over his shoulder Rod calls to Gage.

"Come here and hold her head to the side. Don't let her move or this could turn out far worse."

Turning back to Katie Rod drops a few more drops a little higher this time. The acid spread into half dollar size taking on no real shape.

The flesh being eaten away as the blood rolled down Katie neck was a sigh that could make anyone sick to there stomach.

Though it hurt so bad and tears rolled from Katie's eyes no plee was hurd, and no begs came from her lips.

Once finished Rod takes the bottle and puts it back in the drawer ordering Gage to let Katie go.

Picking the phone back up a wicked smile forms on his face.

"That was the first time you denyed what we wanted, for her sake I would rethink the offer."

Nate's anger boiled as his knuckles started to turn white from his fists being clenches. Wanting to say something back Nate dosent have time before the phone is hung up.

Not even skipping a beat Nate picks up the phone and dial's Sapphire's line. His voice was gruff but not with her. He was angry, he was hurting and he just saw someone cuse unbearbale harm to his good friend.

"Sapphire, take Katie's phone number and run a scan of the last call to it. Find out where the number is from satalight location, anything I want it and I want it 5 sec ago."

The pain was so great that finally she couldnt stand it any longer. Lowing her head from the pain her tears continued to come. It hurt so bad she didnt know what to think.

Phinox stomach churned as he watched and listen to what was going on before them. He new they would torcher Katie but he didnt know it was going to be this bad. Something didnt seem right though this wasnt part of the plan he remembered.

"This isnt right, Rod's gone off the deepend. Next time I talk to him I have go to see if I can set up a meeting and get him to stop this."

In need

TJY seemes quiet. The hallways are clear… work is being done at desks and in quiet offices. But tension runs high. They were still on the hunt… Still on the search. Desperation grew. All cases had been put on hold except this one. Time was running out. And the only leads were those no one knew if they could trust. But the day was starting again, desks were filling up, and decisions to move forward had to be made.


Rick heads to the second interrogation room with breakfast for Scott, juggling the small try in one hand, and keys in the other. It didn't feel right coming here to find Scott... of all people to have been put in here...

Not surprised to see Dalton nearby, he gives him a nod, then fiddles with the keys, finding the right one to unlock the door. The light was off. “Scott?” He inches inside before reaching for the light switch. Glancing to the right, the blanket and pillow that had been provided were empty. “Scott?”

He sets the breakfast down on the table, then suddenly spots the young agent in the far corner. Scott was still curled up on his side, motionless. A chill runs down Rick’s spine and he moves closer. “Scott?” he asks again. Not receiving a response, he kneels next to Scott to tilt up his face. “Good land,” he breathes. Scott's blind eye was almost swollen shut an his lip still had a steady stream of blood flowing from it. The bruises were deep. He was curled up tightly, as if trying to protect himself from any more harm. “Scott… can you hear me?”

Scott swallows hard and manages a nod without opening his eyes. He hurt all over.

“What happened? Who did this?”

Scott only shakes his head, unwilling to talk.

Rick stands quickly and goes to the open door. His face was pale. “Dalton? I need you in here on the double. You've got to help me get Scott to the infirmary.”


Carson watches every single move Phinox makes.... his eyes, his breathing, his body language. Carson knew what it was like. He knew how the agency worked and how agents were trained to react in situation like this. He knew the tell-tale signs of an agent who was lying to save their hide... and Phinox didn't have them. But that didn't mean he would trust him completely.

Slowly, Carson withdraws his handgun, putting it back in its holster. Contemplating a moment, he turns to Nate. "I need to get back to my job of watching. You're leading this group though - it's up to you what we're going to let Phinox do."

Just then, Jason comes around the corner. He stops in his tracks, his eyes widening, then immediately turning to a glare. "You." He stalks towards Phinox, ready to take out his anger on the one man he knew was a traitor.

Carson is quicker though, and steps in between, holding Jason to the side. "Let it go, Jase."

"But he..."

"I said, let it go." Carson gives him a look of warning. "He's here for Katie this time. He's going to help us."

Jason continues to glare, now confused. He turns to Phinox with a look that could kill, before responding to Carson. "Who is he really?"

"Spanish secret service just like he said, but he's been in the Agency a few years."

"And you trust him?"

"Do you trust me?"

"That's different."

"How?"

Jason relaxes enough that Carson doesn't have to hold him, bu he's still not happy. "Katie's life is on the line... and you're going to trust someone from the Agency. Oh that makes a whole lot of sense."

"We're not going to walk into a trap," Carson states flatly. "But what other leads do we have right now?"

Jason is silent. They had none. The last several hours had turned up absoultely nothing. Looking to Nate, he turns to leave. "Tell me what I'm supposed to do, once you figure it out." Spinning on his heel, he stalks back towards his office.

explanation

Turning back to the computer again Nate sinks down into the chair once more stairing at the screen and Katie bound to the poll. His heart acked.

"Oh Katie."

Still listing with one ear Nate continues to watch the screen trying to think of some kind of plan. He felt like a fish out of water that was running out of time.

"Because I am one of them Carson. I guess no matter how you look at it, I guess I have turned into one of them no matter how I tryed to tell myself it was only to servive. I betrayed myself, my country, and all the good I once new."

Phinox now new it was true, he new that what he had done was wrong. Though if given the chanse to go back he probley wouldnt change anything he new he had been wrong anyways.

"If you dont even want to trust me again thats fine Carson, but trust me now with this for Katie's sake..."

Going through everything he new about the case he told them about how the Agecny new about Katie and Jason abliltys and thats why they choose them next. It had started with Austraila when they found out, to Jason taking a formula for a cure, and now came to this.

The Agency wanted something out of this though he wasnt sure what it was Katie to had to pay the dear price. And though things would not get anymore easy he would do his best in finding out what he could.

"I don't know where they are keeping her but I do have some ideas. If you can give me a map I can show you. I'll be able to find out where she is as well because the day after tomarrow I am to report to a meeting area where the infomation I have collected. They are going to take me to where they have Katie. You can follow but a bug on me anything and find out where she is."

Phinox new they probley wouldnt go for the idea but its all he could do. He didnt know anymore but he did have alot of helpful information to offer.

"It's all I have guys and though you know think its probley a good idea, its really all we have. You have got to let me go when I need too."

Trying

Carson hates listening to the phone call. He hates hearing the other voice. He hates hearing plans to hurt Katie.

As the call ends, he works his jaw muscles, not sure what to do now. The call seemed clean... Phinox seemed to be telling the truth at least on that end of things. But how were they supposed to know that it wasn't all a setup?

"I don't like it, Phinox," he growls. "You've proven you're one of them, and that's about it."

Hearing the question of the next step, he throws Nate a withering look. "It's torture, Nate... use your imagination."

Turning back to Phinox, he releases his hand, but doesn't put his gun back. "Alright. We're not going anywhere until you tell us everything you know about this. You convince us you can actually help, we won't throw you in the holding cell. One wrong move and you get locked up - if you're really on our side and want to help, then you know getting locked up wouldn't do anybody any good."

His eyes narrow to slits. "Where are they holding her?"


While time is quickly passing at one end of TJY, at the other, it couldn't be moving slower. But who would know? Nothing can be heard through soundproof walls. No one can be seen, when movements only seem to be imagined shadows. They come and they go. Fifty-seven minutes is all it takes.

Scott lies in the corner of the interrogation room, curled up tightly on his side. Blood ran from the deep split in his lip, and the bruises on his face were quickly darkening. He moves but winces, his ribcage cracked and so sore. He would call out if he thought it would do any good, but he knew that no one could hear him.

A silent tear drips onto the floor. He lets his eyes fall shut, trying to block the pain... trying to block the anguish.

Phone call

Letting out a sigh and shaking his head Phinox looks to Nate and than Carson again.

"Alright, let me get the number from the phone."

Reaching into his jacket pocket he takes out his phone and flips it open going through the numbers. Finally coming to the one he was marked A number.

Dialing it quickly Phinox waits for what seemed like hours starting to think no one would even answer he finally hears a voice on the other end.

"Hello?"

Keeping his voice calm and cool Phinox makes no flaws in acting like anything was wrong. Moving the phone away from his ear so the others could hear the call on the other end.

"Hey Rod hows everything going?"

"Phinox? You know what I wanna hear."

"Agent three-twenty-five, reporting in twenty-one ten hours after infiltration."

"Clearance accepted. Why are you calling from a number we dont know? What are you trying to pull Agent?"

"Come on Rod give me a break you know I wouldnt have called from a number you didnt know without a good reason. Sacurity here is tight and they have officers all over the place, I couldnt exacly get away to call from my own phone so I am using one in the office that I have been working in."

The lies roll off Phinox's toung like it was nothing. He'd done it so many times before it was so easy to do it now without even blinking.

"You know if Steve new about this he wouldnt be happy."

"Steve can kiss where the sun dont shine because if he has a problem I can take this to Mindrige himself and he'll see it my way. He's not in charge of this operation anyways you are."

"Ya whatever, I dont know what you think your tough stuff you better watch it. How is everything there anyways? Everyone squirming in there seats yet?"

"Yeah you should see them. Mindrige sure did know what he was doing when he said to snatch the Katie."

"Yeah well they havnt seen anything yet. Tomarrow will be the next step. I'll call them on the girl's cell early in the morning. That way it will give us the next step in her capture."

For a moment at Rod's words Phinox cringes as a wave of regret and sadness pass in his eyes. He new what would happend next he only had wished they would of waited another day so maybe they would have another day to find Katie.

"Are you sure you want to start it tomarrow? So soon?"

"I got the ok from Mindridge to go tomarrow. They still dont know your Agency do they?"

Looking at Nate and than Carson again Phinox shakes his head though Rod couldnt see him.

"No they have no idea. They are so blinded by whats going on with Katie they cant see whats right under there noise."

"I new we could count on you for this one. Call again tomarrow when you can, from you own phone this time."

Hearing the click on the other end Phinox know Rod had hung up. Looking up at Carson he holds the phone out to him.

"There, for now she is safe from death."

Though Nate wanted to consintrate on Phinox he found it hard continuing to watch the computer screen. Turning back to Phinox again I though goes through his mind.

"What did he mean by the next step in her capture? If they so much as lay an finger on Kaite so help me..."

Phinox looks to Nate the sad look in his eye once more before it was gone. He hated the thought of what would happend, and he hated having to say it. Giving a nod to Carson he reply.

"As him he knows."

Nate looks to Carson with question.

Too afraid

Carson's eyes narrow, the pressure on Phinox's hand not letting up. His eyes glance back to Nate, then towards Reese's office. He really didn't want to involve anyone else right now. He had to keep the upper hand.

Looking back down to Phinox, he shakes his head. He would call his bluff on this one. He knew Katie's life was at stake, but if Phinox really was telling the truth, then forcing his hand might make it clear one way or the other.

"No. You use our phone. If you're really supposed to be feeding them information, then you should be able to come up with some excuse as to why you didn't use your own phone."

Carson reaches down and hits an extension number. "The line is clear of our own traces. Whoever you call should be able to see that. Now dial. Or you won't get a chance to call at all and Katie's death will be on your hands."


Scott just nods lamely and watches Dalton leave the interrogation room. Once alone, it was so quiet again... so still. He looks to the mirror to the side, knowing that beyond that was the other interrogation room, empty. But he stares at himself. Who was he? Was he really a traitor? Dalton didn't seem to think so. But if he wasn't, then why did he have Agency information? He wanted to remember so badly, while at the same time, he was too afraid to.


It's a short while later, that Hal's voice comes over the intercom. "Dalton, please report to garage bay three. Dalton... garage bay three."

Hanging up the phone, Hal goes back to the lower level garage door, still trying to get it unstuck. He'd unlocked it with the keypad numerous times, but he still couldn't get it open. He hadn't wanted to bother too many people - he knew that upstairs everyone was working hard at trying to find Katie. But Rick had suggested getting Dalton's help to try and force the door open if the mechanism had jammed.

Cell

Dalton gave a short nod. He new Scott was right and he should be continuing to help with Katie. He hated leaving Scott though. Maybe though just maybe he would leave Scott but still stay close.

"Ok, I will leave you be but I am going to be working at the desk outside the door if you need me. I'll check in, in a little bit though and bring you something else to drink."

Giving Scott a light pat on the shoulder Dalton turns and heads out of the second intaragation room. Going to there office he gathers a few of his paper work along with some other things he needs. Returning to the desk that was outside from the room that Scott was in Dalton sits. He would watch over his little buddy so if he needed anything he would be there.

Looking up into Carson's eyes Phinox can see the anger in there, and new what Carson was capable of. Though he wasnt to scaired of him even if he did blow off his hand.

Just holding the phone for a moment Phinox looks at it and than looks back to Carson.

"I cant call from this phone. The phone's arnt taped but they have a caller ID and will see its not my cell phone number. It would be safer to call from my phone."

Phinox looked up at Carson before doing anything. He'd rather not get his hand blown off.

Every second

Carson's grip on his handgun tightens, his glare piercing Phinox as he spoke. Though he let him talk, and disarm himself, Carson's stance is unchanging. At any moment, he was ready and capable of pulling the trigger and ending this right here and now. But he lets Phinox talk.

Studying Phinox's eyes, Carson takes in every word, dissecting it and trying to see whether or not he was lying. Each phrase, each flash in Phinox's dark stare... what was the truth? Who could be trusted?

For what seems like an eternity, Carson just stares at Phinox, his gun still poised. One could hear a pin drop. Finally, Carson moves. He keeps his gun aimed at Phinox, but lowers it a little, stepping forward to turn him and shove him down in a chair at an empty desk. Reaching down, he picks up the phone and hands it to him. "You call your contact," he orders icily. "And if for a split second I think you're setting us up..." He takes Phinox's free hand and puts it palm-down on the desk, jamming the barrel of his gun into the top of the hand. "...you're gonna lose your hand. Now... dial."


Scott looks at the cards, then finally looks up at Dalton. "I know you're just... just trying to make me feel better... and... and I'm grateful." He licks his dry lips. Carson hadn't really hurt him, but he was sore. "But... please... take my place trying to find that man. Having us both in here... it just takes us one step away from finding Katie."

With a sorrowful gaze, he stares into Dalton's eyes, pleading with him. He didn't know what was going on in his own mind, and he was so very confused. But even though he was scared to be alone, he knew that Katie needed to be found... and he knew that every second counted.

Plee

Dalton gives a small nod to Scott. He new that they would leave him in there, and he new Scott would be alone.

"I know its true, they will. But I am gonna stay in here just a little while longer with you. I dont have anything to do right now anyways."

Sitting back in the chair Dalton pulls some cards from his pocket and places it on the table. He wanted to try and get Scott's mind off everything but he didnt even know if he could or not.

Standing behind Carson his eyes narrow. He didnt trust Phinox now no matter what he said. Moving his hand to his own gun Nate snarles. After everything he was in no mood.

"You got some guts showing your face here again tonight, talk quick or I will let Carson shoot you."

Phinox's eyes widen a little as Carson pulls his gun on him. It was than he new they did inface know who he was.

Raising his hands in the air Phinox moved his own hand to his side arm. He was taking a chanse but he wanted to show peace. Drawing it slowly he reaches out and puts it on the desk next to them before bringing his hands up again his heart pounding.

“I do who you are Carson, and I know your not, but Please just listen to me, I can explain. I really was a secret service agent.”

Phinox’s eyes beg for someone to believe him. He knew they had ever right not to but still he wanted them to. To help with this case is really why he had volunteered to come to start with. Helping get Katie out in a safe way and maybe getting himself out as well with all the information one could think of about TJY.

“I was sent on a mission to infiltrate the Agency because over in Spain we have a problem with them as well. It has been going on for some time and finally we had, had enough. Hitting them in the heart, and finding out all we needed to know about them was important and that is where I came in.”

Phinox takes a long breath looking from Nate, to Carson, than back to Nate his eye slowly moving to Carson again. He couldn’t tell but there expressions if they believed him or not but he had to keep going and have them hear what he had to say.

“I was in charge of coming over and getting all the information. I was one of the top best on the Spanish force. A few months later though after losing contact I got wind that the man in charge of my mission was killed and more than likely my case was lost. If they had ever found any information that I had been over here I am sure they assumed I was dead already and just let it go.”

Phinox stops for a moment as his memories take him back to when he had found out Samson had died. He had been a close friend to Phinox and it killed him inside not being able to go home to see him buried. Along with the realization he was suck here.

“I did what I had to do to stay alive. I really can help you find Katie. Please you have to believe me. I can also get you all the information that I collected about the Agency as well. Whatever you do though I need to call my contact with the Agency or they will kill Katie on the spot thinking that I betrayed them. Please, I don’t want that girl to die anymore than you do.”

The drill

Scott heaves a sigh and tries to compose himself. He hated feeling this way – lost and out of control. He’d thought he was done feeling that way. But now… he didn’t know what was happening to him.

Dalton’s words bring some reassurance to him. At least somebody believed in him. But he still wasn’t sure himself… if he wasn’t supposed to be a spy, then what had happened to him? It was disturbing to think that he didn’t remember something like this.

Seeing the pop and jerky pushed towards him, Scott quietly refuses. “Thanks, Dalton. I don’t think I can eat anything right now.”

He looks down again. “You need to get back to work… we need everybody on the case to find Katie and… and they’re just going to leave me in here for now anyway… I know the drill.”


Seeing the look on Nate's face, Carson turns to follow his stare. His own eyes widen as a new anger burns in his veins. Seeing Phinox act like he came in peace was something he wasn't about to trust. Though the adrenaline surged through his veins, he mustered up enough control not to attack the man outright. Instead, he slowly reaches down to the phone and dials the short extension.

"Sapphire? Lock down the perimeter of TJY. Don't let anybody out of the building until Nate or I give you the all-clear."

Hanging up the phone, he knows that it would only take seconds to lock all exits. Gritting his teeth, Carson steps forward, pulling his sidearm from its holster and stretching it out to aim it at Phinox's chest. "You're from the Agency and we know it," he hisses. "As such, I'm sure you know me and know that I'm not one to play games. Now you have sixty seconds to convince me not to put a bullet in you right now."


In a quiet corner with no one around, a phone is picked up to dial out on a secure line. The voice is hushed as eyes glance around to ensure no one is listening. The other end is picked up, and the conversation is kept brief.

"He broke. ...Yes... I don't know... ...not that I know of.... they've been trying... yeah... no, I'm not sure what did... yeah.... no, but I'll make sure it is... what time? ...Okay. Goodbye."

Really

Listen to Scott Dalton's heart breaks even more. It hurt to see his younger friend in so much pain and to be treated the way he was.

"Oh Scott, I have been with you in the office almost every day for the last week. I watch you and make sure your ok when you dont even know I am looking. If you were a spy and sneeking information out of TJY I would know about it. No, your not on the wrong side."

Dalton didnt know if Scott would eat and drink or not but he hoped it would make his friend feel better. Pushing the moutain dew and jerky closer to Scott a small smile froms on his face something not often seen. He'd stay with Scott for as long as he needed, He wouldnt let his friend without anyone.

Looking up at Carson Nate lets out a sigh and than looks back to the computer screen. He needed to just sit, he was still upset about Scott and if he tryed to do anything else it just wouldnt work. Not to mention Carson hadnt had any sleep and he really needed some.

"Try and get some sleep Carson you need it. I'll be ok here for an hour or two. I need this."

Nate didnt feel like any help right now without any leads he was a sitting duck. The least he could do was watch Katie and feel like he was helping.

Standing in the doorway of TJY Phinox watchs Nate and Carson. His heart beat so fast he still didnt know if they new who he was yet or not. This could go well, or this could end bad. There was still time he could turn back and run still. No his thoughts were strong, he was tired of running he could any listen everyone would listen with an open mind.

Walk in father Phinox takes in a deep sigh the time had come, and his crimes would be payed for.

Catching movment out of the courner of his eye Nate turns his head and see Phinox. Standing from his chair quickly something resembaling a growl forms in his throut.

Seeing Nate's reaction Phinox knows that they know who he is. Holding up his hands in defence to show he ment know harm he finds his voice.

"Please let me explain, I really do want to help you find your friend and I am from the spanish secret service."

Am I?

Carson had no idea Dalton was behind him, and is taken totally off guard as the big man lifts him up. His hands wrap around Dalton's wrists, but he doesn't fight... not here... not like this. Not only did Dalton outweigh him, but there was enough at stake here that there was no time for a brawl.

Thankfully, he was set down again, and he backs up several steps out of Dalton's way. He lets Nate do the talking though... he really had nothing more to say.

Watching Dalton leave, Carson turns back to Nate, just a little out of breath. "Yeah... okay," he agrees. "I'll be right back." Heading off in the direction of Reese's office, Carson tries to think of a way to explain what had happened. Scott was still denying knowing anything, yet he had spilled information when triggered correctly. Carson really had no idea what was going on. He still held firmly to the fact that Scott had to be an Agency ally or dead... but Carson didn't want to believe Scott was a spy, and obviously, he was alive. What had happened really?


Scott keeps his face buried, but hearing Dalton's voice, he knows that he's okay. Though he's still shaking, he knows that no one else is going to hurt him. That much he could believe in... Dalton he trusted.

It takes a few moments, but Scott finally lifts his head, swiping at the tears with the back of his hand. "No... I'm not okay," he manages weakly. "They think I'm a spy and I... I don't even know."

Resting his elbows on the table, he hides his face in his hands again. "I was fine... just fine.... why now? I don't understand."

The memories pounded on the door to his soul, but he would not open it up. The images wanted to break forth, but he held them back, way down deep. Whatever it was, frightened him. And he knew... he knew on some level that something had happened to him that had been bad enough for him to have not yet dug it up... not even after all his counseling sessions. It had been buried deep... and something today had triggered it.

"I don't know what's happening to me... I don't know what information I know or why... I don't... I don't know who I am, Dalton..."

Turning, his red eyes stare at his big friend, pleading for someone to believe in him. "Am I a spy?"


Reese comes back slowly from his office, followed by Carson. He'd already called on Jason, who met them back at the cubicle as well. All four were once again trying to decide their next step.

"Alright..." Reese's voice is tight with worry as he didn't understand everything. "Carson just explained that Scott does indeed hold Agency information. But his behavior is unstable, and the pieces still don't add up. It's Carson's opinion that while Scott confirmed Phinox as part of the Agency, that's all he knows about him. So... first, we keep an eye out for Phinox. Keep up the security measures on our system to make sure no one is getting in or out. From here on out if we hear from Phinox, we will set up to trace the call if possible. He is our enemy."

Reese pauses, still hardly able to believe that the wool had been pulled over their eyes so easily. "Second - Scott is to remain in isolation. He is not to leave and is not to contact anyone outside of this building. While he says he knows nothing more, and while his confused behavior has yet to be explained, he is a security threat. Intentional or not, he may have already breached security as a spy or anything else. We just don't know. We may go to him for information, but until this thing with Katie is over, we keep him here. Once we have a handle on Katie's case, we can focus on Scott. But he is only our second priority. Is this understood?"

Receiving nods, Reese takes a deep breath. "Okay. Keep working. If anyone needs to take a couple hours and sleep, please do so. It is now four in the morning. If anyone rests, make sure there is someone to fill in for you. Above all, we have to keep moving. Though we have no leads, time is running out. They won't keep Katie alive forever."

Jason is the first to leave, heading back to his office where he was still working with Jamie and Sapphire. Once Reese is gone again too, Carson looks back at Nate. "I can relieve you now," he offers. After interrogating Scott, sitting and watching Katie just made him feel worse. But it was his post.

Little Buddy

Coming back into TJY Dalton he hurt the shouting and had hurd Scott's crys. He'd hurryed to the door and when found lock he went to the next room over to watch through the window. He didnt know what was going on but seeing what was happing to his friend made his anger boil.

Seeing Carson starting to leave Dalton looks to Scott one more time as everything inside of him raged. Leaving the room his eyes burned as he followed quickly after Carson.

Finally catching up with him at the cubicle Dalton reaches out and grabs Carson by the couler lifting him off the ground slightly, his voice gruf and full of anger.

"What do you think you were doing in there to Him? You think you can walk in here and push people around like that. Its not very nice to pick on people smaller than you."

Feeling a hand on his arm Dalton turns his head to see Nate. His eyes still burned to think Nate had let this happen.

"Dalton, we had too. Scott new information and we needed it from him. It was the only way. IF there was some other way we would have done it. Put Carson done please."

Looking to Carson again Dalton finally lowers him and lets him down. His anger was still burning. He didnt like what had happend to Scott and he didnt like how it made him feel.

Nate looks at Dalton sternly thought he new how the large man had felt. he had formed a close relationship with Scott and almost felt like his protection.

Looking to Nate Dalton stood tall with a matter of fact voice.

"I am going in there to make sure he is ok. If you want to stop me just try, stay away from Scott you have done enough damage."

Turning Dalton goes back to the intaragtion room grabbing the soda and jerky that he had dropped on his way out to Carson.

Entering the room Dalton shuts the door behind him slowly walking twords the table and setting food and drink down on the table. Bringing a change over next to his friend he lays his large hand on Scotts arm. His touch gentil as night to scair him and his voice light.

"Are you ok Little buddy? I'm here and I am not going to let them come back and hurt you ok?"

Nate's heart acked at he looked to Carson and than back to the computer feed. So manything happing, so many people being hurt Nate needed a vacation after this.

Sitting back down he looks to Carson.

"Go tell Reese what you know. I'll stay watch here a little longer."

Wreck

Still in the corner, Scott shakes. He just remains there, not knowing what was going on around him, and afraid someone would be back.


Carson looks down for a moment, taking a deep breath. He had wondered how long Nate could hold out, and it had been longer than he’d thought. But now it was his turn, as unwanted as it was. He was still working here… he had a job to do. “Okay. I’ll talk to him.”

Standing up, he lets Nate take his place at the computer. “If I’m not back in twenty minutes, come get me out. I’ll be in the number two interrogation room.” He didn’t want to be there… but this was serious.

It doesn’t take long for him to be with Scott in the interrogation room. Scott had come willingly, but tension was high. “Scott?” He paces. “Come on. Don’t let things go like this.”

“I don’t know anything.” Scott keeps his eyes on the table, his form slouched in the hard, metal chair. His tone indicated he had given up.

“Scott listen to me.” Carson moves closer. “We know that you have information. It will only make things worse for you if you don’t talk.”

“Are you interrogating me?”

“I’m trying not to.”

“Then why can’t you believe me?”

“Because I know you’re not telling the truth.”

“I am too!” Scott slams his fist down on the table. Another piece of data flashes in his mind, though he tries to make it stop. “I don’t know anything!”

“Yes you do!” Carson leans his hands on the table, lowering to see Scott’s eyes. How he hated his job. He remains cold. “I can see it in your eyes and so could Nate. Easy way or hard way, Scott?”

“You can’t make me tell you things that I don’t know.”

“Fine.” Carson moves as if he’s getting read to leave, but instead, he spins around, kicking Scott’s chair out from under him. Just as quickly, he’s grabbed the chair and pinned Scott to the floor, using the metal seat against Scott’s throat. Carson’s own knee presses into Scott’s ribcage.

Scott gasps for breath, but is no match for someone like Carson. “I don’t know anything,” he whimpers. Tears fill his eyes. “Don’t hurt me.”

Carson felt terrible. For an instant, he almost breaks. But he couldn’t. He keeps his harsh expression and tone. “I won’t if you tell me what you know. Who is Simon Phinox?”

“I don’t know!” Scott gasps, wincing as more pressure is applied. He squirms under the weight. “I don’t know!” The images continued to come, hurling in his direction.

“Tell me!” Carson shifts the chair, almost cutting off all of Scott’s air supply. “Directive! Code three three nine!”

“Don’t make me!” The tears sting Scott’s eyes. Short on breath, he fights but it’s no use.

Carson repeats his shouting. “Directive! Code three three nine!”

Scott can’t hold it in any longer. He bursts out with a wail. “Lockdown! Refuse all transmissions!”

Carson immediately relaxes. He almost wished it wasn’t true. But it was. Scott knew the upper codes of the Agency. Standing, Carson removes the chair, setting it back by the table. “Sit.”

Scott refuses, turning on his side to curl up in a tight ball.

“I said sit!” Carson grabs him by the shirt and yanks him up, throwing him hard into the seat.

Scott’s hand whacks the table and he cries out. “I don’t know what you’re talking about!”

“You obviously do. Tell me what you know, Scott. Who is Simon Phinox?”

“I don’t know!”

Carson reaches out and grabs his collar. “Directive! Agent Phinox, Simon! Profile!”

Scott couldn’t control the information. “Agent three-twenty-five!” he blurts out. “Level five clearance! Mission success ninety-five percent!”

Carson lets him go and steps back, breathing heavily. “What was he doing here?”

Scott’s head hangs. “I don’t know,” he mumbles.

“I’m warning you,” Carson threatens.

Scott is suddenly on his feet, glaring at Carson. “I don’t know!” he shouts. “I don’t know! It’s not there!”

Carson believes him. It had been quite a while since Scott had received the information he did have. But two things were obvious: Phinox was with the Agency and Scott did have Agency data. “Alright. Thank you.”

Scott watches as Carson heads for the door. “What are you going to do with me?”

“Leave you here.” Carson turns around to look at him, his eyes weary and sad. “I’m sorry, Scott. You’re a security risk. We’ll have to deal with you later.”

“But…” Scott watches the door being closed. The room is quiet. Sinking down in the chair again, he buries his face in his arms. He didn’t understand any of this. He didn’t understand! He didn’t know where this information was coming from. He didn’t remember! He just…. didn’t remember. Why was Carson interrogating him? Why was he being threatened? What was in his head? Why did he have Agency information buried? Why? How could he have understood Carson’s questions, and where did those answers come from?! He didn’t understand! What did he have buried so deeply inside of himself that he didn’t remember?! He fights against his own thoughts.

“Do you think maybe your subconscious is trying to remember…. your mind is blocking it because it knows that the memories are painful…”

“Hope?” A sob breaks forth. “What’s happening to me?”

Carson stops in the hallway, catching his breath and trying to compose himself. That had hurt more than he’d expected it to.

Regaining some control, he makes his way back to where Nate was. Stopping in the cubicle, he sets his hands on his hips, letting out a sigh. “Phinox is Agency… and Scott was assimilated.”

He shakes his head slowly. “Using Agency jargon triggered the right responses, yet he still insists on knowing nothing. I don’t know why. He’s a wreck though… someone should probably calm him down, but it can’t be me. Right now I’m his number one enemy.”

why

Cringing at the look on Scott's face fear griped Nate's own eyes alone with pain. Nate eyes get watery and he knows he cant do this any longer. Scott was his friend and the pain grip's Nate's guts.

His cold hard face turns soft again as the blood starts to drain and return to normal color. He was scaired himself, and his eyes also laced with his peays to Scott for forgivness.

"I..I'm sorry Scott."

Turning quickly Nate hurrys from the room back to where Carson was. He felt like he was going to be sick but he tryed his best to hold it in. Nodding at Carson his voice shakes though is still a bit gruph and hard.

"Go, I got the camra. I just couldnt do it."

His mind raced with questions, and fears that Scott would never trust him again. Why? Why did it have to be like this.

Shouting

Fear and confusion were written all over Scott’s face. He jumps as Nate shouts at him. He wanted to turn around and run, but there was no escape route. He wanted to hide, but there was no place big enough.

He quivers, his face growing red from humiliation. Terror seized him. If Nate was not his friend, who could he trust? He swallows hard as his stomach churns.

Nate’s shouted words hit Scott with force, and he backs up against the wall. “I don’t know anything!” he yells back. “I’m not playing games and I’m not a spy!! I don’t know what you’re talking about and I don’t know anything!” His throat already hurt from his own shouting. “If I knew something, don’t you think I would have told you by now?! If I did know something, then I don’t remember!”

His gaze wildly searches Nate’s and he slides to the corner of the office, trying to disappear in shadow. “I don’t know anything!!”


Carson lifts his head, hearing the shouting going on down the hall. He inwardly cringes. Apparently it wasn’t going well. He wondered though if perhaps he himself held the right trigger if Scott wasn’t going to talk to Nate. It might take both their efforts.

Games

Nate own anger rises, but he trys to keepp a certin top on it. His own fears and pain play to him. He had to keep going, he had to push Nate.

Standing abruptly Nate slams his fists on Scott's desk stairing over at him.

"I know you know something Scott dont even give me that you dont. STOP PLAYING AROUND or I will throw you into the holding cell untill you tell me. This is Katie's life Scott think about her and tell me you dont know anything again."

Nate's heart broke and he didnt know how much more of this he could take, but he had to keep going.

"TELL ME WHAT YOU KNOW SCOTT, THE MORE YOU HIDE THE MORE IT LOOKS LIKE YOUR GUILTY AND I WILL TREAT YOU AS SUCH. TELL ME WHAT YOU KNOW UNLESS YOU ARE A SPY, STOP PLAYING GAMES."

Accused

Nate’s harsh tone makes Scott immediately recoil. He sinks lower in his chair, pulling away, a fear entering his eyes.

He flinches at Nate’s loud tone, wincing as a cruel memory of interrogation surfaces.

But as the accusations build, so does Scott’s anger. Overcoming being afraid of Nate for the moment, Scott turns. His eyes have widened, tears threatening to spill over.

Slowly, he rises to his feet, staring down at Nate. “Don’t you ever… ever accuse me of not caring about Katie or wanting her to die.”

His fists ball at his sides so tightly that his knuckles turn white. His lower lip trembles. “I… do not… know… anything!” With each word, his tone rises.

There was something inside of him… something that was evoking a terrible fear that he was unwilling to face.

“How many times do I have to tell you?!”

Scott can’t help the pain that courses through his gaze. “You of all people, Nate… I would have at least thought that you never would have accused me of playing the wrong side. But I guess I was wrong about you.”

Rip

Nate's eyes become stern, as his body stiffens. He new this wasnt going to be easy but he has a glimmer of hope that maybe it would of been. Nate hated it but he new it had to be done.

His eyes darking a little bit as he trys to shut out his own emotions and feelings for his friend. Straghting in the chair a little more than casual Nate speaks again his voice taking on a harder tone.

"Scott I know you know something more than what your saying. Carson saw it and I can see it. You need to tell us what is going on or is that what this is around? You want Katie to die? You want us not to find her?"

Nate hated this, or how he hated this and it tore his heart on the inside. He only hoped when this was done and over with Scott would forgive him.

"Is that it Scott are you apart of the agency and you want Katie to wilt away and see what happens to us all. You want everyone to be in pain. DONT YOU SCOTT....."

Nate lets his frustrations out and lets them drive him clouding everything alse from his mind. Infront of him was not his friend right now but someone who might hold the key. Letting his voice grow louder he is sure anyone else outside could hear him.

"Tell us what you know Scott, tell us about Phinox....tell us about how to tell Katie or so help me I will get it out of you myself."

Nothing

Scott takes a moment to look away from his computer screen. But when he did, the look on Nate's face told him that this was no casual visit.

Swallowing hard, he pauses his work. He blinks, receiving the questions. For a moment, he's completely silent. His eye glances down, around and back up again. His leg bounced nervously under the desk, while his fingers ran along the desktop. "I...I don't have any information, Nate. Carson was already in here once saying something crazy about me and the Agency and I told him the same thing."

His body language betrays him. He wasn't telling the whole truth. "Sorry, but I don't know a thing."

Question

Listen to Reese a churning forms in Nate's stomach for more than one reason. Everything coming back up with Scott again made Nate feel sick. And him being the one that might have to push his friend hurt. Than knowing that maybe one of Katie's captures had been under there nose the whole time and they hadnt known it upset him to know end. To think someone got into TJY that was the enemy and they didnt know it and than they let maybe there only link to Katie leave made him upset even more. Standing from his chair Nate gives a small nod though he new his eyes told it all that he really hated doing this. "If I need any help I'll ask you Carson and I will watch the camras." Turning and walking down the hall Nate gives a nod to Dalton who was coming the other way offering a small smile. "I am going to go grab something to eat and some more beef jerky for Scott. I'll be back if anyone looks for me." Continuing along his way the Hulk of a man disapears out of TJY. Getting to the office that Scott was in Nate stops for a second and takes a deep breath. Giving a knock on the door he steps in and shuts the door behind him trying to offer a friendly smile to Scott. "Hey Scott I wanted to talk to you for a second." Pulling an extra chair over the the desk Nate sits down and sits across from him. Keep his eyes calm but stern Nate ment busness. "Scott, I want to try and do this the easy way first because your my friend. We need to know though, what did the Agecny feed you? Phinox is missing, and we think he is part of the Agency the only one who would know that is you? Scott please try and help us out."

Hiting the town line Phionx stops looking out over a plot of land that had a for sale sign. There was nothing of relavince to it just something inside him tugged and told him to stop.

He felt like a creep, he felt like a betrayer. What was he doing?

For a moment his mind wonders and a look once again pass in his eyes. His mind plays back to his life that was lost so long ago in Mexico. All he new, all he loved. What would they think if they saw him now? Could he really leave and let Katie suffer could he rune these people's lifes like the Agecny had runed his?

Unanswered questions

Told that Reese would be there soon for a meeting, Carson is a bit surprised. He asks no questions though… answers would come soon enough.

Looking to Nate, he shakes his head, then looks back to the monitor. His eyes were tired and bloodshot, but he would barely blink, lest he miss something. “No… nothing new. The one guy has come in and out a few times – seems to be the top dog. Then there’s that fellow, Gage. Something is a bit odd about him… he almost seems hesitant to do anything to Katie, but with no sound, it’s hard to tell.”

Jason grits his teeth, barely able to watch. His heart screamed out to him. “Does she move at all?”

“Yeah. I think she drifts in and out of sleep. I’ve seen her move all her limbs, which is a good thing – I don’t think bones are broken at this point.”

Jason looks away again, folding his arms. “Where is Reese?” he grumbles.

“Easy,” Carson warns. “He’s coming.”

As promised, ten minutes later, Reese shows up. He stalks into TJY, his face showing how irritated he was. Lengthening his stride, he doesn't slow before reaching Katie's cubicle. "Alright, guys, listen up. Does anyone know where Simon Phinox went?"

Jason looks to Carson, then to Nate. No one seemed to know.

Reese reads the silence. "Does anyone know exactly where he came from?"

Carson keeps one eye on the monitor, the other on Reese. "I thought Brown sent him."

"Yeah, well apparently not."

"What do you mean?"

"I just spoke to Brown. He's never heard of Simon Phinox."

Jason frowns. "I thought you called Brown to confirm right after Phinox showed up."

"I did. I... can't explain that. But it wasn't Brown I talked to. Someone had a hold on the line."

"Now what?"

"I want to know where Phinox came from." Reese grits his teeth. He was in commander mode, not friend mode. "And I want to know soon."

Jason racks his brain. "You mean you don't assume he's from the Agency?"

"I don't want to assume anything. My first guess would be Agency, yes. He infiltrated us successfully, gained access to our databases, and passed on who knows how much information. But would I bet my life that he's Agency? No. He could be from a number of enemy organizations."

Carson stares at the computer screen for a moment, then looks back up to Nate for a moment. His eyes had something strange in them... Almost a thought that he didn't want to expose, but he knew he had to, and he was asking a friend's permission. Finally he speaks - but his words are aimed at Reese. "If he's from the Agency... I think I know who would be able to tell us."

Reese waits for a response, a bit impatiently. "Well? Who?"

"Scott."

Jason's eyes widen. "Scott? Why? He would have told us already if he knew Phinox."

"Not necessarily."

Reese throws up his arms. "Jason, quiet. Carson, explain."

"I think the Agency tried to assimilate Scott."

"And what does that mean?"

"Ninety-nine percent of Agency prisoners, they either kill off, or make into their own agents, by making them angry enough to join forces, or giving them reasons to retaliate against the law. They accept people... people like me." Carson swallows hard. "If the prisoner resists, they're the ones that are left to die, or killed on the spot."

Reese nods. "Go on."

Carson thinks for a moment. "The other one percent are those intelligent enough that the Agency wants them for more, and they have an assimilation program. It's a step-by-step process. First, they break the prisoner, physically and mentally, using brutality and near-starvation. Second, once the prisoner is down, they try to befriend the them by offering deals, medical help, that sort of thing. If resistance is still shown, then the third step is more torture."

"And you were at a level of the Agency privy to this information?"

"Yes." Carson pauses, his eyes shifting before returning to Reese. "I was involved in the first and third steps."

"I see. Go on."

"Once the Agency is convinced that the prisoner is totally broken, they begin to brainwash them."

"How do they know they're broken?"

Carson swallows hard. Scott had become a friend of his, and he hated putting him in this scenario. But it fit. "Usually it's when they start begging to be let go or to be killed. It's when they're at their weakest point."

Reese nods. "I see. Then what?"

"They execute brainwashing techniques using advanced technology. They want the prisoner to believe that they are on the right side and that the government and law are the enemies. At some point, they decide that the prisoner is ready for the final stage... They're convinced that the prisoner is on their side, ready to take orders." Carson pauses once more. "When they believe the prisoner is under their control and ready for the Agency cause, the final step is to feed them information from their computer database."

"Feed them? What do you mean?"

"They set the now-ally down, hook them up with some kind of electronic device that effects the brain."

Jason quirks an eyebrow, throwing a quick look at Nate then back to Carson. "Electronic device?"

"Yeah. The Agency is no idiot when it comes to technology. It's an actual computer feed and they basically transfer information from their database to the willing prisoner."

"Why would they want a man to carry the information instead of just leaving it in the computer system?"

"A couple reasons. One is a safety measure. They lose their energy source, have to pack up and leave, get raided - you name it - they have people who know that information. They also have access to files when computers are not accessible... say out in the field or on assignment. That chosen person has the information they need. They become the Agency's most valuable players, which can also guarantee their survival. Whether it's on a case for general use, or something more important, superiors can ask questions or release responses by visual triggers."

"But they can't extract the information the same way they put it in... only by verbal or visual triggers?"

"Actually... that's not true. They also have reverse technology. They can extract the information just like they put it in. But it doesn't erase it from the host - it only copies it back into the computer system."

Reese furrows his brow, setting his hands on his hips. "And you think that Scott is a host?"

"I do." Carson nods. "I've seen how triggers affect someone, an Scott's showing the signs. He says he doesn't remember, but I don't know why. That doesn't make sense."

"But if the process goes like you said... why was Scott still a prisoner?"

"I don't know." Carson purses his lips. "I've never seen the program fail. Scott should either be an Agency ally, or dead. But I still think he has information about the Agency that has yet to be unlocked."

"And you think one of the pieces is Phinox."

"It's a good possibility."

Reese heaves a deep sigh. He looks to Jason, then to Nate. At this point they really didn't have anything else to go on. "Where's Reiker?"

"Still in the interrogation room," Jason answers. "Ryder's back in there with him. Said it was a lost cause, but he didn't have anything else to do."

Reese tries to think quickly. "Okay... Carson, keep watch here on Katie just like you have been. Jason, I want you to coordinate with Jamie and Sapphire on finding out of any of our own files have been damaged or transfered out of here since Phinox arrived. Change the passwords into our systems. And Nate... you need to talk to Scott."

"It's getting late," Carson warns, "and we're all exhausted. Scott's in a vulnerable position..." He glances to Nate. "He's not going to want to talk - I don't know why, but he didn't want to talk to me earlier. But the only way to find out if he knows anything is if you put pressure on him. Now I don't know why he doesn't want to talk... there are too many reasons to speculate."

Reese hesitates. "Carson, are you sure? I don't want to pressure him for no reason. He's still not a hundred percent stable."

"I'd be willing to bet on it," Carson states flatly. "I already tried asking him about it once and I saw it in his eyes... he has information... any of it could lead us to Phinox, confirm his identity, or even help us with this case in general. I don't know why he's still alive or why he's not with the Agency now... but my gut says that's the case. The only other scenario would be that he really is with the Agency and they let him live and come back here as a mole."

"Don't even suggest that," Jason snarls.

"Jase," Reese warns. "Stand down. It's just a possibility that we're sure isn't true. But there are a lot of questions here. If its true that Scott has this information, then pieces aren't lining up - Carson is right. Scott should be an enemy or dead. If he was fed this information, the Agency wouldn't have let him live at all, let alone get back here. Something isn't right and we need to find out what."

He looks to Nate again. "You have your instructions. See if Scott knows about Phinox. If he doesn't, then drop it. We don't need to make things worse for him by interrogating him like..." His words suddenly trail off, his face paling.

Jason frowns. "What is it?"

"Um... um, nothing. I just... nothing." Reese shakes his head. "Nate, if Scott does give you information, then we know what Carson said is true. And if that's the case... then we need to figure out what really went on when Scott was with the Agency. He'll need to be isolated until we can question him thoroughly - we can't leak anything anywhere. Right now our priority is finding Katie. Scott's situation is second."

Ok

Misty cant help the small laugh that formed. To think she could laugh at anything Alec said was strange but it seemed his mood had lightened up for the moment. And if for this moment he was being calm thats really all that mattered.

"Oh give me a break. Like a little note book to the head ever killed anyone not to mention you probley hardly even felt it."

Looking up at Jason the look on Nate's face is one of a little confustion. What would Reese have to tell them that he didnt over the phone.

His heart pounds and gives a leep though. Maybe just maybe Reese and Phinox had gotten a lead.

Standing from his desk and walks with Jason over to where Carson was at Katie's desk and pulls a chair up from the empty cubicle on the other side. Looking at the live feed Nate see that all is quiet at the moment and Katie was still slumped on the floor.

"Anything new happen? Is she doing ok?"

Nate didnt know what alse to say or what else to ask. But as long as Katie looked like she was doing ok than she was.

Don't know...

"Good to see you." Reese shakes Brown's hand as they both stand in the cluttered office at the police station. "Hope I'm not keeping you out too late."

"No, it was a late night for me anyway," Brown admits. "So what can I do for you? Any updates on the Pent case?"

"Unfortunately, no." Reese shakes his head in disappointment. "I was wondering if your guys got any leads after the analysis from evidence from the house."

"There wasn't much to go on." Brown leans a little on the edge of his desk. "Nothing to speak of as far as leads. One body is still unidentified. The other we found out who he is, but we haven't found any connections to anyone else that would serve as a breadcrumb trail." He cocks his head. "Why did you want to come down here instead of just asking me over the phone?"

"Can't be too careful with this. The Agency is all over the place and if there's any chance of them tapping into our phone lines or tracing calls, I want to avoid it. The less they know about what we know, the better. And, I thought I'd give Phinox a chance to come down and report in person too. He should be right behind me."

Brown furrows his brow. "Who?"

"Phinox... Simon Phinox. You know, the guy you sent over to help us."

"Sent over to... who?"

Reese blinks. "The guy from the Spanish secret service, over here after chasing down a crook. I confirmed it with you on the phone, don't you remember?"

Brown's eyes widen. "I don't know anybody by that name... And I haven't sent anyone over to the Elite. All my men have been working here. I figured if you needed help, you'd ask for it."

"You mean you didn't... you don't..."

Brown shakes his head. "I'm sorry. But I haven't done anything and I don't know the man."


Jason is once again sitting quietly, alone in his office. Trooper sat next to him, bent with his head resting in Jason's lap. Jason's fingers absentmindedly stroked the short hair and ran along the dog's ears.

God. Why that subject was heavy on his mind again, he wasn't sure. It seemed to come in spurts. One day he wanted to know more about it and really would dive into study, and the next it just didn't seem all that important. Things would happen that would make him stop and think that maybe God really was an important aspect of life. But then when things calmed down again, it always just seemed obvious that God wasn't anything Jason needed to worry about right now. Tonight though... once again, he'd swung back to the questions and the strange tugging at his heart. He was surrounded by people who had strong faiths in God. He respected all of them, and their intelligence... if God was that important to them, wasn't there really something to it? And what about what Scott had just said about after death? What if Katie was found, but Jason was killed on the mission? Where would that leave him? If he died tonight, did he know where he would be going?

His direct line ringing made him jump. His thoughts were shattered and he was brought back to reality as he reached for the phone.

"Jase?"

"Yeah."

"Is Phinox still there?" Reese keeps one hand on the wheel, and one on his phone as he heads across town, the street lights whizzing by.

"I don't know."

"Well find out!"

"Alright, alright!"

Reese sighs as he slows at an intersection. It seemed to take Jason forever to get back on the line.

"He's not here. Sapphire said she saw him leave a while ago. We thought he was following you to the station. What happened?"

"I don't know. Look..." Reese thinks quickly. "...get Nate and go wait with Carson since he's still on watch for the video. I'll be back in the office in about ten minutes. We need to talk."

"About what?"

"Just do it, Jason! I'll explain when I get there." Reese hangs up before Jason can ask more questions. Right now, Reese didn't have any answers.

Jason hangs up the phone, bewildered. What was going on? He would follow orders without knowing though. Standing, he heads out to Nate's desk. "Hey, Nate?" He leans on the cubicle wall. "Reese is on his way back. Wants us to wait with Carson so we can all talk. Something to do with Phinox but he wouldn't say what."


Alec flinches as the notepad hits him in the head. "Hey, what kind of treatment is that? From a doctor?" He smirks at Misty. "If that's what I get being sick and injured, remind me to stay healthy. I think it's safer down in the holding cell. ...not as exciting, but safer."

Out of Town

Watching Reese leave Phinox's heart starts to race once again. He was going to let Brown know he was coming. There really wasnt anything he could do to stop this now. For the first time in a while Phinox gets a wave of fear the washes over him but not for himself but for Katie. Who new what The Agency would do if he was caught, and than what would happen to him when TJY found out, than for sure he wouldnt be able to help Katie.

Looking down at the report Phinox is quick to finish up knowing he really only had one paragraph left. Finishing it up he stands and takes it to Reese office. Laying it down on his desk Phinox just pases the office for a moment continplatng what to do.

He new what he had to do. Phinox had to get out and away from TJY. He couldnt let them catch him and what happend from there happend. He couldnt worry about it anymore and had to look out for himself and those who mattered.

Exiting Reese's office Phinox makes his way across the floor. Seeing Nate he gives a quick nod.

"I am going to go meet Reese and Brown now."

He hated lieing, oh how he hated lieing but it came so easy now that some times he didnt give it a second thought. Getting outside Phinox gets into his car and pulls out of the parking lot heading out of town was the best place for him.

Taking a pad of paper a smerk forms on Misty's face for a moment as she throws it at Alec boping him in the head with it.

Shaking her own head she looks down at her desk for a moment and than gets up going over to the counter to look at a few things before than returning back to her desk.

...

Reese is a little surprised that Phinox isn't finished with his report yet, but there isn't much he can do about it.

"Well alright then. I'll go on ahead and let Brown know you're coming. Don't take too long though - I don't want to keep him too late at this hour."

Reese turns around and heads for the exit, hitting the fresh air.


Alec doesn't flinch, and doesn't look away either. The grin remains. "My brother catches me in here watching you, he'll have to get your permission, as the doctor, to hurt me again. For some reason, I bet you wouldn't let him punch me. But even if you did, that would just give me one more reason to stay up here longer. I can stand a little more pain."

He settled into his pillow, but keeps his eyes on Misty. "Besides... I hate reading books."


It had been a while. Carson wanted another break. This time though, it wasn't so he could go outside. He accepts Wyatt's offer, and leaves the cubicle once more.

He wanders down to the hallway, then into Scott's office and pauses in the doorway. Dalton was there. He'd prefer Scott alone. But the big man seemed to be engrossed in work. "Scott?"

Scott looks up. He peered at Carson through his one eye, the other still covered and masked by his contact. "Yeah?" Strange that Carson was back again.

Carson moves in closer and hooks his hands in his pockets, leaning against the wall. He keeps his voice in a low tone. "They fed you, didn't they?"

Scott's face pales slightly and he swallows hard. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Carson persists. "Why didn't you put it in your report about your abduction?"

"Put what in it?"

"About them trying to assimilate you."

Scott's eyes look down, then back up again. "I still don't know what you're talking about."

"You see the information, don't you?" Carson tries another tactic. "That's why you don't like looking through the pictures, because it's triggering all that data... isn't it?"

Scott shifts his weight nervously. "I said I don't know what you're talking about. There's as lot I don't remember."

Carson backs off a little. Was Scott telling the truth? Did he really not know what the Agency had done to him? Carson knew. But if it had been traumatic enough, maybe Scott truly didn't remember. "Alright," he relents. "But when you start seeing that information again... you shouldn't fight it. You need to tell somebody about it."

Watching Carson leave, Scott can feel the tension in himself. He didn't want to remember. He didn't want things to surface. He didn't understand this, but was afraid to face it. He knew Hope had been right... if there was something here that could help him, he shouldn't resist it. But whatever this was, it frightened him. For some reason, he knew Carson was right, even if he was trying not to remember it.

Swallowing hard, Scott tries to work again. He can almost feel Dalton's eyes, and wonders if he can get away with this whole thing going ignored.

Go ahead

Giving a roll of her eyes Misty cant help the faint grin the forms on her lips. He was related to Carson. Smooth talker and all.

"Don't flatter yourself."

Looking down at her paper work Misty can feel the eyes that are still on her. Giving a sigh she puts her pen down and looks up seeing Alec still looking at her. Raising an eyebrow she shakes her head.

"I cant work with you staring at me you know. Do you want a book or something to look at to keep you busy and not looking at me? Your brother catchs you doing it he might pop you one again."

Being lost in thought for the moment Phinox is startled by Reese voice but quickly recoves looking up at his current employer.

He had about three paragraphs written and still had much more he needed to do. And now the though of going to see Brown made his heart race again. time was not on his side and was closing in quickly. It almost felt like he was suffacating. Being pulled one way, and than another. Right and wrong, wrong and right.

"I dont have the report done yet. It is almost done though. I just have a little more to write so if you wanna go ahead without me I as soon as I am done here I will drive over there to meet you. That was I can get this done and wont hold you up."

Phinox offers Reese a small smile. He only hoped he would take what he said and go. That would buy him some more time and he would figure the rest out later.

Missing

Scott slides in behind the steering wheel and starts the engine. He glances over to the other parking space where Hope's car was for just a moment, before pulling out. He didn't like driving at night anymore... he wanted to get back to TJY as quickly as possible.

As he drives, his mind wanders. That had been enjoyable. He enjoyed talking to Hope... he enjoyed listening to her... he enjoyed her smile.

He shakes his head at himself as he stops at an intersection. She was a counselor. She had been, still was kind of his counselor. Didn't that complicate things a bit? Or was spending time together as friends really that simple? He didn't know.


Jason sits at his desk, staring at the photo in his hand. Those who knew it existed had no idea how many times he got it out just to look at it. He runs his thumb over the still image of Katie's wind-blown hair. She meant so much to him. She was his lifeline... his reason to live... his hero. And right now, he couldn't feel more alone. All he could do was sit here and wait. There were no leads. There was nothing to trace. The Agency was too smart for their own good.

Movement catches his eye, and he looks up to see Scott passing in the hall on the way back to his office. Jason glances at his clock. He knew Scott had stepped out for a bit a while ago, but he didn't like it that he'd been gone for so long.

Rising from his desk, Jason leaves the picture behind and exits his office to follow Scott. He stops at the door of Scott and Dalton's office. Scott was already seated, getting back to work on the profiles. "Scott?"

"Yeah?" Scott looks up quickly.

"Have a nice time?"

Scott can feel a sinking sensation in his stomach. "Um... yeah."

"Good. I hope you realize that while you were out, those data files have been sitting there, waiting to be gone through."

Scott's eyes widen slightly. "We all need a break, Jase."

"I don't care!" Jason snaps. "Katie's life is on the line, don't you get it?! Have you see the live feed? Do you realize that if we don't find her, they might kill her? We're running out of time, Scott!"

Scott blinks. Any amount of peace that he'd gained from the short outing was wiped away in an instant. It was a harsh reality check. But he knew that none of this was his fault. He remains silent, waiting for the tongue-lashing to pass. He lowers his eyes back to his computer.

Jason just stares at him for several moments. He seemed to have no reaction to what Jason was saying. He folds his arms. "Don't you care?"

Scott's head snaps up. "Of course I care. I can't believe you asked me that."

"Well you don't act like it."

"What do you want me to do?" Before Scott can stop them, tears flood his eyes. "Do you want me to walk around showing my scar and wearing it all on my sleeve?" His voice wavers. "Do you want to hear about each time I just want to sit and cry for Katie? Or every time I think I'm gonna throw up, just thinking about what she's going through?"

Jason swallows hard. He'd spoken hastily and without thinking first. He calms down a little, his tone softening. But his confusion remains. "How do you stay sane?"

Scott doesn't hesitate. "Because I know she's not alone."

"What are you talking about?"

"She's not alone, Jase." Though Scott's voice was strained with emotion, there was a peaceful strength that was untouchable. "God never leaves his children."

"Yeah? Well how come He let this happen?"

"I don't know. But He didn't cause it, and He will bring good from it."

"What if He doesn't?" Jason's anger surfaces again. "What if we don't find her in time?"

A silent tear rolls down Scott's face, but he doesn't blink or lower his gaze. "Then I know that I'll see her again soon."

A chill runs down Jason's spine. The Truth was being laid out in front of him, whether he liked or expected it or not. "You really believe that?"

"I've wagered my soul on it." Scott's hands tremble as he speaks, the strength and passion for his faith having been bottled inside, waiting for the right time. He'd encouraged Jason in his farewell letter - now he had one more chance. "God is my Father and Katie's too. He will never let us down or forget or abandon us. And the end result far outweighs the trials before we get there."

"Father," Jason scoffs. "That hasn't really been a great department for me."

"God's not Derek," Scott counters boldly. "God listens... God cares... God nourishes the spirit and gives peace. God is taking care of Katie, even while she suffers. And He wants to take care of you too, if you'll just let Him."

"I've studied and still don't think it's worth the hassles."

"Hassles? What hassles?" Scott shakes his head. "That's an excuse and you know it. You've tried it on your own... you've tried doing everything yourself. Isn't it about time you leaned on God? Isn't it about time you had the assurance that no matter what, in the end you will be okay and will live forever with those who have also believed?" He takes a deep breath, studying Jason's eyes. "Someone else should never be the deciding factor for your own faith. But wouldn't you like the peace of knowing that no matter if anything happened to Katie or you, that in the end, you both will be in the same place?"

Jason's jaw muscles tighten as a feeling stirred inside of him. Scott would say it was God working on his heart. But Jason didn't recognize what it was. It felt strange... like a pulling towards what Scott was saying. Like a longing he hadn't known he had.

Scott speaks again. "That's why I have hope, Jase. That's why even though I'm torn up inside thinking about Katie, that I still have a peace, knowing that it will be okay."

Jason is quiet for several moments but finally turns and leaves, going back to his office to be alone. He didn't know what to think or how to feel.

Scott watches him leave, then sighs deeply. He'd done all he could...

...Scott watches the faces come and go on the screen, one after the other. His finger was poised over his keyboard to stop the process whenever one image was similar enough to the man he was looking for, to put into the "maybe" file.

Click.... click... click. The task wore on. Scott wasn't sure how long he'd even been at it. All at once, one of the faces flashes in front of him, jolting his mind like a trigger. The unwanted sensation returns of pictures and faces he didn't know, names, information he didn't want to recall. Everything spun before his eyes.

Giving a shove to the desk, Scott pushes away in his chair and stands up abruptly, taking his eyes away from his task. His pulse was racing.

Seeing a shadow on the floor he looks up quickly, scared out of his state. "Carson," he breathes. "How long have you been standing there?"

"Just for a second." Carson cocks his head. The second had been long enough for him to see Scott's strange behavior. "What are you looking at?"

"Um... photos. Trying to tag one of the guys who has Katie."

"Oh. What records are you using?"

"It's a combination of files from the police, FBI... some of our own stuff collected from the Agency."

Carson gives a little nod, his eyes still studying Scott's face. "I bet you recognize a few of them ay?"

"No." Scott's response is quick, and he shakes his head. "I... I don't remember many faces."

"Oh." Carson pauses as if thinking there was more, but Scott doesn't offer anything. "Just wanted you to know that Reese wants an update when you've got one."

"Yeah, okay." Scott says no more, just watching until Carson leaves. Letting out a sigh, he sinks back down in his chair. He had an update to prepare for Reese.

Carson wanders back down the hall, finding Katie's desk once more, again taking his place after Wyatt had watched for him. He'd taken a short break outside to calm his nerves with another smoke before coming back inside, regrouping, and heading to Scott for an update. Now it was back to his task of watching the video of Katie. He still hadn't said much about it... he still continued to keep up his wall. He was numb and he liked it that way. He felt nothing.

After a few minutes though, he keeps the video feed to one side, opening some files on the other. Part of his mind was still on Scott. He continues to watch what he was supposed to, while at the same time begins a brief search. It doesn't take him long. The file wasn't buried deeply - there was no reason for it to be.

Reading on down through the document, Carson sees information that he had assumed would be there. But reaching the end, something was missing.

He leans back in the chair and thinks for a moment, recalling Scott's behavior. Carson knew the signs. He'd seen them before. But why.... He shakes his head. He would find out later.


Alec quirks a grin. "Don't pull any punches, do you? Even you order me around. Alright... fine." He pushes off the desk and ambles back to the bed where he sinks down once again. "You think I'm really going to tell you that I feel great so you can throw me back downstairs? I think I'll stay up here for a while. At least the scenery is nicer." He turns his head, his grin turning into a sly one. "And I'm not referring to Rick."


Reese looks at his watch. He'd called Brown. Half an hour had passed. He needed to leave his paperwork and go. Though he wanted to stay in case anything happened, he really did need to see Brown, give him a face-to-face update and see if the police knew anything as well.

Getting up from his desk, Reese wanders out of his office. Susanne's desk was dark - he'd told her to go home an hour ago and get some sleep. She hadn't resisted.

He heads across the main floor, passing Nate, then stopping where Phinox was working. "Simon?" He taps on the wall. "Heading out. You with me?"


Laura stirs on the bed, opening her eyes wide. She really hadn't intended on falling asleep... but it had felt so good. She tries to get up, but her body just doesn't want to cooperate. Her eyes were so heavy...... she was still so tired. Maybe five more minutes?