The Lion's Dentc "The Lion's Den"
Steve McGarrett looked out across the ocean and watched the newest member of 5-0 maneuver his surfboard on the huge wave. "He makes it look effortless...he's good!" Steve commented to Kono.
"Yeah he is," Kono replied with a huge smile on his face. He was surprised at how little prodding it took to get Steve to come watch the amateur competition finals. "You can tell how much he loves the sport!"
"Wonder why he didn't turn professional? With enough practice he could do it, he has the talent. Why do you think he decided to be a cop and not a surfer?" Steve asked.
"He's never really said. I think being a cop was just more important to him." Looking at his watch Kono jumped to his feet, "I gotta go, promised to meet Chin for lunch. Are you interested?"
Steve smiled at the urgency in Kono's actions and the hope in his voice that the invitation would be turned down. "No, thanks though...Danno only has one more set and I'd like to watch. I'll see you after lunch."
The sun was bright with the slightest of breezes. 'What a day to be on the beach!' Steve thought as he took in the sweet aroma of native flowers mixed with the slight scent of the crisp salty ocean breeze. Spotting Danny taking his last ride, he regretted that he wasn't in his bathing suit. 'It would take absolutely nothing for Danno to convince me to stay the rest of the day.' As pleasant as the thought was, Steve knew it would be impossible. With Danny out on leave, work was busting at the seams!
When Danny reached the shoreline, Steve went to greet the young man and congratulate him on another perfect ride. Danny smiled as he saw Steve approaching him with shoes and socks in hand. "You look funny Steve," Danny called out, "with your suit on carrying your shoes and socks!"
"Watch it buddy or you can kiss this towel good bye!" Steve laughed as he flung a beach towel towards Danny. "You going hippy on me Danno?" Steve teased as he inspected the shaggy shape of the detective's hair.
"Don't worry," Danny replied as he began to dry off with the towel. "I have an appointment with the barber first thing Saturday!"
Though his hair was only slightly longer than usual, Steve noticed that Danny looked so young. 'Danno always looks so young!' Steve thought to himself. Upon closer inspection, his mind began to work. 'I bet he could easily pass off as being 20 or 21...maybe even 19 if we tried hard enough.' "Don't Danno. Don't cut your hair until I tell you to."
Danny sobered quickly at the statement...and the very serious look on Steve's face. "You know I never thought I would hear you say that! If my hair even THINKS about getting longer you start leaving the phone number to my barber taped to my phone. So what's up?"
Walking to his car Steve explained. "We believe we have a prostitution ring operating on the island targeting high school and college students. We caught two kids willing to talk to some extent. So far we know the main angle is money. Kids are promised money beyond their dreams by what they call Recruiters. Some Recruiters use drugs to get the kids involved. They get the kids hooked first then begin to charge them. When the habit becomes more than the kid can afford, they get them to go to work for them by putting them on the street as prostitutes. We were told they are always approached by college students, or at least college age students. According to the two we caught it seems it's the same students who do the recruiting."
"I imagine it's pretty tough for a young girl to tell you about her prostitution. Are they from the Island?" Danny asked, sickened at the thought of a man with a girl so young. These days many women were open to casual sex. Many times they even instigated it. Part of the free love generation. Why would someone want a prostitute, especially a child?
"I imagine it would be tough for a young girl to talk about it."
Danny stopped and stared at Steve with a full understanding of the comment. He wasn't so naive to think boys wouldn't be involved in prostitution, but it was the last thing he thought of. "The two you talked to were boys? Steve, that's...man."
"I know." Steve said understanding the statement fully. "I know the ring has got to be supported by an older organization, possibly the Kumu or even Brighton. No way a group of college kids could organize something this detailed so quickly. Takes too much money to get it all started."
"Karl Brighton?" Danny looked puzzled. "I thought we got rid of him, had him running wiki wiki almost a year ago?"
"That's what always bothered me. For someone as connected as Brighton, he went running awfully fast."
"So you think he connected with someone before he left and is now running the show from the mainland?"
"It is merely speculation right now. My gut tells me he's the one we're looking for...not the Kumu. But I have to prove it."
"So what does all of this have to do with my hair?" Danny asked with a grin on his face.
"Danno, you're a young man and not that far removed from teenagers. I mean your sister is what, 20 years old now?"
"Actually Amy is still a teenager herself," Danny added fondly. Amy Punana was the youngest member of his family. Never thinking of the Punanas as his foster family, Danny appreciated the fact that his co-workers and friends thought of the Punanas as his family as well.
"Well, I think if you let your hair grow some, put you in a pair of your jeans and a T-shirt you could pass as a 19 or 20 year old. More importantly is what you DON'T look like!"
Intrigued and rising to the bait Danny asked, "And what is that? A cop?"
Patting Danny's shoulder Steve smiled, "Exactly!"
He knew how much Danny hated everyone teasing him about being the baby of the group...and looking too young to shave. Chin gave him the name of a place where he could pick up a fake ID. "You too young looking, you'll need this to get into the cafeteria without a monitor!' Steve smiled at the antics the team played on Danny because of his youthful looks. He always laughed at some of the antics Danny pulled in revenge. Everything was taken good naturedly and he never felt the need to put a stop to it. In their high-pressured job, it was refreshing to see his guys laugh and enjoy each other. Sure was a stark difference from the way things were before Danny joined them.
Coming back to the here and now, Steve turned to look out to the ocean once again. As he took in the light breeze he continued, "I've had a problem finding someone who I feel could do the job...someone who looked young enough so the kids will buy the act, yet seasoned enough that they can handle such a sensitive assignment and most likely do it alone. You're already there on both counts. This group is like a virus, they seem to be growing. The two we caught were witnesses to the murder of that teenage prostitute that happened last month. They've been scared out of their wits since then. No matter who is hurt or involved, I have taken a personal interest in stopping those responsible for putting kids into these situations."
Not even giving a second thought to the obvious dangers involved, Danny asked, "When do you want me to start?"
"You'll need time to let your hair grow more, maybe in about a month. That will give us more than enough time to set up your cover and hopefully get more information on the gang. You can be a transfer student to the University of Hawaii - with a reputation of looking for action. If you can find a way to make contact with this group and then convince them you want to be one of their so called Enforcers, maybe we can break it."
"What's an 'Enforcer'? And why that?" Danny interrupted.
"Several reasons. One is you will have access to some of those involved and hopefully their inner workings after you become a full blood member. Second, they don't allow their Enforcers to take drugs, drink, or work as a prostitute...so you will have some protection in that aspect. As to what is an Enforcer, they do the leg work for the 'boss'. Mostly any rough stuff needed to be done to keep everyone in line. From what I have pieced together so far, the Enforcer is different from the Recruiter. The Recruiters are just that. They recruit new members. So again you won't be expected to lead anyone down the wrong path. Interested?"
"Yeah, I'm interested." The thought of kids being put on the street to 'work' always bothered Danny. An opportunity to try and stop even some of it was one reason he was a cop.
"Sending you into this operation isn't something I'm comfortable with at all. It will be an extremely dangerous operation. But on the flip side - you have the look, the smarts and my trust. I need someone I can depend on when it comes to acting independently. If you don't want to do this...I can't tell you how happy it would make me."
"Happy but disappointed at the same time huh? I'll do it, otherwise I would be disappointed in myself."
It took only two weeks to set up Danny's credentials. It was decided that he would contact Steve through a private number diverted to 5-0 in case any calls were traced. Sitting in Steve's office, Danny was quizzed once again on his identity. "Your name is Danny Simmons, you're 19 and from New York."
"My name is Danny Gardner and I'm 20...well I will be in two months. I'm from the city of Angels....not New York. Get it right!" Danny corrected with an attitude.
"I stand corrected," Steve replied, sarcastically playing the game. "Your parents were divorced then your mother died from alcohol abuse and your father is no where to be found. Your grandfather supports your financial habit and you only call him when you want something! He deems you an embarrassment. Can't understand why?" Steve said with a laugh. "Why Hawaii, Danno?"
"I'm not your Danno...OK cop!" Danny spat back. "I have my rights! So leave me alone!"
Steve knew that Danny was as ready as he could ever be. He wished Danny would back out, he wished he could order him to back out. But Steve knew this was the nature of their job.
"Why Hawaii, DANNO?" Steve emphasized his name.
"I went to UCLA and decided I wanted a new kind of action. I hear the Islands are profitable if you get in on the ground floor." Danny volunteered.
Satisfied, Steve stood and patted Danny on the back. "Please be careful my friend. When you place your calls, they will be answered by your dear grandfather or a member of his staff just in case. We won't start talking 'cop' until you do. If you ever have someone near, ask about or refer to Steve. If you are in trouble and need us to come in, tell me your tuition isn't being paid."
"When do I go under?"
"You start school next week. I would prefer your hair a little longer, but if anyone should say anything tell them your grandfather wouldn't give you money unless your hair was short." Steve replied with a grin.
With the information collected from the two teenagers in police custody, a name was provided as a contact for the ring. Supposedly the college student was an Enforcer in the prostitution ring and thought to be connected to whoever was running it locally. Robin Kiealu was 6' even and built. Danny's classes were almost identical to Kiealu's, which would afford several opportunities for Danny to 'meet' him. Steve insisted that at least one class be different in order to throw off any immediate suspicions.
One look at Kiealu and Danny felt he looked the part of a true thug. Having had more than his fare share of run-ins with his type, Danny knew exactly how he needed to act to draw this guy's attention.
Danny made sure Kiealu saw only minor glimpses of him. He wanted Kiealu to notice him, but not before the time was right. When the time finally came Danny contacted Steve for a volunteer. He wanted someone young looking with plenty of muscles. Danny surfed with a kid who had approached him many times about what it took to get into HPD. He had mentioned in their last competition that he had signed up for the Police Academy. Danny asked Steve to approach him about a taste of undercover work.
When Keith Pi'lui got the call from McGarrett he jumped at the opportunity to help 5-0. To be on the safe side, Steve decided it would be important for Keith to have a cover set up for him as well. He didn't want Danny's cover blown over something minor. Since Steve didn't believe that Keith's background would be checked as thoroughly as Danny's, it took less than a week to set him up. Steve briefed the young HPD hopeful and was satisfied that he could pull off the physical confrontation easily.
Keith stood close to Robin Kiealu and his 'group' after class that following day. As Danny approached, Keith made a comment about the haole with curly hair. Danny walked up to Keith and stared at him briefly. As a smile slowly crept to Danny's face he hauled off and hit him. Keith faked a direct hit and pulled his hands up to his face, acting as if he were in sheer agony and muttering curses as he moaned. The fact that he could actually feel how close the punch came added to the look of shock.
Danny shook his hands as if he had actually made contact. He stared at Kiealu and his group as if to dare anyone to speak or make a move and then walked away without a word. Kiealu looked at Keith and laughed, then moved on to his next class.
"So what's the beef with your friend?" Kiealu asked Danny the next day in class. Danny stared at him as if trying to decide why he would want to talk to Kiealu. "No bad vibes here man!" Kiealu replied smiling raising his arms halfway up. "Just impressed with your moves, that's all."
Danny shook his head and cut his eyes at Kiealu. "No beef man, just a bad mood." Danny made eye contact with Kiealu and began to walk away.
"Wait up man!" Kiealu said as he reached out for Danny's arm. Danny gave him a sharp look as he roughly pulled his arm away. "Hey, it's cool dude!" Kiealu said laughing as he backed off. "I just thought we could connect, you know. I can use a man with your talent. Robin Kiealu is the name." Kiealu smiled as he held his hand out to Danny as if in an arm wrestling stance.
Staring Kiealu down, Danny hesitated and looked at Kiealu's hand. "It's the Hawaiian way man." Danny Williams knew this, but Danny Gardner would not. Thankful he recognized the Hawaiian tradition before he acted on impulse, Danny reached out and allowed Kiealu to lead in the handshake.
"Danny Gardner. What do you mean you can use my talent?" Danny asked as if he was still monitoring his space.
"You look like a man who might like the type of job I have to offer."
'GOTCHA!' Danny thought doing his best to stay calm. He decided it was time to show the slightest bit of interest...but not much. "And what type of job is that?"
"In time my new friend. How about we do some talking after school?"
"If you want to check me out just say so. I'm not into this cop and spy stuff."
Once again Kiealu smiled. "Your cool man. Talent and smarts...only don't be too smart," Kiealu warned.
Danny had been informed that his idea with Keith worked perfectly. Kiealu's group wasted no time checking out Danny Gardner. It took a little time though - Steve didn't want it to be too easy for them to get info on Danny's alias. After they were satisfied with the report, Kiealu contacted Danny and he was taken to meet the man over the entire Hawaiian operation. Danny wasn't surprised they took him to meet the "head man" so soon. Though the operation was growing quickly, he got the impression that it was still small enough that the boss wanted to meet all his new players before they were inducted into his organization. He also knew that if they hadn't accepted his cover he wouldn't have gotten this far.
An old abandoned warehouse in the back country of Oahu was the location for Danny's introduction to Dale Price. In his early 40's, Price was of Caucasian/Hawaiian decent and close to Danny's height but very skinny. Despite his name, his dark hair and eyes strongly revealed the Hawaiian side of his heritage. He carried himself as a man unafraid and in charge, with a street smart savvy. Danny guessed he was probably an alumni of the University from the way Kiealu had talked. Price's speech revealed an intelligence that confirmed Danny's suspicions. He could easily see why Brighton had confidence in Price running an operation like this. If Danny couldn't find a way to stop him, he had no doubt that Price could become a major crime force in Hawaii. One they would all regret having to reckon with if he wasn't stopped soon.
"Well Mr. Gardner," Dale extended his hand to shake Danny's. "I've heard you know how to handle yourself in a fight. How are you in other situations?"
"In other situations?" Danny realized to get anywhere with this man, he would need to be close to the same type of personality Price was. The others around him were not smart enough to catch on to his sudden personality change. He also figured Price was so impressed with himself that it couldn't fail.
"Yes, other situations. Are you able to handle yourself in the same manner in other situations?"
"Actually, I prefer to use other methods. I'm not a violent person and I despise it in others." Danny replied looking over Dale's shoulder to the Enforcers he brought with him.
Amused, Dale was pleased that Danny wasn't intimated by his show of force. He felt possibly, Danny could be the perfect man to oversee some of his operations. But first he would need to prove himself.
The phone and small efficiency apartment set up for Danny as part of his cover was screened daily for bugs by the 'cleaning lady'. One reason the apartment complex was appealing to Steve was the fact that most of the students living there paid an extra fee to the owner for minor cleaning. The students never saw the cleaning lady since they were in class during the time she came. So the fact that a new lady was being used went unnoticed. As for Danny, whenever the apartment was checked and cleared, a dish towel would be draped over the faucet in the kitchen. Even still, Danny always did a brief check on his own. 'Too many spy movies I guess,' Danny would think to himself as he did the check. Finally satisfied, he made the routine check in with Steve.
"I've been given my first job Steve." Danny reported, "it's a small one, mostly a test. Still, I think it's slightly different than what most of the Enforcers are asked to do."
"How so?" Steve asked as he played with the phone cord in his office.
"I was told to use my imagination on how to discipline one of the boys that is working the streets. Price thinks he's keeping some of his so called income."
"Do you have a feel for Price yet?" Steve asked hearing the disgust in Danny's voice.
"He's good Steve. Just Brighton's type, not the Kumu type at all. With his name, no way the Kumu would let him run anything! They like their organization to be run by what they deem to be pure Hawaiians." Danny switched ears as he reached for some of the fries he bought to serve as dinner along with the hamburger.
"So you're pretty sure it could be Brighton?"
"Well, not 100 percent. I'll know more in time. But since Brighton and Kumu were the only options you mentioned, Brighton is my guess."
"So how do you plan on handling your first assignment?"
"I'm not sure. I don't want to bully the kid into continuing prostituting, but then the only way to stop him is to either bust him or hurt him." Suddenly his food seemed cold and plastic. He had thought about this, but tried to avoid his feelings. Now that Steve asked, he knew the matter could no longer be averted.
"I have given some thought to it Steve. But what I have in mind could hurt my cover. I was thinking of intimidating the kid into giving me what was owed and then maybe you guys could bust him later for prostitution."
"Too risky Danno. Anything happens to this kid Price is going to be very suspicious. I know how you feel, but this kid can't disappear. We can't bust him and you can't pretend to hurt him." Steve hated the reality of having to let this kid continue selling his body on the street, but no way they could pick him up and Danny be effective. Besides, they would only give him another 'test' Steve could hear the disappointed tone in Danny's voice. This was Danny's first assignment and Steve wasn't sure if he should encourage him, let it go, or push him. 'I'm a cop and so is Williams, we deal with facts. I can't go holding his hand. I wanted him for this because I felt I could trust him....that's what I need to do.' Steve thought waiting for Danny to reply.
"I was hoping you wouldn't agree about it being too risky. I've already told Price I would meet this kid tonight. I'll get the money for Price and threaten the kid about holding out. Fortunately, being a guy, he probably doesn't make that much."
"Don't be so sure Danno," was Steve's warning.
Steve turned in his chair to face the open lanai after hanging up with Danny. He not only knew the disgust Danny felt, he understood it. Rubbing his eyes, Steve picked up his coffee cup and walked out on to the lanai. Hypnotized by the lights of the traffic in the evening sky, Steve felt a mixture of emotions regarding Danny. He was concerned for his safety and proud at the same time. Steve took one last sip of his now cold coffee and pondered the feelings he was experiencing. He was proud of his team and of 5-0, but he thought it odd that for some reason the pride he felt in Danny was more intense. Dismissing the pride for the fact that it was Danny's first undercover assignment, Steve allowed the foreign affection...but only for a little while.
Price was more than satisfied at how quickly Danny came down on their friend. "Robin called me after your visit with our little friend." Price was amused with the conversation he just had with Robin concerning Danny's performance. "He said the kid was still shaking...but not a mark on him. I think I'm wasting your talent on this petty stuff. I don't think enforcement is your only talent. How would you like to take a trip with me?"
Danny still felt as though he needed a shower. After coming down hard on that young boy, he felt like a pimp and would never be clean again. The kid looked to be barely a teenager and even went so far as to offer free sex if only Danny wouldn't hurt him. Every time Danny closed his eyes he could see the dirty face of a child cowering as if Danny would strike him at any second. He never even thought to strike the boy, Danny merely threatened to take away his drug source and the kid fell apart. Bringing his thoughts back to the present, Danny looked deeply into Price's eyes. He wanted this man out of Hawaii. What a disgrace he was. How dare he dishonor his home and heritage. And in such a vile and disgusting way at that. Danny thought of Joey Punana who had raised him as his own son. Of the pride and love he taught all his children regarding this land that was their home. "My bags are packed. Dale, I'm ready to do whatever it takes."
Price smiled as he mistook the passion in Danny's voice as solidarity to a common cause. He was pleased and felt he had Danny right where he wanted him.
Not long after his last meeting with Price, Danny received a note for him to drop out of school and close his lease on his apartment. School can never offer what I can...the note read. Danny immediately called Steve and read the note to him. "Sounds like we're ready Steve."
"Yes it does Danno. I'll arrange to meet you in the manager's office the day you plan to close your lease."
Steve had not seen Danny since he left for this assignment over a month ago. He was shocked when he walked into the manager's office. Steve couldn't hide his amazement at how much the part Danny looked. "Danno, if I didn't know better I would ask for your ID before I would even sell you bubble gum! You look like a teenager...and your hair...you ARE going hippy on me!" Steve exclaimed now laughing lightly.
"Tease all you want - but you won't believe how many dates I've gotten. You know I thought my hair would resemble an afro if I grew it out. But it seems like the longer my hair gets, the softer my curls are...and the girls love it!"
Steve couldn't resist after the "softer my curls" comment. He reached over and began to twirl a lock of Danny's hair with his finger. "See what you mean about the curls Danno. Exactly when are you working with all these dates?" Before he could finish he began to laugh. "Besides you already date more than any man I know, how can you handle more!?"
Giving Steve a mocked look of displeasure, Danny began laughing himself. "Thanks to 5-0 I don't get to date as much as I would like! Between my occupation and the hours, it's rough. Most women my age are anti-cop right now...the few who aren't are weary of my hours. Honestly though, right now my biggest problem is girls."
"You just said you were getting more dates...I don't follow you." Steve replied not believing the conversation he was having with his younger colleague.
"I'm not talking about women, I'm talking about girls...as in teenagers!"
"Legal or illegal ones?" Steve continued to tease.
"Both! But even the legal ones are so much younger than I am. It's really getting kind of scary."
Though he was still smiling Steve could see the toll this case was taking on the young man. He would be glad when it was over also. For some reason Steve felt a great deal of anxiety over Danny being out of touch and unreachable. At first he excused it because Danny was so young and this was his first undercover assignment. But all along he knew that wasn't the real reason. Shrugging off his thought pattern Steve decided it was time to get down to business.
"What's happening Danno?"
"Price wants me to go on a trip with him." Danny instantly saw the fear in Steve's face. "Don't get excited Steve. My cover is still solid. I think Price is ready to let me in on more of his operation."
"I don't know Danno. It's so fast. How can Price trust you so quickly?"
"I can't take all the credit. His sister has taken an interest in my career advancement. I think she's pretty involved in the operation."
Relaxing slightly Steve looked to his colleague and asked teasingly, "Is she one of the teenagers Danno...legal or illegal?"
"Very legal," Danny replied rising to the tease. "Actually Leilani Price is about my age give or take a year. I think she is well informed when it comes to her older brother."
Steve felt uneasy about Miss Price. He couldn't explain why, maybe he was afraid Danny would get involved with her.
"I know the implications Steve. I'm completely aware of the dangers Leilani Price can put me in. And I do mean ALL of them."
Steve was surprised that his thoughts were so readable to Danny. "I know Danno. I know you do." Steve replied in concession. "Just be careful. I'm not excited about breaking in new people at 5-0." With a deep sigh Steve picked up a folder from the desk, "We have a lot invested in this, you're done an excellent job!"
"I feel like it's taking too long Steve. I've been at this forever it seems like." Danny admitted to his boss.
"Just take it easy. An operation this size takes time and that's exactly what we have for a change. Don't rush anything, just keep doing what you've been doing. You start rushing things now, it could blow everything."
Danny nodded in agreement and started for the door. "Steve, I want these people. They have absolutely no regard for anyone or anything. Life means nothing to these people. I don't even think they care about their lives! Only money and power...that's the only thing of value to them. I just don't understand it."
Steve understood how Danny felt, he felt the same way. "I've thought about the people we deal with for many years. I finally came to the decision that if the day ever came that I do understand...then I've become one of them. Be thankful you don't understand Danno."
Danny wasn't surprised that a private helicopter waited to take them to their secret destination. Once on their way, Price admitted to Danny that the prostitution ring was a front to lead officials away from his real business. This came as no surprise to Danny. He suspected that drugs had to be Price's main game from the beginning. There was just too much money floating around. The prostitution angle alone couldn't make enough to afford the luxury of a helicopter and the numerous employees. It bothered Danny though, knowing that a drug operation could be so successful in such a short time.
Looking out of the helicopter, Danny was very familiar with the path they were taking. He knew all of the Islands like the back of his hand. He was aware that Price was watching him, so he did his best to appear as though he was trying to memorize his way. Smiling slightly Danny turned to Price and gave him a wink. "This is beautiful Dale. You've got the ideal setting for a harvest!" Danny knew Price's ego, so he tried to act enthusiastic. He also knew that marijuana might be part of what Price was pushing, but there had to be more. "What I don't get is if drugs is your game...well, pot isn't as profitable as others."
Enjoying the self imposed praise, Dale relished his next bit of news to share with his traveling companion. He thought of himself as an astute businessman and always liked the idea of having a protégé - all important businessmen had protégés. Dale thought from the moment he first laid eyes on Danny, he would be perfect for the job. He was young, eager to learn and appeared intelligent beyond his years. Even his sister seemed interested in Danny. The thought of having a brother-in-law directly under him only made the idea more appealing. His plan was to share the news with Danny after they toured his Big Island operation. He couldn't wait to share with the mainlander what Hawaii could do with the right person behind the wheel. In time he would reveal his whole agenda to Dan.
Price leaned back and smiled at the beauty of his plans. He thought about how carefully he had thought it out and how precisely it was all falling into place. Price knew once the operation was at its optimum, he would cut Karl Brighton out of the picture. He smiled at the thought of cutting Brighton out of his own operation. He had been looking for a way to finance his dream when Brighton came along. Having to find a quick way to start up his drug cartel in Hawaii, Brighton had to work fast. Price heard the police, more specifically Steve McGarrett, was hot on Brighton's tail and had found a way to get rid of him. So Brighton's deal with Price was cut without the usual time and care. It was the sweetest deal of Price's life and he would make sure it would be one Brighton would live to regret. However, until that appointed time, Price was sure to keep Brighton informed of everything going on. 'Well, most everything' Price thought to himself. He knew Brighton sent some of his soldiers to Hawaii and were watching. So Price was taking precautions to make sure his temporary boss would remain happy. At least until the time was right.
Danny couldn't believe his eyes when they landed at the Ho'omaka 'ana Youth Camp. It was the same juvenile facility Tommy was at. There was no need to fake surprise when he looked at Price with his eyes wide open.
Price laughed over his victory at surprising Danny. "It's a brilliant set up Danny...wait 'till you see!"
Not long ago Danny found himself involved with the juvenile system when Joey and Mei Punana, Danny's foster parents, took in a fifteen year old named Tommy Waipahe. The teenager had shot an HPD officer who later died from his wounds. Because of the facts surrounding the incident and the obvious corruption of the officer involved, Tommy was sentenced to only three years at the Ho'omaka 'ana Youth Camp. Though Danny hadn't been able to visit the facility yet, he did talk with the Director on occasion to check Tommy's progress and had written many letters as did all the Punana's. Tommy and Danny had their problems in the beginning, but by the time it was discovered Tommy was guilty of the shooting the two had become close. Danny even started to call Tommy by his chosen Hawaiian name, Kaeli'i, which only increased the admiration from the fifteen year old. 'I hope Kaeli'i doesn't see me...or that the Director recognizes my voice!' Danny thought as he and Price were being escorted to the Director's office. The fear of his cover being blown at such a critical point was disconcerting and Danny couldn't hide his uneasiness. Price on the other hand was enjoying every minute. He mistook Danny's nerves as being uncomfortable in a facility full of cops who could arrest him at any second! Danny knew what Price was thinking so he did nothing to try and hide his feeling. 'Man, but if he only knew the real reason!'
Director Kam Lee was a medium built man with a quick and pleasant smile. Danny knew from their conversations that he felt in his job it was imperative to have an appearance of authority, but also be approachable. "These kids have a chance and I want them to make the best of their time here," Lee had told Danny during one of their phone conversations. Danny liked the man and was happy that Kaeli'i would be under his care.
"Mr. Price, how good to see you again." Director Lee said as he stood from behind his desk extending his hand.
"Director Lee! May I introduce my colleague Daniel Gardner."
"Mr. Gardner, it is a pleasure!"
"Director." Danny acknowledged the Director with a handshake - concerned with the relationship between Price and Lee.
"Dan, the Director has worked with us from the beginning. Our efforts here have been successful and he has graciously extended our project indefinitely," Price gushed as if the Director was doing some great thing.
"Actually, Mr. Price came to me with his idea almost a year ago. I liked it from the beginning but wasn't sure how enthusiastic our young men would be. But we've found that the ones involved in the project have been so dedicated to it, that I don't have the heart to even think about pulling it!" Director Lee exclaimed.
The introductory meeting lasted only a matter of minutes. But it was enough time for Danny to realize Lee had no earthly idea who Price really was...or what was going on right in front of him.
Once out of the office the men went outside to the lush overgrowth of the tropical forest. Just a little beyond the beginning of the forest were several immense greenhouses. Each set up with various vegetation growth and various island flowers. Price took Danny into all of the greenhouses explaining the function of each one.
"Each greenhouse has at least six young men from the youth camp assigned to work and manage the greenhouse. It shows them the delicate balance of our vegetable and floral life on the island as well as gives them an opportunity to have some responsibility. These kids manage the greenhouses and are completely responsible for everything going on in each house." Smiling Price looked back at the still obviously confused Danny. "Of course they do it with my help. Camp monitors, which are guards...they call them monitors here, don't go inside of the greenhouses. They stay outside of them." Price explained then continued, "My idea to Director Lee was that the boy's needed to know this was all their accomplishments without adult interference. If they succeeded or failed, it was theirs. Besides, I assured the Director I would immediately inform him of any problems that needed the camp's intervention. He bought the idea, but didn't want the boys to go completely without supervision. So I suggested that camp monitors be placed directly outside each greenhouse."
"Dale, look...I don't know how to say this...but..."
"What does it have to do with you? Is that what you've been searching for since we got here?"
Walking to the very back of the largest greenhouse Danny decided to play the game. Price had something up his sleeve and was dying to tell Danny. But he wanted to build up to the excitement. "Dale, I know I haven't been with you long. But you're too good for this! What are you doing, growing pot in here or what?" Danny replied with a smirk on his face. He knew Price's ego needed stroking every now and then, and he wasn't beyond stroking it knowing he would win in the end.
"You're an excellent observer Danny! You're right, I am too good for this. And no, no pot here. The greenhouses are legitimate...they have to be. When the Director or anyone decides to tour our project, they see exactly what you see right now. Except, they are usually impressed!" Price replied as he led Danny through the greenhouse to the wall in the back. An unmarked camouflaged door was revealed after Price lifted up a rope mesh. Price nodded to Danny, so he opened the door and stepped inside to a room twice as large as the one he just left. Inside was one of the more sophisticated drug manufacturing sites he had ever seen.
"It's not the largest in the world I'm sure!" Price admitted still excited. "But I bet it'll be the most profitable!"
"And Director Lee?" Danny asked as he took the vast operation in.
"Not a clue! He has no idea. We hand pick the boys we want to work the greenhouse. To guard against any curiosity, we rotate the boys so they know how to work the greenhouses. But this is what they are really working on. We have six boys assigned to each greenhouse. Two boys from each greenhouse work as a team in here. We rotate the teams, so no one ever really gets to know each other. When we have visitors to the greenhouses, they don't miss anyone. But if we suspect they're counting boys or notice someone missing, we can have the boy present in seconds."
Danny faked his look of approval and appreciation to a genius plan, inwardly he wanted to hurry and try and make a connection to Brighton. "All these kids are in on it? How do you keep them in line? I mean it's not like they have anything to lose."
"They think most, if not all, the monitors and the Director are in on it," was Price's excited explanation. "We told them they are to never talk to anyone about it, not even with each other. If they do, they go to a real prison! Because of the teams they aren't sure which boys in the camp are involved and which ones aren't. Since they don't see all the boys running our plant, they have no idea who they can trust and who they can't! Since they're here, they know what the cops can do, so they're afraid of them and do their job without question. When they leave here, they continue to work for us. Those who can't cooperate after they leave become runaways and are never heard from again." Price was laughing by now. It was easy to see he truly enjoyed the power of being able to manipulate the lives of those around him. Danny felt as if he were going to be sick when Price interrupted his thoughts. "We get most of our kids from Family Services that are trouble makers but can be controlled. That way we have no family members to worry about and you don't have to worry about turning the kids toward trouble. They're already there!"
Danny could hear the alarms ringing instantly. The minute Family Services was mentioned, he thought about Tommy. 'Is it possible Kaeli'i could be involved with this group?' A sense of dread flooded Danny as he looked around trying in vain to see if he could spot Tommy while trying to look impressed instead of worried. Then suddenly another thought occurred to Danny. 'How did Price's group know what kids were with Family Services and didn't have families?' Turning his full attention to Price, Danny faked his enthusiasm as he decided the best line of questioning.
Sounding completely impressed by Price's boldness he asked, "Are you trying to tell me you have Family Services on your payroll!"
"Not Family Services Danny - HPD!" Price answered as if throwing his trump card.
For a few moments Danny was speechless. Price grew more excited with the look of disbelief and astonishment on Danny's face. He felt like a little child at Christmas time. It was all he could do to keep from jumping up and down clapping his hands in pure joy!
Danny could feel the blood in his body drain. 'HPD, involved! Oh, please no!' Finally finding his voice Danny asked hoarsely, " Dale, how in the world is HPD involved? Are you crazy?!"
Price easily accepted the praise he thought Danny was offering. There was no need for Danny to attempt at hiding his disgust at the thought of corrupt cops. Price's ego was so huge right now that he would have easily missed any expressions Danny may have possibly given away. In the meantime Danny's mind was quickly contemplating the possibilities surrounding HPD.
"I have a few loyal friends from HPD who alert me to possible future candidates from Family Services." Price freely offered. "These, friends, alert me and follow up to be sure they are willing participants. When the time is right...they come here!"
Price's sleazy smile was about to turn Danny's stomach. He figured out the rest easily after the recent experience with Tommy. Not wanting to let on what he knew, Danny faked his expression of confusion and intrigue.
"My HPD friends get the kids to do some minor cheating, then petty theft and gradually escalate them to more serious crimes. When the time is right the kids are busted and brought here. The bust is always a first time for the kids. We hand pick the kids who come to work in the greenhouses...of course we know who it will be before they get here!"
"How can you be so sure the kids will come here?"
"It's the most aggressive youth camp in Hawaii. The Director is an advocate for teaching and I haven't met a Judge yet who is willing to throw a kid away for a first offense without at least trying. Think of it Danny, the judicial system is supplying and securing the future of organized crime...and they will all work for me! Sometimes I want to laugh so hard at the irony that I can hardly stand it!"
Managing a fake chuckle for Price's benefit, Danny was amazed at how bold Price was...and at how easily everything fell right into place for him. Using the judicial system to recruit criminals was something 5-0 would never even think to look at. It would never cross their minds, at least not until it would have been too late.
"Who in HPD?" Danny asked dreading the answer.
Price sobered quickly. "There are some things you must not know. Don't feel bad Danny, I like you and you're going places in my organization. But not yet." Price patted Danny on the back and began to smile again as if to appease him. "Big plans Danny, I have big plans. And you are on the ground floor my new friend. These are exciting times, play your cards right and you will be rich beyond your wildest dreams!"