~Chapter 7 ~

Ashley had just changed clothes when her door flew open and Dana walked in clearly angry. "Where have you been?"

"Out." Ashley replied simply as she tossed her leather jacket into the trash making a mental note to get another one.

Dana fought to regain her composure. She was not used to people being so flippant when dealing with her. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, before continuing, "I would prefer you not go out alone."

"Why?" Ashley asked tired of Dana always telling her what she can and cannot do.

"There is a group of people after you and your safety doesn't seem to be of any concern to you."

Ashley contemplated telling her about the fight earlier with those same people, but she figured it would only prove Dana's point and she would never see daylight again. Instead she wanted answers. Their reaction was still bothering her. "What do they want with me?"

"You are different than most people Ashley. That in and of it self is reason to capture and study you in order to advance their own cause."

"Not so unique, as you recall Baldy has the same gift as I do."

"And where do you think he got it from?"

That sobered Ashley. Baldy had asked her something similar, although he seemed to imply their gift was a common bond not that one was responsible for the others ability. It was all giving her a headache. The only memories she could recall at this point, was a nasty fight with Baldy. Therefore, she was more apt to believe Dana. "Fine I will let you know before I go out, but I am getting really tired of sitting around here all day."

Two men arrived at her door carrying more meds, a folder and a wooden box.

Ashley raised her sleeve allowing Dana to inject the afternoon meds. "FYI, I don't think these meds are really helping." She cringed slightly as the needle was injected. Her memories weren't coming back quickly enough for her.

"Give it time Ashley. I am sure your memory will return. In the meantime I have a project that might help you." Dana smiled handing her a folder with names and photos.

"What's this?"

"There are a few photos from inside the facility where you were being held. I thought you would like to see the proof."

Ashley grabbed the items hungrily and began sifting through the photos of the brunette working in some sort of lab. She didn't recognize that … thing on her table.

"Another one of her creatures no doubt." Dana said looking at the photo.

Then Ashley saw Baldy carrying her in that same lab with the brunette following him. Another photo showed the woman with a needle in her arm. Ashley couldn't deny the proof in her own hands. As she continued through the photos she noticed three other men she had yet to meet that appeared in an alleyway meeting with the brunette. "And who are they?" Ashley asked showing Dana the photos.

"They are her associates we traced back to your kidnapping. They will be your first assignment. It's time you started back to work."

Ashley eyes clouded over with such fury, "And what exactly do I do."

Dana opened the box revealing a specialty gun. "Whatever needs to be done."

Ashley's eyes lit up as she retrieved the weapon and studied the design. She held it in her hands and it felt natural, even aiming it felt familiar. Ashley felt relieved to have something tangible to anchor her memories and exhilarated all at the same time.

"I thought you might remember that." Dana smiled.

Ashley studied the folder once again and noticed only a city name was listed. "How am I supposed to find them?"

"You have always been very resourceful in the past. I am sure you will learn again. These two men will be able to assist you."

"Fine by me, let's roll." Ashley said going to stand between the two men looping her arm around their elbows and then teleporting out.

A man appeared in the doorway after they left. "Are you sure she is ready for this assignment? It could prove disastrous."

"The meds will keep her from remembering and the men will assure her associates don't talk."

"It's a risky move."

"It's one I am willing to take. Now, how is your project coming along?" Dana asked, changing the subject.

"It is nearly complete. Our preliminary findings are proving to be accurate."

"That's wonderful." Dana smiled, knowing her goal was within reach.

"Unfortunately it has nearly depleted our remaining supply."

Dana looked at him worried, "Will you be able to complete the project?"

"Yes, but in smaller numbers than was originally planned."

"Once Ashley has completed her current assignment, we'll be ready." Dana said with a satisfied grin.

A/N: Thanks to my Beta readers that have read and reread the last few chapters! You guys are awesome!

Thanks to all those that are reviewing!!! I've enjoyed reading them!! This was a little shorter chapter, but I hope you enjoy it! :)