Mission Objective 1
The entrance loomed ahead of her. Max watched as the guard changed. Her plan had been derived and the first step would be to steel herself against the fear she felt. Once she entered those gates, she would be in their clutches. But, the only way her plan would work would be to convince Renfro of her loyalty to Manticore.
She left the cabin quite early that particular morning. She left her son well fed and sleeping and she left Logan equally sated and also sleeping. When she left, she was unsure 'when' she would be able to return. Now, standing close to the front gates, she was unsure 'if' she would return.
From the cabin, she traveled to Seattle. She entered Logan's apartment. It was undisturbed. She had only been there once while on Manticore's radar. She found the keys Logan had kept for her. Her Ninja, Logan kept it all these years. A bit dusty, but it should run. Then she traveled onto Cindy's apartment. Cindy, her only friend at the time, had taken Max into her life even after finding out Max was pregnant. She entered their apartment. There did not look to be a struggle, but there was a tape recorder on the table. Max hit play.
It was Cindy's voice. "Max, there is a gentlemen standing next to me. He says I must go with him. He says you will know where and that the sooner you get there, the better. Oh... Max, he has not hurt me."
The recording ended. Max could sense the nervousness in Cindy's voice. She had not been hurt. She was the lure for Max to return. Maybe there was a way to keep her safe. But she would have to hurry.
Max's thoughts returned to the present. 'The time is now, Max. No turning back or delaying.' Max emerged from the bushes. She walked nonchalantly down the middle of the road to the front gate. "Let me in boys!" she yelled.
Upon seeing her, weapons were drawn and aimed. Max counted five guards. "What's up boys? I know I am a bit late, but I never expected this much attention."
"Hands on your head X5-452."
She did as ordered and waited for the gate to open. She observed one guard in the office on the phone. Renfro was being informed of her arrival. "She is to be taken under guard to Renfro's office." The guard stated while emerging from the shack. Max's arms were bound behind her and she was escorted to the office of the director.
Alec and Anya watched from the practice field. "I don't know." Anya said. "She doesn't seem to be here against her will. She's not pregnant and maybe she doesn't mind being back."
"Anya, you are wrong. Renfro has her friend. She is here to save her friend. She is putting on an act for the guards."
"But how do we know that. Renfro won't let us in to talk to her."
"I know her Anya. Max will not willingly return here. She will not willingly stay here. She will save her friend and then, with our help, she will save the rest of us too."
"We'll see," muttered Anya before returning to her squad. _______________________________________________________________
Max entered Renfro's office and immediately stood at attention. "X5-452 reporting in. I would salute, but my hands are temporarily restrained, ma'am."
"Guard, remove the restraints and stand outside. I will call if I need you."
"Yes, Madam Director." The cuffs were removed and Max returned to attention.
"So, X5-452, you decided to return."
"Yes ma'am. You took my computer resource. I was close to my goal, but 'Eyes Only' has stopped making reports. Then, with my computer hacker gone, off the job... well... I realized that I needed to make a report and..." Max pauses then continues. "Look ma'am, I know I am in trouble. I should have returned months ago. I just got caught up in the job and lost track of the time."
"X5-452, where is the baby?"
"There is no baby ma'am. I miscarried about two weeks after I left here."
"Why were you in the hospital last week?"
"I started bleeding, I mean not like my normal cycle. The doctor said I had an ulcerated uterus. He told me that there was a foreign object that caused the bleeding. They removed it and it was sent to a lab. He never told me if the lab identified it. He said it could have been something calcified from the miscarriage. They replaced the blood I lost and I got out of there the same day."
"She calls you Max."
"Who ma'am? Oh... the girl. Yes, Ma'am. It seems inappropriate to use my designation when dealing with outsiders. I have used Max before."
"X5-452, do you understand you are in violation of standing orders and this lack of discipline will not go unpunished?"
"Yes, ma'am. I understand. May I ask the status of the outsider?"
"She has been quarantined within the isolation facility. She seems quite distressed. What is your interest with her well being?"
"Ma'am, as previously reported, she has been assisting in the search for 'Eyes Only.' She has developed a triangulation program, which will pinpoint the location of the signal operation. We need to test this program, but 'Eyes Only' has not reported in the last few days. She has no knowledge of Manticore or why I am looking for 'Eyes Only.' Ma'am, respectfully, if this outsider is not released, our progress will be set back at least a year and probably two."
"Two years? Explain this X5-452, you have only had this assignment for six months!"
"Yes, ma'am. But I was previously acquainted to the outsider. I did not have to spend a lot of time building up a relationship. I just had to reacquaint myself to her and rebuild her trust before I presented my request. If she is not released, I will have to find another programmer, wheedle my way into his life and redevelop programming. 'Eyes Only' is a big deal out there and there is not too many programmers that would willingly agree to locate him for just anyone."
"I see. So, you would recommend returning the outsider to Seattle?"
"At least, release her into Wilson City and she can find her way back from there. I can detail the information to her and send her on her way."
"You wish to talk to her then?"
"If I talk to her I can assure her that nothing is wrong. That my mistake and my misconduct have led to this situation. If I can assure her there will be no further disruption to her, I think she will agree to go home and continue her work for us."
"I must say, X5-452, your analysis has been quite forthright and detailed. You may speak to the girl. Give her the information she needs to get her from Wilson to Seattle. Assure her that your employer will no longer bother her. And, impress upon her the necessity of her continued efficiency in locating 'Eyes Only.'"
"Yes ma'am."
"Dismissed. When you leave, send the guard in." Max left the director's office. 'That went well, almost too well.' She made her way to the isolation barracks.
Upon Max's dismissal, the guard entered the office. Dr. Dunham also entered from a door in the back of the office. The director addressed the guard, "Return to the front entrance. When X5-452 leads the outsider to the gates, allow only the outsider to leave. Drive her to Wilson. Assign someone to follow her to make sure she returns to Seattle. If she does, then return to Manticore. If not, contact me when she settles. Absolutely do not let X5-452 outside the complex. Take her into custody as soon as the outsider leaves. Dismissed."
"Yes ma'am." The guard leaves.
Dr. Dunham sits with the director. Renfro is the first to speak. "Dr. Dunham, please give me your opinion."
"Yes, she seems detailed and focused on her task. Her regard for the outsider was merely task related. She showed no visible signs of a successful pregnancy." Then to himself, he thought, 'I was sort of hoping to see enlarged, milk engorged breasts on that mutant.' He shifted in the chair to hide the physical evidence of this last thought. "Director, I believe she is being truthful. But, I would recommend some follow up orientation to ensure the continued effectiveness of her programming."
"Doctor, I am not so quick to accept her story. I believe we should reorient her as well as implement measures to extract the truth. If she is truthful, her story will not change. If it changes, she will no longer be considered effective and it will be best to eliminate her."
"I will set up for her reorientation. We will begin as soon as possible."
"Before we do that, the team leaders must witness what happens when one of their kind disobeys standing orders. I will send her to you after that exercise."
Max made her way to the isolation unit. 'I must remain cool and disjoined when talking to Cindy. I hope she understands; they will be watching and listening.' Before entering, Max wrote up the map to Seattle from the nearby City of Wilson. On this page she wrote, 'Room 228.'
Some how she would have to explain this note to Cindy without being heard, or understood by Manticore. She made her way to isolation room #5. There was no tech in the control booth. This was good. Cindy had been there almost two weeks. They probably were not watching her full time anymore. From the booth, Max could see that Cindy looked OK. There were no visible signs of abuse, except for the fear that showed in her eyes. Hopefully, pretty soon, Max could get her out of here. Max would have to withstand recriminations for disobeying her orders to check in, but if her story did not change throughout the punishment, she might be trusted afterward and maybe then she could escape. 'Well, here we go.'
Cindy heard the door open. They hadn't talked to her in a few days. 'I wonder what they want now.' She hoped that Max was safe. She hadn't said anything about her, other than they were roommates. They had not tried to coerce any information, but she knew they could begin at any time.
The door opened and Max stood at the entrance. "Max!" Cindy ran over to her and enveloped Max in a hug.
She heard Max whisper, "Play along. Don't say anything unless I give you the lead. They will be listening and watching."
"Max, what is going on?"
"Cindy, this is a mix up. The escort meant to pick me up, but I guess he saw you first. It is really no big deal. You will be allowed to go back to Seattle."
"Mix up! I was taken from my home, brought God knows were..."
"Cindy calm down. As I said, you will be released and allowed to return. Please do not let this incident delay our project to find "Eyes Only.'"
Cindy looked at Max. 'Eyes Only' was her project that got her out of here in the first place. She must have told them they were working on this together. Maybe that would get them out of here. "Yes, I could continue the project. But will I be left alone? Should I expect to be disturbed again?"
"No, I have been assured that you will no longer be disturbed. As long as you continue our advancements."
"When do we get to leave?"
"I am going to send you on ahead of me. I made you this map to Seattle. There is a small town, Wilson, close by. You can pick up some transportation there." Max gave her a map, pointing to the note, 'Room 228.'
Cindy took the map. "We will not be leaving together? This is your project and I need your assistance to continue it."
"No. You are at a point now that will allow you to proceed without my skills. I have a number of duties here and I will meet up with you in a week or so."
Cindy understood that Max would not be able to leave with her. She knew to accept what Max was telling her. She was to go to Wilson, find a hotel room # 228 and maybe there was transportation available. "OK Max, then when do I get to leave?"
Cindy jumped as the door opened again. Director Renfro entered. Cindy folded the map and put it into her pocket. She tried to make it look nonchalant, but was unsure, with her nervousness, how it actually looked. The woman looked hard and cruel. Even though Max assured that she was leaving, looking at this woman made her think otherwise.
Max stood at attention when Renfro walked in. Renfro began talking in her sickeningly sweet tone of voice. "I hope my employee has adequately explained her mistakes and misconducts. I assure you, there will be repercussions that follow so this type of incident does not occur again. You will be free to return to Seattle, if that is your destination."
"Yes ma'am. I'm going back to Seattle. I am not much of a traveler, I do not stray too far from there."
"I hope you do not hold this inconvenience against us. It would be a shame if the project were to falter based on one employee's incompetence."
"Yes... of course... the project will go on. I hope it won't be too long before Max rejoins me."
"It won't be long. But, if not Max, I will send another of my trusted employees. I hope that will not be a problem."
"Of course not, but my b..., Max and I have some history. I would feel more comfortable dealing with her, although your other employees are probably equally competent, of course... I'm sure..." Then to herself, 'stop babbling Cindy and get out of here!'
"Very well, I will allow Max to escort you to the exit and you will be driven to Wilson. Again, I am very sorry for this disruption."
"Sure, ah... good bye..."
Renfro left and Max led Cindy out of the building. Max kept her voice low and head down while they walked. "Cindy, only one hotel in Wilson, key is in your pocket, I put it there while hugging you. More instructions under mattress."
"Max, where..."
"No questions here. All will be explained."
"Max, you can leave tonight, you could..."
Max interrupted. "No. I have to keep you and Logan and Zachary safe. Do as instructed, please."
Max looked directly at Cindy. Cindy knew that Max meant to sacrifice herself. Her eyes were the only indication of her emotional torment. Her demeanor was stiff and strict, but Cindy knew the turmoil going through her mind.
They walked to the front gate. "There is a vehicle waiting to transport you to Wilson. Good luck with your journey." Max held out her hand. Cindy grabbed her. "We will be looking for you Max. I know you will be following me soon. Thank you for saving me." Cindy whispered.
Max watched Cindy enter the vehicle and then watched as the jeep began its journey. Max reviewed her surroundings. There were at least four guns trained at her since her arrival at the gate. She knew the recriminations would begin soon.
The head guard advanced on Max as soon as the gates closed. "You are wanted in Leader Hall right now."
"Yes, I suppose I am." Leader Hall: Max remembers the meetings there. Squad leaders got together to discuss mission objectives and requirements and punishments. This was an area that leaders discussed training techniques and often were left alone out of sight and hearing of guards and directors. Max knew punishment would be the reason for her visit. Maybe, though if all went well there, she would not be subject to further punishment.
Upon entering, Max scanned those assembled. Director Renfro, guards, leaders... Alec. She saw him and made eye contact. He looked worried, maybe a reflection of how she felt. Max was led to the center of the room. Renfro began. "Squad Leaders, X5-452 has disobeyed orders to return or check in during her assignment. You may question her and then pronounce judgment and punishment. Your decisions will be honored." Renfro smiled. This process, although seemingly democratic, was a way to make the older soldiers think they were involved. Punishments were carried out as she ordered anyway and the leaders showed better planning and commitment after one of these sessions.
The questioning period began. "X5-452, what was your mission?"
"To find a computer hacker, 'Eyes Only,' then bring him in."
"What was your plan?" asked another.
"Use a computer hacker to find a hacker. I already had a contact so I reestablished communications, got agreement and reviewed the goals, developed a program and implemented it."
"You had six months so far to complete your mission, what went wrong?"
"It took longer than expected to convince my contact to help me with this. It seems "Eyes Only" is some kind of hero out there. They think he speaks the truth. I had to subtly establish doubt about 'Eyes Only' and then request assistance."
"What is the current progress of your mission?"
"We have established a triangulation signal tracking program. But, it can only be used when 'Eyes Only' is on the air. Coordinating that is a bit more difficult than previously imagined. His segments are random, short and within the last few weeks have been almost nonexistent."
"Why have you not reported?" The question came from a young X6 leader standing close to Alec. When she answered, Max could not help but look at Alec.
"The baby miscarried."
Her eyes spoke volumes. Alec felt for her at that moment. When she left, she felt her mission was to protect that baby at all costs. 'The baby miscarried.' The words came out sad and defeating. Alec saw her pain. The leaders near him saw this emotion as well. General murmuring spread through the group.
Renfro felt something change. Almost electrically, the emotions shifted. She must end this quickly. "The baby has nothing to do with your failure to report. You disobeyed a standing order. Leaders, this disobedience must be punished!"
Another leader, again near Alec spoke, "Her project progresses, the only disobedience is her report. She should be assigned an on-site team to lead. Her outside missions should be suspended for at least six months."
A general agreement flowed through the group. Renfro panicked. "Leaders, her mission was compromised due to her negligence. She should be reoriented."
Now was Alec's turn, "542, where are your loyalties?"
Max looked at Alec. 'He is baiting me. Something is happening, I must provide a strong, righteous front.' "I will abide by the decision of the leaders. I wish to continue my mission to completion, but will understand if that mission is reassigned. I will accept your word on my punishment."
"Then let the punishment stand as X6-521 has detailed."
Again a murmur of agreement rustled through the group. Renfro is now visibly angry. "No! That is not enough. She is lying and will be punished for her disobedience."
"I am not lying!" Max yells.
Renfro continues, "Guards, take her to medical. She will be reoriented. Everyone back to barracks." Renfro storms out.
While the leaders stand watching the scene, the guards surround Max. She looks around for a way out, but finds none. As the guards grab her, she struggles and feels the injection. Quickly, her head swims and her legs collapse. She is carried from the room. Only the leaders remain. Alec pounces on this opportunity. "She doesn't deserve this treatment. This is not the punishment we prescribed."
Another spoke up. "Is it ever? I was given one punishment from the leaders and a harsher punishment was applied. Has this happened to anyone else?" Most nodded, some voiced their agreement to the statement with a simple 'Yeah.'
Alec looked at Anya. It was happening. Years of training and oppression were being questioned. Max was the 'trigger' that they had discussed so many months ago. It was going to happen. "Leaders, Manticore has trained us to do their bidding, we are stronger and smarter than all the guards they employ. We can use this to free ourselves from their tyranny." Alec surveyed the room for agreement and was stunned to realize that they agreed and were looking at him to lead the cause. "I have a plan, but need everyone's assistance. Are you in?"
Someone yelled, "Let's do it!" And the group cheered. When they settled down, Alec reviewed the plan and gave assignments. Each leader was responsible for a task and for making sure their team was dislocated from the base. When the leaders left all felt energized and determined.
Alec's only worry, "Would all still agree by midnight tonight?" ________________________________________________________________
Cindy had reached Wilson and found the hotel. As Renfro stated, the guard dropped her off in the middle of Wilson, Wyoming. She walked around a while. She had to do what Max told her. She had to find the hotel. Then she saw the Ninja, Max's cycle. There was the hotel. She walked in and moved to the second floor and found the room, 228. The key fit and the door opened. Cindy went immediately to the mattress. She found keys to the Ninja, some cash and a note. She opened the note and read:
'Cindy, Please take all precaution when leaving this room. It was paid in cash, so leave the key and do not attempt to check out. They will figure it out. Hopefully you have already found your transportation. Be good to her. You will probably be followed. Make it look like you are stealing the bike. Go to Seattle. They are hoping you will lead them to Zachary. My plan is to tell them I miscarried. I can still lie with all sincerity, so I am hoping they buy it. Do not attempt to contact Logan or leave Seattle for at least a month. Then, move from town to town to try to shake any tail. I left a map to Logan's under your mattress in Seattle. When you see him, tell him that I said, "Mission Objective 1 is complete and successful." He will understand. When I left him, I had all intentions and the determination to return. As I get closer to Manticore, I find myself thinking that my return will not be so easy. So, take care of Zachary and Logan for me. No matter what happens, you all will always be a part of me. Keep me in your thoughts and hope for a quick return. Please burn this note and all evidence before you leave. Love, Max.'
Cindy found herself crying as she read the note. 'This is not over. Max will get out. We will be together again. But enough, crying won't get this over any quicker.' Cindy wipes her eyes and replaces the tears with determination. 'I am going home now.' She exited the hotel and proceeded to "steal" the Ninja. She rode out of town and returned to Seattle.
The entrance loomed ahead of her. Max watched as the guard changed. Her plan had been derived and the first step would be to steel herself against the fear she felt. Once she entered those gates, she would be in their clutches. But, the only way her plan would work would be to convince Renfro of her loyalty to Manticore.
She left the cabin quite early that particular morning. She left her son well fed and sleeping and she left Logan equally sated and also sleeping. When she left, she was unsure 'when' she would be able to return. Now, standing close to the front gates, she was unsure 'if' she would return.
From the cabin, she traveled to Seattle. She entered Logan's apartment. It was undisturbed. She had only been there once while on Manticore's radar. She found the keys Logan had kept for her. Her Ninja, Logan kept it all these years. A bit dusty, but it should run. Then she traveled onto Cindy's apartment. Cindy, her only friend at the time, had taken Max into her life even after finding out Max was pregnant. She entered their apartment. There did not look to be a struggle, but there was a tape recorder on the table. Max hit play.
It was Cindy's voice. "Max, there is a gentlemen standing next to me. He says I must go with him. He says you will know where and that the sooner you get there, the better. Oh... Max, he has not hurt me."
The recording ended. Max could sense the nervousness in Cindy's voice. She had not been hurt. She was the lure for Max to return. Maybe there was a way to keep her safe. But she would have to hurry.
Max's thoughts returned to the present. 'The time is now, Max. No turning back or delaying.' Max emerged from the bushes. She walked nonchalantly down the middle of the road to the front gate. "Let me in boys!" she yelled.
Upon seeing her, weapons were drawn and aimed. Max counted five guards. "What's up boys? I know I am a bit late, but I never expected this much attention."
"Hands on your head X5-452."
She did as ordered and waited for the gate to open. She observed one guard in the office on the phone. Renfro was being informed of her arrival. "She is to be taken under guard to Renfro's office." The guard stated while emerging from the shack. Max's arms were bound behind her and she was escorted to the office of the director.
Alec and Anya watched from the practice field. "I don't know." Anya said. "She doesn't seem to be here against her will. She's not pregnant and maybe she doesn't mind being back."
"Anya, you are wrong. Renfro has her friend. She is here to save her friend. She is putting on an act for the guards."
"But how do we know that. Renfro won't let us in to talk to her."
"I know her Anya. Max will not willingly return here. She will not willingly stay here. She will save her friend and then, with our help, she will save the rest of us too."
"We'll see," muttered Anya before returning to her squad. _______________________________________________________________
Max entered Renfro's office and immediately stood at attention. "X5-452 reporting in. I would salute, but my hands are temporarily restrained, ma'am."
"Guard, remove the restraints and stand outside. I will call if I need you."
"Yes, Madam Director." The cuffs were removed and Max returned to attention.
"So, X5-452, you decided to return."
"Yes ma'am. You took my computer resource. I was close to my goal, but 'Eyes Only' has stopped making reports. Then, with my computer hacker gone, off the job... well... I realized that I needed to make a report and..." Max pauses then continues. "Look ma'am, I know I am in trouble. I should have returned months ago. I just got caught up in the job and lost track of the time."
"X5-452, where is the baby?"
"There is no baby ma'am. I miscarried about two weeks after I left here."
"Why were you in the hospital last week?"
"I started bleeding, I mean not like my normal cycle. The doctor said I had an ulcerated uterus. He told me that there was a foreign object that caused the bleeding. They removed it and it was sent to a lab. He never told me if the lab identified it. He said it could have been something calcified from the miscarriage. They replaced the blood I lost and I got out of there the same day."
"She calls you Max."
"Who ma'am? Oh... the girl. Yes, Ma'am. It seems inappropriate to use my designation when dealing with outsiders. I have used Max before."
"X5-452, do you understand you are in violation of standing orders and this lack of discipline will not go unpunished?"
"Yes, ma'am. I understand. May I ask the status of the outsider?"
"She has been quarantined within the isolation facility. She seems quite distressed. What is your interest with her well being?"
"Ma'am, as previously reported, she has been assisting in the search for 'Eyes Only.' She has developed a triangulation program, which will pinpoint the location of the signal operation. We need to test this program, but 'Eyes Only' has not reported in the last few days. She has no knowledge of Manticore or why I am looking for 'Eyes Only.' Ma'am, respectfully, if this outsider is not released, our progress will be set back at least a year and probably two."
"Two years? Explain this X5-452, you have only had this assignment for six months!"
"Yes, ma'am. But I was previously acquainted to the outsider. I did not have to spend a lot of time building up a relationship. I just had to reacquaint myself to her and rebuild her trust before I presented my request. If she is not released, I will have to find another programmer, wheedle my way into his life and redevelop programming. 'Eyes Only' is a big deal out there and there is not too many programmers that would willingly agree to locate him for just anyone."
"I see. So, you would recommend returning the outsider to Seattle?"
"At least, release her into Wilson City and she can find her way back from there. I can detail the information to her and send her on her way."
"You wish to talk to her then?"
"If I talk to her I can assure her that nothing is wrong. That my mistake and my misconduct have led to this situation. If I can assure her there will be no further disruption to her, I think she will agree to go home and continue her work for us."
"I must say, X5-452, your analysis has been quite forthright and detailed. You may speak to the girl. Give her the information she needs to get her from Wilson to Seattle. Assure her that your employer will no longer bother her. And, impress upon her the necessity of her continued efficiency in locating 'Eyes Only.'"
"Yes ma'am."
"Dismissed. When you leave, send the guard in." Max left the director's office. 'That went well, almost too well.' She made her way to the isolation barracks.
Upon Max's dismissal, the guard entered the office. Dr. Dunham also entered from a door in the back of the office. The director addressed the guard, "Return to the front entrance. When X5-452 leads the outsider to the gates, allow only the outsider to leave. Drive her to Wilson. Assign someone to follow her to make sure she returns to Seattle. If she does, then return to Manticore. If not, contact me when she settles. Absolutely do not let X5-452 outside the complex. Take her into custody as soon as the outsider leaves. Dismissed."
"Yes ma'am." The guard leaves.
Dr. Dunham sits with the director. Renfro is the first to speak. "Dr. Dunham, please give me your opinion."
"Yes, she seems detailed and focused on her task. Her regard for the outsider was merely task related. She showed no visible signs of a successful pregnancy." Then to himself, he thought, 'I was sort of hoping to see enlarged, milk engorged breasts on that mutant.' He shifted in the chair to hide the physical evidence of this last thought. "Director, I believe she is being truthful. But, I would recommend some follow up orientation to ensure the continued effectiveness of her programming."
"Doctor, I am not so quick to accept her story. I believe we should reorient her as well as implement measures to extract the truth. If she is truthful, her story will not change. If it changes, she will no longer be considered effective and it will be best to eliminate her."
"I will set up for her reorientation. We will begin as soon as possible."
"Before we do that, the team leaders must witness what happens when one of their kind disobeys standing orders. I will send her to you after that exercise."
Max made her way to the isolation unit. 'I must remain cool and disjoined when talking to Cindy. I hope she understands; they will be watching and listening.' Before entering, Max wrote up the map to Seattle from the nearby City of Wilson. On this page she wrote, 'Room 228.'
Some how she would have to explain this note to Cindy without being heard, or understood by Manticore. She made her way to isolation room #5. There was no tech in the control booth. This was good. Cindy had been there almost two weeks. They probably were not watching her full time anymore. From the booth, Max could see that Cindy looked OK. There were no visible signs of abuse, except for the fear that showed in her eyes. Hopefully, pretty soon, Max could get her out of here. Max would have to withstand recriminations for disobeying her orders to check in, but if her story did not change throughout the punishment, she might be trusted afterward and maybe then she could escape. 'Well, here we go.'
Cindy heard the door open. They hadn't talked to her in a few days. 'I wonder what they want now.' She hoped that Max was safe. She hadn't said anything about her, other than they were roommates. They had not tried to coerce any information, but she knew they could begin at any time.
The door opened and Max stood at the entrance. "Max!" Cindy ran over to her and enveloped Max in a hug.
She heard Max whisper, "Play along. Don't say anything unless I give you the lead. They will be listening and watching."
"Max, what is going on?"
"Cindy, this is a mix up. The escort meant to pick me up, but I guess he saw you first. It is really no big deal. You will be allowed to go back to Seattle."
"Mix up! I was taken from my home, brought God knows were..."
"Cindy calm down. As I said, you will be released and allowed to return. Please do not let this incident delay our project to find "Eyes Only.'"
Cindy looked at Max. 'Eyes Only' was her project that got her out of here in the first place. She must have told them they were working on this together. Maybe that would get them out of here. "Yes, I could continue the project. But will I be left alone? Should I expect to be disturbed again?"
"No, I have been assured that you will no longer be disturbed. As long as you continue our advancements."
"When do we get to leave?"
"I am going to send you on ahead of me. I made you this map to Seattle. There is a small town, Wilson, close by. You can pick up some transportation there." Max gave her a map, pointing to the note, 'Room 228.'
Cindy took the map. "We will not be leaving together? This is your project and I need your assistance to continue it."
"No. You are at a point now that will allow you to proceed without my skills. I have a number of duties here and I will meet up with you in a week or so."
Cindy understood that Max would not be able to leave with her. She knew to accept what Max was telling her. She was to go to Wilson, find a hotel room # 228 and maybe there was transportation available. "OK Max, then when do I get to leave?"
Cindy jumped as the door opened again. Director Renfro entered. Cindy folded the map and put it into her pocket. She tried to make it look nonchalant, but was unsure, with her nervousness, how it actually looked. The woman looked hard and cruel. Even though Max assured that she was leaving, looking at this woman made her think otherwise.
Max stood at attention when Renfro walked in. Renfro began talking in her sickeningly sweet tone of voice. "I hope my employee has adequately explained her mistakes and misconducts. I assure you, there will be repercussions that follow so this type of incident does not occur again. You will be free to return to Seattle, if that is your destination."
"Yes ma'am. I'm going back to Seattle. I am not much of a traveler, I do not stray too far from there."
"I hope you do not hold this inconvenience against us. It would be a shame if the project were to falter based on one employee's incompetence."
"Yes... of course... the project will go on. I hope it won't be too long before Max rejoins me."
"It won't be long. But, if not Max, I will send another of my trusted employees. I hope that will not be a problem."
"Of course not, but my b..., Max and I have some history. I would feel more comfortable dealing with her, although your other employees are probably equally competent, of course... I'm sure..." Then to herself, 'stop babbling Cindy and get out of here!'
"Very well, I will allow Max to escort you to the exit and you will be driven to Wilson. Again, I am very sorry for this disruption."
"Sure, ah... good bye..."
Renfro left and Max led Cindy out of the building. Max kept her voice low and head down while they walked. "Cindy, only one hotel in Wilson, key is in your pocket, I put it there while hugging you. More instructions under mattress."
"Max, where..."
"No questions here. All will be explained."
"Max, you can leave tonight, you could..."
Max interrupted. "No. I have to keep you and Logan and Zachary safe. Do as instructed, please."
Max looked directly at Cindy. Cindy knew that Max meant to sacrifice herself. Her eyes were the only indication of her emotional torment. Her demeanor was stiff and strict, but Cindy knew the turmoil going through her mind.
They walked to the front gate. "There is a vehicle waiting to transport you to Wilson. Good luck with your journey." Max held out her hand. Cindy grabbed her. "We will be looking for you Max. I know you will be following me soon. Thank you for saving me." Cindy whispered.
Max watched Cindy enter the vehicle and then watched as the jeep began its journey. Max reviewed her surroundings. There were at least four guns trained at her since her arrival at the gate. She knew the recriminations would begin soon.
The head guard advanced on Max as soon as the gates closed. "You are wanted in Leader Hall right now."
"Yes, I suppose I am." Leader Hall: Max remembers the meetings there. Squad leaders got together to discuss mission objectives and requirements and punishments. This was an area that leaders discussed training techniques and often were left alone out of sight and hearing of guards and directors. Max knew punishment would be the reason for her visit. Maybe, though if all went well there, she would not be subject to further punishment.
Upon entering, Max scanned those assembled. Director Renfro, guards, leaders... Alec. She saw him and made eye contact. He looked worried, maybe a reflection of how she felt. Max was led to the center of the room. Renfro began. "Squad Leaders, X5-452 has disobeyed orders to return or check in during her assignment. You may question her and then pronounce judgment and punishment. Your decisions will be honored." Renfro smiled. This process, although seemingly democratic, was a way to make the older soldiers think they were involved. Punishments were carried out as she ordered anyway and the leaders showed better planning and commitment after one of these sessions.
The questioning period began. "X5-452, what was your mission?"
"To find a computer hacker, 'Eyes Only,' then bring him in."
"What was your plan?" asked another.
"Use a computer hacker to find a hacker. I already had a contact so I reestablished communications, got agreement and reviewed the goals, developed a program and implemented it."
"You had six months so far to complete your mission, what went wrong?"
"It took longer than expected to convince my contact to help me with this. It seems "Eyes Only" is some kind of hero out there. They think he speaks the truth. I had to subtly establish doubt about 'Eyes Only' and then request assistance."
"What is the current progress of your mission?"
"We have established a triangulation signal tracking program. But, it can only be used when 'Eyes Only' is on the air. Coordinating that is a bit more difficult than previously imagined. His segments are random, short and within the last few weeks have been almost nonexistent."
"Why have you not reported?" The question came from a young X6 leader standing close to Alec. When she answered, Max could not help but look at Alec.
"The baby miscarried."
Her eyes spoke volumes. Alec felt for her at that moment. When she left, she felt her mission was to protect that baby at all costs. 'The baby miscarried.' The words came out sad and defeating. Alec saw her pain. The leaders near him saw this emotion as well. General murmuring spread through the group.
Renfro felt something change. Almost electrically, the emotions shifted. She must end this quickly. "The baby has nothing to do with your failure to report. You disobeyed a standing order. Leaders, this disobedience must be punished!"
Another leader, again near Alec spoke, "Her project progresses, the only disobedience is her report. She should be assigned an on-site team to lead. Her outside missions should be suspended for at least six months."
A general agreement flowed through the group. Renfro panicked. "Leaders, her mission was compromised due to her negligence. She should be reoriented."
Now was Alec's turn, "542, where are your loyalties?"
Max looked at Alec. 'He is baiting me. Something is happening, I must provide a strong, righteous front.' "I will abide by the decision of the leaders. I wish to continue my mission to completion, but will understand if that mission is reassigned. I will accept your word on my punishment."
"Then let the punishment stand as X6-521 has detailed."
Again a murmur of agreement rustled through the group. Renfro is now visibly angry. "No! That is not enough. She is lying and will be punished for her disobedience."
"I am not lying!" Max yells.
Renfro continues, "Guards, take her to medical. She will be reoriented. Everyone back to barracks." Renfro storms out.
While the leaders stand watching the scene, the guards surround Max. She looks around for a way out, but finds none. As the guards grab her, she struggles and feels the injection. Quickly, her head swims and her legs collapse. She is carried from the room. Only the leaders remain. Alec pounces on this opportunity. "She doesn't deserve this treatment. This is not the punishment we prescribed."
Another spoke up. "Is it ever? I was given one punishment from the leaders and a harsher punishment was applied. Has this happened to anyone else?" Most nodded, some voiced their agreement to the statement with a simple 'Yeah.'
Alec looked at Anya. It was happening. Years of training and oppression were being questioned. Max was the 'trigger' that they had discussed so many months ago. It was going to happen. "Leaders, Manticore has trained us to do their bidding, we are stronger and smarter than all the guards they employ. We can use this to free ourselves from their tyranny." Alec surveyed the room for agreement and was stunned to realize that they agreed and were looking at him to lead the cause. "I have a plan, but need everyone's assistance. Are you in?"
Someone yelled, "Let's do it!" And the group cheered. When they settled down, Alec reviewed the plan and gave assignments. Each leader was responsible for a task and for making sure their team was dislocated from the base. When the leaders left all felt energized and determined.
Alec's only worry, "Would all still agree by midnight tonight?" ________________________________________________________________
Cindy had reached Wilson and found the hotel. As Renfro stated, the guard dropped her off in the middle of Wilson, Wyoming. She walked around a while. She had to do what Max told her. She had to find the hotel. Then she saw the Ninja, Max's cycle. There was the hotel. She walked in and moved to the second floor and found the room, 228. The key fit and the door opened. Cindy went immediately to the mattress. She found keys to the Ninja, some cash and a note. She opened the note and read:
'Cindy, Please take all precaution when leaving this room. It was paid in cash, so leave the key and do not attempt to check out. They will figure it out. Hopefully you have already found your transportation. Be good to her. You will probably be followed. Make it look like you are stealing the bike. Go to Seattle. They are hoping you will lead them to Zachary. My plan is to tell them I miscarried. I can still lie with all sincerity, so I am hoping they buy it. Do not attempt to contact Logan or leave Seattle for at least a month. Then, move from town to town to try to shake any tail. I left a map to Logan's under your mattress in Seattle. When you see him, tell him that I said, "Mission Objective 1 is complete and successful." He will understand. When I left him, I had all intentions and the determination to return. As I get closer to Manticore, I find myself thinking that my return will not be so easy. So, take care of Zachary and Logan for me. No matter what happens, you all will always be a part of me. Keep me in your thoughts and hope for a quick return. Please burn this note and all evidence before you leave. Love, Max.'
Cindy found herself crying as she read the note. 'This is not over. Max will get out. We will be together again. But enough, crying won't get this over any quicker.' Cindy wipes her eyes and replaces the tears with determination. 'I am going home now.' She exited the hotel and proceeded to "steal" the Ninja. She rode out of town and returned to Seattle.