Chapter 3

Following the usual protocols, Jack made his way into the Ops Center, which was a hive of activity this morning. He was surprised as he entered to see Devlin along with Kendall, apparently both waiting for him to report in. He grimaced inwardly. He had never been particularly fond of Devlin.

Kendall looked uncomfortable. Devlin was scowling. Devlin stepped forward, but did not offer to shake Jack's hand. "Jack," he began, "we need to speak to you about the death of Steven Hadlaki. Please step this way." He stepped to one side, as if to usher Jack into the adjacent meeting room.

Suddenly very awake, Jack noticed with heightened senses the hush that fell over the busy room, as others glanced at him surreptitiously then quickly went back to their tasks. He felt, rather than saw, the four bulky FBI agents positioned behind him, blocking his exit. He had been ambushed, he concluded with rising anger. With an effort, he casually responded, "Of course," and followed Devlin into the conference room.

His feeling of betrayal was confirmed when his eyes swept the room. A table with 3 seats sat in the middle of the room. One chair sat opposite the table. They were leading him towards that chair now. In the corner sat Vaughn, looking miserable, along with Dr. Barnett, looking smug. The four FBI agents lined the walls.

Devlin, Kendall, and a 3rd man that Jack did not recognize sat down at the table as Jack sat down in the chair. The 3rd man leaned forward and began, "Agent Bristow, I am Mark Bates. I am a lawyer in the Justice Department and specialize in adjudicating complex national security cases. This is a preliminary administrative hearing into the death of Steven Hadlaki. Field investigation has linked you to his death. The proceedings will be taped. This panel will decide whether it is appropriate to pursue formal charges. Do you have any questions?"

None, thought Jack bleakly. It was pretty clear where this was going.