A/n: here is chapter three, hope you enjoy. Please read and review....let
me know if I should continue.....this is not going quite where I expected
it too.....
Entropy Pt 3
10:00am The Centre Sydney's Office
Sydney was at his desk transcribing notes from a previous session. But his thoughts were occupied elsewhere. Of late he had become more distracted and listless. He found it harder to lose himself in his work, most of which he thought was tedious and not worth his time. His eyes flicked over to the model in the corner and he sighed. He finally gave up any pretence of work, turned off the recorder, placed his pen on the desk and leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes and stretching his arms above his head.
"Ahh.umm..sorry Sydney.." Broots was shuffling uncomfortably in the doorway. "I have.those printouts are ready for you..are you ok?"
"I am fine Broots" a ghost of a smile touched his lips, "Just tired, that's all."
"Oh.oh that's good. Well I gotta be off." Broots eyes were looking desperately for something on the floor. "See ya round." He placed the folders on the desk and then made a scrambled getaway out the door.
"Wait a minute, Broots" but the Doctor was talking to the closing door.
Something was obviously up, and Broots didn't want to talk about it. Sydney hoped that nothing was wrong with Debbie. But he didn't think so. He suspected it was Centre business, and more specifically, business that affected him, or perhaps Miss Parker. Broots was always reluctant to hand over any information that he thought would hurt his friends, Sydney found this quality in him rather endearing. He frowned and reached for the phone and dialled Miss Parker's office, only to be informed by her secretary that Miss Parker was not in yet, and did not know here whereabouts, nor when she was expected back. A small tingle of alarm went of in Sydney's mind, but there was nothing to worry about yet. He then tried her home, only to get the machine. He put the phone down. The thought "Don't go looking for trouble, it will find you soon enough" ran through his head.
He was about to resume his transcribing when the phone rang. He looked at it and paused before answering. For that brief moment he felt the anticipation, the faint flicker of hope that it was Jarod calling. It had been a long time since he had heard from his former protégé, and Sydney was worried. Jarod had never before gone this long without calling. Sydney knew that he had called Parker, at least once, but he didn't think that he had been in much contact with her either. She had been acting strangely since her return from Carthis. Sydney knew that she was greatly disturbed by the revelations that he and Broots had discovered with respect to her family. However, Sydney didn't think that this was the only thing that was weighing on her mind. He had tried many times to talk to her about it, but she had kept her own counsel and refused to talk to him. Over the past few months she had become more withdrawn, and more openly hostile. Sydney did not doubt that whatever it was, it was also the reason behind Jarod's continuing silence. He closed his eyes and picked up the receiver.
"Hello, this is Sydney", his eyes opened and his shoulders slumped in disappointment. "Yes, I will be there in ten minutes"
A summons to The Chairman's office. The small anxiety that had started with Broots and then with Miss Parker stepped up a notch. I wasn't full blown yet, but Sydney had a bad feeling. A visit to the Chairman's office was never good. As he made his way to Raines' office, thoughts were racing through his head. He hoped Parker was ok, what was Broots hiding? Perhaps they had a lead on Jarod. He had reached the office and was ushered in.
"Sydney" Mr Raines wheezed.
"What can I help you with Mr Raines?" Sydney stood in front of the desk. From all outward appearances, he looked calm and collected. Nothing of his anxiety showed on his face.
"Sit down." Raines gestured to a chair.
Sydney's anxiety went up another notch. Raines had a satisfied look on his face, and what would pass for a smile. As Sydney lowered himself into the chair, his heart sank. Whatever it was, it was not going to make Sydney happy.
"It has been a while since we have talked..How are things going in the sim labs?"
Sydney knew for certain now. It was bad. Raines had no interest in Sydney's work and was just enjoying playing with him. But Sydney was an old expert at playing these kinds of games.
"Well sir, as you know, everything is going according to schedule. Unfortunately, we have had no remarkable results. Everything is in my reports. It is my estimation that this line of research is a waste of time and resources."
"Yes. I have come to the same conclusion... I have a new project for you to start..Be ready in a few days." he had to pause. He drew in a few very heavy breaths. He sounded like a man that was drowning. But he could not keep the excitement out of his face or voice.
Sydney waited patiently to be punched in the gut with whatever news was about to hit him.
"What new project would that be?"
Raines' smile made Sydney's heart miss a beat. All of a sudden it was hard to breathe and he knew it before Raines even opened his mouth.
"We have Jarod!" The satisfaction was nauseating. Raines was watching Sydney very carefully.
Sydney was glad he was sitting down. He surely would have fallen. His mind screamed "no", silencing that tiny spark that was still buried. That tiny voice that yearned to have Jarod back, yearned to be back at the most rewarding work of his life. He sat there staring dumbly at Raines, unable or unwilling to process the information.
"I knew how happy you would be.. and I wanted to tell you... in person". Raines was enjoying this moment. It had been too long in coming. Under his leadership, he would get The Centre back on track. He was pleased with Lyle's plan to keep Jarod under control and cooperative, and if it destroyed Sydney in the process, well so much the better.
He watched with undisguised glee as the other man tried to pull himself together. Raines had to admire the effort Sydney was putting in. Sydney's self-control was quite remarkable. He just could not wipe the grin off his face today.
"When will I be able to see him?" Sydney was all business now.
"The jet should be back early this afternoon." now to stick in the knife "..But I am afraid you will not be allowed access for a few days."
Sydney was on his feet. "Why not..you know I am the best qualified to handle Jarod. You.."
"Calm down." He interrupted. Sydney had reacted exactly the way Raines had expected. ".You will get your chance...but first we have to see to security...and other matters." Raines then went to pick up the phone.
"You are dismissed" he wheezed as an afterthought without even looking at Sydney.
Sydney's eyes bored into the top of Raines bald head, and getting no response, he stormed out of the office. The one thought on his mind was to find Broots.
Raines was on the phone organising the last minute details. He had to ensure that Jarod did not get away again. Mr Parker had always been very complacent in this, he felt. But Raines was a patient man, accustomed to long-term projects. The work on SL-27 was not yet complete, but would do nicely to house their escapee, permanently. The rest of the work would progress on schedule. He did not think that the return of Jarod should upset their timetable at all. Jarod might even be able to help speed things along. He chuckled to himself at that thought. He was very pleased at Sydney's reaction. Sydney had always been so predictable, so easy to manipulate. Raines knew that Sydney had been an impediment to the ongoing pursuit of Jarod, but now he was going to be his biggest asset. The irony was delicious. He had every confidence in both his son and Mr Cox. The phone rang and got back to the business of organising for the prodigal son's return.
As Sydney was making his way to the tech room, he forced himself to calm down. He needed a cool head, he needed to think. This explained both Broots' nervousness, and Miss Parker's absence. He did not believe that Parker really would bring Jarod in. Over the years he had watched her soften, become less like her father, and more like her mother. Could he have misjudged her so badly? What had happened on that damned island? Did Jarod do something to turn her against him? He needed answers.
Broots was sitting at his computer and did not hear Sydney come in. Sydney grabbed his arm and spun the now terrified techie around.
"Why didn't you tell me?" he demanded.
Broots at least had the decency not to try to deny it.
"Sydney..I..I..Raines told me not...I'm sorry" he finished finally and hung his head.
Sydney gathered himself and took a steadying breath. "I am sorry. I know it is not your fault. I am just in shock. I can't be true. God, I am so angry I could kill that smug bastard."
"Sydney, calm down please" Broots was really afraid now. He glanced around furtively to see if anyone was watching them. "What did Raines tell you?"
"Only that they had Jarod. That they will be back sometime this afternoon. Please tell me what has happened, please tell me that it's a mistake."
Broots lowered his voice "Last night we got a hit on Jarod in northern California. I was running a diagnostic programme, one of my own actually." he saw Sydney's look."...well, it was just a fluke really, just dumb luck and I wasn't even sure it was Jarod. Well, it was Jarod, but .you know lots of people have first names that start... And right at that moment he turned up. I swear he has some kind of evil sixth sense. So I called Miss Parker and Mr Lyle and was about to call you..but Raines said not to ..so I waited till he left..and was about to call you..and you wont believe it...he called me to warn me not to tell you...Sydney...I...I really wanted to tell you...but..Raines.." Sydney put his hand on the younger man's shoulder. None of this was his fault.
"Broots, its alright. Now, can you tell me what's happening now?"
"I don't know... there have been new security arrangements...but they are separate from the main system. Independent...I don't know who's setting them up..but I do know where they are for.."
Sydney had that bad feeling again. Broots' voice dropped to a whisper "SL- 27"
"But that's impossible". Sydney's voice had also dropped.
"Sydney, c'mon, this is The Centre. Nothing is impossible. I would bet that's where they are gonna take him."
Sydney's mind was racing. "Broots, find out everything you can about SL-27. What have they done to it since the bombing. Someone, find out who Raines has put on this, has been busy down there. Find out everything. Access in and out, security, everything. But keep it quiet. Come only to me..."
"What about Miss Parker?" he interrupted.
"She can't know anything about this!" he snapped. He closed his eyes and tried to get hold of his rampaging emotions. "Broots, just lets keep this between us, for the moment. Please." With that he left for his own office. He needed some time to himself. He needed to think.
Broots was left standing in the room by himself. He could not remember ever seeing Sydney so upset. It was now obvious that they had caught Jarod. He sat down in his chair and picked up the photo of his daughter. "I'm sorry Jarod, I never wanted this." He stared at the photo in his hand, and fighting back the guilt, he went to work. He was sure that Sydney would want to help Jarod, and Broots would do anything that he could to help. But they would have to be very careful. It was much easier for Sydney, he really had nothing to lose anymore. Broots did not have that luxury. He placed the photo back and turned to his machine. It was time to go hunting. Just the name of SL-27 was enough to send him into the cold sweats. He knew this would not be easy. Whatever had been going on had been very covert. But he had an idea that Mr Lyle and Mr Cox would be a very good start. The two of them gave him the same feeling as SL-27. It wasn't much, but it was all he had.
Sydney was back in his office, resting his head in his hands. He felt sick with grief. He squeezed his eyes shut, but it did not stop the tears from falling. He allowed himself this time to weep, this time to grieve. Jarod would need him soon and Sydney could not afford to be handicapped by raw, uncontrollable emotions. He would do whatever it took, make whatever sacrifice was needed, but he would ensure that Jarod got out and that he would be safe, once and for all. After the worst of his emotions were spent, he went about organising all of his files, tying up all the loose ends. It helped pass the time and helped him clear his head. When Jarod came, there would be nothing to distract him. Sydney's focus would be absolute. Now all he could do was wait.
Sydney did not notice the blue eyes peering at him from the air vent. Angelo could feel the pain coming off Sydney in waves. He felt like he was drowning in it. It was so consuming that Angelo couldn't figure out what was wrong. The only thing he knew was "Jarod". Jarod was in some kind of trouble, maybe Jarod was dead. Angelo crept back through the maze that was his home, found his safe "space" and cried himself to sleep.
SL-27
Mr Cox was disappointed that he had not been invited on the company excursion to go collect their wayward Pretender, but things don't always go your way, and he still had much work to do down here. When Raines had taken command, he had ordered that his old playground be restored. Cox had no idea what kind of projects Raines had planned for down here, he didn't really care.
The last six months had seen extensive renovations. Secrecy had slowed down the progress somewhat, but it was almost done now. There had originally been over a hundred rooms, many of them small cells, but the bomb had gutted it. The room that would now house Jarod was at the far end of the twisting hallways, the last in a long string of cells. There was also an extensive sim lab, medical facilities, a gym which included a pool and a large shower block. Some residential quarters had been set up for staff if it was required. A large kitchen with enough stores to feed up to twenty people for two weeks if necessary. Both the power and security could be operated independently from the main system. At least a quarter of the space was empty, awaiting the completion of renovations. A single elevator now came down to this level and the old sewer access had been removed. The only way in, or out, was through the elevator shaft. The elevator only came down to this level with passcode access. And only himself, Raines and Lyle knew that passcode.
An extremely extensive system of cameras and infrared detectors had been placed throughout the entire sublevel. The system was not yet online, and this was one of the few remaining things Cox had to set up. This was not his usual area of expertise, but it was always good, he thought to himself, to stretch one's self.
The rest of The Centre did not know of its existence, or if they did, did not know that it had been resurrected. Cox was currently checking on the final security arrangements for Jarod's cell and the sim lab. Although he had never actually met the man, he knew what he was capable of. He had familiarised himself with Jarod's previous escapes from The Centre. He was confident that all that could be done to improve security had been done. The security on what he had come to think of as "his" level, was unprecedented. No-one, not even Jarod, could get out of here. Well, at least he hoped so, he had bet his life on it.
He finished his last inspection and headed for the elevator at the end of the hall. The anticipation was building in him now. He had been working with Lyle and Raines for months, planning for Jarod's eventual return, and now that the moment was nearly here, he almost couldn't believe it. He waited patiently for the elevator to descend, turning over the problems of ensuring Jarod's cooperation in his mind. The doors opened and he entered the car. He absently pushed the button that would deposit him on the same floor as Raines' office. He smiled to himself. He hoped Jarod didn't break too easily.
The Centre Jet, 20 minutes out of Blue Cove
Jarod was struggling back to consciousness very slowly. He had been having the most horrendous nightmare, even by his standards. Miss Parker had found him, and he was trapped. He was trying to run, in a complete state of panic now, and she had shot him. As he was thrown forward, landing heavily on the ground, all he could think was "No, she wouldn't kill me." As he tried to shrug off the nightmare, the first thing he was aware of was the enormous sense of relief. It was just a dream! Parker would never shoot him. The next sense to hit him was pain, and it was absolute. He hurt everywhere. His chest and wrists were on fire, and he felt like he had been stabbed in the small of his back. His shoulder, legs and face also hurt, but to a lesser degree. He could hardly breathe. He was nearly fully conscious now, and he opened his eyes and saw nothing but black. He tried to move and found that he couldn't. Panic hit him full force. His already laboured breathing become more difficult and he began to hyperventilate, sucking in shallow rapid breaths.
"Calm down Jarod. There is no need for you to worry, you are among friends", Jarod could hear the smile in the voice and he felt sick. All the fight went out of him. He forced himself to relax, he had to get control of his breathing.
"Lyle", it was only a whisper.
"See Willie, I told you he was smart". Both Willie and Sam snorted in amusement.
Jarod closed his eyes and concentrated on his breathing. He heard Lyle say "that's ok buddy, you take your time, I know what a bitch it is when you've just woken up and there's no goddamn coffee.."
Jarod filtered out Lyle and tried to assess the situation. He couldn't see anything but black. He shook his head, but the hood did not move and he could feel the cord pull lightly at his throat. He could hear an engine and feel the slight vibration through the floor. That probably meant they were on a Centre jet on the way back to Blue Cove. He suppressed a shudder. Something was strapped around the tops of his legs, his abdomen and chest, pressing him painfully into the chair. The chest strap was so tight he was really struggling to breathe and he could feel the edges of it cutting into his skin. But the worst was his back and wrists. His hands were secured by what he guessed were handcuffs, and they were cutting cruelly into his wrists and pressing into the small of his back. He tried to shift his weight to relieve some of the pressure, but the straps didn't move an inch. His shoulder was next, and a dull pain radiated from where he took the bullet. No, that wasn't right. There would have been much more pain if it had been a bullet, what then, a dart? His face also hurt, from when he fell. He had a throbbing headache, side effects of the drug they must have used. But nothing seemed irreparably damaged.
Lyle was there, in front of him. Willie was on his right, and someone was on his left. He was unable to determine anything else. It was apparent, that for the moment, there was nothing he could do. Anger boiled inside.
Someone, Lyle he guessed, slapped him lightly on the face. Then he heard Lyle's voice, very close.
"We fully awake now Golden Boy?"
Although Jarod could not actually see Lyle's face, he could picture the smug look on it perfectly. He kicked out with his booted foot, hit something solid and was rewarded with a howl of pain from Lyle. A twisted smile formed, but was quickly replaced with a grimace as he felt hands on his shoulders, pushing him even further into the seat. He groaned as his back and wrists took even more punishment. He then felt Lyle's hands around his throat, blocking his already limited ability to breathe. He started to gasp, trying to shake his head from side to side, but Lyle's grip only tightened. He could feel himself losing consciousness when the weight from his shoulders was gone and then the grip from his throat. A deep voice, Sam he recognized, "Mr Lyle, you can't kill him! Stop it. Mr Lyle!" He heard Lyle's weight drop to the seat in front of him, and then he felt the seats next to him shudder as the sweepers dropped back into their own seats.
He closed his eyes again, sucking in small breaths through the hood. He hated the feel of the material against his face. An onslaught of memories of his abduction as a child assaulted him, and on the edge of consciousness, he succumbed to them and he started to silently cry.
Lyle was too busy with his throbbing shin to notice Jarod's distress. He growled out "Don't worry Monkey Boy, you will pay for that." When he felt that he could walk, he got up and went to the front of the cabin to get a drink.
Miss Parker looked up. There was amusement in her face. She had heard the howl and noticed a very slight limp as Lyle moved toward the bar. "Trouble with the labrat?" she asked with a smile on her face and an arched eyebrow.
"Nothing I can't handle." He said as he tilted his head, and gulped down a drink. He then poured himself another. "I didn't think you were interested anymore."
"I'm not" she shot back, "But if you want my advice."
"I don't. And if I recall correctly, you are out of this now. Jarod belongs to me. Me and Raines."
She shuddered inwardly at that comment, but she did not allow any reaction to show on her face.
"You wont hold him! If I were you, I would be on him like white on rice."
Lyle chuckled softly at that comment. "We'll see about that." He finished his drink.
Parker's head snapped up at that comment. It didn't sound like his usual bravado and posturing. She had an uneasy feeling that he was holding back on something. For months now, she knew he had been plotting with Raines, but she had been unable to establish even the smallest clue as to what. But now she had the distinct feeling, that whatever it was, it was tied into the re-capture of Jarod. Lyle had drifted off into his own thoughts and had not noticed her sharp look.
Parker looked away from Lyle, staring back out the window. She sighed. Jarod. Everything always came back to Jarod. He was the centre of all of their lives. He was their sun, and they were all satellites, chasing endlessly around in circles, enslaved in his gravity well. Her eyes flicked over to Lyle and she saw that look on his face, and it chilled her. All of a sudden, she wanted to take it all back. She wanted to undo what she had done. Her thoughts drifted to the man in the back. She had this desperate urge to run to him and apologize. She wanted him to understand, to understand that she hadn't meant it, that she didn't want this for him. Her mouth twisted in a wry smile. Things couldn't be undone, and now he would be left to the tender mercies of her brother and her father. And it was her fault. "Parker, what are you doing?" she thought to herself. "You know damned well things can't be any other way. It's not your fault, he was caught either way. You didn't condemn him, you saved yourself."
She shook herself. Self-recrimination had never really been her style, that was Jarod's influence, yet again undermining her. And with that thought, she made a decision. She would put a stop to this internal struggle that seemed never-ending. She used to be so certain of everything. She knew who she was and what her place was in the world. Over the last few years she had let too many people try to force her to be who they wanted to be. She was a strong woman, who did not let people stand in the way of what she wanted. Right now she wanted out of The Centre. Her account was settled, it was sitting trussed up in the back of the plane, and she would be done with all of it. No more guilt, no more chasing, no more threats..it was time to get on with her life. With her resolve stiffened, she felt somewhat more sure of herself. The plane started to descend, and Parker was on her way to reclaim her life.
Entropy Pt 3
10:00am The Centre Sydney's Office
Sydney was at his desk transcribing notes from a previous session. But his thoughts were occupied elsewhere. Of late he had become more distracted and listless. He found it harder to lose himself in his work, most of which he thought was tedious and not worth his time. His eyes flicked over to the model in the corner and he sighed. He finally gave up any pretence of work, turned off the recorder, placed his pen on the desk and leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes and stretching his arms above his head.
"Ahh.umm..sorry Sydney.." Broots was shuffling uncomfortably in the doorway. "I have.those printouts are ready for you..are you ok?"
"I am fine Broots" a ghost of a smile touched his lips, "Just tired, that's all."
"Oh.oh that's good. Well I gotta be off." Broots eyes were looking desperately for something on the floor. "See ya round." He placed the folders on the desk and then made a scrambled getaway out the door.
"Wait a minute, Broots" but the Doctor was talking to the closing door.
Something was obviously up, and Broots didn't want to talk about it. Sydney hoped that nothing was wrong with Debbie. But he didn't think so. He suspected it was Centre business, and more specifically, business that affected him, or perhaps Miss Parker. Broots was always reluctant to hand over any information that he thought would hurt his friends, Sydney found this quality in him rather endearing. He frowned and reached for the phone and dialled Miss Parker's office, only to be informed by her secretary that Miss Parker was not in yet, and did not know here whereabouts, nor when she was expected back. A small tingle of alarm went of in Sydney's mind, but there was nothing to worry about yet. He then tried her home, only to get the machine. He put the phone down. The thought "Don't go looking for trouble, it will find you soon enough" ran through his head.
He was about to resume his transcribing when the phone rang. He looked at it and paused before answering. For that brief moment he felt the anticipation, the faint flicker of hope that it was Jarod calling. It had been a long time since he had heard from his former protégé, and Sydney was worried. Jarod had never before gone this long without calling. Sydney knew that he had called Parker, at least once, but he didn't think that he had been in much contact with her either. She had been acting strangely since her return from Carthis. Sydney knew that she was greatly disturbed by the revelations that he and Broots had discovered with respect to her family. However, Sydney didn't think that this was the only thing that was weighing on her mind. He had tried many times to talk to her about it, but she had kept her own counsel and refused to talk to him. Over the past few months she had become more withdrawn, and more openly hostile. Sydney did not doubt that whatever it was, it was also the reason behind Jarod's continuing silence. He closed his eyes and picked up the receiver.
"Hello, this is Sydney", his eyes opened and his shoulders slumped in disappointment. "Yes, I will be there in ten minutes"
A summons to The Chairman's office. The small anxiety that had started with Broots and then with Miss Parker stepped up a notch. I wasn't full blown yet, but Sydney had a bad feeling. A visit to the Chairman's office was never good. As he made his way to Raines' office, thoughts were racing through his head. He hoped Parker was ok, what was Broots hiding? Perhaps they had a lead on Jarod. He had reached the office and was ushered in.
"Sydney" Mr Raines wheezed.
"What can I help you with Mr Raines?" Sydney stood in front of the desk. From all outward appearances, he looked calm and collected. Nothing of his anxiety showed on his face.
"Sit down." Raines gestured to a chair.
Sydney's anxiety went up another notch. Raines had a satisfied look on his face, and what would pass for a smile. As Sydney lowered himself into the chair, his heart sank. Whatever it was, it was not going to make Sydney happy.
"It has been a while since we have talked..How are things going in the sim labs?"
Sydney knew for certain now. It was bad. Raines had no interest in Sydney's work and was just enjoying playing with him. But Sydney was an old expert at playing these kinds of games.
"Well sir, as you know, everything is going according to schedule. Unfortunately, we have had no remarkable results. Everything is in my reports. It is my estimation that this line of research is a waste of time and resources."
"Yes. I have come to the same conclusion... I have a new project for you to start..Be ready in a few days." he had to pause. He drew in a few very heavy breaths. He sounded like a man that was drowning. But he could not keep the excitement out of his face or voice.
Sydney waited patiently to be punched in the gut with whatever news was about to hit him.
"What new project would that be?"
Raines' smile made Sydney's heart miss a beat. All of a sudden it was hard to breathe and he knew it before Raines even opened his mouth.
"We have Jarod!" The satisfaction was nauseating. Raines was watching Sydney very carefully.
Sydney was glad he was sitting down. He surely would have fallen. His mind screamed "no", silencing that tiny spark that was still buried. That tiny voice that yearned to have Jarod back, yearned to be back at the most rewarding work of his life. He sat there staring dumbly at Raines, unable or unwilling to process the information.
"I knew how happy you would be.. and I wanted to tell you... in person". Raines was enjoying this moment. It had been too long in coming. Under his leadership, he would get The Centre back on track. He was pleased with Lyle's plan to keep Jarod under control and cooperative, and if it destroyed Sydney in the process, well so much the better.
He watched with undisguised glee as the other man tried to pull himself together. Raines had to admire the effort Sydney was putting in. Sydney's self-control was quite remarkable. He just could not wipe the grin off his face today.
"When will I be able to see him?" Sydney was all business now.
"The jet should be back early this afternoon." now to stick in the knife "..But I am afraid you will not be allowed access for a few days."
Sydney was on his feet. "Why not..you know I am the best qualified to handle Jarod. You.."
"Calm down." He interrupted. Sydney had reacted exactly the way Raines had expected. ".You will get your chance...but first we have to see to security...and other matters." Raines then went to pick up the phone.
"You are dismissed" he wheezed as an afterthought without even looking at Sydney.
Sydney's eyes bored into the top of Raines bald head, and getting no response, he stormed out of the office. The one thought on his mind was to find Broots.
Raines was on the phone organising the last minute details. He had to ensure that Jarod did not get away again. Mr Parker had always been very complacent in this, he felt. But Raines was a patient man, accustomed to long-term projects. The work on SL-27 was not yet complete, but would do nicely to house their escapee, permanently. The rest of the work would progress on schedule. He did not think that the return of Jarod should upset their timetable at all. Jarod might even be able to help speed things along. He chuckled to himself at that thought. He was very pleased at Sydney's reaction. Sydney had always been so predictable, so easy to manipulate. Raines knew that Sydney had been an impediment to the ongoing pursuit of Jarod, but now he was going to be his biggest asset. The irony was delicious. He had every confidence in both his son and Mr Cox. The phone rang and got back to the business of organising for the prodigal son's return.
As Sydney was making his way to the tech room, he forced himself to calm down. He needed a cool head, he needed to think. This explained both Broots' nervousness, and Miss Parker's absence. He did not believe that Parker really would bring Jarod in. Over the years he had watched her soften, become less like her father, and more like her mother. Could he have misjudged her so badly? What had happened on that damned island? Did Jarod do something to turn her against him? He needed answers.
Broots was sitting at his computer and did not hear Sydney come in. Sydney grabbed his arm and spun the now terrified techie around.
"Why didn't you tell me?" he demanded.
Broots at least had the decency not to try to deny it.
"Sydney..I..I..Raines told me not...I'm sorry" he finished finally and hung his head.
Sydney gathered himself and took a steadying breath. "I am sorry. I know it is not your fault. I am just in shock. I can't be true. God, I am so angry I could kill that smug bastard."
"Sydney, calm down please" Broots was really afraid now. He glanced around furtively to see if anyone was watching them. "What did Raines tell you?"
"Only that they had Jarod. That they will be back sometime this afternoon. Please tell me what has happened, please tell me that it's a mistake."
Broots lowered his voice "Last night we got a hit on Jarod in northern California. I was running a diagnostic programme, one of my own actually." he saw Sydney's look."...well, it was just a fluke really, just dumb luck and I wasn't even sure it was Jarod. Well, it was Jarod, but .you know lots of people have first names that start... And right at that moment he turned up. I swear he has some kind of evil sixth sense. So I called Miss Parker and Mr Lyle and was about to call you..but Raines said not to ..so I waited till he left..and was about to call you..and you wont believe it...he called me to warn me not to tell you...Sydney...I...I really wanted to tell you...but..Raines.." Sydney put his hand on the younger man's shoulder. None of this was his fault.
"Broots, its alright. Now, can you tell me what's happening now?"
"I don't know... there have been new security arrangements...but they are separate from the main system. Independent...I don't know who's setting them up..but I do know where they are for.."
Sydney had that bad feeling again. Broots' voice dropped to a whisper "SL- 27"
"But that's impossible". Sydney's voice had also dropped.
"Sydney, c'mon, this is The Centre. Nothing is impossible. I would bet that's where they are gonna take him."
Sydney's mind was racing. "Broots, find out everything you can about SL-27. What have they done to it since the bombing. Someone, find out who Raines has put on this, has been busy down there. Find out everything. Access in and out, security, everything. But keep it quiet. Come only to me..."
"What about Miss Parker?" he interrupted.
"She can't know anything about this!" he snapped. He closed his eyes and tried to get hold of his rampaging emotions. "Broots, just lets keep this between us, for the moment. Please." With that he left for his own office. He needed some time to himself. He needed to think.
Broots was left standing in the room by himself. He could not remember ever seeing Sydney so upset. It was now obvious that they had caught Jarod. He sat down in his chair and picked up the photo of his daughter. "I'm sorry Jarod, I never wanted this." He stared at the photo in his hand, and fighting back the guilt, he went to work. He was sure that Sydney would want to help Jarod, and Broots would do anything that he could to help. But they would have to be very careful. It was much easier for Sydney, he really had nothing to lose anymore. Broots did not have that luxury. He placed the photo back and turned to his machine. It was time to go hunting. Just the name of SL-27 was enough to send him into the cold sweats. He knew this would not be easy. Whatever had been going on had been very covert. But he had an idea that Mr Lyle and Mr Cox would be a very good start. The two of them gave him the same feeling as SL-27. It wasn't much, but it was all he had.
Sydney was back in his office, resting his head in his hands. He felt sick with grief. He squeezed his eyes shut, but it did not stop the tears from falling. He allowed himself this time to weep, this time to grieve. Jarod would need him soon and Sydney could not afford to be handicapped by raw, uncontrollable emotions. He would do whatever it took, make whatever sacrifice was needed, but he would ensure that Jarod got out and that he would be safe, once and for all. After the worst of his emotions were spent, he went about organising all of his files, tying up all the loose ends. It helped pass the time and helped him clear his head. When Jarod came, there would be nothing to distract him. Sydney's focus would be absolute. Now all he could do was wait.
Sydney did not notice the blue eyes peering at him from the air vent. Angelo could feel the pain coming off Sydney in waves. He felt like he was drowning in it. It was so consuming that Angelo couldn't figure out what was wrong. The only thing he knew was "Jarod". Jarod was in some kind of trouble, maybe Jarod was dead. Angelo crept back through the maze that was his home, found his safe "space" and cried himself to sleep.
SL-27
Mr Cox was disappointed that he had not been invited on the company excursion to go collect their wayward Pretender, but things don't always go your way, and he still had much work to do down here. When Raines had taken command, he had ordered that his old playground be restored. Cox had no idea what kind of projects Raines had planned for down here, he didn't really care.
The last six months had seen extensive renovations. Secrecy had slowed down the progress somewhat, but it was almost done now. There had originally been over a hundred rooms, many of them small cells, but the bomb had gutted it. The room that would now house Jarod was at the far end of the twisting hallways, the last in a long string of cells. There was also an extensive sim lab, medical facilities, a gym which included a pool and a large shower block. Some residential quarters had been set up for staff if it was required. A large kitchen with enough stores to feed up to twenty people for two weeks if necessary. Both the power and security could be operated independently from the main system. At least a quarter of the space was empty, awaiting the completion of renovations. A single elevator now came down to this level and the old sewer access had been removed. The only way in, or out, was through the elevator shaft. The elevator only came down to this level with passcode access. And only himself, Raines and Lyle knew that passcode.
An extremely extensive system of cameras and infrared detectors had been placed throughout the entire sublevel. The system was not yet online, and this was one of the few remaining things Cox had to set up. This was not his usual area of expertise, but it was always good, he thought to himself, to stretch one's self.
The rest of The Centre did not know of its existence, or if they did, did not know that it had been resurrected. Cox was currently checking on the final security arrangements for Jarod's cell and the sim lab. Although he had never actually met the man, he knew what he was capable of. He had familiarised himself with Jarod's previous escapes from The Centre. He was confident that all that could be done to improve security had been done. The security on what he had come to think of as "his" level, was unprecedented. No-one, not even Jarod, could get out of here. Well, at least he hoped so, he had bet his life on it.
He finished his last inspection and headed for the elevator at the end of the hall. The anticipation was building in him now. He had been working with Lyle and Raines for months, planning for Jarod's eventual return, and now that the moment was nearly here, he almost couldn't believe it. He waited patiently for the elevator to descend, turning over the problems of ensuring Jarod's cooperation in his mind. The doors opened and he entered the car. He absently pushed the button that would deposit him on the same floor as Raines' office. He smiled to himself. He hoped Jarod didn't break too easily.
The Centre Jet, 20 minutes out of Blue Cove
Jarod was struggling back to consciousness very slowly. He had been having the most horrendous nightmare, even by his standards. Miss Parker had found him, and he was trapped. He was trying to run, in a complete state of panic now, and she had shot him. As he was thrown forward, landing heavily on the ground, all he could think was "No, she wouldn't kill me." As he tried to shrug off the nightmare, the first thing he was aware of was the enormous sense of relief. It was just a dream! Parker would never shoot him. The next sense to hit him was pain, and it was absolute. He hurt everywhere. His chest and wrists were on fire, and he felt like he had been stabbed in the small of his back. His shoulder, legs and face also hurt, but to a lesser degree. He could hardly breathe. He was nearly fully conscious now, and he opened his eyes and saw nothing but black. He tried to move and found that he couldn't. Panic hit him full force. His already laboured breathing become more difficult and he began to hyperventilate, sucking in shallow rapid breaths.
"Calm down Jarod. There is no need for you to worry, you are among friends", Jarod could hear the smile in the voice and he felt sick. All the fight went out of him. He forced himself to relax, he had to get control of his breathing.
"Lyle", it was only a whisper.
"See Willie, I told you he was smart". Both Willie and Sam snorted in amusement.
Jarod closed his eyes and concentrated on his breathing. He heard Lyle say "that's ok buddy, you take your time, I know what a bitch it is when you've just woken up and there's no goddamn coffee.."
Jarod filtered out Lyle and tried to assess the situation. He couldn't see anything but black. He shook his head, but the hood did not move and he could feel the cord pull lightly at his throat. He could hear an engine and feel the slight vibration through the floor. That probably meant they were on a Centre jet on the way back to Blue Cove. He suppressed a shudder. Something was strapped around the tops of his legs, his abdomen and chest, pressing him painfully into the chair. The chest strap was so tight he was really struggling to breathe and he could feel the edges of it cutting into his skin. But the worst was his back and wrists. His hands were secured by what he guessed were handcuffs, and they were cutting cruelly into his wrists and pressing into the small of his back. He tried to shift his weight to relieve some of the pressure, but the straps didn't move an inch. His shoulder was next, and a dull pain radiated from where he took the bullet. No, that wasn't right. There would have been much more pain if it had been a bullet, what then, a dart? His face also hurt, from when he fell. He had a throbbing headache, side effects of the drug they must have used. But nothing seemed irreparably damaged.
Lyle was there, in front of him. Willie was on his right, and someone was on his left. He was unable to determine anything else. It was apparent, that for the moment, there was nothing he could do. Anger boiled inside.
Someone, Lyle he guessed, slapped him lightly on the face. Then he heard Lyle's voice, very close.
"We fully awake now Golden Boy?"
Although Jarod could not actually see Lyle's face, he could picture the smug look on it perfectly. He kicked out with his booted foot, hit something solid and was rewarded with a howl of pain from Lyle. A twisted smile formed, but was quickly replaced with a grimace as he felt hands on his shoulders, pushing him even further into the seat. He groaned as his back and wrists took even more punishment. He then felt Lyle's hands around his throat, blocking his already limited ability to breathe. He started to gasp, trying to shake his head from side to side, but Lyle's grip only tightened. He could feel himself losing consciousness when the weight from his shoulders was gone and then the grip from his throat. A deep voice, Sam he recognized, "Mr Lyle, you can't kill him! Stop it. Mr Lyle!" He heard Lyle's weight drop to the seat in front of him, and then he felt the seats next to him shudder as the sweepers dropped back into their own seats.
He closed his eyes again, sucking in small breaths through the hood. He hated the feel of the material against his face. An onslaught of memories of his abduction as a child assaulted him, and on the edge of consciousness, he succumbed to them and he started to silently cry.
Lyle was too busy with his throbbing shin to notice Jarod's distress. He growled out "Don't worry Monkey Boy, you will pay for that." When he felt that he could walk, he got up and went to the front of the cabin to get a drink.
Miss Parker looked up. There was amusement in her face. She had heard the howl and noticed a very slight limp as Lyle moved toward the bar. "Trouble with the labrat?" she asked with a smile on her face and an arched eyebrow.
"Nothing I can't handle." He said as he tilted his head, and gulped down a drink. He then poured himself another. "I didn't think you were interested anymore."
"I'm not" she shot back, "But if you want my advice."
"I don't. And if I recall correctly, you are out of this now. Jarod belongs to me. Me and Raines."
She shuddered inwardly at that comment, but she did not allow any reaction to show on her face.
"You wont hold him! If I were you, I would be on him like white on rice."
Lyle chuckled softly at that comment. "We'll see about that." He finished his drink.
Parker's head snapped up at that comment. It didn't sound like his usual bravado and posturing. She had an uneasy feeling that he was holding back on something. For months now, she knew he had been plotting with Raines, but she had been unable to establish even the smallest clue as to what. But now she had the distinct feeling, that whatever it was, it was tied into the re-capture of Jarod. Lyle had drifted off into his own thoughts and had not noticed her sharp look.
Parker looked away from Lyle, staring back out the window. She sighed. Jarod. Everything always came back to Jarod. He was the centre of all of their lives. He was their sun, and they were all satellites, chasing endlessly around in circles, enslaved in his gravity well. Her eyes flicked over to Lyle and she saw that look on his face, and it chilled her. All of a sudden, she wanted to take it all back. She wanted to undo what she had done. Her thoughts drifted to the man in the back. She had this desperate urge to run to him and apologize. She wanted him to understand, to understand that she hadn't meant it, that she didn't want this for him. Her mouth twisted in a wry smile. Things couldn't be undone, and now he would be left to the tender mercies of her brother and her father. And it was her fault. "Parker, what are you doing?" she thought to herself. "You know damned well things can't be any other way. It's not your fault, he was caught either way. You didn't condemn him, you saved yourself."
She shook herself. Self-recrimination had never really been her style, that was Jarod's influence, yet again undermining her. And with that thought, she made a decision. She would put a stop to this internal struggle that seemed never-ending. She used to be so certain of everything. She knew who she was and what her place was in the world. Over the last few years she had let too many people try to force her to be who they wanted to be. She was a strong woman, who did not let people stand in the way of what she wanted. Right now she wanted out of The Centre. Her account was settled, it was sitting trussed up in the back of the plane, and she would be done with all of it. No more guilt, no more chasing, no more threats..it was time to get on with her life. With her resolve stiffened, she felt somewhat more sure of herself. The plane started to descend, and Parker was on her way to reclaim her life.