Chapter 9
Jack found Jonas and Sgt. Siler on Level 28. Jonas put his rag in his now dirty water bucket and grinned.
-Good to have you back, Colonel.
-Good to be back. Status report.
-We're done. All 28 Levels have been thoroughly cleaned.
-Wow. That was fast.
-Yes, sir. Many hands make light work.
-Um…right. Sgt?
Siler came over and stood beside them.
-Yes, sir?
-When's the last time these hallways had a fresh coat of paint?
-Um, well sir, I can't recall when. The gateroom gets repainted whenever something blows up in there, which is often. But, the hallways…it hasn't been while I've been here.
-Hmm.
Jonas turned to Jack.
-You're not thinking what I think you're thinking…are you?
Jack smiled.
-Siler, get paint for the stripes on the floor and the doors and 3 paintbrushes and meet us at the top. This time it'll just be the 3 of us so we don't occupy all the hallways at the same time.
-Um, yes sir.
Siler headed for the lift. Jonas sighed.
-Colonel, they already think you're crazy. Do you really think it's wise to give them more reason to be concerned?
Jack shrugged.
-Maybe after this they'll realize how serious I am about my work. Come on, you and I have to go get more music.
-Ok.
They headed for Jonas' office.