CHAPTER 45
The wind from the chopper's rotors blasted down on the rooftop helicopter pad of the main operations building. Around it, the jungle foliage was bending and thrashing in the turbulent air.
"You're absolutely right, Dr. Johnson." Joan Murdock hollered over the rushing, thumping noise. "In addition to the children being moved to a safer location I'll have all personnel retreat to the main operations compound. That's number one priority right now. I don't want anyone outside these fences, not for any reason, until we get this situation under control." Her face grew more stern. "We can ill afford further casualties."
At that moment Page Thompson and Robinson were coming up a set of stairs on the side of the landing pad with fresh weapons in hand. After making their way across the pad, Joan grabbed their attention at the helicopter's side door.
"Make short work of this. I don't want any more incidents." She had Robinson by the shoulder.
"That goes without saying, Ms. Murdock." He slipped out of her grip and ducked into the helicopter behind Page. Since Chathem's death he'd spiraled into a state of emotional numbness, a habit he'd picked up during his days in combat. If not for it he'd already be finding himself getting worked up over the fact that Chathem's death, along with the others, had promptly been reduced to an incident.
Robinson had heard the rumors surrounding a fatality on Isla Nublar, rumors of lawsuits and investigations. The company was already in danger of having their investors pull out. He wondered how quickly INGEN would have all of these "incidents" swept under the rug. As Robinson settled into his seat he thought of Mr. Hammond. He'd shaken hands with the man on a few occasions. John always seemed friendly, chipper, and caring of the wellbeing of his employees. He carried a strong enthusiasm and passion about what he was doing. Robinson never got the impression that John Hammond was a heartless corporate bastard, but who really knew. Still, it seemed more likely to him that there were others pulling strings against the CEO's liking, perhaps even behind his back.
At the helicopter door, Joan was arguing with Dr. Johnson. "Where do you think you're going?"
"I'm going with them." Dianna was reaching for the frame of the door.
"I'm afraid that's out of the question, Dr. Johnson. I don't need more people out there than I already have."
"But the kids might be scared. They need to see a familiar face. Bryce, you should be coming too." Dianna shot a look behind her.
Joan put her hands up. "I won't have it, Dr. Johnson. This is not up for debate."
Bryce held a hand on Dianna's arm. "This isn't helping. They'll be back before you know it. I promise."
Dianna pushed him away and stormed down the stairs. As Dr. Conners went to follow her, Ms. Murdock secured the door on the helicopter and backed away to let it ascend. With a breath she watched it bank toward the north. She had a great deal of work ahead of her, and there was no room for delay.