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The Rise of Kali

Ron Owen

Published by Ron Owen, 2018.

This is a work of fiction. Similarities to real people, places, or events are entirely coincidental.

THE RISE OF KALI

First edition. August 15, 2018.

Copyright © 2018 Ron Owen.

ISBN: 978-1386519720

Written by Ron Owen.

The Rise of Kali A Hunter Recovery Novel By Ron Owen

The Rise of Kali A Hunter Recovery Novel Copyright 2017 Ron Owen License Notes This book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. It represents years of hard work by the author. It may not be re-sold or shared with anyone else. If you would like to share this novel with anyone else, please purchase an additional copy to share with them. Thank you for respecting and ing the hard work of this author. This is a work of fiction. The persons and events depicted in this work are a contrivance of the author’s imagination and are not real. The events described do not a belief in the supernatural. Any resemblance to any event or person, living or dead, is completely coincidental.

Table of Contents

Chapter One: In The Beginning................................................................................5

Chapter Two: Hunter or the Hunted?......................................................................26

Chapter Three: The Call..........................................................................................36

Chapter Four: The Idol............................................................................................47

Chapter Five: The Theft..........................................................................................60

Chapter Six: To England.........................................................................................63

Chapter Seven: Preparation...................................................................................78

Chapter Eight: An Eventful Flight...........................................................................88

Chapter Nine: Kaseem..........................................................................................107

Chapter Ten: The Marine Base.............................................................................118

Chapter Eleven: The Temple................................................................................133

Chapter Twelve: Only The Dead May Enter..........................................................154

Chapter Thirteen: The Tomb................................................................................170

Chapter Fourteen: Enter Tiamat...........................................................................176

Chapter Fifteen: The Stone Chamber...................................................................186

Chapter Sixteen: A New time

line.........................................................................202

Chapter Seventeen: A New Beginning..................................................................207

Chapter Eighteen: A Twist In The Tale..................................................................223

Chapter Nineteen: The Plan..................................................................................231

Chapter Twenty: And The Other Shoe Drops........................................................242

Chapter Twenty-One: A Brand New Alec?.............................................................259

Chapter Twenty-Two: The Party...........................................................................265

Chapter Twenty-Three: The Memorial..................................................................275

Chapter Twenty-Four: The Butterfly Effect...........................................................290

Chapter Twenty-Five: Back to Iraq.......................................................................306

Chapter Twenty-Six: Valarius...............................................................................323

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Back To The Temple.......................................................335

Chapter Twenty-Eight: The Tomb Revisited.........................................................349

Chapter Twenty-Nine: The Evolution Stone..........................................................358

Chapter Thirty: A New Beginning, Again?.............................................................372

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Part One: Be Careful What You Wish For...

Chapter One: In The Beginning...

2005, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Rays of sunlight wove through the Chicago skyline signaling the end of one shift and the beginning of another. Kali Hunter sat at her desk at Desmond Advanced Technology, but going home was the last thing on her mind. She spoke into the phone in hushed tones to her father, Jackson. “Kali, how’s the plan going?” “Everything’s on schedule.” Her eyes darted around the room, making sure no one was eavesdropping. “I’ve gotten Grimes attention. You were right, the guy’s a real letch.” “, he’s only the floor manager, not our primary target. We just need his badge card. Make sure you get him to follow you into the copy room. Leave it for me in there.” “Right, it’ll be under the pile of papers in the floor.” “What about Desmond? Has he kept to his routine?” “He comes through the floor every day at twenty minutes ‘til five to check with the department head.” “The stolen camera is in Desmond’s safe. When he takes you to his office, stall him until I get there. You sure you’re going to be okay, Kitten?” “It won’t be a problem, I’ll have them eating out of my hand.” “That’s my girl. Now, let’s test your earbud. Shove it down deep into your ear.” Kali took a tiny object out of a case and pushed it into her ear. “How’s the reception?” He asked. “Loud and clear. What about visual? Can you see everything?” “I’m tapped into the office video feed. It looks like Grimes is walking the floor checking out the ladies.”

“Ugh, I hate the way he leers at me, I’d love to give him a two-second vasectomy. That guy makes my skin crawl.” “Speaking of skin, You’re showing an awful lot.” “Daaad.” Kali’s cheeks grew hot and she pulled down on her skirt. “I wanted you to show him some skin, not all of it.” Kali put her head down on her desk. “Will you please stop?” “OK, OK, sorry. I couldn’t resist. Here he comes. It’s time, you better get going.” Kali scooped up a large stack of papers and hurried down the corridor. Not an easy task in four-inch heels. She wore a tight black skirt and a low-cut red blouse to good effect. She caught the attention of every male in the office at some point in the day, including James Grimes, the floor supervisor. “Okay, I’m headed for the copy room. Where’s Grimes? What’s he doing?” Kali asked. “He’s a few paces behind you. Ever seen those documentaries of lions hunting antelope?” “I watched one last week, why?” “You’re the antelope.” “He won’t think so when I’m finished with him.” Kali allowed a paper to slip from her grasp. When she turned, trying to snatch it, the stack spilled, creating a spreading pool of white on the floor. She got onto her knees to organize the mess and her loose fitting blouse gaped open. “Here, let me help you with that Miss.” Grimes knelt down and feigned looking at her identification badge while stealing a glance down her blouse. The two of them scooped up papers into separate piles. “It’s Huffman, sir. Kali Huffman.”

“Huffman, you’re the new girl.” “I’ve been here two weeks. I’m terribly sorry to be so clumsy. I need to get these papers copied before the end of my shift.” Kali caught him staring down her shirt. “His I. D. badge is on his belt. Be careful he doesn’t notice you taking it.” Kali rolled her eyes at her father’s advice. Yes, dad, I know. He’s so busy staring at my cleavage, I could take his pants and he’d never notice. With the papers stacked in two piles, Grimes lifted one and stood while smoothing his comb-over with his free hand. “Let me walk you to the copy room. This is quite a stack for a young lady to carry.” Grimes eyed every inch of her body from her painted toenails to her tight ponytail and smiled. “Thank you, but I can handle it, really.” She extended her hand to take the stack from him. “No, I won’t hear of it. You just lead the way.” He winked and swept his arm in the direction of the copy room. Kali nodded and led the way down the aisle, adding an extra swing to her hips. “Looks like the fish is on the hook,” her father said. “Uh huh,” Kali hummed. They entered the copy room and Grimes shut the door behind him. Kali placed her stack of papers on the counter while Grimes plopped his on the copier. He put his arms around her waist, grabbed her hips and spun her around. “Mr. Grimes, please, I’m not that kind of girl.” She grabbed his hands, attempting to restrain them. “Oh, come on. You’ve been sending signals all week. You put on quite a show just now.” He moved his hands from her hips to her chest. “Good grief, what are you, an octopus?” Kali growled.

“It’s my mixed heritage honey. Romin’ hands, rushin’ fingers.” Kali kept trying to push him away. “Please, I’m going to be in trouble if I don’t finish this copying before quitting time.” “Honey, I’m floor supervisor. You’re going to be in trouble if you don’t finish me.” “Hang in there,” Jackson said. “Desmond will be walking by your location in sixty seconds.” “He can’t come soon enough,” Kali grunted and fought to keep Grimes hands off her. He buried his face in her shoulder and nuzzled her neck. She squirmed, twisted and managed to pull herself out of his grasp, backing away from him. Grimes followed her with a devilish grin on his lips. “So, you like to play games, eh? I like foreplay too, but only to a point.” He stalked toward her while Kali held out her palm and backed away. She pushed the pile of papers to the floor between them. He lunged for her and slipped, grabbing Kali by the waist. She managed to palm his I. D. card before they both tumbled to the floor. Kali landed hard and Grimes fell on her like a bag of wet cement. She let out a loud groan and gasped to catch her breath. She managed to push the card under the pile of paper. Flailing her legs and pushing him away with her arms, Kali growled, “Now? “Oh yeah baby, now.” Grimes moaned, reaching for his belt. “Now,” Jackson said. Kali let loose a blood-curdling scream that echoed throughout the floor. She drove her knee between Grimes’ legs and his face turned several shades of red. His eyes looked like they would bulge out of his head. Unable to breathe, he rolled off of her and onto his back in the fetal position. After a long moment, he took a ragged breath. The door burst open and Alec Desmond stood in the doorway, his imposing figure, that filled the opening, was silhouetted by the lights behind him. “What

the hell is going on?” Desmond scanned the scene. Grimes moaned with both hands between his legs while Kali pushed herself away from him. Desmond’s lips formed a tight line. “This is the last straw, Grimes. As soon as you can walk, go clean out your desk and get out.” Unable to speak, Grimes nodded his head and wept. Kali did her best to hide a smile. Desmond held out his hand. “I’m terribly sorry Miss....” Grasping his arm she struggled to stand. “Huffman, sir. Kali Huffman.” She stood for a moment but stumbled when she took a step. Desmond caught her, helping her to her feet. “Damn, I think I’ve sprained my ankle when he fell on me.” “Let me take you up to my office. We can put some ice on it while you tell me what happened.” “Oh no sir, I’ll be alright. I just need a few minutes.” He glanced at her name tag. “I insist, Miss... May I call you Kali?” “You’re the boss...uh, boss.” Desmond put his arm around her waist and she put her hand on his shoulder. The two of them made their way to the elevator while curious onlookers attempted to look busy Desmond slid his card through the slot and opened his office door. Kali’s feet sank into the plush carpet that was complimented by Cherry wood ing. On one side, a shelf held sports trophies along with a few books. Pictures of Desmond alongside various politicians decorated the opposite wall, others of him in army uniform. He helped her to the couch and she breathed in the spiced cologne he wore. That, combined with the feel of his well-toned muscles beneath his expensive suit made her heart race. Kali plopped down and Desmond slid an ottoman over, gently placing her injured foot on it. He sat on the coffee table and removed her shoe, gently probing her ankle with his fingertips. “There’s no swelling yet. It’s probably just a mild sprain.” His fingers kneaded her soft skin.

Kali laid her head back on the couch. A soft moan escaped her lips while enjoying his strong hands massaging her foot and ankle. She chastised herself. Stop acting like a teenager and focus on the mission. “I’m hoping that we don’t have to report this to the authorities. Grimes really is a good man. He just doesn’t have much luck with the ladies.” “I can see why. He needs to be in a freak show. I could’ve sworn he had more than two arms. But I grew up with two brothers so I learned how to defend myself. I can handle a creep like him.” “Well, he got what he deserved. I’m prepared to compensate you adequately for your injuries.” Desmond winked at her. “Compensate?” Kali raised her head from the back of the couch and met his soft brown eyes. She noted Desmond’s hand inching north of her ankle. “Yes, let’s say we have a glass of something cold while I get you some ice for your ankle. How about some wine?” “It’s a little early for wine isn’t it?” Desmond went to the bar on the far wall. He took out a bottle and two glasses. “I thought it might take the edge off that sore ankle. Plus it’ll relax you.” “I’m five minutes away. Stall him,” Jackson’s voice came through the earbud. Desmond strode toward her. She reached for the glass and put it to her lips. Breathing in the bouquet, she took a sip, relishing the taste before swallowing and resting the glass on her lap. Desmond sat next to her on the couch and pulled her legs onto his lap. He placed a bag of ice on her ankle and rubbed her leg. Kali put a pillow on the arm of the couch, propping herself up. She took a deep breath to calm herself. Her heartbeat increased and heat built inside of her. “Now, about that compensation...” Desmond’s lips curled into a slight grin. “You have my undivided attention.” Kali placed her glass on the table and blew out a contented sigh.

“I think we should get you off that dreary 20th floor and move you up to the big leagues. I could use a new executive assistant. The job comes with lots of perks.” “Mmm, I like perks, keep going.” Kali raised an eyebrow when Desmond’s hand migrated to her knee. She half-closed her eyes, feigning drowsiness. Desmond’s caress caused her skin to tingle all over. “Well, the pay is excellent, and you’d have full benefits.” “Benefits are good.” Kali closed her eyes and leaned her head back. Her mind began to spin fantasies about the handsome man massaging her leg. If dad doesn’t show up soon I might start kissing him. “There would be lots of time for recreation.” Desmond’s hand moved to Kali’s thigh and her heart began to pound. A knock on the door made her gasp. “You just relax and don’t move. I’ll get rid of them and we can continue our discussion.” He slid out from under her and she breathed a sigh of relief. “Who is it?” Desmond stood and strode to the door. “It’s maintenance, Mr. Desmond. We got a report of a problem with the air conditioning.” “I didn’t report any problem with the air conditioning. How did you get past my assistant?” Desmond flung the door open. A spray of white mist swirled around his face and he collapsed on the floor. “I thought you’d never get here.” Kali plopped the bag of ice on the coffee table and hopped off the couch. “So, your ankle is okay?” Jackson pointed to her leg. “Oh, it’s fine, I figured he’d be more likely to invite me to his office if I was hurt. Did you have any problems?” “No, the assistant outside is down for a nice long nap. We do need to hurry though. They could discover the missing card any time.”

“So, where’s the safe? Did he get creative with it? Or is he vain enough to hide it behind the painting behind his desk?” Jackson and Kali turned their eyes to the large painting of Alec Desmond, clad in full Army dress uniform. He sported the two silver bars of a captain and a swagger stick tucked under one arm. “I’ll take door number one, Monty.” Jackson took a small mirror from his pocket and checked behind the frame for any alarm wires. He pulled on the frame, revealing a wall safe with a digital keypad. “Whatever happened to the rotary dial? You could use a stethoscope and get into just about any safe.” He shook his head. “What can I say? That’s the price of progress.” Kali put her hand on her father’s shoulder. “So, are we guessing at it or do we know the combination?” “We can’t guess too many times. This is a Brinkley 2000 safe. Three wrong attempts and it sets off an alarm.” Jackson scratched his head. “But, I did enough research on our criminal friend here. I know everything about him, up to and including his underwear size.” He grinned at Kali. “Ugh, please, not something I want to know.” Kali eyed Desmond’s prone figure on the floor, noting the bulge in his slacks. “Apparently, he was enjoying my company a little too much.” “From the looks of things, you two were getting along pretty well,” Her father teased. “Just open the safe, please. Enough with the jokes already.” She raised her palm. “I’m ready for a long hot shower. I haven’t been pawed this much since you got me a puppy.” Jackson entered one eight-digit combination causing a buzzing noise. “Hmm, it’s not his address.” He tried again and the irritating buzz sounded off. “Okay, not his phone number. If this last one doesn’t work, I’ll have to use the c-4 that I brought.” “We don’t have much time left. Just blow it.” “Too messy and loud. I’ll give it one more try.” Jackson punched in eight more numbers. With a loud click, the safe swung open.

“Let me guess, his birthday, right?” Kali peered over her father’s shoulder. “Criminals have no imagination these days.” Jackson shook his head. He pulled out a tiny robotic camera prototype along with a folder of schematics. “Put that right back where you got it, Hunter.” Jackson froze. Kali gasped and spun around, her heart pounded. Alec Desmond stood at the edge of his desk, a drawer open and a pistol pointed in their direction. He blinked several times and shook his head. “Now, Blondie, step away from him. You and I have unfinished business, but I’ll tend to you later.” Desmond waved the gun indicating Kali move away. She regarded him for a moment, chiding herself for feeling anything toward him. She took a few steps to her right, assessing the distance between them. “I heard you had a daughter. She’s quite the pretty little thing isn’t she?” Jackson’s brow furrowed at Kali. “I thought I told you to use the new formula of knock-out gas.” “No, you told me to use up the old stuff first.” “I did not, I distinctly telling you to throw the old formula out.” “Well, that’s not the way I it.” “Enough!” Desmond’s face reddened. He used one hand to steady himself against the desk. “Hunter, I finally get the pleasure of sending you to jail. And when they cart you off, I’m going to get a lot more pleasure with your daughter.” Anger swelled in Kali’s chest and her hands clenched into fists. “The police will see it a lot differently Desmond. This camera doesn’t belong to you. You stole it. You and I both know it.” Jackson shook his finger at Desmond. “That may be true, but let’s see you prove it,” Desmond said with a smile. “I’ve had enough of you for one day.” Kali reached behind her back and pulled out an eight-inch sword. Pressing a button on the hilt, another eight inches

sprang out. Desmond had no time to react. He shouted when the back of the blade hit his hand. Pain shot up his arm and he dropped the gun. The pistol hit the floor with a thud and Desmond lunged for it. He froze when the cold point of steel pressed against his throat. Slowly, he stood erect. Kali’s eyes were slits. “One wrong move and I’ll take away your reason for wearing a necktie.” A trickle of blood slid down his neck, staining the white shirt with crimson. Desmond’s eyes were foggy but bore through her. “Hit him again with the gas and let’s get out of here.” Kali never took her eyes off her opponent. Jackson stowed the camera and paper inside his coveralls. “I’m fresh out. Let’s just lock him in the bathroom. I’ll check it out.” Jackson snatched the keycard from the desk and opened the door. “You have a phone in your bathroom?” He asked Desmond. “Kali I’ve told you I need a phone in the bathroom.” “Eww, no. You are not putting a phone in the bathroom, that’s just gross.” She crinkled her nose. Desmond regarded her out of the corner of his eye. “It wouldn’t be wise to try anything, Desmond. I studied ten years under a samurai sword master. I can take your head off before you can blink.” Jackson came out of the bathroom and waved them over. Desmond walked through the door on shaky legs. Kali sliced the phone in half and slammed the door behind her jamming a chair under the handle. She moved to the office door with Jackson behind her and cracked it open. “All clear.” Kali retracted the blade on her sword and hid it beneath her blouse. “Good, now let me get rid of this outfit.” Jackson unzipped his coveralls to reveal the uniform of a security guard. “Now, when we get into the hallway, start crying.” The restroom wall shook from Desmond’s attempts to get out. Father and daughter hurried out of the office and entered the hallway. Kali whimpered quietly and Jackson led her by the arm to the elevator. They entered Desmond’s private lift and the doors slid closed. “This is an express elevator. It’ll be the fastest way out.” Jackson put his arm

around Kali’s shoulder in a brief hug. “You did great kid. I think you’re ready to operate on your own.” Kali put one arm around her father’s waist and pulled him close. “I still wish you didn’t have to leave. Can’t they find someone else for the job?” “I’ve waited a long time for this spot to open up. Assistant to the ambassador to Iraq is quite a step up. Instead of associating with seedy lowlifes, I’ll be rubbing elbows with big-time lowlifes. You’re ready to take over the family business. Your brothers will be home from college in a couple of weeks and the three of you can run things. It’s time for you to take the reins.” The elevator jolted to a halt, knocking them off balance. “Uh-oh, looks like the beast got out of his cage.” Kali noted the display. “Not good, halfway between the first and second floors.” “Okay, give me a hand.” Jackson tried to wedge his fingers into the doors to open them. Kali pulled out her sword, jammed it into the crack and pried. The door inched open. An intermittent buzzing sound infiltrated the elevator. Kali’s heart raced. The two wrestled the doors open enough to slide through. She hopped to the ground floor, followed by her father. Workers scurried around grabbing possessions and heading for the exits. A thick pane of glass descended toward the floor, threatening to lock them in. “Time for you to quit this job Kitten, I think we pissed off the boss.” Jackson grabbed Kali’s elbow and ran. She stumbled and sprawled onto the floor then sat up and took off her heels. “What are you doing?” Jackson spun around and waved her on. “I can’t run in these blasted shoes.” She threw them over her shoulder. “Those are two-hundred-dollar shoes.” “We’ll be two dead people if we don’t get through that door.” By the time they reached the glass, only eighteen inches remained open, and that was closing fast. Jackson dropped and slid through on the polished floor. Kali dove headfirst, only to have her ankle caught by the glass.

She looked at her father with wild eyes. “Just go, get out of here.” She waved him on. “Not without you.” He put his hands under the glass and pulled. Two shots rang out. The bullets struck the thick sheet of bulletproof glass in front of Jackson’s chest. He gasped and jerked his head back. If not for the glass, he would have died instantly. Kali spun her head. A bullet slammed into the glass in front of her face. Alec Desmond ran toward them and continued firing until he emptied the clip. Bullets made pockmarks in the glass. Jackson bent his knees, screaming as he lifted. Desmond dove to grab her foot. The glass budged just enough. Kali jerked her foot out, the glass slammed down and Desmond crashed into it. Kali limped out to the street while leaning on her father. Glancing over their shoulder, two security guards helped Desmond to his feet. They attempted to dust him off when he pushed them against the wall. He screamed at them and glared out into the busy Chicago Street. Jackson and Kali blended into the crowd and disappeared.

JACKSON WALKED OUT the front door of their home, suitcases in hand and turned to have one last look around. Kali stood behind him, doe-eyed and looking lost. “Now don’t look at me like that, Kitten. You’re going to be fine.” “But Dad...” “No buts, young lady. You can do this. I know I’ll be gone a long time, but this is important business. Iraq is dangerously close to developing nuclear weapons and we can’t let that happen.” “I know how important it is. But, it won’t stop me from missing you.” Kali’s eyes flooded and she buried her head into his shoulder. “Hey, you’re the most courageous, most strong-willed person I know. You’ve had to grow up fast since your mother died. But, if there’s anyone in the world I can trust to handle things, it’s you.” Jackson gripped her shoulders and looked into her eyes. He wiped the tears from her cheeks and kissed her on the forehead. “Besides, I’m never more than a phone call away, day or night. Now, I called your brothers. They’ll be home soon to help you with the business. Just try not to hurt them too badly will you? Hmm?” Kali managed a weak smile and nodded her head. Wiping her cheeks with the back of her hand, she took a deep breath and hugged her father one last time. Walking with him to the taxi, she helped him put the bags in the trunk. With one more kiss on the cheek, Jackson got in the car. Kali stared at the taillights until they vanished from view. She couldn’t shake the sinking feeling in her stomach. The ringing doorbell woke Kali from a deep sleep. She blinked to clear her bleary eyes. The clock read Five a.m. She dropped her head onto the pillow and sighed as the bell reverberated through the house again. Throwing the covers back, she stood, testing her sore ankle, grabbed her robe off the bedpost and limped downstairs. Her toes peeked out from under baggy pajama bottoms as she shuffled across the polished living room floor.

Approaching the heavy ed oak door, she lifted the flap covering the peephole. Two men in dark suits stood outside. “Who is it?” Kali shouted. “I’m terribly sorry to bother you miss. We’re from the State Department. It’s important that we speak with you right away.” “Let me see some I.D.” Both men reached into their jackets and produced badges with their pictures. Kali looked them over and unlocked the door. “What brings you men out and about at this time of morning?” She glared at them through her disheveled mop of hair. “I’m agent Davenport, this is agent Reeves. Could we come in Miss Hunter?” “Sure, I need to sit down anyway, my ankle is killing me.” Kali led them to the living room where they sat on opposite couches. “Miss Hunter, this is never easy to say. There’s been an accident.” Kali’s eye were no longer slits. “Accident, what accident? Is it my father? Tell me he’s alright. Please, please, tell me he’s alright.” Kali sat on the edge of the couch. She gripped the cushion until her knuckles turned white. Her heart pounded. She fought to clear her foggy mind. “Your father’s plane went down over Iraq. Now, this just happened you understand. We only have preliminary reports. But from the looks of the wreckage, it’s unlikely that there were any survivors.” Kali’s mouth dropped open and her body went numb. Feeling confused, she searched for words that wouldn’t come. “Several search and rescue teams have been dispatched to the area, but I’m afraid you need to prepare for the worst. They’ll continue searching until we have confirmation on each enger on that plane.” “How can it be? Do they know what went wrong?” Kali’s voice was breaking along with her heart.

“All we know for now is that they sent a distress call. The garbled message sounded like someone fired a missile on the plane. Again, Miss Hunter, I’m terribly sorry. Is there anything at all we can do for you?” Kali sat, unable to move, unwilling to think. Agent Davenport waited, then spoke slowly. “Miss, is there anything at all we can do for you?” Kali shook her head to clear it. “I...I...I don’t know. I don’t know. Will you keep me informed? My brothers, they’re not home. They’re away at college. They need to know.” Kali stared blankly ahead. “We sent agents to apprise them of the situation and bring them home. You don’t have to worry about a thing. And, of course, we’ll keep you informed. The minute we have any new information we’ll relay it to you. Miss Hunter, is there anything we can do? Do you need to see a doctor?” “No...uh, no. I’ll be all right. I’ll wait for your call.” She shook her head in disbelief. “Here’s my card. You can call me at any time you need anything at all.” Kali took the card in a trembling hand. The three of them stood for a moment in silence. “Again, Miss Hunter, I’m terribly sorry.” The two men turned and walked to the door. Kali closed the door behind them and stood with her back against it. Limping away from the door, the card fell from her trembling hand and dropped to the floor unnoticed. She stopped in the middle of the room because she could no longer see. Tears flooded her eyes, streaming down her cheeks. She collapsed to the floor sobbing. Her mournful wailing echoed to every corner of the empty house.

Chapter Two: Hunter or the Hunted?

2010, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Night settled over the Chicago skyline and the city lights sparkled like diamonds. A brisk wind off the lake penetrated Kali Hunter’s jacket sending a chill through her. She stood on top of the Desmond Advanced Technology building dressed in black leather and helmet. She looked at her watch, climbed onto the ledge, took a deep breath and jumped over the side. Descending on a thin wire, like a spider on her silken web, she lowered herself down to the thirtieth floor. Her father had taught her never to look down, but she loved the view of the city from this height. Kali chose the window she wanted and placed shaped charges around the outer edge of the glass. The cold numbed her fingers and she flexed them to get the feeling back. She fastened one last device, a microphone, and touched a button on her wrist. Rising to the top, Kali climbed back onto the roof and activated the headset in her helmet to eavesdrop on Alec Desmond.

ALEC DESMOND WAS MEETING with his security staff in his office. “The upgrades to the security systems is finally up and running.” He paced the floor in front of the line of men. “We’ve installed motion sensors, heat detection sensors and high definition cameras throughout the building. Weight sensors are in the floors of high-security areas. A mouse couldn’t get through without us knowing about it.” “What’s the big deal sir?” asked Pete Templar, Desmond’s head of security. “This building could practically guard itself.” Desmond stalked to his desk and picked up a cigar. “The big deal is Adam North of North Electronics. Ever since we took his research, he’s crying to anyone who will listen that he invented the new X165 Super-Chip. My sources say he’s hired Hunter Recovery to get it back. I’ve crossed paths with Kali Hunter before. She’s smart and resourceful. All these security upgrades won’t do any good unless everyone is giving one-hundred and ten percent. She's beaten me before but she’s not going to get the better of me this time,” he said through gritted teeth. “Now, I want everybody on their toes until we hit the media with the release of the chip next week. The X-165 is going to make every computer on the market obsolete. It’s worth billions for this company. Starting now, no one goes above the fifteenth floor without the proper clearance. I want surveillance 24 hours a day. I don't want you going to the bathroom without someone's eyes on those monitors. I also want all stairwell doors locked above the fifteenth floor, understood?” “But Mr. Desmond,” Templar objected. “It’s against the fire code to lock the stairwell doors.” Desmond spun to face Templar. “Hang the fire code. I pay the fire marshal enough money every year, it’s not him I’m concerned with. It’s Kali Hunter I’m worried about. Gentlemen, man your posts.” Everyone nodded and dispersed to their assignments. Pete Templar remained behind. “Mr. Desmond, I’ve only been with the company about a year now. This Kali Hunter, who is she? A burglar? A con artist? Organized Crime?

“She’s a do-gooder, a goody-two-shoes, a self-righteous Robin Hood. Five years ago, I acquired an advanced pinhole camera from another company who owed me money.” “But you did it legally, right?” “If you’re going to work for me, Templar, you’d better learn one thing. If you want to beat the competition, legality is a word you leave out of your vocabulary.” “Yes sir, I’ll .” “Everybody wanted to get their hands on that camera. Governments, business, even organized crime. It would have meant millions of dollars for this company. Then the inventor hired Hunter Recovery to get it back for him.” “I take it she succeeded.” “See this?” Desmond asked. He pulled down on the left side of his shirt collar and showed Templar and inch long scar. “She did that to you?” “Kali Hunter had ten years of ballet training and ten years studying under a samurai sword master. She’s graceful as a cat, with a pair of katanas for claws. This scar is my reminder. Every day when I shave it reminds me I’m never going to let her beat me again.” “Sir, what do we do if she shows up? Turn her over to the police?” Desmond turned to ire the panoramic view from his window before answering. “I want to deal with Kali Hunter personally.” Templar left and Desmond sat at his desk to light another cigar. Pushing a button, a bank of monitors rose and powered on. Video displays switched between several views of each floor. He could see two uniformed security guards at a desk, their eyes fixed on the monitors. They made occasional comments about what they ate for lunch and the cute secretary with the short skirt and shapely legs. A red light flashed, jolting him out of his reverie. On the monitor, a black-clad

figure ran down a hallway, disappearing around a corner. An excited voice of a guard came over the speaker. “Sir, we have a breach on the twentieth floor.” “Twentieth floor, it can’t be,” came Templar’s reply over the intercom. “Are you positive?” “Yes sir, moving toward the north stairwell door.” “Check the elevators,” Templar ordered. “Are they locked down?” “Yes sir, all elevators are on lockdown...Wait a minute...The stairwell door has been breached. Switching to stairwell cameras.” “What the hell?” Templar growled. “Do you have eyes on the intruder?” “No sir, I don’t see anything.” “There!” the other guard shouted, “Twenty-first floor, moving fast toward the south stairwell door.” The drama unfolded before him and Desmond’s lips formed a sinister smile. “Welcome to my parlor, said the spider to the fly.” Templar’s voice crackled through the speakers. “Dispatch two guards from the twentieth floor up, and station four guards on the twenty-ninth. We'll trap her in between.” Snatching his jacket, Templar entered the hallway, holstered his pistol, grabbed his radio, and ran toward the stairwell door. The dark figure came around the corner and ran toward Templar at full speed. The intruder jumped in a high arc over his head, then rolled and hit the floor running, well beyond his reach and vanished around a corner. “This is Templar, she just ed me on the twenty-fifth floor. How in the hell is she moving so fast? She's heading for the thirtieth floor. Everyone converge on the twenty-ninth floor. I want four guards stationed at stairwell door 29-baker. She does not go above the twenty-ninth floor!”

Desmond stood from his chair, his eyes still glued to the action. He put on his jacket and opened a desk drawer. Taking out a small pistol, he slipped it into the outer pocket of his coat. On the screen, the dark figure sprinted down the hall of the twenty-ninth floor. Rounding the corner, four guards blocked her path with Tasers drawn. Red dots decorated her chest. Turning to retreat, four more guards blocked her escape. Templar soon ed them, radio in hand. Desmond waited for Templar's announcement in the elevator before pressing the button for the twenty-ninth floor. “Sir, we have her at the twenty-ninthfloor stairwell door.” He pressed a button and waited. After a brief pause, the door opened. Desmond walked out with one hand in his pocket while the other held a smoldering cigar. The black leather clung to shapely curves and a tuft of blonde hair peeked out of the helmet. “So, Miss Hunter, to what do we owe the pleasure?” The black-clad figure regarded him without a word. “We both know exactly why you're here.” Desmond blew out a cloud of smoke. “North put you up to this. I took his chip and his research material. He can't prove my company didn't produce it. Now you think you can get it back for him. You got the better of me the last time we met, but not this time, and I've got a score to settle with you.” Desmond strolled over to Templar, opened his jacket and pulled out his pistol. With a quick move, he turned, firing three shots into Kali's chest. The force of the .40 caliber slugs threw her against the wall. She slid to the floor and didn't move. Desmond handed the gun back to Templar. He took a Beretta Nano out of his pocket, cocked it and shot one of the security guards in the shoulder. The man fell to the floor, moaning. He grabbed his shoulder and blood oozed around his fingers, dripping onto the floor. A co-worker quickly took out a handkerchief and placed it over the wound. He pressed down hard trying to stop the bleeding, making him cry out even louder. Desmond handed the gun to Templar. “Now, put the Beretta in her hand. We'll say she tried to shoot her way out and you shot her. With all these witnesses, the

police won't even bother to investigate. Open and shut case.” He looked at Templar and noticed him staring at the wall behind him, his mouth open wide. “What's the matter, Templar? You've never seen a dead body before?” He asked. “I've never seen one stand up.” Templar pointed behind Desmond. He wheeled around to look and his cigar dropped to the floor. Kali just stood there. “Well, Desmond.” She removed her helmet and ran a hand through her longblonde bangs. “Looks like you lose again. I just wanted to see the look on your face. I’m going to have a hard time choosing which picture I'll want to put on my wall. I do know I have your recorded confession, along with the video of you shooting your own security guard.” Desmond snatched the Beretta out of Templar's hand and fired at Kali's head, but with no effect. No bullet hole, no blood, nothing. He marched over and waved his hand through her torso. The image flickered a moment and solidified again. A broad smile spread across Kali’s face. “All right Hunter, where are you?” Desmond shouted. He pointed the gun at the image of Kali and wanted to fire. He knew he would just be putting more holes in the wall. Kali giggled like a school girl teasing a boy. “Now where else would I be? I'm in your office. I'm sorry I can't stay and wait for you. I've gotta fly, bye, bye.” Kali gave a wink and a wave knelt down and pressed a button on her wrist. An explosion startled everyone. Everyone, but Desmond. It could only be the sound of his picture window shattering into chaff. He shoved two guards out of his way, knocking them to the floor, and bolted for the stairwell door. Forgetting he ordered the doors locked, he bounced off it, cursed, and unlocked it with his key card. He bounded up the stairs like a lion chasing prey. Desmond burst into his office and came to a dead stop in disbelief. Particles of glass covered the floor and furniture. The wind whipped the vertical blinds like a woman’s skirt in a stiff breeze. There, in front of the opening, stood Kali fastening the strap on her helmet. He raised the Beretta to fire when Templar and two guards flew in behind him but didn't stop quickly enough. They plowed into his back and the lot of them tumbled onto the floor in a heap.

“This has been fun, but I have an appointment with Adam North, so I have to go.” Kali laughed. Desmond pushed one of the guard’s legs off his head and saw her do a swan dive out of the window. When he finally pulled himself upright, he saw the silhouette of a Dragonfly 334 mini-copter flying away into a full moon. He looked behind his desk and growled. The door to the wall safe was wide open. He didn't need to look inside. He knew the computer chip, all the documentation, as well as his high expectations, had just flown away into the night sky.

KALI SAT BACK IN HER seat and chuckled while watching the security guards chase a holographic image of her. Her brother, Devon glanced over at the screen to take in the action. “When do you think he'll catch on we own the security company that installed all of the equipment in his building?” He asked. “Oh, I think he’ll figure it out soon enough. He isn't as smart as he thinks he is, but he's not stupid. By the way, brilliant idea you had installing the holographic emitters inside the video cameras.” Kali leaned back in her seat and let out a long breath. “Let's get this chip back to Adam North and go home. This evening has been exhausting.”

Chapter Three: The Call

RETURNING HOME, KALI bid Devon goodnight and headed straight for her room. Closing the heavy, ed door and kicking off her shoes, she liked the way her toes sank into the new Persian carpet when she crossed to the floor length mirror, peeling her clothes off leaving them where they hit the floor. Down to her t-shirt and panties, Kali tousled her shoulder-length blond hair. Turning her trim body, she frowned when she noticed the bruises she’d gotten. Kali reached down and inspected the sore spot on her inner thigh where her harness had been. Too tired for a shower, she headed for the bed and fell backward onto the comforter. Staring at the ceiling lost in thought, memories of Desmond massaging her ankle slipped into her thoughts. His gentle touch and wandering hands stirred feelings in her she thought were long dead. It’s such a shame Alec Desmond is wasting his life stealing from other people. I could go for someone like him if circumstances were radically different. Taking over Hunter Recovery after her father’s disappearance had been challenging, to say the least. She didn’t mind being a surrogate mother to her brothers since their mother’s death. She had led recoveries when he went away on diplomatic missions. But, when her dad’s plane crashed, the weight of the world came crashing down on her shoulders. Her eyes grew heavy, she nestled into her pillow and fell asleep. Kali steps echoed off the stone walls of the darkened hallway with only a flickering torch to light her path. Spiderwebs hung everywhere and clung to her clothing. Her steps echoed off the stone walls making it seem as if she was being followed. Lined with doorways, she peered in each opening and noted statues of various gods and goddesses. Their eyes seemed to follow her when she ed by. A voice echoed out of the shadows, calling Kali’s name, sending a chill through her. A bright light ahead in one of the doorways beckoned, drawing her like a moth to a flame. Her feet began moving and the sounds of rushing footsteps behind her spurred her into a full out run. She entered the room where a woman was dancing. But this was no ordinary woman. Her skin was blue and her black hair, swaying with each movement, hung halfway down her back. Four arms moved in time with

enchanting music. The strange woman turned to face her and smiled. Kali gasped and looked into the face of her mother. “My daughter, you must come to me. You need me.” “Mom? How...how do I find you? I don’t understand,” Kali replied. “I will guide you.” Then she vanished. Kali blinked her eyes and when she opened them, a decaying ancient ruin appeared. Shafts of light pierced the darkness and streamed in through cracks in the ceiling. Centuries of dust and bits of stone littered the floor. On each side of the hallway were crumbling stone columns. Between the columns, she saw carved images of the Babylonian god Marduk. The eyes of the idols followed her as she crept along. Two of the columns had toppled to the floor and she had to climb over them. Kali raised her eyes and her mouth dropped open. An immense glowing stone pulsed with power. The color of creamy jade, it stretched from one side to the other. A massive stone staircase led up to it. Before the steps, a stone stele stood prominently. A waist-high pillar with a flat top, it had two palm-sized buttons. She ed the stories told to her by her father’s friend, archaeologist Gunter von Hausen about a relic he called the Evolution Stone that could grant wishes by changing the past. Kali walked up the stairs and the steps formed into hands trying to crush her. Bounding up the stairs out of reach, they missed her by inches. Standing at the top, Kali put her hands on her knees, panting to catch her breath. In front of the pulsing stone stood a three-headed statue. A hideous sight, it stood a head taller than her. Out of its shoulders, the neck split into three parts, ing three individual heads. The one on the right had the face of a lioness. The center head had the face of a woman with long fangs and glaring eyes and horns protruding from her forehead. The third bore the face of a snarling wolf. In its hands were two large sickle swords, held high above the heads forming an ‘X’. When she approached the statue, a brilliant flash of light from the stone blinded her. Kali put her hand up to shield her eyes. When it subsided, she put her hand

down and gasped. The statue stepped down from the pedestal and lumbered toward her. The swords it had held high before were now crossed over its bare breasts. Three growling voices came from the statue and echoed off the walls. “We are Labartu, Labasu, and Akhkhazu. We are the goddess of the underworld, bringer of nightmare and plague, and guardian of the Stone. You have come to touch the Stone. You must first defeat us.” Kali shuddered from the cold chill that ran through her. She wanted to run but her feet wouldn’t move. The idol moved the swords high and brought them down hard. On instinct, Kali back-flipped and landed out of reach of the creature. The swords struck the floor with a loud clang. The sound echoed through the cavern. She looked down to see her katanas in her hands. Before the creature could raise the twin sickle swords, Kali swung her right sword and severed both hands of the creature. Spinning around she brought her left sword around high. It struck the creature at the base of the neck, severing the heads. The idol crashed to the floor and turned to ash and then the glow of the stone became brighter. A stiff wind began to blow and the remnants of the idol disappeared in the increasing gale. Kali fought against the gale and held her hand out toward the stone but felt no heat. She walked to the light that grew in intensity until it seemed to swallow her whole. She could hear a ringing noise grow louder when she drew near. Kali reached out her hand, but instead of touching the stone, she lifted the receiver of a ringing telephone. Knotted in the covers from tossing in her sleep, she fell out of bed and landed on the floor with a thump, dropping the phone. She untangled herself from the blanket, then rubbed her bottom with one hand while she lifted the receiver with the other. "Hello," Kali moaned. "Hallo Kali, are you there? Hallo?” "Gunter? Is that you? Where are you?" "Yes Kali, it is me. I am in Dover, England." "Do you know what time it is?" she grumbled. She brushed her hair out of her

eyes to squint at the clock on the nightstand. "It is nine o’clock in the morning. What are you doing in bed this time of day?" "It’s three a. m. here. Did you take into the six hours difference between Chicago and England?" "Oh, mein, I forgot. My deepest apologies my dear. I was so excited I had to call you straight away." Kali picked herself off the floor and sat on the edge of the bed. Gunter was one of her father’s oldest friends. At one time, he had been a highly respected member of the scientific community. However, his unorthodox theories regarding the Evolution Stone only brought the ridicule of those who once respected him. The mockery he received drove him from ion to obsession. "Kali, I've stumbled upon something. I know it will interest you. Are you still interested in the Evolution Stone?" Kali’s half-closed eyes flew open and her jaw dropped. At one time she hoped finding the Evolution Stone would help her get her father back. The last time she'd heard from Gunter von Hausen, they had spent two weeks in the Libyan Desert pursuing a false lead on the Evolution Stone. Half of the time, they were only one step ahead of a Libyan security force. After Libya, she had given up on the idea. "Kali, are you there?" Gunter asked anxiously. "Yes, I'm here. What did you find?” "I came here to visit an old friend. He's an amateur collector of antiquities. He had acquired a number of stone tablets with Cuneiform writing on them. I've been in his basement for a week now pouring over them. They are the Chronicle of Nebuchadnezzar I have been searching for." "No wonder you’re excited.” She wanted to sound ive, but doubts crept into her mind and she bit her bottom lip. "Yes, yes, it took my breath away when I began to translate the text. I could hardly believe it myself. After all these years, I finally have some evidence of

the existence of the Evolution Stone. These tablets should reveal the location." "What have you learned so far?” “The less I mention over the phone, the better. I’ve had a strange feeling all week someone is watching.” “It must be your friend.” “Nein, he had to leave on business. I am supposed to be here alone.” “So, you’re going after it?” "How can I not? I have spent my whole life searching for it, but we must be very careful." "We? Wait a minute Gunter. I’m happy for you but..." “Kali, please, you cannot say no. I do not know of anyone else to turn to. "What about your friend, the one who purchased the tablets? Can’t he help you?" "He is not a young man. I have not told him of my discovery yet. Besides, he will be gone for a week. I need your help. With the skills your business requires, you are the best one to help me. We need to find it quietly, and we cannot arouse anyone's suspicions. With the kind of power the Evolution Stone has, it would be disastrous if it fell into the wrong hands. We have to find it and figure out how to deal with it." Kali became quiet. Gunter was a dear friend and she hated to let him down. "Gunter, I know you've spent most of your life searching for the stone, I just don’t know if I can get away right now." "Kali please, since I found the text it's all I can think of. I need your help." "I don't know Gunter, I'm not an archaeologist. I know I went with you to Libya but we spent half the time dodging the security patrols. After all that, we came up empty-handed." "Please, you are the only person I can turn to."

Kali tried to think of an easy way to let him down but was speechless. “How long has it been since your father’s plane crashed?” “It was five years ago today. What made you think of him?” “Think of it Kali, you could use the Evolution Stone to change the past. You could bring your father back.” Her heart leaped at the words. It was what she’d wanted for five years now. She closed her eyes and rested her head on her free hand. She couldn’t believe the words when they came out of her mouth. "Alright Gunter, I'll help you. First, we need a complete translation of the text." "I am already a third of the way into it. But it is a slow process. It would go much faster if I had some help." "How long will it take you to go through the rest of it?" “It is why I called. How busy are you?" “I’ll make time,” Kali replied. "You’re sure you haven’t told anyone else about this?" "No, I called you the moment I made my discovery." "When does your friend return?" "He is supposed to return in a week." "Perfect, with any luck we'll be long gone by the time he gets back. I’ll fly in the day after tomorrow, you can pick me up at the airport. "Very good news Kali, it will be so good to see you again." "It'll be good to see you too." Kali hung up the phone and sat there with dozens of thoughts flying through her head. She looked at the clock with heavy eyes. At three-thirty in the morning, she needed to clear her head. There’s no use trying to sleep now. Too much to be done and not much time to do it. I need a shower to wake me up.

She started walking to the bathroom, but something on her chest of drawers caught her eye. An old picture she usually ignored stirred long lost memories. Standing in the yellowed photo, a ten-year-old Kali had been on an archaeological dig with Gunter and her father. The three of them were together with her holding something. She took a closer look and her eyes widened, she stared at the object in her hands and her mouth dropped open. A bronze statuette of a three-headed goddess from her dream glared at her from the picture. She snatched it up, removed it from the frame, and studied it. She turned it over and looked at the back. Her father’s handwriting said Babylon, 1988. She laid the picture on her dresser. There were other pressing issues to deal with now. Kali stepped into the shower. The warm water felt good on her tired muscles. The dream and her conversation with Gunter had her on edge. Trying to make a mental list of what to do first, her mind kept going back to her dream and the photograph. She thought about the day she found the idol. Kali and her father were helping Gunter explore the ruins of Babylon when her shovel struck something hard. She threw the shovel aside and began digging with her hands. Sand flew in all directions until a frightening face came into view. She wrestled it from the sand and called out to her father. Gunter came running to examine her discovery. He turned it over in his calloused hands, expertly assessing the identity of the statue. “This is Labartu, Labasu, and Akhkhazu the goddess of the Babylonian underworld, an evil triune deity. This is a very nice find, but it is not what we are looking for. I already have many artifacts like this. You should take this home and give it to Kali when she is old enough to appreciate it.” Kali’s half-closed eyes snapped open. The idol was in the house! Her father had it in a glass case in his study. After his disappearance, she couldn't bear to look at the room. All the memories it contained were just too painful. She had everything from his study boxed up and put into storage upstairs. Kali flung the shower door open, snatched a towel and struggled to wrap it

around herself and ran from the bathroom. She darted through the bedroom and into the hallway. Bounding up the staircase to the third floor, she hurried down the hall and reached the door she wanted. Kali pushed the heavy door open and went in. She stopped in her tracks and looked around the large room. She didn't there being so many boxes being stored there. There was no way of telling which box contained the idol, so she did the only thing she could do. She grabbed the first box, tore it open and began her search.

Chapter Four: The Idol

DEVON KNOCKED ON KALI’S bedroom door. With no answer, he opened it and peered inside. She wasn't in her bed, but steam billowed out of the bathroom door. "Hey, you’re up early aren’t you?" When no one answered he went to the door and knocked. "Hey sis, I’m getting ready to make myself some breakfast. Do you want something?" Concerned, he peeked around the door. "Kali..." Devon called out. The running shower filled the room with steam, but she was nowhere in sight. Wet footprints went from the shower to the door. Judging by the distance between them she’d left the room in a hurry. He turned off the water, followed her tracks out the door, down the hall, and up the stairs. When he got to the third floor the trail ended. Behind a door, the sounds of a demolition crew alarmed him. Imagining the worst, he threw it open and rushed into the room. "Kali, are you alright?" A book flew past his head and he ducked just in time. It flew out the door and landed in the hallway with a thump. Kali was crouched down, wearing only a towel, rummaging through a pile of items on the floor. "Yes, yes I'm fine, What time is it anyway?" "It’s ten minutes past seven." Devon shook his head and surveyed the room. “Did a bomb go off? Can I help you find something?" Another book sailed through the air and crashed to the floor. Kali stood, contemplating the room. "Yes, I'd love some help." He reached down and stacked some books into a neat pile to put away later. "What are we looking for?" "We're searching for an ancient bronze statue dad had in his study. It’s about so high..." Kali gestured the approximate height with her hands. She moved her

arms and had to catch the towel she still wore after she bolted from the shower. "Perhaps there is one thing I could help you with first." "What?" "Your wardrobe, or should I say your lack of wardrobe? Why don’t you change into something a little more suitable for dismantling a room?" "Tell you what, you stay here and continue the search, I'll go down and put on my room-dismantling clothes," Kali said and winked. Devon rolled his eyes, Kali turned and walked out. He rolled his eyes. "Hurricane Kali strikes again," he sighed. He opened a box and began searching.

KALI RETURNED TO HER room, threw the towel onto the bed, and strode to her dresser, she picked up the old photograph and studied it. The base of the statue wasn’t the usual square or round base. A sunburst design surrounded the feet. Kali dressed and headed back upstairs. When she put her hand on the doorknob, the door opened. "Is this what you were looking for?" Devon held the statue up for her. "Yes, thank you, Devon.” Kali threw her arms around his neck and gave him a quick peck on the cheek. “Where the blazes did you find it? I looked everywhere." "Well you know what they say, it's always in the last place you look. It looked a lot better in the box. You sure you wouldn't rather leave it there?" "Oh no, this old girl gave me quite a go last night in a dream I had." "Dream eh, I'd imagine that thing would cause nightmares." Kali turned to go back downstairs. Her brother hurried to catch up with her. “I’m going to make myself some breakfast, you want something?" "Absolutely, I'm famished." "What would you like?" "Two of everything, I'll be in my study. I've got a trip to plan for." "Where are we headed off to now?" She turned and walked backward a few steps. "England." Kali headed to her study with the statue in hand.

DEVON ENTERED THE STUDY with a tray laden with food. Kali sat at her desk having an animated conversation on the phone. "I know there's red tape, Ollie. There's always red tape. I need to cut through it. That’s why I called you. Do I have to remind you about Lebanon?" She listened to the receiver and motioned for Devon to put the tray in front of her. Setting it on the desk, he snagged a piece of bacon for himself. Kali greedily dug in while listening to Ollie. "Ollie," Kali said. She munched a sausage, holding it like a cigar. "I don't need to hear how hard it is. What I need to hear is that it's done. Call me when everything's ready. You are such a sweetheart, Ollie. I knew I could count on you." Kali hung up the phone and met her brother’s disapproving glare. "What?" she asked, still chewing. "You know, it’s rude to talk with your mouth full. No wonder you don’t have a boyfriend. It’s like living with a wild animal." "Why would I want one of those?" she sneered. “They’re messy, smelly and they’re always underfoot.” “Well, there’s the pot calling the kettle black,” Devon replied. Kali stuck her tongue out at him and reached for some bacon. “So what happened in Lebanon?” Devon asked. “Do you when I had the recovery of the Picasso stolen by a Lebanese crime lord? I was in my hotel room when I heard gunfire down below. When I looked out, I saw a sniper had a small contingent of British Marines pinned down. So I took a potted plant from the balcony and dropped it on the sniper’s head.” “So you saved his life?”

“Yeah, and I love reminding him of it,” Kali said with an impish grin. “Listen, I need your help with something else, Devon. I want you to find all the information you can on Sumerian mythology, pretty please." Kali smiled sweetly and batted her eyelashes. Devon rolled his eyes. "Anything, in particular, you're looking for?" "Gods, goddesses, life, death, life after death, burial customs, everything." “How soon do you need it? "Yesterday would be great. Would you be a dear and fetch Bruce for me? Thanks, you’re a peach." Kali’s eyes grew larger when she directed her attention to her tray. Devon went down the stairs to the basement door. A large sign read ‘The Bat Cave. Enter at your own risk!’ For twins, Devon and Bruce couldn’t be more different. Bruce preferred being around gadgets and machines more than people. He always had three-days growth of beard. Devon, on the other hand, tried to stay somewhere between Kali and Bruce, outgoing like Kali, but more of a bookworm. Devon found the shop in its usual disarray. Bruce liked to refer to it as an organized mess. He was huddled over a project on his workbench. "Bruce, Kali requests an audience with you." He peeked over his shoulder to at his latest project. "I'm almost finished with this little beauty," Bruce said, not bothering to look up from his work. "What are you working on?" Devon asked, musing over Bruce’s shoulder. "Kali's new toy. It's a smartphone, with a few extras. It has infra-red night vision and Doppler mapping. Stand outside an open door, press here and in a flash you know how the room is laid out. More importantly, you know if anyone is inside the room and where they are," he said. He ired it with awe. "Kali is planning something and it's all a bit of a rush. I take it she's going to

want to take her new toy with her. At any rate, she's waiting for you. So, if you're finished tinkering with it, I'd suggest you get it to her straight away.”

KALI TALKED ON THE phone with her feet on the desk. She wore her favorite Cubs baseball cap, a blonde ponytail hanging from the hole in the back. When Bruce came in, she motioned for him to hand her the new handset, listening intently while she ired her new toy. "It's going to have to be ready by tomorrow morning,” Kali said to the person on the other end of the call. “No, tomorrow afternoon won't do at all... Right, good, okay." Kali disconnected the call and continued to examine her new phone while Bruce waited. "So Bruce, what do you think?" "It’s state of the art Kali, everything you asked for." "Did you test it? Underground I mean?" "Yeah, I hacked into the Desmond Advanced Technology mainframe. They have this new software they’re developing for the military called Scan-Track. After getting a fix on your position using GPS, it tracks your movement using your phones gravimeter. I took it into town to the subway. It worked like a charm. I knew right where I was at the whole time." "Excellent, did you enable it to work with my headset?" "Just finishing up when you called, now where did I put it?" Bruce searched all his pockets. Kali shook her head. "Ahem," she cleared her throat and pointed to her ear then to his. Bruce gave her a puzzled look for a moment and finally, he rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Oh, yeah, I forgot," he said and his cheeks flushed red. He took the headset off and handed it to her. "What about the night vision camera and the Doppler?"

“Actually I haven't had a chance to test it yet. I'd just gotten the headset linked up and I wanted to do that next." "Tell you what, you get the lights and I'll get the blinds." Kali tapped the screen a few times, going to the window and lowering the blinds. Bruce went to the door and turned off the lights. The glowing screen maneuvered around the room while moving around the furniture. The imaging program soon formed a map of the room on the screen. The door opened and Devon walked in. "Is there something wrong with the lights?" "It's alright Devon, I’m testing the infrared and Doppler. Go ahead and turn the lights back on Bruce." Kali went back to her desk. Devon went to the window and raised the blinds, letting the sunshine stream in once again. "So, how did it work?" Bruce asked. "Perfect," Kali said. "Limited range on the night vision, about twenty or thirty feet at the most. It'll do nicely." "I have the information you asked for." Devon reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out a smartphone. "I ed all the information into your old phone." "Good, send me the file will you?" Kali said. "The Sumerians had some ghastly customs." Devon tapped the screen. “When a ruler died, his personal bodyguards went to the tomb with him. They committed ritual suicide, had their hearts cut out and sacrificed to the emperor. It guaranteed their devotion to him." "That’s pretty heartless," Bruce said, snickering at his own joke. "And they had quite a plethora of gods and goddesses too,” Devon said, ignoring Bruce’s remark. “Including your nasty little friend there." Devon pointed to the statue on Kali's desk. "She's a trinity actually, three goddesses for the price of one, Labartu, Labasu, and Akhkhazu." "Bless you," Bruce quipped.

Devon shot him a dirty look and continued. "It would seem she's..." "Goddess of the underworld." Kali finished his sentence. Devon looked puzzled. “In addition to many other rather distasteful responsibilities she is also the guardian of a relic of legend. An interest of yours, I believe, the..." "The Evolution Stone," Kali finished his sentence again. "So what is this Evolution Stone again?" Bruce’s eyebrows knotted. "It’s a relic of unbelievable power. Legend says it can grant any wish by changing the past. Everyone thinks it's a fairy tale. However, I think there's a chance it's real. I'm not a believer in coincidence. Everything happens for a reason. Last night I had a dream about the Evolution Stone and this goddess was in it. Then I get a phone call from Gunter. He’s working on translating the Chronicles of Nebuchadnezzar." Kali picked up the statue to examine it. "Did you say, Gunter?" Devon asked. His forehead wrinkled and the corners of his lips turned down. "Gunter von Hausen?" "One and the same," Kali replied. "Isn't he that crazy old archaeologist you followed on a wild goose chase in the Libyan Desert? He nearly got you killed. This is beginning to sound like nonsense." "No, Devon, it’s not nonsense. This time there's hard evidence. If I'm wrong, I get a nice little vacation in England and I can catch up with an old friend." "And if you're right?" Devon asked. "If I'm right..." She stared off into the distance. She didn’t want to it what she really wanted, to get her father back. "If I'm right, I'll cross that bridge when I come to it." Kali couldn't share her feelings with anyone, not yet. They would think she had lost her mind. "You’re holding back Kali, I can tell. What are you planning?"

“Well, Gunter and I will finish translating some old Sumerian tablets he’s come across in England. We’ll see where the clues lead us from there." "Please tell me it's not Libya again." Devon groaned. "I found this idol in Babylon. I have a feeling we'll be paying her hometown a visit. I leave tomorrow morning so I don’t have time to waste." Kali sat the idol on the desk and a few paperclips flew off the desktop, sticking to the base of the statue. She picked up the idol again to examine it closely. “Could there be a lodestone in the base?” Devon asked. “A lodestone is a natural magnet,” Bruce said. “Why would it have a lodestone in the base? “Well, the Sumerians and Egyptians recovered small bits of iron from meteorites. They made spear points and jewelry four-thousand years before Christ. But the Iron Age didn’t officially begin until the twelfth century B.C. So the Sumerians wouldn’t have had large quantities of iron to use with a lodestone,” Devon replied. “It’s possible they would have had enough iron available to use in a locking mechanism.” Kali ran her finger around the irregular base. “I suppose it’s possible. Isn’t this Evolution Stone supposed to be an asteroid? If so, smaller chunks might have broken up while entering the atmosphere. It’s probable they would have found quite a few deposits of iron in the area.” Bruce replied. “I have a feeling this isn’t just an idol. I think it’s a key.” Kali picked the paperclips off the base. “A key to what?” Bruce shrugged his shoulders. “To what indeed?” Kali turned the idol over. “Alright, I have some potential clients to interview while you’re gone," Devon said. He turned and left the room, leaving Kali and Bruce alone.

"Is there anything else you'll need from me, Kali?" Bruce stood. "Let's go to the Bat Cave and you can show me some of your other gadgets." They entered the workshop and Bruce rummaged around muttering to himself. "Ah, here it is. I knew I left this little beauty here." He held up an object. "This is a signal converter for your new phone. Once you clip it on and power it up it converts your cell phone into a satellite phone." "It seems to me I've read something about these, isn't this illegal?" Kali examined the gadget in his hand. "Well, yeah, it is. But since when has that bothered you? Technically, a lot of the things we do aren’t exactly legal. We do steal from thieves." "You've got a point there. What else have you got for me?" "I've got a little something else for your new phone. It's a battery pack inside a belt. It’ll give you about seven days’ worth of power on one charge. All the extra functions your phone has really suck up the juice. Just clip the phone onto your belt here and it will recharge it on the go. I'd hate to see you get caught in the dark." "Nice, anything else?" "Well let's see now, there’s one more thing. Where did I put it?" Bruce walked around the room scratching his head. He picked up a pair of leather gloves and handed them to her. Kali examined them carefully. "What's so special about these?" she asked. "Put 'em on and give it a try.” Kali pulled the gloves on. Except for the extra weight and padding in the palm, she couldn't tell much difference between them and a normal pair of gloves. He reached into his drawer, pulled out a pistol, and placed it on his desk.

"Now, press hard in the middle of the palm, and hold your hand out toward the gun." She pressed her finger into her palm and stretched her hand out. The gun shook at first and flew off the table into her palm. Kali’s gaze moved between the gun and her brother in complete amazement. "I put an electromagnet into the palm of each glove. It has limited range, probably three or four feet at the most. Of course, the heavier the object the closer you'll have to be. It'll make for a pretty fast draw though." "You know I detest guns. But these should work with my katanas." Kali held her hands up and ired the gloves. "These just may come in handy."

Chapter Five: The Theft

A LINE OF MEN AND CAMELS appeared out of the raging sandstorm like ghostly apparitions taking shape. They leaned heavily against the gale throwing a wall of sand nearly a mile high. Goggles protected their eyes, and traditional desert head wraps kept the dust out of their lungs from the Simoom, or poison wind. Kaseem, the leader, guided his men unerringly toward the main gate of the British Marine base with a handheld G.P.S. Near starving and desperate for supplies, they forced themselves onward. Two men lagged behind the group until they were out of sight. They broke away and went in a different direction. Guided by their own G.P.S., they arrived at the perimeter fence behind the main storage hut. With no sentries nearby they began digging in the sand under the fence. Kaseem neared the main gate and Corporal McGregor, safe inside the guard hut, looked up from his magazine. “Hey O’Connell,” he said to his companion. “Looks like Kaseem and his crew are here on a supply run. Be a good lad and go out there and I.D. them.” “Now why would I be wanting to do that when here I am all cozy with Miss September?” O’Connell replied. He held the magazine up sideways and let an extra leaf unfold, his eyes widening at the picture in the magazine. “There’s a helluva storm blowing out there. Is he daft?” “Just because I’m married to your sister is no cause for you to be Mr. Sassypants. Now, never you mind Miss September. I’ll be keepin’ her company until you get back. Just check their I.Ds so I can open the gate and get them out of that storm.” Corporal McGregor held out his hand for the magazine. O’Connell begrudgingly handed it to him, put on his gear and went outside to the gate. Well acquainted with procedure, Kaseem and the others had their identification ready and showed them to O’Connell. Briefly pulling down his mask so his face could be recognized, his front tooth, capped in gold, glinted when he smiled. O’Connell waved to McGregor and the gate slid open. Kaseem and his people had a symbiotic relationship with the occupational forces. Kaseem’s tribe hunted down insurgents who often harassed the military.

In exchange, they kept Kaseem’s tribe supplied with food, medical supplies, and weapons. Kaseem led his group into the base. One of the camels began groaning and pulling away from his handler. Yanking the rope free, the camel ran away into the interior of the base with Kaseem’s men and O’Connell in pursuit. When everyone was distracted, the two men who broke away from the caravan quickly slipped through the door of the supply hut. The storm raged outside like a malevolent god, but in the darkened hut, they moved through the dark stacks of crates with the aid of a penlight. Noting the various numbers stenciled on the boxes, they stopped at a stack marked FM-92. Clenching the lights in their teeth, they pulled down the top box. One of the men reached to open the case when his partner stopped him. He pointed to the second crate in the stack and they pulled it down. They flipped open the latches and opened the lid. Inside packing material, the digital camouflage of the Raytheon Surface-to-Air infrared guided missile would blend well in the desert surroundings. At five feet long and thirty-four pounds, the unit was lightweight but deadly to any low flying aircraft by homing in on the engine heat. They removed the unit from its container, replaced the lid, and re-stacked the boxes. After wrapping the missile in cloth, they moved back to the door. With the commotion of chasing the unruly camel, they cautiously exited the supply hut, slipped around the side to the fence and the hole under it, and vanished like specters into the storm.

Chapter Six: To England

BEFORE THE SUN COULD crest the horizon, Kali gave up on sleep and abandoned her comfortable bed. She dressed, slung her duffle bag over her shoulder, took one final look around her spacious bedroom and headed downstairs. Closing the front door behind her and readjusting the strap of the heavy bag on her shoulder Kali found Devon waiting by the car. “I wish you’d let me go with you on this one, sis. We’re a team. I would feel a lot better if I had your back.” "Now Devon.” Kali put her bags into the trunk of the car. “You know Gunter and you don’t play well together. Besides, you know me. I can handle myself. I’ll be back before you can miss me." “I miss you already.” “I miss you more,” Kali said with a wink. She wrapped her brother in a hug and kissed him on the cheek, then got into her car. She sped away for the airstrip, and her mind filled with questions. Is this going to be another wild goose chase like Libya? What if it’s the real thing? Would it really work like the legends said it would? If it does, what will be the consequences? At the airstrip, she parked her car inside the hangar where the co-pilot met her and took her duffle bags. One bag clunked onto the pavement. His cheeks reddened with embarrassment. "Archaeological equipment," Kali said. Her lips curled slightly. He hefted the strap onto his shoulder and grunted under the load. Shafts of sunlight pierced the trees lining the airstrip. They stood like ghostly sentinels shrouded by the early morning fog. Cool air nipped at her cheeks and the light twinkled between the branches. Fog enveloped the woods and Kali’s blood ran cold. Ancient soldiers emerged from the mist, standing tall as the trees and dressed in black armored breastplates, vambraces, and greaves. Their conical helmets, polished circular shields, and lances glinted light from the morning sun. They turned their heads in unison and give her a menacing look, but instead of eyes, only black holes

glared at her. Their emaciated lips curled back in an eternal grimace. Kali tried to turn and run, but her feet refused to move. A hand on her shoulder jolted her out of her trance and she gasped. She spun her head and stifled a scream, glaring wild-eyed at the co-pilot. “Miss Hunter, I’m sorry I startled you, but we’re ready for takeoff,” he said. When she turned back, the soldiers were no longer there, only wisps of sunlight and mist weaving their way through the branches. Kali boarded the jet, got herself a bottle of water, and sat down to get ready for takeoff. Once they were in the air, she took out her phone to finish reading the information Devon had found on Sumerian life, or rather, Sumerian death. But, the fatigue from her sleepless night and the drone of the engines took their toll and she was soon asleep. Kali awoke to the pilot calling frantically on the radio. “Mayday, mayday! This is flight delta-six-niner-tango-niner. We have lost engine one. We are losing altitude. We have no visual on a landing site. Please advise.” Her heart raced, her breathing quickened. Outside the window and a violent storm seethed. Lightning flashed all around the aircraft. The crack of thunder made her ears ring. Outside the window, smoke and flame spit out of the engine causing the wing burst into flames. “Pilot, the wing just caught fire!” Kali screamed. She gripped the armrests so tightly her knuckles were white. When there was no reply, she unbuckled her belt and ran to the cockpit. Opening the door, she stood in shock. No one sat in the seats. The craft hurtled blindly through the clouds. Lightning flooded the cockpit with illumination, and thunder shook the cabin. “Have a seat and don’t worry Kitten, everything’s going to be alright.” The voice sent a chill down her body. Kali turned and her mouth dropped open. Her father sat next to her, calmly reading a magazine. “DAD! What....Where...I...” “Aww, what’s the matter kitten? Cat got your tongue?” Jackson looked over his magazine and smiled.

“How did you get on this plane? What’s happened to the pilots? What’s going on?” Kali’s brow knotted. Her hands gestured wildly toward him, the cockpit and the flaming wing outside. “Some men came to the house five years ago and told me your plane crashed. They said there were no survivors. How can you be here? She knelt beside him, burying her face in his shoulder. He put his hand around her and stroked her hair. He always knew how to calm her down. “But how did you get on the plane? Are you going with me to see Gunter?” “Shh, too many questions. The important thing to is that I’m always with you. No matter where you are.” Kali’s tried to blink away the tears, she dried her cheeks with the back of her hand. She tried to speak but the lump in her throat choked out the words. The plane nosed downward and Kali jumped from her father’s embrace and went to the cockpit. The plane was hurtling toward the ocean. A hand shook her shoulder. "Miss Hunter, we've landed in Dover, Great Britain. There’s a driver waiting for you." Kali sat up, still shaken from her dream it took a moment before the words penetrated the fog. She rubbed her eyes and sat staring while her racing heart slowly returned to normal. "Thank you, where's my gear?" "We've already loaded it into the car for you Miss Hunter. We have orders to standby for you and a guest to travel in five days." "Very good, we'll see you then." Kali walked to the door and took a deep breath. The air was clean and fresh compared to the Chicago airport. Wisps of clouds littered the blue sky and the air was cooler than back home. Her heart leaped when she waved at the man waiting for her. A large, well-tanned gentleman in his mid-sixties stood next to the car. He wore a broad smile beneath a bushy mustache. Kali flew down the ramp, ran up to Gunter and threw her arms around him. "It's so good to see you, Gunter. It’s been too long." "Far too long my child, far too long.” Gunter put his large arms around Kali in a bear hug. “I was afraid you would never speak to me again after Libya." He

released her and held her at arm’s length, looking her over. "All is forgiven,” Kali said, relieved she could breathe again. “Now tell me about these tablets. I want to hear everything." "It is an unusual set of circumstances.” Gunter’s shining eyes conveyed his excitement. He opened her door and let her slide into the enger seat. Getting behind the wheel, he turned the key and the Jeep roared to life. He filled Kali in while he drove. “A French businessman bought an estate in the countryside near Paris. It had been purported to be a country retreat for Napoleon himself.” “The Napoleon? As in Bonaparte?” She raised her eyebrows. “Yes, the new owner wanted to re-do the garden, so he instructed the gardener to pull out all of the paving stones and haul them away. The gardener turned one over and found it covered with strange inscriptions. He thought they might be worth something, so he went to a local museum to try to sell them. My friend happened to be visiting and saw the tablets. He offered the man some money, brought the tablets home, and put them in his basement. Because he could not translate the text, he called me to examine them. The next day he received a call and left on business, leaving the house in my keeping." "According to legend, Napoleon was the last one to use the Evolution Stone,” Kali said. “Ingenious, to hide them in plain sight. Well, it's certainly all worked in our favor. How far do we have to go before we finish the translation?" "It has been a slow process working alone. Now that you are here it will go much faster. We should be finished in four days with your help." "Excellent, what have you found out so far?" "I left all of my notes back at the house, but it appears the tablets chronicle the life of Nebuchadnezzar II. You know, that was his Babylonian name. In Chaldean, he is known as Nabak-udur-utser. According to the story, he began life quite differently than history records it. He was born into a poor nomadic family.” "This is so great, Gunter. After all the years you’ve spent searching you’re finally getting close.” Kali patted his shoulder. “We need to finish this translation and then we're going to find this stone. But we have to be careful. No one can

know of the stone's existence. If anyone, and I mean anyone, should get wind that the Evolution Stone is real, of the power it has..." Kali’s voice trailed off and her eyes glazed momentarily. Gunter let her words sink in. “I cannot imagine what could happen if the wrong people were to get their hands on such a powerful artifact. Nebuchadnezzar wished to be king of a world power and he ruled the known superpower of his day. Legend tells the same happened with Alexander the Great and Napoleon. What if some power crazed psychopath got his hands on it?” She sat in silence for the final few minutes of their trip. "Ah, we are here." Gunter pulled into the driveway of a small country estate. A beautiful two-story brick home sat in an idyllic rural setting. Stately trees bordered both sides of the long driveway. They pulled up to the front of the house and Kali ired the architecture. She estimated the home to be at least a century old. Manicured hedges lined a flower garden with a bubbling fountain gracing the center. The car came to a stop, and Gunter got out and opened the back. Kali pulled out one of her bags while Gunter reached for the other. "Not that one, Gunter," she said. "We won't need it until we get where we're going." Gunter took Kali to an upstairs bedroom and put her bag on the chest at the end of the bed. "You will be comfortable here." "I don't look to be getting much sleep, not till we get those tablets translated. May I see them now?" she asked. "I knew you would ask. Come, I will show you." Gunter walked to a full-length mirror and pulled on the light fixture hanging next to it. With a soft click, the mirror swung open, revealing a spiral staircase. Gunter went down the stairs and Kali followed. When her foot left the top step, the mirror closed behind them. At the bottom of the stairway, there was a twoway mirror. Gunter pushed a button on the wall and the swung open. The odor of old papers and damp stone filled her nostrils. Fluorescent lighting hummed and illuminated the rows of metal shelving lining the walls. The shelves contained artifacts from all over the world. Fragments of pottery and bone, coins of bronze, iron, silver, and gold sat in organized rows. Kali stopped

to ire a collection of knives, swords, and shields. She picked up a bronze sickle sword, similar to the one from her dream. Even though it was centuries old, she ired its beauty. The pommel bore the head of a lion with fangs bared and the tail wrapped around the sword to form the hilt. In the middle of the room sat a large, well-lit workbench with what she estimated to be about fifty stone tablets. “So these are the Chronicle of Nebuchadnezzar.” Kali gingerly picked up a tablet and ran her hand along the weathered side. The wear of exposure to the elements for nearly two-hundred years was obvious. Turning it over, she traced the lines of cuneiform script etched into it. “These were written by the hand of Nebuchadnezzar himself?” Kali was short of breath. “I tell you, Kali, in all my years of scientific discovery, I have never held anything more beautiful,” Gunter said. “But come, we have much work to do. Tell me, girl, I taught you some Chaldean when we were in Babylon. How much do you ?” “I was only 10 years old at the time. I can make out a little of the writing, but to tell you the truth, I don’t much. I’m afraid I’ll have to leave the translation up to you.” “Very well,” Gunter grumbled. “I will translate and you can write down what I say in my notebook.” He invited Kali to take a seat nearby where his notes sat. Kali flipped page after page, studying his scribbles while Gunter adjusted the large magnifying glass. He picked up a tablet, and read the text slowly while Kali made notes. For three days they worked for hours at a time and seldom ate until one or both of them just couldn't go on any longer. They would get a few hours sleep and go right back to work again. Gunter groaned as he lifted another heavy tablet. Kali looked up from her notes when he didn’t begin reading. His heavy eyelids widened and he held his breath. “Gunter, what is it? Is something wrong?” She threw the notebook on the table and sat bolt upright. “Kali, this is it. This is the part of the journal we have been looking for. Please, take this down.”

She snatched up the paper, took her seat and waited, breathless, for him to recite the text.

I, NABAK-UDUR-UTSER, awoke to a burning sun climbing in the sky. Rising, I took count of the flock my father, Nabopolassar, left in my charge. One was missing. Counting again to be certain, one had wandered away during the night. Not wishing to face the wrath of my father, I ordered my brothers take the flock home. Likely, the ram that was missing scented water in the night and went to find it. The blistering sun beat down, baking my flesh. I am the strongest of my brothers, yet the sun steals my energy while I follow the tracks toward some hills in the distance. Assyrian raiding parties posing as tax collectors roam the plains looking for Chaldeans to steal from. If they find me alone, I will be in grave danger. My family is continually on the move in an attempt to avoid them. Pasture grounds and water are increasingly difficult to find. The dry season is long, and the winter rains are still months away. I drained the last of the water from my skin bag and relish it as it slides down my parched throat. Wiping the sweat from my brow, I strode in the direction of the hills in the distance. The pounding of horses hooves from behind startled me, my heart pounded. Several riders in the distance bore down on me. I am skilled with my spear and could fight off one or two, perhaps three, but not all of them. I forced my weary legs to move and sprinted to the hills while the scorching afternoon sun sapped my strength. When I, at last, reached cover, I was near exhaustion. With the horsemen closing in, I desperately searched for a hiding place. My lungs burned from the hot summer air. I climbed the hillside and found an opening. Impossible to spot from the ground, it could fit a large animal. This would make a good hiding place. Getting on my hands and knees, I crawled into the cave. The late-afternoon sun illuminated the opening, revealing a darker age inside. I must find a place to hide in case the soldiers discover the entrance, so I pressed deeper inside. The light faded and it took some time for my eyes to adjust to the darkness. Every shadow fired my imagination to what danger lurked in the bowels of the earth. I ed stories of how the god Marduk defeated the goddess Tiamat and banished her to the underworld in the form of a dragon. Blackness forced me

to slow my pace. My hands groped over the rough rock wall and gasped when my feet slid over the moist, moss-covered stone. The cooler air felt refreshing on my sun-baked flesh. Moving deeper into the cavern, the trickling of running water reached my ears. My eyes adjusted to the darkness and I could just make out a narrow path leading downward. The cavern opened to a yawning, gloomy expanse. Inching forward, an eerie glow replaced the natural light coming from deep within. An underground river flowed through the cave floor, ran for some distance, and disappeared beneath the wall. At the river bank, the lost animal, a large ram, stood in the water drinking. I decided to fill my skin bag, wait in the darkness, and hope the marauders would lose interest and go away. Kneeling by the river, I immersed my bag in the water. The strange glow off in the distance caught my attention, far beyond the other side of the river. I thought it odd the light grew brighter and dimmed again. It was like a resting heartbeat. With a loud splash, the ram vanished. The water rippled where the animal had been. Movement in the water sent a chill through my body. The water exploded and the largest crocodile I had ever seen lunged for me. Rows of sharp teeth snapped like a deadly trap. This must be Tiamat. Stumbling backward, I tripped, falling behind a pile of slippery rocks. I landed on unforgiving stone and pain shot through my body. My heart hammered. The creature was so close I could touch it. It snapped its massive jaws and backed away. Closing my eyes, I held my breath and waited. Mustering the courage to raise my head, the beast retreated into the water, its gaping maw still open. For several minutes, I lie still wondering if I faced greater danger from this monster or the marauders outside. I took slow deep breaths, trying to calm myself. The pulsing green light caught my attention again. I came to my feet and wondered what it could be. I had laid out many a night gazing up at the twinkling stars and labored many a day under a blazing sun. But nothing had ever compared with this. I recalled stories from childhood sitting on my grandfather’s knee. He told me about a great glowing stone that could grant one’s fondest wish. I dreamed about one day finding it and wishing I would be a king. But when I grew older, I lost faith in the stories as tales to entertain children. Then voices came from above and caused my breath to catch. Two men called to

their companions, telling them they were going to investigate a cave. I laid back in the hollow and watched. The two men clumsily made their way down the path, cursing every time their feet slipped on the treacherous path. When they reached the water, without hesitation, they lay on their bellies to drink. It only took a moment before the water churned and one of the soldiers disappeared, his brief scream drowned out by the dark water. The other soldier recoiled in horror and backed away. I eased from my hiding place. If I could catch the soldier unaware, I could push him into the water. Then, with the beast distracted, I could safely cross the river. Creeping forward, my foot slipped and I stumbled. Alerted, the man spun around, drew his sword, and charged at me. He raised his sword to strike, but before he could, I drove the blunt end of the spear into his stomach. He staggered back and gasped for air, swinging his sword blindly, hitting only air. I hit him in the head with the haft of the spear. He let out a loud moan and staggered, dropping his weapon. I drove my spear into the ground, swung my body and landed both feet into the man’s chest. He fell into waist deep water and struggled to stand. A terrified look came over his face. His scream echoed off the stone walls before he disappeared into the blackness. Energy surged through me, and I dove into the water. Reaching the other side, I clambered out and ran. Behind me, more voices echoed off through the chamber. The rest of the soldiers were calling for their companions. Arrows whistled past me, and I took cover behind a boulder. The soldiers stood in the water shooting at me. One of them let loose a shout when he went under. They began firing into the water, but the arrows only bounced off the crocodile’s thick armor. The animal simply waited for the next man foolish enough to get too close. I turned my attention again to the pulsing green light, a massive stone with the appearance of creamy jade was embedded in the rock face. I began climbing a rocky ledge to reach it. An arrow bounced off the rock, causing me to lose my grip. I turned and a soldier managed to escape Tiamat. He pulled out another arrow. I climbed faster, I had to reach the stone. The tip of an arrow grazed my arm. The wound burned like fire, but I pulled myself up. Another arrow flew just above my head. The intensity of the light from the stone grew the closer I came to it. I used my hand to shield my eyes, but the light was too bright. I turned my head away. The

soldier let another arrow fly. This time it flew straight for my chest. When I placed my hand on the Stone, the arrow froze in mid-flight. A gale-force wind tore through the chamber, picking up rocks and hurling them into the walls, dashing them to pebbles. The arrow turned to dust and blew away with the wind. The soldier reached for another one, and his eyes went wide. The bow he held dissolved. He held his hands before his eyes and watched them turn to ash. Opening his mouth to cry out, before the sound left his mouth, he disintegrated and blew away. I took a deep breath, held my fist aloft and shouted above the din, “I am Nebuchadnezzar, I wish to be the ruler of Babylon, the mightiest kingdom in the world!” The intensity of the light engulfed the cavern and I nothing more. I awoke the next day in my royal palace. I commanded that a great temple dedicated to Marduk, the chief god of Babylon, be built over the stone in order to hide its location. And a grand burial chamber will be built for me, secured for all eternity by my bodyguard. The stone will be protected by Tiamat, goddess of the deep, and by Labartu, Labasu and Akhkhazu, goddess of the underworld.

GUNTER STOPPED READING, a smile spread across his face. His hands trembled holding the heavy stone tablet and he had to put it down. “Mien God, Kali. This is it. This is what I have been searching for all my life. Finally, we know the location of the Evolution Stone.”

Chapter Seven: Preparation

ON THE FOURTH DAY, Kali and Gunter worked on the last tablet. The hour grew late and both of their eyes were heavy. Gunter stretched his arms over his head and yawned. “Shall we get some rest and pack up in the morning?” Kali froze. “Did you hear something?” With the rush of adrenaline, the tiredness left her. Tires crunched gravel in the driveway and a car door shut. She held her finger to her lips for Gunter to be silent. The hinges of the front door creaked and soft footsteps walked across the wood floor above them. “Could that be your friend?” Kali whispered. “He is not due home for another couple of days.” Gunter shook his head. She grabbed a ceremonial knife from a nearby shelf, testing the edge with her thumb. It wouldn’t cut anything, but an intruder wouldn’t know that. “Gunter, go up the main stairs,” Kali whispered. “Stop at the door and wait. On my signal, turn on the lights.” Kali headed for the two-way mirror and activated the mechanism. She slipped into the stairwell and stepped carefully on each step, silently making her way up to the bedroom. When she put her weight on the top stair, the mirror swung open and she entered the room. Downstairs, the old house had creaking wood floors that gave the intruders location away. Staying just out of sight, she crouched low, creeping along to the upstairs railing. Slowly ri, she looked below into the darkened room. Moonlight poured in through the windows casting an eerie glow throughout the room. Her eyes adjusted to the dim light until she located a shadowy figure moving about the room. Judging by his dress and hair it looked like a man, but it was difficult to be sure. Tiptoeing, he went to the hall table beneath her and began going through the mail. Kali gripped the knife tightly in her hand and leapt over the railing, nearly landing on top of the intruder. She wrestled him to the floor, put the knife to his throat and called for Gunter to turn on the lights. "What the blazes is going on?” the man cried out. Kali winced from the bright lights. Gunter ran into the room. "Kali, Kali are you alright?"

She rolled over to show the man's face to Gunter. “I caught him going through the mail. Do you recognize him?" Gunter’s eyes bugged out for a moment. Then he burst out into hearty laughter. "Gunter, what in the hell is so funny?" Kali asked. After he composed himself, Gunter managed to speak. "Kali Hunter,” he said between giggles. “This is our host, Edmond Livingston." Kali’s gasped and she dropped the knife. She let Edmond go and offered her hand to help him up. She was a little surprised at the strength of his grip when he pulled himself up. Kali craned her head back when he stood a head taller than her. "I'm so sorry, Mr. Livingston. I thought you were an intruder,” she said. “I’m fine, really.” Edmond straightened his clothing. His full head of hair had an even dusting of salt and pepper. He stood bolt upright with the trim frame hinting to Kali he had military training. “So you’re Kali Hunter,” Edmond said. He ran a hand through his tousled hair. “Gunter has told me so much about you. He looks on you like the daughter he never had, you know. I'm so pleased to finally meet you.” Edmond shook Kali's hand vigorously. “I know I wasn't supposed to be back for a few days, but I finished my business early and thought I'd come home and see how Gunter is getting along.” "Mr. Livingston, this is your home.” Kali knelt to pick up the scattered mail. “Why did you come sneaking in? I thought you were a prowler. I could've hurt you. Are you sure you’re alright?" “Yes, yes, my dear, I'm fine. Rather reminds me of the old days in the Royal Air Force. Hand-to-hand combat and all.” Edmond did a karate chop in the air to an imaginary opponent. “No, don't concern yourself about me. I'm terribly sorry for startling you. I'd imagined Gunter was in bed, and I didn’t want to wake him. It appears I wasn't very quiet after all. Oh well, no harm done. Except for a bit of a bruised ego,” He said with one eyebrow raised. “Come, my friends.” Edmond put his arms around Gunter and Kali and herded them toward the den. “All this excitement has made me thirsty. You both look like you need some refreshment.

Would you fancy a drink?” Edmond pointed them toward two plush, brown leather couches. The matching couches faced each other with a coffee table in between and a small bar close to one end. Gunter and Kali chose one and sank into it. He walked to the bar to prepare their drinks, leaving her wondering what story they could make up about the tablets. “What do we tell him about the tablets?” Gunter mouthed to Kali. With Edmond busy behind the bar, she gave Gunter a blank look and shrugged her shoulders. “Gunter, I know what you like, old friend, but Kali, tell me, what can I get for you, my dear?" “A glass of wine would do nicely, thank you. Port, if you have it." Kali ired the artifacts that were everywhere in the room. “This is quite an impressive collection you have here,” Kali said. “Please, Kali, call me Edmond,” he said with a wave of his hand. “How did you manage to acquire them?” “Oh, I have some friends in the right places,” Edmond said with a wink. He set three glasses on the bar. “I frequent many of the museums in England and , thanks to Gunter for introducing me to several curators. The smaller museums just don’t have the cash influx the large metropolitan ones have. So, it doesn’t take a lot of convincing to get them to sell their lesser important pieces. Did you know most all museums have larger collections in their basement than they do on display?” “As a matter of fact, I do.” Kali put a hand on Gunter’s shoulder. “Gunter managed to get me into the basement of the Field Museum once. “It’s amazing what they had hidden away down there.” “Ah, I must in case I get to Chicago,” Edmond said. He pointed to the small statue on the next shelf. “Now, take this statue there, the one in the middle. I’m particularly pleased with this piece. What do you make of her?” Kali leaned forward to study it before speaking. “Well, she’s naked, she has

wings on her back, a crown on her head and claws for feet. Is it Ashtoreth?” “Ashtoreth, Astarte, Ashera, it all depends on what region you’re in, but you’ve nailed it. Consort of Ba’al, goddess of fertility. Several of the pieces on the shelf are different styles of her.” Edmond gestured to several other statues. “I’m impressed Edmond,” she said. She looked around the rest of the room. “I have to say since the light in here is absorbed by the dark ing, it gives off a bit of an unnerving feeling with all of the eyes staring at you doesn’t it?” Edmond laughed and carried glasses to the table before them. “Yes, I suppose it does, now that you mention it.” He handed her a wine glass and gave Gunter a mug of lager before taking a seat on the couch opposite them. “Please, drink up, relax. Now, tell me, Gunter, how are you getting on with those old Sumerian tablets I left you with?" “Well, it has been tedious work, which is why I asked Kali to come to help me. She and her father ed me on a dig at Babylon many years ago. I taught her a little of the Sumerian language. When I began translating the tablets, I knew she would be interested in them.” Gunter took one gulp from his mug, swallowed, and took another drink. Edmond took a sip from his scotch, the ice tinkling in the tumbler when he set it on the table. “So, Kali, how has it been going?” “Wellll.” She stared into her glass, trying to avoid looking Edmond in the eye. “We've just finished, actually.” Kali ran her finger around the rim of the wineglass, making it sing. “We’ve been working the clock around." “Yes, my friend, this is a welcome respite,” Gunter added. Edmond took another drink and contemplated the golden liquid swirling inside the glass. “Well then, old chap, what are they all about? Does it appear they contain any useful information?" Gunter took a long drink from his beer. “They appear to be a journal, a diary if you will,” Kali said. “It seems they were written by a shepherd, a nomad wandering with his family. Nabak-udur-utser was his name,” Kali noted.

Edmond’s brow furrowed for a moment. “Hmm, interesting, fancy a lowly shepherd keeping such an extensive journal of his day to day travels. And, on such an inconvenient writing medium too. But, wouldn’t a common shepherd be illiterate?” Edmond got up to pour another round of drinks. Kali swirled the wine in her glass and watched the light reflect off the fluid. “No, actually that’s a misconception taken from the Dark Ages between the tenth and eleventh centuries. The church wanted people illiterate so they could better control them. People caught reading a Bible were sometimes burned at the stake with it chained around their neck. But, in ancient times, especially when Egypt became the world power, archaeologists have uncovered writings on pot-shards. Common laborers working on the pyramids wrote those. They go back to 2589 B.C.E. They pre-date our shepherd by nearly two thousand years.” “Fascinating Kali,” Edmond said. He refilled her glass. “So our shepherd, Nabak-what’s his name...” “Nabakuder-utser.” “Ah, yes, Nabakuder-utser, he would likely be able to read and write.” Kali watched his face and body language, trying to detect if he believed her or not. She hadn’t lied to him, she just left out the part about the shepherd’s other name being Nebuchadnezzar. “Well, Kali, it’s just possible you might be right.” Edmond’s eyes went distant. He looked down at his own empty glass. “Gunter, you've finished your drink, do you fancy another? And how about you, Kali, can I get you some more wine?” Gunter nodded in the affirmative and Kali slid her glass across the table for more. “Well, Kali, I certainly hope you don't feel like you've wasted a trip. It seems a shame to come all the way from America just for a simple shepherd's diary.” “Oh, no, of course not,” Kali said. She waved her hand in the air. “Gunter is like family. I’ve known him my whole life. Besides, I needed a change of scenery anyway.” Kali relaxed thinking she might have thrown Edmond off the importance of the

tablets. “It's such a pity they’re not valuable. Gunter was so excited when I first told him of the tablets. Did he tell you the story of how I acquired them? It's really quite interesting.” “Yes, he told me they were used for stepping stones in a garden. It ought to tell you how important someone thought they were.” She said, trying to downplay the matter. “Not just any garden my dear. A home rumored to belong to Napoleon himself.” Edmond held a finger in the air to make his point. “It makes one think he had tried to hide them in plain sight.” “They couldn't have been important or they would have been buried or locked away, not out in the open like they were.” “If all you've found so far is a shepherd’s journal, I must say, it’s disappointing. I’d rather hoped they might be of some value, historically speaking. Maybe even lead to some magnificent find, like a tomb of some importance,” Edmond said. Kali relaxed and let out a soft sigh of relief. Her eyelids were heavy, the lack of sleep had caught up with her. Gunter let out a loud yawn sounding like a sleepy bear. “You know Edmond, it has been a long day. I think I could use a few hours of sleep,” Gunter said. “Sounds like a good idea,” Kali said. “Sleeping in a soft bed would be nice for a change. Edmond, if you'll excuse us I believe we'll retire for the night. Thank you so much for your hospitality and I do hope you forgive me for attacking you.” “Think nothing of it, my dear. No harm done. I'm just happy to meet the young woman Gunter thinks so highly of.” Edmond stood and stretched. “I believe I've had enough excitement for one day. I'll amble off to bed myself. Good night you two.” Kali and Gunter turned and walked out of the room. “Kali, do you think he suspects anything? I hate to be dishonest with him.”

“I believe we’ve convinced him, Gunter.” Kali patted him on the shoulder. “Believe me, it’s for the best that we keep this between us. And besides, we've been working hard. We can relax tomorrow. The plane will be ready the day after and we can be on our way.” Kali reached her bedroom door and bid Gunter good night. After kicking off her shoes, she fell into the bed and blew out a long breath. A hot shower would be relaxing. But before she could move, she closed her eyes and fell asleep.

Chapter Eight: An Eventful Flight

KALI AWOKE WITH SUNLIGHT warming her face. She stretched like a cat and the growling in her stomach reminded her how much she needed a hearty breakfast and a long overdue shower. Gunter certainly couldn’t cook and she wasn’t much better. Burnt toast and weak coffee had gotten tiresome after the first day. Her thoughts drifted to the translation and she gasped. What did I do with the notes? If Edmond reads them he’ll know we were misleading him.

She tried to jump out of bed but her feet were tangled in the sheets and tumbled onto the floor. Still dressed from the night before, she tiptoed barefoot across the room. Pulling on the light fixture, the mirror swung open and hot stale air from the secret age washed over her. Creeping down the stairs, she stopped at the bottom and peered through the two-way glass. Early morning light from a high east window pierced the shadows blanketing the room. Kali started to open the when a shadow moved. Someone was flipping through the pages of the translation. Startled, she gasped. The person froze a moment, then looked around. Kali threw the open and rushed into the room. The intruder dropped the notes and ran to the opposite wall. A hidden opened and a man ran through it. Kali caught the door just before it snapped shut and threw it aside. Another door at the top of the steps swung free, flooding the stairwell with light and the intruder rushed out. Kali bounded up the steps two at a time and put her shoulder to the door before it slammed shut and she ran outside. Blinded by the bright sunlight, she squinted and shielded her eyes with her hand. The man was nowhere in sight, but the crashing of trash cans in the back of the house told her where he went. Kali sprinted around the house. The man ran for the tall hedge. Picking up a trashcan lid, she hurled it like an Olympic discus thrower. The metal disk quickly covered the space between them, hitting him in the back of the head. He hit the ground face first, skidded to a stop and didn’t move. Kali planted her right foot in the middle of his back. She pulled his right wrist

firmly upward and waited for him to stir. He moaned and spit grass out of his mouth. Kali twisted his wrist. “Who are you and what were you doing in the basement?” “My name is Adjay and I work for Mr. Livingston.” The whine in his voice made Kali’s skin crawl. “He is away on business and I wanted to know who was in his house. I thought you might be robbers.” “You’re lying, Edmond came home last night.” She twisted his arm harder. Adjay cried out, beating the grass with his free hand. A glint of gold on his back caught Kali’s eye. “What do we have here?” She pulled a long knife with a curved blade from its sheath. Adjay kicked and caught Kali’s left knee, buckling it. She fell back and the knife flew behind her. She hit the ground hard, wincing in pain. Adjay jumped to his feet like a cat and leapt toward Kali. She grabbed his wrist, put her feet against his stomach and pushed upward. He went flying through the air and landed on his back. He gasped for air. After a long moment, he let out an agonized moan. Kali grabbed his arm, flipped him over and put her knee in his back. Scooping his knife from the ground, she pulled his hair and put the blade under his nose. “If you try anything like that again, I’m going to cut you up into little pieces and leave you to feed the birds.” Adjay managed a slight nod of his head. “I swear to you, I did not know Mr. Livingston had returned. He did not tell me he had someone staying here.” “We’ll see, now get up.” Kali released him and stood. Adjay slowly got to his feet. “Now march.” Kali gestured to the back of the house. They entered the kitchen and the delicious smell of bacon and eggs cooking filled the air. Edmond busied himself at the stove, humming while he flipped eggs in the skillet. He acknowledged them with a broad smile. “Well good morning Adjay, Kali. How is everyone this morning?” His smile quickly vanished when Kali pushed Adjay onto a stool and held a knife on him. “Adjay, have you been bothering this young woman?” Before the caramel-skinned young man could answer, Kali broke in. “I went

downstairs to grab the translation notes when I caught him going through them.” Kali gestured toward Adjay. “He claims he didn’t know you were back and he thought someone had broken into the house.” Edmond winced. “I knew I there was something I forgot to do last night. My memory certainly isn’t what it used to be. I do apologize, Kali. This whole misunderstanding is my fault. I completely forgot, with last night’s excitement and all. I didn’t let him know I had come home early.” “So, he does work for you?” Kali didn’t take her eyes off Adjay. “Indeed, he does. I met him in at the museum where I purchased the tablets. He had escaped Iraq during the war. It seems the crazy dictator attempted to exterminate his people. This place is so big and I needed help, so I hired him and brought him home. He lives in the cottage at the back of the property.” “He ran out a secret age leading outside. Just how many of those are there?” Kali crossed her arms. “Oh, there are several. They wouldn’t be secret if I told you about all of them, now would they?” Edmond chuckled. My great-grandfather built this house. It seems he had a fondness for them. I growing up how much fun they were. Popping in and out of rooms, sneaking up on people.” “Edmond, is this from your collection?” She handed the blade to him. He held it up and ired it. The head of an eagle formed the pommel and the outspread tail feathers made up the hilt. “No, this belongs to Adjay. He’s had it since I met him. I’d love to have it in my collection. It’s certainly beautiful.” Edmond handed the knife back to Adjay. “Thank you, Mr. Livingston. I am sorry, miss. When you took the blade, I panicked. It has been in my family for generations. It is all I have left to them.” Reaching behind his back, Adjay slid the blade into the sheath. “Good morning all.” Gunter entered the room. “What is going on? Is everything alright?” Kali’s fingers drummed on her arm. “I caught Adjay, here, in the basement going through the translation.”

Gunter snarled and moved toward Adjay. “Just what were you doing down there? Those notes are none of your business.” Gunter stood over him, his fists clenched. He was a head taller, twice as broad and his arms were bigger than Adjay’s leg. Edmond stepped in between them. “Now, now Gunter. I’m sure Adjay meant no harm. He was merely curious. Weren’t you Adjay?” Edmond patted Gunter on the arm. “I forgot to let him know I came home early and he thought you might be intruders. Now, why don’t we all sit down to a nice breakfast, shall we? Kali, you sit here.” Edmond pointed to a chair. “Gunter you take the seat at the opposite end.” One by one Edmond placed plates of hot food in front of everyone. “So, this Evolution Stone business certainly sounds exciting. Are we planning an expedition to go find it?” Edmond’s eyes twinkled with excitement. Gunter coughed and chunks of egg flew across the table. Kali casually picked up a napkin, blotting the yellow stain on her shirt and brushed pieces of egg from her face. “Edmond, where did you hear that name? I don’t talking about it last night.” Kali narrowed her eyelids at him. “Last night after you and Gunter went off to bed I was still feeling fresh. I went downstairs, found your notebook and read through it.” “Edmond, I... I don’t know what to say. I just...” Kali stammered. “Please Kali, don’t worry. I’m not offended. When I read what this Evolution Stone is all about, I recognized its importance straight away. I can’t blame you for wanting to keep it a secret. Why, if word got out, who knows what could happen?” Edmond handed her a towel. “It is vital that word of this not leak out.” Gunter wiped his mouth. “But it’s just so exciting. Something like this would make the discovery of King Tut's tomb look like, well, like a trip to the zoo. Of course, I realize what could happen if it should fall into the wrong hands. It would be disastrous.” “I'm so glad you understand the importance of what's going on,” Kali said.

“I think we should start off right away.” The look of anticipation on Edmond’s face was difficult to ignore. “Edmond,” Gunter broke in. “If you have read much of those notes, you can see just how dangerous this could be. I have the most experience at archaeological digs, and Kali at least has a little. It's hard, back-breaking work and fraught with danger.” “Now, now, as much as I appreciate your consideration, you're not considering all the facts. I may be older, but I’m certainly not feeble. I run and I do weight training. I'm as spry as someone half my age.” Edmond said. “Let’s not forget, since I’m the rightful owner of the tablets, I have a stake in this enterprise. But, more than anything else, I'm so bloody in need of an adventure. Now, what do you say?” His eager face tugged at Kali’s heart. “You have no idea what we're about to get into. You mentioned the discovery of Tut’s tomb. Howard Carter is the only member of that expedition to survive. Everyone else died, including Lord Carnarvon. And he was in England, thousands of miles away from Egypt when he died mysteriously.” Edmond waved of his hand. “Perish the thought, risks don’t frighten me. As many missions as I’ve flown in, risk to life and limb doesn’t dissuade me.” “Edmond, you place us on the horns of a dilemma. But the truth is we really could use an extra hand.” Gunter sat back in his chair. A broad smile spread across Edmond’s face. “That's the ticket, Gunter.” He smacked the table. “I knew you would see reason. You know, since Adjay here is from Iraq he could be of some use.” Kali clenched her jaw and blew out a sigh. Adjay’s excuses may have sounded rational to Edmond, but in her gut, she didn’t trust him. “Adjay, how familiar are you with the area around Babylon?” Kali glared at him. “I grew up near there,” Adjay said. He got to his feet and moved to take his plate to the sink. “I know it well.” “You're familiar with the ruins of the temple of Marduk?” she asked.

“There is an ancient ruin of a temple there, but it is nothing but rubble.” “The temple of Marduk is where we found the little souvenir I told you about, Gunter. her?” Kali reached into her pocket and produced the photograph she had taken from her bedroom. Gunter took it and examined it closely. “Yes, Kali, I it well. This is the goddess of the underworld. I see the base has an irregular shape.” “Yes, it has rays of different sizes around it. And it has a lodestone in the base. I think it’s a key of some sort.” “You might just be right,” Gunter replied. “Did you bring the statue with you?” “It’s in my bag upstairs. I’ll go get it.” Kali jumped up, ran up the stairs and ran up to her room. She soon came back, handing the idol to Gunter. “There is an inscription on the base.” Gunter pointed. “I need to translate this text. Edmond, do you have a magnifying glass?” “My eyes aren’t what they used to be. The print on those food labels is so small lately.” Edmond dug into a kitchen drawer and pulled one out. “Kali, could you get the notebook?” Kali went downstairs and came back, sitting across from Gunter. “Good, now write what I tell you.” Kali pulled up a chair and waited for Gunter. He studied the text for a moment and spoke slowly while he read the ancient text: “Any who dare disturb the resting place of king Nebuchadnezzar must choose death. The goddess of the underworld awaits, Labartu, Labasu, and Akhkhazu, bringer of nightmare and plague.” Kali moved to get a better view. Feeling a presence to her left she turned to see Adjay staring at the idol. “So, this idol is more than what it seems.” Edmond’s attention was riveted on Gunter and Kali. “Do you think it will help us get into the temple?” “You mean, what is left of the temple.” Gunter looked up from the idol. “I

suspect it has subterranean chambers. The tablets and this idol tell us Nebuchadnezzar’s tomb is there. This statue is probably the means to gain entry. We should arrange to go there and see what we can uncover. Kali, how soon can the jet be ready?” “I’ll call them and see. I told them to be ready tomorrow. If the jet has been fueled and the flight plan has been arranged, we might be able to leave today.” Kali took out her phone and stepped away from the table. “Well, I’d better run upstairs and throw a few things into a bag. Adjay, could I trouble you to clean up down here?.” Adjay nodded while Edmond stood from the table and headed for the stairs. Gunter put the idol on the table and turned to leave. Adjay picked up plates and carried them to the sink. Going back, he moved toward the idol and reached for it. Gunter came back and snatched it up before Adjay could pick it up. Kali put her phone back into her pocket. “Good news, the plane is fueled and...” She stopped short when no one answered. “Gunter, Edmond?” She moved to the living room and gasped when she nearly ran into Adjay coming back into the kitchen. “Where did Edmond and Gunter get off to?” “They went upstairs to pack.” “What were you doing in the living room?” Kali raised one eyebrow. “I was just putting a few things away. Now if you will excuse me, I must do the dishes.” He moved to the sink and turned on the faucet. Kali went into the living room, scanning for anything unusual when the magnifying glass next to the telephone caught her eye. She picked it up when Gunter called her name. “What did you find out?” He asked. “Good news,” Kali said. “The plane is fueled and the flight plan filed. However, the flight plan is for tomorrow. The pilot is going to try to get clearance to depart today. I’m just waiting for a call from him for confirmation. I’m going upstairs to shower and pack.” She pulled Gunter aside. “Can I speak to you privately?” Kali tilted her head toward the next room. Gunter nodded and followed her.

“We need to keep a close eye on Adjay.” Kali grabbed his arm, pulling him close. “Things with him just don’t add up. First, he sneaks into the basement to read our notes. And I just found the magnifying glass next to the phone when Edmond keeps it in the kitchen. I don’t want to take any chances. When we’re in the air, he shouldn’t be any trouble. At least not until we get to where we’re going.” She rolled her eyes. “I understand,” Gunter replied. “Between Edmond and myself I believe we can keep our eyes on him.” “I can always count on you.” She gave his arm an affectionate squeeze and headed upstairs. On the way up she met Edmond. “Good news, when I get a call from the pilot we can head for the airport.” “I imagine he’s trying to get the flight plan changed to today. It shouldn’t be too much trouble since we’re not close to a major airport.” “As a matter of fact, it’s what I’m waiting to find out. How did you know? Oh, right, you’re a pilot.” Edmond nodded. “I still fly every chance I get. I could fly us to Iraq, but I’m afraid my little plane doesn’t have the range.” “Quite alright. Even if we can’t leave ‘till tomorrow, I don’t imagine the ruins of Babylon are going anywhere. If you’ll excuse me, I need to shower and pack.” “Certainly, my dear. I’ll go down and finish in the kitchen so that Adjay can pack a few things.” Kali opened the bedroom door and turned. “Oh, Edmond?” “Yes?” “Do you always keep your magnifying glass in the kitchen?” “Yes, I have to watch my diet and I like to read the label ingredients. Why do you ask?” “It’s just Adjay put it in the living room.”

“Hmm, that’s odd, he knows I keep it in the kitchen. It must be from all the excitement.” “I suppose.” She nodded thoughtfully and closed the door behind her. Returning to the kitchen, Kali found Adjay and Edmond finishing the dishes under Gunter’s watchful eye. “Good news.” Kali adjusted the heavy bag on her shoulder. “The pilot called and we can take off right away.” “Good news indeed. Adjay, would you mind helping with the bags while I lock up?” Edmond dried his hands and left the room. Adjay picked up Edmond’s bag and headed for the car. “Well, my friend.” Kali patted Gunter on the shoulder. “Are you ready?” “Kali, I have been ready for twenty years.” The four of them loaded the car and sped off to the airport. They arrived, wasted no time unloading the car, and boarded the plane. Before climbing the steps, Kali took out her phone and dialed. “Ollie, we’re about to take off now.” “You’re ahead of schedule, efficient as ever I see.” “Is everything ready?” “We’ve had some problems with insurgents recently, but we have a detail of locals out hunting them down. Everything is arranged for your arrival. It’ll be good to see you again.” “Excellent, I’m looking forward to seeing you too.” The Cessna Citation roared down the runway and rose into the air. The bright morning sun silhouetted the small jet against the vast blue sky. The co-pilot came out of the cockpit. “We’re in for a 5-hour flight so make yourselves comfortable. There are food and drink in the fridge. Restroom is in

the back. Anything else you need, don’t hesitate to ask.” He nodded at the group and closed the cockpit door behind him. “Gentlemen.” Kali unfastened her seat belt. “I suggest we go over the information at hand. Gunter, why don’t you start?” “Of course our first task is to find the temple of Marduk,” he began. “We have a general idea of where it was located but it was a large temple. There will be a lot of area to cover. There is no mention of any subterranean chambers in the ruins, so we will have to uncover the entrance to the underground portion of the temple.” “I have lived in that area all of my life and there are no underground chambers in the ruins,” Adjay chimed in. “You believe that only because it has been long forgotten. Babylonian law forbade any mention of the location of Nebuchadnezzar’s tomb which, according to the tablets, is located under the temple.” Gunter waved a finger from side to side. “Since he was a devotee of Marduk, it will be the logical place to start. Once inside we will have to be on our toes. The Babylonians were brilliant architects. Not only will the entrance be ingeniously disguised, but the tablets hint at many possible dangers inside.” “Dangers?” Adjay’s face went pale. “What sort of dangers?” “Well, there’s nothing spelled out, of course,” Kali replied. “They wouldn’t tell us anything when they wanted to keep people out, now would they?” She looked down at the notebook and ran her finger down the text. “The tablets do speak of the bodyguard of Nebuchadnezzar, there’s also a mention of Tiamat, hmm.” Kali tapped her chin while she thought. “Who’s Tiamat?” Edmond’s eyes narrowed and his eyebrows scrunched tight. “Let me see.” Kali scrolled through the information Devon sent to her phone. “Ah, here she is. Tiamat is the goddess of water.” “Water, eh? There’s no water near Babylon, is there? But, what’s all this about Nebuchadnezzar’s bodyguard?” Edmond asked. “They’ve been dead for thousands of years, what possible harm could they be? You don’t believe they’ll return from the dead do you?” He cocked his head. “It all sounds like a bit of

hum-buggery to frighten off tourists.” “Don’t discount something you don’t believe in, just because you’ve never seen it.” Kali raised her index finger. “The Babylonians were geniuses at deg things. After all, no one has been able to figure out how Nebuchadnezzar could get water to the Hanging Gardens. The danger may not come from the undead but from something mechanical. Some of the Egyptian Pharaoh’s curses have been poison gas or toxic mold stored in a sealed pot. We’ll all have to be on our toes. It’s when you let your guard down, even for a moment, that bad things happen.” For several hours, the three discussed the context of Gunter’s translation. All the while Adjay fidgeted nervously in his seat. Gunter stood to get a drink. “All this talk has me thirsty.” Kali ed the idol in her duffle bag and pulled it out. “Gunter’s call about the tablets woke me from a dream that involved a life-sized version of this statue. I don’t believe in coincidence. I have a feeling she’s going to play an important role in this expedition.” Gunter returned to his seat, took a long pull on his beer and looked thoughtful for a moment. “Kali, could I see her a moment?” he asked. She handed the statuette to him. Reaching into a cabinet, he milled around for a minute, then pulled out a small magnifying glass and looked it over carefully. “I missed this earlier. These markings are directional points, see here.” He pointed to the base. “The two markings are north and south with the longest tip pointing east. And here is the number eleven. Kali, we came across the number eleven in the tablets. I believe you are right, this must be a key.” “May I see her.” Edmond reached for the statue. He studied the base where Gunter had pointed out the markings. The ringing of Kali’s phone interrupted them. “Kali, its Ollie. We have you on radar. You’re now entering restricted airspace. Two of our jets will escort you in. Our tower has given your pilot a heading. I’ll see you in a few ticks.”

The copilot’s voice came over the intercom. “Folks, we’re on final approach. If you’ll buckle in, we should be landing shortly.” The blipping of the radar coming from the cockpit told them of the approaching craft. She looked out the window at the Harrier fighter jets flying on their three O’clock and nine O’clock. She waved at one of the pilots when he looked her way and returned a salute. Kali blew out a sigh and relaxed in her seat. She froze when a warning klaxon came from the cabin. The loud, steady buzzing caused a chill to shoot through her. She unbuckled her seat belt and hurried to the cockpit door. “What’s that sound? What’s going on?” Kali asked, wide-eyed. “Someone’s fired a missile at us!” The small blip on the radar screen confirmed her fear. “Our escort is trying to draw it off. Get back to your seat and buckle up! I’ve got to try to shake this thing!” The pilot ordered. The plane lurched first left, then right, tossing Kali like a rag doll. She fought to get back to her seat. She stumbled several feet past her seat, struggling to keep her footing. The warning sound from the cockpit increased. The missile was getting closer. She pushed herself toward her chair, but the craft did a steep climb and she tumbled backward. She slammed into the restroom door, knocking the wind out of her. Kali could hear the engines whine when the pilot put them on full afterburn. The climb took them vertically and then upside down while she rolled helplessly onto the ceiling. Pain shot through her body when she landed on her shoulder. She quickly covered her head. Empty glasses, her duffle, beer bottles and books rained down on her. “Kali, give me your hand!” Gunter reached out to her. Their fingers touched when the plane rolled upright and she fell out of his reach. The plane banked hard to the left and Kali crashed into the cabin wall and let out a cry. The beeping quickened despite all the pilot’s best efforts. “I can’t shake this thing, prepare for impact!” he shouted. An explosion rocked the plane. Several windows blew out from the impact and a hole ripped open in the side of the cabin. Loose items flew around and were sucked out of the plane. The idol moved across the floor toward the opening.

Kali didn’t hesitate and dove for it. She snatched it up and threw it into the air behind her. “Edmond, catch!” Edmond snatched it out of the air before the swords could impale him. The plane listed and Kali slid toward the opening. She clawed at the carpet, moving steadily toward the hole. “Gunter, help!” she screamed. Her heart raced. Gunter reached for her, but she slid out of reach. He unbuckled his belt and dove to the floor. Grasping her arms, he held on with an iron grip, his 275-pound bulk stopped her momentum. Pulling her to him, he picked her up and pushed her into her seat. Kali struggled to right herself and finally buckled her seat belt. In the panic, she failed to notice the nose of the plane tilting downward. “What’s the damage? How badly are we hit?” Kali called. “The port-side engine is gone and the wing is damaged,” he shouted. Water bottles rolled toward the cockpit and Kali knew they were going to crash. She pushed her feet hard into the floor, willing the plane to slow. Gradually, the nose of the plane rose in the air and their descent slowed, but only a little. Edmond, Kali, and Gunter all gripped the armrests and held their breath. Adjay whimpered in his seat with his feet in the chair and his arms wrapped around his knees, rocking back and forth. Kali wondered, was how her father felt when his plane went down. Tears pooled in her eyes. The plane hurtled toward the ground and minutes seemed like hours. The plane struck a sand dune and shook violently. It slid down the slope and up the other side and launched into the air again. The craft arced and Kali’s weight straining against the seat belt. Loose items in the cabin hung in the air, weightless, while everything seemed to go in slow motion. The nose of the plane came down sharply and buried itself into the next dune. Sand and debris rained down on the doomed craft for a few moments, and then everything went silent.

Chapter Nine: Kaseem

A LOOSE WIRE DANGLED in the wind where the engine had been. The hot desert wind blew the wire against the plane creating a shower of sparks that covered the sand. A steady stream of fuel poured from the damaged wing creating an ever-widening dark circle of sand. Inside the cabin, muffled voices penetrated Kali’s semi-conscious mind, like a crowd of people calling her name from a distance. Slowly regaining consciousness, someone was patting her cheek. Foggy images gradually became clear as her eyes fluttered, then opened fully. Gunter’s eyes were locked on her. His lips curled into a smile. He held up two fingers. “Kali, are you alright? Are you injured? How many fingers do you see?” “Two, I’m OK. At least I think I’m OK.” With some difficulty, she unbuckled her seat belt. She tried to get out of her seat and groaned. Pain punished her every move. Adjay stood at the emergency exit, trying to force it open. He simpered and whined while he strained against the handle, pounding on it in frustration. He threw his body into the door once, twice, three times. Finally, the door fell to the ground and light flooded the cabin. Adjay shot out the opening and was gone. “I don’t think anything is broken, Gunter. Are you alright? How are the others?” “I am alright Kali, nothing is broken.” Gunter helped her stand. “If you would check on Edmond, I shall go to see about the pilots.” The plane listed at an odd angle making it difficult to keep his balance making his way to the cockpit. Edmond was still unconscious. She lifted his wrist and felt for a pulse. “Edmond? How are you? Can you move?” He moaned while moving his head and reached to rub his neck. He unbuckled his belt and tried to stand but fell back into his seat. She took hold of his hands and helped him to his feet. “Believe it or not, I’ve walked away from worse crashes than this.” He took a step and lost his balance. Kali jumped in front of him and stopped his fall.

“Well, you know what they say,” she said. “Any landing you can walk away from is a good landing.” “Quite right, Kali, quite right. I say, do you hear something? It sounds rather like Frankenstein’s Laboratory.” Kali left Edmond and moved to the gaping hole in the fuselage. The patch of darkening sand grew larger and spread toward the rear of the plane. The hot wire arced again scattering sparks that settled on the darkened silt, igniting it. The fire spread, sending waves of heat and smoke into the cabin. “We’ve got to get out! Look!” Kali coughed. She covered her nose with her shirt. Edmond motioned her toward the door. Gunter came out of the cockpit with the copilot draped over one shoulder. The pilot limped along on one leg while leaning on Gunter’s other arm. First Edmond, then Kali and finally Gunter left the plane. The desert sun burned their eyes while the heat hit them in the face like a blast furnace. “We have to get as far away from the plane as we can,” the pilot managed to say between coughs. “When the fire reaches the fuel tanks we don’t want to be anywhere near here.” After a few steps, Kali gasped and stopped. Darting back through the door, she waved her hand in a vain attempt to see. Coughing from the noxious cloud in the cabin she searched frantically. The idol was laying on the floor under one of the seats, she scooped it up, shoved it in a duffle bag and ran out. Everyone scurried up the second sand dune away from the jet and across to the other side. Kali was the last to crest the dune when the fuel tanks exploded. A brilliant flash of light and deafening roar overwhelmed the senses. The concussion from the blast propelled her into the air and sent her tumbling down the sandbank, landing face first. Sand rained down on top of them and finally, the dust settled. Edmond picked himself up and rushed to her side. “Kali, Kali, can you hear me? Are you injured?” Kali grimaced from the pain. She covered her eyes to protect them from the glaring sun. Edmond helped her sit until she could clear her head.

“I’m alive. I’ll get back to you on the injured part later. I hurt all over. I guess that means everything is still attached. Is everyone alright?” Kali asked. “Is everyone here?” “Not everyone.” Gunter pointed to the top of a distant dune. Adjay was running as fast as he could, away from the crash site. “Come back here you coward and help us!” Edmond called out. Adjay crested the dune and disappeared from view. “Well, there’s no catching him now.” Kali threw her hands up. “I thought he might be useful to us, but we’ve got bigger worries at the moment.” “What could be worse than our plane being shot down?” Edmond’s eyes narrowed. His face skewed while waiting for a reply. “Who fired the missile at us and why?” Kali replied. Her phone rang, and she snatched it up and answered. “Kali, are you alright?” An anxious voice asked. “Ollie, just what the hell happened?” “Someone launched a small anti-aircraft missile. We had one stolen recently. I’m not sure if our jets were the target or yours. Both my planes made it back on vapors. They’re getting refueled. I’m sending out an evac chopper with a couple of Apaches to escort you in. They’ll be there to give you air in a couple of minutes” “They can’t get here soon enough to suit me,” Kali said. She turned in a circle. There was no danger to her rag-tag group, at least not yet. “Be careful out there Kali. My pilots spotted a small group they believe fired the missile. They were circling back to fire on the group when they disappeared in the hills. No doubt, they’re going to come looking for the wreckage, and you won’t be hard to find. I can see the column of smoke from here. Do you have any injuries?” “We think the pilot has a broken leg and the co-pilot appears to have a dislocated shoulder and a concussion. He has a pretty nasty bump on his head. He’s still

unconscious. We need to get them both to a doctor. The rest of us got out with some bumps and bruises.” “Roger that, I’m sending medics out with our guys. Can you defend yourselves until my men arrive?” Ollie asked. Kali turned in a circle and went to pick up her duffle bag. “I think we can hold our own but I’ll breathe easier when we’re out of the open. I’ll see you soon.” Kali put her phone back, went to her bag and opened it. She began pulling out hardware and assembling the pieces. She inserted a clip into a Heckler & Koch MP7A1 machine gun and tossed it to Edmond. He cocked it and began scanning the area. “Gentlemen, whoever fired on us may be coming to finish the job, so I have a feeling we’re about to have company. It’ll be a few minutes before the cavalry comes. Until they get here we need to defend ourselves.” Kali took out more parts and assembled an M16 assault rifle and tossed it to Gunter. He pulled the bolt back and was ready for any sign of trouble. She took out a Glock 22, inserted a clip and carried it over it to the pilot. A voice from behind them broke the eerie silence. “Please put down your weapons so no one will be hurt.” A stranger said in his heavy accent. The trio froze. Kali turned her head and a figure mounted on a camel held a Kalashnikov assault rifle leveled at them. With the sun behind him, he appeared like a dark specter approaching. Before Gunter could wheel around and fire, Kali placed a hand on his arm. “Do as he says Gunter. If he wanted us dead he’d already be shooting. We’ve cheated death once today. Let’s not try for twice shall we?” Kali winked at him. Gunter complied and dropped his rifle. Edmond followed suit. Kali slowly stepped away from Gunter, dropped the pistol, and turned to face the stranger. “What is it you want?” Kali asked the mounted figure. He rode slowly forward with his weapon still aimed at them. “You can begin by telling me what it is that you are doing here,” The man replied. “We’re here on an archaeological expedition,” Kali replied. “And just where might your archaeological equipment be? I see only weapons.”

He surveyed the group. “The weapons are for self-defense only,” Kali responded. “Our equipment is back there on the plane, you know, the one you shot down.” “Ah, yes, of course, I saw your plane going down, but I did not fire on you.” The man dismounted his camel, walked over and bent down to pick up Gunter’s gun. Kali pressed her fingers hard into the palm of her gloves. The electromagnets activated and the gun flew into her hand. The man stood and was staring into the .40 cal bore of her pistol. He looked blankly for a moment and dropped the rifles. “Who are you and if you didn’t fire on us, just who did?” Kali narrowed her eyes and gritted her teeth. “Allow me to introduce myself, I am Kaseem Mufteera.” His gold tooth glinted in the sun when he smiled. “I am chief of the tribe of Kurds. This land is our home. We have been hunting a small group of insurgents that harass the military. We saw your plane going down and came to see if there were any survivors. We had to be sure you did not have hostile intentions.” “Just how do I know you weren’t the one who shot my plane down?” Kali kept the gun trained on him. “If I wanted you dead, you would not be standing here now,” he replied. He whistled loudly and no fewer than twenty riders mounted on camels appeared all around them. “I believe you lost something,” Kaseem said. At his signal, one of the men rode forward, stopped near Gunter and threw Adjay off his camel. He fell on the sand with a thud and crawled over to cower behind Edmond. “You can keep him if you like,” Kali sneered. “I can cut his throat and leave him to feed the birds if you would prefer.” Kaseem looked at Adjay like he was a week old corpse. “I am beginning to like this man already.” Gunter smiled. “Your offer is tempting,” Kali said. “He just might be more useful to us alive.

But I’ll keep your offer in mind.” Kali lowered her gun and engaged the safety. Kaseem picked up the guns he dropped and tossed the M16 back to Gunter. “I’m Kali Hunter and these are my companions, Edmond Livingston and Gunter von Hausen. You’ve already met Adjay. He’s the one with the yellow streak down his back. Those are our pilot and co-pilot who are in need of medical attention.” Kali pointed in the direction of the two injured men. Kaseem quickly scanned the group, taking a moment to sneer at Adjay. “And where is your expedition heading Miss Hunter?” Kaseem moved to examine the wounded men. He snapped his fingers and motioned for one of his men to come near. He pulled out his canteen and gave it to the pilot who readily drank from it. A dust storm appeared out of nowhere. Two Apache helicopters came over the sand dune and hovered fifty yards away, one on each side of them. Everyone on the ground tried desperately to block the flying sand from their eyes. Kali’s phone rang and she was happy to hear the familiar voice on the other end of the line. “Kali, is everything alright?” Ollie asked. “My boys tell me you’re with Kaseem and his men.” “We’re safe, how close is our transport? And by the way, you might have given me a heads up about Kaseem,” Kali replied. “I didn’t know he was in the area. He has a large territory he and his men patrol. You’ll be safe with him until the med-evac chopper arrives. ETA of 5 minutes. I have to leave on urgent business, it’s only for tonight. I’ll be back early in the morning so you can take my bunk for tonight. I’ve had some extra cots set up in the officers’ quarters for the men with you. I’ll see you tomorrow.” At the end of the conversation, the Apache engines rose in pitch as they lifted in the air and took off. Kali placed her phone back into her pocket and went to check the wounded men. The copilot stirred and moaned. Edmond wet a handkerchief and dabbed the blood away from a cut on the man’s face.

“Miss Hunter, I believe I asked a question about the destination of your expedition.” Kaseem queried. Kali turned her attention away from the wounded men and faced him. “We’re headed to the ruins of Babylon. Mr. Livingston is a collector of antiquities.” She motioned to Edmond. “He’s hired us to find some artifacts he believes will enhance his collection. Isn’t that right Mr. Livingston?” Kali turned so Kaseem couldn’t see and winked at Edmond. “Quite right, Mr. uhm, Kaseem is it?” Edmond responded. “My friend Gunter here found some nice items there back in the eighties. Not very valuable individually you understand, but, to complete a collection could increase the value of the whole exponentially.” Kaseem gave an understanding nod, rubbing his chin. “Miss Hunter, Babylon is a dangerous place these days. You would be wise to conduct your search elsewhere. There are insurgents in the area. There are also bandits who would kill you and your friends without a thought. You were fortunate to survive the crash. I would encourage you to leave this place and return another time.” “I’m afraid it wouldn’t be possible,” Kali interjected. “Mr. Livingston has a possible buyer for his collection. If we wait, the opportunity will be lost. He could suffer catastrophic financial losses if his collection isn’t completed in time.” “Then it would be safer if we were to accompany you to Babylon,” Kaseem said smiling. “There are those who would consider your heads to be valuable for their collection.” Kaseem raised an eyebrow and moved his index finger across his throat. “If you would like to keep them attached to your shoulders, you would be wise to accept my offer.” “I’ll require some time to discuss your proposal with my friends,” Kali said. “Very well,” Kaseem responded. “But know this. My men and I know every inch of this land. Your military friends may have superior weapons, but they do not know the ways of our people. They often require our help in finding their enemies. I will meet with you at the military base in the morning where we can discuss the matter further.”

Without waiting for a reply, Kaseem mounted his camel and went to the top of the dune. Kaseem and his men rode away while the chopping of the blades of the e-vac helicopter carried across the dunes. The two Apache escort circled the perimeter to protect the group. A group of armed soldiers appeared at the top of the dune accompanied by medical corpsmen. They came down with two stretchers and quickly strapped the two wounded pilots to them. They labored uphill under their load accompanied by Kali, Gunter, Edmond, and Adjay. The group boarded the helicopter and secured themselves. The engines strained as the craft lifted off the scorching sand and headed toward the base. Behind them was the smoldering wreckage of their doomed aircraft and the pillar of smoke stretching into the sky. The craft turned and headed toward the base, and Kali ired how the setting sun painted the sky with brilliant hues of crimson-red and orange. In the distance, Kaseem and his men rode away, casting long shadows across the dunes.

Chapter Ten: The Marine Base

A KNOCK AT THE DOOR dragged Kali out of a restless sleep. Her body ached after yesterday’s adventure and even sitting up in her bunk hurt.

“Kali, are you decent?”

She smiled at the familiar voice. “I’m always decent. Come in Ollie.” A tall, ruggedly handsome officer swung the door open wide and strolled in with a large smile on his face. Only his receding hairline and the hint of gray on his temples hinted at his age. His bright blue eyes had the twinkle of a much younger man. “God, it’s great to see you again. Did you sleep well?” Kali stretched, her hands barely visible in the over-sized pajamas. “I’ve slept in worse, so it’s hard to complain. Thanks for the loan, by the way. I lost all of my clothes in the crash. I’m just glad I’m still alive to tell about it. How’ve you been, Ollie?” “As well as can be expected in this place. I’m sorry about your plane.” Ollie placed some military fatigues on the dresser next to the cot. “I guessed at your size, I hope these fit.” Kali groaned, getting out of the cot. Her every movement made something else hurt. She gave her friend a long hug and stepped back to look at him. “Well, well, I’d heard you’d added another star to your collection.” She ran her fingers over the insignia on his collar. “They tried to give me a desk job along with it but I wouldn’t let them. I’ll be damned if I’m going to rot inside four walls until I retire.” Someone knocked on the door and Gunter stuck his head in. Kali waved him in and he entered with Edmond behind him.

“Ollie, this is one of my oldest and dearest friends, Gunter von Hausen. Gentlemen, I’d like you to meet our host, General Oliver Cromwell.” “Guten Morgen General. Danke for your hospitality.” Gunter shook General Cromwell’s hand firmly. “Any friend of Kali’s is welcome here anytime,” Ollie said. “And this is my friend, Edmond Livingston,” Kali said. Edmond stood stiffly erect and saluted before offering his hand. “A pleasure to meet you general.” “Welcome Edmond, you served in the military, what branch?.” Ollie returned the salute. “Royal Air Force. Captain.” “So, what did you fly?” “Anything with an engine. Nothing like being up in the wild blue, old chap, nothing like it.” “You must miss it terribly,” Ollie said. “Oh, I still get up there every chance I get. Impossible to get it out of the system after you’ve been in the air as long as I have,” Edmond said. “I’m sure it is,” Ollie replied. “Gentlemen, and lady, breakfast is ready in the officer’s mess. I’ll go on ahead with you two and we’ll let Kali get dressed.” The men left while she looked at the fatigues. They were a tad large, but they would do nicely. Kali dressed, heading out the door and followed the smell of food. Military rations or not, she was famished and no one had better come between her and her first cup of coffee. Kali shaded her eyes from the blinding morning sun on her walk to the mess tent. She smiled to herself when two soldiers ran into one another while distracted by her. They ended up in a pile on the ground, red-faced. Kali giggled when they scrambled to stand.

She entered the tent and breathed in the smell of breakfast. First, she located the trays, then she craned her neck, looking for Ollie. He motioned to her to take the chair opposite him. She took a plate, piled it high with food, sat down and dug in. Ollie broke the silence. “So Kali, I don’t suppose you’re going to tell me, but I’m going to ask anyway. Just what is it you’re on the trail of this time?” Kali washed a mouthful of food down with coffee and thought before answering. “More than likely it’s probably just another dead end. We need to get to Babylon and we’d like to attract as little attention as possible.” Ollie rubbed his chin while he thought. “Hmm, it may not be easy. It’s risky since insurgents moved into our area. Up until yesterday, they haven’t posed a serious threat. Mostly they harass our patrols and steal supplies. HQ thinks they shot your plane down thinking you were delivering food or medicine. Kaseem and his men will locate them for us. Then we’ll move in.” Gunter, who had been hanging on every word, spoke up. “So, Kaseem works for you?’ “Not exactly, it’s a symbiotic relationship. We keep his people supplied with food and medicine. He and his men help me by patrolling the area and keeping the enemy at bay. This is their home and they know the area like the back of their hand. You know, Kali, you said you want to get to Babylon with as little attention as possible. Kaseem and his men patrol that area. What say we put your group in disguise, pawn you off as local tribesman and Kaseem can escort you?” “Pardon me General, but wouldn’t armored transport be safer?” Edmond inquired. “We’ve already been shot out of the sky. The thought of getting shot at on the ground certainly isn’t any more appealing.” Kali had been deep in thought but finally spoke up. “Actually, Kaseem already suggested it yesterday. Think about it, Edmond. Armored transport is going to attract a lot of attention, especially if they get out of their normal routine. We want very little attention. We could slip in completely unnoticed. What do you think Gunter”?

Gunter swallowed before he spoke. “You know, it’s been a few years since I’ve ridden a camel through the desert.” “Yes, Libya” Kali broke in. “I’d just as soon not be reminded of that if you don’t mind.” He ignored her comment and continued. “I think I like this idea very much. Yes, very much indeed.” “Well,” Edmond said. “It seems we are going to Babylon with Kaseem.” “Ollie, could you Kaseem?” Kali asked. “It looks like he’ll have a few guests on his next patrol.” Ollie looked past Kali. “You can tell him yourself if you like.” A tall handsome man dressed in Bedouin robes strode up to them. He carried a large bundle wrapped in a tarp over his shoulder. When he reached the end of their table, he dropped the bundle and it hit the floor like a bag of wet cement. Reaching down and grasping the end of the tarp, he pulled upward in a swift move. A body rolled out and lay face down on the floor. Kaseem kicked the body over with his foot and they saw the face of a local tribesman. His eyes were open and staring blankly at the ceiling. The look of fear when he met his end was still frozen on his face. “This is the man who fired on your plane yesterday, Miss Hunter. We caught him with this in his possession.” Kaseem handed General Cromwell the FM-92 firing mechanism. His eyes glistened and he smiled at his accomplishment. “This looks like the man we caught on our security cameras stealing the antiaircraft missile,” Ollie said. “It happened during the sandstorm we had a couple of weeks ago. You Kaseem? You came for supplies. But there were two of them. Did you find the other one?” “Not yet,” Kaseem replied. “He abandoned his companion when we were closing in on them. My men are still tracking him. He will not elude us for long.” She examined the corpse. “I count at least twenty bullet holes,” Kali said.

“A fitting end for someone who would murder such a beautiful woman and her friends.” Kaseem bowed slightly. “I thought I might bring him to you alive. Then you could exact your revenge on him for the loss of your plane and the peril to your group. Alas, he fired upon my men and they had no choice but to kill him. But tell me, Miss Hunter, how would you have dispatched him?” She turned and faced Kaseem. Before he could blink she pulled out a tanto blade knife and held it to his chest. Kaseem’s breath caught. He stared at the long black blade that reflected no light. “I don’t care for guns,” Kali said. “They’re are noisy and messy, any coward can use one. Blades are graceful and a thing of beauty. It takes courage to face someone with a blade. You see if you sever the Brachial Plexus nerve bundle here.” She moved the back of the knife across Kaseem’s collarbone. “Then it’s impossible to use your arms. It would be a fate worse than death.” Kali replaced the knife into its sheath strapped to her upper arm. Kaseem’s look of surprise slowly faded back into a smile and his gold tooth glittered in the light. “I am most impressed, Miss Hunter. Beauty and skill with a blade. How may I be of service to you?” Kali gestured to the group seated. “We were just discussing the possibility of having you escort us on your next patrol of the Babylonian ruins.” “I can think of few things that would give me greater pleasure. Your people have freed my country from the oppression of a power-hungry lunatic. Anything we can do to repay our debt to you, we will do gladly. As it happens, I have extra camels with me to resupply my people. Perhaps, General, I could trouble you to have the supplies delivered. Then I would be free to take our friends here to their destination.” “I’ve got an AW101 chopper in the hangar. I’ll have the quartermaster load it. It’ll be airborne before lunch,” Ollie replied. Edmond’s eyes twinkled at the mention of the aircraft. “You’ve got a Merlin? Kali, we could be at Babylon in short order instead of taking all day on a camel. Are you sure this is what you want to do?” “Ollie, do you have any aircraft patrolling in the area over the Babylonian ruins?”

“No, we don’t. I let Kaseem and his men patrol there. It’s in his tribe’s boundaries so it saves us the time and effort.” “Then it’s settled,” Kali said. “Edmond, you are more than welcome to stay here at the base. Gunter and I are the only ones who need go along. I’m sure it will only take a few days.” “What, stay here while you and Gunter have all the fun? I wouldn’t dream of it,” Edmond replied. “Fun you say,” Gunter retorted. “Sweating and laboring under a blistering desert sun. Perhaps you find something, maybe you do not... fun, humph!” “I cannot help but be curious, Miss Hunter.” Kaseem’s brow knotted. “To go through all this effort for the sake of some trinkets dug up out of the sand, to risk life and limb. I do not understand. My people value food and water. These pieces of pots and statues are of no value. What is worth so much to risk your lives?” Kali eyed Kaseem. Ollie appeared to trust him, but it would be better to err on the side of caution. “You might be surprised what can be learned from fragments of pottery,” Kali replied. “Historians long thought Egypt used slaves to build the pyramids. Then they found numerous pottery shards the builders used to write on. By studying them, they learned the workforce was actually hired labor. So, there’s no telling what can be learned from what we find. As for the risk involved, archaeology is inherently a risk to life and limb. You could say it comes with the territory.” “There are those who do not like outsiders in our country,” Kaseem responded. “Many were content with their way of life before your countries intervened. It is dangerous for you to be out there alone. Yet you are well armed, this much is obvious. For the most part, only jackals and carrion birds reside there. I am quite sure you will only find piles of brick and sand.” “If that is true, we will have only wasted a few days in the desert. The loss is our own,” Kali replied. “Very well, have your group ready to leave within the hour. We have a long ride ahead of us. If all goes well we will arrive at the ruins before nightfall.” “Kaseem, let’s go see the quartermaster,” Ollie said. He stood from the table.

“We’ll get your needs taken care of. Kali, if you run into any trouble at all just let me know, I’ll send the cavalry in your direction. It’s always a pleasure to see you.” He gave Kali a hug before walking off with Kaseem. “Well I don’t know about the rest of you but this is all so exciting,” Edmond mused. “My first archaeological dig. Exciting indeed.” “Yes, well, we shall see how exciting it is in a few days,” Gunter replied. “Edmond, either the next few days will be the most exciting, or the most frustrating in your life, or both. Let’s get moving. Something tells me our escort won’t appreciate it if we’re tardy.” Kali, Gunter, and Edmond walked out of the officers’ mess together. Kaseem and his men waited on their mounts. Kali, Gunter, Edmond, and Adjay were dressed in similar tribal robes. “I don’t suppose there’s a horse around I could ride?” Edmond glared at his mount. “I am afraid not, my friend. Horses hooves sink into the sand,” Kaseem said. “A camel’s foot spreads out, they are ideal for travel in the desert.” “Edmond, you aren’t afraid of camels are you?” Kali asked. “Fear isn’t the problem my dear,” he replied. “It’s just I’ve never met a camel I liked.” “Well, it’s just for one day. When we find what we’re looking for we’ll Ollie to come to pick us up.” Kali climbed aboard her mount as if she’d done it all her life. Gunter and Adjay mounted their camels with ease and watched while Edmond stood there regarding his animal. He nervously approached and jumped back with a start when the animal looked at him and grunted loudly. “Edmond, will you stop playing around and climb aboard. We’ve got a long ride ahead of us,” Kali chided. Edmond clambered on top of his mount and their gear was loaded onto the last remaining animal. The sun baked the air around them on their ride into the desert. After a long hot day, their backs and bottoms were sore. With their clothing

soaked with sweat, they finally dismounted in front of the ruins of Babylon. “I owe you our thanks for the escort, Kaseem,” Kali said. “I do not know what you will find here,” Kaseem answered. “I fear death will find you if you remain too long. Mark my words, Miss Hunter, leave this place at your earliest opportunity. We must take the camels with us so no one suspects your presence here. We will not be ing this way again for another seven days. We have much territory to cover and few men to do it. If you are still here we will see about your welfare, but I hope for your sake you are long gone by then.” “I hope so too, my friend,” Kali replied. “I hope so too.” “I definitely will not miss that camel.” Edmond rubbed his bottom and walked around stiff legged. The four watched while Kaseem and his men rode off into the distance. The sun hung low in the sky and cast long shadows while they looked for a safe place to make camp. Well hidden by piles of stone, they set up camouflaged tents and settled in for the night, but Kali slept very little. Excited to be so close to a goal she had hoped for, she felt uneasy about what they might encounter. Kali awoke all too early, cranky and badly in need of caffeine. She put on her favorite Cubs baseball cap to shield her eyes from the sun and left her tent. With eyes half closed, she found Edmond pouring her a cup of coffee. A beautiful sunrise peeked over the horizon as they talked about their strategy for the day. Gunter and Adjay came and ed the conversation. Kali opened the discussion. “The most logical place to begin our search will be where I discovered the statue.” “I agree, Kali.” Gunter found the spot he had carefully marked on a wellweathered map. Adjay studied the area to get his bearings. “This, I think, is where the north gate once was. Just inside the gate, we should find the temple of Marduk.” Adjay pointed to an area on the map. “I concur,” Gunter replied. “We just need to find the entrance of the temple.

Then your little friend can help us find the entrance to Nebuchadnezzar’s tomb. The temple was quite large so it will not be easy.” Kali pulled the idol from her backpack and studied the unusually shaped base. “Get a good look at this pattern on the base.” Kali held up the statuette for all to see. “Notice the irregular design. This is what we’re looking for.” They all studied the base of the idol before fanning out to look for a matching pattern. The sun rose higher in the sky and the temperature with it, making their search all the more difficult. The long, hot day ed uneventfully while the four searched for any sign of where the statuette might fit, but to no avail. With the sun beginning to sink into the afternoon sky, Kali and Edmond sat down to wipe away the sweat and rest their weary legs. Dark patches of sweat covered their clothing. Kali offered him a drink from her canteen. “I can’t help but get the feeling we’re looking for a needle in a haystack,” Edmond said. He took a long drink of water. “Well one thing is for certain, my friend,” Kali replied. “The needle never finds itself, now does it?” “Good point my dear.” Edmond rose and walked away from her. “Edmond, stop right there. Don’t move.” “What is it?” He turned to face her. “Stop,” Kali said. “Very carefully, turn back around and let me have a look at your tros.” Puzzled, Edmond turned while looking over his shoulder. Kali knelt to study the back of his pants. The sand had clung to the sweat-soaked fabric forming a pattern. She took the idol out of her pack to compare. “Edmond, I think you just may have found it.” She turned to look at the spot where he had been sitting. Barely noticeable beneath the dust and sand was the match to the pattern. She leaned over and blew the debris away. Kali felt a wave of excitement wash over her when the place they had been searching for came to view.

Edmond stood, staring over her shoulder. “Is that really it?” “We’ll find out soon enough my friend,” Kali replied. Carefully, she turned the idol to match the shape. The statue dropped into place with a clunk. She smiled with satisfaction. It fit snugly into place. They waited breathlessly for something to happen. They turned around, looking for any kind of opening but saw only the wind-blown sand. “Perhaps you should turn it, like a key in a lock,” he suggested. Kali grasped the base and tried to spin it, first one way, and then the other, but it wouldn’t budge. Kali began to pace, thinking. Her eyes followed the shadow the idol formed. The two swords held above its head formed an X. “Edmond, what time do you have?” He wiped his brow and looked at his watch. “It’s five minutes till five. Why do you ask?” “When we were translating the tablets, the number eleven came up in the text. We had no idea what it meant, so we skimmed over it. Then it showed up on the idol when Gunter examined it.” Kali walked to where the shadow fell on the floor. She looked at the alignment of the idol to where a window might have been. “So what does it all mean?” Edmond asked. “The ancients measured time differently than we do. Instead of beginning their day in the middle of the night, they began their day at sunrise. They were an agricultural society, so it just made sense to them.” Kali walked around the spot marked by the shadow. “Well, it makes sense to me, Kali. But, what has it got to do with the number eleven?” She knelt down and brushed away the sand covering the floor. “The sun came up about 6 this morning. Counting from there, eleven hours would mean five O’clock.” “So, you’re telling me ‘X’ marks the spot?” Edmond raised an eyebrow.

“Here, look at this. It looks like there’s some design on this floor. Help me clear this off will you?” They both knelt and, using their hands, began clearing the dust and sand away. A sunburst pattern appeared before them, with the center on the shadow of crossed swords. Kali stepped into the center of the sunburst, but nothing happened. “Edmond, stand here while I try something out.” Edmond took the position and she walked back to the statuette. Again she inserted the base of the statue into the socket and tried to turn it, first one way, and then the other. Pushing, pulling, produced no results. She lifted it from the base to examine it again and replaced it. Turning to say something to Edmond, her mouth fell open. He was gone.

Chapter Eleven: The Temple

STARTLED, KALI STOOD with her mouth open staring at the empty spot where Edmond stood only a moment ago. “Edmond! Is this some sort of joke? Where are you?” When he didn’t reply, she hurried over to examine the spot, but she found no indication at all what had happened. She stood on her toes and craned her neck to get a better view. Gunter came by, mopping his face with a bandanna. “Have you found anything?” “Gunter, come quickly!” Kali waved him over. “Something’s happened to Edmond.” Gunter ran to her side and looked around. “Where is he? What has happened?” “I have no idea. We found the spot where the idol went. But putting it in the socket did nothing. It doesn’t turn like a key would. I followed the shadow to where the crossed swords are. See how the swords form an ‘X’? “X marks the spot?” Gunter had doubt written on his face. “You must be joking.” “ how we kept coming across the number Eleven?” “Yes, it appeared in the tablets and even on the idol. Did you discover what it meant?” “Eleven is the hour of the day,” Kali said smiling. “Five O’clock?” Gunter’s eyes went wide. “See how it’s right on the center of the sunburst on the floor.” “You’ve found the secret entrance to the temple.” A smile spread across Gunter’s face. He crossed over to stand on the spot but nothing happened. Kali stepped back to the statuette, picked it up, turning to show Gunter, and gasped. Now he had vanished. She called out to him but heard nothing but the wind.

Adjay staggered up, moisture beading on his forehead, wiping it with his sleeve. “I cannot believe I let you drag me back here. England was so nice compared to this oven. I feel like my body is on fire. When are we going to eat?” “Adjay, am I glad to see you, come over here.” Kali grabbed his arm and dragged him to the spot on the floor. “What are you doing Miss Hunter? I want to get out of this heat and find some water.” Hurrying over to the statuette, she turned and watched Adjay carefully. “Don’t move, I’ll get you out of the sun in just a second.” She lifted the idol. “But, Miss Hunter I...” The floor beneath him gave way, his mouth dropped open and his eyes were wide as saucers. The opening in the floor snapped shut again. “At least that shut him up,” Kali muttered. Relief washed over her, knowing the secret to the entrance to the Temple. Then her brow knotted and her mouth twisted to one side. She realized she had no way in herself. She replaced the idol in the base and lifted it again. Nothing happened, it must require the weight of a person to trigger the trap door. How can I stand on the spot and remove the idol at the same time? I could throw a rock and knock it off. But what if we need it to unlock more secrets in the temple. She took off her pack and rummaged around inside. Pulling out a small plastic case of dental floss, the idea hit her. She went to the idol, tied the end of the floss to it and fed out the line while going back to the spot. She took a deep breath, wound the line around her hand and pulled hard. The idol flew off its base and the stone opened beneath her feet, swallowing her up. Pulled by her weight, the idol skidded across the floor and went through the opening just before the floor sealed shut.

IN THE DISTANCE, A glint of light flashed when the sun reflected off a telescope lens. “What shall we do now they have found the entrance to the sacred tomb?” a voice asked. The man holding the telescope lowered it and replaced it in his saddlebag. “We wait for the bodyguard to claim four more victims.”

KALI SLID DOWN THE dark winding shaft and finally fell onto the floor. Hearing the clattering just behind her, she rolled forward. She turned and the points of the swords the idol held were stuck in the sand where she’d landed. She sat there a minute, enjoying the cooler air, noting the musty smell like an old basement when a bright light hurt her eyes. “Well, well, look who finally decided to the party. So glad you could make it,” Edmond said. “I’ve always enjoyed being fashionably late, but I couldn’t stand the thought of you continuing the party without me.” “Thank you for the surprise, by the way. Imagine my shock standing up there and a moment later I’m dumped, unceremoniously down here.” “Sorry. But, you did say you wanted an adventure.” Standing, she turned in a circle but Gunter and Adjay were nowhere to be seen. “Where are the rest of our party goers?” “Gunter and Adjay went to reconnoiter the temple while I volunteered to stay behind and wait for you.” “And just where is here?” Kali picked up the idol, unclipped a flashlight from her belt and began looking around. The beam illuminated wall paintings, faded with time. Two large doorways stood on opposite ends of the far wall framed with ornate carvings. Vivid paintings on the walls depicted life in the Babylonian capital. A gathering of ancient priests offering infants to a figure with the face of a bull sitting on a throne. A flame burned in its lap. “I believe, that’s Marduk. Seems he had a taste for infants burned alive. Revolting!” She scowled. “And you would be correct my dear,” Gunter’s voice came from the doorway to Kali’s left. “So glad you could finally us. I knew it would not take you long to figure out how to get down here.” “What have you discovered so far?” Kali turned her attention from the wall

relief. “I discovered the original stairway leading down here,” Gunter replied. “But it collapsed long ago and there is far too much rubble for us to clear away without heavy machinery.” “Then it’s a good thing we’re not looking for a way out,” Kali said. “We’re not looking for a way out?” Adjay asked sheepishly from behind them. Gunter barked at him. “Of course we are not looking for the way out! We are here to search for the greatest find in the history of mankind and you want to leave?” He snorted. “Now, now, Gunter old boy,” Edmond chimed in. “Adjay is a bit of the timid type. He’s not at all the adventurer you and Kali are.” He put a hand on Gunter’s shoulder. “I’ve got to it to a feeling of trepidation myself, but it is all so exciting isn’t it? I’m beginning to see what you see in this business.” “Let’s all put our feelings aside for now. We need to be on the top of our game. It’s a sure bet one misstep could be disastrous,” Kali warned. Adjay took his heavy pack and dropped it on the floor. There was a loud click that caused the back of Kali’s neck began to tingle. “Everyone, quiet!” She whirled around, looking for the source of the sound. The three men stood speechless. She turned her head first one way, then the other straining to identify the strange sound. She picked up Adjay’s pack and saw the problem, A small section of the floor sat lower than the rest. She grabbed Adjay by the shirt. “Adjay, what have you done?” “I... I... I was tired and put my pack on the floor,” He stammered. “Does anyone else hear the noise?” She released him and pushed him away. “I hear something, but what I think I hear is impossible,” Gunter replied.

“It sounds like...” Edmond's voice trailed off. “If I didn’t know any better I would swear that’s the sound of running water. How is it possible? We’re surrounded by desert.” “It sounds like it to me too.” Kali knelt down and put her ear to the floor. She reached into her boot and pulled out a dagger. She stood up and threw it down sharply. With a dull thud, the point buried itself into the floor. Kali reached down and pulled it out, replacing it in its sheath, the men looked on, puzzled. “The floor is wood, not stone,” Kali said flatly. “So, if the sound we’ve been hearing is running water then that means...” Kali spun around to survey the room. She focused her light on the wall paintings. “Gunter, look at the wall.” His mouth dropped open. “The wall looks like it is sinking into the floor.” He looked up at the ceiling, noting how close it was coming. “The ceiling isn’t lower, the floor is rising. We need to get out of here.” Adjay panicked. Breathing rapidly, his eyes were like a frightened animal. “We are going to be crushed! We are all going to die!” He spun and fled to the nearest doorway with the collapsed stairway. “Adjay, you fool, wait!” Kali shouted. But he was already gone. “Gunter, door number 2, where does it go?” she asked. Gunter didn’t hesitate. “We are about to find out.” He took off in the direction of the furthest doorway. Kali and Edmond were right behind him. They could see the doorway shrinking the closer they got. “This is going to be close., Edmond shouted when Gunter dove into the opening, followed by Kali. Edmond slid through seconds before it closed. The three of them lay on the floor in the dark for several minutes. Kali’s heartbeat pounded in her head like a hammer. The heavy silence that enveloped them felt sinister. Gunter finally turned on a flashlight and they became aware of the awkward position he was in lying on top of Kali. He stood, straightened himself while he cleared his throat and tried to find the right words.

“My most humble apologies my dear,” he brushed the dust from his clothing. “I...I...” “No apology is necessary Edmond,” Kali interrupted him. “Gunter, the doorway Adjay took, where did it lead?” “It goes nowhere. The hallway leads to the collapsed staircase,” Gunter replied. “The stupid fool is trapped, there is no way out.” He waved his hand. “What do you suppose possessed him to run off like that?” Edmond asked. “It must have been sheer panic, like the way he bolted after our plane went down,” Kali replied. “I hoped Adjay would be useful to us. But, we have more important issues at hand. We need to figure out where we are and where we need to go.” Edmond extended his hand to help Kali to her feet. Meanwhile, Gunter rose to his feet and shined his flashlight around to get his bearings. Babylonian pictographs covered the walls depicting scenes from a world long since forgotten. Soldiers brandishing spears were marching behind captives with their hands tied behind their backs while priests led the procession. Kali took out her phone and scanned the age, waiting for an image to form on the screen. “What’ s that you’re doing?” Edmond looked over her shoulder. “It’s a special mapping program on my phone. It sends out a sonic pulse and maps the area for us.” She concentrated on her screen while she walked around. Gunter busied himself studying the carvings on the wall, shining his light everywhere to look for clues while keeping a trained eye for any possible triggers for traps. “I believe this will take us to the room where the priests offered their sacrifices,” Gunter said. “We’ll see where it takes us from there.” He walked up to the corner and peered around it. The hallway went on for twenty meters and turned again. They turned the corner, went to the next and it offered two hallways to choose from. “Hmm, this looks like it might be a labyrinth.” Kali studied the image on her

screen. “Should we split up and explore a little?” Gunter asked. “Well, if we split up we could cover more ground. However, we’ve already lost one member of our party and I’m not inclined to lose another. We’ll stick together and use my mapping program. It’ll take longer, but we stand a better chance.” Kali turned to her right and the three pressed on. The footfalls of their heavy boots echoed off the stone walls, making it sound like they were being followed. Several times, Edmond swung around, shining his light on the age behind them. Cobwebs draped across the hallways. The webbing stuck to them and trailed from their clothing like ghostly apparitions. Even though they spoke in hushed tones, their voices echoed off the walls making it sound like someone was whispering all around them. Edmond stopped and cast his light around. “Edmond, what’s wrong?” Kali put her had on his shoulder. Edmond yelped and stared at her, bug-eyed. “I saw a shadow move.” “Are you sure?” Gunter spun and moved in front of them to aim his light down the corridor. “I do not see anything. This place must be getting to you. I must it, it is beginning to get to me as well.” Edmond leaned against the wall and breathed deeply. “I’ll be alright. It’s just my imagination running wild. Let’s press on, shall we?” An hour later, the threesome came upon a long hallway with several doorways on each side. Easing down the hallway, the peered into each room and discovered each one was dedicated to a different god or goddess. The first room had a statue of a man with a long beard, halfway down his chest. He wore a large crown, and on his back were 4 wings. “This is Marduk isn’t it?” Edmond asked. “Very good Edmond,” Gunter said. “Chief god of Babylon.” Around the room were paintings of Babylon at the height of her glory. The high, thick walls were wide enough for two chariots to on top. The temple of Marduk stuck out

from the rest with its golden walls. They stood in awe for a moment taking in every detail of the painting. After a while, they moved to the next room. In the center, a statue of a woman with a crown of stars sat. The center of the crown held a moon. The walls were dark and covered with constellations of stars. “This is Sarpanit, the shining lady, consort of Marduk.” Gunter pointed to the woman depicted in stone. They continued through several Babylonian gods and goddesses. Then the rooms changed. “This is pretty odd isn’t it Gunter?” Kali shined her light into the next room. “The other rooms were devoted to Babylonian gods. This room seems to be devoted to Buddha.” “Perhaps they’re keeping their options open,” Edmond quipped. “It is not too hard to believe, actually,” Gunter replied. “The Romans adopted all of the Greek gods and goddesses, they just gave them different names. Kali nodded her head with pursed lips while they made their way to the next room. “Look here,” Edmond remarked. “This is Hindu if I’m not mistaken.” Gunter replied. “Hinduism is widely regarded as one of the world’s oldest organized religions. This is Vishnu, chief god in Hinduism, the protector of the world and restorer of moral order.” “Humph, moral order, quite the contradiction in this place,” Edmond muttered. An odd feeling came over Kali. She didn’t know why, but she felt like someone called to her. Backing out of the room while Edmond and Gunter studied the walls, her feet began to move and she found herself walking to the next room. Shining her light into the opening, her breath caught. There, in the middle of the room stood a statue of the Hindu goddess Kali. The beauty of her face contrasted the look of pure rage. The mouth of the statue opened in a scream and the eyes were wild. In one of her four hands, she held a man’s severed head and the other held a copper sword covered with blood. Her other two hands were stained with blood. Around her throat was a necklace of human heads and she wore a skirt of human arms. Kali wanted to look away but couldn’t. She stood there, motionless, her eyes locked with the eyes of the goddess. A heavy hand grabbed her shoulder. “Kali,

you shouldn’t wander off alone, you had us worried,” Gunter scolded. She whirled around, ready to scream. “Gunter, you startled me. I just came in here to have a look. It felt like someone was calling me. My feet just started moving and I couldn’t stop myself. This is Kali, the Hindu mother goddess. My father named me after her. She’s beautiful isn’t she?” “Indeed she is. If I did not know better, I would say she bears a striking resemblance to you.” Gunter remarked. “She’s beautiful alright,” Edmond said. He walked around the statue looking at the walls. “But what a horrifying scene.” A grisly battleground covered the four walls with hundreds of bloodied corpses littered across the field. Many of them dismembered or decapitated. “Shocking, just shocking. Is she supposed to have done all of this single-handed?” “Legend says she did,” Gunter said. “She’s actually a gentle mother goddess,” Kali said. “According to the story, an army invaded and slaughtered many of her people. It enraged her so much she took Shiva’s sword to go out and meet them. Once she began fighting, she became unstoppable. It wasn’t until Shiva lay prostrate and she placed her foot upon him, her rage subsided.” “Shiva, you say,” Edmund scrutinized the man depicted beneath her left foot. “That wouldn’t be Shiva the Destroyer would it?” “Yes, it is.” Kali knelt to examine the statue on its back. “Even the Destroyer didn’t dare challenge her in her rage.” “I dare say it would go for many of the women I’ve known.” Edmond elbowed Gunter and laughed. Gunter placed his arm on her shoulder. “You had us worried Kali. You shouldn’t wander off alone like that. Are you alright?” “What are you talking about? I just walked in here to look around and the next thing I knew, you snuck up and startled me.” Kali was indignant. “I couldn’t have been in here but a few seconds.” Kali looked at both men as if they had lost their minds and shook her head. They

shrugged their shoulders and looked at one another puzzled, not knowing what to say. “Maybe it would be better if we just pressed on,” Kali rolled her eyes. “We have no idea how much more of this labyrinth we have to get through before we find our way out.” “Agreed,” Gunter lead the way out of the room. Edmond followed on his heels but Kali lingered for a moment. She found herself profoundly moved by the lifelike image. She shook her head and stalked out into the hallway. When they turned the next corner, Kali stopped and stared at the screen. “Well, the bad news is, we’ve just wasted the last two hours and we’re back where we started,” Kali growled. “The good news is, we have a map of it.” She held up her phone to show them. “Obviously, this must be the way we need to go.” Edmond headed through the next doorway until he felt two hands restraining him. “After what happened to Adjay you might want to let one of us take the lead,” Gunter said with caution. “We have already dealt with one trap. We are going to have to be careful from here on.” “You may have a point there, old boy.” Edmond gestured with a sweep of his hand. “You lead the way and I’ll bring up the rear.” Kali held the device up, waited a few moments, and studied the screen. “Alright, it looks like a large room about 20 meters by 60 meters with a row of columns on each side. There’s also a large table with a large circular object behind it.” “Sounds like a sacrificial table and altar,” Gunter chimed in. “This is the room we have been looking for, I believe.”

WHILE THEY PROCEEDED into the room, eyes peered out from the dark tunnel behind them carefully observing every move they made. The robed figure moved slowly, appearing like a shadow, keeping a respectful distance. It stopped just outside the door to listen.

INSIDE THE ROOM, THEIR flashlights illuminated wall paintings. Along the walls were four sconces with torches on each side. The columns had eight sides of flat bronze plates, starting a foot above the floor and stopping a foot below the ceiling. Kali pointed to the sconces. She proceeded to light the torches on one side, while Gunter lit those on the opposite wall. With all of them burning, they were able to conserve their flashlights. Kali and Gunter carefully made their way around the room searching for any information the builders, long dead, could tell them. Edmond stood cautiously in the middle, waiting for them to tell him it was safe to move. The flickering of the torches played tricks with the shadows in the room, giving the depictions on the walls the illusion of movement. Edmond’s eyes darted about expecting the men from the paintings to step out into the room. The paintings depicted captives being led to a table. They tied them down and cut their hearts out. They burned the heart on the altar as an offering to Marduk. Kali and Gunter worked their way to the opposite end of the room and approached the table. The dark stains on the floor from the countless victims slain there was still visible in the grooves cut into the floor, and led from the sacrificial table to the altar. Beneath the altar, a fire pit sat, charred black with the embers from the countless sacrifices offered on it. Kali walked behind the altar to examine a large sealed doorway. Looking at it from side to side and top to bottom, she couldn’t see a means to open it. Gunter studied the paintings covering the walls when Kali called to him. “Gunter, we have a sealed door here we need open if we’re going to make any progress.” Gunter diverted his attention and walked over to the door, examining everything. Edmond went over and sat down. Taking off his right boot, he poured some sand out of it when he heard a loud click. He froze and held his breath. “What was that?” Kali jumped. “What?” Gunter stopped examining the doorway.

“Just as I sat down and took off my boot I heard a click.” Kali spun around to face Edmond and strained her ears to listen. “When you sat down you heard the noise?” Kali asked. “Exactly.” Edmond moved to get up. “Don't move!” Gunter shouted, but it was too late. Edmond stood with his boot in hand. The sound of machinery sent chills through Kali. “Edmond, what am I going to do with you?” Kali shook her head. Her eyes darted around the room waiting for something to happen. She didn’t have to wait long. On the opposite end of the room, a noise like a sword slicing the air made everyone shudder. Bronze blades dropped from the sides of one of the columns and began to spin around it. The column next to it repeated the motion. They started to move up and down like pistons. The blades covered the area from wall to wall, overlapping in the middle. There was no way to get past them. “This does not look good,” Gunter said nervously. “Find a way to get us out of here before we’re sliced and diced.” Kali pointed toward the blocked exit. A minute later, the next set of columns sprouted blades. Like the first set, they began to spin and moved up and down. “What is going on Kali?” Gunter’s voice came from behind the altar. “It looks like another set of columns sprouted blades. It took about a minute after the first ones went off.” “There are eight more pairs of columns,” Edmond said. He stared blankly at the death trap at the end of the room. “In eight more minutes, there won’t be a safe place in this room. How’s it coming with the door Gunter?” Kali turned to look at him. Gunter used his finger to trace the painting on the exit. “The artwork depicts the altar burning with a priest placing a heart into the fire. There is a man on the table in front of the altar with his chest ripped open with a priest collecting the blood in a bowl.”

Sixty seconds ticked by and the next set of columns triggered. “How’s the exit coming Gunter?” Kali paced back and forth. “Edmond,” Gunter called out. “Lie down on the table again.” “Are you crazy?” Kali shouted, “that’s what started this mess in the first place.” “The trap did not trigger until he got up. Try it.” “Do it.” She pointed to the table. Edmond hesitated, sat on the table and stretched out. The next pair of columns sprang to life. Gunter peeked over the top of the altar and clenched his teeth. “Kali, come here and look at this.” Gunter waved her over. “What do you want me to do?” Edmond asked. “Don’t move.” They both replied in unison. “Kali, look at this.” Gunter pointed to the painting of the altar. “There is a body on the table and there is a fire under the altar.” The next pair of columns sprang to life. “So we need a fire under the altar?” “Exactly.” “Grab a torch. Let’s get out of here.” Kali ran to the wall, pulling a torch out of the sconce. Gunter went to the opposite wall and did the same. Another pair of columns activated. “The next pair of columns goes off and Edmond gets it,” Kali muttered. “What did you say?” Edmond shouted from the other side of the altar. “Nothing Edmond, whatever you do, don’t move.” Kali placed her torch under the altar. Gunter threw his torch in after hers. Few anxious seconds ticked off

and nothing happened. Edmond, get ready to move.” Gunter called out. The column next to Edmond dropped its blades two feet above him and slowly began to spin. “I’m ready anytime you are,” Edmond called out. He could feel the movement of air with each rotation of the blades. The door began to rise slowly into the ceiling. “Now Edmond!” When he rolled off the table, the column began its downward motion. Edmond, boot in hand, crawled quickly toward the exit. Gunter and Kali waited outside the door while the last set of columns activated and Edmond ran out of the room. “Now that’s what I call a close shave.” Kali leaned against the wall, her body nearly quaking with adrenaline. “You’re not the one who was nearly turned into julienne chips,” Edmond said. He leaned his back against the wall and breathed heavily for a moment. He put on his boot and stood. “Please tell me there’s a pub around the next corner that serves beer.” “It looks like a long hallway sloping downward. It’s why the air is slightly cooler. We’re going deeper underground.” Kali took out her phone and activated the screen. She concentrated on what was ahead of them and paid no attention to the door slowly closing behind them. After going some distance the trio came to a large doorway and stopped to examine it. It had writing on both sides and across the top. Kali allowed Gunter to study the large door in front of them. Edmond had the uneasy feeling they were being watched and glanced behind them. The eyes of the figures on the walls stared right back at him, making him uneasy. The flickering of the torches continued to play tricks on his eyes. Even though he could have sworn he saw a shadow behind them, he ed it off as nervous apprehension. “So, Kali, Gunter, what’s the verdict, where do we go from here?”

“Gunter, what do you make of the text?” Kali studied the screen of her device. After examining all three sides, Gunter held his chin in his hand for a moment before he spoke. “I am not entirely sure what to make of it.” Kali broke her attention away from her device to look at Gunter. “What’s the matter? It can’t be a different dialect can it?” “No, no,” Gunter replied. “I can read it, I am not quite sure what to make of it.” “Well for goodness sake old fellow, what does it say?” Edmond asked anxiously. “It is the same message on all three sides. See here,” Gunter said, pointing to the script carved into the entryway. “The symbols keep repeating over and over.” “Do you think it’s some sort of code?” Kali asked. “It does not seem to be a code, Kali. It is just a simple phrase repeating over and over. ‘ONLY THE DEAD MAY ENTER!’”

Chapter Twelve: Only The Dead May Enter

“RATHER A GRAVE REMARK don’t you think?” Kali said while she examined the door. “Grave indeed,” Gunter replied. “Look at the walls. See the depictions of the sacrificial victims being carried through this doorway and into the next room?” “Yes, but for what purpose?” Edmond asked. “I am curious myself. The tablets we translated mention the bodyguard of Nebuchadnezzar.” Gunter studied the door. “The answer, I suppose, is beyond this door. But I see no mechanism to open it.” “This is a rather large threshold for a door isn’t it?” Kali scuffed her boot across the long piece of limestone protruding beneath their feet. “Yes, it does seem quite large,” Edmond replied. “Note the depiction on the wall here.” Gunter pointed to the pictograph. “It shows two priests carrying the body of the victim and a third carrying a bowl of something that looks like blood. I believe their combined weight must be what triggers the mechanism.” The three of them stood on the threshold, there was a loud thud and the doors opened with an eerie creak. Kali activated the program on her phone and soon the image appeared. “It’s a large room. Nearly double the size of the last one. There appear to be alcoves along each wall. Let’s see for ourselves shall we?” Kali stepped across the threshold with her flashlight illuminating the way. She scanned the area, searching for anything, either a clue or a threat. Colorful paintings covered the columns depicting scenes of priests carrying in bodies of their victims. Edmond and Gunter followed a few steps behind. All three were in awe of both the beauty of the paintings and the macabre scene played out many centuries ago. They went along lighting the torches mounted on the columns. “Kali, this is fascinating.” Gunter pointed out one column. “This shows what

they did with the bodies they brought into this room.” Each progressive painting showed the sacrificial victim placed on the table in the middle. Then the next showed them brought back in, fitted with armor and weapons. Gunter began translating the text accompanying the paintings. “It tells us these were enemy soldiers captured in battle. They had their hearts removed to take away their devotion to their king. The priests cast a spell upon the armor and weapons they were fitted with so they would serve King Nebuchadnezzar, guarding him for all eternity.” Sensing something, Kali stiffened and held up her hand to silence Gunter. The trio froze, staring into the darkness while they listened. “There, do you hear that?” Kali asked. She turned around, her flashlight piercing the darkness, searching for the source of the noise. “It’s some sort of mechanical sound,” Edmond said. His eyes followed the beam of Kali’s light. “Look there!” Gunter cried out, pointing toward the door. Edmond and Kali spun around to see the great doors to the room creaking closed. Edmond sprinted for the door. “Edmond, you’ll never make it!” Kali called after him. The doors slammed closed, but the noise continued. “I hate to be the wet blanket of the group, but has anyone else noticed there is no other doorway out of here?” Edmond’s voice quavered. Gunter held his torch close to the table in the middle of the room to examine it. When the flame flickered, he moved it down, following the source of the draft. “Kali, Edmond, I believe I may have found the way out. There is air coming up from underneath this table.” He put his weight on the fixture, but it refused to move. “There must be some sort of switch to trigger the table,” Kali said. “Let’s find it so we can get out of here. The noise didn’t stop when the door shut and that can’t be good.”

“The two of you look around,” Gunter replied. “I believe there might be some clue in these paintings.” Kali directed her attention to the shadowy alcoves lining the walls. She approached one, her light shining into the dark hollow, and a shadowy figure came into view. Covered in thick cobwebs, she reached up and cleared them away. It was the figure of a man, or what was left of him. His dried, darkened skin nearly matching the black armor he wore. He held a javelin in his emaciated hand, ready to hurl it at some unseen enemy. His teeth were grimacing from lips dried and drawn back. The man’s empty eye sockets, staring into eternity, gazed back at her. She shivered from the chill that ran down her spine. She recalled her vision of the soldiers from the airport. Her gaze cut to the right and left. Mummified soldiers lined the walls, some holding javelins, others bow, and arrow. To anyone else, they might appear to be lifeless relics from a millennia ago. But the tingling on the back of her neck told her otherwise. Her muscles tensed and she instinctively drew one of the katanas on her back while she moved from one alcove to the next. Kali shined her light behind a soldier when she noticed the arrow protruded from a hole in the wall. Her breath caught when the arrow twitched. It flew past her face, the feather brushing her cheek. Another arrow soon took its place, fed from the hole in the wall behind the figure. “Gunter, Edmond, hit the deck!” Kali turned and the air filled with projectiles. In the center of the room, her companions were flat on the floor beneath the table in the center. Instinct controlled her movements. Kali leaned back to dodge a javelin coming from the opposite wall. It struck the wall and clattered to the floor. Kali used a sword to bat away two arrows headed straight for her chest. “Kali,” Gunter shouted. “over here, I know how to get out.” Kali dashed toward the center of the room. Moving fluidly, she dodged right, spun left, then ducked her head, avoiding projectiles. She dove to the floor just as an arrow nearly parted her hair and rolled, then slid under the table next to Gunter. “We have one shot to get this right or we’re all going to be over-sized pincushions.” They crawled out from beneath the bench. Kali grabbed Edmond by the shirt and pulled him out of the way. An arrow flew by where his head had

been a second before. Gunter pointed to the opposite end of the table. “Kali, you get on one end. Edmond, you lie down on the table, and hurry!” They took their positions but nothing happened. Dumbfounded, Gunter stood with a blank stare. Kali glanced at the painting behind Gunter, then at one of the bodyguards. She did a silent count in her head. When it released a javelin, she leaned back out of its path and snatched it out of the air. She spun it over her head and plunged it down where Edmond lay. Gunter and Edmond howled and looked on, wide-eyed. Kali had impaled Edmond’s canteen. The water spilled over the table into the grooves etched into the floor and the trio sank into the room below. But, not before an arrow struck Kali in the head. They descended and lost the light from the room above, plunging them into darkness. Gunter squinted while his eyes adjusted to the light. He gasped when he saw the arrow sticking through Kali’s head. The glow from her device lit the immediate area and she noticed the look on Gunter’s face. “What’s wrong?” she asked. Gunter couldn’t speak, he could only point to her head. Edmond followed his gaze, gasping when he saw the arrow. “My heavens Kali, are you in pain? Didn’t you feel anything?” Kali reached for her ball cap and felt the arrow, pulling it off to examine it. Gunter let out a sigh, seeing no harm to her. “Are you quite sure you’re all right?” Edmond asked. “Well, other than a few split ends...” Kali examined the tip of the arrow. “Nasty little bugger too. It’s barbed so pulling it out would do even more damage. You know I may just keep this for good luck.” Kali held it like a pointer. “Now, if the two of you are alright you should hold still while I get a reading on the room we’re in.” Kali turned in a circle with her phone in hand while Edmond and Gunter felt around to make sure they escaped unscathed.

“I seem to be none the worse for the wear.” Edmond stood. “But I wish I could say the same for my canteen.” He held it up and the last bit of water trickled out onto the floor. “How on earth did you know what to do?” Gunter asked. “It was on the column behind you. A painting showing the victim on the table and one of the priests pouring blood out of a bowl around the base. Look here...” Kali knelt down and ran her fingers over the shallow channels in the floor. “Grooves cut into the floor. The victim just had his heart cut out of his chest. They collected blood from the wound, and poured it into the channels, triggering the device and lowering them down here. The room we’re in appears to be a small anteroom that opens into a hallway to our right.” Torches were on the wall on either side of them. They took them down, lit them and illuminated the area. Brightly colored walls, as if they had been painted yesterday, depicted a gruesome scene. They showed the victim, with a gaping hole in the chest, carried from the anteroom and into the hallway beyond. “Gentlemen, it looks like we go this way,” Kali held her torch high and led the way into the hallway beyond. She inched along while studying every aspect of her surroundings, occasionally looking down at her device to see what lay ahead of them. The paintings on the wall to their right depicted bodies carried toward the end of the hall, while the wall to their left showed the bodies, now dressed in black armor, carried back toward the anteroom. Studying the screen, the map showed a solid wall in front of them. She assumed they would find a door they would have to find a way to open. The trio made their way along, studying every detail they could in the flickering torchlight. They examined every stone and crack between the stones. On coming to the end of the hallway, there didn’t appear to be a door at all. There was a noise behind them. Kali and Gunter whirled around to see the next surprise. Straining her eyes in the dim light, she noted the table in the anteroom lifting back up to the room above. “Where do we go from here?” Edmond asked. Kali and Gunter returned their attention to the puzzle in front of them. Kali used the arrow point to poke every stone but could find no trigger or switch to activate a secret door.

“It seems to be a dead end.” “It is a dead end. For you,” a voice from behind them said. The sound of a cocking gun sent a shudder through her. Kali recognized the accent in the familiar voice. She put her hands in the air and turned slowly. A cloaked figure stood before her with the hood leaving his face in shadow. But, the glint from a gold tooth reflected in the torchlight was a dead giveaway. “A British Royal Marine standard issue Sig P226, and I recognize your gold tooth. How long have you been following us Kaseem?” Kali asked. “Not following, Miss Hunter. We have been waiting for you.” Kaseem pulled back his hood and smiled. “I am most impressed you survived the attack of the bodyguard. I see by the arrow you hold that you nearly did not. You should be careful miss Hunter. These are tipped with poison.” He took the arrow away from her. “I take it you are not here to congratulate us,” Gunter said. “You are correct Mister von Hausen. As skilled as you are, we cannot allow you to go any further. You must not disturb the remains of our great king. And, since you know of this place, we cannot allow you to leave with that information. But, that is not your true objective, now is it?” Kali’s studied Kaseem’s face through narrowed eyes. How could he possibly know our objective? We haven’t told anyone, not even Oliver Cromwell. “You come seeking the Evolution Stone. Do not take me for a fool by denying it. Our great king was the first to discover it. He built his tomb on top of it so it would remain secret. Still, there came the ones seeking power and blood. A few, very few were able to reach it. All others have ed the ranks of the bodyguard, as will you.” Kaseem motioned and two armed men moved up to relieve Kali, Gunter, and Edmond of their weapons. A third man rummaged through Kali’s pack. He let out a loud yelp when he removed the idol. He held it aloft and danced. His shouts reverberated off the stone walls.

A broad smile spread across Kaseem’s face. “At last we have the key! We can now enter the chamber of the Stone and the world will change. My people will rule the world while your people quake in fear before us. Bring them!” Kaseem waved the gun to motion them to walk down the stairway under the elevator platform. Kali was overcome with something she’d never felt before as if she wasn’t in control of her own movements. In the blink of an eye, she kicked the gun out of the closest man’s hand and then drove her left foot into another man’s jaw. The impact knocked his head against the wall and he fell to the floor unconscious. Gunter quickly collected the Kalashnikov rifle from the floor. Kali was about to attack Kaseem when she froze. Kaseem’s arm was around Edmond and he pressed the tip of the poisoned arrow against his throat. “ENOUGH! You will stop or I will kill your friend.” Kaseem shouted orders to his men while one helped the other to his feet. Gunter threw the rifle to the floor and Kali glared at Kaseem with her fists clenched. “You fired the missile at my plane, didn’t you? And the dead man you brought into camp, I’m betting he was one of your own men, wasn’t he? Are there really any rebels operating in the area or is it a ruse to bilk supplies out of General Cromwell?” “You are intelligent and beautiful miss Hunter. I underestimated you. A mistake I do not intend to repeat.” They marched through the hallway at gunpoint, the torchlight reflecting off the bloody images accompanying them. Kali asked, “If you’re going to use the Evolution Stone, why harm us? You’ll have the power you want. The world will cater to your whims. Are you not satisfied? You need to shed blood too?” “You have violated the sacred temple and the burial place of our great king. His laws demand you serve him as his bodyguard for all eternity.” “Haven’t you violated the temple? You have no noble intent. You only want to use the Evolution Stone for your own selfish gain,” Kali replied. “We are the descendants of the makers of the bodyguard. For many generations, our families have ed down the honor of protecting the tomb of Nebuchadnezzar. I plan to reestablish the line of Chaldean kings and return Babylon to the glory my people knew during his reign.” They entered a large room with four tables. Flickering flames from a hanging

chandelier illuminated dark stains on the tables and the floor all around them. Black armor hung on the walls in various sizes, no doubt intended for them. “Tie them down!” Kaseem ordered. Two guards each grabbed an arm and forced them toward the tables. Using all his strength, Gunter threw one man off and punched the other sending him sprawling to the floor. He lunged for the men holding Kali. One of the guards ran up from behind and struck him in the back of the head with a rifle butt. He fell to the floor semi-conscious. It took two of the guards to wrestle him onto his back on a table and tie him down. With Edmond and Kali secured, Kaseem walked to the far wall and placed the idol in a small alcove. “Beyond this room is the final resting place of Nebuchadnezzar. Beyond that is the chamber of the stone. Legend tells it is a glorious place to behold. But the key has been lost to us many years ago. It is a sight your infidel eyes shall never see.” “Do you know why I am named after the Hindu goddess Kali?” She asked. “I know of Kali. Her shrine is in the labyrinth. She is the mother goddess.” Kaseem replied. “Kali was also a fearsome warrior. Even Shiva lay prostrate before her wrath. I am a powerful ally and a fearsome enemy. You need to think about that carefully Kaseem.” “But you are the one tied to a table,” Kaseem said. He stood over her with a broad smile. “You are about to have your heart removed to be sacrificed to our king. You will spend eternity in his service as a member of his bodyguard. When you their ranks, I will enter the chamber of the stone where I will become the ruler of the world. I have preparations to make. My men should be finished with you when I return.” Kaseem nodded to two hooded figures standing in the doorway. “Prepare them,” he ordered, then turned and strode out of the room. His men followed and only the two hooded figures remained. “You’re making the biggest mistake of your life,” Kali called out. “I’m afraid you’re wasting your breath, my dear,” Edmond said. “Perhaps if these two chaps speak English you can reason with them.”

Gunter strained against the ropes, but to no avail. The hooded figures began walking toward Kali. “If you speak English I can offer you money. You’ll be richer than Kaseem can ever make you if you’ll just let us go.” Neither man spoke when they approached. The one in the lead reached into his robe and pulled out a long dagger. Light from the torches reflected off the blade. Walking to the table he regarded Kali’s prone figure for a moment. She thought he was considering her offer until he raised the knife aloft. “You’re making a big mistake my friend,” Kali watched the knife pause high over her heart. There was a loud thud and he collapsed on top of her, the knife clattered harmlessly to the floor. The next thing she knew her hands were free. It took all of her strength to push the brute off her. She sat up and looked around. “I don’t know how to thank you enough.” Kali rubbed her wrists. “I can think of many ways, but we can discuss it as soon after we leave this horrid place,” the hooded figure replied. “ADJAY? Is it really you? We thought you were dead. How did you manage to escape the collapsed stairwell?” Edmond asked. Adjay loosed him from his bonds and moved to free Gunter. “There is no time to explain now. Quickly, we must leave before they return. We have the key. We should go now,” Adjay said. He cracked the door open and peered into the hallway. “Not so fast,” Kali said. She went to retrieve her weapons. “I meant what I told Kaseem and I intend to see to it.” “What do you have in mind Kali?” Gunter asked. Adjay groaned loudly. Kaseem strolled back into the preparation chamber with three of his men. Kali was overwhelmed by the strange feeling she had in the hallway. Before the first man ever saw her, she slashed his gun belt in two and his weapon fell to the floor. She spun around and drove the handle of the sword into his nose. He fell backward into a heap. When the second man reached for his weapon, Kali’s drove her foot into his

chin, driving his head into the wall. She ducked when the third man attempted to hit her with the stock of his rifle, narrowly missing her head. Squatting, she drove her fist into his groin. His eyes crossed, he let out a loud moan, grabbed his crotch and collapsed. Kaseem reached for his pistol but it didn’t clear leather when Kali’s sword point touched his throat. He froze when a trickle of blood slid down his neck. Kali drew her other sword and sliced his gun belt and his pistol fell to the floor. She faced Kaseem, threw the sword from her right hand in the air, drove the heel of her hand hard into his nose, and snatched the sword out of the air. Kaseem blinked his eyes and moaned, rolling his head from side to side. A red stain ran from his nose and down his face. A sickle sword twisted slowly as it dangled above him. It hung suspended from a slender cord coming from the wall. He tried to move but his hands were bound to the table above his head. He looked around trying to find his guards. Kali appeared next to him wearing a smug smile. Gunter and Edmond finished tying the last of Kaseem’s men to the preparation tables. Adjay peered through the open door, and then closed and bolted it to make sure they wouldn’t be disturbed. “I warned you I would be a terrible enemy. I’d like to turn you over to General Cromwell, but I just don’t have the time.” Kaseem pulled against his restraints in an effort to reach her but couldn’t budge. He cursed in Arabic, his face red with rage. “Have you ever heard of the story of Damocles?” Kali asked. “He envied king Dionysius and his possessions until the king invited him to sit on his throne. When Damocles looked up, there was a sword suspended above the throne, held by a single hair from the tail of a horse. Kali ran her fingers along the slender cord. “The moral of the story is you’d better be careful what you wish for.” She plucked at the cord like a guitar string making the sword dance in the air. Kaseem’s eyes widened as he watched the sword twitch and sway. “Perhaps I was too hasty in my judgment of you and your friends miss Hunter. If you could just free me, we could form an alliance. I too can be a useful ally.” “Sorry, it’s a bit late. Oh, by the way, in the story of Damocles? There is one slight difference. He didn’t have a candle burning beneath his string.” She took

one of the candles burning on the wall and moved it to the ledge just beneath the cord. The flame danced beneath it while the line turned black. Kaseem struggled to free himself. He mixed pleading with cursing in Arabic. Kali motioned for her group to move to the far wall. She removed the idol from the alcove and found the socket where it would fit. Voices came from outside the door, then pounding. Kaseem called out to them in Arabic. Kali inserted the idol into the depression, and a portion of the wall inched upward into the ceiling. The smell of centuries of undisturbed dust met their nostrils. Kali looked at Gunter. “This is the final leg of a journey and a lifetime of searching my friend.” Gunter strolled through the opening, torch held aloft, followed by Edmond and Adjay. “You don’t know what you are about to face miss Hunter,” Kaseem called out. If you untie me, I could guide you. There are many dangers beyond, terrible things await.” Kali stood a moment considering his words. Kaseem’s men were throwing their weight against the door to break it down. Cracks were forming around the hinges. “Hurry Kali, they could break through the door any minute,” Edmond called out. Kali checked the candle. The cord had almost burned through. She removed the idol from the wall and when the doorway inched downward, she stepped through. “Noooo! You cannot leave me here,” Kaseem called. “You need me. You will not survive without my help!” Then he called to his men. “Hurry, hurry, break the door down, break it down!” Just before the stone closed behind her, there was a crash of the door breaking free from the hinges, then a snap. “Noooo!” Kaseem screamed

Chapter Thirteen: The Tomb

KALI TOOK A MOMENT to let her eyes adjust to the darkness while the smell of stagnant air filled her lungs. The light of a torch illuminated the opening at the end of a short hallway. Gunter ed her to light the way. They walked down the age and entered a large room. Adjay went around the room lighting the torches along the walls on each side. Kali’s heart leaped in her chest from the awe-inspiring sight. “Welcome to the final resting place of King Nebuchadnezzar,” Edmond greeted them with a sweeping motion of his arm. Although ancient in the extreme, the room had to be one of the most beautiful she had ever seen. The dancing light of the torches flickered off polished white limestone lining the walls and floor. Ivory and gold sculptures were everywhere depicting wild animals and people, gods and goddesses. A full-sized war chariot carved from ivory and armored with gold plate sat against one wall. An ivory bow hung from the side strung with a golden string. Golden arrows and javelins were contained in an ivory quiver at the front. Life-sized horses carved of ivory stood in gold harness as if waiting to take the king into battle. In spite of all the riches surrounding them, the most interesting thing to Kali and Gunter was at the far end of the room. A large sarcophagus of red granite six-feet tall dominated the chamber. It had s of white limestone around the base containing depictions of the many achievements of Nebuchadnezzar. His conquests of Tyre and Jerusalem along with his victory over the combined forces of Egypt and Assyria were etched in stone. On top, a life-sized carving of the king lying in repose, painted so vividly it looked like the king himself rested on the lid. On each end stood a six-foot-tall statue of gold depicting Marduk. Before him, a statue of a goddess lies prostrate before it. The top half looked like a woman but the bottom was covered with scales and a long tail. Her teeth were not human, but pointed and sharp. Kali pulled out her phone to look in the information Devon had given her. “This is Tiamat.” “You are correct,” Gunter said. “She is the goddess of the watery deep. At times, records depict her to be a dragon. According to legend, Marduk defeated her and banished her to the underworld. The Babylonians held a festival to

commemorate it.” “Hmm, goddess of the watery deep you say. The first room we were in had the sound of water running that was responsible for raising the floor. There must be some sort of water source nearby used to power the traps in this sepulcher,” Kali said. She walked around studying the statues. “There are many things operated by water. Water wheels have been in use for thousands of years,” Gunter added. “Babylon was known for her Hanging Gardens. It would have required a massive amount of water.” “Sorry to change the subject,” Edmond interjected. “I don’t know if anybody else has noticed, but, there’s no obvious doorway out of this place. Kaseem mentioned the chamber of the stone is beyond this room. Couldn’t they just put up a nice big sign? Stone Chamber, Enter Here.” He gestured broadly at the far wall. “You’re right, Edmond,” Kali said. She finally tore her eyes away from the artwork. “The last room had a secret entrance operated using the idol as a key. It’s logical that there would be a secret entrance to the stone chamber too.” “Agreed,” Gunter chimed in. “Everyone spread out and look for something with the shape matching the base of the idol.” Adjay, Edmond, Gunter, and Kali all fanned out, each taking a wall. Using torches and flashlights, they covered every inch of the room. Black smoke from the torches rose toward the ceiling and the acrid smell they left filled the air. After an hour, they found their way back to the sarcophagus, tired and disappointed. “I do not understand,” Gunter said scratching his head. “There has to be a doorway somewhere.” “Well I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m exhausted,” Kali said. She pulled out her phone to check the time. “One a.m. I need a couple of hours rest before I can go any further. “I wondered when someone was going to suggest getting some sleep,” Adjay said in his nasal tone.

“I, for one, could use a good eight hours sleep.” Edmond looked down at the hard floor. “I’m afraid this limestone mattress doesn’t look very comfortable.” “Let’s get what sleep we can and perhaps when we’re better rested, we can find our way out of here.” Kali laid her pack on the floor near the sarcophagus and used it as a pillow. It didn’t take long for her to fall into a fitful sleep. The others followed suit and the sepulcher fell silent. The only sound came from the flickering torches. Kali awoke to the sound of Gunter snoring and checked the time on her phone. Only two short hours had ed and she felt little better than she had earlier. She looked around and her mouth fell open. The grating sound she heard wasn’t Gunter snoring. The heavy sarcophagus had moved to one side and exposed an opening in the floor. She lay there dumbfounded and saw a figure rise from the opening. Nebuchadnezzar, wearing a large golden crown, floated in the air. His purple robes flowed about him like he was under water and his bony hand clutched a golden scepter. His head spun slowly, and hollow eye sockets seemed to bore right through her. Too shocked to move, she could only stare when the king pointed his scepter at her. He spoke words in ancient Chaldean she couldn’t comprehend. Kali wanted to call for help, but when she looked around, the others were gone. Backing away from the specter, she ran into someone behind her. “Oh Gunter, am I glad you’re up.” But, when she turned, she saw Kaseem. He wore the gleaming black armor of Nebuchadnezzar’s bodyguard. Blood dripped from the gash in his chest where his heart had once been. She tried to speak but found she couldn’t. She opened her mouth, but nothing came out. A hand around her throat was choking her. She managed to wrestle his hand away and ran. She wanted to dive into the opening but the king blocked it. She ran around him toward the sarcophagus and hid behind it. Resting her back against the cool granite, she panted heavily wondering what happened to the others. Kali cautiously moved to the corner and eased her head out to look for her friends. Her heart sank when she spotted Edmond and Gunter on the floor with gaping holes in their chests. She choked back a scream and watched in horror as one of the bodyguards ripped Adjay’s beating heart from his body. She rested her head against the cold stone and closed her eyes to hold in the tears. When she opened them, Kaseem was right in front of her. Turning to run, she stopped

immediately when she met more of the bodyguard. They were holding different pieces of armor. One carried a helmet, another held pauldrons to cover the shoulders. The next one carried the vambrace to cover the lower arms. Yet another held greaves to cover the shins. Kali shook her head and held out her arms against Kaseem’s advance. Finally, backed into a corner, with nowhere else to go, Kaseem grabbed one arm, while another bodyguard grasped the other. Kali kicked and fought, but they were immune to pain. They threw her to the floor in front of the sarcophagus. She tried to jump up and run but they quickly surrounded her. Two of the bodyguard wrestled her down. She tried in vain to fight them off, but it was no use. They each held an arm while two more took hold of her legs. Kaseem moved over her and smiled broadly. He raised a large dagger high above Kali’s chest. She struggled to move but they held her too tightly. She tried to call for help, but she couldn’t speak with Kaseem’s hand around her throat, choking the life from her. Desperate for air, Kali gasped and thrashed. The of the bodyguard chanted the command spoken by the king. “THE INFIDEL MUST DIE.” Kali could hear Kaseem whisper the words, “You should have accepted my offer. Now I must obey my king. It is time for you to us!” His smile grew broad and he thrust the dagger downward.

Chapter Fourteen: Enter Tiamat

KALI SHOT UP FROM HER sleeping position with a shriek clutching her chest. Relieved to find Kaseem nowhere in sight, she sat gasping for air. “Kali, are you alright?” Edmond asked with a sleepy voice. “Did you see something?” She took a moment to compose herself before she could respond. “Yes, Edmond, I’m sorry I woke you. I had a nightmare. But it seemed so real. I saw the sarcophagus rolled to one side. Nebuchadnezzar rose from underneath and ordered Kaseem to kill me.” Edmond offered his hand to Kali to help her up. Kali looked at the others. Gunter was still sleeping soundly. Adjay stirred but went back to sleep. “Fine help those two are,” Kali said. “What I saw in my dream makes me think though.” “What was it?” “We’ve been looking for a doorway to go out. What if the doorway goes down?” Kali took out her flashlight and walked over to the sarcophagus. She got on her hands and knees and shined her light on the base. Moving from left to right she studied every inch of the base and floor. Finally, around the foot of the sarcophagus, she felt some irregularities in the floor. Almost invisible to the eye, she ran a finger along a slight groove in the stone. Running her hand along she found another one. “Edmond,” Kali called excitedly. “Look at this.” Edmond hurried over and shined his light where she pointed. Squinting he finally got down on his knees and moved his fingers along the base until he located the two irregularities. The slight grooves made by the extreme weight of the sarcophagus led toward the wall. “Unless I miss my guess,” said Edmond smiling, “I believe we’ve found the exit.” “Wake the boys, Edmond and let’s get going. This place is starting to give me

the creeps.” Edmond kicked at the feet of Adjay and Gunter. Adjay rose to his feet and stretched, but Gunter, who was a heavy sleeper, took more effort. Kneeling beside him, Edmond shook Gunter and shouted. “Gunter old boy, we’ve found the way out. Rise and shine.” Gunter stretched like a cat, yawned, sat upright and rubbed his eyes. Kali went to the head of the sarcophagus and put her weight against it, but it didn’t budge. “Gunter, come lend a hand would you?” He stood, stretched again and watched Kali strain against the weight of the immense block of stone. Gunter put his bulk against it and pushed but to no avail. “Edmond, Adjay,” Gunter called out, waving them over. The four of them put their weight against the red granite but it didn’t give an inch. “Are you sure this is the way out?” Gunter asked “There are two groves in the floor on the opposite side that indicate there are rollers underneath and it slides out of the way,” Edmond said. Kali thought about it with her arms folded and pacing around the sarcophagus. “The last doorway had a trigger requiring a key. This must require the key as well. She looked over every inch of the sides but found nothing. Finally, it occurred to her. She went to the foot of the granite block, took a few steps back, sprinted a short distance and leapt. Placing her hands on top she leapfrogged and straddled the image of the king. She ran her hands along his image in the dim light and came to rest in the middle. Kali’s lips curled into a smile and she turned to look at the others. “You’ve found it?” Gunter asked with excitement in his voice. “Toss me the idol would you Gunter?” Gunter retrieved the bronze statue from her pack and handed it to her. She inserted it into the center of the king’s chest and hung on. A muffled grinding from beneath their feet echoed off the walls and the rasping sound of stone on stone sounded when the sarcophagus rolled away to reveal a

large opening in the floor. “I think I know where they get their water from,” Edmond said, staring into the blackness. Leaving the statue in place, Kali slid to the floor. She came around the sarcophagus to the opening, and her smile quickly disappeared. Water filled the hole nearly to the top. She looked up at the faces of the others, noting their surprise. “This just doesn’t get any easier now does it?” Kali muttered. “At one time, long, long, ago. There were three rivers feeding the moat protecting the ancient city,” Adjay said. “Cyrus the Persian diverted the Euphrates river. The Tigris changed course over time. It is said that a third river ran underground.” “There’s no stagnant smell to it,” Kali added, “so the water must be moving.” Kali reached into her pack and took out an energy bar, broke off a piece and dropped it into the water. They watched it sink for a bit until it moved away with the current. “Gentlemen, are you up for a swim?” She asked. “I would love a good swim,” Edmond said. He moved toward the opening but Kali put her hand on his arm. “On second thought, better let me go first and check things out. We don’t know what’s down there.” “I want you boys to shine your lights down into the opening. It’s dark down there and it will make it easier for me to find my way back.” “Kali, perhaps I should go,” Gunter said, pointing to himself. Kali took his hand and squeezed it. “Thank you for offering. I would never want to hurt your feelings. But, the last time I saw you swim, I thought I was going to have to save you.” Gunter grumbled in response, and Kali put her hand on his cheek and gave him a warm smile. Gunter picked up his flashlight and shined it down into the water. Edmond and Adjay did the same. Kali rummaged in her pack and pulled out a headband with a light affixed to it.

She breathed deeply several times while looking into the black emptiness and her heart pounded. Putting the headband on and powering it up, she took a deep breath and plunged feet first into the unknown. She took a quick look around. At best, she could hold her breath for about three minutes. It didn’t leave much time to look around. Columns and arches ed the heavy floor above her. A metal shaft ran from beneath the sarcophagus to a latticework of metal holding a wheel turned by the current that powered the mechanism responsible for moving the heavy sarcophagus. She ed by column after column but didn’t see anything of any significance. The burning sensation in her lungs told her it was time to resurface. A tingling in the back of her neck gave her the feeling she wasn’t alone. She thought she saw some movement out of the corner of her eye. She ed it off to be some underwater machinery. On the other side of her, it seemed a shadow moved. Turning just in time, she saw an open maw lined with rows of pointed teeth headed toward her. Instinctively, she contorted her body and the creature narrowly missed her but bumped her with its powerful tail when it swam by. Kali swam behind a column for cover. Turning off her light she hid from the monster. Locating the lights shining down into the water to orient herself, she made for the exit. Beneath her, the giant swam past. The trio of men stood anxiously staring into the opening when Kali popped up like a cork, gasping for air. “Gunter, quick! Hand me Ototo.” Kali called out reaching for it. Kali carried two Samurai katanas strapped to her pack. She named the longer sword Aniki meaning ‘big brother’ in Japanese. Ototo means ‘little brother’. The short sword was better for close quarters combat. It would be much easier to swim with it. Gunter hurried to hand the sword to her. “What is it, Kali? What’s down there?” “I believe I’ve just met Tiamat,” Kali said looking up at the wide-eyed stares of the others. “Either that, or it’s the biggest crocodile I’ve ever seen.” “Kali! Get out of there now!” Gunter demanded. You can’t kill a giant crocodile all alone.”

“I don’t think I can kill it Gunter, but If I don’t find a way to contain it, none of us will get out of here alive. I have an idea that just might work.” Gunter reached for her to pull her out, but she took a deep breath and slipped out of sight. She kept her light off as long as possible and swam toward the machinery she’d spotted. Reaching an enormous waterwheel turning lazily in the current, she switched on her light and waited. Turning to look in every direction, she noted the gears powered by the wheel. The tingling returned and there was movement in her peripheral vision. She moved through the spokes in the wheel when the beast slammed into it. The wheel shuddered violently, and Kali already had doubts about her plan. She doused her light again and swam to the other side of the wheel. When the inky shadow moved away, Kali turned the light on a moment to reorient herself. She might be able to use latticework of heavy bronze bars to her advantage. She waited for the creature to return. Beneath her, rows of sharp teeth were all she could see. Kali kicked wildly in a panic and grabbed the spokes of one of the gears. It swiftly pulled her out of reach. She turned her light off and hid among the gears. The burning in her lungs meant she didn’t have long. She needed air, and soon. When Tiamat moved off, Kali swam over to the lattice of bars. Her idea had to work, she was out of time. Turning on her light, Kali scanned the darkness for the animal. She didn’t have long to wait. She kicked furiously to an opening in the bars, grabbed them and tried to pull herself through. Her hips wedged in tightly. She pushed and wiggled furiously, but couldn’t budge. Something on the other side of the bars grabbed her arm. Kali panicked, wondering what had a hold of her. Edmond pulled Kali’s arm. He braced his feet on the bars and Kali spurt through the opening. The crocodile’s jaws slammed into the metal. The entire structure shuddered violently. The animal’s teeth caught on the thick metal. It tried to wrestle free, but couldn’t budge. Kali quickly shoved Ototo up through the softer lower jaw, pinning it to the bars. Edmond pulled Kali toward the exit and air. He pushed Kali up through the opening first. She clung to the floor, gasping and

coughing. Gunter pulled Kali out. She flopped onto the floor like a wet towel and lay there breathing heavily. Kali fought to stand and Gunter pulled her upright. Edmond leaned against the sarcophagus taking heavy breaths while Adjay stood back, wringing his hands. “Kali, what happened? Did you kill it?” Gunter looked at her, then down into the water. “Kill it?” Kali coughed, then turned an eye toward him. “No, its jaws are tangled up in the metalwork beneath the floor. It’s trapped for now, but it may not be for long.” “Kali is right,” Edmond said. “The metal is heavy, but it may not hold. If we are going to leave, we need to go now. Give me a minute to catch my breath and I’ll go.” He pointed to the far wall. “Adjay, you follow me, Kali and Gunter will be coming when she has regained her strength.” Edmond put his hand on her arm. She smiled and nodded her head. Edmond took a deep breath, then disappeared into the water. Gunter wrapped his arm around Kali. “We can go when you catch your breath.” “I’m alright Gunter, just let me get my gear.” She turned and almost bumped into Adjay. He stared blankly into the water with fear in his eyes, breathing rapidly. “Adjay, what’s wrong?” She knew by the look in his eyes. “Do you know how to swim?” “I grew up in the desert. Water was for drinking.” Adjay slowly backed away from the opening. Gunter rolled his eyes and let out a low growl. Kali contemplated the situation for a moment. She reached into her pack and pulled out some climbing rope. She handed one end of it to Adjay, stretched out the length of rope and tied the other end around her waist. “Gunter, tie the middle around your waist. When we get into the water, you and I will take the lead and pull Adjay through.” She pointed at Adjay. “All you’ll have to do is jump in and hold your breath. Gunter and I will do the rest.”

Adjay shook his head, dropped the rope and backed away from them. Gunter huffed loudly in frustration. “It’s either this or you’ll have to stay behind,” Kali said. “I have no idea if we’ll be coming back this way. I don’t think you want to go back and face Kaseem’s men. I doubt they’ll be happy with your for helping us.” She pointed to the dark hallway leading to the preparation room. Reluctantly, Adjay took the rope and tied it around his waist. They each took their pack, put it on their backs and stood before the opening. Kali put her hand on Gunter’s muscular shoulder. “You go in after me. Adjay, you count to three and jump in.” Adjay nodded in agreement. Kali reached up and grabbed the idol, stuffed it in her pack and dove into the opening. The Sarcophagus began to slowly slide back into place and Gunter stepped off the floor and disappeared into the blackness. Adjay counted to three but fear locked his legs. The sarcophagus was about to block his escape when the line went taught and pulled him, screaming, into the water. Moments later, the sarcophagus sealed itself over the opening, with the sound of stone on stone. Now there was no turning back.

Chapter Fifteen: The Stone Chamber

EDMOND SAT IN THE DARKENED room shining his light on the pool of water before him, searching for any movement. Kali popped her head out, gasping for air, quickly followed by Gunter. They were pulling themselves out when Adjay emerged coughing and splashing in a panic. Gunter stood on the edge, grabbed the rope, bent his knees and pulled. Adjay floated to the edge and flopped onto the stone floor with a soggy thud, gasping for breath. “You made it,” Edmond said, walking toward them. “I was beginning to wonder what happened to you.” “I thought we were going to have to leave Adjay behind. He can’t swim.” Kali untied the rope from her waist. “We finally pulled him in after us. Good thing too, the sarcophagus slid back over the opening when we were in the water. He would have been stranded back there.” “The silly fool could have drowned both of us the way he was fighting,” Gunter grumbled. “He did save us from Kaseem. We wouldn’t have made it out of there alive if he hadn’t stepped in.” Edmond chided Gunter. “Wouldn’t you say, Kali?” Kali didn’t respond, instead, she stood frozen looking at the display on her phone. “Kali, what’s wrong?” Gunter asked. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” “Have you ever had Déjà vu?” Kali asked. “I’m looking at the configuration of this room and I feel like I’ve seen it before.” “Are you saying you’ve been here before?” Edmond asked. He glanced at the display over her shoulder. “How could it be possible?” Gunter’s forehead wrinkled. “I think this is from my dream.” Kali squinted to make out what she could in the darkened room. Columns lined both sides of the wide corridor and in between

them, carvings of Babylonian gods decorated the wall. Two of the columns were toppled over and blocked the path. She crept forward shining her light on their faces. The eyes of the images appeared to follow her causing a chill to race through her body. “After everything we’ve been through up to now, I wonder what fresh hell waits for us in this chamber?” she muttered under her breath. A rush of recognition gave her a spark of adrenaline. She came to the first toppled column and vaulted over it. “Come on you slowpokes!” She called out. “We’re nearly there!” Her voice trailed off and she hurried down the corridor, vaulting over the next column in her path. Gunter, Edmond, and Adjay followed close behind. A change in the design of the floor made the back of Kali’s neck tingle and she stopped in her tracks. “Kali! What are you doing when we’re so close?” Gunter halted next to her. “The floor here is very different, Gunter. I have a bad feeling like it might be another trap.” “How could you know, Kali? No one has been here for centuries?” “See how some of the tiles are different colors? The pattern is irregular.” She moved her light around and found some broken pieces of the column nearby. “Here, let’s do a little experiment” She tucked her light under her arm and picked up two fist-sized bits of rubble. Throwing one onto the floor in front of them, it landed on a white tile with a high-pitched rattle. She tossed the other onto a section of green floor, and it sounded with a dull thud. Kali twisted her lips while she thought. After a quick search, she found a round piece of column that had broken off and decided to put her suspicions to the test. With a grunt, she stood it on edge and rolled it out onto the floor in front of them. After making it across a green tile it rolled onto a white section and dropped out of sight. After a few seconds, a crash sounded somewhere beneath them. Gunter did some quick calculations in his head and whistled. “That was about a forty foot drop. We would not have survived a fall like that.” Gunter stared at the spot where the floor swallowed the column piece. Kali jumped to the green tile and aimed her light into the opening. “There are several skeletons down there

with ancient armor. Could be some of Alexander’s men. There’s also what appears to be French uniforms. Likely some unfortunate soldiers belonging to Napoleon.” “Could I take a look?” Gunter readied himself to leap to the tile but the floor swung back into place sealing the hole. Edmond and Adjay came up just in time to see the stone drop through the floor. “Good heavens!” Edmond exclaimed. “How in the world are we to make it to the other side?” “It appears the light colored tile is a trap,” Gunter replied. “The dark tiles seem to be solid.” “Notice the floor tiles appear different?” Kali pointed out the darker shade of tile. “Let’s see what happens.” She backed up a step and leapt to the closest dark tile. Landing on it gracefully, she prepared to jump off at the slightest sign of trouble. Nothing happened so she looked around and jumped to the next, and then another. “The darker tiles are definitely solid. Follow my lead,” Kali leapt from one green tile to the next. Gunter followed suit and Edmond and Adjay came through last. Edmond jumped to one tile, landed on the edge, and nearly lost his balance. Just before he fell, Gunter jumped back and caught him by his shirt, pulling him upright. Adjay, unconcerned, made his way around by another path. “There,” Gunter said. “You see how he is concerned for your welfare?” He let Edmond go ahead of him to make sure he made it across. They came to a corner and saw Kali standing there frozen. An immense cavern yawned before them with a large stairway stretching from one side of the room to the other. At the top, they saw it, the Evolution Stone. It appeared like creamy jade with a smooth yet irregular surface. A faint green glow emanated from it, pulsing slowly like the breath of someone sleeping. It filled the entire wall. “It must have been a meteor that struck with such force it embedded itself inside the bedrock.” Gunter stared, wide-eyed. The four of them gazed in wonder like a child in a candy store window. “Well, Gunter, what do you think? Isn’t it beautiful?” Kali put her arm around his waist. “It is, without a doubt, the most beautiful sight I have ever seen. It is so big. I

had no idea.” Gunter put his arm around her waist. They looked at one another without a word and strolled toward the stairway. Kali noted a stone stele, similar to the one from her dream. She bit her lower lip, attempting to reach into her memory. “Gunter, this stele must be important, we need to know how it works. Let’s see if we can find some clues. If I recall my dream correctly, we’d better find out before we tackle those stairs.” Gunter studied the carvings on the wall with a three-headed goddess, using a pair of sickle swords in combat. Kali went to examine the waist-high stone stele. Chaldean script covered the smooth top and beneath the writing were two indentations where the base of the statue fit. Kali recognized two of the words from helping Gunter translate the stone tablets. First, she made out the word life above one of the receptacles. She had no doubt about the word on the other. It said death. Kali ran her fingers over the letters, trying to every detail of her dream. Edmond looked over her shoulder. “Well, well, it seems we have a choice to make, two selections eh? Can you make out any of the text Kali?” “All I seem to be able to make out are the words life and death. The text might as well be Greek to me. I wish it were Greek, I can read that.” Gunter finally walked up behind them and Kali expected him to push through and translate the text, but he just stood there. “So, Gunter, translate this for us and let’s see what sort of vile contraption waits at the top of these stairs.” Gunter didn’t answer. Edmond and Kali turned to look at him. He stood, mouth open, eyes glazed over and fixed on the green glow coming from the top of the stairs. He let out a deep sigh and collapsed to the floor. Behind Gunter stood Adjay, holding his knife with Gunter’s blood on it. He held Gunter’s gun in the other hand. Kali couldn’t move or breathe. She wanted to scream but nothing came out. Her eyes went from Adjay’s bloody knife to Gunter, crumpled on the floor. “Adjay! How could you?” Edmond shouted, his face red with rage. He quickly knelt beside Gunter. He could see the spreading red stain on the back of Gunter’s

shirt. Pulling out his bandanna, he folded it and placed it over the wound. He rolled Gunter on his back, letting his weight put pressure on the wound. Kali knelt beside Gunter and felt his pulse. “His pulse is strong but I think he’s going into shock.” She placed her hand on his cheek and tears welled up in her eyes. Gunter’s lifelong quest was about to be realized and now this. Anger burned in her gut. “You fool, we saved your life. We could have left you back in the crypt to starve to death and this is how you repay us?” She stood and began to move toward Adjay. Edmond jumped up and wrapped his arms around her to hold her back. Kali fought to free herself, but he held on with an iron grip. Her chest was heaving with fury as she fought to reach Adjay. Tears burned her eyes and streamed down her face. “Let me go, Edmond. Let me go so I can rip his heart out with my bare hands!” She finally collapsed to the floor, sobbing. She reached out her hand to Gunter. Kali finally gained her composure and stood to face Adjay with her fists clenched. “Alright, Adjay! What do you want?” She used the back of her hands to wipe the tears away. “I only want the same thing you want Miss Hunter. I want to be the ruler of the world.” A sinister grin spread across his face. “All my life people have treated me like a servant. Well, no more!” He shouted while waving the gun in the air. “Now, when I speak people will quake with fear. People will bow in respect.” “Adjay put the gun down and stop this foolishness before it’s too late,” Edmond demanded and took a step toward him. Adjay pointed the gun at him and pulled back the hammer. Edmond backed away from him, hands raised. Adjay motioned for them to move away from the stele. “Now, step back and give me the statue.” He stuck his knife back into his belt. Kali considered throwing the idol at him. She could aim for his chest with the swords and end this nonsense. She pulled off her pack and freed the statue. Holding it for a moment, an idea struck her and she tossed the idol to him. Adjay turned the base until it matched the engraving on the stele. He pushed it into the empty socket with the word life. The sound of the ancient mechanism engaged, triggered by the lodestone in the base, and echoed through the cavern.

Adjay kept the gun trained on them while he backed toward the staircase. “When Babylon becomes the supreme power and your countries quake with fear, if you are fortunate, I may make you my servants. And you miss Hunter, I may favor you with a place in my harem.” He smiled broadly and his eyes twinkled as he sneered at her. Kali glared back at Adjay and her lips curled into a smile. “We can’t just stand here, we have to stop this fool before he gets to the Evolution Stone. We can’t let him get away with this.” “We don’t have to do a thing, Edmond. The fool is already dead, he just doesn’t know it yet.” Adjay climbed up a couple of steps and stopped, turning to face them. “Now that I think about it, I enjoyed killing Mr. von Hausen so much, I think I will enjoy killing the two of you.” He leveled the gun at Kali and a shot rang out. She found herself on the floor with Edmond on top of her. She noticed blood oozing onto Edmond’s shirt sleeve. “Edmond, you’ve been hit. How bad is it?” “It’s nothing, it’s just a scratch.” Adjay backed onto the next step and adjusted his aim. Kali and Edmond stared into the bore of his gun. Before he could squeeze the trigger, two massive sections of stone steps swung up and slammed together. A sickening crunch echoed through the chamber, every bone in Adjay’s body broke at the same time. The two sections pivoted back down, stained with his blood. His corpse tumbled down the steps like a bundle of rags. It plopped at the bottom in a mangled heap and lay there a moment before the floor opened and swallowed him whole. “How on earth did you know what would happen?” Edmond stared at the bloodstained steps. Kali knelt down and shook Gunter. “Gunter, Gunter! Can you hear me?” She took his face gently in her hands and patted his cheek. “The night Gunter called me he woke me from a vivid dream about this place. Except for a few details, my dream was amazingly accurate.” Kali saw him bleeding profusely and

reached into her pack for some bandages. She rolled him on his side, grunting from the effort. She pressed them hard against the wound and rolled him onto his back. Her eyes misted and she tried to blink away the tears. “Kali,” Gunter whispered. “We made it, didn’t we? We found the Evolution Stone. After a lifetime of searching, we finally proved it is real.” Kali looked at him with her soft brown eyes, rivulets of tears flowed down her cheeks. She ran her hand across his face. Instead of the strong and robust man she had known all her life, he looked so frail and small. “Save your strength, we’re going to get you out of here. Before you know it, you’ll be back at home.” Kali wiped the beads of sweat away from his brow and gently kissed him on the forehead. Gunter smiled up at her. “You always believed in me Kali, you and your father have always been my fondest friends. You will go back and tell those fools I was right all along won’t you?” Kali put a finger to his lips to quiet him. “We’ll both go back and give those ne’er do wells a good dressing down for ever doubting you. I’ll go see if I can get us out of here.” Gunter reached out and took her hand. “Kali, use the Stone. Go and get your father back.” “Gunter, what are you saying?” She tried to read his face. “Please Kali, I have known all along that you want to use the Stone to bring your father back.” “But Gunter, I...” “It is what I would do.” Gunter’s voice was just above a whisper. Kali leaned closer to him. “I have known you your whole life, my dear. You cannot fool me. Use the Stone. Get your father back. Tell him I...” Gunter’s eyes closed and his mouth fell slack. Kali checked his pulse again. “Gunter, you hold on. Don’t you give up.” Kali looked up at Edmond. Concern etched in his face.

“Edmond keep pressure on his wound. I have to go up there. I have a wish to make.” Edmond sat on the floor and rested Gunter’s head on his legs. “Kali, you can’t go up those stairs, it’s suicide.” Edmond reached his hand out to her. “You saw what happened to Adjay. How will I get Gunter out of here without your help?” “My friend, we can’t go back the way we came. The way out is at the top of those stairs. If I can get to the Evolution Stone, I can wish all of this away as if it never happened. Adjay made the mistake of trusting the builders of this place. But they’ve tried to kill us ever since we set foot in here.” She ran her hands across the right indentation. Kali blew away the dust. She noted the inscription for death carved beneath it. Kali ed the translation from the idol. “You must choose death,” she muttered. She placed the statue into the right opening, hesitated briefly, and pushed. Noises came from beneath the floor and she hoped it meant that she made the correct choice. “Now we’ll see if I’m right.” Kali looked back at Gunter, then turned and walked up the steps. “Hurry Kali. Kali? What’s happened to your eyes? They’re as black as midnight,” Edmond called to her. Gunter lay there with his eyes closed, his breathing labored and raspy. Kali didn’t respond. That odd feeling she had in the preparation chamber overwhelmed her again. She felt like wasn’t in control of her body anymore. She turned and hurried up the stairs. Relief swept over her when she ed the spot where Adjay met his grisly end. She reached the top of the staircase and looked cautiously around. Polished white limestone covered the floor with a wide black border all around. The eerie green glow emanating from the stone grew brighter when she approached. In front of the Evolution Stone stood the statue she knew all too well. The idol she uncovered so many years ago was an exact replica. The statue stood a head taller than Kali. The base of the neck split into three, each ing a head. The one on the right bore the face of a woman with fangs protruding from her grimacing mouth. Wide, glaring eyes seemed to follow her movements. The face of a lioness stared back at her from the center, the mouth open and filled with sharp teeth. The third head bore the face of a snarling wolf. It’s nose scrunched

back to bare long fangs extending below the jaws. It held sickle swords in each hand crossed over its head. Now, she had to find out if the rest of her dream was accurate. Kali crept forward, watching for any sign of danger. The light from the Stone brightened until she had to shield her eyes. The light subsided, and it took a few seconds for her eyes to adjust. Heavy footsteps sounded in front of her. She opened her eyes and gasped. A chill shot through Kali. The triune goddess of the underworld, the guardian of the Evolution Stone, Labartu, Labasu, and Akhkhazu, stood with swords crossed before its bare breasts. Kali couldn’t help but ire the artisanship of the statue, the intricacy of the faces, and the smoothness of how the ts operated. She reached for her swords but ed she’d left Ototo behind. On the far wall, a pair of crossed sickle swords hung. If only she could make it past the statue. The creature moved faster than Kali anticipated. It came toward her and swung both swords simultaneously. Kali ducked and a lock of blonde hair floated to the floor. She rolled in a somersault and came up in a dead run toward the far wall. She put Aniki back into its sheath and snatched the pair of sickle swords. Heavy footsteps closed on her fast. Kali brought her swords up just in time to ward off the slice from the creature’s attack. She kicked it in the stomach. The blow would have knocked the wind out of a human opponent. Instead, the creature, thrown off balance, staggered back a few steps before it could recover. The creature made a stabbing motion with its right sword and swung the other sword from the left. Kali blocked both with a sweeping move of her right blade and used the space she’d cleared to spin to her right behind it to create space between them. She hefted the sword in each hand to assess their balance and weight. But, she never took her eyes from the creature, trying to judge its next move. The statue stood for a moment and then attacked. The idol lurched toward her while bringing both blades down from above. She blocked the blow, then bent her arms and with all her strength pushed it away. She sprinted toward the idol and jumped, planting both feet on its chest. Kali flipped backward and landed several feet away and the idol staggered back several steps. Kali’s movements

were a blur, covering the statue with nicks and gashes. The creature came at her again. Backing away, she blocked one blow after another. Kali stopped her retreat, and the idol brought both blades down at once. Kali crossed her weapons and blocked them but the creature was stronger. Grimacing, she came to her knees, then dove through its legs, turned over and flipped backward landing on her feet. The creature charged again, this time with a flurry of roundhouse swings first left then right. Kali blocked each one while backing away. Sparks flew from clashing blades and the sound echoed off the walls. Kali spun to gain momentum and kicked the left arm of the idol. She followed through and sliced off its hand. A rush of adrenaline-charged her when the hand, still clinging to the sickle sword fell to the floor and tumbled down the stairs. “Kali,” Edmond called out, “I don’t think Gunter is going to make it. I can’t feel his pulse” With Kali distracted, the idol kicked her in the chest. She sailed through the air and landed hard and her head hit the floor. The heavy swords flew from her hands. One slid all the way to the far wall. The other clattered down the staircase. Everything went black for a moment. When she managed to open her eyes, the room began to spin and her head throbbed. Kali gasped for breath. The floor vibrated when heavy footsteps approached. Opening her eyes she saw two of everything. Her heart raced. I can’t fail now. Not after coming this far. I have to do something, anything. The idol marched toward her. Standing over Kali, it raised a sword high above its head. The creature bent forward, ready to impale her to the floor. Kali’s scream filled the cavern. With every last ounce of energy, she pulled Aniki and swung. The sharp katana embedded deeply into the base where the three necks ed. She pushed upward on the handle, groaning, straining with every ounce of energy. Finally, a crack sounded, and the base of the neck broke away, sliding down her blade. They tumbled onto the floor beyond her and spun to a stop several feet away. Kali pushed her feet against the idols knees and what was left of the creature crashed onto the hard stone floor and broke apart. “Kali, you have to hurry! I can’t feel his pulse!” Edmond called out.

She rested a moment, her eyes closed, breathing hard. With the goddess beaten, she blew out a long sigh of relief. “I’m on it Edmond,” She called back to him, “I have no idea what’s going to happen. Be ready for anything.” Kali tried to stand, but lost her balance and fell forward. Getting onto her hands and knees, she slowly stood upright. She blinked several times, but still saw double. Her arms and legs ached with every movement. It was difficult to breathe. She felt like collapsing. Not sure she could make it, she willed her body onward. Kali stumbled toward the Evolution Stone. The closer she got, the brighter the light became. She held up her hand, still stained with Gunter’s blood, to shield her eyes. A howling squall blew through the chamber, growing with intensity when she approached the stone. The gale force wind swept up rock and debris and blew them around like chaff in a tornado. Stones slammed into the cavern walls and shattered. Kali rested her hand on the stone and uttered her wish in a soft voice. A brilliant flash of light enveloped the cavern swallowing her whole. As suddenly as it began, the light went out. The squall abated and everything crashed to the floor. The chamber was again, silent, dark and empty. The stone goddess, Labartu, Labasu, and Akhkhazu, stood intact on her pedestal awaiting the next challenger.

Part Two:...You Just Might Get It

Chapter Sixteen: A New Timeline

IRAQI SCIENCE MINISTER Afra sat patiently in his office and watched the American scientist carefully examine his files. On the final day of inspections, the teams of U.S. nuclear technicians were being more thorough than usual. “Mr. Jeffries, please, I do not mean to be rude.” Afra wrung his hands and mopped his sweaty brow. “I have an appointment with the president. If I do not leave now, I will be very late.” “I am sorry Mr. Afra. Our instructions were to be thorough. This is our last day and if I miss anything I’m going to get an ass chewing from my boss.” Afra scratched his head. “Ass chewing? I am sorry, your American slang escapes me.” Jeffries laughed. “Ass chewing is when your boss gets mad and yells at you for not doing your job right.” “Ah, yes, I see. But, if I do not leave soon. I will get this ass chewing from my boss. Please, Mr. Jeffries. Could I encourage you to hurry things along?” Afra’s mind went back to the unexplained disappearance of his predecessor, Mr. Nawal, the former science minister. Nawal went to the presidential palace two months ago to report to the president. No one ever heard from him again. Afra suspected Nawal rested somewhere in a shallow grave or languished in dark prison cell. The president had wanted nuclear weapons for over 30 years and he’d run out of patience. The interference of the United Nations and the Americans had heightened his craving, not lessened them. The news Afra carried in his upperright breast pocket might be the only thing to spare his life today. Jeffries smiled. “Alright Mr. Afra, I’ll make you a deal. You stop looking over my shoulder and I’ll try to speed things up. Deal?” Afra nodded and went to the other side of the room, finding an empty chair to occupy. He sat watching as the minutes ticked by. After an agonizing thirty minutes, Jeffries finally stood. “Alright, I believe I have everything I need. I’ll have my report typed up and we’ll be out of your hair by tomorrow.” Afra’s hand went to his thinning head of hair.

The American chuckled, “Out of your hair is an expression that means I won’t be bothering you anymore.” The men shook hands and Afra snatched up the papers Jeffries handed him. He jammed them into his briefcase and hurried out the door. Jumping into his car, he raced toward the presidential palace, all the way on the other side of town, at rush hour. Afra walked as fast as his stubby legs would allow down the hallway, his steps echoing off the walls. The high polish on the tile reflected his thick mid-section as he hurried along. A feeling of dread grew as he approached the President’s conference room. He was not the kind of man to be kept waiting. He stopped just outside the door, straightened his tie and walked in. The president sat solemnly, looking first at Afra, then at his watch, while the other cabinet waited. He gave a slight bow to the president and shuffled to the only empty chair in the room. Paintings on the wall depicting ancient Babylon at the height of its glory decorated the room. The massive walls of the ancient city were surrounded by the Euphrates river a wide moat. Another large painting showed the Hanging Gardens with walls ten tiers high and columns ing each tier. Large steps connected each of the levels, each covered with plants and trees collected from Media, home to Queen Amytus, wife of Nebuchadnezzar. He ordered the gardens built because his wife longed for the hills of her Median youth. “First we will hear from Secretary of State, Minister Dima.” The President said, nodding in his direction. Dima stood, papers in hand and cleared his throat. “We were able to convince Ambassador Jackson Hunter that our country would cooperate fully with his government. He, in turn, was able to convince his President not to invade our country. The American troops have withdrawn from our borders and have returned home. “The news media is reporting the successful treaty negotiated between our governments. The treaty states our government will cease all research and development of nuclear weapons in Iraq. After a year-long negotiation, Ambassador Hunter has already left for home. The United States government has recalled all of their inspection teams and they will be leaving the country

tomorrow. Our mobile research facilities have remained undetected. As far as the rest of the world is concerned, Iraq poses no threat to them.” “Excellent.” The president motioned to the other side of the table. “Now, Science Minister Afra, what news do you have from our mobile research facilities?” Afra’s hand shook as he pulled the papers from his suit pocket. “Mr. President, ministers, we have had a difficult time obtaining our objective. Because the research has been split up between ten mobile labs, coordination of our efforts has been difficult, to say the least.” He cleared his throat and pulled at his collar. He thought he heard the snap of a holster being opened and his heart raced. “Your incompetence is not to be believed!” Vice-president Shamir slammed the table with his fist. “We have depended on your division to free us from the tyranny of the infidels. They hold us back from becoming the supreme government the almighty intends us to be...” He stopped his tirade when the president held his hand up to silence him. When the room grew quiet, he nodded his head toward Afra to continue with his report. “As I was about to say, we are on the verge of a breakthrough. With the Americans gone, if we are allowed to move back into our main facility, I am confident we will have the results we seek in short order.” “What kind of results can we expect?” the president asked, eyes narrowed on Afra. “We have already refined a minute amount of weapons-grade material. When we can develop a sufficient amount, we will be able to exchange a conventional warhead for a nuclear warhead. They will be capable of delivering a payload as far away as Europe.” The president’s lips curled into a smile and Afra breathed a sigh of relief. “Good news indeed, Minister Afra,” the president said as he stood. He walked to the painting of ancient Babylon with a man wearing a large crown standing atop the walls. The president crossed his arms and raised his chin, mimicking the king’s pose. “No longer will we be bullied by the Americans or anyone else. You have one week to bring me news this has been accomplished. Now, go. Put your lab together.”

Chapter Seventeen: A New Beginning

KALI’S HAND EMERGED from her comfortable covers to silence the annoying telephone insisting on stealing her sleep. Knocking the alarm clock to the floor, she pulled the handset under the covers. “Hello,” Kali said in a slurred voice. “Kali? It’s Edmond. Are you alright?” “I feel like I was stuffed into a gunny sack and beaten with a bat. I’ve had about two hours sleep in the last 3 days. I hurt in places I never knew I could. My head is pounding from that bump on the floor. My ears are ringing and the room is spinning. I probably have a concussion. How about you?” “I’m exhausted but otherwise fine. I woke up in my own bed this morning. I have no idea how I got here. My guess is that this is all a result of your wish on the Evolution Stone. I’ve been wondering. What did you wish for?” “I wished to get my father back.” “Your father? You could’ve wished for anything in the world.” “My mother died when my brothers were born. Five years ago, my father left on a mission with the ambassador to Iraq and their plane crashed. It left such a gaping void in my life. Oh, I’ve managed to bury my feelings by keeping myself busy. But there’s always been an ache there, every day, and I could never get rid of it. I don’t want to rule anyone Edmond. My father was taken away from me and I just want him back.” “Have you seen this morning’s headlines?” “No, I’m still in bed.” “Well, here’s something that should please you.” Edmond cleared his throat. ‘“Ambassador Jackson Hunter is flying home to the United States today. He has spent a year in Iraq successfully negotiating a nuclear disarmament treaty. The President of the United States hailed the treaty as a brilliant negotiation strategy. ‘It will end unrest in the Middle East, and bring security for much of the world,’ he was quoted as saying. After a debriefing at the White House, Ambassador

Hunter is going home for a long deserved rest. ‘The entire time I have been away, my daughter and two sons were constantly in my thoughts. I can’t wait to see them again,’ said Hunter.”’ Tears streamed down Kali’s cheeks. “Oh my God! It worked. It really worked!” She choked back a sob and took several deep breaths to compose herself. “Does the article say anything else?” “Other than a long boring tirade of political rhetoric, no, that’s about it. But, there’s another article on page three I thought you should hear.” Kali heard papers rustling as Edmond turned the pages. ‘“Renowned archaeologist Gunter von Hausen was slain yesterday at the ancient ruins of Babylon. It appeared to be an attempted robbery gone awry. The suspect, known to locals only as ‘Adjay’, fled on foot and was struck and killed by a train carrying tourists by the historic site.”’ The telephone line went silent for several moments. Kali took the bed sheet and wiped away the tears pouring from her eyes. Her voice broke as she spoke, “At least that rat got what he deserved. I don’t understand. I hoped since my wish changed history, that he would be alright.” “Hmm, I don’t know what the rules are for wish-making if there are any. But since your wish changed history for the last five years, there’s no way to know what the results would be. I’m so sorry Kali. I know you did everything you could. I’m going to miss him. He was a good friend. I hadn’t known Gunter as long as you and your father. Did he have any family?” “No, he never married, and his family is all gone. Do you know what they’re doing with the body?” “If no one objects, I want to have him buried in my family plot on my estate. I’m going to be planning a small funeral service. I do hope you and your father can attend.” “I think Gunter would like that very much. He loved England. Please let me know what the arrangements are. I’ll be there and I’m sure dad will want to come too.”

“I’ll you as soon as everything is finalized. We’ll have a nice outdoor service.” “That sounds good Edmond. I’ll look forward to your call.” “Speaking of changes, ever since I got up this morning I’ve noticed things are different.” “How so?” “There are a lot of subtle things, furnishings about the house, a different chap for my groundskeeper.” “It stands to reason there might be a few changes.” “There appear to be some major changes as well. Do you the President of Iraq? The chap your American soldiers removed from power. There’s a news article about him in the paper this morning. ‘The president of Iraq has high praise for American ambassador Jackson Hunter, calling him a true friend of the Iraqi people.’”’ “All I know so far is my bed feels the same. Dad won’t be home until tomorrow, so I’m planning on spending most of the day here after the ordeal we’ve been through.” The pounding of her headache was forgotten with the sheer joy she had in her heart. “We’re in a different timeline, Kali. You need to take things slowly. You should be careful what you say and do. No one but you and I will the timeline we were in before. People might think we’ve flipped our lids.” “I don’t think I can get into much trouble by staying in bed. I’ve got two nights sleep to catch up on. Do me when you have the arrangements for Gunter made.” “You get some sleep Kali, I’ll be in touch.” Kali lay there with a warm feeling spreading through her chest knowing she would see her father tomorrow. A door opened, then closed and her bed jostled when someone sat next to her. She didn’t think anything of it. From time to time, Devon would come in and sit on the bed if he wanted to discuss something

important. She expected him to ply her with questions about her adventure. “Need more sleep, come back later Devon,” She groaned in a sleepy voice. Kali was annoyed by him pulling on the cover. He kissed her on the forehead which made her smile. Then he kissed her on the lips and pushed his tongue into her mouth. In her sleep-deprived brain, it took a split-second for it to just what was happening. But what she heard next shocked her. “Hey beautiful, how about a roll in the hay before I have to go to work.” Kali’s eyes popped open and saw a very naked Alec Desmond sitting next to her on the bed.

DEVON LEFT HIS ROOM and headed down the hall toward the stairs. He carried a couple of books he’d finished reading, taking them back to the library to put away. As he ed Kali’s bedroom door he heard a commotion that sounded like the beginning of world war three. Kali screamed and heavy objects crashed onto the floor and walls. The door flew open. Alec sailed out and landed face down in front of Devon, naked as a newborn. The door slammed shut behind him and there was a moment of silence. Alec lay still a moment before a moan came from him. He rolled over and Devon could only stare wide-eyed at the spectacle. Alec shook his head and looked down at himself, then quickly covered himself with his hands. Devon looked at him, then at the books he held, and grudgingly handed them to Alec. Kali’s door flew open again. She marched out and pointed her finger at Alec. “I’m going to get Aniki,” she shouted. “If you’re still here when I get back, I’m going to separate you from every protruding part of your body!” The door slammed shut and an awkward silence hung in the air. Desmond struggled to stand while covering the necessary parts and asked, “Aniki? What in blazes is Aniki?” “She has two katanas. Ototo is the short sword or ‘little brother’ in Japanese. She lost it. I still haven’t heard the explanation how it happened. Aniki is Japanese for ‘big brother’.” “Big brother?” Alec raised an eyebrow. “Big brother.” Devon held his hands three feet apart to emphasize his point. “I’d take her seriously if I were you. I’ve seen that look in her eyes before.” “But all my clothes are in there.” Alec tilted his head toward the closed door. Devon placed his hand on Alec’s shoulder and pointed. “Just go in my room and find something you can wear, if you stay out here much longer you might end up needing a much shorter inseam. Second door on the right, there you go.” “Thanks, Devon, I’ll get these back to you.” Alec used one book to cover his

front and the other to cover his exit. “Why don’t you just keep those, I’m finished reading them anyway.” Devon wrinkled his nose and waved him on. “Oh, it might be a good idea to take the back stairs and go out through the kitchen. I’ll try to keep her occupied.” Devon chuckled to himself and shook his head. Alec fumbled with the doorknob. The heavy book slipped from his grasp and fell on top of his foot with a thump. He let out a yelp, followed by mumbled curse words as he hopped on one foot and opened the door. He kicked the book inside, and limped through the doorway, shutting it behind him. Devon turned to Kali’s door, took a deep breath to steel his resolve and knocked. “What...” Kali shouted as the door flew open. Seeing Devon, she toned down from furious to aggravated, “...do you want?” She spun on her heel and stomped back into her room. Devon followed her. Throwing back her comforter, she climbed into bed and pulled the covers over her head. Devon sat on the edge of the bed and looked around the room at the devastation. He closed his eyes and shook his head. “Would you like to talk about it?” Kali jerked the covers down and shot an angry glare at him. “Just what was he doing in my room? Especially after he tried to kill me! How did he even get in the house in the first place? Have you called the police? Why isn’t he in jail already?” Devon traced his fingers along the bruises and scratches on the side of her head and arms. “Hmm, the doctor did say you might have some temporary amnesia after your accident. But, he didn’t say anything about delusions. Maybe I’d better call him. Are you running a fever?” He put his hand on her forehead. Devon sighed and took her wrist to feel her pulse while he looked at his watch. “Do you the accident?” He reached for the telephone when she put her hand on his arm. “Accident? Wait... I was in an accident?” she said with a faint voice. “I don’t any accident. What happened? How did I get home?”

“What’s the last thing you ?” Kali propped herself up in bed and Devon placed a pillow behind her for . “I can driving away...” her voice trailed off. “You went into town to see about replacing Ototo. Do you how it got lost?” She shook her head and gave her brother a doe-eyed look. “You were t-boned by a driver who ran a stop sign. The doctor said you were fortunate to come away with only a concussion. You’ve got a nasty bump on your head. You’re fortunate to come out with just a few scrapes and bruises. I wish I could say the same for your car. It’s going to be a couple of months before we get it back. Anyway, we brought you here so I could look after you. The doc gave you a sedative because you haven’t been resting well. You’ve been having nightmares. You’ve been in bed for two days now. I thought we were going to have to diaper you.” “You and what army?” Kali punched him in the arm and winced and rubbed her shoulder. Devon moved her forward as he worked his way behind her and began kneading her shoulders. Kali’s head lolled forward. “Will you look at the mess you’ve made in here?” Devon massaged her shoulders and back. “Dad is coming home. What’s he going to say when he finds out you still don’t have your evil temper under control? And what’s this ruckus with Alec? Is that any way to treat your husband?” When Kali didn’t reply, he moved his head around and saw she was fast asleep. He gently moved out from behind her and lay her down on her pillow. He tiptoed around the room while picking up the worst of the mess, leaving the rest for later.

KALI FOUND HERSELF in a wedding gown, running down the hallway of Desmond Advanced Technology. Her footsteps echoed in the empty halls. Every corner she turned led to another empty corridor. Just when she began to think it would never end, she found herself surrounded by security guards, all pointing weapons at her. The men parted as Alec Desmond walked through smoking a cigar. She seemed to hover above herself and as she watched the ordeal. Desmond pulled out a gun and shot her in the chest three times. Her body slammed into the wall from the impact of the bullets tearing into her flesh. She slid down to the floor leaving a streak of blood on the wall. Kali awoke gasping for air and clutching her chest. Feeling up and down she pulled out her pajama top and stuck her head in. The fabric puffed in and out with her heavy breathing. Only pink skin, no bullet holes, and no blood. She blew out a long sigh of relief and fell back onto the pillow staring wide-eyed at the ceiling. Her breathing slowly returned to normal and her heart stopped racing. The bedside clock read one in the afternoon. That and her growling stomach told her she needed nourishment. She put on her robe and padded out the door with her toes peeking out from her baggy pajama bottoms. The moment she stepped into the hall, the aroma of coffee lured her, like the sirens song, down the stairs, and toward the kitchen. She found the kitchen empty, yet a full pot of fresh coffee and a clean empty cup waited for her. After downing one cup, she poured another and turned her attention toward the refrigerator. She opened both doors and gathered items. Butter, jelly, waffles, bacon, eggs, and anything else she could carry. She sat them on the counter, turned on the stove and the carnage began. Her hunger sated and her belly swollen, she pushed her plate back. Kali leaned back in her chair, closed her eyes and blew out a long sigh. “Well, well, what do we have here?” The voice behind her sounded vaguely like Desmond. She picked up her butter knife and whirled around preparing to impale him. Her eyes widened, her mouth fell open and the knife dropped to the floor. There, in the doorway, stood Jackson Hunter. Looking travel weary, and unshaven, he wore a smile from ear to ear. He held his arms open and she didn’t

hesitate. She ran to him and wrapped him in a bear hug. He staggered back a step from the impact, and when he recovered, he put his arms around her. “I thought I would never see you again,” Kali’s voice was muffled, buried in his shoulder, tears streaming from her eyes. “I know it’s been a year since I left kitten, but you always knew I would come home.” He patted her shoulder. “I’m never letting you go again, ever.” He took hold of her shoulders and held her at arm's length. “Let me get a look at you. Devon told me about your accident. He said you got a pretty bad concussion.” He ran his fingers through her hair. “That’s quite a bump you’ve got there. How are you feeling? Any dizziness or nausea?” “Bent but not broken, but I’ll be fine now that you’re back.” She wrapped her arms around him again and squeezed tightly, letting out a contented sigh. His grizzled face scratched at her cheek, but she didn’t mind, she was lost in the moment wishing time would stop. “Now, what’s this I hear about you and Alec fighting? And in your condition too, so soon after your accident. I thought you were doing better about controlling your temper.” She pulled away, looking her father in the eye, not believing what he said. Alec Desmond and her father had been adversaries for years, ever since the first Hunter Recovery job. She opened her mouth to say so when Edmond’s warning rang in her mind. “We should be careful what we say and do...” Kali closed her mouth, and her mind raced to think of the proper response. “Ah, so here you are.” Devon strolled into the kitchen. “Dad told me over the phone this morning not to say anything. He wanted to surprise you.” Looking around at the wake of destruction left in the kitchen, he shook his head. “I see Hurricane Kali hit the kitchen too. Half a dozen hired help quit because of this one.” He tilted his head toward his sister, picking up jars and bottles, and putting them away.

“Hmm, I can see we’re going to have a long talk aren’t we young lady?” She hugged her father again. He would never know all she’d gone through just to have this moment. Jackson kissed her on the forehead and held her at arm’s length. “Now, I’m ready for a long hot shower and a shave. We can talk later.” “I had all your clothes cleaned and put away in your room,” Devon said. “I’ll straighten up in here.” Kali picked up her mug and filled it with coffee. She shuffled out of the kitchen with a contented smile on her face. Though nearly every muscle in her body ached, she tried her best to ignore it. She made her way to her office where she could sit in her comfortable chair, sip coffee and look out the window. At the moment, everything was right with the world. Kali walked into the room, a dreamy look still on her face and went to her desk. She started to sit down but fell to the floor with a thud. First one hand appeared on top of the desk, and then the other with the mug still attached to her finger. Pulling herself up, blowing wet hair out of her eyes, she blinked several times, then squinted. Everything in the office had changed. The desk faced the opposite way with the chair on the other side. The shelves were full of books with unfamiliar titles, pictures on the wall she hadn’t put there. Her eyes fell on the one familiar item. The bronze idol she uncovered at Babylon stared at her from inside a glass case. She forgot all about her coffee soaked hair and clothes and walked over to examine the idol. Her eyes glazed over. The thought finally sank in. Her wish changed the timeline. Everything changed back to the way it was before her father’s disappearance. Walking along the walls Kali saw her father’s college diplomas, his favorite photographs and various awards he’d won. Kali stopped at one picture she knew well. The photo of her holding the bronze idol she’d found. She put her finger on Gunter’s smiling face. Her eyes misted and her heart ached that she wasn’t able to save a lifelong friend. “There’s my girl. Now I’ve had a chance to clean up and change, how about we do some catching up?” Jackson strolled up behind her. Kali spun around and her father’s mouth dropped open.

“What happened to you Kitten?” “Oh, sorry dad. I wasn’t watching and I tripped.” Kali brushed her wet bangs out of her eyes. Jackson shook his head, took a few steps over to his desk, opened a box and pulled out a cigar. He ran it under his nose to savor the aroma and clipped the end, stuck it between his teeth and lit it. He leaned back in his chair and blew smoke rings into the air. Kali took a deep breath to savor the aroma. She’d spent many a happy hour as a child sitting on her father’s lap as he smoked a cigar and talked about the cares of the day. After a minute, her head began to throb, the room started to spin and her stomach moved like she was standing on the deck of a small boat on a stormy sea. She ran her hand across her scalp, the lump on her head ached. She felt her breakfast churn and fled from the room, almost knocking Devon over when he walked in the door.

“WHAT’S UP WITH HER?” Devon asked as he watched Kali race to the nearest bathroom. “I’m not sure, but it looks like something she ate didn’t agree with her.” Jackson exhaled smoke and tapped ash off the end of his cigar. “The doctor said this might happen. A concussion can cause nausea.” He shook his head at the puddle of coffee covering the desk and floor. “I see Hurricane Kali struck here too.”

KALI FLUSHED THE TOILET and held her mouth under the sink to rinse it out. She changed into a fresh set of clothes and walked on shaky legs back to her bed. “I must’ve hit my head harder than I thought,” she groaned and curled into a ball. The faint sound of the phone ringing downstairs distracted her for a moment. She closed her eyes and tried to forget the sick feeling in her stomach. A light tapping came on her door and she knew it must be Devon by the knock, followed by his usual, “Sis, you decent?” He pushed the door open. “Dean Hartwell from the college is on the phone. He’s asking how you’re feeling and wondering how much longer before you can come back to work.” Kali opened her mouth, but no words came out. She jumped out of bed and ran to the bathroom. After a few moments of silence, he shouted, “I’ll let him know that it might be a couple of weeks before you’re ready.” After flushing what must have been meals from last week, her mind burned with questions. Dean Hartwell? Back to work? She needed to find out what Kali Hunter’s life was like in this new timeline. She sat at her computer and pulled up a search program. Typing in her name, she hit enter and waited for the results.

Chapter Eighteen: A Twist In The Tale

KALI SAT IN STUNNED disbelief at the readout on the computer screen. *Kali Hunter born, 1981, Chicago, Illinois *Height: 5’ 6” * Parents: Jackson Hunter, currently serving as ambassador to Iraq Mother: Catherine Hunter (deceased.) *Siblings: Devon and Bruce Hunter (twins) *Accepted at Stanford University at age 17. Graduated top of her class *Received P.H.D. from Yale University *Currently a professor of Archaeology at University of Chicago “Well, at least all those trips to the Field Museum paid off,” Kali muttered under her breath. The information in itself surprised her, but what came next nearly put her in shock. *Married Alec Desmond in 2012 “Alec Desmond! Married? Was I insane?” Kali threw her hands up. She stood and paced the floor. “Maybe he drugged me.” A glint of light from the nightstand caught her eye. She slipped on an enormous engagement ring along with a wedding band and held it up to the light. “I wonder what he stole to buy this.” “Somebody stole something?” Kali gasped and put her hand behind her back. Her father stood in the doorway. “No, dad, just trying to piece everything together. The last few days have been a little rough...with the accident and all. I keep getting sick to my stomach from this concussion.” “Devon told me what happened this morning between you and Alec. Is there anything you want to talk about?” Jackson sat on the edge of her bed.

Kali opened her mouth to tell him her litany of complaints regarding Alec Desmond, including the fact he’d tried to kill her. Even if he did shoot at a hologram of her, it didn’t matter. But, it would be better to say as little as possible. “Just a misunderstanding. Things will cool off. I just need a little time.” She sat next to him on the bed and put her head on his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her. She buried her face in his shirt and blew out a contented sigh, then her nose picked up the aroma of cigar smoke. It didn’t take long for her stomach to churn and she sprinted for the bathroom. After a few minutes, she came back into the bedroom and sat against the headboard away from him. “You know, I’m beginning to think it’s the cigar smell getting to me.” Kali fluffed a pillow and leaned against the headboard. “The doctor said that with your concussion you could expect some dizziness and nausea. It should clear up in a few days.” Kali traced her finger across the bump she’d gotten from the fall on the stone floor. “Not to worry, I’ve had worse bumps than this. I’ll be fine soon enough.” “Just don’t push yourself, Kitten. Too much of that and you’ll get dehydrated. We don’t want you going to the hospital.” “Dad, tell me again,” Kali drew her knees up, wrapping her arms around them. “How did you and mom settle on my name?” “Hmm, I haven’t thought about that in a long time.” Jackson stroked his chin. “When we were expecting you, your mother and I had many a discussion about what to name you. Some pretty animated discussions too. She wanted to name you after her mother, Margret. I never cared much for that name. It gave me visions of you sitting behind a library desk with your hair pulled up in a bun. I wanted to name you after my grandmother, Elise. “Right up to the time your mom went into labor, we still hadn’t agreed on a name. That night, when I drove her to the hospital, she said it felt like you were in a battle. When you were born, you came out screaming at the top of your lungs. The doctor handed you to your mother, but nothing she did would console you. She was in tears when she asked me to take you. I held you in my arms trying to comfort you and right away, you threw up the vilest mess all over me. After that, you settled right down, content as a kitten.

“Your mother and I had both been students of eastern religions in college. I majored in it and she minored. I told her how it reminded me of the legend of the goddess Kali. When Kali placed her foot on Shiva on the battlefield, it subdued her anger. It made her laugh. Well, maybe it was just the puke all over the front of my hospital gown. I handed you back to her and as she held you, looking at you with her big brown eyes, she repeated the name and she nodded. It suited you. And you’ve had problems with your temper ever since. What made you think of it?” Kali thought about what happened in the temple labyrinth and the statue of Kali. Afterward, she’d taken out four of Kaseem’s men as if it were child’s play. She felt the same when she fought the goddess of the underworld in the Stone chamber. But she couldn’t tell him any of that. “Oh, I’m just feeling sentimental about having you back after being gone so long.” “You better get some rest and we’ll talk later.” Jackson stood and left Kali to digest the events of the past few days. Kali awoke the next morning, feeling more like her old self. She touched the bump on the back of her head and noted the swelling had gone down. The morning breeze billowed the floor length sheers from the French doors leading to the balcony. She sat up in bed, took a deep breath and stretched her body, like a cat waking from a nap. Through her thick wooden door, she could smell breakfast cooking and her growling stomach told her she needed food. Kali quickly dressed and took the steps two at a time in search of food. In the kitchen, she found Bruce at the table just cleaning the last morsel of food from his plate. Her father was at the stove, cooking. He looked over his shoulder. “Good morning Kitten. You’re looking well this morning. I had a feeling the smell of food would get you out of bed. I hope you’re hungry.” He pointed to the frying pan with his spatula. “How does eggs with biscuits and sausage gravy sound? Pull up a chair, I have some sausage ready that you can start on.” Scooping some sausage onto her plate, he turned back to the stove. “While you’re eating that I’ll cook up the gravy. After what happened yesterday you must be famished.” “Thanks, Dad. I don’t know if I’ve ever been this hungry.” Kali put her face down to the plate and took a deep breath. She relished the

thought of a hearty breakfast, but only for a moment. Putting a hand to her mouth her cheeks puffed out like a bullfrog. Bruce looked up from his plate and his eyes widened. “Sis, you okay? I think you’re turning green.” Kali couldn’t see her face changing color, but her stomach churned. She let out a muffled “Humph” and her stomach heaved. Bolting from the room, her chair crashed to the floor. Kali strode back into the room. She picked up her chair and sat down again. “Sorry Dad, I’d hoped that the symptoms of this concussion were getting better. The last time this happened, little brother here brought the flu home and shared it with me.” “Ugh! Don’t remind me,” Bruce quipped. “Devon told me about yesterday. It sounds like being in the Exorcist movie the last couple of days. I thought your head might start spinning.” “Well, do you think you can handle some eggs and biscuits? Or would it be safer to just move the trash can over next to your chair?” Jackson teased. “I’ll do my best to hold it together. Just no more sausage. Hit me with what you got.” Kali poured herself a mug of coffee and sat down. She held the cup to her nose and inhaled deeply. “Mithrat andhere mam.” She took a sip and sighed. “What did you say?” Jackson turned to look at her. “Hmm?” Kali managed to mumble between sips of coffee. “You said something that sounded like Hindi.” Jackson cocked his head. “You know Hindi, Dad?” Bruce looked up from his plate. “Yeah, I learned in college. I studied eastern religion. It sounded like she said ‘sweet dark mother’. When did you learn Hindi, Kitten?” Kali’s eyes froze straight ahead. “I...I, uhm, looked up a few phrases yesterday

after our talk.” Jackson placed a plate in front of her. “That wasn’t bad. You even got the accents right. What else did you learn?” “Uhm, that’s all I can right now.” Kali took one bite and cautiously chewed, swallowed, waited a moment, and then began devouring her breakfast. “You know, that’s the term devotees use to refer to the goddess Kali.” Jackson took his apron off and walked over, kissing her on the head. “I read about that,” she managed to say between bites of food. “If you want to learn any more, I’m your guy.” Jackson pointed his thumb at his chest. “I’m glad you’re feeling better Kitten. Now, doctor’s orders are for you to take it easy for a while. Devon tells me there’s a recovery scheduled for tonight. You and Bruce will run from the van while Devon and I do the legwork. I’m going to him in the office. He’s going to bring me up to speed on the operation. You two can us as soon as you’ve finished up in here.” Jackson turned and pushed through the swinging kitchen door. “There’s a recovery tonight?” Kali asked between bites of food. “I don’t suppose it has anything to do with Desmond does it?” “What’s the problem between you two anyway?” Bruce pulled dishes out of the sink and placed them in the dishwasher. “Devon told me about the brawl yesterday. He said you threw him out of the room in his altogether. You two were cozy enough before the accident. Now it’s like you’ve turned into Mr. Hyde. And no, it has nothing at all to do with your husband.” Kali grimaced as she heard the word. Bruce shook his head. “We’ve been hired by the Field Museum to retrieve the dinosaur eggs stolen by Carter Pointe. You don’t ?” “My memories of the recent past have been a little sketchy, to say the least.” “Pointe stole a cache of Velociraptor eggs. A dozen of them, about half the size of an ostrich egg. We’ve been running surveillance on his operation for three weeks now. We received intel he’s making the sale tomorrow so we have to move tonight. I’ve put together some surveillance drones we’re going to deploy

as soon as the sun goes down. You and I are going to be the eyes and ears covering a ten-block radius around Pointe’s estate. I’m going to need your help monitoring the displays. It’ll be our job to keep Dad and Devon out of harm’s way. Think you can handle it?” Bruce asked as he rubbed her head on his way out of the room.

Chapter Nineteen: The Plan

KALI LEFT THE KITCHEN and headed to her father’s study. Walking along, deep in thought, the tingling in the back of her neck told her that someone was watching. She turned to face an empty hallway. Opening the door to the office, the monitor on the desk showed a view of her back. She spun around and there, several feet behind her hovered one of Bruce’s drones. The outer skin rendered it nearly invisible and whisper quiet with the propeller blades hidden inside the body. Kali walked toward the drone but the unit backed away. Circling around the drone, it moved with her, keeping the camera trained in her direction. “Amazing, I couldn’t even see it at first.” Kali entered the study. “How did you work out the camouflage, Bruce?” “It’s a reflective matted coating, so it blends into the surroundings. At night, it’s virtually undetectable. The only thing that might pick it up would be a motion detector.” Bruce used his remote to pilot it through the door and land it on the desk. “Each one can be piloted individually, or, for tonight’s operation, they’ve been programmed to fly to a predetermined spot and monitor a specific area.” “It’s going to work into our plan beautifully,” Her dad said. “Did you do this all by yourself?” “I came up with the design specs and I built it, but I can’t take all the credit. Alec supplied the hardware and the camouflage.” “Alec Desmond helped you on this project?” Kali asked with her nose crinkled. “Since when has he helped anyone but himself?” “Sis, I know you’ve had amnesia since your accident.” Devon shook his head. “It must be the bump you got. I don’t know where you got it into your head Alec is a bad guy. You’ve got him all wrong. Desmond Advanced Technology has been helping scientists and inventors develop their ideas for years now. If it hadn’t been for your husband, tonight’s operation wouldn’t be possible.” Kali decided she should keep her opinions to herself until she could do some more research. Tomorrow she could bring herself up to date on her so-called husband.

PETE TEMPLAR WALKED into Alec Desmond’s office on the thirtieth floor of Desmond Advanced Technologies just as his employer hung up his telephone. “Sir, the last of the drones for Hunter Recovery were tested and delivered early this morning.” “Good, thank you, Pete. Everything is up to their specifications I take it?” “Yes, sir, and the extra software you ordered works perfectly. They’ve been testing one of the newest units out at their house. We have the test flight recorded in the operations room for your viewing.” The two men walked to the hallway and entered the elevator. Desmond took a key card from his jacket and slid it into the elevator control board and a hidden slid open. He hit the button marked B2 and the car began it’s descent to the sub-basement. “So, you slept at the office last night?” Pete asked. “The Mrs. angry with you again, sir?” “I guess so, Pete, although for the life of me I don’t know what I did. It’s her fiery spirit that attracted me to her, but when she loses her temper she can clear a room.” “So, does the fiery disposition apply to the bedroom?” Pete laughed and raised an eyebrow. “I can neither confirm nor deny it, Pete. It’s for your own protection and mine. If she ever found out I discussed our sex life, I wouldn’t have a sex life. Plausible deniability, my friend, plausible deniability.” Desmond gave him a wink. The elevator doors slid open and the two men strolled down the Spartan hallway. A receptionist sitting behind a counter greeted them as she looked at her monitor. The men stepped through a metal detector and a green light indicated they carried no weapons. “Good morning, Mr. Desmond, Mr. Templar,” she said.

“Good morning, Janet. Everything quiet this morning?” Desmond asked. “Yes sir, nothing to report.” Desmond slid his key card into the slot on the wall. A light on the changed from red to green and the door slid open. The pair entered a large room where several men and women dressed in lab coats worked on various projects. They approached a bank of monitors where a short balding man with thick glasses worked. “Good morning, Mr. Sparks,” Desmond called out as he approached. “Pete tells me the Hunters have been testing one of the new drones. Pull up the recorded video for me will you?” “Certainly, Mr. Desmond.” He typed on the keyboard and the screen in front of him flickered. “It looks like the unit is working nicely.” The screen went white momentarily and an image of Jackson Hunter’s study appeared on the screen. The noise from the propellers barely made a whisper as the unit rose higher and scanned the entire room. “The drone is surveying its surroundings and putting them into its mapping program. That way, it won’t accidentally crash into something due to pilot error,” Sparks explained. The display panned over the room as Jackson, Devon, and Bruce came into view. The unit moved through the door, into the living room, foyer, and dining room. It rose almost to the ceiling when Kali ed beneath it. “It’s also programmed to avoid moving obstacles,” Sparks added. “Genius, Sparks, so no one can walk into it.” Desmond patted him on the back. They watched Kali by, and followed a few feet behind her all the way to the study. A whistle came from the back of the room and Alec turned to look behind him. “Although I’m inclined to agree with you gentlemen, I’d like to remind you the backside you’re iring belongs to my wife.” The room fell silent again. Kali opened the study door where she stopped, turned

and spotted the drone. “There’s audio available too isn’t there?” Pete asked. “Oh, sorry, yes, the unit has four microphones. It’s part of the obstacle avoidance program. It listens for sound all around it so it can move to avoid detection.” Sparks pushed a slider forward on the board and they listened in on the Hunter’s conversation. “Since when has Desmond helped anyone but himself?” Kali’s voice boomed through the speaker. Everyone in the room stopped what they were doing and looked in his direction. “Sorry Mr. Desmond, a little too much volume.” Sparks moved the slider down several notches. “Too bad sir.” Pete placed his arm on Alec’s shoulder. “Looks like you’ll be spending the night alone again.” Desmond frowned at the comment, “Now, we can control the unit independently of their controls, right?” “We can turn on the audio and video without their knowledge.” Sparks stopped the playback of the recording and switched on the real-time monitor. Kali came into view just as the family discussed their plans for the evening. “We also have zoom available,” Sparks said. He turned a knob and Kali’s cleavage filled the monitor. A low whistle came from the back of the room. Desmond reached over and moved the knob back to its original position and listened to the Hunters finalizing their plans for the evening.

“2700 POINTE LANE IN HIGHLAND Park, current residence of Carter Pointe, black market entrepreneur,” Devon said. A satellite view of the property appeared on the screen. “He avoids anything that would put him on the Feds radar, like arms and narcotics. He takes custom orders from prospective buyers, then picks and chooses the items he can deliver without arousing too much attention to himself. Just about anything is for sale including gems, endangered species, exotic cars, Cuban cigars...” “Cuban cigars you say.” Jackson’s face lit up. “You wouldn’t happen to have his phone number would you?” “I do, but his minimum price tag for any sale is one million dollars, so you’d be buying in bulk.” “I may have to find some investors.” Jackson raised his eyebrows and leaned back in his chair. “Our interest is in the Velociraptor eggs stolen from the Field Museum last month.” Devon used his remote to change the image to a cache of twelve eggs. “The police investigation couldn’t turn up any hard evidence linking Pointe to the theft. Obviously, he has an alibi for the time of the robbery. But the theft has all the trademarks of one of his operations. Black market value is in the neighborhood of twenty million. The museum is paying us a ten percent recovery fee for bringing them back undamaged.” “So where does he have the eggs stored?” Kali asked. “With the help of our new tech.” Devon pointed to the drone sitting on the desk. “We’ve been able to determine the eggs are at his residence here.” Blueprints of the estate appeared onscreen. “Many of the larger items he moves, he uses one of his three garages, all climate controlled. They can hold a total of fifteen cars, or an M60 Patton tank stolen from the Smithsonian last year.” “I thought you said he stayed away from arms deals,” Bruce leaned forward in his chair. “So what’s with the tank?” “He will deal in retired armament,” Bruce replied. “The Patton tank has long been out of service. This particular unit had the barrel welded shut. The

Smithsonian yard where they kept it is littered with obsolete war equipment. By the time they discovered the theft, Pointe already made the sale and moved it out of the country.” “If they know he did it,” Bruce asked. “Why wasn’t he arrested?” “Pointe hires professionals. There’s never enough solid evidence to tie him to the theft so they can’t get a warrant to search his premises,” Devon replied. “He’s been doing this for some time so he knows all the angles.” Devon zoomed in on the center of the house. A circular room with a large, round object sat located in the center. “This is the game room where the card table rises from the floor.” Devon pressed another button and the display switched from overhead to a side view. “Underneath is a Glasgow Presidential series safe. On this pillar nearby is a retinal scanner activating the elevator in the floor. A fifteen digit alphanumeric code opens the door. Enter the wrong code three times and steel doors come down blocking both exits to the room, sealing it.” “And thanks to our little friend here we have the code.” Bruce gestured to the drone. “What about security?” Kali asked. “Alarms, guards? I’m assuming we have Intel on codes and schedules?” “We’ve had drones doing surveillance for about a week now.” Devon cycled through the images while he spoke. “We have numbers and timetables, gate codes and door codes. There’s a guard posted outside, with his residence in the back. There are dogs they turn loose at night as well. The dogs are easy enough to take out of commission. We’ll give them ground beef with peanut-butter centers and they’ll be busy for hours. “We’re not going in through the gates. There are cameras monitoring those. We’re going over the wall. They don’t use motion sensors because the dogs would continually set them off. They use heat sensors they can configure for thermal signatures larger than canine. The heat sensors are easy enough to by. We’ll be wearing cold suits so there won’t be a heat signature to detect.

“One more thing,” Devon went to a table and picked up a pistol. “Each of us will be carrying one of these.” “Hold on there son.” Jackson held up his hand. “No deadly force. That’s the one thing that keeps us out of jail.” “This is an air gun, Dad. It fires a .22 caliber projectile at 450 feet per second.” “You’d have to be close just to break the skin.” Kali crossed her legs and drummed her fingers on the chair. “It will when the projectile is this.” Devon held up a small dart. “A tranquilizer dart filled with the venom of the puffer fish.” “Pufferfish?” Jackson asked. “Why a puffer fish?” “Tetrodotoxin,” Bruce chimed in. “Tetrowhodidwhat?” Jackson’s cocked his head. “Tetro-do-toxin. It’s a neurotoxin extracted from the Pufferfish. It’s more deadly than cyanide but used in minute doses it causes temporary paralysis.” “How long does it last?’ Kali reached for the pistol. “It wears off in about an hour. We shouldn’t need them but it never hurts to be prepared.” Devon placed the dart back into a pouch. “This should be a walk in the park. Dad and I are going in while you and Bruce run from the van. We’re going to have five drones monitoring the roads around the estate. Two are already monitoring the inside of the house. They’ve been there gathering information ever since we suspected that it was Pointe who stole the eggs. We’ll have three more outside the house tonight. One in the front and back. The third will monitor our point of entry.” “I should be running point on this.” Kali objected, “I’ve got the most experience. Dad shouldn’t be in the field. He should run with Bruce in the van.” “Oh, no you don’t!” Jackson sat on the edge of his seat. “Not in your condition young lady. With your concussion, if you get inside the game room and get a

whiff of cigar smoke and the next thing we know, you’ll spend most of your time in the bathroom. Don’t you worry, I won’t have any trouble keeping up with Devon.” “But how long has it been since you’ve done field work?” Kali asked. “Not as long as you think, Kitten. I can’t go into details because it’s classified, but let me put it this way. How do you think I could negotiate so successfully with the Iraqi? Because of all the information we were able to uncover about their operation.” Kali sat back in her chair and slumped down in a pout. She knew better than to argue with her father once he made up his mind. “Alright,” Devon said, “let’s walk this through so there won’t be any slip-ups tonight.”

Chapter Twenty: And The Other Shoe Drops

A LARGE, BOX VAN SAT parked in the Highland Park suburb of Chicago, Illinois. A sign on the side read, ‘Interstate Gas Supply of Illinois, Inc.’ A large hole in the ground had been there for two days with orange cones and caution signs surrounding it. Just to keep any casual observers away, a small canister sat inside the hole that gradually emitted the odor of a natural gas leak. Also located in the opening, a box mounted on top of a bundle of fiber optic cable with an antenna on top. Inside the back, a bank of five monitors sat on the driver’s side and another five on the enger side. The bluish glow illuminated the faces of Bruce and Kali. Both were dressed in black cargo pants, black military boots topped off by a black t-shirt covered by a vest containing multiple pockets. Outside of the open back door, Devon and Jackson finished dressing in their black suits that masked their body heat. “Deploying drones now.” Bruce flipped a switch on his console. A in the roof slid open and eight drones flew out. With little more than a whisper, they made their way to their pre-programmed destinations. “Okay, units three, four, and five are headed for the house,” Kali said in a low voice. “I’m waking units one and two. Video and audio connections are stable, we have a live feed from inside the house.” “Drones six through ten are on their way to their positions,” Bruce added. “We’ll soon have visual surveillance covering every road around the house.” “Alright kids, headset check.” Jackson put his unit on. “Everyone receiving me?” Each gave a thumbs up and busied themselves with their duties. “We’re going in.” Devon grasped the strap of the back door and pulled it down. “Let us know if you see or hear anything.” Under the cover of darkness, Devon and Jackson arrived at their point of entry near the perimeter wall and waited. Black ski-masks covered their faces. “We’re in position Kali, do we have confirmation Pointe is out of the house for the evening?” “Roger that,” Kali replied. “I just got word from my spotter at the United Center.

He and his entourage have just settled into his box for the basketball game. They’ll go out for a drink afterward so we should have at least four hours before they come back.” “We’ll be long gone if everything goes according to plan.” Bruce checked his monitors. “Drones six through ten are in position.” “By the way, who are the Bulls playing tonight?” Jackson checked his watch. “They play Miami.” Devon pulled some equipment from a black satchel. “You’re telling me the Bulls are playing the Heat and you picked tonight for this operation?” Jackson said. “That’s exactly why it has to be tonight.” Devon put his hand on his father’s shoulder. “You can relax, I’m recording the game at home.” “Alright, but nobody tells me the score until I’ve watched the game,” Jackson warned. Kali shook her head and sighed. Keeping her eyes on the bank of monitors in front of her. “I’ve located our four-legged friends and I’m delivering the package. That should put them out of commission for a while.” Three drones dropped several baseball-sized clumps of raw hamburger meat with peanut butter centers. The Dobermans sniffed at them and greedily began chewing. Devon and Jackson each took out a telescoping pole, wedged it between the ground and the wall at an angle and pressed a button at the base. Alternating bars on each side flipped out of the rods providing steps for them to scale the wall. Once astride the top, they pulled the rods up, placed them on the other side, and descended. “Kali, have you spotted any of the household staff?” Devon asked while he and his father crouched in the shadow of the wall. “Negative, drones one and two have completed a sweep of the main house, not a creature is stirring.” “Not even a mouse,” Bruce quipped.

“Good, the security guard’s quarters are behind the house. He ought to be settled in for the night,” Devon whispered. “We’re headed for the dining room door. It used to be an indoor pool until they converted it. That’s the soft spot in their security. It’s the only entrance not covered by a camera. Bruce, are you tapped into the security feed yet?” “I’m online with the alarm system.” Bruce typed on his keyboard. “Give me a minute. Okay, the alarm is off. You have a green light.” “Drones three, four, and five are in position,” Kali chimed in. “I’ve got your back.” “Roger that.” Devon checked the oversize display on his wrist. He found the alphanumeric sequence he wanted and punched the code into the keypad on the door and heard a soft click. He pushed down on the lever while giving the door a soft push and it swung open. Jackson and Devon entered the dining room and made their way through the house. Devon and his father entered and moved through the spotless, stainless and marble kitchen. “Bruce, how’s the traffic on the surrounding roads?” Devon asked. “All clear, everything is dark and quiet,” Bruce said. “Alright gentlemen,” Kali said. “After you go through the great room, you’ll be entering the game room.” Jackson watched as Devon held up a special flashlight on the column near the table. The red light flickered and turned green as the slid closed and the table began to rise. “How did you get a copy of Pointe’s retinal scan?” Jackson asked. “You know how bad crime is in the city dad,” Devon said in a mock-sympathetic tone. “It seems someone mugged Pointe in his parking garage when he left his office last week. It’s an old trick to throw talcum powder into the mark’s eyes so he doesn’t get a look at you. He had to go see the nearest eye doctor to get checked out. The ophthalmologist just happened to owe us a favor after we did a recovery for him.”

“Now that’s a shame. What’s this world coming to when a crime boss can’t walk to his car without being attacked?” Inside the darkened van, Bruce had his eyes on the monitors. He popped the top off a plastic container, pulled out a piece of meat and started munching. Kali sniffed the air. “Bruce, are you eating? What is that?” “I packed some leftovers from breakfast this morning. You know how I like an evening snack,” he said in between bites. He swung his chair around and offered a sausage to Kali. She turned her head to find the piece of meat directly in her face. Her eyes went wide. She put one hand to her mouth and used the other to rip off her headset. Kali bolted for the door, flung it upward and leaped out, running to the side of the van. The sound of retching made Bruce cringe. The sound stopped for a moment but just when he began to apologize, it started again. “What’s that sound I hear?” Jackson asked. “It’s umm, it’s Kali,” Bruce said timidly, “I was just having a snack and I offered her a bite when she turned white as a sheet and ran outside.” “Please tell me you didn’t bring any sausage with you.” “Well, yeah, there were plenty of leftovers. I didn’t want to see it go to waste so I brought it along.” “Don’t you how the sausage set her off this morning?” Jackson asked. “Where is she? Is she alright?” “Yeah, I think she’s stopped,” Bruce said. “Wait, nope, there she goes again.” “Well go and check on her will you? We need both of you watching those monitors.” “Hey, I heard the commotion, is Kali okay?” Devon asked. “I haven’t heard back from them yet, but I think she’ll be alright in a few minutes. Your brother is the smartest person I know when it comes to

technology, but when it comes to people...” Jackson shook his head. “I know what you mean. So who’s monitoring the perimeter?” “At the moment, no one, so we’d better hurry up and get those eggs and make our exit before this blows up in our face.” “It won’t be long now,” Devon said. The safe slowly rose from the floor and Devon scrolled his wrist display while the safe to locked into place...

INSIDE A SMALL COTTAGE behind the house, the night watchman reclined in his chair. He kept his eyes trained on the basketball game while he drained the last swallow of beer. Getting up to get another from his refrigerator he shouted, “Yes! Three pointer.” Opening the door, his eyes fell on the empty shelf. When the game broke for a commercial he ed the plentiful supply of beer inside the main house. The guard put on his gun-belt and flashlight and hurried out the door. The Dobermans weren’t around, he hoped they weren’t digging up the lawn again. The smacking noises of someone eating made him uneasy. He thought he’d better make sure they weren’t destroying another pool chair. Stepping in something soft he groaned and balancing himself on one foot. He turned his flashlight on and trained it on the bottom of his shoe. The guard lost his balance and hit the ground with a thud. Lying there groaning and cursing the dogs, he finally sat up, pulled his foot up, and trained his light on the sole of his shoe. “What the...” Examining the mess clinging to the tread. “Is this hamburger?” He hesitated a moment, not sure what to make of it. Moving his nose toward his foot, he caught the distinct odor of peanut butter. “Oh crap!” He pulled out his cell phone and dialed. The watchman ended the call and went to check the doors on the house. He discovered wet footprints on the walk outside the dining room door. Shining the flashlight inside, no one was in the room. He put the light back on his belt and pulled out his Glock 22. Taking a hiding place behind some bushes, he waited for the intruders to come out.

JACKSON AND DEVON FINISHED packing the eggs into two specially lined cases. When Devon closed the safe it lowered into the floor. Jackson pressed his finger to his ear. “Kali, Bruce, we’re finished in here and we’re on our way out. What’s our status out there?” After a moment of silence, he turned to Devon. “We’d better keep on our toes, there’s no response from either of them.” They headed for the exit when Jackson spotted a large, flat leather box sitting next to a couch. Unable to control himself, he opened the box and reached in. Taking out two cigars, held them to his nose and breathed deeply. “Mmm, Cubans,” he murmured. “Dad put those back!” Devon stood in the doorway pointing toward the humidor. “Only two, he won’t miss them.” Jackson stuffed them into his bag and ed Devon on his way to the dining room. “We’ve got activity outside the house.” Kali’s voice came over the system. “I don’t see anyone but drone three is reporting movement. There’s more bad news, my inside the United Center says Pointe is no longer in his box. It looks like he left.” “Bruce, are you there? What’s the perimeter look like?” Jackson eased up to the glass door and scanned the yard for movement. “I hope you’re on your way out. It looks like we’re about to have company. Hold on, drone nine is picking up a car headed this way,” Bruce said. “We’re on our way out,” Jackson said. “Have the drones go to the alternate pick up point. We’re exiting the house now.” “Hold it right there,” a voice behind Jackson shouted. “Put those bags on the ground and put your hands up.” With slow, deliberate movements, he took the straps off his shoulders and lowered them to the ground. He carefully raised his hands in the air. “I know you won’t believe this but your employer stole these dinosaur eggs from the Field

Museum. We’re just trying to return them to the rightful owner.” Devon approached the glass door and gasped when the security guard held his dad at gunpoint. Unsnapping the holster, he pulled out the air pistol, eased the door open and took aim. “Dad, Devon, what’s going on? What’s the holdup?” Kali’s voice came over the earpiece. “There’s a security guard behind me. He surprised me when I came out of the house.” “He’s down,” Devon said. “Come on, we need to hurry.” Jackson knelt by the guard and felt for a pulse. A tranquilizer dart protruded from the man’s neck. “He’s alive. Nice shooting son.” “It wasn’t me.” Devon holstered his pistol. “Just as I took aim he fell down.” “If it wasn’t you, who tranquilized him.” Jackson pointed to the dart. “Let’s not look a gift horse in the mouth. We can figure it out later. Right now we have to go.” Headlights pierced through the bars outside the fence at the end of the long driveway. The gate inched open. A large Mercedes roared up the driveway and screeched to a halt in front of the house. Four men jumped from the car. Two rushed into the house with their weapons drawn. The other two men raced around the side of the house with pistols in their hands. Their feet slipped on the dew-laden grass when they ran past hedgerows. They sprinted toward the dining room door. The lead man tripped and sailed through the air. He landed face first on the lawn. His gun went off and the bullet smashed the glass patio door. An earsplitting siren pierced the night air. He lifted his head and spit something soft and moist out of his mouth. “Shit, damned dogs” He bent over and vomited. He took out his handkerchief and wiped his mouth. “What the hell did I trip over?” “You tripped over Charlie.” The second man knelt beside the prone guard to examine him. “He said he was going to catch them coming out.”

“There’s no one here now.” He holstered his gun. He reached down and plucked a tranquilizer dart from the security guards neck, and held it up to the light. The utility van sped down the road toward the city. “We’re taking these straight to the museum,” Jackson announced. “The director is meeting us there with a security detail. They’re keeping the eggs under twenty-four-hour guard from now on.” The van pulled up to the Museum drive and a uniformed guard waved them through an iron gate. Down a ramp, an overhead door went up and the van disappeared inside. Four armed guards wearing protective vests and holding M4-A1 assault rifles and a man in a three-piece suit waited for them. “Mr, Hunter, on behalf of the Field Museum I want to thank you. You don’t know how much this means to me.” Harold Stanley had a trim physique, but his full head of silver hair and wrinkled face revealed a much older man. “Mr. Stanley, good to see you again.” Jackson shook his hand vigorously. “My family is only too happy to help. Devon, Bruce, would you unload the eggs and turn them over to the museum personnel, please?” “Mr. Hunter, if you’ll follow me, we can arrange to have your payment transferred to your bank.” Jackson followed him as Devon and Bruce carried the bags and handed them to guards. They quickly surrounded the precious cargo and walked to double steel doors, swiped a card, and disappeared inside. “You,” Kali pointed to Bruce. “Just wait ‘til I get my hands on you.” Bruce’s eyes went white, then he turned and ran. Jackson strolled back to the van where Devon leaned against it with a smirk on his face. Bruce lie face down on the garage floor with Kali sitting on his back. “Okay, okay, I’m sorry. I’ll never eat sausage again if it’ll make you happy.” Jackson stopped before opening the door. “What’s going on here? How come you’re not helping your brother?” “Ha, you want me to get in the middle of that? No, thank you. I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more. His little stunt almost blew our whole operation tonight. By the way, where do you think that tranquilizer dart came from?” “I would love to know where it came from. I want to thank them in person if I

ever find out.” Jackson opened the van door. “Kali! Will you get off your brother so we can go home?” “You’re welcome,” came a voice came from behind them. A cold chill ran through Kali when she recognized the voice. “Alec, where did you come from?” Jackson took his hand and shook it vigorously. “Good to see you, son. Are you saying it was you that fired the tranquilizer dart? We didn’t see any sign that anyone else was around. How did you manage it?” “After my guys assembled your drones they realized that there was enough room to fit a firing mechanism for the darts we made for you. But we had already delivered your drones. So earlier this afternoon we deployed the dart enabled drone outside Pointe’s estate.” Devon shook Alec’s hand. “I’m glad you did. If you hadn’t we could be either dead or in jail right now thanks to that stunt Bruce pulled. But why didn’t you tell us what you were doing?” “We didn’t have time to run tests and weren’t sure how well the system would perform. And, I didn’t want you to be overconfident thinking you had backup only to have the system fail.” “The important thing is that you saved our hides tonight.” Jackson patted Alec’s back. Alec put his arm around Devon’s shoulder. “Well, I’d never forgive myself if anything had happened to any of you.” “Kali, did you hear what Alec did? And would you please get off your brother? He said he was sorry.” Jackson pulled away to separate them. Kali slammed her mouth closed, her mind raced for something to say. Without a word, she left Bruce on the floor. Alec rushed past Jackson and wrapped his arms around Kali. “Thank god you’re alright. You are OK, aren’t you?” He held her at arm's length. Kali saw the concern etched into his face, his eyes misty. “Uh, I’m feeling a little

better, thanks. I, uhm... I mean thanks for helping Dad and Devon. I guess tonight would've been a disaster if you hadn’t helped us out.” Alec hugged her tightly. I don’t know what I’d do if anything happened to you. I should have been there in person. I don’t know what I was thinking.” “It’s OK, really. Everything worked out.” Slowly, Kali forced her hands around him, patting him on the back. “Listen, I’m still feeling a little queasy.” Alec gently grabbed her shoulders and looked into her eyes. “Is it the concussion? Are you feeling light-headed? Sick to your stomach? “Just a little, I really need to get home and get in bed.” “I’d like to drive you home. I’ve missed you so much these last couple of days. We need to talk this out. I want to make it up to you for being so insensitive after your accident.” “I think that sounds like a fantastic idea.” Jackson wrapped his arms around both of them. “The boys and I will go on ahead. You two have a nice long talk on the way to the house and work things out.” He spun on his heel and climbed into the van. Kali fought every instinct she had to jump in with them when the tail lights came on and they pulled out of the garage. Alec took a remote out of his pocket and pressed a button. Headlights blinded her for a moment and without a sound, a black Tesla slid up next to them. Pressing another button, and the door popped open. He helped her into the seat, then trotted around the other side. “You okay hun?” Alec brushed her hair away from her eyes. “You still look a little shaky.” “I’ll be alright,” Kali replied. “I just want to get home and get in bed.” Alec drove through the city and explained what happened. “I monitored your whole operation. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time you were out of the van. I had a small team of men stationed a few blocks away, just in case the drone didn’t take out the guard.” When he reached for her hand, she resisted the urge to pull it away. “You did all

that just to help my family?” “I’m not taking any chances when your safety is involved.” He kissed the back of her hand. A warm feeling spread through her chest. When Kali looked at him, she noticed the small scar on his neck. Her mind went back to the day she gave it to him, the day she and her father recovered the camera he had stolen. Without thinking she brushed the spot with her finger. She decided to test him. “Where did you get that scar?” “You don’t ? Devon told me you were having some problems with amnesia. OK, About five years I was working late one night. It was about two in the morning when someone tried to mug me in the parking garage. The guy came from behind and put a knife to my throat.” “I thought that I gave you that scar.” Kali twisted in her seat to face him. “Honey, you and I have had our share of fights since we’ve been married, but you haven’t pulled a knife on me yet.” Alec’s smile spread across his face. “So, what happened... to the mugger, I mean. How did you get away?” “I jammed my head back into his face. When he dropped the knife I threw him over my shoulder. He put a dent in my fender when he landed on it. Then something strange happened. He just sat there and cried. I pulled out my phone to call the cops but I couldn’t bring myself to dial the numbers. Turns out his wife had left him and their daughter. He didn’t have any money for food or rent. I still can’t believe I actually gave him a ride home. He lived in a real dump. I even went in and met his daughter, poor kid was only ten-years-old.” “That’s terrible. What happened to them?” “I gave him a hundred bucks, told him to put on the best clothes he had in the morning and report to my Human Resources department. He’s now the head of Custodian Services at my building.” Kali sat back speechless for several blocks until she spotted a drug store. “Pull in there.” She pointed to the sign. “I want to pick up something to settle my stomach.”

“Let me go in with you.” Alec reached for the door handle. “It’s alright, I won’t be a minute.” Kali jumped out and hustled into the store, looking for the sign for antacids. Picking out two different kinds, and heading for the , she glanced at one of the displays and breezed past it. She froze as an unexpected thought overwhelmed her. Backing up, and staring at the display, a thought struck her like a lightning bolt. “No, it can’t be,” she muttered. Picking up a box, and heading for the , she asked, “Where’s your restroom?” Kali walked out to the car like a zombie with her sack in hand and climbed into the seat, staring out the window. “You alright? What took so long?” Alec turned to make sure she wasn’t going to get sick again. “Just get me home, I’m not feeling very well.” “Next stop, Hunter manor,” Alec pointed the car toward home. Kali sat watching the city go by her window with only one thought flooding her mind. Oh my God! I’m pregnant!

Chapter Twenty-One: A Brand New Alec?

KALI SHOWERED, PUT on a t-shirt and shorts and plopped onto the bed. Instead of falling asleep, she stared at the ceiling. Exhausted, her mind raced with all of the events of the past few weeks. Her fondest wish came true, her father was back. But at what cost? Married to her nemesis, and pregnant with his child. How can I be happy and angry at the same time? This is so confusing. Her mind went back to the day she first met Alec Desmond. He had come to her rescue from a would-be rapist. The feelings he awakened in her while sitting on his couch and massaging her ankle were coming back. Kali tried to calm her mind by thinking of other things. She tried counting sheep, but after a while, the sheep had Alec Desmond’s face on them. Nothing seemed to work. Kali got out of bed and turned on her bedside lamp and in the dim light, aided by a full moon shining in the window, she stared into the full-length mirror. Pulling up her shirt and tugging down on her shorts, searching for any sign of a baby bump, there was no sign of one. Kali turned to the side, but so far, nothing. She took a small pillow from a nearby chair and tucked it under her shirt and stood back to view the results. She stuck her tummy out even more and frowned when looking down and couldn’t see her feet. I’m not sure I like this at all. “Be careful what you wish for Kali Hunter,” murmuring to her image in the mirror. “You just might get it.” She fell backward onto the bed with the pillow still under her shirt. After a moment, she pulled it out and threw it at the mirror. Kali awoke with her father’s smiling face looking down at her. “I thought you were going to sleep the day away.” He seated himself next to her on the bed. “I had trouble getting to sleep. I guess I’ve just got a lot on my mind.” “Well, Kitten, with all you’ve been through it’s to be expected.” He brushed a lock of her hair off her face and she smiled at him. She rolled over on her side and glanced over at her bedside clock. “Oh my God! Three-O-Clock in the afternoon?” “We thought that in your condition, you probably needed the rest.”

“About my condition,” Kali said. She sat up and pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around them. “Dad... I’m pregnant.” He patted her on the knee and smiled. “Devon told me when I called him from the plane. I know you and Alec weren’t planning to have children right away. However, I hoped you’d be happy about it. I’m certainly not getting any younger and I would love to have a grandchild to spoil.” “But Dad...” Kali groaned. “Listen,” Jackson said. His eyes soft and his smile, warm. “Your mother and I weren’t planning a family when she got pregnant with you. We both had our careers and thought it would be a big change to have children.” “You thought about having an abortion?” “The thought never entered our minds. We just knew it would be a major adjustment in our lives. But you know what? I’ve never regretted it for a day.” Kali reached out and squeezed her father’s hand. He always seemed to know just what to say to calm her troubled mind. “Your brothers are planning a little welcome home party for tonight. I just wanted to make sure you were feeling up to it.” “If there are no cigars and no sausage around I should be fine.” Kali rolled her eyes. “We’ll frisk everyone at the door for cigars and sausage,” he said. He pulled her hand up and kissed it softly. “But there’s something else I needed to talk to you about... Alec is coming tonight.” “Dad! I don’t know...” Kali sighed, dropping her head on her knees. “I don’t know what’s been going on between you two. Whatever it is you’ve got to work it out. Alec is a good man. Do you think I would have allowed you to marry him if I hadn’t checked him out thoroughly? Here, just look at the headline in today’s paper.” He handed her the newspaper from the foot of the

bed. Kali stared in disbelief. ‘Alan North, head of Desmond Advanced Technology microprocessor division, introduces computer super-chip.’ Below the caption, the text read, ‘The X165 chip will to revolutionize the computer industry. It will make every computer in the world obsolete. And I couldn’t have done it without the help of Alec Desmond and Desmond Advanced Technology.’ North was quoted saying at his press conference this morning. The picture on the front page showed Alan North shaking hands with Alec, everyone wore big smiles on their faces. She read on. ‘It’s the policy here at Desmond Advanced Technologies to nurture great minds like Alan North. After all, what helps Alan North helps the company, and what helps the company helps the world of technology,’ Mr. Desmond told the press. Kali put the paper down, dumbfounded. The Alec Desmond she knew, the Alec Desmond from the previous timeline, tried to steal the X165 super-chip. “I know you’ve been having some problems with your memory since your accident, so let me remind you of something.” His look firm and his voice steady. “It was Alec’s generous nature that first attracted you to him. You wouldn’t leave me alone until I introduced you two. At first, I wasn’t crazy about the age difference between you, but you wouldn’t give up. Now, Alec is coming tonight and I want you two to work out your differences in a civilized manner.” “But, Dad...” “No buts young lady, I’ve always taught you take responsibility for your actions. I know you’ve been through a lot. You’ve had to be a big sister, a babysitter, and even a surrogate mom for your brothers. When you were old enough you put your heart and soul into the family business. But your whole life we’ve all had to deal with your wicked temper. You and I have had this talk countless times. Now it’s time for you to rise above it, Kali. You couldn’t wait to marry him and now you’re carrying his child. You need to work it out. He’s a good man and he deserves a chance.” Jackson gave her hand one last squeeze. He left the paper with her and headed for the door. He hesitated before opening it. “Promise me you’re going to try,” he turned back to look at her. “Alright, alright already, I promise I’ll try.” Kali rolled her eyes.

“Oh, by the way, Alec sent you a little something.” Jackson opened the door wide. Kali’s eyes nearly popped out when large bunches of roses with feet came into the room. “Where do you want them sis?” came Devon’s voice from behind the flowers. “That’ll be fine right there.” Kali moved to the edge of the bed. She walked over and breathed the heady scent deeply, thankful it didn’t make her sick. Bruce sat another bunch down next to it. “This must’ve cost Alec a small fortune.” Bruce stood back and ired the enormous arrangements. “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Devon grabbed Bruce by the arm and pulled him out of the room. The three men left, closing the door behind them. Kali bit her bottom lip, searching for a card. Finding it, she tore it open and read it under her breath. There is so much to appreciate about my life now that you’re in it. I can’t bear the thought of being apart from you. These roses pale to your beauty, and to my love for you. You are not just part of my world. You are my world. Alec. Kali stood a moment in quiet disbelief. She plucked a red rose, put it to her nose and went to her computer. Pulling up the search field she typed in ‘Alec Desmond’ and hit enter. Since this is a new timeline, I’d better find out all about the father of my child. She clicked on link after link, story after story. Every one of them a testament to the good deeds performed by Alec Desmond. How he ed and nurtured inventors, even financing their endeavors. One story was especially interesting, about the change of heart Alec Desmond had five years ago, but it didn’t give the reason why. Five years ago, could it be? Is this one of the results of my wish on the Evolution Stone? He even saved Dad and Devon last night. A warm feeling began spreading through her chest, her old feelings began to weaken and fall away.

Chapter Twenty-Two: The Party

THE PARTY WAS UNDERWAY when Kali descended the stairs in her little black dress and three-inch heels. Jackson, in his best navy blue suit, was greeting guests while he took the occasional sip of champagne. His smile broadened when he caught sight of her at the foot of the stairs. He walked toward her with his arms open wide. They hugged briefly, and he kissed her on the forehead. Taking her hand, they walked out into the room. “You look so beautiful tonight. You remind me so much of your mother.” Kali blushed and put her head down. “Thank you, dad.” “, best behavior tonight.” He winked at her and grinned. Kali nodded her head and smiled. “Best behavior.” “Alec is already here. I’m not sure where he’s at, but he’s looking for you. You go and mingle. I’m sure you’ll bump into one another.” Jackson left Kali to greet some newcomers. She craned her neck, looking around and reached for a glass of champagne. Bringing the glass almost to her lips, she froze and then placed it on the tray of the next ing server. She searched the room, smiling and exchanging pleasantries with party-goers when she spotted Devon dancing with a woman. Her raven hair hung halfway down her back and glistened in the light when they swayed with the music. When they spun around, Melissa Sharp smiled up at him. She and Devon had dated since college. Four inches shorter than her brother, Melissa giggled at something he said and whispered something in his ear making him smile. They turned and left the room arm in arm, headed for the rear stairway. Bruce lounged in a corner looking frumpy with his unkempt hair, three days growth of beard and wrinkled suit. He squirmed and pulled at his collar. Kali smiled, Bruce was much more comfortable in his lab with his hardware and computers, not with people, and certainly not in a suit. He spoke with a man who had his back to her. Kali caught his attention with a slight wave, then he said something to the man he was talking to. When Alec turned, a large smile covered his face and his eyes widened. Dressed sharply in a pinstripe suit, he pushed his way through the

crowd toward her. A war waged between her old feelings toward Alec and all of the information she found on him a few hours ago. She ed everything she’d been reading that afternoon. The inventors he’d nurtured, the charities he ed and some he actually founded. This wasn’t the cheating, lying, swindling, Alec Desmond she knew before. He had a different personality altogether. Her wish on the Evolution Stone had changed the past, and somehow, it had changed him too. Alec put his empty glass on a ing tray and took both of his wife’s hands. She heard her father clear his throat and he raised one eyebrow, nodding at her. Kali nodded back, but when he looked away, she rolled her eyes. Alec kissed her on the cheek, and she gave him a peck in return. His eyes seemed to twinkle, like a teenager eyeing his prom date. “The only time I’ve seen you look more beautiful was on our wedding day.” Kali’s cheeks were hot. “Thank you, you look rather dashing yourself.” She ed how handsome she thought he was the first time she saw him. The ice around her heart began to thaw. Alec took her in his arms. “Please forgive me for being so crude the other morning. I was rushing you into sex to soon after your accident and I was being selfish. I’m sorry. Can you forgive me?” Kali looked into his soft brown eyes and found her feelings toward him softening. “I’m sorry too. I let my temper get the better of me. It’s just with the accident and the pregnancy and the hormones...” “You don’t need to explain yourself, just let me make it up to you. I can free up my schedule for the next couple of weeks. Why don’t we take the company jet and fly off somewhere, anywhere you want.” In the background, the phone rang and Bruce went off to answer it. He hurried over to Kali and handed the phone to her. “It’s for you, Kali. He says he’s a friend of yours, an Edmond Livingston. He said it’s important.” Kali reluctantly removed her hand off Alec’s arm and took the phone.

“Hello, Edmond... I’m sorry you’ll have to speak up. We’re having a welcome home party for Dad. “I said, I have the arrangements made for Gunter’s memorial service. I hope you and your family can attend. It’s going to be this Sunday here at my estate. Is that all right? Do you think you can make it?” “Of course we’ll be there.” Kali looked at Alec, “I’ve already arranged transportation. I can’t wait to see you again.” She handed Bruce the phone and she brushed a tear away from her cheek. This was the third time Kali lost someone important to her. The pain of losing her dad was much worse, not by much. Kali put her hand to her chest and tried to compose herself. “Gunter’s memorial service is this coming Sunday,” she said to Bruce. “I know you and Devon barely knew him and you’re not obliged to come if you don’t want to.” “Devon has some potential clients to interview and I have a new project in the bat cave. We’re probably better off staying here. You and dad knew him best. You two can go. We’ll hold down the fort.” Bruce took the phone back to the base. “We three can go.” Alec took Kali in his arms again. “I’m not letting you get away from me so easily. So, where is it we’re going?” “Dover, England. A family friend was murdered last week. He and dad knew one another from their college days. But, he didn’t have any surviving family, so a friend of mine from there has arranged a memorial service this Sunday.” “England it is. I haven’t been there in a while so it’ll be nice to see it again. We can spend some time there if you’d like.” “Sounds nice,” Kali replied. “I’d like that very much.” Music began to play softly in the background. Alec held her close and they swayed to the beat. Kali felt uncomfortable at first but eventually lost herself in the music. She put her head on his shoulder and a sigh escaped her lips. Kali took a slow, deep breath and smelled the odor of sweet spice. It reminded her of the cologne her father used to wear when she was little. The evening wore on, and the guests slowly went home. Everyone else faded away and it seemed like they were the only two people in the room.

The front door opened wide and four men walked in. Jackson froze as if he’d seen some specter. Kali happened to look his way and stopped dancing when she noticed her father’s expression. “Jackson Hunter, allow me to introduce myself. I’m Carter Pointe.” He pointed to the three men with him. “My associates here need no introduction.” They pulled out Mac-10 submachine guns from their jackets and gunfire erupted when they fired at the ceiling. “You visited my home without invitation and so here I am at your home uninvited.” Pointe drew in close to Jackson, pulling out a Glock nine-millimeter. “So Mr. Hunter, where are my eggs?” He asked between clenched teeth. Alec’s mouth fell open. “Kali, what’s wrong with your eyes? They just turned black.” She kicked off her shoes and grabbed a serving tray from a nearby waiter. She pushed it upward and sent the glasses flying. Before they hit the floor, she hurled the metal tray, Frisbee style, at the nearest gunman. The heavy tray banged into his forehead causing his weapon to fall from his hands. Kali did a roll, covering the distance between them in a heartbeat. She snatched the gun when it fell and ejected the ammo clip. Kali came up and took hold of the weapon sling. Going into a spin, hitting the second gunman on the side of the head, he collapsed to the floor, and Kali snatched his gun. The third gunman began to lower his weapon to aim it at her. In fluid motion, Kali ejected the clip, hurling it at him. The clip slammed into his nose, and he dropped his gun, grabbing his face with both hands. Blood poured from around his fingers when he went to the floor, wailing in pain. Kali snatched the weapon, ejected the clip, then turned to hurl it at Pointe. Kali froze. Pointe was hiding behind her father, his gun aimed at Jackson’s chest. “I’m impressed, Mrs. Desmond. However, I went to quite a bit of trouble to acquire those eggs for my customer. I stand to lose a good deal of money if I don’t deliver them. Now, I’m going to get my money and if not from my customer, it’s going to be from you.” A serving tray rose in the air and came down on Pointe’s head. A loud clang rang through the room, his eyes rolled back and he fell to the floor. Alec dropped the

tray on top of Pointe, then put his foot on Pointe’s hand, pulling the gun from his fingers. Kali rushed to her father and flung her arms around his neck. “Oh my God! Are you all right? He didn’t hurt you did he?” She held him at arm’s length to look at him. “Maybe I should be asking you the same question. Are you alright? How did you do that? I’ve never seen anyone move so fast.” Jackson’s eyes were wide. “I’m not sure, to tell you the truth, it just kind of happened,” Kali replied. Four crumpled bodies lay about the floor, Bruce and Devon were gawking at the aftermath. “I felt like someone, or something, took over. First, there were men shooting and next thing I knew they’re on the floor.” Pointe began to come around, groaning loudly. Alec grabbed him by the collar pulling him roughly to his feet. He pointed his own gun at him, jamming it into his ribs to make sure he knew it was there. “I want to thank you.” Alec sneered right in Pointe’s face. “Although the authorities suspected you for the theft of the dinosaur eggs they didn’t have any proof. With your ission of guilt, I think they can make a pretty good case.” Devon and Bruce gathered the weapons and trained them on the three men on the floor. Soon the police arrived and ferried the four men away. The lights of the police car shrunk down the driveway and turned onto the street. Kali closed the door, her head spinning from what just happened. Her father, Alec and her brothers busied themselves cleaning up the broken glass and bullet casings from the floor. She finally realized her left hand cradled her stomach. Kali thought about the life growing inside her and a tear slid down her cheek, wiping it away with the back of her hand she bounded up the stairs, went in her room and sat on the bed. What’s happening to me? I took out four armed men in the Temple before they could draw their weapons and now three men with sub-machine guns. Someone knocked on her door jolting her out of her reverie. Alec opened it just enough to stick his head in.

“Hey, umm, I just needed to pick up a few clothes before I head back into town. I’ll only be a couple of minutes.” “Sure, no problem.” She stood in front of the dresser feeling helpless. Earlier she’d subdued three armed men, but now she felt like a shy schoolgirl, not knowing what to say. He moved from the drawers to the closet, gathering a few things and headed toward the door. He reached for the knob when she stopped him. “Wait, don’t go,” Kali said. He dropped his clothes and rushed to her, pulling her close. Their lips met, lightly at first, barely touching. She pulled away, gasping for air. “Listen,” Alec said. “It’s too soon. I don’t want to rush you.” “No, it’s not that, well maybe. I don’t know. It’s just the last two weeks have been a whirlwind for me. My head is still swimming. I can’t sleep at night. I feel like I don’t know what’s going on around me. And then Gunter’s death...” Kali choked on her words. A single tear slid down her face and Alec reached up to brush it away. She closed her eyes and moved her cheek into his hand, moaning softly, savoring his touch. “Just tell me what I can do, anything. Tell me to go away, tell me to stay. You say it and I’ll do it.” “Hold me,” Kali said. She drew him to her body and wrapped her arms around him. Her heart was about to pound out of her chest. “I can do that.” Alec wrapped her tightly in his arms. “Anything else?” Kali rested her head on his shoulder, breathing in his scent. “Kiss me,” she whispered. He cradled her face gently in his hands. Drawing her near, electricity tingled through her every time his lips touched hers. Her heart raced and her breaths short and rapid. Kali ran her hands through his hair and pulled him into her. The tips of their tongues danced together. The smell of his cologne, the hardness of his body, his hot breath mingling with hers. The sensations combined and made her head spin. Heat built in her core and spread throughout her body. She melted into him. Kali savored his kiss, not wanting it to end.

All rational thought left her. She was tired of the confusion, tired of thinking, she needed to feel in control of something and she could control this moment. Her hands moved to his jacket and slid it over his shoulders, then she fumbled with his necktie, all the while covering his face with kisses. Alec slid her dress straps down her shoulders, then reached behind with his foot and closed the door.

Chapter Twenty-Three: The Memorial

ALEC WAS TYING HIS necktie when Kali began to stir. “Good morning sleepy-head. I’ve got a few things to finish up at the office, and then I’m going to make arrangements to fly us to England.” She sauntered toward him with nothing but the bed sheet wrapped around her. She had a playful look on her face, biting her lower lip and raising one eyebrow. “How long are you going to be?” “No longer than I absolutely have to, but we can fly out as soon as I’ve finished with my meeting.” Alec pulled his suit jacket on and turned to face her. Kali opened the sheet and wrapped it around him. Standing on her toes, she shared a long, lingering kiss. Alec finally came up for air. “This memorial service we’re going to, who is it for again?” Kali pointed to the picture of Gunter and her father standing behind her when she’d found the bronze idol. “That’s Gunter standing behind me with dad When I was ten Dad took me on a dig in Babylon..” “This is your friend who was killed? Gunter von Hausen?” Alec lifted the heavy frame from the dresser. “Yes, terrible thing. Stabbed in the back by some coward,” Kali’s eyes misted and she dabbed it away with the sheet. “You might want to start packing.” Alec grazed her lips with his. “I’ll meet you and your father at the airfield when I’ve wrapped things up.” The elevator doors at Desmond Advanced Technology slid open and Pete Templar stepped into Alec’s office. “You look happy this morning. I take it you and the missus made up?” “Indeed we did, Pete. A couple of times.” Alec winked at him. They entered the elevator and he swiped his card through the slot, punched the elevator button B3 and swiftly descended. The doors opened to the sub-basement and two marines

snapped to attention and saluted. “Good morning Captain Desmond. You seem to be in a good mood this morning.” “For the moment, everything is right with the world.” Alec returned the salute. He slid a card through the lock and placed his eye to the retinal scanner. “Is everyone assembled?” “Yes sir, your conference call is ready and your staff is waiting for you inside.” Alec and Pete entered the door before it slid closed behind them. White-coated lab techs assembled awaiting his instructions. “Ladies, gentlemen, good morning. Mr. Sparks, the chairman of the t Chiefs of Staff is expecting us, let’s not keep him waiting.” The large video screen flickered briefly, and a dour face appeared. “General Crews, good morning sir.” Alec gave a crisp salute and held it until the general returned the gesture. “Good morning Desmond. I’ve got a tight schedule so let’s dispense with the pleasantries, shall we? I’ve read your proposal on the drones. If it’s a good as you say it is, every branch of the service is going to want to get their hands on them. Not to mention our spy networks.” “With the help of Hunter Recovery, we’ve field tested several units. After examining all of the video and diagnostics, it’s our conclusion the drones performed better than we anticipated,” Alec said. “I would like to see one of these units. Do you have one you can show me?” “You’re looking at one of them now sir.” “What are you talking about?” Crews said. “I don’t see anything.” He squinted and moved his face around the screen with his eyebrows knotted. Alec held out his hand, and a drone landed on it. After it powered down, he grasped it with both hands and moved it around so the general could observe the reflective coating. “Remarkable, I would have never known it was there.”

“The reflective coating mirrors the surroundings, so it’s nearly invisible. It contains helium-filled pockets, so it has no weight, and since the motors are almost completely silent, it can move around without drawing any attention. The first units we tested were for surveillance only, but now we have units capable of firing tranquilizer darts. We have a video of a successful test. Mr. Sparks, cue the record of the Hunter recovery.” The video appeared onscreen, showing the security guard exiting his cabin. He discovered the hamburger and peanut butter bombs left for the dogs. The man dialed his phone, and a number displayed at the bottom of the screen. “You can see the unit picked up the tones he dialed. We ran the number and discovered he called his employer. The unit followed the guard around the house. Finally, he settled into a position to hide. He intended to surprise and capture two theft recovery agents when they exited the house.” They watched a set of cross-hairs appear on the screen. A projectile shot out from the drone and lodged in the guard’s neck. His hand went up to feel the source of the pain but, before he could pull it out, he collapsed to the ground. “The drones we supplied to the Hunters didn’t have this capability. This drone we deployed carries five tranquilizer darts. The new formula acts three seconds faster than the old one.” They watched Jackson and Devon leave the house, run to the wall, and disappear over the top. “Well General, what do you think?” Alec asked. The drone powered on and disappeared. “When you make your presentation before the t Chiefs in two weeks, I can guarantee you a contract. Excellent work. According to the latest intelligence reports, we have a situation brewing in the Middle East and your drones could prove invaluable. Crews out.” “Gentlemen, congratulations are in order. Of course, we’ll make sure Bruce Hunter gets credit for his contribution, but you all deserve commendation for your hard work.” Everyone in the room applauded and shook hands before they dispersed to their departments. “Say, Pete,” Alec said in a lowered voice. “I want you to pack up a couple of the new drones so I can take them with me on my trip. I’m taking my wife and

father-in-law out of the country for two weeks, and I want a chance to play with our new toy before I hand it over to the big boys in Washington. Can you get them on the company jet by this afternoon?” “No problem sir, I’ll see to it personally.”

A LONG BLACK LIMO PULLED up in front of Edmond Livingston’s house. Kali’s heart raced at the sight of him in his dark suit. He held his hand over his eyes to shield them from the bright mid-day sun. The door flew open and Kali jumped out and flung her arms around him. Edmond staggered back a step from the impact and she hugged him tightly. “Oh Edmond, it’s so good to see you again. Thank you so much for doing this for Gunter.” “Kali my dear girl, it’s wonderful to see you too. Am I correct in assuming this is your father?” Edmond said. Jackson and Alec exited the limo. Both men were dressed smartly in black suits. With the cool air conditioning of the limo left behind, sweat began to bead on their foreheads. “Edmond, I would like you to meet my father, Jackson Hunter, and my husband, Alec Desmond.” She stood to one side. Jackson stepped forward, took Edmond’s hand with both of his, and shook it firmly. “I can’t thank you enough for doing this for Gunter. He was one of my oldest and dearest friends.” “It’s my pleasure, sir. It’s so good meeting you, Mr. Ambassador.” “Oh please, no formality here, call me Jackson. What a beautiful home you have here.” He craned his neck to look the house over. “Thank you, it’s been in my family for some time now. My great-grandfather built it. My pension from the RAF helps me maintain it.” Looking past Jackson, he greeted Alec with a broad smile. “So you’re the man who’s been able to tame this young wildcat,” Edmond said. He shook Alec’s hand vigorously. “You give me too much credit Mr. Livingston.” Alec returned the smile and handshake. “Tamed isn’t a word I could truthfully use. Married, yes, but we seem to get along.” “And congratulations are in order I understand,” Edmond put his arm around

Kali’s waist. I hear you’re going to be parents.” “Yes.” Jackson’s smile spread from ear to ear. “It looks like I’m going to have a grandchild to spoil after all.” “You can fill me in on all the details later.” Edmond motioned with his arm. “Come around to the back of the house. The minister is already here, and we’re ready to begin the service.” Jackson and Edmond lead the way to the backyard while Alec took Kali’s arm. “Charming old fellow isn’t he?” Alec asked. “How is it you know him?” “Dad and Gunter had been friends ever since I can . Edmond was friends with Gunter because he’s an amateur collector of antiquities and he’d often done business with him.” “I get that connection, but you leapt from the car before we came to a full stop and told him it was ‘so good to see you again.’ So when did you and Edmond meet?” They rounded the rear of the house, and Edmond called Kali over to meet the minister. “It’s a long story. I’ll tell you all about it later.” Kali gave him a peck on the cheek and hurried away to speak with the clergyman. After the service concluded and the reverend took his leave, the four of them stood together, looking at the memorial garden Edmond had set up for Gunter. A large stone, four foot tall and six foot wide, had Gunter’s name emblazoned across the top along with his date of birth and date of death. Below it, an inscription of all of the degrees he held, along with a brief history of his life. A picture of Gunter from his younger days dominated the marker. He wore field gear and held a pick-ax, flashing a broad smile. A semi-circular hedge of roses surrounded the monument. In the center of the garden stood the urn containing Gunter’s ashes. In front of the urn, a flame burned in his memory. Flagstones arranged in rays emanated from the center. Kali put her arm around Edmond and examined every detail of the memorial. “It’s beautiful, he was so underappreciated by his colleagues. You did such a

nice job on his behalf. Are those stones what I think they are?” Kali’s heart skipped a beat at the realization. “Thank you, Kali, it was really no trouble, and yes, those are the Chronicle of...” Kali put a finger to his lips. “Those are some interesting flagstones you’ve used there Edmond,” Jackson knelt down to examine them more closely. “They look very old. Where did they come from?” “Ah, you have a keen eye, there’s a fascinating story behind those stones. They came from an old house in the French countryside that reportedly once belonged to Napoleon.” “You mean The Napoleon? Short guy? Emperor of ?” Alec asked. His eyes narrowed and his lips twisted to one side. “One and the same,” Edmond replied. “Interesting anecdote regarding his height. The French inch was much longer than the English measurement. Although history reports him as five-foot-two, in truth, he was actually five-foot-seven. Anyway, the new owner of the house wanted the grounds completely redone and decided to discard the stones. The groundskeeper was loading them on his truck when he decided to attempt to sell them. He had taken them to the nearest museum, but they weren’t interested. I happened to be visiting the place and overheard the conversation. I followed the young man outside and struck a bargain with him. I’m a bit of an amateur collector myself. I brought them home and called Gunter. He got so excited he flew right over to examine them.” “Wait a minute,” Jackson broke in. “Would this have any connection with the artifact Gunter spent most of his life chasing after? What was the relic he always wanted to find, Kali?” Kali looked at Edmond and then at Jackson not sure what to say. “The Evolution Stone!” Jackson’s eyes widened. “He spent most of his life and his family fortune looking for it. Do you , Kali, when you were ten we went to Gunter on a dig at Babylon?” “Yes, I it vividly,” Kali replied cautiously since she wasn’t sure she liked where this conversation was headed.

“We uncovered a lot of nice artifacts. Kali even discovered a bronze idol of this Babylonian goddess with three heads. It had a really unusual name.” “Labartu, Labasu and Akhkhasu, goddess of the underworld.” She couldn’t look at him. “Yes, anyway, after a cursory examination, Gunter dismissed practically everything we found. Said he was looking for the Chronicles of Nebuchadnezzar. He even gave the idol to Kali. At the time there were no international laws regarding removing artifacts from archaeological sites. We still have it at home in my study.” “Actually dad, I brought it with us. I wanted to leave it here for Gunter’s memorial.” “That’s a very nice gesture Kitten. To tell you the truth that thing always gave me the creeps.” While he spoke, Jackson pulled the nearest stone up by one edge. “There’s some writing on the underside.” He showed it to the others. “My early Chaldean is a bit rusty, but I’m positive this says Nabopolassar. And look, here is Nabukudur-utser.” Jackson’s mouth dropped open. “That was Nebuchadnezzar’s Chaldean name. So, Gunter was really onto something here. Edmond, Did Gunter translate the text on these? I’d like to see the translation.” Edmond’s mouth opened, but no words came out. He looked blankly at Kali. She stared back with no answer when Alec broke the silence. “I hearing something about this Evolution Stone when I was a kid. What’s it all about?” Alec knelt to examine the underside of the stone. “Millennia ago,” Jackson began, “some believed it to be a huge asteroid that struck the earth.” “Isn’t it supposed to have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs?” Alec interjected. “Right,” Jackson said. “But for something that large, that would have caused catastrophic damage, they’ve never been able to find it. Some believe it struck on the site of the Garden of Eden. No one can say for sure, because nobody knows exactly where the garden was located. Many believe it was in Iraq, near

the old location of the Euphrates river. Some told stories this asteroid wasn’t just any rock from space, but it had powers.” “What kind of powers?” Alec asked. “The legend says if you found it, you could make a wish on it, and it would grant your wish by changing the past. That’s why it’s called the Evolution Stone. The broadest definition of evolution is ‘change’.” “Sounds like a fairy tale to me,” Alec said. He gave the tablets a cursory examination before looking back to Jackson. “Pretty much everyone else does too,” Jackson replied. “But Gunter believed in it strongly enough, he spent most of his life trying to find it. It looks like it eventually cost him his life. Edmond, where are Gunter’s notes of this text?” “I...I...I wanted to put it into a capsule and bury it under one of the flagstones, but the company hasn’t gotten the thing shipped to me yet. To tell you the truth, Jackson, I’ve been so busy organizing Gunter’s memorial, I can’t recall where it is at the moment.” “Come now, an old military man like you? Disorganized?” He put his arm around Edmond’s shoulder, leading him toward the house. “Let’s go and look for it, shall we. I’ve got to see this for myself.” Kali cringed, knowing what was coming. Her father would read the translation and demand to know the whole story. She started to follow and try to distract them but Alec stopped her. “You don’t believe all this do you?” “As a matter of fact, yes, I do.” Kali grabbed his arm. They turned toward the house while the sun sank from the sky behind them. Alec went through the French doors and Kali stopped to ire Gunter’s memorial with a beautiful sunset behind it. She smiled to herself when she ed her old friend fondly for a moment and then ed the others inside. Jackson seated himself at the desk and picked up a worn notebook. “This looks like Gunter’s handwriting. I’d recognize his scrawl anywhere.” He flipped through the pages. “Jackson, I must protest. Those are Gunter’s private notes. I’m not at all sure it’s

proper to be reading them,” Edmond’s hands were on his hips. “Nonsense. Gunter was a good friend and if this is what got him killed then I need to know why. So, I’m going to have to insist.” Edmond sighed and turned when Kali and Alec entered the room. “This is amazing.” Jackson looked up from his reading. “According to Gunter’s notes, Nebuchadnezzar wrote this himself. History tells that his father, Nabopolassar, was king of Babylon and when he died, Nebuchadnezzar took the throne. The Chronicle tells that he and his family were nomadic sheep herders before he stumbled upon the Evolution Stone.” He put his head down and began reading again. “You kids should go and get some rest,” he said without looking up. “I’m going to stay with this awhile.” Kali started to object, but Alec put his finger to her lips and ushered her out of the room. “Let’s leave him alone with that. I’m thirsty and I’d love a drink.” Alec held her arm and pulled her along after him. Kali rolled her eyes. A knot formed in her stomach. She knew she’d eventually have to explain everything to her father. “So you and your father are buying into this magic and mysticism business?” Alec objected. “I don’t want to insult you two. I have all the respect in the world for your dad. But isn’t this just a little bit kooky? This sounds like it’s straight out of the Arabian Knights.” “You look like a man who could use a drink,” Edmond stepped behind the bar. “I know I could use one. What would you like Alec?” “A scotch rocks sounds pretty good about now.” “Ice water with a twist of lemon, thank you,” Kali said. Edmond put the glass on the bar. Alec snatched it up and drained it. He put it down and looked at Edmond, tapping on the rim. Without asking, he poured

another drink and it went down in the same fashion. “So, Edmond, are you buying into all this? This, rub a magic lamp and get three wishes stuff?” Kali sat on the arm of an overstuffed chair, sipped her water and listened, not sure if she wanted to in. “I just want you to consider something for a moment Alec,” Edmond said. “In sixteen-hundred and sixteen, the Catholic Church pronounced Galileo a heretic for teaching that the earth revolved around the sun. Three hundred years ago you would have been pronounced a witch and burned at the stake for using the cell phone in your pocket. Just because something doesn’t conform to the current thinking we believe to be rational and logical, doesn’t mean it’s not true.” “I’m going to need one more before I can even begin to digest all this.” Alec placed his empty glass on the bar and Edmond poured him another drink. This time, instead of swiftly downing it, he picked it up, went to the chair where Kali sat on the arm, and plopped down. He sipped his drink slowly and went quiet for a long moment. “Alec,” Kali said with some trepidation. “Thanks to my father’s dogged determination, the truth is going to come out sooner rather than later. So, let me tell you a story.”

Chapter Twenty-Four: The Butterfly Effect

KALI AWOKE ON THE COUCH to the sun peeking over the horizon. She listened while Edmond and Alec talked quietly at the bar when Jackson threw the door open and came striding into the room. “Edmond, Alec,” Jackson said. In spite of not getting any sleep, his eyes were bright and it was obvious he had difficulty containing his enthusiasm. “Gunter searched his whole life for the Evolution Stone and it looks like he was finally on the right track.” Not wanting to jump into the conversation, Kali thought it best to pretend to be sleeping and see what direction the conversation took. “He wasn’t just on the right track,” Alec slurred then took another sip of scotch. “If what these two tell me has any truth at all in it, and I’m not saying I’m convinced, mind you, it sounds like they found it.” “They?” Jackson’s forehead crinkled and his eyes narrowed. “They who?” “We did,” Edmond said. “You and Gunter?” Jackson asked, more puzzled than ever. “No, Gunter, Kali and I.” Edmond paused to let the news sink in. “My daughter? The three of you found the Evolution Stone? Did one of you make a wish?” Edmond nodded in Kali’s direction. “She did.” “What did she wish for?” “The thing she wanted most in all the world. She wanted you,” Edmond looked Jackson squarely in the eye. “Me? What do you mean? She’s always had me. I know I was gone for a year negotiating a treaty with Iraq, but I called home every chance I could.” “I know it’s confusing. If I hadn’t experienced it firsthand, I would think it was a crazy story myself. According to Kali, around five years ago, you were on your way to Iraq with the ambassador when your plane crashed. But, Kali never gave

up hope. I think that’s why she believed so much in Gunter’s quest. It’s the only way she could get you back.” “Five years ago I received an invitation from the ambassador. He wanted me to accompany him and assist in opening dialog with the Iraqi government,” Jackson said. “I was supposed to fly to Washington and then fly with him to Iraq. At the last minute a storm blew in and my flight was canceled. It’s a good thing too because their plane crashed with no survivors.” “So Kali’s wish brought on that storm,” Edmond stated. “Now that I think about it, it was a freak storm. The weather called for clear skies and it seemed to come out of nowhere.” “Odd.” Alec raised an eyebrow. “That’s about the time I was on the company jet and we were flying through a nasty storm. Lightning struck one of the engines and it caught fire. I really thought I was going to die. At the time, it occurred to me I deserved to die because of all the terrible things I’d done. I made up my mind I had to change my life. Somehow, miraculously, we managed to land safely. Since that storm, I’ve tried my best to help people.” “That’s either a big coincidence or you were both affected by Kali’s wish.” Edmond reasoned. “It doesn’t sound right Edmond,” Alec responded. “Her wish was for her father. How could it have affected me?” “I may be able to answer that Alec,” Jackson chimed in. “Have you ever heard of the Butterfly Effect?” “Yeah, it seems like I heard it in a couple of different movies. ‘A butterfly flaps its wings in China and it rains in New York.’ But what does it have to do with my experience?” “Have you ever thrown a rock into a pond?” Jackson asked. “Sure, what kid hasn’t?” “When the rock hits the water, ripples go out in every direction,” Jackson reasoned. “If it is indeed possible to change the timeline, the changes it makes

would be like those ripples, it could affect hundreds, even thousands of things. And it would be completely unpredictable. There could be big changes and there could be many small, barely noticeable changes.” “Jackson, are you saying you believe all of this?” Alec raised an eyebrow. “Right now, I’m not sure what to believe. It’s a lot to take in. What I do know is there are a number of stone tablets out there. They’re thousands of years old with ancient writing on them. Those are real. And a dear friend of mine believed in it so strongly he devoted his life to it.” “Yes, and it cost him his life.” “It did, but how many men and women have given their lives for a cause. It doesn’t make them wrong. I knew Gunter for a long time. Even though he received a lot of criticism for his beliefs, I’ve always known him to be a reasonable, rational man. While I can’t say Gunter and I always saw eye to eye, I’ve always tried to keep an open mind. History is full of examples where the few have been in the right and the majority in the wrong. “Legend is often based on fact. Greek legends tell of Perseus and Hercules, demi-gods born from human women and spawned from gods. It goes back to the Bible story in Genesis when angels came to earth and materialized human bodies in order to have relations with the daughters of men. The Bible says their offspring were the Nephilim, translated ‘fellers’. They were bullies and tyrants with superhuman strength. “Consider the tales of dragons. Everyone thinks they’re a complete myth. Those stories no doubt came from men finding the fossils of dinosaurs.” “So if I understand this correctly,” Alec said. He began pacing across the room. “This Evolution Stone is like Aladdin’s magic lamp. You rub it and you get your wish.” “No, not at all. The Evolution Stone doesn’t just give someone their wish. It grants a person’s wish by changing the past,” Jackson explained. “It creates an entirely new timeline. If someone, say, wishes for millions of dollars and it suddenly appears. Eventually, someone in a suit shows up at your door and starts asking all kinds of questions. But if you change the past, the circumstances occur naturally where you either earn or inherit the money.”

“I won’t pretend to know anything about the paradox of changing the timeline,” Edmond said. “But, apparently, Kali and I are the only ones with memories of the previous timeline. On the other hand, we have no memories of the timeline we’re currently in.” “It’s because the two of you were inside the chamber of the Stone,” Jackson said. He turned to look at Kali. She propped herself up on one elbow and her eyes focused. “I fell asleep, what did I miss?” “Apparently, I’m the one who’s missing something,” Alec said. He emptied his glass of scotch and put it down on the coffee table. “Or maybe I’m the only one who isn’t missing something.” He moved his index finger around his ear in a circular motion. “I need to sleep on this. Edmond, point me toward a bedroom if you don’t mind,” he said with a slight slur in his speech. “Up the stairs, third door on the right. The bathroom is the second door in case you need it.” Edmond pointed him toward the stairway. The trio watched Alec climb up the stairs on wobbly legs. He opened the second door and walked in. Seconds later, he came back out and entered the third door. A few moments later, he came back out and re-entered the bathroom. Minutes ticked by while they watched in silence and finally heard the toilet flush. Alec came back out, went back into the bedroom, and closed the door behind him. “How many did he have, Edmond?” Kali rubbed her eyes. “I lost track somewhere after a dozen,” Edmond replied. “I stopped counting around two in the morning. Now, who’s ready for breakfast?” He asked, rubbing his hands together. “Just some toast and coffee for me Edmond. I’m going to go over Gunter’s translation again,” Jackson said. He headed back into the study. “Kali, how about you?” “Edmond, I’m famished,” Kali said. She took his arm and headed for the kitchen. “How about one of everything? But, no sausage!”

KALI ENTERED THE BEDROOM and smiled when Alec awoke and rolled onto his back to stare at the ceiling. “Good afternoon sleepy-head. Are you hungry?” “Good grief,” Alec said. He groaned and held his hands to his head. “Do you have to shout? Is it just me or is this room spinning?” Kali plopped down onto the bed beside him and whispered in his ear. “I wasn’t shouting and yes, it’s just you. You drank nearly an entire bottle of scotch, what do you expect?” “Was that an earthquake or the bed shaking?” “Hey, watch it, mister. Are you getting out of bed sometime today? “Why are you still shouting?” He moaned and put his pillow over his head. Kali pulled the pillow down and kissed him gently on the forehead. She rolled off the bed and walked to the door. “Get yourself cleaned up and dressed,” She said in a cheerful voice. “Edmond is grilling steaks for dinner and we’ve got a lot to talk about.” Before Kali closed the door, Alec pulled a pillow back over his head to muffle the sound. A lively discussion filled the dining room when Alec ed them at the table. Edmond placed a serving tray full of sizzling steaks in the middle of the table. “Ah, Alec, please us. Help yourself. We were just regaling Jackson here with the story of our adventure,” Edmond took his seat and placed a steak on his plate. Alec sat in the chair next to Kali and began filling his plate with various items. He listened intently while Kali and Edmond each added details of what took place in Nebuchadnezzar’s tomb. “Fascinating, just fascinating,” Jackson said. “I think if there’s a shred of truth to it, it’s the most frightening thing I’ve ever heard in my life,” Alec said. “Can you imagine? What if some power crazed dictator could get his hands on a relic that can change history? What would an ego-maniac do if they had access to a power like the Evolution Stone?”

“According to the legend, a few men have. Nebuchadnezzar was the first that we know of,” Jackson said. “Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and Napoleon were also supposed to have used the Stone. All of them were leaders of world powers of their day. And they had invincible armies that were often outnumbered.” Jackson’s phone buzzed breaking the silence. When he saw the display, he excused himself and walked away. After a lengthy conversation in hushed tones, he came back to the table with his lips set thin and his head down. “I’m afraid I have bad news, our satellites have picked up some unusual activity inside Iraq. It looks like they might be in violation of the treaty. A man we have on the inside gave us intel about a secret lab attempting to enrich plutonium. He should have reported in an hour ago but they’ve lost with him. It could be something came up and he’s just late, but they’re not optimistic. Unofficially, they feel the treaty we negotiated with Iraq was just a ruse. They used it to buy time for them to finish what they’d already begun. I’m waiting for a call to see if they decide whether they’re sending me back to Iraq.” “We can use my jet to fly you there Jackson,” Alec pushed his plate away. “Thank you, Alec, I hated to ask you, but it would save me a lot of time. If you’ll excuse me, I need to make some phone calls. Edmond, may I use your study?” “Please do, anything at all you need is yours.” “If you would excuse me,” Alec said. He stood from the table and pulled out his phone. “I need to make some calls of my own.” “You go right ahead,” Edmond said. “I can entertain this beautiful young woman. Kali, you’re welcome to stay here.” Edmond stood, took her hand and led her to the living room. “Thanks, Edmond, it’s very thoughtful of you. But if my father thinks I’m letting him out of my sight again he can just forget it. I didn’t go through all of that just to lose him again.” “Now Kali, you don’t know you’ll lose him. He has a job to do and a lot of people’s lives depend on him doing it.”

“I lost him once, I won’t let it happen again.” “But Kali, it’s not your place. Your father would never stand for it. How could you help him?” “I don’t know, Edmond, I just know I have to try.” “You’re an amazing young woman. If anyone can do it, it’s you.” “Edmond, there’s something I’ve needed to talk about. Something’s happening to me. You saw what happened in the preparation room with Kaseem and his men. I took out four men in a matter of seconds.” “I . You moved so fast. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone move like that.” “But I’m not sure it was me. I felt like I wasn’t in control of my own body. I knew everything that happened around me, but it was like someone or something controlled me. The same thing happened in the stone chamber when I fought the idol. And it happened again the night you called. Four armed men barged into our house during the party. I disabled three of them before they could even react and I can’t explain it.” “Kali, there’s the matter of what happened to you in the labyrinth. Gunter and I found you in the room with the statue of Kali. You ?” “I I went in there to look around and you snuck in and startled me.” “Not too surprising, the whole place gave me the willies. But, when Gunter and I found you, you were frozen, staring into the eyes of the statue. It was like you were in a trance.” “Edmond, I swear, I thought it was just a matter of seconds. I do know ever since then, I seem to have this...I guess you could call it an ability.” Edmond went quiet for a moment. He walked over to the bar and poured himself a glass of wine and got Kali some ice water. They both sat in silence sipping their drinks when Edmond finally spoke. “I don’t know, after seeing the things we have, I suppose anything is possible. I’ve read articles about women who lifted a car when a loved one was trapped beneath it. Under extreme situations,

people are capable of extreme acts.” “I’ve had a thought lurking in the back of my mind lately and it scares me.” “My dear, we survived a plane crash, death-defying traps in a tomb, a giant crocodile, and a stone statue came to life and tried to kill you. Through all of it, you never seemed unnerved at all.” “To tell you the truth Edmond, all of it frightened me, I just never let on. All my life, I’ve learned to put my personal feelings aside. My mother died when my brothers were born. I grew up fast because my father needed help raising them. When we went to school, anytime someone picked on the boys, I stepped in to protect them.” Kali took a long sip from her glass, then took a deep breath. “When dad’s plane crashed, I felt like my whole world came crashing down around me.” Kali put her head in her hands. “But the world doesn’t stop turning to wait for you to catch up. Someone had to take over the family business. Somehow, I had to rise above it all and carry on.” Kali lifter her head to look at Edmond. “But it’s the unknown I’m afraid of. You heard me mention my father named me after the goddess Kali.” “Yes, but I didn’t think much of it at the time.” “What do you know about her?” “I know she’s a Hindu goddess. She’s been depicted like a bloodthirsty demon in some movies.” Edmond crinkled his nose. “The statue we saw looked beautiful and grotesque at the same time.” “She’s actually the gentle mother goddess but she’s also a fierce warrior.” “Now wait a minute, are you thinking somehow you’re being controlled by the goddess Kali?” “I don’t know Edmond.” Kali stared at the ice in her glass as if it held the answers to her questions. “It’s all been so confusing since the Stone chamber. I’m glad I have my father back. When he showed up at home, I was so happy I felt like my heart might explode.” She put her hand to her chest. “I wish I could

have bottled the moment so I could keep it forever. Then I find out I’m married and pregnant! I just don’t know what to think.” She leaned her head on Edmond’s shoulder. “Kali, we’ve seen some pretty bizarre things. I don’t know if you’re being controlled by some Hindu goddess, but I do know I think you’ll make a wonderful mother,” Edmond said. He squeezed her hand gently. “I dare say you’ve taken on a glow since I saw you last.” “Thank you, Edmond.” She patted his arm. “Sometimes, it’s best not to question when good things happen.” Edmond stood. “Now my dear, if I could ask your assistance in clearing the table, then I’m off to bed. The cleaning woman will be coming in the morning to tidy up.” Kali awoke the next morning and pondered how long she could stay in bed. Why is it that the bed is always the most comfortable when it’s ‘time to get up. The other side of the bed where Alec slept was cold. She listened but the house was quiet. After a hot shower, she dressed and headed down the stairs in search of breakfast. She descended and followed the voices to the kitchen. The scent of food made her mouth water and she spied a table full of breakfast items. Kali kissed her father on top of his head, then went up to Alec, grabbed his face and kissed him full on his lips. “Good morning gentlemen.” Kali dished food onto her plate. “All this wonderful food on the table and no one woke me?” She raised an eyebrow. “Morning Kitten, I knew with food on the table you’d find your way down here soon enough.” Her father wiped his mouth. Jackson and Alec were finished eating and cleared a spot for a map they were studying. Edmond carried dishes to the sink. “Good morning Kali, I trust you slept well,” Edmond said in a cheery voice. “As a matter of fact, I did. I’m just not sure if my father or my husband got any sleep at all.” She motioned to them with her fork. “I got a few hours shuteye. You know I don’t require a lot of sleep. Besides,

there’s a lot for us to do today. I’ve been ordered to Baghdad to reopen negotiations with the Iraqi government.” “And I’m going with you,” Kali said emphatically. “Out of the question,” Alec objected. He put his fork down and gave her a stern look. “I’m not in favor of the idea either Alec, but, if she stays at the embassy and behaves herself,” Jackson said. He shot her a look over his glasses, “I suppose it would be alright. In fact, you can both stay there. You can spend some time together. That was your original intent when we came here. Besides, Baghdad is a beautiful city full of history.” “Then it’s settled,” Kali said. “I just need to do a little shopping first. When do we leave?” Alec rolled up the map. “I just have to alert the pilots to have the jet fueled and ready to go. So don’t take too long shopping or we’ll leave you behind.” Alec kissed her on the forehead when he walked by her. “Didn’t you pack quite a few clothes already?” Jackson asked. “I didn’t know we were going to Iraq, there are just a few things I need.” Kali drove down the street, ing clothing stores and boutiques, not seeing what she was looking for. She pulled over to the curb and did a search on her phone. When the results displayed, Kali roared off for a few blocks more before turning a corner. The store she wanted came into view and parked. Locking the car, Kali walked into the Army Surplus Store and felt right at home. Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. “Ah, I love the smell of leather and gun oil.” Spotting the rack of swords, Kali headed straight for the salesman.

ALEC PUT HIS PHONE back into his pocket after a frustrating conversation with his pilot. “Well it’s not good news,” He said with a sigh. “Is there a problem with the plane Alec?” Jackson asked. “Not the plane, the pilots. It seems both of them had a craving for sushi. They must have gotten a bad restaurant because both of them are in the hospital with food poisoning.” “Can we find someone else? We won’t be able to delay our trip.” “I can fly the plane, I just need a co-pilot.” Alec ran his hands through his hair out of frustration. “You needn’t look any further.” Edmond walked into the room. “I wasn’t meaning to eavesdrop, but I’ve flown just about everything in the R.A.F. from propeller to jet. I can surely fly the little number you came in on.” “I’d hate to ask you to do it, Edmond,” Jackson said. “We have no idea what we’re getting into or how long we’ll be gone.” “You didn’t ask, I volunteered. Besides, I would just be sitting around the house anyway. I’m up for a little adventure. I’ll go upstairs and throw a few things into a bag. We can leave when Kali returns.” “Then we can leave anytime.” Kali strolled into the study. “I’ve left my things in the car. When you gentlemen are packed we can leave for the airport.” She perched herself on the arm of the chair where Alec sat. He leaned his head back to greet her and she kissed him. “So, did you buy the store out?” Alec asked. “Don’t you have enough clothes at home?” “Oh, just a few things I thought I would need for the trip. I didn’t bring anything for the hot and arid climate in Iraq. Besides, you know how I like to be prepared for anything.” Kali winked. “I’m not sure I want to know.” Alec rose from his chair. “I don’t have much to

pack. We can be on our way within the hour. I’ve got a couple more calls to make anyway.” He headed for the stairs.

Chapter Twenty-Five: Back to Iraq

“BAGHDAD IS A BEAUTIFUL city, You’re going to love it.” Jackson sat at the small table across from Kali and took a sip from his bottle of water. Alec came from the cockpit and ed them. “We’re on course for Iraq. Edmond is keeping an eye on things up there. Any news Jackson?” “I just got word from the State Department on what our objective is.” “I had a feeling we might be hearing from them.” Alec sat between Jackson and Kali. “I have some s in the bureau that have ed some intel along. Our satellites have spotted what they’re pretty sure are mobile launching platforms, a half dozen of them.” Jackson raised an eyebrow. “The Iraqi wouldn’t be able to get their hands on that much plutonium. Even if they did, they wouldn’t be able to construct a missile to reach any further than their immediate neighbors. If they convert their stock of Scud missiles and put nuclear warheads in them, the after-effects of radiation and fallout would harm their own people.” “So, you’re saying the mobile missile launchers are a ruse?” Kali asked. “It would be just like them to pull a stunt like that. Like a boy finding his father’s gun, he would hide it so he wouldn’t get it taken away before he has a chance to use it. They would be able to construct one, two missiles at best. They might be able to reach Europe or perhaps Asia. They would feel the threat of a possible attack would give them the advantage they’ve always been wanting.” “So we need to be searching for something that doesn’t look like a mobile launching platform,” Alec said. “It would be our best bet,” Jackson replied. “Officially, I’m supposed to keep them distracted with negotiations, draw them out. While I’m keeping them busy, our satellites, along with some undercover operatives, are going to try to find the most likely places for a launching platform.” “It won’t be easy. I’m sure it’s going to be well hidden. You know who would be our best source of intel?” Alec asked.

“I know someone I can call who would be our best source,” Jackson said. “She’s helped me out a lot. She certainly has no love for the current regime.” “You wouldn’t be talking about Valarius would you?” Alec inquired. “Yes, as a matter of fact, I am.” “Valarius? Who’s Valarius?” Kali asked. “I’ve never heard you mention her name before.” “She’s a local trader,” Jackson replied. “She moves from town to town bartering for goods. She keeps her eyes and ears open. She’s a wealth of information. She’s also helped us smuggle items and people in and out of the country.” “Very impressive,” Kali remarked. “To do all that in such an archaic society so predominately male.” “True,” Alec chimed in. “Valarius has even done some wet work for the agency.” “And by wet work you mean...?” Kali inquired. “It means she’s made some people disappear,” Alec replied. “When your people are hunted to near extermination by the government, you’re usually happy to dish out some payback whenever you can.” “Alec, do you have the map of Iraq handy?” Jackson asked. “Got it right here.” He reached for his flight bag. Spreading it out on the small table, the edges of the map drooped over the sides. Jackson and Alec hunched over the map with Kali looking over her father’s shoulder. Jackson leaned over the map “Did your source give you an idea of where those mobile launching platforms were located?” “Yes, they did.” Alec ran his finger over the map until he found what he was looking for. “There’s one just outside Al Mawsil in the north. Two more are in the east in Kirkuk. Another one in Qasr Amij in the west. The last two are in AsSalman.” “He’s certainly gotten them scattered to the four winds doesn’t he?” Kali

remarked. “He’s not as smart as he thinks he is,” Jackson remarked. “But, he’s certainly not stupid. He’s keeping them far away from Baghdad in case someone gets the idea to take them out. If someone hits one or more of the decoys, he can launch the real thing. “So, how do we find them?” Kali inquired. “There is no we, my dear,” Alec cocked his head and raised an eyebrow. “You know far too much now.” Kali sat back in her seat folded her arms and narrowed her eyes at him. “Valarius would know where they are.” Jackson reclined back in his chair. “Wherever they are,” Alec remarked, “You can bet they’ll have them in separate places.” “I would say it’s a sure bet,” Jackson replied. “If they’re disguised, how is he doing it?” Alec asked. “My best guess is they would use oil platforms,” Jackson responded. “Oil rigs are scattered throughout the southern end of the country. You go south of Al Hillah and they’re everywhere. It’s why the Iraqis wanted Kuwait so badly. The further south of Baghdad you go, the richer the oil fields are.” “Isn’t it going to be like looking for a needle in a haystack?” Alec asked. “Not necessarily,” Jackson answered. “You can bet the ones we’re looking for will have lots of security around them. That will make them stick out like a pimple on a nose.” “And just what does the State Department propose to do once the missiles are located?” Jackson rubbed his chin. “So far they’ve been mute on the point. I’ve asked and gotten political double-speak for a reply. However, once we know the exact location, it’s going to take a lot of restraint to keep the war hawks at the

Pentagon from trying to blow them to kingdom come. If they guess wrong it’s going to be the beginning of world war three.” Alec’s eyebrows raised and he rubbed his temple. “You might just be right, Jackson. Most of the hard-line Arabic states will side with the embattled Iraqis. Forget the fact that most of the time they squabble among themselves, it’ll turn into the crusades all over again with Christian vs Muslims.” Jackson thought for a moment. “A much better idea would be to send in a small undercover contingent. They could make their way in and disable the missiles, maybe even enter alternate coordinates so the missiles come down in international waters. When we know where they’re coming down, we can have a battle group protecting recovery operations and salvage the warheads.” “What about stealing the plutonium right out of the warheads?” Alec asked. “They’re protected in steel casing so they could be smuggled out safely. Without the nuclear fuel, the warheads are almost completely harmless.” “As a last resort, it could be a possibility.” Jackson rubbed his tired eyes. “But, I would think getting in a control room and changing the trajectory might be more feasible. Whatever is done won’t be easy, they’ll be heavily guarded.” “That’s where I can help you,” Alec responded. “The cloaked drones we developed can be used to gain access to the facilities. Just like you used them to infiltrate Carter Pointe’s estate.” “You know, it’s not a bad idea Alec. We can use the drones to infiltrate the facilities and get their layout.” “Exactly what I thought Jackson. We can get surveillance on schedules, codes, personnel and building layouts.” “I have an idea if anyone would like to hear it,” Kali said in a sweet voice. “No, not really.” Alec glanced at her and then back at the map. In the time it took Alec to blink, Kali pulled out a knife and drove it through the map and into the table, her face inches away from Alec’s. “I think it’s a very good idea dear if you’ll just take a moment to consider it,” Kali said through clenched teeth, glaring at him, daring him to disagree. She pulled on the corner

of the map and the razor sharp blade cut it cleanly in half. Alec rocked back in his seat, his eyes and mouth opened wide in surprise. “Kali! How many times have we talked about your temper? Look what you’ve done to my map. Alec, do you have any tape?” Jackson gingerly took the map from her. “Uhhhh, yeah Jackson. The third cabinet on your left you’ll find some office supplies. Help yourself,” Alec said sheepishly. He didn’t dare take his eyes off Kali. Jackson busied himself with repairing his map while he listened to their conversation. “How did you get a knife on my plane?” Alec glanced between Kali and the blade embedded in the table. “I installed a metal detector built into the door for a safety precaution.” Kali grabbed the knife, rocked it back and forth to free it from the table and handed it to Alec. “Laminated Kevlar and ceramic, harder than steel, unbreakable and holds an edge forever,” Kali said. “After I lost Ototo, my short katana, I found the manufacturer and ordered several knives and a pair of swords. I had them delivered to the Army Surplus store in Dover since I knew we’d be going there.” Alec examined the knife while gingerly tested the edge with his thumb, and handed it back to her. “Are you always armed?” He raised one eyebrow. “Most of the time, yes,” she replied. “A girl never knows when she’ll have to defend herself.” She smiled and slid the knife into the sheath hidden up her sleeve. She placed her hands on the arm of his chair and leaned into him. “Now, are you ready to listen to my idea?” She tightened her lips into a thin smile. “You have my undivided attention, my dear,” “We’re supposed to be on a vacation, right?” she asked rhetorically. He responded with a nod. “Then let’s act like we’re on a vacation. We rent a car and go sightseeing. We take a picnic lunch and the drones with us and when we see something suspicious, we release the drones. We let them do some discrete surveillance and study the footage when we get back to the embassy.”

Alec responded with doubt in his eyes. “I’m not so sure I’m ready to put my wife and child in harm’s way.” “My dear,” Kali said. She stood and crossed her arms. “I’ve gotten out of more danger than you’ve ever been in.” “It may be true honey, but not while you were pregnant,” he said. He reached for her hands. “And why don’t we just keep the hands away from sharp objects for the time being. Remind me to frisk you before we go to bed tonight will you?” Alec pulled her into his lap and kissed her on the cheek. “I’m sorry I talked to you that way. Bygones?” “Bygones,” Kali replied. She pecked him on the cheek and put an arm around his neck. “You know Alec.” Jackson held up his repair job to inspect it. “Kali’s idea has some merit. It would be a good cover story when you think about it. My daughter and son-in-law come along as my guests. While you’re there, you decide to do some sightseeing while you’re in a country so rich in history. I actually think it could work.” “Well, I’m still not convinced.” Alec looked Kali in the eye. “But, I guess I’m outnumbered here. However, if you agree that we high tail it back to the embassy at the first sign of trouble, I’ll go along with it.” “I’ve never run away from trouble in my life,” Kali replied. “Humph! You’re telling me,” Jackson interjected. “She was the terror of the schoolyard if anyone picked on her brothers. I swear I think I spent more time in the principal’s office than I did at home. It’s why I made her take ballet lessons, so she could learn some self-control. What did she do? She used what she learned to beat up even bigger kids.” “I’m not talking about running away from a fight. I’m talking about saving the battle for another day. You’ve got someone else besides yourself to think about now.” Alec patted her belly. She put her hand on top of his for a moment. “Alright,” Kali sighed. “If there’s any sign of trouble we go straight back to the embassy. Are you happy now?”

“Very,” Alec replied. “So Jackson, I’m curious, you made her take ballet lessons and it made her even more dangerous. Why did you let her take lessons from a Samurai swordmaster? That’s a lot like throwing gasoline on a fire isn’t it?” “She did that all on her own.” Jackson waved his hand. “In college, I was captain of the fencing club and won some tournaments. I taught Kali because it teaches balance and coordination, and it gave me someone to practice with to keep myself sharp. Before long, she was always beating me. When she got old enough, she found an old samurai sword master. What was his name?” “Master Yu,” Kali replied. “And you took lessons from him for...about eight or nine years?” “I studied with Master Yu for 10 years.” “You know, the first time I met him I would have sworn he had one foot in the grave,” Jackson said thoughtfully. “But he could move faster than any human I’ve ever seen. And graceful as any ballerina. He once told me Kali was one of the best students he’d ever taught. After seeing her in action at the reception the other day, I believe he’s right.” “Alec,” Edmond called out from the cockpit. “We’re getting a message over the radio. I think you need to come up and hear this.” “Excuse me hon, up you go.” Alec stood to walk to the front of the plane. “I’d better see what this is all about.” Kali sat back down in the chair, still warm with his body heat. She turned her head to watch him walk away and smiled while she ired the view. Jackson’s ringing phone shook her out of her reverie. “Jackson Hunter,” he said. “Yes, sir, we’re en-route now, we should be landing on schedule... No sir, it’s not good news at all...He wouldn’t... What do you want me to do?... Well, it’s not going to be easy... Yes, sir, I believe I can put together a team to accomplish the objective.” Jackson put his phone on the table. Alec called out from the cockpit. “Jackson, bad news, we’ve been ordered to land in Kuwait. The Iraqis have closed their borders.”

“Yes, I just received a call from the State Department.” Jackson shook his head. “I think it might be time to call Valarius,” Alec added. “That’s a good idea, Alec. We’re going to need her help.” Jackson picked up his phone and walked to the rear of the plane where he could talk privately. After a lengthy conversation, he came back to sit with Kali. Alec came back to the table. “So, what did Valarius have to say?” “She’d heard rumors a few days ago. She’s convinced she knows the locations we’re looking for. Two oil rigs that are heavily guarded.” “I had a feeling she would have her finger on the pulse of everything going on,” Alec remarked. “You talk about this Valarius like she’s some sort of secret agent,” Kali remarked. “She’s better than any secret agent,” Alec said. “An agent has to keep his identity hidden. Valarius can hide in plain sight. Because she’s a native, she doesn’t draw any undue attention. Because she’s a trader she hears and sees things she can along to us.” “By the way, just how good friends are you and this Valarius?” Kali crossed her arms and began tapping her foot. “It was just business dear,” Alec answered. He patted Kali’s shoulder. “We worked together a few times in the past. Kind of a ‘you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours’ arrangement.” “And just where was this itch located?” “You’ll just have to trust me on this one, my love.” He said. He looked at her and winked. “You don’t want to know what I’ll do to you if I find out otherwise.” She narrowed her eyes. “Actually, I’ve gotten to work quite closely with Valarius over the last year.” Jackson’s eyes looked at the ceiling. “She’s really quite an impressive woman.

For all she’s been through she’s quite a handsome woman when you get to see her out of all the garb she wears.” “Oh really.” Alec’s eyes widened. “And just how much did you see? OW!” Alec flinched when Kali punched his shoulder and glared at him. “Would you cut it out!” “Well? How much did you see?” Kali looked at her father with a raised eyebrow. “It was just dinner in the home of a mutual friend. We’d just gotten back from an undercover op and we hadn’t eaten all day. There were plenty of people in the room with us. Don’t go getting any ideas.” Jackson held up both palms. “Okay you, no hitting,” Alec scolded, pointing to Kali. “Jackson, what’s our plan of action?” “You probably want to go buckle yourselves in,” Edmond announced. “We’re getting ready to make our descent.” The jet taxied to a stop and two camouflaged Humvees met them on the runway. Their luggage was quickly transferred into them when they offloaded the plane. “Kali, you and Edmond will go straight to the Embassy. Alec and I are going to make some arrangements to meet Valarius tomorrow. We’ll be back in time for dinner.” Alec kissed Kali, climbed into the first car, and drove away. Kali and Edmond got into the second car and drove into the city. “By the way Kali,” Edmond turned to ask her. “We assumed you were going shopping for clothes before we left. I distinctly heard some clunking noises coming from your packages while we were loading the luggage into the car.” “I’m afraid I don’t know what you’re talking about Edmond.” Kali tried her best to look innocent. “I’m talking about what you went into town to buy today. I take it you didn’t buy much in the way of clothing for this trip.” “If you must know, I went into town to buy some essentials. Desert survival

gear, canteens, camouflage clothing, boots, a pair of swords and a few other basics. Everything a girl needs.” She looked out the car window with a smile. Later at dinner, the four sat in the Embassy dining room discussing their plans. “Alright,” Jackson began. “The president of Iraq has declared they now have 2 nuclear missiles. He won’t hesitate to launch them if there’s any act of aggression against his country. I blame myself. I should have known they were deceiving us.” He rubbed his temples and hung his head. “The Iraqis have closed their borders and no one is allowed in or out of the country. They say any move, by any country, against them will be considered an act of war. “You had no way of knowing,” Alec said. “All the Intel we received told us the Iraqis didn’t possess the plutonium or the technology to make a nuclear weapon.” “Wait a minute,” Kali interrupted. “How do you know so much about intelligence reports?” “Because my company is the primary supplier of technology for the intelligence community, the CIA, NSA and the FBI. Plus a few other agencies the public doesn’t even know exist. I have connections with all of them. Those drones you used to recover the dinosaur eggs from Pointe are going to be a hit with the t Chiefs when I make my presentation to them. The video footage we got from your recovery work was great.” “I’ve been thinking about that Alec.” Jackson sat back and crossed his legs. “I could’ve used those during my negotiations with the Iraqi government. “The military has been after cloaked drones for some time now.” “Fascinating,” Edmond said, “Cloaked drones that shoot tranquilizer darts. I’d love to see them sometime.” “You just may get your chance, Edmond. I brought a couple of them with me. But first, we have some business to attend to.” “Right Alec,” Jackson broke in, “tomorrow morning, Alec and I are going to meet with a from Iraq before sunup and she’s going to smuggle us across the Iraqi border. Kali, you and Edmond can wait for us here. We should be gone

around three or four days, a week at the most.” “Oh no, you’re not leaving me behind,” Kali interrupted. “You know I can handle myself. I’m not some delicate female you need to protect.” “What I do know Kali, is you’re the mother of my grandchild. And I would never forgive myself if anything were to happen to you.” “You know,” Edmond said. “With the time your daughter and I spent on the ground in Iraq, our knowledge of the terrain could be very useful to you.” “Exactly right,” Kali chimed in. “With the time we spent traveling by camel to Babylon, We know the area pretty well.” “But we don’t have enough equipment for you.” Jackson objected. “I’ve already taken care of it. You thought I went clothes shopping. Instead, I picked up everything I needed at the army surplus store.” “I really don’t like the way this conversation is headed.” Alec looked back and forth between Kali, Jackson, and Edmond. “Alec,” Jackson said with resignation in his voice, “if you knew my daughter like I do, you would know you’re wasting your breath trying to talk her out of it. Besides, I think she’s proven she can take care of herself. I’ve never seen anyone move the way she did. The way she took out three armed thugs at the house the other night. And I hear she handled you well enough when she threw you out of the bedroom.” Alec’s cheeks turned red at the reminder. “It’s your mission Jackson so it’s your call,” Alec sighed. “It’s settled. We leave at O-four-hundred tomorrow morning. I think it would be wise for us to all turn in early.” Jackson stood. They walked out of the dining room and took the elevator to the third floor where the guest rooms were. Jackson and Edmond bid Alec and Kali good night and went to their rooms. Alec put his arm around his wife and walked her to their room, opening the door for her.

“Say what you want, but I’m not thrilled about dragging my pregnant wife and her elderly friend around the Iraqi desert,” Alec said. He pulled back the covers and climbed into bed. He wore pajama pants but no shirt and reclined against the headboard. “You’ve seen I can take care of myself. And, my elderly friend just happens to be in terrific shape for his age... Edmond handled himself quite well on our trip to Babylon,” Kali said from the bathroom. “One of these days I want to hear the rest of the details about your trip. I still don’t know what to think about it. I’m trying to keep an open mind but it sounds so far-fetched.” “Many a legend is based on fact,” Kali pointed out after she gargled and spit. “So I’ve heard, your father made the point to me while you were still asleep this morning.” “Ancient Babylon is dismissed because it lay in ruin for almost two-thousand years. If it wasn’t for the idol I found there when I was young, I would have never given the site a second thought. Magic and mysticism are a part of ancient history just like technology is today. We have no idea how much is true and how much is fantasy.” Kali got into bed and stared at the ceiling, wondering what tomorrow would bring. Could they really sneak in past the military and disable their missiles? The odds seemed to be against them. But, it wouldn’t be the first time, and surely wouldn’t be the last. She snuggled up against Alec and ran her fingers through the hair on his chest. “I thought you were going to frisk me for weapons.” A playful smile spread across her face. “I think that’s an excellent idea.” Alec reached over and turned out the light.

Chapter Twenty-Six: Valarius

THE MORNING LIGHT HAD only begun to chase the darkness from the sky, and a stiff westerly wind blew stinging dust everywhere. In the twilight, four figures stood wearing goggles to keep the debris from blinding them while they waited. They were dressed in the robes and head wraps of the local desert nomads, their weapons and gear well hidden beneath the garb they wore. Blowing sand was filling the tire tracks that lead away behind them. The groaning of an animal announced the arrival of visitors. After a few minutes, the head of a camel appeared over the dune. One by one, eight riders appeared, followed by four without riders. Without uttering a word, they circled the four who were waited on foot. The first rider faced the foursome, waiting. Slowly, the tallest of the four revealed his head so his face came into view. His sand-colored hair blew in the breeze and his lips formed a broad smile. “It’s good to see you again Valarius.” Jackson waved to his friend. “It is good to see you again Jackson Hunter,” the lead rider said. Without moving she added, “And may I see who is with you?” “Alright,” Jackson said to his three companions, “very slowly, take off your headdress and let her see you.” They complied and pulled the wrap from their heads so their faces were in full view. “Valarius, I would like you to meet my daughter, Kali. I believe you already know her husband Alec Desmond and this is our good friend, Edmond Livingston.” Jackson pointed out each one in turn. The rider uncovered an Uzi from beneath her robes, put the safety on and hung the strap around the saddle horn. She slid off the camel’s back and strode to Jackson, throwing her arms around him. “Jackson Hunter,” Valarius said in her heavy accent, “How long has it been? Six months?” “Five by my count, at any rate, far too long. I just wish it was under different circumstances.” With his arm around her shoulder, he turned to introduce her. “This is my good friend Valarius. We worked closely together on my last diplomatic mission to Iraq. Her services were invaluable.” “And just what services were those?” Kali approached with a smile and hand

extend. Instead of shaking, Valarius wrapped her arms around her, and Kali grunted from the force exerted in the embrace. “So this is the daughter I have heard so much about.” Valarius held her at arm’s length. “Your father mentioned you daily, if not, by the hour. I feel like I have known you your whole life. But, to answer your question, I do favors for your father and your father has done favors for me.” “Hello Valarius,” Alec broke in. “Alec Desmond.” Valarius embraced him. “I had not heard from you in so long I imagined you dead. And now I see a woman has finally captured your heart.” Her fingers brushed his jawline. “How well do you two know each other?” Kali stepped in between them facing Alec. “It happened long before I met you and it was just business on behalf of the agency,” Alec replied. He backed up a step. Kali turned to face Valarius and eyed her up and down. Although her robes hid her figure, Kali’s imagination filled in the blanks. Valarius’ eyes were dark and penetrating, her face, though roughened by sun and sand, still beautiful without makeup. She stood two inches taller than Kali and looked back at her with an air of confidence. “Your husband speaks the truth,” Valarius said with a teasing smile. “I’m very pleased to meet you Valarius.” Edmond extended his hand. She reached out, took his hand, and pumped it a few times. “Any friend of Jackson Hunter is my friend as well.” Valarius turned again toward Jackson. “If I am understanding correctly,” She said. “We are to find the missiles this man threatens to unleash.” “That’s the plan,” Jackson said. “If we can disable them, perhaps even remove the plutonium, he loses his bargaining chip and we can reopen negotiations.” “A small man with a gun becomes drunk with power,” Valarius said. “A small man with a bigger gun has delusions of grandeur. We believe the target of one is

Berlin and the other is London. It will take us two days to reach the site, and when we do, it will be heavily guarded.” “We may just have a way around it,” Alec said. “I brought some equipment I believe can help us circumvent security.” “Very well.” Valarius strode over and mounted her camel. “The missiles are located at As-Samawah. It is a small city far to the south of Baghdad. They are disguised to look like oil platforms. We have a long journey ahead of us and the heat of the day grows near. It would be best to begin without delay.” A day and a half into their journey, the site of ancient Babylon came into view. “Normally, the train brings tourists through once a day to view the ruins.” Valarius pointed to the ancient stone rubble. Alec and Jackson, who rode on either side of her. “Since the borders have been closed, the tracks lie unused.” “This is where Gunter died.” Kali rode up beside them. “This Gunter you speak of,” Valarius said, “He is the archaeologist murdered here recently.” “Yes,” Kali replied. “He was a dear family friend.” “I met him as I traveled through this area. He was a nice gentleman. Although, he spoke of some crazy old legend of the stone that changes history. I hope he did not die in search of, how do you say it, a wild goose.” Kali felt a pain shoot through her heart when she recalled seeing her old friend bleeding to death on the cold stone floor. Tears ran down her cheeks when she looked toward the ruins. Jackson’s satellite phone beeped, and he struggled to reach it under his garb. He listened for several minutes. “We’re at the ruins of Babylon. We should reach the first site in two hours. But sir, your information doesn’t agree with the Intel I have. Sir, I strongly advise against this course of action, you’ve got to give me more time. You have the wrong coordinates. The missiles are not at that location.” He listened for another minute and put the phone back. “Valarius, our mission has changed,” Jackson called to her.

“What is happening?” She asked. “Washington thinks they’ve discovered the location of the missiles. They’ve ordered an air strike on Ash-Shafrah. A chopper is coming to pick us up.” A roar in the distance grew louder. Streaking past them, low in the sky, four F117 Nighthawk stealth fighter jets flew overhead, leaving a sandstorm in their wake. When the dust settled, the group watched them shrink into dots in the distance. Several explosions in the distance shook the earth beneath them. “Those damn bureaucratic fools.” Jackson narrowed his eyes. “I knew they wouldn’t be happy until they started a war.” “I believe they just did.” Edmond pointed far to the left of where the explosions took place. Smoke billowed and a plume of fire followed a projectile into the air. “My God! What have those bastards done?” Jackson hung his head. In the distance, the thumping of helicopter blades announced their ride to safety. “Valarius, come with us. We’ll get you to safety.” “No my friend, there will not be room for us all. We will be alright. You must me if you need me again.” Jackson and Valarius held hands for a moment. An AW101 Merlin slowed it’s approach and hovered a hundred yards away. A door slid open and a soldier stood in the opening waving at them to approach. Jackson released Valarius’ hand and began riding away, followed by Kali, Alec, and Edmond. When the chopper began its descent, and a blinding flash of light and a deafening roar knocked the four of them off their camels. The smoldering remains of the helicopter crashed to the ground. Dazed, Kali crawled away from the wreckage. She searched for her father. Valarius was helping him to his feet and Alec had one arm around Edmond. They hurried from the crash site, and an Iraqi Mig fighter streaked overhead. Several of Valarius’ men climbed aboard their camels and rode away at a furious pace. Valarius screamed curses at them in Arabic, but they rode on. “We must find a hiding place among the ruins,” Valarius said. “The jet will return to see if there were survivors. We will be easy targets. Is anyone injured?”

“I’m fine, just a little shaken up,” Jackson said. He walked to Kali. “I’m okay dad, My ears are still ringing though. Alec, Edmond, you alright?” “My ears are ringing too,” Alec shouted. “This isn’t the closest shave I’ve had. But, I’d rather not have another.” “I’m fine Kali. At least this time I wasn’t in the crash.” Edmond dusted himself off. “We’d better get moving. That Jet will be back any second.” Valarius and her two remaining men led the way with Kali and the others close behind. They hurried to duck behind the piles of sand and bricks just when the fighter roared overhead. “Edmond, we have to try and stop that missile!” Kali stuck her head up to get her bearings. “But Kali, what can we do?” He looked at her with his eyebrows knotted. “If we can get to the Evolution Stone, we can wish this all away.” “Do you think we can get there in time?” Edmond called out. Kali ran toward the temple site. “You can’t be serious,” Alec shouted. “I’m afraid she is,” Jackson said. He ran after her. Valarius and her men stood there looking confused. She shrugged her shoulders and ran after Jackson. Her men quickly fell in behind her. With a growl, Alec then sprinted after his wife. Kali stood, surveying the ruins, trying to get her bearings. Jackson strode up, followed closely by Alec. “You two are nuts. If we were back home I’d have you committed,” Alec came up beside Kali. “We need to get out of here and get to a bunker.” “Don’t you see? We can stop it from here, there doesn’t have to be any war.” Kali turned to face Alec. “Kali, this is crazy. Even if we’re not blown to bits by our own army and navy

we could be captured by the Iraqi military.” “They’ll never find us,” Kali said. Alec tried to grab her arm but she swung around and ran to the familiar section of wall. “But Kali,” Edmond said. “How are we ever going to get in the entrance?” “With this,” Kali said. She removed her pack and unzipped the bag. She rummaged around and pulled out the bronze idol. “I meant to leave it at your house but when we had to change our plans I forgot to unpack it.” Kali showed it to the group. “Valarius, perhaps you and your men should find a place of safety. We can hide out underground until things calm down.” “Underground? You speak foolishness, these are the ruins of Babylon, there is nothing underground but sand and rock.” “You’re wrong Valarius. The temple of Marduk is here and there is a secret entrance leading deep underground where we can be safe.” “How do you know this? I live here my entire life and I know of no underground chambers.” Valarius tilted her head. “We waste precious time, we must leave or die!” “Because Edmond and I have been there and the reason you don’t know about the entrance is I have the key.” Kali held the image aloft. “This vile thing is the goddess of the underworld to my people.” Valarius mouth twisted into a snarl. “It visits them in only in their nightmares, this demon guards the gate to hell.” “It guards something very much different.” Kali went to the spot on the wall and set the idol in its place. “I say we grab her and drag her out of here.” Alec walked up to Jackson. “If you want to be the one to try it,” Jackson replied. “Be my guest. But we’re a long way from any medical facilities. Just factor that into your thought process.” He patted Alec on the shoulder and hurried toward Kali. “This better work or we’re all going up in a fireball.” Jackson looked at his

daughter with his jaws clenched. “Well, don’t just stand there,” Kali told them. “Help me clear this area.” Her three companions knelt around her, and using their hands began clearing away the floor. A sunburst pattern Kali recognized came into view. When they finished she looked to Edmond. “Edmond, my friend, you led the way last time. Care to take point again?” “I would be delighted.” He hurried and stood in the center of the sunburst and grabbed his flashlight. Kali yanked the idol up and Edmond vanished. “What just happened? Alec asked, his forehead crinkled. “Dad, Alec, you’ll need your flashlights.” She called over to them. Valarius and her men stood with blank looks on their faces. “Mr. Livingston was just here with you was he not?” Valarius asked. “This is the secret entrance into the old temple of Marduk,” Kali said. “Alec, you need to stand in the center of the sunburst pattern.” Alec pulled out his flashlight and tested it. He picked up his over-sized duffle and walked over to the spot Edmond occupied moments ago. “For the record, I think this is just about the craziest thing I’ve ever heard.” “Noted,” Kali placed the idol back into the socket and pulled it out again. When she looked over, Alec was gone. “Jackson, I am not sure this is a good thing to do,” Valarius objected. The Mig roared overhead. “Valarius, you and your men should go and find some cover,” Jackson said. He picked up his duffle bag and stood in the starburst. “Kali, how deep will we be underground?” “It’s just a guess, Dad, but I think it’s about two stories down or more.” Kali scanned the sky surrounding them, looking for the fighter.

“I believe we’ll be safe underground if there’s no one around to give our position away,” Jackson said to Valarius. “Alright Kali, my turn.” Before Valarius could object further, Jackson disappeared through the opening. Valarius said something in Arabic to her men and she and her companions turned to go to their mounts. Just when they reached their camels, a missile streaked overhead. An explosion of debris rained down brick and sand on top of them from fifty-yards away. “There’s no time,” Kali shouted. She waved them back. “You’ll be sitting ducks. You’d better come with us.” Valarius shouted orders to her men, and they quickly grabbed what weapons they could carry. They slapped the camels on their hindquarters, yelling in Arabic, waving their arms. The animals bucked and bolted away at top speed. Valarius lead the way, shouting orders. They took turns, first one, then another disappeared through the age. “Now your turn.” Kali pointed toward the spot on the floor. “But how will you get down? It will not be safe above ground. You should go and I will stay,” Valarius said. She looked past Kali, searching the sky. “Just go, I have a way worked out so don’t worry, I’ve got this,” Kali shouted. Valarius needed no more encouragement. She picked up what supplies she could carry, stepped on the spot, and quickly disappeared. Kali had already pulled out a pack of dental floss she slipped it into her pocket earlier. She nervously tied it to the idol, looked up and spotted a distant spec above the horizon. Two puffs of smoke appeared and she knew two more missiles were on their way. She strung out the floss and quickly backed over to the center of the sunburst, wrapping the floss around her hand several times. Kali jerked the string and daylight turned to darkness.

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Back To The Temple

KALI SLID UNDERGROUND when the explosions rocked the earth above her. Even if someone did investigate, debris would cover their escape well. She continued her descent with the idol clattering in the chute above her. When her feet hit the ground, she did a somersault and skidded to a stop several feet away. The idol shot through the opening and the sword points embedded into the floor behind her. Surveying her surroundings, a light shone in her face. “Kali, someone triggered the floor trap.” Alec waved her on. “You’ve got to hurry.” Kali scooped up the idol and raced toward the light. Scanning the walls, it was obvious there was no time to lose, the rising floor was about to seal the opening. Kali dropped to a slide to cover the remaining few feet and skidded through to safety. Sailing through the air her body hit the unforgiving floor with a thud. Several lights soon illuminated her body sprawled out on the floor. “I’m liking this idea of yours less already. We’re not down here five minutes and already you’re putting your life and the baby in danger.” Alec stood over Kali while she groaned and gave him a dirty look. “Shut up and help me up will you?” Kali extended her hand. “Well at least you landed on the part with the most padding,” Alec extended his hand, and she glared up at him for a moment before she took hold of it. “You weren’t complaining about the padding two nights ago if I correctly,” Kali huffed. She gained her feet and dusted herself off. “I love the padding,” Alec said. He took her into his arms. “It’s the icing on the cake. Hmm, that gives me an idea for when we get back home.” “Now children.” Jackson strode over to them. “We have company, so keep things clean.” Valarius moved cautiously down the hall, examining the walls and floor with their lights. “It looks like this hallway leads out into a maze,” Jackson said. “Since you and

Edmond have been here before I’m hoping you the way.” “I can do better.” Kali reached for her phone. “I have a map.” She tapped on her screen, found what she wanted, and turned the phone to show her father. “You have a map of the entire temple?” Jackson asked. “Well, right up to the point where we were captured.” “Captured!” Jackson’s eyes widened. “You didn’t say anything before about being captured! You mean there are other people down here?” “I didn’t mention it?” Kali put on her doe-eyed look. “No, you failed to mention that little tidbit. I wish you would have. I wouldn’t have allowed you to go through with this.” “I don’t you bringing it up in the conversation either.” Alec removed his .45 A Glock from his holster. He ejected the magazine to make sure the clip was full, slid it back in, pulled back on the slide and engaged the safety. “They fancy themselves ‘the bodyguard makers’. They have a ritual where they cut your heart out, mummify you and dress you in armor. They place your body in a crypt to guard the entrance to Nebuchadnezzar’s tomb. Some local, Kaseem, was their leader.” Kali shed her desert robes, revealing her two katana swords strapped to her back. “You know of Kaseem?” Valarius approached Kali, her eyes glaring. “Met him, yes. He and his men shot down my plane and claimed some rebels in the area did it. He befriended us and brought us to Babylon.” Kali tried to read Valarius’ body language. “Why? Do you know him?” “He is my brother,” Valarius said. “He has been missing for weeks now. I fear him dead. You say you saw him last here at Babylon?” “I saw him last here, inside the crypt where he attempted to cut our hearts out and mount us in with the ‘army of the dead.’” Kali tensed, wondering what her reaction would be.

“You lie! My brother would not do such a thing!” Valarius reached for her weapon. Before her hand touched the pistol grip, Kali’s sword hovered inches from her throat, the razor-sharp edge glistening in the dim light. Kali’s heart skipped a beat when there was the sound of a metallic click behind her and the muzzle of a gun touched the base of her head. Bashur stood a head taller than anyone else in the group. His eyes fierce and his face grim. “Tell your man to put his gun away or I’ll take his head first and then yours before he can pull the trigger,” Kali said in a cold, calm voice. In reality, her heart pounded from the adrenaline. Jackson stepped in between Kali and Valarius, placing his hand under her blade and pushing it away. “The last thing we need is to start a war down here when we’re trying to prevent one up there,” Jackson scolded. “A missile has just been launched and it’s going to kill millions of innocent people if we don’t stop it. We can’t do it if we’re fighting one another.” Valarius gave a command and Bashur released the hammer on his revolver, placing it back into his belt. Kali, Alec, and Jackson each breathed a sigh of relief. Alec pulled his Glock away from behind Bashur’s back. He put the safety on and replaced it in the holster. Edmond and Valarius’ other man, Yasha, strode back. “We tried scouting around, but this place is still confusing just like the last time we... were... here...” His voice trailed off when he noticed Kali putting her sword back into the scabbard. “Anything wrong?” “No,” Jackson answered. “Just a little misunderstanding. Everything’s fine.” “So, you killed my brother.” Valarius placed her hands on her hips, glaring at Kali. “I did not kill your brother.” Kali folded her arms over her chest. “I left him tied up, but I didn’t kill him.” “He still lived when you saw him last? Swear this to me!” Valarius demanded, her face inches away from Kali’s. “I swear when last I saw him he was shouting for his men to break down the

door before I stepped into a secret age.” “Use your map, I will see this room for myself.” Valarius stepped aside and made a sweeping motion with her arm. Alec grabbed Kali by the arm and pulled her down the hallway. “I’d like a word with my wife in private if you’ll excuse us.” When they reached the end of the hall, he spun to face her. “Just what are we doing here Kali? If everything you’ve told me is true, we’re about to take these people to the most powerful artifact the world has ever seen. How do we know they won’t get delusions of grandeur and want to be rulers of the world?” “We don’t know,” Kali replied. “I didn’t want them down here in the first place. But, they would have been blown to bits if I’d left them up there. And have you seen the way my father has been looking at her, all moony-eyed?” “I don’t believe it! At a time like this? We have bigger problems to deal with and you’re objecting to your father having a crush on some local woman? Wait, your father has a thing for Valarius?” “I don’t know what you two are arguing about now,” Jackson broke in. “But, we don’t have any time to waste. You can save your domestic disputes for later. Right now, we have a war to stop. That missile will reach Europe in an hour. Kali, get your map out and lead the way. Let’s get this show on the road!” “But daaad...” Kali objected. “No buts, young lady. Now!” His eyes narrowed and his lips set thin. Frustrated, Kali studied her phone to orient herself to her surroundings. “Wait a minute. I brought a little something I believe will help us.” Alec walked over, picked up his duffle bag and fished something out. “Our drones,” Kali said. “My drones,” Alec brought them to her. “Yours were prototypes. These carry a few extras we’ve added. I can maps into them and they can follow specific routes. They have greater range and they can fire tranquilizer darts to take out an enemy silently. Now, turn on your Bluetooth and your maps

to my phone. I can control the drones remotely with it. They can scout ahead of us, just in case this Kaseem and his men are still down here.” With a few more taps on her phone, Kali made the transmission. The drones whirred to life and hovered in front of them. With a few more taps, one approached Alec for a few seconds before it moved on to each one standing in the hallway. “What are they doing now?” Jackson asked. He reared his head back when one stopped inches from his face before zipping away. “It’s memorizing your face. If it encounters anyone else besides one of us lurking around down here, it will alert me and I can choose to neutralize them or avoid them if possible.” “I want one of those,” Kali said. “Bruce will never let me live it down if he finds out about this and he doesn’t get one.” “I’ll have one sent over when we get back.” Alec rolled his eyes. When it finished with each member of the team, both units turned and took off down the hallway. With their camouflage, they were quickly out of sight. Alec took off after them while the rest of the company followed. Kali jogged up next to him. At first, the display was nearly black. Alec tapped the screen and turned on the infrared and the details of the hallway lit up like a Broadway stage. Kali ed how vivid the pictographs on the walls were from her first trip to the tomb. After fifteen minutes of walking through the labyrinth, they came to the entrance of the sacrificial room. The drones hovered, awaiting instructions. Alec sent the command for them to search the chamber. They entered, each taking a different path, scouring each portion of the area. Kali followed the drones, shining her light around. Everything looked just like it did before, and she made her way to the altar at the front. Jackson and Alec followed her with Edmond, Valarius and her two guards close behind. Everyone but Kali and Edmond stared around the room at the macabre display painted on the walls. “What is this place?” Alec focused his light on the depiction of a victim having

his heart pulled from his chest. “My ancient Babylonian is rusty.” Jackson studied the text and pictures. “My best guess is this is a place where they brought criminals and captives and sacrificed them to their gods. Marduk I believe.” “That was Gunter’s assessment as well,” Kali replied. “Their hearts were removed to take away their devotion to their king. Afterward, they were taken to another room and prepared to be part of Nebuchadnezzar’s bodyguard.” “I have killed many men.” Valarius studied the grisly depictions with awe. “But, I have never killed any who were helpless. I cannot believe my brother would do such a thing.” She glared at Kali. “Valarius, I respect your feelings toward your brother,” Edmond interjected. “But I was down here with Kali. Everything she told you is true.” “Might I remind everyone we don’t have time for debate,” Jackson interrupted. “Lives are at stake and we don’t have time for this. Now, there’s no doorway out of here. What’s our next move?” Kali returned Valarius’ glare briefly, spun on her heel, and moved toward the table. “Edmond, would you mind?” Kali asked, gesturing toward the large flat stone. “I believe you know what to do. As long as you don’t get up before we put fire in the altar, it won’t trigger the blades in the columns.” Edmond made his way to the table and sat down, a loud click echoed off the stone walls. Jackson ran his hand over the polished brass. “These are blades?” “Stay away from those. They drop down and spin if someone sits on the table and then gets up. Get too close and you’ll look like stewed tomatoes.” Jackson jerked his hand away and moved to the front of the room and ed her. “Now we need some fire in the basin,” Kali said. “We used the torches the last time.” She walked to the wall and took a torch down from the holder. Running her fingers over the center, sniffing at it. “This one has the fuel burned out. Check the others.” Valarius gave orders to her men and each person fanned out to examine the remaining torches.

“This one is dry,” Jackson said. “This one too,” Alec added “I do not believe this one is going to do us any good,” Valarius called out from the opposite side of the room. Yasha shouted something. “He says he believes this one might burn.” Valarius took the torch Yasha handed to her and gave it to Kali. She ran her finger across the wick and sniffed. “This one is nearly exhausted but it may be just enough.” Kali reached into her pocket for a means to light it. “Wait.” Alec placed his hand on hers. “Let’s hedge our bet.” He retrieved a spare ammo clip and pushed four bullets out of it. Using a multi-tool from his belt he used the pliers to remove the bullets from the brass cartridge. Pouring the gunpowder into the basin, he motioned for Kali to hand him the torch. He took out a lighter and held it to the wick. At first, it appeared nothing would happen, but gradually, a small yellow flame flickered to life. Alec took the lighter away and breathlessly stared at the small flame. Slowly the flame grew and then began to fade. He threw the torch into the basin, the gunpowder caught and flame shot out of the basin that reached the ceiling. The room lit up as if lightning had struck. The sound of stone on stone signaled the door sliding open. The two drones zipped through the opening and down the hallway toward the crypt of the bodyguard. Kali had learned what to look for to keep track of their movement, in spite of their cloaking. She darted after them, shining her light down the darkened age, calling for the rest to follow her. She stopped before the threshold of the large door to wait for the others. Valarius and Yasha chattered in their native tongue while they ed the group. When her father came up beside her, she asked him under her breath what they were saying. “Apparently, Yasha is able to read the script on the walls. He seems very upset about what it says, ‘Only The Dead May Enter,’ over and over.” “Many of my people are superstitious,” Valarius added. “Stories of long-held beliefs are ed from father to son. Such things are difficult to dismiss.” “I can’t say I blame them,” Alec ed them. “I’ve seen lots of scary things but

this place definitely gives me the creeps.” “You haven't seen anything yet. Edmond, do you have your canteen ready?” Kali asked. Edmond held it up for her to see and stepped on the threshold. Kali ed him and extended her hand to her father. He took it and stepped onto the floor plate when they heard the door mechanism engage and the massive doors creaked open. The drones whizzed by them surveying the new room. Kali looked over Alec’s shoulder. The split screen display showed the rows of macabre remains, corpses dressed in black armor with blank eyes staring ahead as if watching for tresers. Kali spotted a newer corpse with emaciated lips showing a single gold tooth and a gaping hole in his chest where his heart had once been. It was Kaseem. “Alright everyone, pay attention,” Kali announced. “This room is heavily boobytrapped. The last time Edmond and I were here we almost didn’t make it out alive. Once we’re inside we need to move quickly to the table in the center of the room. Edmond will lie down on the table while the rest of us surround it. We need to pour a canteen of water onto the floor surrounding the table. If we hurry, we’ll be lowered through the floor before the trap goes off.” “Just what happens when the trap goes off?” Jackson asked. “All hell breaks loose,” Edmond answered. “Arrows and javelins fly at you from every direction. I’ve been in some dogfights in the R.A.F. but nothing hairraising like what we went through in there.” “The arrows are poison tipped and it seems there’s no safe spot in the room,” Kali added. “It looks like the corpses are holding weapons,” Alec said. He studied his viewscreen. “I assume it’s where the arrows come from. “Right, I got a close look the last time,” Kali answered. “Although it looks to be fired from the bodyguards, the weapons actually come from a hole in the wall behind them.” “Corpses as bodyguard?” Valarius asked. Her eyes widened eyed in realization. “Could it be?”

“The bodyguard of Nebuchadnezzar,” Kali answered. “And underneath is a hidden age. It takes us to the tomb of Nebuchadnezzar.” “Let me remind everyone,” Jackson broke in. “The world is less than an hour away from thermo-nuclear war and we may be the only ones who can stop it. So I suggest we get moving.” “Everyone, stay close, stay away from the walls and follow me.” Kali led the way into the room and straight toward the table. She spotted fresh blood on the table and base. “Edmond, would you take your position?” Kali asked. She gestured toward the tabletop. “Everyone, stay close,” she said loudly. “The sooner we’re out of this room, the better,” Edmond muttered. He lay on the table. Movement out of the corner of her eye gave Kali a start. She spun around, Valarius was moving away from them. She pointed her light toward one of the bodyguards, to the feet, up the legs, over the chest and finally, onto his face. Stunned, she dropped her flashlight, fell to her knees and began wailing. “Dad!” Kali shouted. “We don’t have time for this. If she stays here she’ll die.” “Yasha, Bashur.” Jackson gave them orders in Arabic and gestured for them to bring her back. The men ran to her, imploring her to them, but she wouldn’t budge. She fell onto her face sobbing and wailing, pushing their hands away. “Hurry, bring her,” Jackson shouted. “Dad, quick, Pour the water,” Kali said. “But we have to wait for them,” Jackson pleaded. “It will take a minute for the mechanism to engage, now pour before we all turn into pin-cushions!” Jackson spun the top off the canteen and splattered water over the grooves in the floor. After a few seconds, the mechanism engaged and the floor beneath them quavered. Valarius was resisting Yasha. Bashur finally picked her up, threw her over his shoulder, hurrying toward them.

The table inched through the floor and Kali knew the arrows would begin flying any moment. Edmond quickly sat up when Bashur jumped with Valarius draped over his shoulder. She beat his back with her fists and screamed curses at him. He dumped her onto the tabletop and everyone looked up at Yasha calling for him to jump down. His eyes widened and his mouth dropped open. Blood dripped onto Kali’s face while she stared up at the doomed Yasha, an arrow-tip protruded from his chest then three more arrows impaled him. His knees buckled and he fell backward into the crypt. They descended into the darkness below. “Valarius, I’m so sorry,” Kali said softly. She placed her hand on her shoulder. “You killed him! You killed my brother!” Valarius whirled around to face Kali, pulling a Makarov nine-millimeter, and pointing it at her head.

Chapter Twenty-Eight: The Tomb Revisited

JACKSON REACHED FOR Valarius’ gun but was met with the flash of a blade. Kali pulled her katana and knocked the gun from her hand then put the sword back in one fluid motion. The pistol clattered to the floor while Valarius stared with an open mouth, then lunged at Kali. Kali sidestepped and spun around. Valarius momentum took her past Kali and into the hallway. “I told you when I left him he still lived!” Kali shouted. “You lie!” Valarius screamed and threw herself at Kali again. This time she grabbed Valarius wrist and fell backward. Putting her left foot into Valarius stomach, she flew over Kali landing hard on the unyielding stone floor onto her back. With the wind knocked out of her, she lay still for a moment. When she caught her breath, she began to sob. “Valarius, I know it’s of no comfort to you,” Edmond said. He knelt next to her, taking her hand. “Kali and I were together and she’s telling you the truth. Kali did not kill your brother.” “I killed Kaseem,” a voice behind them said. During the distraction, the table had risen into the room above, opening the age behind them. Three men holding Kalashnikov rifles aimed at them and a fourth holding a Sig Saur semiautomatic pistol. “Afran?” Valarius rose to her feet. “Is it really you?” “Yes sister, I am here.” “You could not kill our brother. This infidel, she killed him,” She said, pointing to Kali. “No sister, I slew him. Kaseem was a fool. Our family, from long ago descended from the makers of the bodyguard. We guard the tomb of Nebuchadnezzar, but this was not enough for Kaseem. Our brother had dreams of being a king. We were to prepare these two to the bodyguard. But, that dog Adjay helped them escape. They had Kaseem tied to a preparation table when we broke down the door. A sword hung above him. I cut the cord myself and ran him through. Now, these infidels are in my grasp again, they will soon our brother.”

“How did you know Adjay?” Edmond asked. “Adjay was our cousin. We sent him to to retrieve the tablets, the Chronicles of Nebuchadnezzar, but the imbecile failed. He called us from England to tell us of your arrival, but you survived the missile we fired at your plane. Then he betrayed us when he aided your escape.” “I knew he couldn’t be trusted,” Kali said. Her fists clenched and her eyes narrowed. “Afran, no, they mean us no harm,” Valarius pleaded. “We are here to prevent a war. President Nassir has launched a nuclear missile at Europe.” “Let the infidels and the mad-man kill one another!” Afran spit out the words. “When they do, we can take back our land that was stolen from us.” “Afran, I cannot allow you to do this. Millions of innocent people will die. Our homes, our land will be destroyed.” “If you stand in my way Valarius, you must with Kaseem.” Afran aimed his pistol at her. Before he could pull the trigger, Bashur stepped between them. “Poor Bashur.” Afran pulled back the hammer. “So fiercely devoted to Valarius. The mind of a child inside the body of a bear. You will make a fine addition to the bodyguard.” Before he could pull the trigger there was a puff of air and a dart lodged in his neck. Afran’s eyes rolled back, and he with his companions collapsed to the ground, each with tranquilizer darts stuck in their throats from the drones. “You cut it pretty close with the drones didn’t you?” Kali glared at Alec. “Hey, it wasn’t me. They’re on autopilot, ? I’ll make sure the boys at the lab tweak the response time.” “The important thing right now is the thirty minutes we have left to try and stop that missile.” Jackson collected the guns from the floor. “Quite right,” Edmond said. “Do you think there’s any more of them lurking around down here?”

“We’ll know soon enough.” Alec tapped the screen on his remote. The drones sailed through the doorway and Alec followed them while the rest fell in behind. “Some family you have there,” Jackson said to Valarius. “As children, we learn to do whatever is necessary to survive. Our tribe has been hunted by the mad-man, Nassir for many years,” Valarius explained. “Growing up, I heard stories of the makers of the bodyguard, only the men are initiated into it. This is hidden from the women. I did not know how ruthless my brothers had become.” “We’ve worked together for many years Valarius,” Jackson said. “You’ve never mentioned anything about your family.” “And whenever we are together you have spoken about little else. I see why you are so proud of your daughter. She has amazing skill with a blade. She could have easily taken my hand off, yet she used the back of the blade.” “I taught her everything I knew, but her skills have progressed far beyond my training. Just last week I saw her take out three armed men before they could get off a shot. “Kali is very graceful and skilled with a blade. She moves so fast...” “Dad.” Kali put an arm around her father. “We’re near the preparation room door and we’re sure there’s someone inside.” “Can’t you just send the drones in to take care of them?” “It would be my preference, but the door is closed, well mostly closed, the hinges are broken but the opening is too small for the drones to get through.” “Do they know we’re out here?” “Since Afran knew we were here, they must be expecting him to be bringing bodies back for them to work on.” Alec studied the display on his remote. “We can go back and take their clothes, disguise ourselves, trick them into opening the door,” Jackson said in a low voice.

“I say we blow the door, and go in and take them out,” Alec ed them. “There are times when the simple solution is best,” Valarius whispered. She left the group and marched to the door. “Valarius wait,” Jackson called out in a hushed tone. She hesitated and then pounded on the door. Voices came from inside speaking rapidly in Arabic. The door opened wide enough for a face to peer out and the man’s eyes widened in recognition. “Hello, Quabad.” Valarius used the heel of her hand thrusting it hard into the man’s nose. His head jerked backward and his skull hit the stone floor. The drones sailed through the opening and short bursts of gunfire erupted. One dart fired, then a second, then silence. “All clear,” Alec announced after studying his view-screen. Bashur helped Valarius push the door open and everyone followed them inside. The unfortunate man who opened the door had to be stepped over, blood still oozing from his nose. “You knew him?” Jackson asked Valarius. “We played together when we were children, and yet he would have cut our hearts out without a thought.” Valarius spit on him. Behind the preparation tables lay two men, each with a tranquilizer dart in his neck and an assault rifle in his hand. “Those drones of yours are certainly accurate,” Edmond mused. “You know, you could use them for body-guards.” “Hmm, I hadn’t thought of that. I’ll have to run it by the boys when I get back home,” Alec replied. Kali went to the opposite wall setting the base of the idol into the socket made for it. With the rasping of stone on stone, the door slid upward revealing the dark age beyond. “Valarius, Dad, just wait until you see this.” Kali motioned with a sweep of her hand. Valarius reached out for Jackson’s hand and pulled him along when she stepped through the opening. Kali raised an eyebrow at Alec. Edmond was about to enter, but Bashur cut in ahead of him and hurried to catch up with Valarius. Alec and Kali were the last

to go through the opening and Kali snatched the statue from the wall. The door inched shut behind her. She stepped into the room while the others moved around the room. Her father, Valarius, and Bashur cast their lights around the chamber with wide eyes and mouths. The beauty of Nebuchadnezzar’s tomb still took Kali’s breath away, even though she’d already seen it. The craftsmanship of the ivory and gold sculptures were mesmerizing. The statues of people, gods and goddesses inspired awe. Jackson and Valarius were still hand in hand, studying the sarcophagus with the writing and pictographs covering the base. Kali laid a hand on her father’s shoulder. He placed his hand on top of hers and flashed a smile. “I know you tried to tell me about this, but there’s no accurate way to describe it.” “Until you’ve seen this with your own eyes, words could never do it justice,”Kali said. “When you were ten and I brought you to Babylon, I was amazed Gunter let you keep that statue.” “If only he had known he gave you the key to finding what he searched for all of his life,” Edmond added. “Speaking of keys,” Kali hefted the idol in her hand. “Alec, be a big strong man and give me a boost up.” Alec knelt beside her, and she stepped on his knee. She stepped on his shoulder and he groaned. “How much do you weigh?” Alec winced, his face turning red. “And how much of that is baby weight?” Kali stood on his shoulder a half-a-minute longer than she needed to. “You never ask a woman about her weight. And you weren’t complaining about my weight the other night when I was....” “I do not want to hear the rest of that sentence.” Jackson raised his palm. “Could we please move this along?” Kali rolled her eyes and climbed on top of the sarcophagus. “Stand back everyone.” Kali placed the idol into the socket. With a grinding

noise, the monument slid over to reveal the watery opening beneath it. “If I read this correctly,” Jackson said. “This text says the god Marduk subdued the goddess Tiamat and imprisoned her below.” “Yes, I met her. She’s a thirty-foot crocodile.” Kali threw one leg over and slid down to the floor. “Wait a minute.” Alec pointed to the opening. “Did you just say there’s a thirtyfoot croc down there?” “I’m guessing, I did get a pretty close look at it,” Kali said flatly. “But I think I trapped it, that’s how Ototo got lost.” She pulled her short sword from its scabbard and moved toward the opening. “Hold on there.” Alec jumped in front of Kali. “If you think for one moment I’m letting my wife, my pregnant wife, go down there with a thirty-foot crocodile, then you’ve lost your mind.” “I survived the last trip,” Kali said. “And like I said, I think it’s dead.” “If it’s not, it’s really pissed off,” Jackson added. “I’m going.” Alec placed his hands on Kali’s shoulders and walked her backward a few steps. “End of discussion.” “This isn’t the time to pull the man card, Alec,” Kali growled. “I’m the best qualified.” Alec pointed his thumb at his chest. “Swim team champion three years in a row in college. I still swim three miles a day. I’m the best swimmer here. Besides, I’ve got something here that might be useful.” He knelt down, unzipped his pack and pulled out two grenades. “It looks like you came prepared,” Edmond said. “Actually.” Alec stood, stuffing the grenades in his pockets. “If I’d been prepared, I would have brought a spear gun with grenade tips. But since I didn’t, these will have to do.” “Let him go.” Jackson put his arm around his daughter. Kali put her sword back

and marched to Alec, grabbed him by his shirt and pulled him close. “You’d better come back in one piece.” Then she kissed him long and hard. “That thing is attracted to light. When you turn it off it loses you.” Kali pointed the way. Once you’re down there, the machinery that operates the gadgets in the temple is to your left. That’s where I trapped the croc. The way out is to the right. “Alright,” Alec said loud enough for all to hear. “Once I’m in, give me one minute. If it’s down there, I’m either going to kill it or draw it away. The rest of you get in there and get to the other side. I’ll be along soon. Don’t wait for me. We’re running short on time.” Alec checked his watch. “Edmond, I wonder if you’d take my pack with you and leave it for me on the other side.” “Consider it done my boy.” “Be careful son.” Jackson patted Alec on the shoulder. “My grandchild is going to need his father around.” “Don’t worry, I’ll be back. Start counting to sixty and then go.” He looked straight at Kali, switched on his headlamp and jumped in. After thirty seconds he resurfaced. “I think it’s safe,” Alec said. He held the side of the stone opening. “I don’t see any...” Water splashed onto the stone floor. Ripples sloshed where Alec had been.

Chapter Twenty-Nine: The Evolution Stone

“ALEC!” KALI SCREAMED and pulled her sword, rushing for the opening. “Kali no!” Jackson grabbed her, straining to keep her from jumping in. “We have millions of lives at stake and no time to lose. We have to go now.” “You go, I can get Alec and you.” She fought to free herself. “Kali, we can’t do this without you. You know how to get us through this. We have to go.” Jackson hugged his daughter tight. “I’m sure he’ll make it, my dear. Keep your chin up.” Edmond patted Kali’s shoulder, settled Alec’s pack on his back and jumped into the water. “Valarius, you and Bashur go and make sure Edmond makes it alright. We’ll be right along.” “Do not delay my friend.” Valarius placed her hand on Jackson’s cheek and left it there for a moment, and then stepped off into the opening. Bashur scowled at Jackson before following her into the blackness below. “Kali, please, we have to go. If we wait any longer it may be too late.” When she faced her father, she nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. Without saying a word, she grabbed the idol, stuffed it in her pack and jumped in, followed by Jackson. The rasping of the sarcophagus closing echoed through the water. Kali swam ahead of her father when two explosions in quick succession startled her. She turned and swam toward the noise. Her father grabbed her shirt collar, pulling her back. She struggled against his grasp for a moment, then gave up and followed him. Surfacing on the other side, Edmond extended his hand, helping them out. “Valarius and Bashur went ahead of us, I warned them about the floor ahead.” “What about the floor ahead?” Jackson wiped the water from his face. “It’s booby-trapped,” Edmond said. “Nasty fall if you step in the wrong place. I

heard the explosions, do you think Alec made it?” “He has to make it.” Kali watched the water for any ripple as a sign Alec was coming. “He’ll be along,” Jackson said. He put his arm around her. “Right now we have about fifteen minutes before world war three breaks out.” Kali forced herself to follow Edmond and her father, glancing over her shoulder from time to time. Making their way to the stele, they ed Valarius and Bashur. Everyone stood, mesmerized by the pulsing light of the Evolution Stone. “We must choose between life and death.” Valarius ran her fingers across the script engraved in the stele. She turned to Jackson, extending her hand for him to her. “It’s actually a ruse.” Kali hoped to see Alec coming to them, but there was only darkness. “The choice for life activates a trap on the stairs. They’ll crush you when you try to climb them. The choice for death has the image of the stone and the goddess guarding it. It disables the trap.” “Thank you for telling us,” a deep, spite-filled voice growled. When they turned, Bashur glaring at them with his pistol drawn. “He speaks.” Edmond’s eyes brightened. “He hasn’t uttered a word the entire time. I didn’t know he could talk.” “I didn’t know he could speak English,” Jackson said. “I speak the language of the infidels,” Bashur said through gritted teeth. “Bashur, put the gun away, now! These are our friends,” Valarius ordered. She moved to take the gun out of his hand. He hit her across her face with the pistol. She stumbled back and fell. Jackson moved to help her, but Bashur aimed the pistol at him. “Stay away from her you dog! She should be mine. I risk my life for her every day for many years. Obey her every command. I wait for her to see my devotion.

Then you come, you demon, you steal her from me. You should die.” Bashur pulled the hammer back. Valarius leapt to her feet and tried to wrestle the gun from his hand. Two shots echoed through the cavern. Bashur pulled away, using the butt of the pistol, he struck her on top of her head. Valarius fell to the floor and didn’t move. Jackson gasped. Blood spread across Kali’s shirt from the bullet hole in her right shoulder and another in her upper arm. The room began to spin and she collapsed. The stain of crimson spread until it dripped onto the floor. Edmond and Jackson knelt to her side. Jackson pulled his bandanna from his pocket and pressed it hard against her shoulder. Kali cried out in anguish tried to push his hand away. He put his weight on it and she grimaced but finally relented. Edmond moved to put her head in his lap. Bashur stood over the unconscious Valarius, his eyes darted around the room. “You fool,” Edmond spit the words at him. “Kali the only one who could beat that monster up there.” Bashur’s eyes lit up. “I, Bashur, will defeat this thing, and then I will have whatever I wish.” With a smile spreading across his face, he picked up the idol and inserted it into the choice for death. He climbed the stairs, aiming his pistol at the image of the goddess. Jackson and Edmond turned their attention to Kali. “Jackson, I’ll take care of her. Her arm looks like it's broken but I'll try to stop the bleeding. We need to get her out of here and get medical attention,” Edmond said. “You have to stop Bashur, you can’t allow him to reach to the stone.” “Alright Edmond, keep the pressure on those wounds, I’ll be right back.” He hurried toward the stairs. Two shots rang out, then five more echoed through the cavern. Finally, a blood-curdling scream filled the air. Seconds later, Bashur rolled down the steps and landed on the floor. His limp body poured blood from the gaping wound in his chest. A trap door opened at the base of the stairs, and his lifeless body slid out of sight. “The fool.” Kali raised her head and then let it fall back into Edmond’s lap. “You can’t defeat that monster with a pistol.” “I taught you how to use a sword.” Jackson went to Kali’s pack and pulled her

swords free. “I guess it’s up to me to do this.” He spun the swords in each hand. “These are light.” He struck the corner of the stele and chunk of stone fell to the floor.” He examined the blade with his lips skewed. “Amazing. I taught you everything I know, Kitten. I should be able to handle this.” He smiled at Kali and then climbed the stairs. “Dad, wait,” She shouted. “It’s slow but it’s strong, it can’t think.” “I’ll be right back Kitten. Edmond, take good care of my daughter.” “She’s in good hands, Jackson.” Edmond turned his attention back to Kali, holding pressure on the wounds. Jackson reached the top of the stairs and took a deep breath. There, before the pulsing Stone, was the Babylonian goddess on her pedestal. A brilliant flash of light caused him to look away. When it subsided, the statue approached him. Holding two sickle swords, it swung both blades at him. He quickly blocked them with the katanas. He placed his foot on its abdomen and kicked it forcing it to stumble back. Before it could regain balance, he lashed out striking one head at the base. A deep gash opened in the neck of the wolf head. When the creature took a step toward him, the head snapped off, crashed onto the floor, and tumbled down the steps. The creature stopped its advance. Jackson attacked, feigning a wide slash with his right sword. When the idol moved to block it he ducked. Warding off the blow coming from his left side, and used his right sword to sever the idol’s right hand. The heavy bronze sword slammed to the floor and slid toward the far wall. Jackson smiled for a moment, thinking he could soon do away with this monster. Distracted, the creature grazed his right arm. He winced in pain and the sword flew out of his hand. He stood in shock for a half a second too long. The creature hit him in the stomach with the severed wrist. He stumbled back and gasped for air. His remaining sword fell from his grasp and slid down the steps. Unable to breathe he fell to his knees. The idol moved in for the kill, marching toward him. He attempted to catch his breath and get to his feet. The idol raised the remaining sword high above the heads, ready to impale him. He held up his hands to ward off the blow.

Multiple shots rang out from the top of the stairs. The left hand of the idol, still clinging to the sword, clattered to the floor. “Jackson, get back!” Alec aimed an M4A1 assault rifle with an M203 grenade launcher at the creature. His leg oozed blood around the makeshift bandage he’d made from his shirt. He cocked the grenade launcher and took aim. Jackson dove for the stairs and an explosion echoed with a deafening roar. Rubble littered the floor. Alec extended his hand to help Jackson to his feet. “Kali, have you seen her? How is she?” Jackson asked, breathless. “I checked on her, she’s conscious but she’s still bleeding out. Valarius is still out but she’s alive. Now, let’s get this over with.” He cast the rifle aside. “I’m going to go help my wife.” “What am I supposed to do?” Jackson called down the stairs. “You have to touch the stone”, Kali answered. “You have to wish for Iraq not to have nuclear missiles.” Jackson put his hand to his chin for a long moment. “No, that’s not the answer.” “What are you talking about? This will work Dad. We don’t have any time left to debate this. You have to do it.” Alec knelt beside Kali and took her hand. He took her wrist to check her pulse. “Whatever you do, you need to do it now. Kali has lost a lot of blood and that missile has to be close to its target.” Alec glanced at his watch. Jackson shook his head. “I have to undo Kali’s wish.” “No!” Kali shouted. “Please dad, listen to me. Wish the missiles away. I can’t lose you again.” Tears streamed down her cheeks, and she fought to get up. Alec and Edmond struggled to hold her down. “Kali, honey, lie still. You’re losing too much blood.” Alec kept his weight on her good shoulder, forcing her back down. Edmond pressed the bandage, now soaked with blood against her wound. “Kali, don’t you see?” Jackson asked. “Your wish is what caused this mess we’re

in. Millions of people are going to die or wish they were dead. If we ask for something else, what catastrophe is going to come from it?” “I don’t care. Please, do what I ask.” Kali forced her head up to face her father. “No, there’s only one way to fix this. I love you Kitten, but this is the way it has to be.” Jackson turned to walk to the Stone. “No! You can’t leave me again!” Kali fought against Edmond and Alec’s hold, but she couldn’t move under their combined weight. The only sound in the chamber was Kali’s mournful sobbing. “Nothing’s happening, what’s wrong?” Jackson called out. Everyone turned to the top of the stairs. Jackson reappeared with a puzzled look on his face. “I touched the stone and made my wish but nothing happened.” Kali stared at the ceiling a moment. “It’s not your wish to make.” She wiped the tears from her face. “What are you talking about? I thought anyone could make a wish on the Evolution Stone.” Jackson descended the steps and ed them. “You didn’t defeat the goddess, Alec did. He has to make the wish.” All eyes turned to Alec. His mouth dropped open. “You have to do it, son, You have to undo Kali’s wish.” “No!” She shouted “It’s the only way to set things right,” Jackson assured him. “Don’t, please, I’m begging you, Alec. Please don’t.” Kali’s eyes filled with tears again. She squeezed his hand so tightly she trembled. “What were things like before? How will that help?” Alec’s brow furrowed. “The U. S. and British military invaded Iraq and overthrew the government. The country was never a nuclear threat.” Kali choked out between sobs. “I know your father’s plane crashed. There’s something else you’re not telling

me.” Kali hesitated, biting her upper lip. “Tell me, what is it, Kali?” Alec pleaded. “There’s no more us,” she replied. Her lip trembled. She cringed from the pain. “Before my wish. You and I were enemies. You stole from inventors, I recovered what you took. A computer chip. You tried to kill me.” Alec shook his head. “No, it’s not possible. I could never to hurt you.” “You were a different person before.” “If I make this wish, we’re going to be enemies?” “Yes, that’s the way it was.” “No, no you won’t,” Edmond said. “Don’t you see? Kali, when you made your wish the last time. You and I were the only ones whose memories didn’t change with the new timeline. Alec’s memories won't won’t be affected by his wish either.” Edmond checked his watch. “You’re out of time Alec. You need to do this now.” “Wait a minute.” Alec’s eyes glazed for a moment. “Why is time a problem? Even if the missile detonates, when I make this wish, this all goes away. There won’t be any missiles because they were never made.” “We can’t be sure Alec.” Jackson checked the time. “We have no idea what will happen with the change in the timeline. Gunter died in the previous one, but Kali’s wish didn’t change that. If those people die in this timeline, how do we know they don’t die in the new one? “How can that be?” Alec shrugged. “I don’t know, an earthquake, a comet, some other lunatic with a nuclear weapon. I don’t know the rules. Nobody knows the rules. What I do know is if we stop it before it happens then it won’t happen in the new timeline.” “But, what is going to happen?” Alec asked, his eyes wide. “I’ve spent my

whole life knowing what I wanted to do, but I’ve never been more confused. “What I do know is we have to save millions of innocent lives. Now go, hurry,” Kali said. She released his hand. Her eyes fluttered. “I’m so tired, so very tired.” Alec stood to face the pulsing light of the Evolution Stone, then turned to his wife. She smiled at him and nodded toward the stairs. Alec picked up his pack, slung it over his shoulder and climbed the steps. Jackson took his place by Kali’s side. “Hurry son. You can do this, it’s for the best.” “I don’t know what’s going to happen, Jackson.” “Whatever happens, it’s for the best. Everything will be as it should be,” Jackson said. He managed to smile, his own eyes red and wet. Kali smiled back at him, her eyelids drooping “Hurry Alec. Kali is getting weaker.” Alec took the stairs two at a time. When he reached the top, the glow of the Stone grew brighter. He lifted his arm, holding his palm out to shield his eyes and walked toward it. A wind blew through the cavern. The light from the stone seemed to swallow him whole. Alec shut his eyes and turned his head while he kept inching toward it. When he placed his hand on the stone, the howling wind grew in intensity until it was deafening. Light enveloped the cavern, stones flew through the air and shattered when they struck the walls. “What is happening?” Valarius stirred and came awake. Jackson pulled her to him. He pulled her to his chest and they huddled together with Edmond and Kali. Light engulfed them and everything turned white.

THE CAVERN WENT DARK, everyone was gone and the chamber grew silent. Silent, except for a faint beeping coming from the base of the Evolution Stone. Inside the pack Alec left behind, a timer counted down. 00:05 00:04 00:03 00:02 00:01 The explosion rocked the cavern and died away. When the smoke cleared the Evolution Stone was still intact, but the ground shook. Rocks groaned and stones fell from the ceiling. A deep rumble filled the air. Tons of rock crashed to the floor, filling the expanse with rubble. The statue of Labartu, Labasu, and Akhkhasu withstood the smaller stones, but the massive boulders raining down crushed it. The light from the Evolution Stone pulsed softly and then went dark.

Chapter Thirty: A New Beginning, Again?

THE RINGING TELEPHONE dragged Kali from her sleep. She winced in pain when she reached for it, her arm weighed down by the heavy cast along with the thick bandage on her shoulder. Devon rushed in to snatch the phone. “Hunter residence, Devon speaking... She’s here but she’s still in bed. No, she can’t be disturbed.” Kali waved to get his attention but when he ignored her, she pinched his leg. He yelped, placed his hand over the mouthpiece and glared down at her. “Who is it?” she mouthed silently. “It’s him!” He rolled his eyes. “It’s the fourth time he’s called this morning.” Kali wriggled her fingers for Devon to give her the phone. He shook his head. She motioned more urgently and pleaded with her eyes. He shook his head again, holding the phone away from her. Finally, she narrowed her eyes and snarled while knotting her good hand into a fist. Devon relented, handing the phone to her and walked away grumbling. Kali’s head fell onto the pillow and put the phone to her ear. “Hello.” “Thank goodness you’re alright,” Alec responded. “I’ve been worried sick about you. I’m driving to your house now. I should be there in a few minutes. Do you need to go to the hospital?” “I’m okay. It looks like I’ve already been to the hospital. I’m all bandaged up. My shoulder and arm are killing me. I’ve never been shot before.” Her bedside table held a prescription bottle and a glass of water. She made a mental note to take whatever drug it held when she hung up the phone. “According to the news this morning, you were shot late yesterday in an attempted bank robbery. How can that be? We were in the Evolution Stone chamber when you were shot. What in the blazes is going on?” Kali sighed. “ the club. Now you know how I’ve been feeling the past week. I believe it’s because the Evolution Stone changes the past. But, the circumstances of what happens in the stone chamber coincides with what

happens in the new timeline.” “Well, that’s clear as mud.” “The first time we were there, this awful little bastard stabbed Gunter in the back. I tried my best to save him but he’d lost too much blood. He died in the Stone chamber. The next day in the new timeline, the news reported he died from a stab wound in an attempted robbery.” “Well, my head is still swimming, I don’t know what to believe. I’ve never seen anything like what happened yesterday. A Babylonian goddess in the form of a thirty-foot crocodile. Another goddess comes to life in a statue, and an ancient asteroid that changes the past when you make a wish. But I have to say, it must have worked. There were no missiles, no nuclear detonation. What about your father?” “I...” Kali’s voice broke and her eyes welled with tears. “I don’t know. I can only guess he...” Kali’s chest heaved from sobbing. Alec waited a moment. “Honey, I’m sorry. I wish there had been another way. But, your dad was right, you know it don’t you?” Kali let out a deep sigh. “I did some checking,” Alec broke the silence. “After your father’s plane went down, they searched for weeks for miles around the crash site. Of the bodies recovered, none of them matched your father’s dental records.” “So, what are you saying?” “I’m saying it smells like a cover-up. I tried doing some checking with my sources, but I’m getting stonewalled so this must go pretty high up. I guess what I’m trying to say is don’t give up hope. He may not have died in the crash after all.” “You really think so?” Kali tried to calm herself. “It was just so wonderful to have him back again.” “Keep the faith honey, you never know, he might pop up again sometime when you least expect it.”

“How’s your leg?” “It hurts like hell where the croc grabbed me. Otherwise, I’m fine other than being completely exhausted. Do you do this kind of thing all the time?” “You mean escape psychopathic tribesmen, fight off supernatural creatures and confront the most powerful artifact known to man? No, never. That’s not what recovery work is all about. I’m done with the supernatural.” At least I hope I am. “I’ve been dying to find out, what happened with Tiamat, how did you get away? You had me worried sick.” “The croc grabbed my leg and drug me to the bottom. I’m not sure why, but it let me go, I guess it meant to swallow me whole. It had a maw like a subway tunnel. Anyway, when I got free I popped the pins on both grenades, tossed them into its mouth and swam for all I was worth. When I got out of the water I heard the gunshots.” “Where did you get an assault rifle with a grenade launcher?” “It was in my pack along with twenty pounds of C-four.” “What?” Kali sat up in bed. “I took it with us in case we had to do some demolition when we found the missiles. The Evolution Stone is gone. The news this morning said that a sinkhole formed near the ruins at Babylon. Even if the Stone somehow survived, the chamber must have caved in. That thing is too dangerous for anyone to use. And as far as I’m concerned, good riddance to it.” Kali plopped back onto her pillow and stared at the ceiling a moment. “You’re not mad at me are you?” Alec asked. “No, I know you’re right. It’s too much power for anyone to use. Besides, it cost Gunter his life and it nearly got you killed. It almost got me killed twice.” “Have you heard from Edmond?” “No, I’ll call him soon, but I’m sure he’s fine.”

“When you talk to him, tell him the next time I need a co-pilot, I’m calling him. Listen, Kali, there’s something else I need to know. What ? Are we still....” “Married?” Kali ired the rings she still wore on her left hand. “I don’t know, I think it’s up to you. I told you in the Stone chamber. In the other timeline, you were not a good person.” “I still can’t believe that!” “It’s true, you tried to kill me, three shots to the chest. It’s a good thing it was a hologram and not really me.” “But I could never hurt you. I want you to be my wife. If we’re not married, I want to marry you all over again.” Kali’s door opened and Alec marched in. Devon barged behind him protesting. Alec grabbed his shoulders, spun him around and shoved him out, then closed the door and locked it. “It’s alright Devon, I’ll be fine,” she shouted through the door. She thought she heard more grumbling fading down the hall. A broad smile spread across her face and her eyes sparkled. A warm feeling filled her when he strode to her side. She tried to sit up but flinched with the pain. Alec leaned over her and kissed her softly. He tried to pull away but her hand was wrapped around his neck. After a minute, Kali breathed deeply, took in the odor of sweet spice and moaned. Alec sat beside her and took her hand. “By the way, are you still... are we?” “Expecting? I don’t know.” Kali lifted the sheet and looked at her belly. She hadn’t been far enough along to be showing a baby bump. She thought about it for a moment and the answer came to her. “I have to go downstairs and ask Devon to cook some sausage.” “Wait... What? Did you say sausage?”

THE IRAQI DESERT NEAR Babylon A man stood outside his tent, covered in traditional desert attire, his face obscured by goggles and head-wrap. He supervised the activity below with great interest. A hastily erected tent barely covered a mobile missile-launching platform. Workers resembled a hive of bees while they dismantled it, carrying away the parts to stow them in storage containers. A ring of heavily armed soldiers and two battle tanks surrounded the entire operation, watchful for any disturbance. The warhead was carefully loaded into a Blackhawk helicopter. The rotors began to spin slowly at first and soon became a blur. The whine of the engine grew and it rose into the air. Two Harriers lifted off to accompany the chopper and creating a dust storm in their wake. Soon, the Blackhawk and its escort disappeared into the distance. A heavy hand clamped on Jackson’s shoulder making him jump. When he turned, his mouth dropped open and sheer joy welled in his chest. “Gunter? Oh my God, you’re alive!” Jackson threw his arms around him in a long hug. The big man stood speechless, then his bushy eyebrows knotted, and his lips drew into a thin line. “Of course I am alive. What are you talking about? Have you been smoking something?” He backed a step away from his friend. Jackson started to speak, stopped and thought a moment, then stammered and paused. “It was... It’s just that...I’m sorry, I was watching the missile being dismantled and you startled me.” “I just returned from scouting the ruins of Babylon. The missile launcher that was reported there has been moved. But, a sinkhole formed near the ancient city sometime last night. It confirms my theory that there are underground chambers under the ruins. I believe it should be investigated. There may be insurgents hiding underground.” Jackson stretched his arm to wrap it around Gunter’s broad shoulder and walked toward the tent behind them. “Gunter, soon, very soon, you and I need sit down over a few beers and have a long talk. We’ve got some catching up to do.”

“Jackson, are you sure you are alright? What is this catching up? We just spoke yesterday before I left with a squad to investigate the report on Babylon.” Jackson winked at Gunter. “Trust me, old friend. I have a story to tell you that you’ve waited a lifetime to hear.” Gunter turned away shaking his head. Jackson drew the tent flap back and went inside. Valarius awoke, moaned and attempted to sit up. Her hand went to her forehead and she ran it across the bandage wrapped around her head. Groaning loudly, she fell back onto her pillow. “Whoa, there young lady,” Jackson closed tent flap, leaving them in the shade. He placed his hand on her shoulder and ran the other over the large bump on her head. “Here, take this.” He handed her a capsule and a drink of water. “You’ve got a pretty nasty bump there, you need to rest.” She lifted her head, swallowed and rested back on the pillow. “Where am I?” She asked, placing the back of her hand on her forehead. “We’re not too far from Babylon.” He sat next to her on the cot and took her hand. “Bashur gave you a pretty good knock on the head. To make matters worse, you fell and hit your head on the stone floor. We need to get you to a hospital and get some scans done. Do you feel dizzy, disoriented? Are you nauseated?” “No, but my head pounds.” She shook her head. “Where is Bashur? I will kill him when I find him.” Valarius looked grim. “He’s dead, killed by the goddess of the underworld. She saved you the trouble. If it’s any consolation, he died a pretty grisly death.” “The last I , we were in the cavern with the Evolution Stone. How did we get to be here?” Valarius groaned and turned to look at him. “I’m a little puzzled myself. I woke up this morning in the tent here with you. What I believe happened is when Alec made his wish, the Evolution Stone changed the past to the way it was before Kali made her wish. I’ve been going through my notes while you were sleeping. According to them, my government faked my death in a plane crash. You and I are on a classified mission and on communications blackout. The old regime had mobile weapons labs scattered

throughout the country. It’s our job to ferret them out and dismantle them. It looks like we’ve found five, but there’s more out there.” “What happened to your daughter, your friends?” “I’m not entirely sure, but I think they’ll be just fine. There’s been no thermonuclear war, so it looks like we were successful. “What of this Evolution Stone? It is a horrible thing. It should be destroyed.” “I’m not so sure Alec didn’t take care of that for us. According to my geologist, a sinkhole formed last night not too far from the ruins. There are no tectonic fault lines near here. Alec had a heavy pack he lugged around. He never told me what was in it. Good thing too, I’m sure he’d loaded it with high explosive. I would never have let him carry it around with us.” “If it is destroyed the world is better off, no one should be allowed to play god.” “I have to agree with you. The Stone is far too powerful to be of this earth. It’s a pity it can’t be studied.” “You Americans, you study this, study that, you and your studies. Good riddance to it.” Valarius dismissed the thought with a wave of her hand. “You’re right of course. Listen, Valarius, after we’ve found all the mobile weapons labs I need to go home and see my family again. I need to let them know that I didn’t die in that phony plane crash.” Valarius closed her eyes. “You are right. It is wrong of your country to make your family think you are dead. My heart shattered when I saw Kaseem dead. Kali must be grieving terribly.” “I know, I can’t bear the thought of hurting my children. But, I have to think about the greater good. Look at what happened. Kali’s wish to have me back threatened the lives of millions of innocent people. Now things have returned to the way they’re supposed to be. The old war-mongering regime is gone. The threat of a nuclear war is over. When this is all over, I need to go home and try to make it up to them. Valarius eyes welled with tears. One escaped and made its way down her cheek.

Jackson softly brushed it away, his fingers lingering on her soft skin. She leaned her face into his hand and sighed. He thought about what he’d just said for a moment. “What I meant to say was we, you and I, can go home to see my family.” Valarius smiled, looked at him with soft brown eyes and reached for his hand. THE END

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