Back at the safe house where Tiffany and Felina were guarding Aubrey, they were starting to get worried since they had not heard anything from us. Finally Catalina called and filled them in on what had happened and said the rest of the team would be there soon and to have certain things ready for them. They quickly got everything together and waited.

Meanwhile, in another secure location… “What is wrong Galyna?” asked Kristina. “I cannot get hold of anyone,” she said with a worried look, “I called Steve, Rock, Crystal and Kat, but nothing at all, no one answers.” “That does not sound good,” admitted Kristina, “try calling John, he would be next on the list.” “Um, would you like to try?” Galyna asked her.

“Protocol puts that in your hands Galyna,” she answered, “you can do it, you are our counselor.” “Thanks,” she said and she called John. “Hi Galyna,” he said, “I know something is wrong if you are calling, what is it?” “I need to talk with Steve, but he does not answer,” she told him, “this is super important.” “Steve is in surgery right now,” said John slowly, “he, Rock and Mac were seriously wounded.

Things did not go well going after Mr. Fenn. Guess I am in charge momentarily since Crystal and Kat are with Steve. We are heading over to see Joshua now.” “Pull over and stop,” she said and John did, along with the other 2 vans. “Okay, talk now,” he said, kind of worried now. “Sky is dying,” she began, “the virus started attacking again and Li Jing cannot stop it. Annelie and Tracy are also dying.”

“Whoa,” said John quietly, “that is heavy news.” Karin was sitting behind them, between Aasta and Catalina. “I can help!” she yelled, “in my bag, look in my wallet!” Catalina reached behind her and took the wallet out of the bag and handed it to Karin. Karin took out a piece of paper and handed it to Aari who was in front with John. “What is this?” he asked.

“It is the formula to kill off that virus,” said Karin, “I stole it from Andy one day last week, copied it and put the original back in his wallet while he showered. I was wanting to give it to Steve, but I waited too long…because I am a coward!” Meowr.=No, you not coward. Muffin tell me you brave human. Me know too, scared and coward not same.

Storm had been lying on Aasta’s lap when he spoke up. Aari gave the formula to Galyna. “Hopefully it will be in time, and all correct,” said Aari, “Li Jing should be able to tell.” “I will get it to her quickly,” said Galyna, “by the way, we are in hiding, location A1D7.” “Got it,” said John. Then Galyna signed off while John and the others just sat there for a bit without saying anything.

“Now to get Joshua!” said John and they sped off to that insurance office. They stopped just out of sight of the entrance and went charging in! The usual receptionist was not there however, but another one from one of the other companies in the building said that Joshua had just left 10 minutes ago with his bodyguards and said he was going home.

They went back to the van and started for Joshua’s home. “He will not be there,” said Karin, “when he leaves suddenly, it means going to his “other home”, which is above one of his clubs.” She then told them which one, but said it would be hard to sneak up on him there, there are security cameras everywhere. When they arrived a man was coming out.

“I know him,” said Miles, “he is the one hired to hit Steve, let me have him.” “He is yours,” said John. So he went walking towards the man. “Hey Silver,” said Miles, “did not expect you here.” “Hey Loon,” said Silver, “have not seen you in ages. Looking for a job?” “Could use one,” he answered, “heard a guy here was looking for people.”

“Yeah, scared as a rabbit,” laughed Silver, “hey, come with me, I was hired to hit a PI that is in hospital right now. We can get more money from this guy for you, no problem.” “I am with you on this one,” said Miles. But Silver did not see Miles take out his knife and soon Silver was dead. John helped Miles put him in a nearby dumpster.

Catalina had things ready and a small explosion cut the electricity to the building and in they went, after blasting open the door. Karin came along to take them to Joshua’s “home”. Two guards were in the hall outside his door and they were quickly taken care of. Another explosion opened the door and in everyone rushed, though Aasta and Karin stayed in the hall until it was safe.

Joshua had surrendered, much to the dismay of John who was hoping he would fight. Suddenly “Thwock!”, and Joshua fell to the floor. Meowr.=Oops, foot slip. John looked down at him frowning. “Well, accidents happen to the best of us,” he said finally…

To Be Continued.

©2023 Steve McLeod.