Annihilators

By Brian White

Fifteen years have passed since Joyce, Penny, and Fugi defeated Earl but they’ve kept in touch. Fugi continued her searches for an operation to reverse the sex-change, while Penny and Joyce
are happily married with good careers. Joyce is living a blissful life she never dreamt possible.
All of that is about to change.

Each of the fifteen years they’ve gathered in Cleveland Ohio to celebrate their victory.
Unbeknownst to them terrible forces have been watching and plotting revenge on a massive
scale, with a special interest in “The American Musketeers”. They view the United States as their
enemy, one that must be annihilated. With an improved version of the character assassinating
drug from Earl, they’ve amassed an army more machine than human. Among their inductees are
US Armed Forces personnel unaware they are about to become pawns in a diabolical scheme. “It
commences with the repossession of three faulty units.”

• Language: English
• Publisher: Brian White
• Release date: Jan 15, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301976874

Book preview

ANNIHILATORS

Switcher Sequel

Brian White

Copyright 2004, 2013 Brian White

All Rights Reserved

Smashwords Edition

I dedicate this book to the memory of my mother who departed this life March 18th, 2000, Doris B White. The poem One Last Time was written on Mother’s Day of the same year. Here’s to you mom; I miss you.

ONE LAST TIME

Phone talk was over, denial sets in,

news of the worst, time seems to end.

Mother has passed, without a warn,

insides asunder and hurting and torn.

Never again to hear her sweet talk,

nor offer help while she struggles to walk.

If only he'd heard between all the line,

but now it's too late, Earth claims her mine.

Grief-stricken soul feels so much remorse,

yet through it all her voice sounds so hoarse.

Sleep my dear son and soon you shall see,

what will become of you that has to me.

Dream opens doors, to be free as a bird,

speech becomes symbols and then into word.

Fret not nor weep over my current rhyme,

for I shall come visit you one last time.

Eyes growing weary, alert fades away,

memories flourish, mind held at bay.

There she is, all resplendent and young,

smiling grandly, what song has she sung?

A tune that tickles and calms and eases,

sweet soothing voice, one that always pleases.

Now you see how my days are all spent,

said she while holding her arms out unbent.

Moving like wind, he rushes embracing,

hugging her tightly, heart now is racing.

Pulling away, no please stop don't go,

for I love your kind touch, and miss you so.

I'll always be with you in dream and awake,

said she moving closer, a kiss he did take.

Tears clouding vision blurred her take of leave,

dreamscape has ended, time now to weave.

Sorrow still present yet different somehow,

he knows his mother is with him right now.

And when he thinks of that song and its rhyme,

his mother will visit him one last time.

Foreword

SWITCHER became a work of outrage. What I mean is the motivation for the book was created when I observed the appalling way women were treated in some parts of the world. Thus I wrote a story about women who defeated evil in the world if just a tiny bit. ANNIHILATORS has an entirely different motivation; depression.

To me as I was writing, my characters seemed to come alive. Joyce, Penny, Fugi, even Earl Fred Hank and Mark, were all as real to me as my living family. That looks crazy I know, but it’s true. As SWITCHER was drawing to a close, I realized the adventurous part was also coming to an end. It felt like dear friends were dying. I wonder if other authors have experienced this strange sensation.

It was starting to consume me. I didn’t want to do much other than wallow in misery. My wife was growing concerned even though I did my best to conceal my sorrow. Suddenly it came to me. Why does it have to end? This is my story. I hold absolute power over how and when it all concludes. My spirits instantly lifted. One last chapter was added to SWITCHER and thus ANNIHILATORS was born. Even though ANNIHILATORS begins where SWITCHER left off, this is not a continuation but a brand new adventure. I hope you enjoy it.

Brian B White

CHAPTER 1: PISAGUA, CHILE

FOUR MONTHS FOLLOWING THE FALL OF BARKER EXPORTS

Shifting tropical breezes entered the open bungalow window, blowing the gauze curtain across the blaring television screen. Both seated viewers were so engrossed in the show, the sudden appearance of the drape created a surprised response. The younger of the two angrily rose to tear it from the rod. Breaking curtain rings created a staccato of firecracker-like pops just as the star of the show announced their reason for watching.

And here they are America, no formal introduction required. By now their name’s a household word; their faces recognized everywhere. Please give a rousing Tomorrow Show welcome for Joyce Jackson, Penny Carver, and Cara Ishaya.

Incredible applause and whistles sounded as the three women walked onstage. Jackson’s happy appearance drew an intense expression of hatred on the young man’s face. The elder man watched Ishaya with keen interest, his hand rubbing his chin while studying her moves. Once seated, the applause subsided to where the emcee could speak.

Before we begin, I have an announcement. A secret ballot was cast among law enforcement officials, news reporters, and talk show hosts. Out of a possible nine choices, one received an astonishing sixty percent of the votes. Because of your selfless acts of heroism in the face of grave danger, it is my deep honor to inform you from this day forward you shall be known as The American Musketeers!

Turn it off, the older man said as applause filled the room.

Slowly the younger man turned toward his elder, a look of disbelief forming. Clapping coming from the TV now seemed to mock him, forcing his rage to grow like an uncontrolled inferno.

We went to one HELL of a lot of trouble arranging to watch this show, and right after the beginning you want to turn it off?

The old man shook his head while rising, walking to the set that still had applause sounding. With a single push of his index finger, he ended the images coming from what was once but now no more his country. Then he faced his companion, his expression changing to such a horrifying appearance the younger man looked sheepishly away.

I’ve seen what I wanted to see, he said. Watching any more would only instigate foolish acts. Have you heard from Osaka?

How can you act so nonchalantly? The young man asked, shaking his head while slowly returning the glare. We have been chased out of our homes by those three. I want to send them straight to hell, and all you’re interested in is some asinine Jap with more money than common sense.

A grin replaced the grimace on the old man’s face, scaring the younger man more than before. He knew the agonies his aging employer could inflict being an accomplice to the most recent experiments. That knowledge brought forth trembling in all limbs.

First off relax, the old man said. I need you Jim; will always need you. Secondly since the United States can’t be reasoned with, they must be dealt with. That’s where the, quote, asinine Jap with more money than common sense, unquote, comes in. He believes he’s investing in a new cure-all drug. That’ll give us the cover we need.

In all the time they’d worked together, Jim Hofheimer had always admired Doctor Adolph Heidenreich’s brilliance. He’d skillfully achieved breakthroughs in medicines others said was impossible. Now Jim has growing concern Doc is losing his mind. They are fugitives on the run from a relentless pursuer, having to continually look over their shoulders waiting for the inevitable word of Freeze! to reach their ears. As a look of worried puzzlement formed, Jim slowly turned toward the window with missing curtain.

You’re talking riddles, Jim said. Cover to do what?

Chuckling grabbed Jim’s attention as Doc casually returned to his chair.

While you were busy finding our recent accommodations, which by the way is an excellent choice, I was contacting a selected few of Earl’s former business associates in the Middle East. They despise the United States and are willing to consider my proposals. For now I insist you be patient. Our time will come.

Four months ago that insistence would’ve been enough for Jim. Times are different. Jim wants more than idle promises and inactivity.

Would you mind elaborating on your plans to deal with the United States?

Doc shook his head slowly, looking toward the door.

Do you trust me? He asked.

If I didn’t I wouldn’t be here now.

Distant thunder sounded, making Jim jump from his seat. It closely resembled the sounds of civil war they’d passed through on their way to this haven. Local officials guaranteed safety as long as the money flowed, of which there was abundance. Should the locals rise in arms against the tyranny they’re living under, chances are their safe place would vanish. Doc had a gentle smile on his face as he looked toward him, obviously trying to calm his frazzled nerves.

If all goes well, we’ll be leaving here within six months, Doc said. That’s why I need you to focus on the Japanese investor while I work the other part. Don’t underestimate Tokeyama Osaka. If he smells a set-up, he’ll be gone so fast you won’t see the door close. Sell him on our age restoration drug. If you’re thinking too far ahead, all my plans will crumble. Can you do that for me?

By working beside Doc and running errands he thought pointless, he’d seen miracles occur before his eyes. Organs badly wounded grew replacements with the recipient remaining alive long enough to enjoy the benefits, and wrinkles had literally vanished from the inside on elderly people. Gradually Jim’s concerns faded, a look of relief filling his features as he nodded. Doc reached over to pat his knee, and then rose walking toward the door.

"Would you mind if I take care of the American Musketeers?" Jim asked with a sneer in his voice.

That stopped Doc’s walking but did not draw his attention.

They are to be left alone for now. Fugi is a walking billboard for my female formula success, and the blonde somehow overcame the trauma of raw neural Peptydic-enzyme ingestion. I know she fell victim; watched a convincing demonstration. The redhead might also prove of value down the road.

If it had been any other topic that command would’ve been satisfactory. After watching the television show, albeit a small part, Jim wanted revenge against those he saw as being responsible for the hardships he now faced.

Again you’re talking riddles, Jim said. What possible good can come from their continued living?

My instincts are telling me to leave them alone for now, he said while facing Jim. When the time is right we’ll bring them all in.

The gentle smile returned to Doc’s face.

There is no antidote to the brain damage inflicted by unmetered doses, Doc said. Killing them before I have a chance to analyze why the uh, Jackson woman recovered when none who fell to the effects before her would be foolish. Simple dissection would be pointless. We need her alive but have no way to contain her without risk of injury. I’m certain the answer will be found through experimentation with new subjects, but I believe in redundancy and she could be a potential cure. Let them live in peace but keep an eye on them. In fact, we need all of them to believe we’re dead so their guard will be down. And then as I said, when the time is right we’ll bring them in. His smile dropped to a sinister appearance. Is that perfectly understood?

Chills coursed along Jim’s spine as he slowly looked at the wall next to Doc.

Yes sir.

CHAPTER 2

FIFTEEN YEARS LATER

ATLANTIC HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER’S LOUNGE, SAVANNAH GEORGIA

4:32 P.M. WEDNESDAY

A smile was on my face as I rose from the chair. All the reminiscing made me feel twenty-two again. I was happy as I opened the door and started down the hall but when I was about fifteen feet from my room a shadow crossed the threshold. My movements halted when a young man backed out of the doorway.

Excuse me, can I help you? I asked.

He turned from my voice and started running. Instincts kicked in as I set off after him. His youth combined with the wrong shoes on my feet made his getaway complete. When I reached the corner he’d turned, he was nowhere to be seen and the hall was once again quiet.

First I’ll see what damage you did and then call the cops.

Anger built as my teeth gritted together and I stomped back to the room. Of all the timing for a vandal to strike this has to be the worst. In no way am I going to permit it to interfere with my weekend!

Enragement morphed into fear as I reached the entrance, my legs refused to advance. The test papers on the desk were now in my seat rolled out to where I could see, and on the desk rested a yellowed envelope with one line for the recipient’s mailing address. No one else was in the room, giving me the fortitude to enter and slowly approach the mystery document. What I saw chilled the marrow in my bones.

The return address was Barker Exports Cleveland Ohio, addressed to BL Seven Forty-Two. My hands started shaking as I removed the single paper inside.

In simple type it read Do you remember us? We remember you very well. Bet you thought it was over. You were wrong. That was only the preliminaries, now comes the main event fifteen years in the making. It commences with the repossession of three faulty units. See you soon, seven forty-two.

My grip loosened on the paper, allowing it to leisurely float like a leaf to the floor. Disbelief in this actually happening made it all feel dreamlike and I would soon awaken in a cold sweat. This cannot be.

Think Joyce; out of all the monsters from Barker Exports, only one had children. They were too young when their father was killed to successfully follow me over the years. I’m sure it can’t be Fred’s offspring, which leaves one of two possibilities.

Either Doc is still alive seeking vengeance, or this is a sick joke. If it was Doc, why’d his henchman run when I stumbled on him? The school is virtually deserted and murder would probably go unnoticed until much later tonight. That leaves this a bastard’s idea of a sick joke. Since he knew when to approach my room, he’s been watching me. And if he's been watching my habits, that means; oh dear God!

Steve, I said aloud while turning toward the door.

No sounds other than my running feet came from the halls. Anxiety built to the point I was fearful of a vein exploding. With a monumental shove against the lounge door that caused the handle to loudly impact the wall, I was within moments dialing my home number.

One ring ended; come on Steve, for the love of God hurry. Two; please be all right my love. Our children depend on what you do next. Three and he hasn’t answered. Should I call the police? Finally the phone was lifted from the cradle.

Hello? He asked.

His tone sounds calm and indifferent. It’s all right for now. Air I’d been unaware of holding explosively released as I sighed relief.

Oh thank God, I answered. Steve I need you to listen closely. There’s no time for questions. You must take the children away from there. Visit your parents; anything. When you’re settled call me here. Our home isn’t safe. I’ll explain it all later.

Silence; why won’t he say something?

Talk to me Steve. You’re scaring me.

Strange, almost mechanized chuckling sounds came over the phone. What in the world is going on?

Hello my lovely Joyce, a voice altered by a mechanical device said. Or should I say BL seven forty-two?

Oh God I’m too late. They’re in my home. No, wait; Steve sounded too calm. Whoever this is tapped into the phone line.

Who are you?

Your guardian angel, he said followed by more chuckling.

So this is a joke. I’ll play along and see if I can’t get enough information to send the cops for an arrest.

Where are you?

Close to you.

Now I’m getting angry. With my teeth gritted together, a snarl formed on my face.

You listen to me you sick bastard. Leave me alone. I’ve done nothing to you. If you enter my room again, I’ll kick you so hard you’ll have to unbutton your shirt to pee.

More laughter sounded, causing a rage to build I haven’t felt in many years.

My job with you is nearly done, he said. Yours is only beginning. Those kids of yours are really cute. I’d hate for anything to happen to them.

Terror instantly replaced fury. My hands started shaking as I dropped into the seat. I have no way to warn Steve before he could act. If only I’d listened to Steve and bought a cell phone. As long as I keep this jerk on the phone, he can’t do anything. Please Steve, call the police. Surely you know something’s amiss by the way we were cut off.

Why are you doing this? I asked.

To make sure you do exactly as I say.

Keep him talking.

And what would that be?

A strange sound like a deep breath exhaled from an engine came from his end.

To do what you’ve been planning all along, but with a slight change in the arrangements. You are to go to Cleveland, alone. Your husband must not attend nor can you tell him why.

My head started shaking no before I replied.

He’d never go along with that.

Clucking sounds that I assume came from his tongue sounded for a moment.

That doesn’t sound like the woman who fearlessly brought down The Eraser. To prove we mean business, pick two of your children to survive.

Maternal instincts kicked in. My eyelids started quivering, mouth formed a snarl, and free hand developed into a rage-trembling fist searching for something to smash.

If you so much as LOOK at my children, I will personally hunt you down and make you pay! By the time I’m finished, you’ll wish you’d NEVER been born!

Now that’s the spirit I was hoping to hear, yet you assume too much. Let me pose a query, what makes you think I’m alone in this?

Steve’s questioning about Penny sounding afraid while mentioning a doctor rose to the front of my mind. Anger turned into surrender.

If I do as you say, you’ll leave my family alone?

My dear, that’s why I called myself your guardian angel; I’m giving you the chance to avoid grief. We could have taken out any or all of your children by now, but I held everybody at bay until you knew the stakes. We have no interest in them. You have my assurance nothing will happen to your family as long as you go to Cleveland alone.

My eyes closed briefly, tears forming along the edges.

I’ll do it, I said while opening my eyes.

We’ll be watching, he said followed by a dial tone.

Is this really happening? Why after all these years would they seek revenge? Are his threats legitimate?

Someone placed that note on my desk and most assuredly didn’t have time to reach a location where he could intercept my phone call. That means there’s at least two at work, possibly more. For the sake of my family I must do as he said.

Sadness over leaving my children began creeping in. I’ll not be here to see them grow. Holly’s first day of school will come around without me being there to encourage her. Jonathan’s first date will be missed, and Heather’s Prom will go on without me. Steve will be left a young widower. I wonder how long it’ll take them to find out what became of me.

Snap out of it. If I’m to convince Steve I need to go alone this year, I have to put on an acting performance unlike any before. Yes, I can do this convincingly. I’d better call Steve just to put his mind at ease, and make certain nothing has happened.

As I rose from the seat to disconnect the open line, movement caught the corner of my eye. The door was slowly opening. I thought they wanted to wait until I reached Cleveland.

POLICE, a voice said, COME OUT WITH YOUR HANDS WHERE I CAN SEE THEM!

Steve must have called the law once we were disconnected. Okay, it’s time to start acting. First I must appear surprised to see him.

It’s okay officer, I said. I teach here. My name is Joyce Dickerson. Is there a problem?

The door pushed open further. Slowly a uniformed policeman who looks to be in his fifties entered, gun held in hand pointed at the floor. One quick scan of the room followed before he looked at me with narrowing eyes.

We received a frantic emergency call from a Mister Steve Dickerson reporting his wife was in trouble, he said. Do you have any identification?

Forcing a grin I didn’t feel was next to impossible.

That’s Steve all the way, I said. Yes I have my driver’s license in my purse. Let me get it.

When I started reaching for my pocketbook, he backed away slightly raising his weapon.

It’s okay Jim, another officer said as he entered the room holding the letter from Barker Exports in a rubber-gloved hand. I recognize her.

That new cop looks to be in his twenties with the same build as the guy who ran from my room. Though I forced an expression of indifference while looking at him, I was studying his body language. There’s definitely something he’s excited about. Jim quickly looked at the new officer before returning his eyes to me. Then his gun lowered, finding its way back to his holster.

Why did you husband report you were in trouble when it appears like you’re only taking a break? Jim asked. Falsifying an emergency call is a serious offense.

My head starting shaking as I pointed at the letter the young cop was holding.

Though I doubt you’ll find this amusing, the timing is incredibly funny, I said. That letter was some jerk’s idea of a practical joke. This is what happened. I was returning to my room after calling my husband to let him know I was working late. A shadow crossed the doorway just as I neared. He ran off before I got to the door. After entering my room, I saw an envelope on my desk holding that letter. When I first read it, I panicked and called my husband telling him to pack up the kids. Somewhere in the middle of our conversation the phone went dead. It stayed that way for minutes, and while I tried calling him back, I realized how foolish I’d been. Whoever put that note on my desk has done his deed. Once that idiot’s heart calms after my hot pursuit, I’d bet he’ll get a kick out of how he scared me. Then just when the dial tone returned and I could let Steve know all was okay, you showed up. If you look at it from my husband’s perspective, he must’ve thought I was being held hostage or something and placed the call to you. As you can see, everything’s fine.

The young officer moved forward holding the letter out.

No ma’am, he said. Everything is not fine. I know who you are and what you went through years ago. That’s why I was able to recognize you now. This, what you call prank, could be the start of something far more sinister than you believe. Did you get a good look at the person who delivered it?

This guy must be in on it and is testing me. There’s no other logical reason why he’d draw such a conclusion unless he already knew. How’d he get to be a police officer with villainous ties?

All I saw was his back. He wore a black leather jacket and jeans, about your height and build, with short-cropped blond hair. It was probably a former student of mine that I flunked and was venting his frustrations.

That’s not much to go on, Jim said. Did you notice anything odd about him, like a limp, jewelry, tattoo, design on his jacket; anything that might narrow the search?

I came so close to asking the young officer to remove his cap it’s frightening. My head started shaking as I made an embarrassed expression rise to the surface.

Sorry, that’s all I saw.

Jim reached to his side removing the microphone attached to his sleeve and began speaking softly while moving away. The other officer walked close to me, watching my expressions as I observed his approach. He gently placed the letter on a nearby table, reaching behind his back.

Surely he’s not going to do something now? It took a great amount of inner-strength to stare at him without cringing. If I’m going out, I will not give him the pleasure of seeing me afraid. Jim finished talking, returning the mike to its original position just as the young cop brought his hand to the front.

His opened wallet was in hand. Jim faced us as the other cop removed a picture, holding it out for me to take. Total confusion hit my mind as I accepted it.

Frank, what’re you doing? Jim asked.

It was a photograph of a smiling man in his thirties. There’s something vaguely familiar about him, but I can’t quite place it. As I returned my attention to the young man, my eyes took on a perplexed expression.

Playing a hunch, Frank said without looking away. I know this is a long shot, but that’s a picture of my father who disappeared from North Carolina a little over fifteen years ago. A van painted flat black was seen near his last known whereabouts. Your initial reports about those who abducted you around the same time and town match the van’s description. His name is Bob Jameson. Do you recognize that picture?

Chills coursed down my spine as I made the connection. This is absolutely unbelievable. My eyes widened as I took a closer look at the photo. There is no mistake. The man in this picture is the same one Earl tortured and killed as punishment for me testing the sensors over my cell doorway. It felt like the room was starting to spin.

You do recognize him, Frank said. Can you tell me what happened?

How can I tell him his father died a senseless death? Tears started lining my eyes as I looked at his expectant face. He picked up on my growing sorrow, expression changing to disappointment. Before I could open my mouth, the door opened and Principal Anders stepped through. Surprise replaced grief for me.

Marty, what’re you doing here? I asked.

The police called. What’s going on?

Jim walked to Marty drawing all of our attentions, tapping his shoulder. Together they walked away, with Marty glancing at me a few times during their hushed discussion. It seems Jim wants me to tell his friend what I know. Frank faced me with dread in his eyes. I felt the same. It took a few moments for me to gather my thoughts.

I wish this wasn’t true, I said. You have to understand I worked very hard putting all of what happened back then aside. Had I not done so, I would’ve gone insane.

By this time, Jim had finished talking. The two of them returned nearby, looking at me while waiting for me to continue. Frank’s eyes fell to the floor.

The police showed hundreds of missing person’s pictures immediately after I was initially interviewed, none matched what I reported; until now.

Thoughts of my own upcoming fate flooded my mind, nearly making me stop. Then I realized; if I can help Frank with closure, in some small way I’ll have a victory before ultimate defeat. With that in mind I rose from the chair, walking to stand in front of him. He looked at me, tears now lining his eyes.

Your father died at the hands of cowards but his death was not in vain. It placed such a powerful drive in me I was able to defeat them. All of those responsible are now dead. I know that won’t bring him back; I’m so very sorry.

His mouth opened, and then closed as he turned from me to walk away. Jim and Marty moved between us.

I’m putting you on administrative leave until this blows over, Marty said.

That would make it more difficult for me to convince Steve everything is okay. He might demand I cancel my plans, or at the very least refuse to remain here while I go. I can’t let that happen.

This was only a prank Marty, I said. There’s no need to panic and besides, mid-terms are coming up. I can’t just abandon my classes.

Frank’s stare rose from the floor, Jim’s eyebrows rose, and Marty seemed irked. Suddenly the door swung open and Steve came dashing inside. His appearance was at first gravely concerned, but when he saw my calm look his gait slowed. Before he could speak, Marty held up his hand demanding to be heard.

I appreciate your dedication, he said just as Steve arrived by my side, but I can’t risk this being more than a joke. The police can protect you better if you stay at home. Officer Kelly has assured me they should be able to wrap this up in two or three days. For the duration of said investigation I’m giving you leave with pay, with the option to extend should things escalate.

Steve’s expression changed to deep worry again. My quick smile at him did not placate the obvious concern he felt.

This was just a joke coupled with a coincidental phone problem, I said. If you give in, the idiot wins. Look at it this way; if it was more, than why’d the perpetrator run when I nearly caught him?

A gasp came from Steve as his eyes widened. I reached out for his hand, which he accepted quickly. Marty shook his head while turning from me.

You could be right, Marty said. But I can’t chance the real possibility this is just the beginning of something. To do otherwise might place students at risk. He paused while glancing at me with a grin. Never turn down unexpected vacation. Our debate is closed. Gather your belongings from the room, leave, spend some time with your family. I’ll see you when this is over.

Then he left through the door. Just like that I was on paid suspension. Though I truly appreciate the opportunity spending all my remaining time with my children, it’s now going to be more difficult to convince Steve I’ll be all right.

Mrs. Dickerson, Officer Kelly said, in order to better protect you I must ask you stay close to your home for now. We can assign an officer to protect you until this is solved.

No problem officer, Steve said. Thank you for your assistance.

Now my battle begins. I forced a look of anger as I first glared at Steve, and then Kelly.

Slow down, I said; my fifteenth annual reunion celebrating our victory over Barker Exports is this weekend. I haven’t missed one yet and I’m not about to miss one now!

Jameson faced me, a look of doubt on his face. Kelly simply shook his head while briefly glancing at Steve, and then me. Steve released my hand, turning to where he was standing directly in front of me.

Sweetheart, I think under the circumstances we should cancel our plans.

A slight change yes, I said, but I refuse to allow some bastard to have the pleasure of believing he scared me into a shell.

Do you think that’s wise? Jameson asked while pointing at the letter. I mean don’t you find the timing of this letter to be a bit more than coincidental?

The look on Steve’s face indicated our line was disconnected before he heard about the letter. Rather than