The Traveler: The Hideaway, #2

By Mary Reason Theriot

A new nightmare is about to unfold for Jordan Sanders. The Hunter is finally being transported to Springport, Louisiana but someone has different plans. Evil lurks, waiting to set The Hunter free.

The Traveler seeks vengeance against those who tormented him in school. Death is too good for them. What he has planned is far worse.  Now that he has found a kindred spirit, they will be unstoppable.  

Special Agent Jackson O’Riordan has suspected that a serial killer has been eluding detection, traveling across the United States killing unsuspecting men and women. Now he fears that his suspicions are correct, and this same killer has taken on a partner.

As the body count rises, will this sadistic duo be stopped?  Or have they found the perfect Hideaway. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mary Reason Theriot
• Release date: Nov 13, 2017
• ISBN: 9781386783022

Mary Reason Theriot

A Louisiana native and have had the wonderful opportunity of living in various states during my husband's 20-year career in the United States Coast Guard. I have been happily married for over twenty years and am the proud mother of two wonderful children. My youngest encouraged me to begin writing this year. Until my diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis in 2001, I worked in the Legal Field. Writing is great therapy for my own personal fight against MS. I truly hope you enjoy reading my books as much as I have enjoyed writing them.

Book preview

Prologue

Motor homes make great vacation vehicles.  People travel across the country with the conveniences of home at their fingertips, never worrying with a hotel.  However, The Traveler transformed his into something that allowed him the opportunity to commit murder anywhere he liked.  His unique vehicle gave a whole new meaning to toy hauler.  It had become a portable torture chamber. 

His first kill had been unintentional and impetuous; a fortuitous accident that had revealed his course in life.  Over the years, he perfected his skill, learning to be innovative with his techniques.  He became superb at it, especially since he had no empathy towards people. 

The Traveler enjoyed the open road; wandering from town to town, enjoying a gypsy lifestyle. He never stayed in one place long and worked odd jobs here and there when he needed money.  The need to accumulate wealth never interested him; he never desired material things.  When it came time to leave, he merely drove off into the sunset with no worries.  Best of all, by the time someone discovered the body, he was long gone. 

At one time, rest stops had been the perfect hunting ground, and a convenient place to dispose of the bodies. Now he had to be careful since most had installed video surveillance and some had twenty-four hour security guards.  This forced him to prey on prostitutes, homeless, and runaways; what law enforcement agencies considered high risk victims.  But, they didn’t give him the same release.  Whatever tortures he did, they seemed to accept as their fate.  He preferred those that had a good life, who never believed something bad could happen to them.  It gave him a thrill when they pleaded for their lives and showed emotion while being tortured.  Watching as the life drained from their eyes brought him the rush he sought.  With the prostitutes, he was denied that rush.

Over the years, The Traveler became aware of the various stages associated with torturing someone to death.  The first stage was fear, which could be seen in the victim’s eyes.  Next came defiance, when they attempted to fight the inevitable.  Then despair, this one brought him such jubilance, when the victim realized he held their fate in his hands and there was no chance of escape.  Once the victim realized there was no hope of survival, the next stage began - they pleaded for death to end their suffering.  Of course, his revered stage was the last - death. 

The Traveler pulled into a truck stop to grab a quick bite to eat.  While waiting for his food, a news story piqued his interest, regarding a little town named Hope, Louisiana.

When he heard that David Thorguson would be transferred from the small jail in Hope to Springport Prison in two days, a dangerous plan began to take form.  It could be risky to bring in a partner.  However, a playmate would make the game he had in mind more interesting. 

Chapter 1

The Traveler researched  which route the transport van would most likely take. It would be such a pleasure to share his accomplishments with someone who would appreciate his handiwork. Plus, once freed, David Thorguson would be forever in The Traveler's debt. Finally, someone would look up at him with awe, and not down on him with disdain.

The Traveler grew up in the backwoods of West Virginia, where his childhood had been one big nightmare.  His dad did everything he could to make ends meet for his family, including working several jobs. Even with that, there never seemed to be enough money. Of course, it didn’t help that his dad drank most of it away on Friday nights. His mom tried her hardest to keep her children clothed and fed.  But with barely enough money to scrape by, the hateful kids at school constantly bullied and teased him about his pieced together clothes and his shoes that were held together with glue and tape. The Traveler dreamed of ways his tormentors should pay for their cruelty. They probably still lived in the lap of luxury, harassing and humiliating those they could.  Their offspring may even be the same way.  Perhaps with David's help, he could hand out some much needed justice. He wanted to make the people of Lake Hamilton pay, and David would know how to accomplish this. After all, he terrorized Hope for months and eluded capture. 

HE POPPED THE HOOD to the RV. Feigning a broken down vehicle was easier than attempting a rear end accident.  He didn't want to draw attention, and damage to either vehicle could do just that.  By the time Springport Prison realized their prisoner hadn’t arrived, they would have a few hours head start.

While waiting, he watched as the oppressive heat radiated from the blacktop in shimmering waves.  The Traveler missed the cooler weather of the northern states. If not for David, he would have avoided Louisiana altogether. He was on a mission though, one that made this inconvenience worthwhile. 

The Traveler stepped out onto the road, with his arms waving, when he saw the approaching prison van.  This forced the guard to stop for him - it was either stop or hit a pedestrian.

Thank you for stopping.  I was beginning to wonder how long I would be out here. My RV broke down, and there is no signal for my cell at all.

I'm sorry, but the only assistance I can provide is to radio in ...

The guard never completed his sentence.  Quickly reaching behind his back for his Taser gun, he subdued the guard.  He gathered the unconscious man and brought him into the special room in the RV. Once he undressed the guard; he restrained him as a present for his guest.

DEPUTY RICK OLIVIER found himself in a predicament when he came to.  The last thing he remembered was stopping to help a man on the side of the road.  If he managed to get out of this mess, the warden would chew his ass. 

He knew the prison would conduct an all-out manhunt when he didn't show up. But what was the reasoning behind this?  Who would want to set David Thorguson free?  Hopefully someone in Hope would notice something amiss and not hand the prisoner over to the imposter. 

He had drawn the short straw when it came to this pick up. He was biding his time with this job for an opening at the state trooper's academy. But until then, bills had to be paid.  Since his wife, Debbie, was due any day now with their first child, he also needed the insurance.  He never considered something like this happening. 

As he tried to free his hands, he realized that the handcuffs were too tight. A shiver of fear ran through his body when he thought about the things that could happen to him.

Chapter 2

The Traveler didn’t have much time to convince David he was here to help him as he pulled the transport van off the road.  He hoped that by giving David the guard, he would realize he was here to free David from the hell he had been forced to live this past year.

After ensuring the van was hidden from the road, he stepped out of the vehicle and unlocked the door.  Relax my friend, I am here to help you, but we have to hurry.  I want to be well on our way before anyone realizes that you have escaped.

As he removed the shackles from David’s wrists, he continued to explain. I am a fellow brother, and I am here to help you but we must hurry.  My RV is hidden behind the van.  To show you my support I have a gift for you.  But again, I must stress that we hurry.

When David went to lurch for him, The Traveler quickly pulled out the knife he had kept tucked in the back of his waistband.  I don’t want to hurt you, but we must leave quickly.  I will explain everything while we are on the road.  Smiling, he continued to explain, You must have certain hungers which need to be met, and I hope what I have waiting will curb your appetite.

David’s curiosity must have gotten the better of him, because he visibly relaxed and followed The Traveler out of the van. 

The Traveler quickly unlocked the RV’s side door, and ushered David inside.  Come inside and let me show you what I have for you. 

He could feel David as he peered over his shoulder as he opened the hidden door. I know you prefer women, but he should help satisfy your appetite for now. 

At the sight of the two men, the guard began fighting against his restraints.  Once we are on the road, you are more than welcome to quench any desires you may have, but I do believe we should become better acquainted first. 

One look at David and The Traveler knew he was anxious to kill.  He had that look in his eyes - one of a predator.  A man with no pity, remorse, or compassion for others. Yes, David may indeed be just like him.

Closing the bedroom door, The Traveler stated, He will be fine back here for now.  Let’s get this journey started and leave Louisiana quickly my friend.  Holding out his hand, he introduced himself, I am called The Traveler.

"It’s nice to meet you, mon ami.  I’m still unsure why you helped me escape, though."

As they fastened their seatbelts, The Traveler laughingly stated. Let’s just say that we are kindred spirits.

The Traveler watched as David scrutinized him.  I take it you aren’t a cop then? David asked.

No, I am not a cop.

So, who are you?

I am but a simple traveler who enjoys the countryside and the people associated with it.  Glancing over at David as he eased the RV onto the road he added, As I said, I am the same as you.

Same as me, huh?

Well, actually I may be a little wiser than you in some ways.  I prefer to keep my talents hidden.

David nodded as he looked around. Hmmm.  Well, just what is it that you do?

For work, I take an odd job here and there when I need money.  Most of the time I simply take money from my victims.  I grew up poor, so money has never been important to me.  I learned the hard way what it was like to go without.

David looked over at The Traveler and asked, And why did you set me free? 

You and I are very much alike; solitary creatures.  I have never told another living soul about my secret life.  I never met anyone else who I could share my exploits with.  I have been doing this for quite some time and before you, I never met another  hunter.

The Traveler could tell that David was intrigued.  He had not been lying when he said he had never talked about his secret desires before, except of course with his victims and that was only done to terrify them. 

So did you free me so that you had someone to swap stories with?

Shaking his head The Traveler replied, No, I believed it was a true shame that someone with your talents would be put away for good.  There is so much that we can teach each other.

David let out a laugh. You honestly think that you can teach me something?

Well, I haven’t been caught.

"And just how have you managed that, mon ami?"

Well, as you know, bleach destroys DNA, and I have disposed of several bodies in water.  The water helps wash away any remaining trace evidence and if the bodies are found, it is difficult to pinpoint the actual disposal site.  But mostly it is because I never stay in one place long.  By the time the body is discovered, I am long gone.

And do you have proof of these so called ‘victims’?

Living in an RV it is hard to keep trophies, lack of space and all.  Besides, very few prostitutes carry IDs but I have kept an occasional license and such.

What about videotapes?

Shaking his head, The Traveler answered, No, I never invested in the equipment to do that.

Ah, but when you record your ministrations it helps you to relive the event whenever you wish.  Memories have a tendency to fade away.

David looked back to the closed door saying, Speaking of memories fading away.  It has been a while since I felt the warmth of blood on my hands, would it be possible to pay a little visit to your guest?

The Traveler gave him a large grin. By all means, please enjoy yourself.  We can always share the next victim.  As David headed back, The Traveler asked, Would you please leave the door open so that I can listen to his screams as I drive though?

"Mais oui, mon ami.  That I can do."

The sounds coming from the prison guard as David released his pent up desires was pure music to The Traveler’s ears.  Yes, this may just turn out to be a perfect friendship.

OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS, they slowly formed a brotherly bond, The Traveler decided to reveal his trophies to David.  This helped prove to David that The Traveler did indeed share the same passion as him, just not quite at the same level yet.   

One night, The Traveler divulged some of the harassment he endured growing up.  As they made their plans for retribution, they agreed that it would be better if The Traveler drove during the day and David at night.  Although David was indeed grateful to be free, he had yet to show a complete trust in The Traveler. 

While The Traveler talked about his childhood, all David talked about was the various ways he wanted to kill.  But then again, that was understandable - he’d had a year to do nothing but dream of things he could be doing. 

As David thought about the havoc they were about to release on the unsuspecting victims, he patted The Traveler’s shoulder, "Mon ami, call me by my trade name, The Hunter.  After all, we are partners in crime now."

Chapter 3

The stifling heat and one hundred percent humidity confirmed that this was a typical summer day in Louisiana.  Sheriff Jordan Hamilton was ecstatic that the transfer was complete and that David Thorguson would be Springport Prison’s problem. However, without this case Alex Hamilton would not be part of her life. Two years ago, Jordan had been a detective with the Hope Police Department and she never suspected that her life would turn out like this.  She always dreamed of being sheriff, but never considered that it would come to fruition.

While writing his book on David Thorguson, Alex had discovered a hidden passion in himself. The publisher anticipated the book would hit the bestseller list in record time. He ascertained the tranquility of Hope brought him the inspiration to write. Jordan was thankful that he decided to write, instead of rushing back to the FBI.  He still consulted on cases but he could be here with her. 

She looked up from the paperwork and noticed Detective Johnson approaching. Sheriff, Springport Prison just called. They want to know when they can expect the prisoner.

Worried, she replied, They should have been there hours ago.  Where could they be?

I informed the Warden what time the van left.  Should we dispatch a patrol car to see if the van had problems?

If there had been a problem, the guard would have radioed in. This is something else.  Send Deputies Andrews and Williams, and you and I will also take a ride. The last thing we need is an escaped prisoner on our hands, especially David Thorguson.  There is no way we want him back out terrorizing more women.

Before leaving the office, Jordan called the Warden personally.  Warden Russo, it's Sheriff Hamilton over in Hope.  How well do you know this guard?  Is he trustworthy?

Sheriff.  Deputy Olivier is what we call a short timer; only working here until he is accepted into the state trooper's academy. He has previous military experience, Army I believe.  He's been with us less than a year, but there have been no problems with his work. I don’t see him running off with the prisoner, if that's what you are asking. For some reason, the GPS isn't working on the van and he isn't answering the radio or his cell phone. I just sent out two guards to look for him.

I dispatched officers as well.  Detective Johnson and I are also going to take a ride. It never hurts to have extra eyes out there looking. This is one prisoner we don’t want to escape.

Damn it!  I never counted on encountering problems with just one prisoner.

You should always expect the unexpected with Thorguson, Jordan replied.

IT DIDN’T TAKE LONG for a multi-jurisdictional task force to be organized.  Jordan quickly addressed everyone, The individual we are looking for is cool and calculating; he planned this escape out carefully. David Thorguson and his accomplice have at least a four hour head start on us.  From the tire tracks found near the abandoned transport van, preliminary reports indicate that the accomplice may be driving a motor home.  As it stands, roadblocks have been initiated, and all vehicles are being searched, but more attention is being paid to motor homes.  These two may have already left the state.  If that is the case, it will complicate the search.  I am calling in the FBI for assistance as soon as this meeting is over.  However, I want these two caught before the feds arrive.

Chapter 4

Special Agent Jackson O’Riordan had been with the FBI for twenty years and assigned to the Behavioral Analysis Unit, BAU, for the last eighteen.  He had seen plenty of homicides around the United States and, with experience, he learned to ascertain just from the crime scenes if they were dealing with a serial killer or not. 

Recently, several cases involving the sexual orifices being super glued had caught his attention.  He had begun to suspect that a serial killer had been eluding detection for quite some time.  This elusive killer traveled across the United States and killed mainly high risk men and women.  He also found it highly unusual that none of the