The Winn Horror Trilogy

By Jason M. Winn

The three horror stories included in this collection by Jason Winn will take you on a journey of horror that takes you out of your comfort zone and thrusts you into the cauldron of terror! These three disturbing stories of unrelenting horror will plague your mind with nightmares.

The Wages of Sin

Special Agent Lydia Bryant, along with an elite team of law enforcement personnel, must transport the deadliest serial killer in the United States to his execution. In the process, she discovers the true mission lurking within this demonic killers mind. Now, she must race against time to prevent it from coming to fruition.

Love Thine Enemy

At forty, Laurel Baxter feels that life is passing her by. As a vampire hunter for the Harker/Van Helsing Institute, she endures lonely nights and constantly limited horizons. Her only hope of gaining the life she so desperately craves rests in the hands of the worlds most lethal vampire.

An Eye for an Eye

Oliver Ocean is the head of Miamis top modeling agency. Knowing that his models contracts are soon to expire, Ocean plans a final photo shoot with them in the Caribbean. The voyage becomes a bloodbath, though, when Oceans crew is ambushed by unstoppable zombies.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Aug 27, 2010
• ISBN: 9781450243629

Jason M. Winn

Jason Winn lives in Houston, Texas. He has seen much of the United States and has traveled to a few other countries as well. Silent Fury is his second novel.

Book preview

Contents

Acknowledgements

Authors Warning

Story 1:

The Wages of Sin

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Epilogue

Story 2:

Love Thine Enemy

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Epilogue

Story 3: An Eye for an Eye

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Epilogue

Dedications

I dedicate this book to Momma Vallie (my grandmother). You will be truly missed indeed and I shall never forget you.

Acknowledgements

I would like to acknowledge God for allowing me to create this work and a special thanks to my Fans. I truly believe that these two factors make an authors’ job worthwhile.

Authors Warning

This book is a book of horror. Its contents are designed to scare the people willing to read it. If you are one easily offended by tales of terror, a possessor of a heart condition, stomach weakness, frighten easily, or are suffering from anxiety attacks –then-do not read this book. You have been warned.

Jason Winn, in this stunning second work, takes the reader into the shadowy realm of horror. He offers three stories of unrepentant, unflinching, and undeniable terror that will horrify beyond the pages:

The Wages of Sin

Special Agent Lydia Bryant, along with an elite team of law enforcement personnel, must extradite the deadliest serial killer in the US to his execution. Bryant soon discovers the true mission lurking within this demonic killers mind. And she must now race against time to ensure his survival.

Love Thine Enemy

Laurel Baxter, at 40, feels that life is passing her by. As a vampire hunter for the Harker/Van Helsing Institute, she endures lonely nights and limited horizons constantly. Her only hope of gaining the life she so desperately craves rests within the hands of the worlds’ most lethal vampire.

An Eye for an Eye

Oliver Ocean heads Miami’s top modeling agency. Knowing that his models contracts are soon to expire, Ocean plans a final photo-shoot with them in the Caribbean. The voyage becomes a blood bath when Ocean’s crew is ambushed by a team of Nazi-zombies that cannot be stopped.

Story 1:

 The Wages of Sin

Chapter 1

Even a blind man could see the vintage quality of the newsreel: black and white picture with random specks of white slivers dashing about. The camera-man did his/her best to steady the camera yet, one could see the drops and sways trying to keep up. Even the reporter was old school: long sideburns, butterfly-collar, and padded microphone.

This is Special agent Richard Newton of the FBI! announced the neatly groomed man in front of the camera. This is footage #42913-5! We are reporting now live May 5, 1971, from Houston, Texas, in an abandoned building near downtown!

The journey began. Newton started in his walk with camera close behind. His form gradually faded into the dark corridor. The young man’s footfalls could be heard as they trampled upon flotsam and puddles. Rats were even heard as they squeaked and scrambled about.

This is the room where most of the slayings took place! noted Newton while pointing his finger towards a section of the room. You can see a large blot: probably blood from one of his many victims! Over in this area we have visible handprints, scratches, even fragments of clothing! We’ve even come across human teeth and bits of bone: possibly skull fragments from machete and sledge-hammer usage!

I know why he’s showing me this video! snarled Agent Bryant mentally. And it won’t work! I’ve worked too hard and long for this day! And I’m not going to let his little boogey-man story spook me out!

The old video footage continued.

This building has been swept and studied for over two weeks now! And we’re still finding evidence! announced Newton as he walked past a section of the room that was hedged with crime scene tape. Each day seems like yet another in finding just how low this monster has plunged into the depths of depravity! The monster I’m speaking of is Lazarus Lorenzo King!

You’re not going to talk me out of this, damn-it! shot Bryant mentally.

Lazarus King, is evil! Plain and simple! stated Newton to the camera. He started his murders in 1970! And has since claimed the lives of at least 20 young women: mostly prostitutes! He lures them to this building! The building soon becomes a torture and death chamber! And he literally slaughters them in vicious and highly sadistic ways! Dr. Robert Steiner, our forensic pathologist, has concluded that King’s victims struggled wildly before they died! This is evident by the hand smears across the walls, the torn up furniture, and the broken windows with fragments of human flesh on the glass!

Bryant was bored out of her mind at this. She actually couldn’t believe that she was made to watch this. Getting the goose-bumps was not easy for her. And a cast iron stomach was all too evident in her make-up.

The video presentation ends with a noticeable click.

Light reveals a room of excellence and purpose. A room impeccably manicured with walls adorned with professionally framed certificates and awards. Brightly polished leather furniture and a freshly steamed carpet wonderfully accented the room.

This room also contained two other very important people:

Harold Hal Tucker of the US Marshalls. A tough and hip 40 something dressed in denim and a matching button down shirt. A handsomely groomed professional with a pony-tail and slight stubble.

Cole Younger of the DEA. Solid professional with a penetrating stare. By the book from head to toe: white shirt with the suspenders and tie.

I’m not going to bore you with the next thirty minutes of that video, Agent Bryant! announced Newton as he switched the lights on. I’m sure that you’ve seen it dozens of times! It is required viewing for those agents selected for this department!

Yes, sir! shot Bryant.

Lazarus Lorenzo King, is America’s worst serial killer! explained Deputy Director Richard Newton while looking his fellow agent squarely in the eyes. His viciousness is rivaled only by his intellect! He spent the early years of his career taunting local law with sick notes detailing his victims’ slaughter! He even went a step lower by telling when the next body would be found-and-what shape it would be in!

I’ve studied his file, sir! answered Bryant smartly. I even studied, the Mendez –Clarke Case of 1981!

And what did you think? asked Richard.

Francesca Mendez could not have possibly known that the man she was dating was the nations’ deadliest killer! noted Bryant. She dated him throughout his bloodiest time frame: 22 more victims from 1981-1984! This evidently shows his uncanny cunning! Lazarus King had her so fooled that she was going to marry him!

But? shot Newton.

Fran, began to put King on the back burner for another guy: Louis Clarke! explained Bryant. This one act sealed her fate! King dropped off the scene long enough to be forgotten yet, kept tabs on her whereabouts! To this day nobody knows how he did this! And on the eve of her wedding King, kidnapped and savagely mutilated her! Leaving a bloody husk sprawled across the reception hall!

You still believe that this one act of utter inhumane cruelty was a blessing in disguise? asked Cole with an air of sarcasm.

Most definitely, sir! answered Bryant. This ruthless murderer placed us within striking range of tracking him down! His elusive make-up was starting to wane! And the bureau caught him in 1999!

I joined the bureau back in ’70! announced Richard to his audience while rising to his feet. The new technologies that have come and gone meant very little in apprehending this man! The way he butchered his victims, let alone the way he covered his tracks, made him a killer of legend! Hal, I know Wayne Winters stayed all over your back when it came to King!

Yes, sir! acknowledged Hal in his Southern drawl. The US Marshalls specialize in fugitive retrieval but, King, was always a step ahead! Marshal Winters made us understand that!

He was a brilliant escape and evasion master yet, he was caught! answered Bryant gently.

By you, Agent Bryant. deliberated Newton.

One could see every one of the senior officers’ teeth at the mention of this. It was as if some nerve was plucked with sinister ease. Bryant was taken by this yet, retained her composure.

I had the best training that the bureau could muster for this task, sir! offered Bryant.

You wear modesty far better than honesty, Agent Bryant! replied Newton. Every news magazine in the country has been singing your praise for years! And for good reason: you caught the bad guy!

I couldn’t have done it without my team, sir! acknowledged Bryant respectfully.

And, once again, honesty suits you better! For you were the nucleus of Operation Guiding Light! determined Richard Newton with a broad smile. Everyone knows about your role in bringing in the most wanted man in America! How you went undercover, posing as a prostitute, to get full access to his death chamber! We all know of the ill-fated, Patty Du Hurst, used to reel him in! Incidentally, Du Hurst over-dosed shortly after King was caught!

And we all know that over a 100lbs. of heroin was found in several cars on the property where King was operating! shot Younger.

With all due respect, sir, what does this have to do with me? questioned Bryant.

King, is set to die on the 25th of February! He is to be put to death by lethal injection here in Texas! noted Newton.

King, is in Massachusetts! shot Bryant.Why wouldn’t they just kill him there?

No death penalty! And besides, your governor, is getting a lot of pressure from some VIP’s! Most notably Sen. Andrew Collins! smirked Cole while browsing over a group of papers. A few people have relatives that lost their lives to King! So it’s not hard at all to see why he is to be extradited!

Extradited, sir? probed Bryant.

We’re taking a train ride, Agent Bryant! affirmed Cole Younger with gentle adjustment of his glasses. You, me, and Hal are going to extradite King via rail-road back to Texas!

Lydia Bryant flashed a puzzled look at this. The train ride was an unexpected twist to things. One: she hated trains. And two: she preferred planes. Flying was always a joy to her.

I know that Boston has a couple of airports, sir! pleaded Bryant to her audience. That means Cape Cod, Sterling, or Chatham! There’s got to be a faster way to transport this madman!

No, there isn’t! shot Richard Newton. King’s quite a celebrity up there! Half the population wants to study him! While the other half wants to keep him in prison! And it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out the angle we have over those liberals up north! King committed the vast majority of his crimes right here in the south! And we’ve got a senator and a governor who want to execute him here!

I’ll do it, sir! acknowledged Bryant with a nod of her head.

Excellent! affirmed Richard Newton. Now, it’s important for you to know that we have several strategic bench-marks set in place for this mission! Massachusetts is a state rich with protesters and scientists! So a commercial flight is out of the picture: they’ll no doubt flood the airports! A motor convoy is also out due to similar constraints! A train will give us the motion and security we need!

He’s right! followed Hal with a nod of his head. I’ll bring along three additional marshals’ to help in piloting our helicopter! We’ll be your eyes in the sky to keep tabs on King!

The DEA has given me a team of 5 agents, including myself, to assist with the onboard duties in keeping King secure!

Agent Bryant, let it be known, you are in charge! declared Richard Newton. The DEA and the US Marshal Service are working with us, not over us, in this mission! They are there in a support capacity-and- they will support you!

Cole and Hal nodded in approval at this. They appeared to have no problem in being the assistants to a woman. They were confident men of purpose.

Richard Newton, still out of his seat, began to pace the room. All eyes were on this well seasoned man. Looking upon him was very moving. He had seen the best and worst of the bureau through the years.

I know that you all will do your best in this mission! uttered Newton while pacing the floor. I need not remind you of the seriousness involved: the price at stake! Lazarus Lorenzo King! A monster of a man with zero capacity for mercy! He is vicious, deceptive, and a master of the highest criminal intellect! Do not be misled into underestimating him! Doing so will only hasten your departure from this world-or-get you horribly maimed! If my words scare you shitless, great! If you think I’m over-reacting, outstanding! For this, God willing, shall keep you all alive!

Richard Newton is from the old school. He spent a great deal of his career in the bureau tracking down King. And he knows just how savage an enemy he is. Newton has sacrificed 2 marriages, gained an ulcer, and watched good people get maimed both physically and mentally due to King.

Agent Lydia Louis Bryant, born in East St. Louis, graduated in the top 5% of her class at Ness University, and excelled in counter insurgency and small weapons handling. A woman genuinely respected though out her department. She was tough as nails and twice as humble.

I’ll send that crazy, sick, fucking bastard back to death row where he belongs! thought Lydia to herself as she followed Newton with her eyes. I’ve a new team but, same goal! And we will put him away!

You all will report to the SARR ( Staff Administration and Reporting Room ) tomorrow at 0630! notified Newton while staring at his well polished bookcase. To our DEA and US Marshall crew: that’s this building near the basement level! You are dismissed!

It was with these words that the die was cast.

Lydia Bryant could feel a certain swelling within her heart that one could easily call conviction to purpose. Now was her chance to set the record straight. Now was the time to shine. People would see her as a pioneer. She could at least now be considered a female Elliot Ness. She was highly instrumental in cornering the nations’ top killer.

I’m glad that we’ll be working together, Agent Bryant! acknowledged Hal as he caught up with her in the hallway. I’ll have my boys ready to roll on schedule! Count on it!

Hal’s job was US Marshall but, his persona was totally urban cowboy. He stood a commanding 6’ 2", possessed dreamy brown eyes, sandy brown hair and rugged facial features. The type of man one would easily see starring in a western epic.

And people recognized this.

Marshall Tucker! Agent Bryant! announced a bright voice.

Agent Gray! announced Bryant to the running admin. secretary.

I’m sorry to intrude but, this is important! noted Gray while hurrying between Hal and Lydia. These files contain the authorization codes for your cargo! So you shouldn’t have a problem with transport!

Lydia and Hal both exchanged a quick glance at each other. It was mildly entertaining to see the strapping 20 something year old try to flirt with Hal. Gray, ever the professional, was still a sucker for a cute guy in jeans.

Thanks for the paper work, Ms…? unfinished Hal.

I’m Agent Gray, Marshall Tucker! interjected Agent Gloria Gray while batting her eyes to Hal.

Lydia Bryant could only smirk at this. She knew that the files were essential. She also knew that it was very important for every check to be double-checked. And she really knew that it was just as important for a young woman to get her flirt on with a hunk named Hal Tucker.

I’m glad to see the bureau being so helpful to you, Marshall Tucker! smiled Bryant slyly.

Yes, mam! acknowledged Tucker while giving his file folder a brief look. I do believe that we’ll be successful! And my team will be ready for take-off tomorrow morning!

I’ll be waiting! assured Bryant.

This stretch of hallway, so alien to most agents, was rather passé for Bryant now. She had advanced in such a special way. Nabbing King placed her on the FBI’s sought after list. The big promotions and the super status awaited her now. Completing this assignment would no doubt place her right on top of a new office: maybe Director Newton’s office.

Agent Bryant! shouted a powerful voice.

Col. Riley Bryant, USMC! announced Lydia while turning to meet the voice.

They won’t put you in jail for calling me daddy. whispered the aging marine while handing his daughter a bouquet of red roses from behind his back. Intel gives us the green light for at least an hour. I talked to your boss, it’s my treat, and you will say yes.

You are so bad. replied Bryant while accepting the bouquet and receiving a peck on the cheek.

Lydia Bryant could be called many things. Most people never saw her daddy’s little girl side. And most people hardly ever saw her daddy. All present in the hallway however, did see the joy in her eyes to see her father again. Colonel Riley Bryant was not going to be denied. He had just flown in from Quantico to see his daughter who was now based in Houston.

And it was just too convenient to grab a bite of BBQ while in town.

Old Man’s Guidry’s BBQ was the place to be for father and daughter. Located on the outskirts of downtown Houston ( mid-town ). Founded in 1967 Guidry, made it his business to serve lovely food to lovely people. Guidry was there when MLK was in the Sam Houston Coliseum, Apollo 11, and the 1986 light show as well as the 1990 Economic Summit.

It’s been too long since we last visited this place! enthused the colonel while finishing his last baby-back. And I couldn’t turn it down! Uh, uh!

Daddy, the ribs are nice but, I know why you’re here. uttered Lydia.

Lydia, you will not prompt a discussion on work. warned Bryant to his daughter. You work for the feds and they scare the shit out of me: and I’m a marine. So no talk of work, understand?

Daddy, I can’t help it. whispered Lydia while snacking on her curly fries.

You had best learn to. offered the colonel simply. I didn’t slave like a fool to see you rise and fall over some petty BS like keeping your mouth shut.

You need to bring some of those Washington D.C. types down here for some real Bar-BQ! suggested Guidry.

You and I both know they wouldn’t listen, Guidry! replied Col. Bryant. Besides, politicians don’t eat Bar-BQ! They eat people!

There you go! laughed Guidry while he finished wiping off the bar.

Christ Almighty, I love this place! declared the colonel while rolling the ice around in his tea glass. You know, back in the day! I got hooked on this place by accident! I was on my way to Giselle’s Bistro! One of those artsy-fartsy type of restaurants close to town! The surprise came when I took a wrong turn off of 45 and ended up here! And the rest is history!

I’ve been selected to make a special delivery. spoke Lydia with an ominous resolve.

Colonel Riley Bryant could read people like a book. Thus was it with a serious stare did he reach a tense resolve. He possessed the iron eyes that matched his daughters with equal force.

Daddy, I’m serious about this. uttered Lydia sternly.

Well, I guess like hell you are. replied Col. Bryant. This has got to have something to do with King.

Yes, sir. replied Lydia ominously. King’s going to be extradited from Massachusetts to Texas. It’s a big deal, security is going to be out the ass, and I’m in charge of the transport.

The face to face between these two was epic. The mere mention of King’s name was enough to change the tone. The conversation was light and jovial. Now was the tone heavy and dark. One like unto the precursor of doom.

I knew not to try and stop you in anything that you set your mind to. admitted Bryant to his daughter. You and your mother are both Capricorns. She told me that I was going to end up proposing to her by the new year: she was right. And you, when you were 12, told me that you were going to be a fed. So it didn’t surprise me when you rose through the ranks to become a celebrated agent: not at all.

The stone shelled Lydia Bryant listened to her father’s words.

I’ve never had to worry about you taking care of yourself, baby. admitted the marine colonel. But, when it came to that monster named King. I worried like hell. I was just coming back from Vietnam when he was making headline news. Chopping up those black girls that looked like my girl. It seems like the local law didn’t do much to stop him. For obvious reasons: they were black and prostitutes. But, I prayed and prayed and prayed that they would catch him. That somebody would catch him before my girl would join the bureau and have to catch him.

I’m not going to lie and say that I feel impervious to King. noted Bryant. I’ve learned the hard way, by seeing his victims, what that leads to. Yes, he is a monster. And, yes, he has turned more black women into hamburger meat than I care to remember but, he will be dealt with. I have a job to do. That job entails transporting him from point A to point B and I will do it.

I know you will. assured her father.

Lydia Bryant never was one to overlook the obvious.

Her father taught her to be much of what she is now. Colonel Bryant made it his business to maximize the quality time spent with his daughter. The seasoned marine corps officer didn’t mind picking her up from softball practice for banana splits. Nor did he mind seeing her perform as Lady Macbeth in the high school play.

Something was amiss however, in the colonel’s demeanor now. Something was dampening his spirit. And that something was the fact that King was still a factor in his daughter’s life. King meant trouble from any angle. The mere mention of his name would cause people, most particularly women, to cringe in fear. Lydia knew that her father was well read on King. Well read and deeply disturbed by the carnage left behind this locomotive of destruction. A terror train named King.

I know you’re the best person for the job, Lydia. resolved Col. Bryant grimly. It just makes me happy and sad that you’re the best.

I’ll have a bouquet of roses for you when I get back. assured Lydia with a wink and a grin.

Colonel Bryant forced a smile to spread across his troubled face. It was genuine enough to possess the hope that daughter was yearning to see.

I can go to my dad about anything-for anything. thought Lydia to herself. He is my one, true blue link to the life I had before the FBI. And I thank God everyday for him.

Lydia’s cell phone began to vibrate inside of her purse.

I know-I know! nagged the colonel.

Yes, you do! replied Lydia to her father. Thank you,….jarhead.

Hurrah. whispered the colonel while kissing his daughters hand.

The colonel and his daughter were quite the pair. One could see the contrast in their style of dress. Colonel Bryant was a spot on match with his winter green trousers, black spit-shined shoes, khaki web belt and short sleeve shirt with ribbons and rank, and his bus driver cover. While Lydia held up the civilian side of things dressed in her navy blue business suit and white blouse.

Lydia fought back the tears while watching her father catch a cab. The aging colonel never missed a beat and stood like a proud yet, savvy warrior. One seasoned in combat but, still possessing the ability to smile.

Via con dios. whispered Lydia while watching her father get into the taxi-cab.

Deep down inside could Lydia feel a certain chill creep up her spine. This was a vulnerability that she had not felt since her preliminary days at the bureau. And this did not sit well with her. An empty, there goes my guardian angel, type of feeling.

I’d better check my cell. rasped Lydia to herself.

The message was simple. Agent Gray was using a text to notify Bryant of the codes and when to use them. The codes were essential. They would notify the various check-points along the way to yield and allow passage. This would make the transport of King all the more faster. This would be like getting a street full of green lights for one particular car.

Gray also notified Bryant of the codes that would be used to supplement hers via DEA and US Marshalls. In the event that Bryant could not send her code on time. Then would the DEA or the US Marshall send their code(s) to confirm status. This would give the higher ups the assurance that all was well with the assignment.

Gray then notified Bryant to be aware of her claim to Hal Tucker. The US Marshall had indeed made an impression on the young FBI data specialist. And this meant that all 6’ 2" of the handsome law-man was hers to savor.

Slut. texted Bryant to her friend.

These events were cool with Bryant. Gray was an excellent informer and friend. Her primary weakness for men was borderline embarrassing. All it took most times was a man to be taller than her 5’ 4" frame and have a nice outline in the crotch area.

This is going to be a piece of cake! enthused Lydia mentally. We’ve got King in a moving cell! One that he can’t get out of! We’ve got codes out the ass that are in place to confirm every aspect of delivery of King! And last, but not least, we’ve got our eyes in the sky to keep watch over us as we transport transport King!

Lydia knew better than to utter the ..what could possibly go wrong… phrase.

A great deal of the state of the art technology was involved in this procedure. History has shown Lydia Bryant that things can and sometimes do go wrong. Even in the midst of superior technology. Crossing every T and dotting every i doesn’t guarantee a passport to success.

Worrying about anything however, opens doors to failure.

I’m coming to get you, King. whispered Bryant softly. Your reign of terror is going to end where it all began.

Agent Lydia Bryant left the Bar-BQ shack with a renewed resolve. Transporting King would no doubt tax her nerves. For it was her team that derailed King’s escape. And it was her work that lead to taking the nation’s most vicious serial killer off of the streets. And it was the same Lydia Bryant that the FBI requested for this very unique assignment. It was as though fortune had seen to her name being the one chosen for a job that nobody could/would want to do.

Thus was it her responsibility to succeed.

Mc Dow Correctional Facility.

This prison is located on the outskirts of Boston and nick-named the Meat Locker by a multitude of law enforcers. Mc Dow possesses the nation’s highest inmate suicide rate. This alarming statistic is not the result of guard brutality or neglect. Location is the reason for the suicides. Mc Dow is surrounded by windswept plains. The prison block at times is unbearably cold in the winter. Thus is it not surprising to see an increase in inmate suicides during this time.

King is housed here in this fortress of concrete, steel, and cold. And for close to 10 years has he bided his time patiently waiting for the next phase of his incarceration to unfold. He committed his last series of crimes in this state. And Massachusetts has no death penalty. One could argue that King planned for his finish to occur in this state. Sort of like a can’t get me now type of reality to a sordid career. One could say that King wanted a change of scenery due to the bureaus drag-net in the south.

The present reality saw King in his cell. He was housed on the first floor of the prisons central block. This area was afforded to him for two reasons. One: easy access for security. Two: easy access for scientific study. Many serial killers are now, sadly, the new folk heroes of the US. Scores of people thrill at their stories. So, in order to study King, a psychiatrist, lead and observed by several prison guards, can study King from behind the glass ( 6’ x 10’ poly-carbono shield ). The shield is 1" thick and can withstand the brunt of an exploding mortar shell. King’s well protected cell even comes complete with a cot and blanket, toilet, and a small sink.

How long has he been that way? questioned a lab coat wearing technician.

Hard to say. answered the guard while scratching his head. He gets like this sometimes: praying/fasting. He’ll just assume the position and pow.

Praying? Good luck. smirked the technician. That fucker’s prayers won’t make it past the ceiling and, if he is praying, who in the hell would want to hear it? I just wish he would get out of here: be somebody else’s problem, you know.

Amen, to that. chuckled the guard. You know, it’s funny. That SOB can kill up 50 fucking people. And what does he get? Three hots and a cot, free medical/ dental/ vision, and a bunch of cute bitches with clip-boards asking whether or not he jacked off when he killed. Jesus Christ, you gotta love this fucked-up country.

You two are having just too much fun. announced a senior looking guard from behind.

I thought you’d be asleep by now. replied the tech.

Well, I’m not. shot the older guard. We got orders to extradite the prisoner for transport effective immediately. Transfer is to take place tomorrow night after lights out. So, let’s make it happen.

King, was totally oblivious to the onlookers. He was in his own world that found him in deep meditation. Sitting in the lotus position, palms up, and head tilted slightly back. At times would his lips move. An ever so slight and brief mumbling would beset him while his meditation continued.

0745 hrs.

(Somewhere over the North-eastern coastline of the US)

A swiftly soaring private jet slices across the sky. Its wonderfully streamlined body is making short work of its mission. The graceful wings trailed fine lines of ice while traveling faster than sound.

It’s a lovely Friday the 13th in Myrtle Beach! announced the radio broadcaster. It’s 74 and sunny, with the high today at 80, and tonight leveling off to 68! Right now, a blast from the past, Martha & the De-Lites: Come and Take Me Away Boy on WBBZ on your FM dial!

I never been on a plane like this before, Agent Bryant! declared Hal Tucker with a slight country boy smile. I normally did my moving around by car or bus!

Well, Marshall Tucker, it’s nothing really! Bryant replied with a smirk. This is just something to get us up to Boston in a hurry on short notice! Trust me, we’ll have a longer time on the train!

So true, Agent Bryant! noted Younger while working upon his lap-top. That’s why I’m doing a little homework now to avoid the shit storm when we get on the ground!

Homework? asked Bryant.

Take a look! urged Younger while adjusting his lap-top to be seen by his audience. My agents are going to keep in touch with me 24/7 on this thing! And this is the crew I’ll be working with! These are their files, equipment, and the reinforcements if we need them!

Reinforcements? asked Tucker.

The DEA has been alerted to provide security reinforcements at 10 checkpoints along the way! assured Younger. These are at our request, of course!

Now there’s a man that doesn’t mind doing the math! Don’t have to worry about him slacking, Bryant! cheered Hal.

I applaud that! declared Bryant. I’m sure that we’ll come out on top but, every little bit helps!

Is this your first time doing something like this? asked Younger.

Yes, it is! replied Bryant.

Mine too! replied Hal.

I read about how you put the brakes on King back in ’99! noted Younger. Did you ever think that you’d be seeing him again someday?

Oh, I think about him all the time, Cole! admitted Bryant while wiping her glasses. I just didn’t think that it would be like this!

Do tell! replied Cole while still pressing keys upon his lap-top. We had a hell-raiser back in 2001! Francisco Vega Cortez! Drug lord, scum bag, really bad guy, you know?

I remember him! shot Bryant. He almost made public enemy number one but, fell out of line with his cartel! That was interesting, huh?

Sure as shit was! shot Cole bitterly. One minute were hunting him down! Next minute were giving witness protection due to his bargain with the DA! Turns out he can finger the big networks and we need his information!

He got killed, didn’t he? Hal asked.

Oh, yeah! smirked Cole Younger. Francisco starts naming names that’ll point to Washington sooner or later! And guess who dies from an acute case of food poisoning? Medical examiners claim that the young dope dealer had an allergic reaction to his govt. funded steak and lobster!

The papers said that it was a cartel related slaying but, I don’t think so! Hal suggested.

I wonder what the papers are going to say about this one? Bryant asked in a detached tone. Fellas, this is history in the making! Every aspect of this assignment points to this which leads to us! And we will succeed!

The sleek and swift Learjet continued in its flight to Boston. Those onboard were well aware of the mission. Indeed a simple mission that required very little understanding in its final outcome: delivering a vile criminal via train from Massachusetts to Texas.

One dreadful truth stood out like a sore thumb to one of the travelers. Lydia Bryant knew in her heart that she was on a rendezvous with a serial killer that murdered 50 young black women. And Lydia was black. This serial killer was also the one that was stopped by Lydia Bryant. For her task force was responsible for his incarceration. These things played so painfully in Lydia’s mind. For if anything went wrong during this mission. Lydia was quite certain that King would find his way to her car.

The pilot wants you up front, Agent Bryant! alerted Hal.

Thank you, marshal! replied Bryant in mild surprise.

Lydia made her way to the pilot’s area.

It’s for you, mam! announced the burly pilot as Bryant began to adjust her head-set.

This is Agent Bryant of the FBI! announced Bryant professionally. Requesting permission to land at 227 code #11!

You are cleared to land at 227, code #11! replied the voice over the head-set. Your party is ready for transfer!

2145 hrs.

(Mc Dow Correctional Facility)

I must say that I’m glad that you’re taking him away! enthused Warden Hadley. I remember the earlier cases all too well with him! And it’s all come full circle!

Warren X. Hadley knew the deal with King. His classic roll up your sleeves and work look appealed to most people. Hadley wore three piece suits and spit shined shoes. Non-the-less was he no stranger to an honest days’ work.

We appreciate your cooperation, Mr. Hadley! noted Bryant as Hal stood by.

The pleasure is all mine, Agent Bryant! affirmed Hadley. The bureau informed me of the procedure! I wasn’t about to waste time with moving this along!

We weren’t exactly expecting so much cooperation, sir! admitted Hal while looking at a deer trophy on the warden’s wall. Gov. Mitchell, didn’t even bother to show up!

I tagged and bagged that 8 point during my first vacation here! smiled Hadley. I know that Massachusetts is against the death penalty! And I know the end result for King once he’s in Texas! Believe me when I say this, young agents! That man is going to get what he deserves! He butchered those girls like a man possessed! So it’s only right that he gets the chair!

Or the needle, sir! reminded Tucker.

Exactly! affirmed Hadley.

The warden’s well lit and manicured office was marvelous to behold. It had its share of awards and certificates. And the book case was polished with rows of thick texts. And the window blinds were spotless as well. Hadley was the squared away warden. Hadley was a gentleman.

A very morally intact gentleman.

Warden Hadley, what can we expect from King? asked Hal Tucker.

King epitomizes the phrase silent fury! declared Hadley while checking his watch. It’s time! But, like I was saying, King, is a violent storm within a placid body!"

Did he get along with the majority of the people that came to see him? asked Bryant while opening the warden’s office door.

He’s a model inmate! declared Hadley. Everyone around here really doesn’t have a problem with him: trustees, orderlies, guards, you name it! He had one incident that forced us to place him in that special cell! King was meditating and one of our orderlies was sent to feed him his lunch! The orderly disturbed is meditation and King sent his body through the bars of his cell! What was so horrible about this event was that the orderly weighed 320lbs. and King was a mere 185 at the time! Our prison doctor reasoned that the poor orderly had been hurled through the bars with the force of a speeding motorcycle!

That’s scary! noted Hal with a shuffle to the hallway door that opened to the prisons promenade.

No, young man! shot Hadley while adjusting his tie. What’s scary is that the orderly survived!

Hal met Lydia’s grimace with a arched eyebrow. Indeed were both their minds working. For the wardens last remark caused their brains to wonder of the orderlies’ broken body on that fateful day.

The promenade.

This area of the prison easily represented the primary center. Mc Dow was showing both its age and its strength. For its architecture was highly reminiscent of the pre-industrial age. This was the era when brick was painstakingly set and floors were flat and thick. This was also the era when things looked tough because they were tough.

We can observe from this catwalk, Agent Bryant! assured Hadley with a double handed grip upon the catwalks rail. My finest guards will make sure that you get your package!

I’m impressed, Warden Hadley! replied Lydia.

Indeed were the agent’s words true to form. The prison guards were all in place and highly disciplined. Above the catwalk, were stood the warden and his company, Hadley placed four snipers. All of them were dressed in their standard uniforms yet, they stood poised for action: armed with M-14 rifles with infra-red scopes. And these weapons were trained upon King.

While at deck level, another team of guards performed their task to the letter. Four fully uniformed guards were taking King from his special cell. Each guard was wielding a solid 6’poli-plex rod that was secured to King. And these rods were attached to King’s special jacket. This jacket possessed a very motion limiting design: King’s arms and hands were secured straight down and together between his legs, a special gas-mask type of helmet covered his face and head, and the thick nylon strap (drawn between his legs )held everything together and fastened securely with a device in the midst of his back.

The bizarre parade was indeed very eye-catching. Mc Dow possessed a staging area for motor vehicles close to the prisons main entrance. King was being lead from one heavily fortified area to another. The high tech cell which housed King was now going to lose its inmate. For a temporary cell was going to house King now. A cell possessing a diesel engine, armor plating and bullet resistant glass, and a custom made stand-up cell.

King looked more science-fiction than devious criminal in his present attire.

We used a nice bit of change to customize that car! affirmed King. And it is a worthy investment! Tonight is going to be its baptism of fire! Anderson and Adder, two of my guards, await you in Boston! They’ll meet you there and return the armored van when you’re done!

The armored van closed its metallic door with a heavy dull thud.

That’s that! declared Hadley while viewing the boarding of King into the van. I know that my boys can’t go with you on this mission but, be safe out there!

Will do, Warden Hadley! replied Bryant with a hearty handshake. You have my word!

The armored van cranked to life. In-spite of its thick plating and glass, the van rolled through the prisons main entrance. The ominous looking black vehicle moved about thirty yards from its starting point. This placed it near the prisons cold and tall flag pole. And ready to roll.

I can’t believe that we are actually getting through this. uttered Lydia to her comrade.

It’s almost scary. Hal replied with a slight sneer.

Both agents walked from the catwalk. Both journeyed down the metallic grated steps. The prisons old architecture contrasted sharply with the technology of Bryant and Tucker. Ear-phones looked so futuristic in this realm of dark gray and black.

Outside at last.

I’m glad that we’re finally out of that prison! You okay? asked Hal while offering Bryant a stick of gum.

Thanks, Hal! replied Lydia while accepting a stick of gum. You and I both! Christ, I almost killed myself! No wonder its’ got the highest inmate suicide rate!

That’s why it’s a prison, Agent Bryant! reminded Hal with a yawn. Younger’s going to rendezvous with you in Boston! And I’ll stay here for the chopper to pick me up! Who knows, maybe I’ll get lucky and catch a few moments on the train! Added protection, you know!

I’ll switch up with you so you can get some sleep, Hal! affirmed Lydia as she walked up to the passenger side of the armored van.

Opening the vans door was quite a revelation. A chilling grip of cold raced through Lydia: mind, body, and soul. The icy sensation was more supernatural than anything that Lydia had ever experienced in her life. And this deathly cold force could not be mistaken for anything else but, evil. The type of evil that grabs you-makes a fist with your soul- and drags you, kicking and screaming, into its domain.

Hey, you alright? asked Hal with his typical southern drawl.

I’m okay, Hal. replied Lydia in a somewhat detached tone. I’ll see you in a couple of hours!

Chapter 2

Lydia climbed into the armored van’s front passenger seat. The driver, a stocky older man in his 50’s, tipped his hat to her. His friendly yet, business first demeanor was reassuring. And Hal’s shut of her door was doubly reassuring as well.

Who am I trying to kid? scorned Lydia to herself.

Deep down inside Lydia knew that something was horribly wrong. The cold that hit with such cruel force did more than just get her attention. It remained and continued to torment her with its eerie sensation. It felt so ominous and morbidly certain of doom.

Her doom.

I admire what you’re doing, Agent Bryant! admonished the driving prison guard.

Thank you, sir! replied Lydia trying to maintain her composure in-spite of the evil cold.

I’ve got a little girl! And it’s nice to know that at least one psycho-killer like King will be out of commission! You know what I’m saying? conversed the guard as he drove the van.

All too well, sir! answered Bryant.

Hey, you don’t have to call me sir! determined the guard. Names Hatchet, Virgil Hatchet!

Well, Mr. Hatchet! Taking King out of commission had a lot of planning from start to finish! reminded Bryant.

I just wish you guys had the support of everybody on this one! added Hatchet. People will be people I guess but, it’s embarrassing! They want to take King to the side and study his brain or something! That’s the biggest bunch of bullshit! If I had my way-I would send every one of those psychopath/sociopaths to the chair! Living life on this planet is tough enough as is without dealing with those sick sons-of-bitches!

You said a mouthful, Mr. Hatchet! smiled Lydia. How long have you been a guard?

I’ve done this kind of work my entire life! Hatchet replied while negotiating a curve. I even remember the first day they bought King here! Not much has changed since that day and today!

How so? asked an entranced Bryant.

See the clouds? shot Hatchet while pointing his index finger. See how they’re swarming around the moon? Almost like they’re trying to cover the moon?"

So you’re saying that you think King is powerful enough to control nature? wondered Bryant cautiously.

Ms. Bryant, I’m not trying to sound crazy! And I’m sure as hell not trying to spook you but, it’s just my observation! noted Hatchet. The day they bought King here, was the day that the sky looked just-like- that!

Lydia Bryant possessed an ability to discern even before the bureau. This meant that she could size one up/read a person accurately. Hatchet meant well. He was one of those old school guards with a good heart. Hatchet was the type that would play Santa Claus for children at the mall.

Mr. Hatchet, I give you my word! King, is going to be a thing of the past for you after today! declared Bryant.

I believe you will, Ms. Bryant! replied Vigil Hatchet.

The trek from Mc Dow to Boston was a short one. The wind-swept plains gave way to thick forests. Soon the scenery was urban. Tall buildings were the things to see at this point.

Mc Dow Heavy, this is Mc Dow! spoke a voice over the CB/radio. What is your position and package status?

Mc Dow, this is Heavy! answered Hatchet. We’re about 5 minutes from the rail-yard! Package is stable and set to move on schedule!

Good job, Mc Dow Heavy! acknowledged the voice over the radio. Agent Younger and his team will meet you at the check-point! Marshall Tucker will be with the pick-up crew!

What happened to the chopper? asked Bryant with a hint of suspicion.

Status on chopper, Mc Dow? asked Hatchet.

Winds are too strong for a chopper! replied the voice on the other end of the radio.

Tell Agent Bryant, that I’m not going to risk my life going up in that wind storm! interjected Tucker into the CB/radio. I won’t be late for the mission! I’m just going to travel by car!

Copy, Marshall Tucker! grinned Bryant while gently taking the CB/radio from her burly driver.

It was all Lydia Bryant could do to breathe laughter into the situation. She still