The Touch: A New and Exciting Voice in Science Fiction and Romance

By William J. O'Neal

SLESGE BOLTON has powers that he didn't understand! Then he met Cathy and his whole world began to explode about him. Cathy told him about the council and the living blood that they both carried. She told him the Navaho revered him and considered him a God. Only after visiting the secret place with the tribal elder and attending the council of the chiefs he realized his life would never be the same.

Could he be this Kuno and take on a quest of the unknown danger? Were the protectors within the council strong enough to take on the secret commission that was seeking to rule the world? Could the council's friend in high government places survive? Were his gifts of wonder enough to escape the hands of defeat?

A hundred questions loomed before him and he realized that each must be dealt with and each must be solved.

The elder had told him that the epic battle between Kuno and the evil one would be fought high in the mountains and that only one would enter the 1000 years of peace.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 8, 2010
• ISBN: 9781456820053

William J. O'Neal

I was born in Birmingham, Alabama and lived only a block away from Roebuck Golf Course. When I was 12 I was a double bogie golfer and hopefully headed for a golf career. At 13 our family moved to the country near Montevallo, Alabama and life began anew. My brother, sister and I fell in love with the rural life and sports like hunting, fishing, camping out and horseback riding became our growing up fun and pleasures. We all developed a deep love for the country life that’s always been with us. I was educated at Montevallo High School and attended the University of Alabama and followed construction occupations for several years. My desires pushed my will for success and I opened a construction business and became a successful home builder. My love for youth sports bloomed and I became an organizer of teams and leagues. My hands on coaching was very successful. I can truthfully say that I was never more pleased than I was in seeing the youth in our community achieve their highest goals. My writing is a special love as I’ve had a romance with the pen for many years going back to my English Teacher Vinnie Lee Walker, at Montavallo High School. She lit the fire and I burned the midnight oil. We all need to say thanks to teachers like her. I love the craft and in writing I’ll always try to tell a story and try to give the glimpses of what life is really about. I now live in Birmingham, Alabama and enjoy living life with my three children and the special woman in my life, Joan. I have six grandchildren and one great granddaughter and seven great grandsons.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

It comes in the night like a presence but can’t be seen or felt or heard . . . It’s like nothing I can describe. It overtakes me and settles within my body causing a warm glow and a peaceful existence. I’m helpless against this intruder. Yet harm does not come to me. Instead I’m rejuvenated as I sleep. I awaken alert and energetic, yet, frightened for some reason.

What can I do? Or let me ask what does my life offer. Sometimes I’m free of ‘It’ for several days and nights, and then for some reason I’m possessed again. This transition occurs apparently for no specific reason that I can rationalize. The only thing I know for sure is that ‘It’ will return and take over and I’m at its will. I dare not share this weird sensation that occurs for fear of being thought of as an idiot or crackpot. There is no possible explanation for this occurrence, yet I know it’s real and to escape I cannot. My only link to sanity is to know that within my world of existence I’m fine and I thrive. My body is healthy and I seem not to want for anything.

Sledge inserted the floppy disk into the A drive and copied the typed words to the disk. He carefully removed the disk and inserted it into the protective sleeve.

Sledge stood up and walked quickly to the fireplace, pulled on the hidden latch and watched as the compartment behind the wall opened. He stored the disk in a lead lined box and pushed the wall section back to the closed position. Well for what it was worth he would continue to record the events that were unfolding. In time maybe he could figure out the meaning of the revelations that rushed through his mind. He took a shower, dressed in walking shoes, shorts and a pull over top. Minutes later he parked his La Saber at the lake side and began his early morning routine of five quick paced laps around the small lake.

He could see a single female up ahead and her pace was almost as fast as his. On the third lap he had closed the distance to thirty yards. She looked familiar. Nice rounded hips, lean legs, her hair tied in a ponytail and a sweatband around her forehead. He quickened his steps and closed the distance. Yes, it could be Tandy.

The crunch of the gravel surface was growing near now—everything was going as planned. Cathy felt a quiver of nerves and a flush hit her face as she thought about Sledge Bolton. At last the time had come when she could pursue the one man she had loved all her life. Oh just let things go well, she said to herself, Don’t let me be a tongue tied schoolgirl. Then the crunches were very near and his footfalls seemed hurried.

Hello, there.

Cathy turned her head as he spoke and smiled. Hello, yourself. Oh my, it had been nine years but he still had those breathtaking good looks that she had dreamed about so many nights

Oh, I’m sorry, you’re not who I thought you were. Sledge stammered.

No, I can’t say that I know you. Do you walk here often?

Daily, Sledge replied. You look so much like someone I met here once.

Well, I’m sure, I would have remembered, had we met she replied. My name is Cathy.

Well, hello Cathy. I’m Sledge Bolton, nice to meet you.

Its nice to met you too.

Can I presume that you walk here often?

No, in fact it’s my first time. I’m visiting for sort of an R & R vacation.

So you’re seeing the sights of Birmingham?

Yes and no. I’m attending the UAB Seminar on Genetic Reconstruction Processes. I’ll be here for a couple of weeks.

So, you’re in the medical field.

More or less, I’m basically research oriented. I’ve studied in the field of reconstructive genetic processes.

"That my lady sounds like deep water, to me.

Cathy laughed softly—Well, maybe so, but it’s so very interesting.

Like, how is it interesting? Sledge quizzed attempting to prolong the conversation.

Cathy smiled again. Have you ever wondered why crayfish or lobsters developed the ability to grow a new pincher claw to replace one that was torn off?

No, I can’t say that I have, but what has that got to do with Genetic Reconstruction?

It’s the new field in research, Sledge. If medical science can figure out the genetic impulse process that triggers reconstruction in the lower forms of life one day we of the human gender might grow new teeth or a new heart or whatever.

That’s like playing God isn’t it, Cathy?

Could be, but we’ve been given the gray matter to use—even the most of us use only a very small percentage of our true capacity.

Yes, I read that we use only a token of our potential.

So, if we have it, shouldn’t we use if for the good of man?

Sure, but man most fears what he doesn’t understand, wouldn’t you agree?

Agree, but ignorance shouldn’t curtail advancement. Once we comprehend how our bodies and the universe exist, we should take advantage of the utopia that might be there for us.

You mean like the ability to live forever?

Who knows for sure, man has only just begun to understand life. We know what causes the normal aging process, what we have to discover is how to control or reverse the process . . . that’s called genetic research.

How about sharing breakfast with me and we can continue our conversation? His eyes pleaded and he waited for her answer.

I think I’d enjoy that.

Good, it’s a done deal.

They exited the trail at the parking lot and walked to Sledge’s Buick. I’m walking, if you’re wondering. I spotted this little lake yesterday from my room window and strolled over to take my hike. I’m staying at the Winfrey.

I’m driving the Buick, shall we?

Sure.

Sledge opened the door and she seated herself. Seconds later he started the engine and drove away. How about trying Jack’s? I eat there often and they have a good variety to choose from.

I’d better warn you breakfast is my weakness. I can eat everything in sight.

The most important meal of the day was what Mom always said, Sledge replied.

You had a smart mom. Last nights meal is almost burned fuel, we need to replenish for the afternoon.

That’s genetic, I presume.

Yep, you win the silver star.

Sledge smiled, You’re like a breath of fresh air, ‘Miss Cathy’.

Draper. She concluded smiling at him.

_________________

Sledge Bolton adjusted his tie again and buffed his shoes with the brush. He felt like a schoolboy in a way. He was excited about the chance encounter with Cathy. It was pure delight. She was quick to his notions and seemed to sense his mood. Regenerate . . . she had said the word several times and was convinced that life could be forever fruitful and full of vitality. Could she be the one that he could share his It with? Could she understand what he might be experiencing? He didn’t know, but time would tell. He certainly didn’t want to come across as a crackpot.

_________________

Sledge Bolton accepted the parking tag from the attendant and escorted Cathy through the double entry doors into the Club. Hi John, I have a reservation. I’d like a table overlooking the terrace at the glass.

Yes sir, just follow me.

It’s lovely Sledge, Cathy said as he seated her. The music is fabulous.

Sledge smiled, I thought you might like it here. The Club is Birmingham’s one true class operation.

The city is beautiful; It’s like looking down on a thousand stars.

Yeah, the night takes away that close up and personal view of the decaying inner city. Outside of Birmingham Green and UAB the city is dying as far as business is concerned. It’s the normal white flight that most cities have experienced. The power base in the city is black and white flight continues. The business goes where the flight settles.

Our inner cities turn to gang controlled societies dominated by impoverished minorities.

More or less, Sledge replied. But one good thing has occurred, some of the black leaders that have emerged realize that the problem lies in the homes and schools. The progressive black power base and the clergy are trying to change the image and don’t harp on civil rights as the battle cry. Some wish to do something about the problems.

Cathy nodded. So much for the city, tell me about Sledge Bolton.

Not much to tell, Cathy.

Cathy reached across the table and placed a hand on his. Cathy seems much too formal to me. All my friends and those who I care about the most, call me Cat.

How did that come about? Sledge chuckled.

Mom, I guess . . . I’ve been Cat since I was a little girl.

Ok, Cat it is. So you want to know about Sledge?

Yes, she smiled.

Well, let’s see. Grade school and high school was normal, I’d say. I played most of the sports. Wrestling was where I excelled. I was six feet as a junior and won the state championship in the 6A large school division. I was 6’2 as a senior and won again. I was a decent high school baseball pitcher, I think I won 22 and lost six in my final two years.

So you were the heart throb of all the fair maidens?

I wouldn’t say that but I’ve always enjoyed the female gender.

I’ll bet, Cat smiled in a mischievous manner, "With your masculine profile

And wicked grin my bet is that you broke a few hearts."

Not on purpose, Sledge replied.

But you broke a few didn’t you?.

Sledge twisted in his seat ill at ease. Was she trying to intimidate him with innuendoes or was she teasing and watching his reactions—And how many hearts did you break Cat?

We’re on the subject of Sledge, we’ll get around to Cat.

Sledge smiled, You can bet we will.

Where did you go to college?

At the University of Alabama, studied Business Administration, got my masters degree and continued to pursue my first love—stocks and bonds. I guess I was torn between real estate and the bond market so I simplified the problem, I pursued both careers.

What about family? What’s your family like?

I have none to speak of.

Sure you have.

Sledge had talked very little about his family over the years and now this beautiful female was brilliantly gleaning details about his life that had been pushed aside and parked deep within his memories. I was only five when Mom and Dad died—we were on a trip out west traveling across the desert in New Mexico when the accident occurred. The car left the highway and overturned down a steep embankment. The car was out of sight and I lived for two days trapped inside with my dead parents. The circling buzzards finally gave up the secret.

My God, what an awful experience—and you were just a young boy.

It seems like my whole life changed at that time—I’ve had a lot of weird dreams through the years and they seem so real and alarming.

Gosh I’m sure they are, can you tell me about them?

Maybe at some future time, for now lets talk about Cat.

Not yet, there’s something I must know.

What?

Who raised you?

My Grandfather, He flew down to Mexico, made the funeral arrangements and took me home. He was a good man Cat and took care of me all by himself. Grandmother had passed on two years before . . . He gave me guidance. In fact he willed himself to live to be sure I was taken care of. He died at 84 the year I turned 21.

Sounds to me like he was a wonderful person.

That he was Cat, I owe him all that I am or ever hope to be.

Sledge are you certified?

I’m classified 1AAA, he smiled.

I’m 1AAA also, she grinned.

That’s interesting, I’ve met very few triple A females.

At least any that you were aware of

And what’s that supposed to mean.

I’ll tell you sometimes, 0 Kay.

Why not now?

Because I’m hungry Cat smiled.—That’s it Cat squirm out of revealing anything right now . . . the time will come—don’t be hasty.

Sledge raised his hand slightly.—Immediately the waiter was at the table. Would you like to see the menu Cat?

No, you do the ordering—surprise me.

You asked for it, Sledge turned to the waiter, We’ll have oyster shooters for an appetizer, salad with the house dressing, prim rib medium, baked potato, sour dough bread, and a bottle of the pink bubbly to sip—you know my favorite.

Yes sir, Mr. Sledge.

My Saturday night special, Sledge offered, And now I want to know about Cat.

Must we?

Yes we must. Sledge insisted.

I’m five seven, twenty-eight, weight 126, college grad, single and looking. Cat smiled at him and continued. My interest area you know—I have a doctor’s degree in Bio-Chemistry and Genetics. How’s that in a nutshell?

Brief but informative, Sledge replied. Tell me about your family.

There’s not much to tell Sledge—they are both deceased. I have no brothers or sisters. I was one of those late life children, My Mom was 52 when I was born.

That’s late in life for birthing children.

For sure, Cat replied.

The meal was served and they continued to chitchat.

They stepped off the elevator still clutching hands and walked down the corridor together. Cat paused and removed the plastic key from her purse. I guess it’s time to say goodnight.

Must we? Sledge asked.

Cat smiled. We’ve crossed enough bridges today don’t you think?

If you say so, Sledge replied.

Tomorrow is another day Sledge. Cat tiptoed and briefly kissed him on the lips, Goodnight, she almost whispered.

What about tomorrow?

I walk in the dawns early light, she smiled. I’ll see you then. The door closed and Sledge stood alone in the hallway.

* * *

Sledge pounded the keyboard and when he had finished, he paused and read his words. Met Cat today—we seem to be so much alike. She’s vibrant and full of life. There are a thousand questions that I want to ask her about genetic reconstruction—Refer to my notes about two weeks age when I cut my finger—It came that night and when I awakened the following morning the cut was completely healed. I have no answers but I must find the reasons that these wonders occur. I wonder if it is real or if my will is developed to the degree that I can in fact heal myself. I have studied the religious beliefs as in the laying on of hands to cure the sick—can one heal oneself by sheer will power or am I cursed or protected by some unknown presence?

We fear what we don’t understand and yet we seek the answers not knowing what truth we’ll discover. Of this I am sure. A new chapter of my life has begun—Will Cat be the one to heal my soul and end my long journey alone, or must I as time passes move along and leave those I love behind?

Sledge copied his words on the disk and stored it away. A new chapter was beginning. Could this be the one that answered his questions or would he be destined to forever wallow in his grief?

CHAPTER 2

THE COUNCIL

The mist from the lake was much like a fog and it obliterated his view of the walking trail. He parked the Buick in his usual place, got out and sat on the warm hood of the car. He glanced at his watch after waiting several minutes; it was six o’clock and time for his walk he decided.

So you beat me here, came Cat’s voice from out of the fog.

By fifteen minutes, I didn’t want to be late.

You’re too regimented to be late, now me that’s another question, I over slept—Cat toweled the sweat from her forehead, I ran hard all the way over from the Winfrey"

I could have picked you up you know.

Yes I do know, but I wanted to run. It invigorates me.

Ready for a slower pace?

You bet.

After five vigorous laps they settled at a picnic table and wiped away their sweat. Did you sleep well? I visited you in my dreams.

Cat smiled, her eyes lively, Was it a nice visit?

Wonderful, Sledge replied as he rolled his eyes.

Want to share it? Cat teased.

It would make you blush.

I don’t blush easily.

Nevertheless, I’ll keep my dream’s private if you don’t mind.

Cat pouted with her lips, I do suspect that you had better do just that. Her eyes were excited and a closed mouth smile eased across her face. Sledge had seen that sparkle before but where? Her eyes were speaking to him and her smile reflected a knowing secret.

You do realize that it was hard for me to leave you last night don’t you?

It was just as hard for me you big lug, you should know that. I had a wonderful experience yesterday. I met a swell guy. He wined me, dinned me, and danced me off my feet. You’re impossible Sledge Bolton.

It feels good Cat. It didn’t feel just good—he was entranced by her words and actions. It had been a long time . . .

What?

What I feel for you, he replied as he placed his hand on top of hers.

I’m glad, it feels good to me too Sledge but let’s not rush things, let’s get to know each other OK?

Sure, only there are some things I don’t think you want to know.

Like what?

Later, OK?

Sure but how are we to get to know one another if it’s always later?

Sledges’ thoughts raced—would she be like all the rest and share a few weeks or months with him and then be gone from his life not to be heard from or seen again. My God, he had endured that pain for years and he tired of the constant turmoil. Seek and find and then only to have one heartbreak after the other. Cat, I’m by nature a seeker of love, I’ve found love many times only to have it snatched from me like I didn’t deserve to be loved—Yes, I grab at every moment and cherish that wonderful feeling but do you know what?

No, what?

I’ve just about given up on the idea of love, I don’t like the heartache it gives me, yet I can’t seem to exist without seeking the source of fulfillment.

Maybe I’ll be that woman to love you forever.

Or love me for a season and leave me to grieving again.

No, I wouldn’t do that Sledge.

I would hope not but nothing is written in blood is it?

No, it could be generically written.

And what do you mean by that?

Just a thought.

Now who’s the one that’s putting off ’till later what we’re discussing now?

Cat smiled as her thoughts raced. It was decided long ago that the revelations would be revealed in bits and pieces not in one overwhelming uncompassionate verbal communication. Sledge had survived and he did it on his own, not with the guidance of the council. Sledge, there are things I could share with you that you might find very alarming and in some ways they might seem deceitful, yet in harsh reality they were necessary.

Good God Cat, this world is full of deceit, or should I say what’s left of it. People lie, cheat, steal and grab at whatever their short life span might offer them.

True Sledge, do you realize that the life span for 1A’s is only twenty-five years. In another few years it will only be fifteen. Then who will care for the young? No one that’s who—The 2AA’s are only one generation behind.

But that’s not necessarily a given fact, hell if it were so the whole population would be in a riot. What about the 3AAA’s Cat?

Cat didn’t answer immediately—You and I and the other three’s will live long lifetimes if we’re not discovered.

Sledge felt his muscles knot in his stomach. What did this woman know about him? Was she sincere? Cat our meeting was not by happenstance was it?

Cat looked into his face, their eyes focused almost in a stare. Yes and No, I was given permission to meet you. She glanced away—to another place in her world, to other times, to the loneliness of the years.

Given permission?—Who in the hell would have to give you permission to meet me?

The Council, Cat replied.

And who’s this almighty Council? Sledge felt invaded and urged himself to control his actions. What the hell was going on.

It’s a long story Sledge. I’m afraid I’ve already said too much. Subdued she could not meet his eyes with her own.

Sledge was standing and kicked out at the air in disgust. He turned back to Cat—Just how much do you know about me?

Much more that you could possibly imagine.

Tell me just one thing that you know that I haven’t shared with you.

Sledge I don’t want to alarm you. I’m afraid of your reactions. I love you, I don’t want to feel your scorn.

How could you love me, we’ve only known each other a couple of days—and why would I scorn you? Damn! Sledge stood up and walked briskly toward the parking lot.

Cat ran quickly and caught up to him taking him by the arm and trying to slow his pace. Sledge stop a moment, let me try to explainwhat I can.

Sledge stopped abruptly and turned to Cat. So explain

Sledge I’m a member of the Council. I’ve pleaded for years for them to allow us to be together and finally they agreed, now don’t go and spoil what might be ours.

Why in the hell do you have to ask anyone’s permission as to how we live our lives—that’s a bunch of hog wash, pure bull shit as I see it.

But it’s not at all like you think Sledge. You’ve survived on your own. Many of our groups have required extensive help.

Our group—what’s this our group thing anyway?

It’s a small group when you consider the population. At the present time we have only 212 fours. You and I are fives Sledge.

Our genetic health is rated three Cat.

For all intents and purposes we are threes Sledge, but there are 212 fours and two fives. You and I are the fives. There, she had said it, but how would Sledge accept her words.

Cat you alarm me. Am I supposed to believe that we are some master race that will live forever?

Cat wiped the tears off her cheeks and looked up to Sledge. The Council told me this would be difficult to do and I’ve made a bloody mess of it. I’ve totally screwed up what I hoped would be a beautiful revelation.

Cat, I want the whole story, I can’t take the chance of someone finding out certain things. Now ’fess up or I’m out of here and I do mean now.

Cat was sobbing and wiped again at her cheeks. Sledge I ask of you one thing, just give me the opportunity to talk with the Council. If they say OK, I’ll tell you all that I know. Is that a fair request?

Can I trust you Cat?

I love you Sledge does that answer your question? Why couldn’t she control her impulses? Sledge would think she was a clinging vine, a possessive female with only one goal. He was the goal, but . . .

You’ve got it, how long will this take?

If you’ll drive me back to the Winfrey, I’ll do some telephoning. It should take no more than an hour.

Shall we? Sledge opened the door and she seated herself.

Are you going to call me or what?

I’ll call you as soon as I get my answers.

I’ll be waiting to hear from you, now call me right away. Sledge stopped the car in front of the Winfrey entrance. Call me soon Cat.

I will, and Sledge I do love you.

Catch you later, Sledge replied. He drove away.

CHAPTER 3

THE REVELATION

Sledge grabbed the telephone on the first ring and said, Hello.

Hi, are you hungry?

Better know it. There’s so much going through my mind that I had forgotten I hadn’t eaten.

Me too, say, why don’t I pick up some things here at the deli and we’ll eat out in the fresh air away from prying ears

I’ll supply the beverage and ice, maybe even an additional snack or two.

Sounds great, I’ll be at the front entrance awaiting your arrival.

Ten-four, I’m on my way. Sledge grabbed a big comforter and two pillows as he passed through the garage. Hell, they’d make it a picnic, he said to himself.

Cat was waiting with an armload of sacks. Sledge reached across the seat and pushed the door open for her. You’ve got enough for an army.

Cat smiled, I’m hungry, I’ll have you know.

It shows, Sledge replied as she packed away the goods. How about Oak Mountain Park and a picnic by the lake side? The motor started and he drove away.

Sounds like a fabulous idea, Mr. Bolton.

Make it Sledge, OK?

Sure, your wish is my command.

Don’t I wish! Was she as happy as her bubbly voice seemed? Her eyes had that sparkle again and her smile had returned.

Never can tell, you might strike my fancy.

Sledge smiled, You sound chipper.

I am, I got everything I wanted from the Council, now I can tell you everything.

That’s good to know, want to start?

Not really, I’d prefer to eat first, it’s a long story and you’ll have a thousand questions.

A thousand wouldn’t began to answer my questions little girl. I’ve got to pick your mind. There’s so much I need to know . . . Why don’t you just give me a little background about the Council?

Cat thought for a moment. It’s a select group of three’s or should I say four’s and one five, of course you know me.

Yes, indeed I do, Sledge smiled.

"The others are from several walks of life. We’ve got a Senator who’s Chairman of the Internal Affairs Committee. Even the FBI doesn’t deny his request for information. Another member is in the House of Representative; he sits on the Internal Affairs Committee, and is well placed. We have two doctors in Major Medical Centers; one of them is at UAB right here in Birmingham. We’ve got one member well placed in the FBI and another in the Pentagon; he’s an assistant to a Five Star General. That’s some of the group that forms the Council.

And this group are fours?

Correct.

What’s the difference between a three and a four?

Span of life is the key difference. Four’s can live to be maybe 150 years old without major problems. Fives, like you and me, no one knows how long we can live.

Cat did have insight. Could she possibly know that he was 96 years old . . . could this Council of hers know much about his life? Why all the cloak and dagger stuff?

I don’t have to answer that, you should know the reasons better than I.

Sledge smiled to her as he turned into the park entrance. Know what Cat, in a certain way I feel liberated. I’ve never been able to share my circumstances before. I’ve had to exist as a loner, to find my own way. It’s been a lonely existence in many ways. By the way, how much does the Council know about me?

Much of what there is to know.

You’re evading my question Cat. Didn’t you tell me you could tell me everything now.

Cat smiled and slid over close to him. Touching his upper arm . . . Why are you so impatient? I’ll tell you all I know and that’s a promise. We’ve got all the time we need.

Can I help it if I’m curious? I’ve got a thousand questions Cat and probably a thousand more that haven’t come to mind.

I’d be the same way I’m sure. You know you read a book a page at a time.

True enough Cat. Sledge parked the auto next to a covered table. The one thing I know for sure is that I’m hungry.

Me too. Cat replied as she gathered up the bags of goodies and placed them on the concrete table a few steps away.

Sledge had the cooler lid off and was dipping up ice with a small scoop, Want Coke or Dr. Pepper?

I’ll take Coke.

_________________

The meal was filling and they walked together with arms around each other’s waist to a small oak, maybe fifty yards away. The turf is thick here, should be a nice cushion, don’t you think?

Yes, and just enough shade, Cat answered.

Sledge released her and with one flip of his arms the comforter he had carried unfurled and gently fell to the turf.

You’ve done that before, Cat stated as she tossed the two pillows on the comforter.

Once or twice, Sledge answered, as he settled to the comforter and laid his head back on the pillow. What’s the definition of contentment . . . its being well nourished, comfortable, and with good company, he replied not giving Cat a chance to answer.

Cat smiled as she joined him stretched out on the comforter. Sledge, I don’t know just where to begin . . . I guess first of all I should tell you we all are in jeopardy to some degree.

Why?

Because of our existence.

Sledge took a deep breath . . . Just as I thought and said before, what others don’t understand creates a fear.

Yes, an unfounded fear but a definite fear, Cat said . . . How you think people would react if they realized you had lived three or four lifetimes?"

Sledge was alarmed and sat up, looking down at her prone body . . . You know a lot more than I was willing to concede . . . How did you learn of this Cat?

Cat didn’t seem alarmed and continued to talk in normal tones. We first discovered you at UCLA over thirty years ago.

Jesus! Sledge laid back down . . . I was rather stupid to be discovered, what did I do wrong?

You gave blood at a blood drive once and when the test results were in there was total jubilation in the Council. At last, a five male had been discovered.

But how would a blood test reveal my secret? I’m just normal, no doctor has told me otherwise.

You’re far from normal Sledge, your blood was the all time prize. Your blood provides perfect genetic reconstruction in every test that occurred. Every time you gave blood through the years it was prized beyond anything of wealth.

Why, Cat.

With just a few CC’s of your blood injected, whole and pure, many sick were cured of their infirmities and went on to live useful lives. It’s like you provide the Fountain of Youth.

Why didn’t The Council contact me Cat. I may have been able to do more.

They uh, we did but in ways that seem so deceitful and in fact totally barbaric in the method, that was used.

Hell, no one has ever contacted me Cat. . . . At least not until now.

The contact made with you was brutal Sledge . . . I can never forgive myself for the part I played especially after knowing the sensitive caring person you are.

You’re talking in riddles again Cat. Why is it so hard? Just tell me the facts and let me be the judge.

Cat stood up and immediately Sledge was at her side . . . he took her by the arm and urged her to sit back down. Sledge, I thought I could do this but I’m not sure I can. I’m just not the person to do this, I’m too much involved.

Bull! I’m the one who’s the puppet on the string . . . Now sit down and tell me everything.

I can’t Sledge, it’s not for me to do . . . I thought I could, but I can’t. She pulled free of his grip and stepped aside. Sledge believe me I’m not the person to do this.

"Then keep your revelations by God. I’ll find out on my own—I want the answers Cat and if you won’t give them to me, I’ll just go to the authorities and get my answers from them.

Tears were on Cat’s cheeks . . . Sledge what ever you do, don’t go to the authorities, that would be the biggest mistake of your life . . . you’d be a freak forever, destined to the state of a guinea pig’s existence.

I’d be no one’s lab animal Cat!

They wouldn’t give you a choice . . . believe me.

I have believed you Cat, and now you have the so called Council’s permission to inform me about facts and you refuse . . . don’t toy with my emotions. I have feelings too you know.

Sledge, you just don’t understand. I think someone else should tell you the facts. I’m too personally involved. I’m too close to the source.

And what about me Cat? . . . This beautiful woman comes into my life like a well-planed encounter . . . . She’s a man’s dream. Yet, I’m bombarded with revelations that trouble my mind . . . I’m told my own existence is in peril and now you stand there and tell me you’re too close to the source . . . Well, I don’t buy it. I’ll not be wrung out like a dish rag and allow my emotions to splatter about like droplets of water. He turned and looked out across the lake. The dam ducks have more peace of mind than I do.

Cat placed a hand on his shoulder. OK, Sledge you win, just sit down and I’ll answer your questions.

All of them?

Yes, all of them.

Sledge reached out and wiped the moisture from her cheeks. And no more tears, OK.

I’ll try, Cat replied as she settled to the comforter. Sledge, I’m going to tell you something that you might find both alarming and satisfying.

Why don’t we just start from the beginning and I’ll try to be patient.

Sure, . . . . It all started when you donated blood in Atlanta many years ago. The blood you donated was given by transfusion to a cancer patient. A medical miracle occurred and this woman was sent to UAB for extensive research to determine the cause for the massive rejuvenation that had occurred. The doctor who is, and was, a member of the Council headed the research group. Your blood had rejuvenated a vegetable riddled with cancer into a vibrant woman. The aging process was reversed and she experienced a bloom of life unprecedented in medical history. Several months passed before the process of elimination reduced the cure to the transfusion. At this time the Council took action to cover up the trail that would lead to you. Records were changed—files were destroyed or conveniently misplaced . . . the paper trail was dead except for the Council inner circle.

Anyway it was three years later that the same set of circumstances resurfaced again . . . this time it was in Miami, Florida. A leukemia patient was the recipient of your blood . . . Again total cure . . . Vibrant health . . . and a reversing of the aging process . . . Our doctor was informed of the situation and spends weeks in Miami studying the patient. Again the paper trail was destroyed and your identity was protected.

Why was I protected Cat?

For your own preservation, Sledge. If the wrong people had the information available you could have become the Fountain of Youth to a select few . . . We didn’t think you would have wanted that lifestyle.

That’s for damn sure . . . my life has always been different from others . . . I could never sink down the roots that others enjoyed. My life has been spent in segments of 10 to 20 years. Then I’d have to move on to protect myself.

We all have that problem Sledge . . . it’s the one common bond that makes the Council necessary for our own existence.

So the Council protects the fours and fives.

Yes, without the Council we’d be disorganized and discovered . . . . Sledge we have powerful enemies that would make all of us their Fountain of Youth. With your blood properties known, a pint of your blood would be worth millions in the black market.

Sledge laid back and rested his head on the pillow . . . Cat, I had no idea that such a situation could exist. It’s totally unreal.

But true, Sledge . . . every word is fact . . . I’ve not told you a fairy tale, its gospel.

Sledge turned to her and rested on his side . . . What about you Cat, you’re a five. Does your blood have the same qualities?

More or less but not as powerful as yours. I maintain my age factors but my blood does not totally reverse the aging cycle in others as yours does.

Do you give blood on a regular basis?

On occasion, but only as a needed commodity.

Like when?

When one of our own is in a serious accident or a child is born uncleansed.

What is an uncleansed child?

Sometimes a child is born to a four and reverts to a three . . . all the children are checked in early childhood, if they revert to threes they must have small transfusions . . . only a few CC’s are required, maybe two or three times, then they are fine.

So you have to give your blood at the Council’s request.

"No . . . Sledge I give only because I want to. The Council is not an organization of dictator’s hell bent for power or greed. They are truly a