Brotherhood of Kurnak

By Herman Lloyd Bruebaker

Twenty thousand years ago distant star travelers came to Earth to colonize and teach. Eight thousand years later they departed for their own stars. While here they built a highly technical time passage. But when they departed the passage was on electronic control. Somewhere down through the centuries the time passage malfunctioned. Now its jerking residents from their timeframe and hurling them into another time. But nobody believes whats unraveling so United States Navy Captain Harry Warren is ordered to find and suppress the ancient device. His team must work through governmental interferences and public disbelievers while the passage threatens to implode.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Apr 29, 2015
• ISBN: 9781503561366

Herman Lloyd Bruebaker

Herman Lloyd Bruebaker lives in Riverside, California with his wife and two sons. Currently he has three major projects in progress that will be released during 2018.

Book preview

Brotherhood of Kurnak

There were few signs this new day would be any different than the last few peaceful days. But emerging from time’s shadows, Earth was about to be shaken by forces so bizarre most power brokers outright rejected their possibilities. This nightmare started when Air France’s Flight 405 departed the Charles de Gaulle airport on its twelve-hour trip to Los Angeles. Everything promised to be uneventful for her passengers. After the Airbus flew over the village of Roissy-en France it quickly gained altitude. This was normal. The mood was cheerful among its passengers as July 1, 2012 shown its bright sunny smile. Seated in First Class, Sharmila Dozier removed two thick files from her briefcase even before the flight left the airport. With a sigh of determination the middle-aged woman began carefully editing her text for a lecture before Los Angeles’ University of California science department. With coffee cup in one hand and red pen in the other, the NASA astrophysicist readied herself for the most important speech in her career.

Twenty minutes into the flight her concentration was harshly interrupted when the huge aircraft reached their cruising altitude. This occurred when the plane’s four Rolls-Royce turbofan engines began screaming as the plane abruptly executed a sharp right turn. Right after that the plane shuddered and began losing altitude. Splashing hot coffee stained Sharmila’s blouse while her notes fell onto the carpeting. There were screams from the terrified passengers as that plane roared into an emergency course change.

This frightening situation lasted only a few minutes before flight attendants began walking the aisles reassuring their passengers the plane was in no danger. Shortly after that the pilot calmly announced they had experienced minor mechanical problems and were being recalled to the exit airport. There was no cause for alarm and this was only a precaution. However, behind the flight deck’s locked door this was totally the reverse. Immediately after the incident, skeptical crewmen were hurriedly running status checks on their instruments.

Still upset by what she had witnessed Sharmila mentally wrestled with her disbelief. By the time the aircraft commenced its landing approach, she was thoughtfully observing what was going on around her. Directed to the airport’s far end the huge plane was surrounded by police cars with flashing blue lights. The plane’s crew were walking the aisles instructing their passengers to calmly disembark.

Before standing Sharmila looked out her window and observed three mechanics carrying on excited discussions about the right wing. While disembarking Sharmila’s interest was sharply enhanced when hearing fragments of their bitter arguments concerning wing damages. Before her interest increased the noisy passengers were herded into four waiting buses for a short trip to the terminal. While waiting to board the bus Sharmila noticed two uniformed policemen sharply scrutinizing the passengers as they left the plane. The astrophysicist wasn’t surprised this drama was rapidly increasing.

A few minutes after the aircraft landed French counterespionage agents arrived on the frenzied scene.

The protesting passengers were given no explanation when separated by nationality and thoroughly interrogated. In the VIP lounge the scientist quietly listened to the few passengers loudly objecting their removal to different guarded areas. It only required a few moments to note those passengers were all Middle Eastern blood lines. When foolishly inquiring why these people were being detained, the American woman was firmly informed they would soon be talking with her. Sharmila was about to object when seeing a policeman cautiously move toward her. Wisely taking a seat she remained silent until her name was called. Soon she offensively saw all non-Eastern passengers after hurriedly questioned were escorted to other scheduled flights crossing the North Atlantic Ocean.

Sharmila’s American passport and her Egyptian name attracted sharp attention from the suspicious security officers. They spent more time questioning her than any of the others. After demanding representation from the American Embassy the 29-year old woman was politely reassured she wasn’t in trouble. Their questions regarding the incident began again. Over and over she repeated what she had seen knowing they didn’t believe it anymore than she did.

Six hours later Sharmila was booked on another flight departing France. What she had witnessed quickly caused the French intelligence agents to scramble for answers. The American astrophysicist also knew they had failed in doing so.

The first pawn in earth’s incoming crisis was now positioned on the chessboard.

Chapter Two

After a carefree two weeks leave spent in his Smoky Mountain cabin, Harry Warren was driving down when a bloodied woman staggered from those forests flanking the narrow road. He quickly swerved his red Jaguar to keep from hitting the sobbing woman. After slamming on his brakes he ran back to the woman now collapsed on the ground. Checking her vitals confirmed she was in a serious condition. After quickly piling the protesting female into his car, he recklessly drove the few miles to the nearby town of Saddle Horn.

After she was rushed into surgery Harry was awkwardly questioned by a lanky deputy sheriff. The interrogation was short then he was told to sit in the waiting room. Afterwards the pimple-faced law officer leaning against the emergency ward’s desk flirted with a young, giggling nurse. The deputy showed no sign of returning Harry’s naval identification card or driver’s license. Accepting this as routine the naval captain passed the time watching early morning news on the lobby’s television. But this soon proved annoying. The screen kept turning snowy white and after a few seconds returned to normal coloring.

But he wasn’t missing much. Most of the news was negative such as Pakistan announcing the signing of another anti-terrorist agreement with the United States. Harry cynically moaned they were a little late in doing that. Across the troubled globe Moscow was rebuilding their aging naval forces. This was causing another widening diplomatic gap between Russia and the United States. After a frustrated grunt Harry mumbled so much for mutual agreements between two super powers.

What’s wrong with your television? Harry finally asked the deputy.

Don’t know, buddy, it’s been doing that off and on for the last few days. he grumbled.

Maybe you need a new set?

The deputy gave the naval a disgruntled look. I don’t think so. Whatever is causing that has other sets in town doing the same thing.

Still facing a long drive back to Washington, D.C, the man uncomfortably took short catnaps while the woman was in surgery. The deputy occasionally looking Harry’s direction would shrug his shoulders and go back to his flirting. Sometime during the next three hours a nurse brought him a bottle of orange drink. The ward was not busy so there was little noise. Harry didn’t know how long he had dozed off when a husky voice called his name. Jerked from his restless slumber Harry saw a six-foot man dressed in a dual brown uniform standing a couple feet away. Harry was immediately reminded of a tough marine drill sergeant he once knew.

I’m Sheriff Hicks. Impatiently clicking his fingers he waited until the deputy hurried over with the ID cards. He studied the cards for a couple seconds. You’re a captain in the Navy?

That’s me, sheriff, Harry said after his cards were returned and slipped into his wallet.

For a moment Sheriff Hicks curiously studied the naval officer before grimly saying. I’m confused about a couple things you told my deputy. So you’re going have to bear with me while I clear up a few things. Though the last few words were politely said Harry detected his suspicions. Now if I have this correct you stated the woman ran onto the road and you hit her?

Wrong. I never said that. I told your deputy she came out of nowhere and fell on the road. But my car never at any time struck the woman. he defensively replied.

Even before the sheriff had appeared Harry had formed an opinion about this small country town. The one-storied clinic was staffed by a few medical people. While driving down Saddle Horn’s single main street he was reminded of the old television show Mayberry. But this burly peace officer didn’t remind him of Andy Griffin. The more he evaluated this sour-mannered sheriff it was clear he didn’t have the stuff of a tough drill sergeant.

This sheriff kept tapping the one page crime report against his right leg while trying to appear confident. But he was doing a lousy job. Harry thoughtfully knew there was something in this small country town that was bothering the pot-bellied sheriff. You also stated there were no witnesses?

There was nobody around. When the sheriff kept suspiciously staring at him, Harry gesturing down the hallway curiously asked. How’s the woman doing?

She died three hours ago.

It was a few moments before Harry solemnly asked. If she died… why am I sitting here?

We were running a background check on you. And by the way, your car was towed to our local repair shop. He may be able to remove most of the blood from the seat.

Harry was silently angry at this unnecessary delay. The only way that repair shop could remove the blood was tossing the leather bucket seat. Which he knew they wouldn’t because this stranded him in Saddle Horn. His Jag would be released only with Sheriff Hicks’ approval. And Harry suspected that wasn’t happening anytime soon. The naval intelligence agent again felt an inner warning there was trouble rumbling in this township this sheriff was reluctant to discuss. Harry’s interest was aroused after glancing at his wrist watch. The captain had another problem. In another twelve hours his leave was up and he had better be in Washington.

Saddle Horn’s sheriff was square-featured with an unfriendly face and broken nose. Even from where he sat Harry smelled a heavy beer drinking man. During his short time in the clinic, Sheriff Chuck Hicks unconsciously chain smoked four cigarettes. It took no effort to analyze this man as arrogant and self-centered. If Harry had a sister he definitely wouldn’t want her dating that man.

After a short suspicious silence Harry asked. So am I a person of interest?

The sheriff shook his head. No, you’re not a suspect. He handed the report to his deputy. While you were snoring I discovered a few things about you. Such as you’re a cop of sorts? There was a faint ridiculing tone in his husky Southern voice.

In a way, Harry said still puzzled about this man’s stumbling for answers. I’m with naval intelligence. He paused before solemnly adding. But if there’s no reason to detain me I need to get on the road. My leave officially ends tomorrow morning.

Snuffing out his half-smoked cigarette the man unconsciously lit another one. Hold on to your shorts. Hope you don’t mind but I got permission from your admiral to have you to examine some confusing facts about this woman’s death. He said your leave was extended while in Saddle Horn. Also he wanted to be kept updated about this situation.

It was increasingly obvious this country sheriff was nervous about something. My office is just down the street. It shouldn’t take long then you can be on your sweet way. He sheepishly grinned. Look at this as a courtesy from one cop to another cop.

All right. But first I have to confirm this with my command. He cynically grinned. That is if you don’t mind?

The country sheriff frowned. Whatever floats your boat, admiral. he impatiently groaned.

While Harry talked with his commanding officer, the sheriff nervously paced about the lobby smoking another cigarette. During his long distance call the captain curiously noticed the TV went to snow three times. Harry was silent for a few moments after talking with his commanding officer. He was momentarily interested in the television’s reception. The captain knew enough about electronics to know the problem wasn’t originating inside that set. It was coming from an outside interference. Then after a few moments he forgot about the lousy reception and turned to the sheriff.

Apparently you have an unusual situation on your hands?

I do at that. Seeing the captain was now interested he snuffed out the half-smoked cigarette. I swear it’s the craziest thing you ever feasted your eyes on. Though I’m embarrassed to admit it, but this is couple of ladders higher than what I’m qualified to handle.

Harry indifferently shrugged. Then call the State Police.

Hicks was quick to bitterly object. Not a chance. Those greedy bastards would take credit for solving it. It’d leave my ass hanging out to dry and sure as Hell sour my voters around these parts. Maybe Saddle Horn only has several thousand people but we take our politics real seriously. In a sheepish manner he said. I was hoping you might examine the few clues we have. He smiled sinisterly.

Harry nodded with his own wicked smile. You must have an election coming up?

Not for another two years. But my daddy always preached a man should lay down his cards ahead of time.

Smart daddy. All right, what do you have? I’ll see what I can do but after that I’m shoving off.

After leaving the near deserted clinic, Sheriff Hicks proudly pointed at a shiny red 1963 Mustang parked in his reserved slot. That’s my beauty. Ever feast your eyes on such a sweet cupcake?

No, can’t say that I have.

The Ford’s powerful engine roared as they backed up and almost immediately Elvis’ ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ blared from the radio. Hicks saw him disapprovingly glancing at the radio and boasted. Hey man, he’s the king and always will be. Who do you listen to because obviously it’s ain’t Elvis?

He’s not my style.

And what is your style?

The captain shrugged. I usually don’t have time for music. But when I do it’s the Platters and some Johnnie Cash.

Snorting his sharp disapproval the sheriff drove onto the main street. Downtown Saddle Horn wasn’t a sprawling metropolis by any description. A flashing red on Mustang’s roof cleared the way for them. Harry noticed this lazy, back-watered town could easily have been transplanted from the fifties. Small businesses lined its single straight avenue with only four signal lights. Many of the people walking its sidewalks wore farming clothing and cowboy hats. There were lots of dusty pickups either parked along the street or driving through town. The heat wave embracing this North Carolina town created a booming business for their two ice cream parlors.

Harry solemnly remarked. Everybody is an individual when it concerns music. But let’s talk about your Jane Doe. I assume this victim wasn’t from around here.

Why do you say that? Hicks asked.

Well, for one thing her clothes aren’t stylish for this region. They passed a slow moving pickup truck. They’re more like those wacky fashions found in California.

No, she’s not from around here. I reckoned she was passing through?

What about her car?

We haven’t found one.

What about a purse or ID?

Nothing, Hicks said while wondering about this naval cop. My deputies checked the area where you found her. They came up empty-handed as a sharecropper after harvest time.

After parking in front of the three room police station Harry skeptically looked at Hicks. I have a feeling you aren’t telling me everything, sheriff.

Getting out of his Mustang the fleshy man with a noticeable beer belly yawned before cynically suggesting. Until you see what we have cooking don’t throw around your damned accusations. You may be a big cheese where you come from but in Saddle Horn I’m the big man.

Harry was quick to say. Do you want my help or not.

I already got it. the sheriff grumbled.

No, you just think you have. All I have to do is tell my boss the civilian law enforcement is hostile and I’m on my way back to Washington.

Throwing an amused Harry the bird Hicks skeptically replied. Yeah, but you won’t, admiral. Not after what I’m going to show you. Then he stomped away.

The second pawn was on the chessboard.

Chapter Three

Walking into the sheriff station Chuck Hicks tossed his cowboy hat on a wall peg. In passing he didn’t look at his dispatcher seated behind her reception counter. Usually there would be a deputy attending the counter but today Saddle Horn’s twelve deputies were out patrolling. While following behind the sheriff Harry noticed her cluttered desk was crowded with a police radio, computer monitor, and four phones that kept ringing. In those few seconds Harry noticed this office was about average to those he had seen over the years. On the wall behind the dispatcher’s desk was a large board listing the deputies’ assignments. The only other desk was in the far corner and that belonged to Sheriff Hicks. It was those flags behind Hicks’ desk that snapped his immediate attention. The Stars and Stripes was flanked by the red Marine Corps colors, North Carolina’s state flag, and a large Confederate flag. Even in this era the captain frequently seen the Civil War flag.

Hey Roxie, get me the file on that dead woman. Walking over to a coffee pot he looked over his shoulder. Do you want a cup or bottle?

A cup would be fine.

The nodding sheriff removed a beer can from the aging refrigerator while ignoring the dispatcher’s frown. He waited until his short, brown-haired assistant gave the captain a cup of strongly-brewed coffee and laid a folder on his cluttered desk. Hicks flopped down in a chair and thoughtfully studied this tall captain with that rugged Marlboro look. He wasn’t certain if it was his cold confidence that annoyed him or his impatience to be gone from Saddle Horn? Either way Hicks wasn’t impressed by this military cop.

After a swig of cold beer he indifferently said. Over at the clinic they confirmed Jane Doe was brutally raped.

After sitting Harry accepted the coffee cup and smiled his thanks. If you have a rape case. he replied with little emotion. Why do you need my help?

Because this rape wasn’t a run-of-the mill violation. The few rapes we had around these parts were usually relatively easy to handle. But this Jane Doe is a little off the track. In fact, Doctor Coleman found some things that were a bit scary. Pausing for several moments the sheriff looked at the naval officer trying to find a hint of curiosity in his eyes. There was none. To start off, this victim in her late twenties has the strangest blood composition our doctor has ever seen. And I’m one to tell you that Doctor Coleman isn’t one to get excited about corpses. Doc completed four tours in Vietnam and another four years in the Amazon administering medical care to their poor people. But today Doctor Coleman was excited. For a moment he stared at the naval cop then uneasily added. And that bothers me.

Am I a suspect, sheriff?

Of course not, otherwise, we wouldn’t be having this little chat.

Well, I’m glad to hear that. So what about this woman’s blood? Do you have his toxicology report?

Yes, Hicks said after opening the file and handing a sheet to the captain. The Doc said this toxicology report was completed one hour following her demise. Hicks shrugged his shoulders. I guess that’s important. But what puzzles me is why Doc was so upset about her blood cell composition?

I don’t know. I’m not a medical examiner. Harry read the one page before skeptically looking at the sheriff. But you’re right he spent considerable time running blood tests. This Jane Doe is physically unusual. According to this report she has low hemoglobin or low red blood cells. This should have introduced bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract but your doctor reports her tract was healthy. He also reported a poor absorption of folic acids and vitamin B12. Mean corpuscular volume tests showed her red blood cells were larger than normal. However, there were no signs of organ damages or negative responses from her body. In other words, these negatives appear to be the norm in Jane Doe.

The first time Harry read the toxicology report both eyebrows lifted showing surprise. Now the naval officer thoughtfully fingered the paper before rereading its contents. Blood weight should be eight percent of the body. Jane Doe had six percent. Each red blood cell should be at least one third hemoglobin by volume. Jane Doe’s counted one fourth. Very unusual.

When reading the toxicology report Hicks didn’t understood its medical terms or the Doc’s charts showing irregular conditions. But this naval officer found these conditions puzzling. Each Saddle Horn employee regarded the captain with different thoughts. With an election coming up in two years Sheriff Hicks intended to draw on Harry’s knowledge. But Roxie looked at his body with discreet lustful appreciation. After Hicks sharply looked her way she grumblingly returned to answering the phones.

Harry was disturbingly quiet while rereading one paragraph. Thirty percent of her total blood cells should be red cells or a hematocrit of thirty percent. His eyes narrowed while a faint distrust settled in. The deceased’s total red cells is lower. According to his report the deceased had no punctures allowing a release of blood. The sheriff’s attention was fixed on the naval officer now carefully scanning the paragraphs. A mean corpuscular hemoglobin test measures the average amount of hemoglobin in the red blood cells. Jane Doe’s measured much lower than the average.

Roxie was the one who critically asked. What do you mean average? Are you suggesting she’s an alien?

Harry managed to force a faint smile. No, I’m not suggesting Jane Doe is an alien. But blood compositions can tell you a lot about a person whether they’re alive or dead. And right now I have to state she’s medically a most unusual person. That’s why your doctor concentrated on her unusual blood measurements.

Not long after Doc got the body he called me. I have another surprise for you, admiral. His examination revealed Jane Doe has the weirdest lungs Doc ever set his eyes on. According to him they aren’t human. Hicks stopped talking while opening an envelope and a medallion clanged onto the desk. She was wearing this thing around her neck. I find it strange the rapist didn’t bother taking it. It has to be worth a lot of money.

Maybe the bastard was disturbed and ran away. Harry thoughtfully examined the gold jewelry. His interest was immediately aroused. He had seen similar necklaces in Egyptian museums and two years ago in Peru’s National Museum. That explained why his emotions were suddenly guarded.

Was this envelope close to any type of heat?

No. It was in the file cabinet over there. Why?

Because it’s hot, Harry answered while laying down the gold piece. This jewelry is definitely unique. He thoughtfully rubbed his chin. It appears to be more functional than decoration.

Hicks was quick to ask. What do you mean functional? Have you have seen this before?

Unfortunately… I have.

Roxie evaluated his grim expression as meaning there was something sinister about the metal. Harry was about to say something when the desk computer monitor began rapidly scrolling math equations. Both surprised men stared at the screen. When Harry unconsciously picked up that jewelry the monitor immediately went black. Roxie came over and curiously stared over his shoulders. When Harry moved the piece closer the monitor began revealing more equations. The woman stepped back as if the golden piece represented a threat.

What the Hell was that all about? Hicks nervously demanded.

Harry indifferently shrugged his broad shoulders. You apparently left a program running?

Like Hell I did. That monitor hasn’t worked for weeks. He suspiciously watched Harry scoot the medallion closer to the screen. The monitor immediately came on line with those complicated equations rapidly flashing. What are those numbers? I sure as Hell haven’t seen anything like them before.

Harry’s suspicions were aroused. It has to be a higher level of calculus. Shrugging he said somberly. But I have never seen such equations.

The naval officer thoughtfully staring at the golden triangular tried identifying those strange equations. He was equally dumbfounded why the medallion activated a broken computer. The heavy breathing radio operator attempted to reduce her fears that something evil was associated with that device.

Roxie, get your ass over there and answer the damned phones. He then gave the captain a nasty glance. When you first saw this thing did it start up broken computers? Hicks arrogantly asked.

As she was curtly ordered the woman walked back to her desk but not before giving the sheriff the finger. Roxie was worried. She knew this was how the gruff-mannered ex-Marine master sergeant reacted to situations that frightened him. But it disturbed Roxie that she had never seen the sheriff this unnerved. Hicks walking to the ice box took two beers this time. After sitting he opened one and downed the beer. Usually when he did this there was a wide appreciative grin. Not this time though.

No, they didn’t. The pieces we’re talking about were in museums and not worn by a dead woman. His face was pinched by serious concentration. I don’t know why that medallion energized your computer.

After jabbing a finger at the monitor Hicks growled.

What about those numbers? You know anything about them?

No, but I have a friend in Washington who works with complicated equations. Maybe he can identify them because I sure as Hell can’t. After scooting the jewelry from Hicks’ malfunctioning monitor Harry jerked away his finger. The medallion was now too hot for touching. But I’ll tell you this much, sheriff, this situation is weird as hell. Who or what she is… Jane Doe wasn’t meant to be here.

The country sheriff devilishly grinned. Rather gets your tits hot, doesn’t it? So in your opinion is this Jane Doe alien or something like that? The way Doc talked she wasn’t human.

I wouldn’t go that far but she’s definitely strange. His facial features were now serious. But let’s check this out before everybody starts hollering aliens.

Sounds like a good plan to me. But I don’t know how long we can keep this a secret. Somebody at the clinic will start rumors that much I can guarantee. I know my people around here real good. There’s nothing they like more than spreading rumors. He downed some beer then belched. So where do we start?

What about where I picked her up? Do you still have a deputy out there?

After Roxie grunted her disbelief Hicks angrily jabbed his finger at the phones. She was intentionally slow in answering the ringing phones.

Yeah, I have Bob out there.

Then we better get out there. Harry suggested while staring at the jewelry. The medallion now cool to the touch was suspiciously regarded by the local sheriff before slipping it into the envelope. Sheriff, you have the makings of a damned nightmare. And you better lock up that autopsy report too. After we get back from the crime scene I’ll want to read it again. Maybe then it’ll make some sense.

Roxie, did you hear the admiral? Lock up all of this stuff. The sheriff said before looking back at Harry. But before we go out there let’s get a bite at the diner down couple doors. I haven’t had a bite all morning and my belly is growling. He grinned. Saddle Horn has the best damned flapjacks and scrambled eggs found anywhere around these parts. While we’re eating you can fill my ear with your theory about this woman.

He snorted before sarcastically adding. I bet it’ll be a real hoe down explanation. Roxie, don’t forget to lock up that envelope until we get back.

Not waiting for Roxie’s reply Sheriff Hicks grabbed his cowboy hat while going out the door. He impatiently waited until Harry joined him. Let’s get a move on it. I can’t think straight on an empty belly, he sourly complained.

Chapter Four

Inside the ten table establishment they ordered breakfast then sat back. The captain initially had wanted to get back to Washington. After that incident in the station he was impatient to look into the matter. Harry drank coffee while Hicks finished off three beers before their food arrived. The few patrons were talking about the latest happening in Saddle Horn. All kinds of stories about the dead woman were already circulating with none even close to the truth. When they entered Sheriff Hicks was greeted by those at the tables then their private talks continued. Harry sensed though this cowboy sheriff wasn’t well-liked he was respected in a country manner.

Are you from around here? the naval officer asked.

Harry curiously watched a waitress bring a plate stacked with large flapjacks buttered and soggy from coatings of maple syrup. There were enough cakes on that wide plate to feed four people. The sheriff immediately tackled the food as if he hadn’t eaten in days. He was amazed at how fast Hicks ate while the red-haired waitress kept a steady stream of cold beers to their table. Harry finished off his traditional breakfast of eggs and bacon then impatiently waited while Hicks chopped through the flapjacks. The captain sensed the patrons were silently questioning why he was in their town.

Are you from around here, sheriff? Harry asked again. It was obvious the man was preoccupied with his eating. Ten flapjacks were consumed in rapid fashion while two bottles were downed.

Yeah. After twenty years in the Corps I came home. There’s a damned good life to be had around here. The people scattered about this neck of woods are hard-working and honest… most of the time. He touched his right ear that was missing its lob. A damned towel head shot this off. He grinned. But I got the bastard. Did you get over to the Middle East?

I did my time. The captain didn’t see any reason to state he flew combat missions during another war. He was silent while sipping the strong black coffee. I’ll admit this murder certainly has its interesting points. A medallion activating a broken down computer doesn’t happen very day. Wouldn’t you say so?

Spooning in his last scrambled eggs Hicks mumbled. Well, it sure as the dickens got my tits jacked up. That’s for sure. So far I haven’t found anything about Jane Doe that makes any sense. Finishing off the last soggy flapjack he laid the folk aside then wiped his mouth with a palm. So what do you think we have here?

Harry thoughtfully shrugged his shoulders. Right now I don’t have an opinion. Though they’re very rare there have been incidents involving people with strange-shaped hearts and enlarged lungs. Albert Einstein had an exceptionally abnormal brain. So that part about her body doesn’t worry me. But her medallion, well that’s another matter. After we get back I want to study it before making several phone calls.

What about those blood tests? I saw your face while reading Doc’s report. You definitely were upset. Mind telling me why?

Harry thoughtfully drank some coffee. I’ll be the first admitting Jane Doe’s physical peculiarities cannot be casually overlooked. I’m certain Washington will want to reexamine her body. But according to your doctor her heart was unnaturally-shaped. In one paragraph he noted Jane Doe had one lung with no possibility of a second one.

He waited until their friendly waitress refilled his cup, sat another cold brew on the table, and seductively winked at the sheriff before leaving. Now that is unusual.

I can tell by your expression this crime is gonna cause me some friggin’ headaches, Sheriff Hicks uneasily complained.

Harry slowly nodded. All I can say is you have one humdinger of a crime. It’s certainly one for the books.

When his cell phone rang the sheriff mostly listened before disconnecting. We better get our butts back to the office. Did you call the Feds about that medallion? he curtly asked while rapidly returning to the station.

I didn’t call anybody. What Feds are you talking about?

Roxie said the FBI came in like storm troopers and took the medallion over her protests.

When they walked into the police station Roxie was angry as a frustrated sow in heat. It took the sheriff a few awkward moments to calm her down. While this was going on Harry studied the woman. Roxie was below medium height with a pleasantly molded face and gray eyes that were presently blazing with anger. Her skin was tanned from spending lots of time outdoors. The short dress and matching brown shirt wasn’t meant to conceal her shapely body. After making a quick phone call to Washington, Harry thoughtfully sat in an uncomfortable wooden chair observing the upset woman.

Did they show IDs? Harry asked.

Yeah FBI IDs.

Did your office call the FBI? Hicks demanded.

Harry shook his head. No and that’s the problem. My boss wanted this investigation worked with no outside involvement.

Then how did they know about the medallion?

The sheriff suspiciously looked at his radio dispatcher. What did the Feds say?

They said the medallion was restricted. Roxie uneasily replied. There was something about the pair that warned me to cooperate. I was damned glad when they left. She rolled her eyes. Couple arrogant assholes if you ask me.

Can you describe the men? Harry asked.

I can do better than that. Pointing at a ceiling surveillance camera she boasted. We got that couple of months ago. There was a brief pause before Roxie said. I’ll have prints made of the two men. Will that help?

It sure will. Now tell me again what did they say?

They said something about the medallion being classified a national defense issue.

Hicks gave Harry a curious glance. What the Hell is that suppose to mean?

Harry gave him a short look then soberly said. When I called my office nothing was said about the medallion. So how did they know it was here? He watched the country sheriff down another beer then belched. How do you drink so many without puking?

Hicks flashed a silly grin. Admiral, I can finish off an 18 pack and never feel its effects. Always been like that. He paused. But let’s forget about my drinking. What ticks me off is this FBI interference? I don’t like Feds stomping around as if they owned Saddle Horn.

I’ll know more after Roxie gets those prints. My office can run the prints through national databanks for identification. But don’t get your hopes too high. I have a nagging feeling those men weren’t FBI.

Then who the Hell were they? Hicks sharply asked while grabbing another beer from the icebox.

I don’t know. While Roxie gets the film processed let’s revisit that crime scene.

* * *

This time Harry thoughtfully observed the speedy drive to the crime scene. Whenever driving down the Great Smoky Mountains Harry always took the faster State highway bypassing Saddle Horn. In fact, Harry never knew the town was here. The county was agricultural with cotton and melons being its major crops. There was something else Harry noticed with a frown. Sheriff Hicks never went anywhere at a slow pace. His foot was always heavy on the metal. Harry thought about it for awhile then shrugged. Who was going to complain about their sheriff’s speeding?

They soon reached the crime scene identified by a black and white cruiser parked off the road. When seeing the red Mustang the bored deputy left his air conditioned car and greeted them. It was already passed 99 degrees warning today would be another miserable day. After stepping from his hot rod Ford, Sheriff Hicks suspiciously regarded the woody areas flanking this winding two-lane road.

The naval captain walked to the spot where the woman had collapsed. While curiously looking about he felt a weak electrical tingling. After seeing his seriousness Hicks walked over and momentarily looked about without identifying anything out of the ordinary.

What’s bothering you? the sheriff curtly asked.

I don’t know but something isn’t right, Harry admitted after turning a full circle. How far from the road did your deputies canvass this scene?

I don’t know but I can sure find out quick enough. Turning around he hesitated for a few moments. Hey, Bob, drag your sorry ass over here for a spell, he impatiently yelled at his deputy walking toward them. It was the same officer questioning Harry at the clinic.

Yeah, sheriff, what’s up?

The admiral here wants to shoot the breeze.

A nineteen year veteran of Saddle Horn’s Sheriff Department, Bob was of lanky built with a balding head. It was obvious from his dull gray eyes he wasn’t happy standing guard on this isolated stretch of road. Bob looked Harry’s way with a well-what-do-you want expression.

How far into those trees did you search?

The three of us walked pass them without finding any sign of struggle. Bob suspiciously stared at the man. Are you sure this was where you picked up the victim?

I’m sure. That oak tree over there was my reference point. There was a short suspicious pause. What about her automobile? Have you found that?

Nope, we haven’t, the deputy indifferently answered. Each time he spoke it was after glancing at Hicks for approval.

Well, she got here some way. The question is how? Harry gave the nearby woody area a short glance. How far back does those trees go?

About three hundred yards or so.

And after that?

Just a five-acre barren patch.

He kept thinking about that electrical stinging experienced minutes ago. Let’s go take a look at it.

Both officers shrugged then followed Harry through the dimly illuminated strand of oak trees. What he found after emerging from the forest was soil black as the night. For a few moments Harry quietly stared at this unusual patch of devastation. The two county officers exchanged puzzled glances. This was after the frowning captain knelt and scooped up a handful of the loose grainy texture.

The sheriff nonchalantly waited while Harry studied the black dirt with scattered greenish grains. After smelling a handful Harry threw it down and stood with a disgusted sigh.

How long has the ground been like this?

Long as I can remember. Bob said curious why this out of town cop was worried about the black soil. In all of his years Bob had known only a few who were curious about the patch.

After Harry looked his way the sheriff solemnly said. Hundreds of years ago the Indians living around here called this place evil. They even painted their warnings on some rocks not far from here.

Do you think this place is evil? Harry skeptically asked.

Hell no, the sheriff said after laughing. While growing up I spent hours playing baseball on it. He grinned. The only monsters I ever saw was after downing too much whiskey.

I bet nothing grows in this soil, right?

Not a damned thing. Hey, Bob, remember that construction firm several years ago. They thought by using this dirt in their cement it would strengthen the buildings they were putting up. How long did the stuff last? Maybe two years then the concrete began crumbling and I mean crumbling. He gave Harry an indifferent glance. The condemned buildings were eventually torn down.

Bob droopily looked about before saying. This is weird but animals avoid this patch like a damned plague.

That’s not surprising. Harry mumbled.

Why is that? Sheriff Hicks suspiciously asked.

While talking he kept uneasily turning around. What you have here is soil that has been crystallized by extraordinary heat over long periods of time. Harry thoughtfully studied the glittering black soil while sunlight unsuccessfully tried warming its cold surface. I’m surprised geologists haven’t studied its compositions.

There were a few. Several years ago a bunch of students from the University of North Carolina were out here. But they didn’t stay long.

Why was that?

The kids kept getting sick as dogs.

What about those contractors? Did they get sick?

Several were hospitalized. The deputy rubbed his chin. If I correctly remember three or four died.

After a moment the captain said, That’s understandably. He didn’t respond to their curious expressions. While walking back to the highway Harry said. I’m going to have a geologist come down and take some soil samples. For a few moments Harry glanced at the soil with an increasing uneasiness.

The sheriff was suspicious why this naval cop was interested in the black patch. What’s this dirt got to do with that woman’s death?

Maybe nothing but I still want some soil samples. Harry was evasive with his answers while leaving the patch. Then he abruptly stopped and stared at the ground. Did your deputies thoroughly search this area?

Yeah, we did. Bob defensively snapped.

Harry sarcastically looked at the sheriff. Then how did they miss those tire tracks?

What tracks? Hicks demanded. After Harry pointed at some indentions the sheriff stooping over slowly ran his hand lightly over the prints. These were made within the last several hours. They haven’t even hardened. There was a short silence. Hey, Bob, do you recognize those tread markings?

After a few moments the deputy nodded and the sheriff explained. Those tires are on a 1984 Ford pick up belonging to Bill Dawson, one of our town punks. Several weeks ago we investigated a hit-and-run case involving Dawson’s vehicle. Those same tire markings were at the scene. Other than that we never found anything positively connecting him to the crime. Dawson is a cagey bastard always a few steps ahead of the law. But we’ll get him one of these days. Then that bastard will spend rest of his miserable life behind bars.

After wiping sweat from his forehead the deputy curiously looked around before asking. What does the black soil have to do with that woman’s rape?

It just might answer some questions.

Chapter Five

After hearing Roxie excitedly calling him Hicks answered his Mustang’s mobile phone. While he was gone Harry thoughtfully walked about the crime scene. That weak electrical tingling had briefly returned and then faded. During this time the deputy suspiciously observed him as if expecting the naval officer to make a run for it. A few minutes later the sheriff came over with a puzzled expression warning further trouble was stirring in Saddle Horn.

That was Roxie. She had a call from our morgue, he skeptically informed. Doc wants us over there like yesterday.

Have they finished their examining the woman?

No.

Harry’s forehead tightened. Why?

It’s hard to do without a damned body, The dumbfounded sheriff said after a few moments. Her body has disappeared from the morgue.

While Harry accusingly stared at Hicks the deputy mumbled something fishy was going on. Yelling at Bob to stay put until ordered otherwise, Hicks quickly got into his sports car and started the engine. The country sheriff was angrily shouting