Acceleration

by Lin Larson

  Kentucky Rose, he was pretty sure he had read the side of his boat correctly. He wondered who really owned her and what she had to offer him besides a ride. Sam scanned the compartments. The only papers were his captors’ wallets, but they might come in handy. He found snorkel gear under the seats. Scuba tanks would have been better, but the fins would help. Sam fished out a wet suit. Maybe it would all come together. He’d wait until dark and hopefully the end of the storm.

  #

  Sam was nearing Santa Barbara. He scanned the boats carefully with the cabin’s binoculars. He found it easily. The Excelsior Star was a monster of a ship and very well lit. It was also surrounded by dozens of military crafts. It was going to be tricky. Sam sat back and rolled with the waves. Night was a good two hours away, but the storm was already blackening the sky. It was definitely the beginning of the storm and not the end as he had hoped for. The small boat was beginning to pitch. He was no longer seasick, however. He was in control.

  CHAPTER 35

  The sky was unleashing all of its impatience and revenge. Rain shelled the small craft and threatened to submerge it from existence. Sam stripped off his borrowed clothes and pulled on the rubber suit and gear. He sealed his clothes and Sunburn’s gun in a waterproof bag and jammed the bulk into the wetsuit. It was a grotesquely uncomfortable fit, but he needed his hands free. Sam had barely slipped into the freezing blackness of the water, when it yanked him into its hellish depths.

  Sam sputtered and nearly panicked. He finally found the surface and gasped insanely for air. The deadly ritual of drowning the human intruder, Sam, and throwing him back to the surface continued unabated. Sam’s extremities screamed with exhaustion. It would have been so easy to just let the devil win. He need merely to give up and not fight, but he couldn’t.

  He banged into the Excelsior Star with shattering force. He clawed madly for a ladder or rope as he inched along the side. Each second brought fresh beatings. Then he found it. He clung to the lifeline. He felt as close to death’s jaws as he had ever been. This death was not the loving climbing of the stairwell to heaven that he dreamed of in his childhood fantasies, but instead it was an insatiable hunger to devour and extinguish the living spirit. Sam found the strength to rebel and slowly pulled himself up the ladder.

  Finally reaching the top, Sam rolled onto the deck. He needed time to regain his strength. He frantically searched for a refuge and found it amongst the lifeboats and riggings. He trembled severely from the shock of his undertaking. His heart was pounding madly. Then his body found its pace and he was back in control. Sam struggled out of the clinging rubber and into the warmth of Sunburn’s cotton clothes. He felt part of humanity again, no longer a prisoner of angry waters. He rammed the gun into the waist of his trousers and emerged from his cocoon transformed into a hunter.

  Sam prowled the empty deck until he found the door he wanted. This one led to passenger cabins. Sam darted along from door to door, each with locked secrets. A steward asked if he could be of service. Sam bumped him drunkenly and thanked the man profusely. Sam slipped the passkey from the innocent soul’s pocket and was on his way.

  Sam began his meticulous search. Each room was carefully examined. He found out more than he wanted to know. The ship held artifacts and drugs belonging to a broad spectrum of the rich and powerful. Sam had never been a part of this population. These people had a reason for being here. It was greed. The drugs and riches were abundant. However, he saw no clues as to where it was all going.

  He had to mingle and learn more. Sam found an expensive suit of an approximate fit. He climbed into the rich material and repaired his hair and face as best he could. He caught a look at himself in the mirror and examine himself in disbelief. His face and figure were gaunt and bruised. His eyes had a hollow cold look. It fit his insides. He dabbed from the make-up jar and concealed the savages of the past. A new man emerged into the hallway of the elite ship.

  The maze of corridors challenged his patience. Where was the party or board room? Voices rose in the distance. He forged a maze of hallway and finally threw open carved wooden doors to the main event. A huge gaggle of people swarmed around him, as he aimed for the center of the room. He felt it held importance, for the throngs were deeper at the core of the huge richly draped room. Expensive decorative pieces provided further resplendency for the crowd. Finally, he reached the destination and blinked in amazement.

  The apex of the banquet room held the master plan of the noxious group. A large table, holding a large, glass-enclosed, relief map, sat in its midst. Sam studied the table. Burning flags marked military hot spots throughout the world. Each also bore a number. Signatures of the rich and famous bordered the map. Sam read with awe the names- congressmen, politicians, ex-presidents, corporate heads, military generals, actors, writers, rich corporate heads, and the list went on. Sam rocked back on his heels and studied the names closely. What did it mean? What were they all doing? What were they celebrating or planning?

  Suddenly Sam was struck by the décor of the room. He whirled around and drank it all in. Orange colored drapes, orange table cloths, orange shades on the light fixtures- were they all coincidences? Sam remembered his first meeting with Dr. Mekka and his orange cane. Were these people addicted to the medication? Were they all now obsessed with power? His insides felt queasy. The drugs were unstable just as they would be. All of these important people, did they really know what they were taking? Was it too late to tell them?

  The image of the map dragged Sam back. What did it all mean? He felt a bumping of his shoulder. Sam’s eyes traveled up to meet those of an enormously gigantic man. The guy’s frame was also heavily padded with muscle. He was a formidable sight with his long blonde hair, Adonis-like physique, and penetrating blue eyes. The presence of the huge young fellow would have made some people nervous and evasive, if it wasn’t for something he sensed. Was it sensitivity and caring? He wasn’t sure, but he liked the guy immediately.

  “Hey!” Adonis poked Sam again. “You understand all this?”

  “Nope.” Sam said, “But I was afraid to show my stupidity.”

  “Name’s Eon Gustafson.” The man extended his huge hand. “I’m a physicist, and you?”

  Sam scrambled about in his head for a name. “Adolf,” he pulled out the name too fast. He berated himself for his hokey choice, but figured he’d better stick with it now. A last name? His favorite old country singer/actor popped into his mind- “Kristofferson’s the last. I’m a corporate executive of a global company. I’m Adolf Kristofferson.”

  “I never heard of you, but then I’m usually stuck in my lab. I feel out of place here. Actually, my boss doesn’t even know. A friend had a ticket and asked me to take his place.”

  He continued on. “I know I look like a weight lifter. Actually I do like the sport, but

  science is my vocation. You don’t look like an executive, if I may reciprocate? What happened to your face, sir?”

  “Oh, you noticed. I was in a slight accident. Want a drink?” Sam reached for an orange liquid on a waiter’s tray.

  “Are you kidding? That stuff has a strange aftertaste. I’d love to put it through a chemical analysis.”

  Sam put down the glass and thanked the waiter. “You convinced me. So what’s on the night’s agenda?”

  “The President makes his speech soon. I always liked the guy. It’s going to be a big kick seeing him in person.”

  “Oh, yeah, me too.” Sam said thoughtfully. “It should be interesting; I hear he’s changed a lot.”

  “There sure are rumors, and they’ve stopped interviewing him on live coverage. All we get are newspaper statements. I’d like to see the real guy.” Eon said cheerfully.

  “Yes.” Sam said. “What’s your friend like- the one whose pass you borrowed?”

  “He’s a good buddy. We’ve been friends since college. He’s gotten a bit eccentric lately though, which is why I got to go to this. He stays in his lab like it’s his life. I usually have to resort t
o bribery to get him to leave. He claims his studies will save mankind. He’s a little naïve. Most scientist go through the savior cycle in their youth, but Hector must be a late bloomer.” Eon laughed heartily and then ran his fingers around his constricting collar. “I hate wearing a tux. Men were not meant for this punishment. Let us be free to wear grubbies, right?”

  “I couldn’t agree more,” Sam replied. He liked this guy, but he wasn’t yet sure if he could trust him. He was looking forward to Eon’s reaction to the President’s speech. He

  imagined that the guy was in for a huge jolt. Quint was bound to be crazier than ever, and where was Jensen? Sam had better be careful in this room.

  He looked around and noticed the uniformed armed guards for the first time. They were stationed by the podium and by the exterior doors. Sam had entered through a cabin hallway, so he had missed the pleasure of their scrutiny. The guys looked polished and well-dressed, but their intent was obviously threatening. Sam hoped he could stay anonymous; he really didn’t want to mess with the muscle guards here.

  Lights began to flicker in the huge room.

  “It must be speech time.” Eon beamed excitedly.

  #

  The men watched as an Honor Guard presented the American flag, and the familiar strains of the national anthem echoed through the room. A solo spotlight held the flag in its grasp, and a crash of symbols signaled suspense and a blackening of the room. A spotlight then suddenly came up upon President Quint, who smiled and waved to the cheering crowd. The light then widened to introduce Sam’s old adversary, Mr. Silas Jensen. The masses quieted as Jensen spoke. His words became almost hypnotic. Jenson’s changed, Sam thought ruefully. The man had clearly learned the game well; he was a controller now and a rather enigmatic one. He was now all the more dangerous. Jensen spoke in a low smooth voice.

  “You have been chosen. You are privileged to be given the new medicines that will enhance your innate abilities beyond your wildest dreams. With your new skills and leadership, we will guide the world to new levels. Your President and I salute YOU!” President Quint and Jensen raised their arms in Nazi salutes.

  They lowered their arms as Jensen continued. “The torches we planted on the map will blaze and destroy the world’s Sodom and Gomorrahs. We will show the world what needs to be done by doing it. Then they will turn to us, and we will be ready. You all are doing your parts. God be with you.”

  Jensen smirked with glee and continued. “We will join hands now and form our ring of brotherhood to our mighty country. President Quint is ready, are you? Say YES with passion countrymen and leaders.”

  The throngs responded with a unanimous “YES!” The room rumbled with shuffling as the people formed their circle with Jensen and Quint stepping into the center.

  “Louder,” Quint took over and glowed with his fanaticism. “I can’t hear my people!”

  “Yes!” They shouted as one.

  Quint’s voice boomed, “Much louder if we are to be more powerful than the forces which threaten our very lives.”

  “YES!” They screamed in answer.

  “Be ready and take your positions outside by the railings. Lift up your glasses as one and let us propel them overboard to symbolize our attack against the violence by the sheep. We will guide them. Now, countrymen and ladies, throw your drinks into the sea. Go!”

  Dignitaries rushed out to outer corridors of the ship and packed against the railings. They whooped with zeal as they pitched their glasses into the raging wind and turbulent waters. Rain drenched their designer clothes, but they were unaware and uncaring. Their only focus was on returning to the room and their circle.

  The spotlight came up once more on Jensen and Quint.

  Jensen spoke again. “Boats will now take you ashore and planes will carry you over this great country to your destinations, to await the signal.”

  President Quint grabbed the microphone. “I accept your leadership and I am ready, my sons and daughters.”

  Lights blackened the room. When they returned, the room was illuminated without the big bosses in the center. The crowd whispered in awe and then dispersed noiselessly.

  Gustafson spoke first and broke through the heavy air in a low voice. “Shit, did I hear what I thought I heard or am I dreaming?”

  “You heard right,” Sam answered. Yep, he could trust Eon. It was no act. The man was as shocked and disgusted as Sam.

  “Let’s get out of here. I have to think.” Eon said as he breathed heavily.

  “Calm down. I have to learn more first. Are you with me? I want to learn what the signal is?”

  “I don’t’ know. I feel like my life just fell apart.” He turned toward Sam. “Why aren’t you crazy like the rest of these people?”

  “Because I want to stop them, and I’m not taking the drugs. These people wouldn’t be so cooperative normally. They’ve been slowly medicated into submission. They’re going to all die. I have to stop it. Do you want to help?” Sam looked at Eon gravely. “We’ve got to try.”

  “Yeah, I guess, but I’ve never been a hero before.” Eon smiled nervously.

  “Maybe no one will give either of us a medal, even if we succeed. Will that bother you? And you may die?” Sam said.

  “Now that last part may just annoy me.” Eon said as he shook his head in disbelief. “How do you know you can trust me?”

  “I don’t,” Sam shrugged, “but I’ve got to trust somebody. Welcome aboard the suicide mission.” Sam extended his hand.

  “Eon shook it gloomily. “Do you have to put it like that, Adolf?”

  CHAPTER 36

  “See what you can find out,” Sam said to Eon. “If all goes well, I’ll meet you at the Macaw on the beach at 7 A.M. It’s a little restaurant. I think it’s still there. It’s been a few years since I’ve been there. By the way, I’m not Adolf Kristofferson. I’m really Sam Stone. Good to meet you, Mr. Gustafson.”

  Eon grabbed Sam’s arm as he turned away. “I’ve heard of you. Aren’t you dead? And a murderer?”

  “Reports were a gross exaggeration.” Sam said.

  “Clever line, but I’ve heard that before too.” Eon teased.

  Sam raised his eyebrows and laughed. “Really? Here I thought I was being original. I’m not a murderer or obviously dead. Jensen is a huge liar.”

  “I believe you there,” said Eon. He looks like a smooth and simpering con job. Is that who beat your face?”

  “Yes, but I escaped,” said Sam quietly. “Thanks for believing me. Ah, Mr. Gustafson, may I call you by your first name?”

  “Please do, Sam. There, we are friends at a horrible event.” Eon said sadly.

  “Eon, be careful. These people are dangerous.”

  “Where are you going?” Eon asked.

  “I’ll let you know after I do it, if I live through it. I’ll look forward to seeing you later though. It’s good to have a friend.”

  They shook hands, and Sam took off. Sam headed for the crowds and was swallowed up. He made his way back to the cabins. Some passengers were staying on board. Sam planned to find out who and why. He wanted to do a meticulous search, if possible.

  A boisterous group entered the hallway. Sam lowered his head and headed for the linen closet. He dodged the group and plunged inside. He listened to the garbled chatter. He understood nothing so far.

  Sam was startled when the door opened and revealed a stunned young cabin steward. Sam quickly feigned drunkenness.

  “This is my cabin, have you come to visit?” Sam slurred.

  “Sir, let me help you to your room. It’s not this one. Do you have your key?”

  “The one with those pretty orange numbers, no,” Sam stammered,

  The boy helped Sam from the closet.

  “I think it’s that one.” Sam stumbled on the floor and crawled around sobbing. “But I lost my key, I can’t find it.”

  “I’ll open it… here.” The door was ajar now. “Let me help you up,”.

  “Thank you, young man. I sh
all remember your name? What is it?” Sam mumbled as he was helped up.

  “That’s kind of you, Sir. I’m Fernando.”

  He helped Sam onto the bed. “Will you be all right or should I get help?” Fernando asked earnestly.

  “I’ll be fine.” Sam curled up on the bed

  “Sir, here’s the pillow. It’s at the wrong end of the bed.,” He said politely.

  “Thank you. Every bed needs a pillow. I’ll sleep now.” Sam closed his eyes.

  Fernando quietly left the room.

  Sam sprang up and searched the room. It belonged to some Colonel, according to the name on the suitcase. Sam pried it open. Neat, the guy was very neat. Everything looked carefully placed, including a large envelope of papers. Inside were rosters of military and civilian personnel and code names. Codes? For civilians too? He flipped through the pages. There must be thousands of names here. One caught his eye, Silas Jensen, code name- Savior. Sam wanted to choke on that. It should say Devil. He scanned the list with apprehension. No Gustafson. Good. Sam’s head came up from the papers. Voices were talking by the door. A key turned in the lock. Sam pitched the suitcase shut and leaped into the small shower stall.

  “Silas, we may be moving too fast for Quint.” The voice resonated with military authority.

  Sam’s heart seemed to be exploding in his chest. Jensen was here! He had chosen the right room. Maybe luck was going to sit on his shoulder now.

  “Quint will be fine.” Jensen responded. “We’ll be meeting at the bunker in Idaho on the day after tomorrow. He’ll activate the nuclear missiles then. Our personal crew will replace the ones at the site. Quint also will broadcast to the nation from there. I need you to coordinate the event and the replacement of personnel. You do recall the plans, Colonel Pedrosky?”