Seeds of Evil

by Robert Kitchen

  Another windswept day darkened Black’s humour as he approached the Scott residence. Turning his collar to ward off the driving rain he approached the entrance, smiling as the policeman opened the door. ‘Come in, come in Nick out of that weather. My goodness but it’s typical weekend stuff, is it not?’

  ‘Can’t argue with you there old man,’ answered Nathan.

  ‘Thought you went home for the weekend. This is a rare surprise, sit yourself down and I’ll make us a cup of tea.’ Black studied the man’s face and wondered why a person with such an astute brain should choose to become an under-achieving wimp. He had listened to the sergeant’s complaints regarding a lifetime’s degradation. Of abhorrent colleagues and missed opportunity. Of the endless times that he had been overlooked when promotions were being meted out. The man was an enigma. He had a brain, which made his work-mates look like the Keystone Cops. Yet here he was with no more ambition than the nurturing of a private ridicule for those who chose to deride him. Black could not understand the futility of Scott’s existence. The man was content to bask in the success of solving complex crimes, then joyfully watch the amateur blunderings of those around him. After much soul searching his mind was made up, his enigmatic friend had become expendable. He harboured no malice toward the man. On the contrary he had a great deal of respect for the fellow but the simple truth was, Maurice Scott had become a liability. It would be a simple task for him to put two and two together and come up with the name Carver, Black’s alias. Once he began to delve into the crimes committed by a serial killer, which Nathan knew the policeman could not resist, It would only be a matter of time before he tied the murders to his new friend. Unfortunately for Maurice Scott, his demise was as inevitable as death itself. Black smiled at the thought, it has come a little sooner than expected. ‘No time like the present,’ he quipped smugly. A plan had been hatched on the evening of his stopover at Scott’s. Quite simple really, he had decided at the time. He wanted to dispense with the policeman as quickly as prudence would allow. After all he had other more important business to attend to. Here he was merely a few days further down the line and about to put his plan into action. Nobody had witnessed his arrival, he had made certain and there would be no trace of his ever having set foot in his victim’s home. The first objective was to inebriate the big fellow. No easy task but he was confident in his ability to achieve the desired result. Nathan smiled, stealing a peek through the window at the worsening weather. It was literally coming down in sheets now. Bursting into a wide grin he concluded that the gods had conspired to make his task a success. Several hours passed before Scott began to slur his words. He assumed the melancholy frame of mind that the hard done by often revert to, as hard liquor begins to take effect. Encouraged that things were going as planned, Black plied the other with more alcohol and almost without warning Scott passed out. Phase one of his plan was complete but he pushed and prodded the policeman to make certain that the great oaf was completely under the influence. Satisfied that the other would not stir, he casually proceeded through the house opening windows both upstairs and down. Preparations completed he checked his watch, ‘Eleven twenty, excellent,’ he murmured. From his pocket he removed a bottle which contained ether. Having thoroughly soaked a handkerchief with the liquid he callously placed it over the helpless victim’s mouth. The Irishman’s breathing became deeper assuring that the baying of the hounds of hell would not revive him from his slumber. Taking a blazing coal from the fire he placed it on the carpet at Scott’s feet. Investigation of the incident would result in the natural assumption that the death was a tragic accident. A burning ember had fallen from the fire unto the carpet thereby bringing about the unfortunate Scott’s demise. Black used some added insurance to make absolutely certain. Taking the whiskey bottle, he poured the remainder of it’s contents over the smouldering brand. With a malicious smile he watched as the liquid ignited. Within seconds the fire had transformed into an inferno. To further his cause, he opened the rear door causing a draught,which gave the fire sustenance. Seeking further nourishment the conflagration began hungrily sucking in the night air. Seconds later the flames began licking at the fringing of the sofa seeking more fuel to satisfy it’s hunger. All the time the hapless policeman lay prostrate unaware of his impending fate. Satisfied that the fire had taken hold, the murderer closed the rear door, safe in the knowledge that open windows would nurture the flames. Without a second glance at his innocent victim, Black retreated from the house, closing the door behind him. Nathan Black had committed his first murder. Pondering on the act he concluded that it had been simple. He felt no remorse or elation for the taking of a life, it was merely something that had to be done.

  As he had correctly assumed the investigation was a formality. After a fire department inspection had been completed, the fire was deemed to have been accidental. An investigator expertly pieced together all the events leading to the cause of the fire and having professionally categorised available relevant data, arrived at the totally wrong conclusion. The entire house was ablaze before the alarm had been raised. Fire fighters battled stalwartly to contain the inferno but it was a hopeless task. Fortunately the wind was blowing in a direction, which kept the sparks and hot debris from endangering neighbouring premises. A wind of gale force proportions ensured that the dwelling was razed to the ground. When they finally managed to extinguish the fire the house was merely a shell. The body of Maurice Scott was unrecognisable and had to be identified through dental records.

  A signet ring that his mother had given him for his twenty-first birthday was melted into what remained of his hand. At the ensuing inquest the coroner returned a verdict of accidental death. Maurice Scott merited a few lines on page five of the Belfast Telegraph, ‘Policeman dies in house fire.’ Ironically a fitting epitaph for a man of minimal significance in a malevolent society. Nathan merely shrugged when he read the article, it was as he had expected. Dismissing the policeman’s death from his mind he set about formulating the first stage of his crusade.

  Aldergrove, Belfast International Airport was his initial destination and then onward to London. He had equipment to purchase. Bank accounts to open, vital details to research. Murders to plan. Mr. George Blackmore was about to rue the day that he ever affiliated himself with the paramilitary organisation known as the UVF.

  CHAPTER 19

  Being commanded to attend a meeting with his superior had recently become a regular occurrence but this time there was a distinct difference. On this occasion, John had removed the covering from the younger man’s face. Clements blinked, then opened his eyes slowly, allowing his vision to adjust to the light. ‘What’s goin on here?’ he asked warily. ‘Who the fuck are you? Where’s the boss?’

  ‘Easy Billy boy. So many questions without waiting for the answers. Clements recognised the rural accent. Aware that he was in the presence of one of the most powerful figures in the organisation, an air of caution controlled his conversation. ‘Sorry John I had no idea it was you. What’s the meetin for? Why so little notice? Is somethin wrong?’ He chose not to question the removal of his blindfold. ‘There you go again, slow down. Take a seat and all shall be revealed,’ replied John, crossing the room to take a comfortable leather seat, which took pride of place in the room, before a raging coal fire. Clements eyed him warily, attempting to gauge his mood. Running a critical eye over the commander, he was less than impressed with his observations. John was diminutive, approximately five foot six or seven inches and slightly over weight. The man could not be held responsible for an accident of birth but there was, in Clements’ view, no excuse for obesity. He was thinning on top, conservatively dressed in a sports coat and trousers. Just the type of prick you would find behind the desk at the dole, thought Billy.

  ‘You are still on your feet son. Are you not staying?’ asked John, the hint of a smile playing on his thin lips. He was enjoying the other’s obvious discomfort. ‘Oh yeah,’ answered Clements sheepishly re
alising that he had been caught staring. Feeling slightly inadequate, he looked around for a suitable place. ‘Sit wherever you please son, there are no particular reserved places. Obediently the younger man took the nearest seat and waited for the other to begin. John studied his subordinate for what seemed an age before commencing with the conversation. ‘I take it that you read the papers on Thursday evening?’

  ‘Aye I did that John,’ affirmed Clements, already anticipating the reason for the meet.

  ‘What was your first impression of the debacle?’

  ‘Don’t know what you mean John,’ replied Billy cautiously.’

  ‘It was a complete shambles son. That was my opinion of the affair,’ he spat. ‘What was yours?’

  ‘Oh, I thought that the RUC. were talkin a load of balls. There is absolutely no way that it was a common robbery.’

  ‘Is that what you think Billy? Why would you come to that conclusion son?’

  ‘Simple, they would have been eejits te rob yon particular post office in the first place. There were four people involved, Christ they would hardly have taken enough te pay for a good night out,’ replied Clements with conviction. Then there was the postman what’s his name? Aye Riley. Why would they deliberately shoot the poor bastard? Eyewitnesses said that he did everything that was asked of him. In fact he gave the attackers no problems at all. Now if he had tried te put up a fight or even refused te turn over the cash, ye could understand him gettin topped. But he didn’t do a damned thing te get the team mad. As the witness says, one of the guys went up te him, put a gun te his head and deliberately blew him away. ‘No that was a hit, pure and simple and whatever cash they managed te half inch was a bonus. And another thing, no fucker in his right mind wud risk life in gaol for a few measly quid, not if he didn’t have te, and the prick that killed the guy didn’t have te,’ concluded Clements.

  ‘Very astute, you seem to have a grasp of the situation and as it turns out you are one hundred percent correct. Well done Billy. Was there anything else which helped you come to your conclusion?’ enquired the commander, eyeing the younger man intently. Billy became uneasy, sensing something sinister in the interrogation. He was decidedly apprehensive at the direction the conversation was taking. ‘I’m not sure what ye’re gettin at John,’ he countered.

  ‘Come come now Billy, there must be other reasons behind your assumptions. What about the methods used during the attack?’

  ‘Yes well there is that too. As ye know I have been involved in a few jobs which were carbon copies of this one. Then last but not least, the personnel. We both know where yer man Black-more hangs his hat. Feeling slightly more confident Clements continued with his summation. ‘Before I went to Spain for the match, ye were pissed off with me for not informing ye about my plans. Forgive me if I’m wrong but I believe that ye set up the hit on the postman. Ye okayed Blackmore’s plan. If I had been available it would have been me who headed up the op. Am I right John?’

  ‘I knew from the moment I clapped eyes on you that you were a bright lad. A wee bit rough around the edges but as straight as an arrow. I happen to agree with every word you have said Billy. So to business, you are wondering why I brought you here. Simple really, I trust you and I need your help. In my opinion the operation was compromised. We may have a tout in our midst. To prove how much faith that I have in you I have let you look at my face. Only a small band of volunteers have had that dubious privilege. You Billy, will have to find out for certain that the mission was interrupted by accident. If on the other hand it was compromised, then we have a serious problem on our hands. Do you understand what I am saying son?’ murmured the commander earnestly.

  ‘I don’t buy it John. I hear what you are sayin but it doesn’t make sense,’ argued Clements, preparing to list his reasons for scepticism.’ John listened intently to what he had to say and despite his reservations grudgingly agreed with most of the younger man’s arguments.

  ‘My confidence in your ability is not misplaced Billy. I am sure that you will carry the investigation to a satisfactory conclusion. I never, for a moment, questioned the integrity of George and the three volunteers who died on the mission. That was never an option. What worries me is the possibility that people they associated with may not be totally loyal, especially Blackmore’s friends. Don’t get me wrong Billy,’ he quickly added. ‘I would trust George with my life but I am not so sure about his other half. In the interest of security it would be best if you could eliminate her from a possible list of suspects.’

  ‘Christ John you don’t think that…’ Clements was cut off mid sentence.

  ‘Listen son, I don’t suppose anything. Facts are all that concern me. We have to get to the bottom of this mess as quickly as possible. Mrs. Blackmore is probably as pure as the driven snow, we just have to prove it. The lady and her brood have been offered a short break in London. Hopefully she will accept our invitation and be over there very shortly. I would like you to have a wee word with her. Another member of the organisation will accompany you and between the pair of you I am sure that the truth shall be ascertained.’

  ‘May I ask who my partner is John?’

  ‘But of course, I believe that you and he are acquainted,’ smiled Starrett. ‘It’s Fairchilds, Carter Fairchilds.’ Clements head snapped up at the mention of the name. The reaction did not pass unnoticed. ‘I see you haven’t forgotten him.’

  ‘No I haven’t forgot him nor am I fuckin likely te. The man is an animal, he should be wearin a leash,’ snarled Billy. ‘What use is he to me, the fucker’s certifiable.’

  ‘It is up to you to keep him under control. He has his uses Billy. Without question a very valuable team member, whether you chose to agree or not. He follows orders without question or argument Billy. Think upon him as insurance. There is a possibility that Clara may inform some undesirable of her trip. You take my meaning? Carter has instructions to watch your back. He shall be right behind you from the moment you arrive at Heathrow. You can make the initial contact with George’s wife. Put her mind at ease, let her know that she has friends. Do not divulge any information, especially regarding her husband’s affiliation. Gauge what her reaction is when you introduce yourself. I have no doubt that you shall suss out the situation when the time comes. You leave tomorrow evening. Fairchilds will make contact once he has insured that you have not been followed. A couple of friends have unselfishly agreed to put you up. Carter will take you there. By the way, the couple wont ask you any questions. Don’t feel obliged to offer an explanation. Be as polite as I know you can be. Above all, do not forget to thank them for their generous hospitality and assure them that you will only trouble them for a few days. That’s all there is to be said, on your way son and don’t let me down.’

  A buzz of excitement tingled at Nathan’s spine as he drove past the Blackmore household for the first time. It was a smallish bungalow, set back from the road, with grounds surrounded by tall conifers, affording total seclusion. Rain had been pouring for days with no imminent forecast of a let up. The mood around Belfast was sombre. People stayed indoors during weather such as this, preferring to sit glued to the television, rather than venture out into the night. They were only too aware of the wind’s ability to chill a person to the bone and rain that could penetrate the sturdiest of winter garments. He parked the car in a lane, ensuring that it was obscured from prying eyes. Bracing himself against the howling gale he set off in the direction of the Blackmore’s home. Casually ambling along the street, hands thrust deep into his pockets, Nathan could have been mistaken for a resident out on an errand. As he drew level with the house, he gave a furtive glance toward the dwelling opposite and was pleased to see that the house displayed no sign of habitation. Certain that the street was also bereft of humanity, he speedily entered the garden. Secreting himself behind one of the conifers, Black allowed himself a few moments to take stock of the situation. Aware that he may have been
observed by the house’s inhabitants he stood stock-still awaiting a reaction. None was forthcoming, so he stealthily edged forward toward the bungalow. Taking measures against detection he circled the residence searching for easy access. No burglar alarm was apparent which assisted in boosting his confidence. Although the night was black as pitch it was still early evening so he reasonably assumed that the family were not at home. He was undecided, should he wait for their return before following them into the house? Or simply leave, returning later to gain entry. The rain had increased it’s intensity forcing him to opt for the latter. He was about to retrace his steps toward the driveway when he noticed the milk bottles standing empty at the patio door. One contained a note. He glanced toward the street before hurrying to retrieve it. Hastily pocketing the paper he returned to his hiding place behind the tree. Seeing that the street was deserted he exited the Blackmore’s property and ambled back to the vehicle. Once inside Nathan resisted the temptation to linger. He was becoming excited, enjoying his new vocation. He congratulated himself on his self-composure by resisting the temptation to read the note immediately. It would be much safer to wait until he was within the confines of his own home. ‘You are becoming quite the professional Nathan,’ he complimented himself, as he pulled away.

  Calmly Nathan poured a brandy before turning his attention to the note. The letter instructed the delivery person to leave no milk for the next three days. Black reread the message twice before balling his hand into a fist and punching the arm of his leather chair. His plans had been temporarily thwarted. The urge to inflict pain was overpowering almost as unbearable as the agony he wished to inflict upon the Blackmores. He needed to do it now, not in three days time, he lusted for it now. The glass was raised halfway to his lips when a new idea took hold. Slowly he lowered it as a smile began to crease his face. ‘Why am I angry?’ he chided himself. ‘The bitch has given me a perfect opportunity. No milk for three days. Ample time to enter the house and prepare a proper reception for the stupid bloody cow,’ he told himself. It would be much more exciting, coming and going as he pleased and it would be all the sweeter when the moment finally arrived. Enough information had been gleaned. He resolved to revisit the bungalow the following evening, taking with him the equipment required to carry out his objective. Having decided upon a plan of action, Black retired to enjoy an uninterrupted slumber.