Part 222: The Plan

Sawyer waited in line at the counter inside the Roller Blade Heaven roller-rink. After the old bald man in front of him finally got his hot dog, he stepped forward. The large man behind the counter was waiting to take his order; his name tag said Hurley. “Can I help you, dude?” he asked.

“Yeah, cup of Orange Sherbet.” He smiled.

“Dollar, twenty five,” he replied.

Sawyer pulled out his wallet from his back jean pocket and fished for money. All he had on him was twenties. “Can you break a twenty, fat ass?” he asked.

“Excuse me?” Hurley scoffed.

“Oh, geez, I am sorry,” the southern man winced, then got serious, “What I meant to say was, can you break a twenty, LARD ASS?”

Hurley stared at him and then took the money. “Yeah, I can break a twenty.” He sighed.

“Thank you.” Sawyer smiled.

Hurley gave the man his change and then turned around, to get the Orange Sherbet cup behind him. He gave him a spoon and put it down on the counter. “Enjoy it, Jethro.” He muttered.

“Bite me,” he said, taking his treat.

Sawyer slowly ate smalls chucks of the sherbet as he walked down to the area of the roller-rink. Natasha was already on the floor, skating in tune with ABBA’s S.O.S. playing over the loud speakers. She waved to Sawyer as she skated by, wearing her blue biker shorts and a jersey with a Batman symbol on the front. As the southern man approached one of the railings to the roller-rink, he saw a familiar person playing Dig Dug by the far wall. Jack was talking to Kate who then put on her skates and started to sail out into the skating area, waving to the southern man as she did.

Sawyer continued to eat his sherbet as he walked over his old friend. Jack was in a full blown doctor’s OR scrubs, playing the video came. “Jack-ass-tactic.” Sawyer chuckled.

“Sawyer-enomics,” Jack replied, “What brings you to Roller Blade Heaven?”

“I like to hang out here on occasion,” he said, slurping his spoon, “What brings you?”

“I like the atmosphere.” The doctor said, taking a lollipop out of his pocket and putting it in his mouth.

“I like the scenery.” He said, watching Kate skate by wearing daisy dukes blue jeans shorts and a muscle shirt that said Cecil Say Relax on the back.

“You ever thought of getting out of this burg?” Jack asked.

“Hell, naw. I like it here.”

“I do. Man, I hate these place. Nothing but mysterious and monkey crap I don’t understand. It’s like a bad action movie.”

“I like bad action movies,” Sawyer smiled, finishing his sherbet.

“You would,” Jack then grunted as he died in the video game, “Dang it. You got a quarter?”

“Hey, man, you’re a doctor, why you bumming a quarter off of me?”

“Sawyer, hospital only pays me in lollipops, you know that.” Jack said as if it was painfully obvious.

“Jackass, you need another line of work, “ he said, giving him a quarter out of his pocket.

“Everybody loves the doctor, Sawyer. That is why the girls like me.”

“The girls like the bad boy too, doc. That is why they like me.”

“No, bullcrap,” Jack retorted, “They like you only when I am not around.”

“Them’s fighting works, amigo.” Sawyer pushed him.

Then they heard two sets of roller skates come to a stop near the railing next to them. Natasha and Kate looked at the two men and laughed. They giggled like school girls who just got off for the summer. “Having fun, girls?” Jack asked.

Natasha and Kate didn’t respond; they just kept laughing. Sawyer smirked. “Kinda one sided, ain’t they?” he asked.

“You wanna see something cool?” Jack then said.

“Yeah, what?”

Jack then pulled out a large size Snickers bar. He then held it up to Kate and Natasha who fought for it like little kids. He eventually dropped it in their hands. Kate was the first open it up and immediately started to chomp on it. Then she gave him to Natasha who proceeded to eat it and then rub the chocolate all over her lips. “Girls will do anything for chocolate.” The doctor chuckled, looking at them swooning over the simple candy.

Sawyer then pulled out his cigarettes and as he lit one up, he looked at Natasha and Kate. A thought donned on him. “Yo, Jack?” he asked.

“Yeah, man?” the doctor responded.

The southern man pointed to the two women. “Which is my girl and which is yours?” he asked.

Jack looked at them, and then laughed. “Hell, I don’t remember,” he cackled, “In the end, does it matter?”

“SAWYER!” someone screamed over the loud speaker, interrupting the 70’s music.

The southern man held his ears, reeling from the loud voice causing his ears to bleed. “SAWYER!” the voice screamed, “WAKE UP!!”





“Huh, wha?” Sawyer said, back in the caves.

Natasha was patting him on the cheeks. “Sawyer, wake up,” she urged, “ Sayid is about to tell us what the plan is.”

“Good,” he grunted, “help me up.”

Jenny over heard what he said and walked over, helping him up with Natasha. The teenager and the brunette walked over to the group gathered around Sayid. He was holding the map drawn to him by Kellye. “You with us, Sawyer?” he asked.

“Just start talking, Saiheeb,” he sat down, “I’ll listen.”

Sayid held up the map. “The plan is this,” he started, “Our friends are being held as hostages here. This is the North end of the camp, which is where they will expect us to attack, but we won’t. We will be coming here, from the East.”

“And do what, exactly?” asked Hal.

“We get their attention, anyway possible. They will then do their best to pin us down. But at that point, I will signal a retreat and whoever is with me with whatever hostages we have freed, will head to this field here. Where the soldiers will follow us.”

“It’s a classic misdirection ploy,” McKay piped, “We lure the bulk of the soldiers into the field, where it will be laced with dynamite. When we get our people in the clear, someone will throw one of these grenades into the field. When it goes off, it will start a chain reaction that will ignite the rest of the dynamite . . .and level the field.”

“Then we mop up the remainders.” Sayid smiled, “Questions?”

“Yeah, who does what?” asked Seth.

“Mostly we were hoping for volunteers but . . .we have a few ideas of who would be most helpful doing certain tasks.”

“Don’t treat us like kids, man, we all know score,” Sawyer grunted, “Just tell us what you want us to do.”

“Seth, would you lead a group to free the hostages?” McKay asked.

“Why me?” he was curious.

“Your skill with the sword. Our friends are tied to posts. You can get them free quicker than any of us.”

“Sounds like a plan,” he shook his head in agreement.

“Danielle wants to assure that she gets her daughter out, so she will accompany you. So will Andre cause his main goal will be to get Alexander out.”

“I will help them,” Mandy raised her hand.

“Okay, now, anybody with gun skills will go with Sayid, which automatically includes Hal,” McKay pointed, “Anybody else?”

“I fired a paint ball gun,” Dutch raised his hand.

“You’re in,” Hal patted his arm.

A few other men came forward, regardless of how many guns they had. Sayid looked around and then said, “McKay will be the one to throw the grenades in. Unless we have a better thrower?”

No one said anything. Then Taylor slowly raised her hand. Mandy then immediately forced her arm down. “Taylor, no way!” she grunted.

“I can throw, Mandy,” she said, “And since McKay knows how to use a gun, it would probably be better if someone else throws it.”

“You can throw pretty good, darlin?” the bald man asked.

“I was a softball pitcher,” she replied.

“Duh!” Mandy grunted, “Back in HIGH SCHOOL!”

“Some things you never forget.”

“Hell, I trust her.” McKay said, “All right, then Taylor will throw the grenades and I will cover her. Anybody else with me and her?”

“I will,” Shannon raised her hand.

“Very brave, Shannon,” Sayid smiled.

“I think . . .Boone might have wanted to help and since he’s not here . . .I should do it.” She sniffed.

“Sawyer, you and whoever you choose will take out the surrounding sentries.”

“With pleasure,” he hissed.

“Micheal, Yolanda, Jin and Sun will head in from the South, sneaking toward the outpost, “ The Iraqi pointed, “To find Walt.”

“I can’t think of anybody better by my side,” He said, holding out his hand to Jin.

Sun translated what he said and the Korean man quickly shook his hand. “Jenny and
Raven will back them up,” Sayid finished.

Jenny smiled at the masked man. “I hope when this is over, I can get to know you better,” she said.

Raven smiled, shaking his head. The group then began to disperse. Danielle then approached her Iraqi friend. “When do we move out?” she asked.

“Tonight,” he said, plainly.

“Tonight?” she raised an eyebrow, “Shouldn’t we wait till tomorrow morning?”

“The cover of darkness will help us to lay the dynamite,” he told her, “ Then when we are done, we will attack. In sunlight or darkness, they will not expect it.”

“But these people . . only one of them is a soldier,” she whispered, “How do you know they have the resolve to see this through?”

Sayid looked at her briefly and then turned his attention back toward the group. “EVERYONE!” he called, “I have a question I need to ask and something I wanted to make sure you realize what is about to happen.”

The group stopped what they were doing and looked at him. He crossed his arms and took a deep breath. “These are not men we are fighting but monsters,” he sighed, “Monsters who have stolen our friends, our children . .even killed us. In order to do what needs to be done, you must not hesitate to kill in return. Cause they will do the same to you at a moments notice. In order for us to survive this . . .in order for us to win the day, you must be prepared to die. With that out of the way, you will conquer your fear.”

The group agreed with a huddle of whispers. Then they heard a gun cocking behind them. Sawyer was resting on a rocky post, making sure his gun was loaded and ready to go. “Got you covered, Captain,” he smirked.

Part 221: Claire's Flashback

Claire whimpered next to Charlie as they were left in the jungle by a psychopath hiding in their mists. The young musician hoped that someone would come for them soon. Jack was tough and so was Sayid. Maybe one of them could beat Ethan? He wanted to make sure Claire was okay but he couldn’t see her; they were both blindfolded. “Claire, you okay?” he whispered.

“We’re gonna die.” She cried.

“Claire, we are not going to die. Someone will come.”

“Who, Charlie?” she exclaimed, “WHO?”

Before Charlie could answer, they heard some stomping of heavy footsteps. Ethan had returned from wherever it was he went and judging by his stomping, he was severely mad. “Bad news, Charlie,” he barked,” Jack doesn’t seem to want to let go. Now you must pay the price.”

“GET AWAY FROM ME, YOU SODDING LUNACTIC!” Charlie made a lunge for him and tried to tackle him but Ethan grabbed him easily.

He quickly twisted Charlie around and slammed him down on the ground. Claire was screaming for her friend to stay alive. Ethan then pulled out a vial of a light blue liquid, and popped it open, pouring a small amount of the strange liquid in the musician’s mouth. He gagged from the wretched taste. “Just in case the doctor is a miracle worker,” he said, hoisting him up.

He then wrapped his arm around the young man’s throat and began to squeeze. Charlie fought best he could but his grip was like a steel vise. He thrashed about and Claire could hear him choking. The pregnant woman screamed, realizing what was happening. The musician kicked hard, then he kicked light and then his kicks ceased. “Claire,” he grunted.

“Charlie,” she wept.

“Run . . . “ he coughed.

There was a small wheezing sound and then silence. “CHARLIE!” Claire screamed, “ANSWER ME!”

“Sorry, Claire, “ Ethan sighed, “Charlie will not be able to answer anybody for quite some time.”

“YOU BASTARD!!” she screamed.

“You have no idea, “ he stood up, and began dragging Charlie’s body through the bushes, “Be right back, sweetie.”

Claire wept a little more, leaning forward. Then as she did, she felt her bonds had loosened. She started to tug and tug, shifting the bonds loose. Her sorrow had filled with rage, over what the scumbag did to the one man who always tried to look out for her. She grunted, rubbing her wrist back and forth. The more she did it, the more the rope loosened. Then it finally came off. The pregnant woman then tossed her rope aside and got up, running. She pulled down to the blindfold and began to dart into the woods. It was difficult to run with a pregnant belly but she had to try. Her tears came back over the loss of Charlie. But she will never forget his last words to her.

RUN.


Night time had fallen and Claire was starting to panic. She was lost in the jungle and had no idea where to go. Charlie told her to run but did it really matter where; just as long as she got away from Ethan. But the loss of her good friend and the despair of being alone in the darkness was too much for her to handle. She slowly collapsed onto her knees and began to cry. It was the only thing she had the strength left to do.

Then she heard a rumbling in the bushes. She stood up and then turned to the sound; praying to God Ethan hadn’t found her just yet. She tried to run but she had been running all afternoon. Her head hurt, and her knees hurt from carrying the baby all that distance. Claire hoped it was somebody who was looking for her. Then an older woman emerged from the wood. She turned to look to Claire and just as the Australian woman was about to hug the woman for finding her; she noticed she had a rifle. The older woman then looked at her, then toward her pregnant belly. “I found you,” she whispered.

“You . .found me?” Claire asked, “Who are you?”

“I heard the whispering,” she walked toward her, “Is . . .is it a boy?”

“Who are you?” the pregnant woman repeated.

“I think you better come with me,” she lunged toward her.

“GET AWAY FROM ME!!!” Claire screamed as the older woman grabbed for her.

Claire fought on best she get, then making a heavy scratch into the older woman’s arm. The mysterious woman reeled from the pain, then smacked her across the jaw. Claire collapsed onto the ground unconscious. The French woman shook her arm, grunting from the pain the girl caused her. She then placed her rifle down, and pulled out her buck-knife. She then kneeled down and pushed up Claire’s shirt, revealing her bare pregnant stomach. “For my child,” the old woman whispered,” I must take yours.”

Before she could cut, an arrow flew through the air and struck the rifle next to her. She rolled out of the way, hearing someone land behind her. She held up her knife to the darkness as a masked man slowly emerged from the bushes, pointing a crossbow at her head. She already knew him; the one the Others called Raven. “So you have come before me again, my masked friend?” she said, “This is of no business of yours.”

Raven fired again, barely missing her head. The crossbow bolt smacked a tree, taking a small amount of blood scraped from her head. The French woman grunted, holding her minor wound. The masked man cocked back the cord and loaded in another one, in a blind fluid motion. He had the crossbow pointed her as he slowly circled her around, getting next to Claire. “GET AWAY FROM HER!” she screamed, as he lunged toward him.

Raven then twirled and dropped kicked her across the jaw. The French woman flew back by three feet. She coughed, spitting out blood. By the time she got up, Raven already had the sleeping Claire in his arms. “It’s not fair!” she screamed, “Why can she have her child and I can’t have mine?”

Raven responded with a series of chirps. Then he ran off and took a flying leap toward the nearest tree. He left the old French woman in the darkness, screaming at him. Then her screams were replaced by the crying of a woman who lost her only child.


Emeka rested on his makeshift table, using the candles to light his reading. He never read much back in Nigeria but at the moment, time was all he had. He wished he could see his family but considering how wanted he was back home, it would be better to stay hidden. Then he heard the family wisp of his companion that took care of him. He looked to smile at the arrival of Raven but then gasped when he saw him carrying a pregnant woman into the caves. “What?” he gulped.

Raven set down the woman onto the cot, gently as he could. Emeka came to him and looked down at her. “Where did you find her?” he asked.

Raven made a sign language gesture with his hands.

“That crash you saw?” Emeka exhaled, “I could never have imagined that a pregnant woman would have survived the crash. She is very fortunate.”

Raven then made another gesture with his hands. He kept repeating it until Emeka understood. He gently rubbed his eyes. “That woman is insane,” he sighed, “Tis fortunate you arrived when you did. I could not have a forced c-section on my conscious.”

“Uh,” Claire moaned, “Charlie, . ..”

Raven grunted and made his sign language gesture. After he was done, he hit his chest hard. Emeka placed his hand on his shoulder. “It’s not your fault, Raven,” he assured him, “Had you been a few minutes earlier, you could have stopped Ethan once and for all.”

Raven made a gesture.

“Her friend is alive? How is that possible?”

The masked man made a gesture.

“This doctor must be extraordinary,” Emeka sat down, “Well, it is good, my friend. These innocents should not have to suffer in this hell hole.”

“Charlie,” Claire cried.

Raven kneeled down, and gesture caressed Claire’s head. He wanted to take away her pain but he could not speak. He hoped she would awaken and have Emeka tell her that Charlie was all right. The Australian woman then opened her eyes and the moment she saw Raven, she screamed. The masked man was jolted back as she thrust him against the nearest wall. Claire tried to get up to run, as the Nigerian stood up to help her. “PLEASE, MISS, CALM DOWN!” he screamed.

She didn’t listen. She tried to circle him and then tripped on a pile of books. When she did, she felt onto the table, and a bowl of a pale blue liquid splashed in her face. Claire screamed as she covered her eyes, feeling the pain it was causing her. “NO!” Emeka screamed, “THE ELIXIR!”

Raven caught her as she fell back, all of a sudden limp. Raven put her back onto the cart, while Emeka check his pale. He then threw it back in frustration. “DAMN IT TO HELL!” he coughed, “She spilled it all.”

Raven got his attention and made a gesture with his hands.

“I know, my friend, “ the black man sighed, “But it would take me another two years to find the rare plant. I am afraid our unfortunate guest has taken the elixir we meant for Ethan.”

Raven kneeled down again. He was worried about the effects the liquid would have on her memory. He knew she would lose it but not how bad or how much. “Ethan will have to suffer in some other way, Raven. In the meantime, it is best you take the pregnant girl back to her people.”

Raven gave him in an abrupt look.

“It’s for the best, my friend. I mean, just look at her . . .clearly she will give birth in the next coming weeks. Do you want to deliver the baby or should the doctor?”

Raven stood up and made another gesture.

“If Ethan shows up again for her, you must kill him.” Emeka put his hands on Raven’s shoulders, “I know you wanted to take away his memory for what he has done but in the end, just go ahead and kill him. He only got a one way trip for his crimes, you know that.”

Raven shook his head in agreement. In the end, he knew it was the better thing. He walked over the desk, taking a rag and then wiping the remaining liquid from Claire’s face. He then picked her up into his arms and proceeded to walk outside. “God go with you, Raven.” Emeka said.

The masked man turned and made a chirping sound to his companion. He then turned and dove into the night sky to find her friends. Emeka walked outside to watch him leave by leaping and running into the trees. He smiled; blessed that he was a friend to such a noble creature.



Several hours had past and Raven was almost certain he was lost. He hadn’t explored every inch of the island, much to his regret. He held the pregnant woman in his arms as he walked. He thought he had found him a few hours ago but it turned out to be Mole who was making rumblings in the ground like he always did. As they walked, Raven then looked to the side. He then shuttered as he felt Claire’s arms gently wrap around his neck. She smiled, sighing. “I feel so shrinky, oh, so shrinky,” she sung.

Raven chuckled under his breath. The poor woman was then in the drunken stuper created by the elixir. As he carried her onward, she opened her eyes looking at him. The blonde pregnant woman then carried the side of his cheek covered by his mask. “You’re a nice ninja,” she cooed, “I just wished you were a turtle though. Why couldn’t I have been . . .carried by a ninja turtle? It would have been something to tell me mom.”

Raven smiled and then placed her down. She grunted on her back, being carried. He gently took her hand and began to walk with her through the woods. Claire just stumbled under her drunken haze. “Can we go shopping later?” she asked him.

Raven chuckled again.

“Why thank you! I think you are cute too.” She giggled.

Raven made a gesture with his left hand in sign, quickly saying You don’t know what you are talking about.

“Yeah, I thought Van Halen was better with David Lee Roth too,” she smiled, “I always like that hand jive he did on the Jump Video.”

As they walked along, Claire started to sing the Van Halen song. Raven found it amusing; considering he never heard the song before. Then he immediately gasped, grabbing his ear. Claire let go of his hand and put her hands on her hips in a weird form of disgust. “Oh, c’mon,” she giggled, “My singing isn’t that bad!”

Raven shook her off and leaned up. He looked over the horizon and saw a bald man with a younger man. The bald man then put a piece of wood to his lips and blew. The sound he emitted was piercing Raven’s brain. The mask man grunted, knowing these were the men from the crash and Claire would be safe with them. “I feel so sleepy, Charlie Brown,” she massaged her head.

Raven gently took her arm, leading her toward the direction of the two men. Claire just smiled, half closed eyes and kept walking. Raven slowly backed away, watching and making sure she made it. When she reached them, she passed out again, while the bald man grabbed her. The two men then immediately ran off into the other direction, no doubt going to get her help. Raven smiled; happy she was safe. He then turned around and fled back into the treeline above.

. . . . . . . ……………………………………

“Wow,” Jilly giggled after she had just got done translating Raven’s sign language gestures.

The group of young adults had flocked around the ninja-clad man. It seemed like they had a minor fan following toward him; the one truly unique person to enter their lives. Claire sat next to Raven, holding her baby softly. “The moment I saw you it all came back to me,” she whispered, “Thank you for helping me, Raven.”

Raven made his chirping sound smiling at her. He then pointed toward Charlie and made a gesture with his hands. Jilly smiled and tapped Charlie on the arm. “He said he is glad you are alive, Charlie.” She replied.

“No more than me, mate,” he said, giving him a pound.

“So, Raven, dude,” Seth said, sitting to his right, “You’ve been living on this Island for what, 50 plus years?”

He should his head in agreement.

“Then . . .why show up now?” the singer said, “Why help us to get our friends back?”

Raven began to make his sign language and Jilly was quick to respond. “He said, that we offer the best chance to beat the Liberation and . . .get to Watchman.” She pondered, “It will be the only way to achieve rest for me and my family.”

“What does that mean?” Jenny poked her head up from the book.

“Yeah,” Kellye said, standing by, “Who is Watchman?”

“THEY ARE BACK!” someone screamed.

The group then turned their attention to the entrance of the cave. McKay, Sayid and Eddie walked in, panting slightly. Barbara ran to her son, who quickly embraced her. McKay looked back outside and then motioned for someone to come in. Within seconds, Danielle walked up into the cave holding too large duffle bags. Charlie then immediately poked his head up. “WHAT THE BLOODY HELL IS SHE DOING HERE?” he screamed.

“Charlie, calm down,” Sayid stood up.

“That bitch stole Claire’s baby! And you sodding let her back in the cave?”

“Her daughter is being held hostage by the Liberation,” McKay panted.

The crowd went silent. Danielle stood her ground, crossing her arms. She didn’t even acknowledge the appearance of Raven. The masked man looked at her curiously. He could tell by her demeanor that something was indeed troubling her. Andre and Flower then walked forward. They quickly asked McKay about who her daughter was in French and he responded by Andra. Danielle paused. “Andra?” she asked.

“They called her that do they wouldn’t be confused,” the Australian told her, “Their leader’s name is Alexander. Alexander and Alexandra would have been took confusing for them.”

“They. . . . know her?”

Danielle then asked them a question in French. They started to talk to her. She cried, as they must have been telling her tails of Andra and how she grew up. “My daughter is afraid of me,” she whispered, “I must find out why.”

“Who is that?” McKay pointed toward Raven.

“This is Raven,” Seth said, patting him on the arm, “Unstoppable Ninja who has come with us to defeat the evil ghost men Liberator . . .people . . .thingies.”

“How can you make jokes about this?” Shannon grunted.

“It’s how I handle stress, sweetie,” the bookstore worked grinned.

“Everybody, listen up!” Sayid called them around, “I have seen the Liberation camp and our friends. They are alive but for how long, we don’t know.”

“Did you see Walt?” Micheal asked.

“No, I didn’t but all that means he was not with them.” The Iraqi assured him.

“I take it you have some kind of a plan?” Hal asked.

Sayid smiled his special smile; a mixture of devious and intelligence. “I do.” He whispered.

Part 220: Knowing

The door creaked opened to the bunker. The group huddled together as they always did. One soldier came down with a rifle, then another. The soldier was young but he looked grizzled, like he had seen a lot in his time. Jack was worried where this might lead. “Each of you will file out one at a time,” he ordered, “Any resistance, and we kill you now.”

Jack took a deep breath and stepped out first. He walked up the slope to have three soldiers waiting for him. Frakes stood his ground, watching over what transpired. One of the Liberators grabbed Jack by the arm and escorted him down to the first post. He stood there, watching them pull his arms back and tied him there. He grunted, feeling the rope burn the skin around his wrists. Locke was the next one out. He walked up to the post and held his hands back. As they tied him together, Locke looked to his young friend. Jack just glared at him. “Still think this is my fault?” the bald man asked.

“If we hadn’t gone for the Hatch, this would have never happened.” The doctor muttered.

“All things happen for a reason, Jack.”

“THEN WHAT THE HELL REASON IS THIS?” he screamed.

“SHUT UP!” Frakes ordered,” BOTH OF YOU!”

One by one the survivors were led out of the bunker, and tied to their own individual posts. Tony grunted as he was tied to the large wood post. “Marita?” he asked.

“I am here,” she assured him, grunting as they tied her.

A wind then brushed up against the blind doctor. Tony then tilted his head as he smelled a familiar smell. He remembered that each of the survivors seemed to give off their own unique body odor. The smell he just encountered reminded him of a certain Middle Easterner that saved his life once upon a time.



Up on the ridge, Sayid looked at the camp with the binoculars. McKay parted next to him with Eddie by his side. Danielle had taken off her scope from her rifle and was using it as a mini-binocular. The four friends scoured the outpost and found their friends. They were being led out one by one and tied to posts. Eddie kept trying to lean up but every time, McKay would push back down. “I wanna see!” he grunted.

“Quiet, Eddie,” McKay whispered, “There ain’t nothing to see at the moment.”

“Well? Is Tony and Marita okay?”

“It would seem,” Sayid said, “They are being tied a post just beyond the lower horizon.”

“Executions?” asked Danielle.

“No,” the Iraqi whispered, “Unfortunately, I have seen this before. It’s a Human Fence. A scare tactic against us to prevent us from attacking them. We obviously got their attention when their five soldiers didn’t come back.”

“How the hell do you know they won’t execute them anyway?”

“Perhaps we are not a threat to them? Perhaps they have some better things to worry about besides us. I do not know.”

“I hope you are right, Sayid.”

“Mia is missing, and so is Artz.” Sayid commented.

Danielle watched them being tied to their own post. Then she opened both eyes as a young in tattered clothing with a red bandana was led out of the bunker by two men. The French saw the eyes of her husband in the young girl. After all these years, she had finally found her daughter. “AL-“ she tried to scream but McKay immediately cupped his hand over her mouth.

Sayid squatted down, looking at the soldiers. He was thankful they didn’t hear Danielle’s outburst. McKay held onto her as she stared into the distance, her eyes watering with tears. The Iraqi noticed the young girl in torn clothing which he did not recognize. “Is that Alex, Danielle?” he whispered.

She shook her head in agreement as McKay slowly removed his hand from her mouth. She gently laid down, curling up into a fetal position and weeping. McKay turned his attention back to the plan at hand. “If our friends are down there, how do we get them out?” he pointed.

“Misdirection.” The Iraqi whispered.

“We can’t attack them in that position, Sayid,” the Australian grunted, “They’ll be expecting it!”

“Precisely,” Sayid agreed, handing him the binocular and pointing to toward his right, “Which is why we will attack from over there.”

McKay looked toward the area where he was pointing. At the end of the outpost led to an evening bigger grassy clearing. “The bulk of us with lure them out there,” he pointed, “Then a small band with go in, free our friends and get out.”

“It sounds too good to be true,” McKay muttered.

“I have seen it work many times.” He smiled, “Plus we have the advantage. They will not expect me here, nor any of our other passengers that are trained in weapons tactics.”

“Okay, now what happens when we get them out there?”

“ I have a plan for that as well,” he motioned for everybody to follow him, “Come. We must depart before we are discovered.”


Locke rested his eyes and then saw a small movement in the distance. He immediately noticed the familiar black hair of Sayid and the bald head of McKay. The old man then immediately started coughing and lurching forward. He thrashed about a big, jolting his leg. “LOCKE!” Kate said.

“ John, what’s wrong?” asked Jack.

The soldiers came up to him and checked on him. Locke then leaned up, taking deep breathes. He slowly calmed down, breathing in through his nose. “Sorry about that,” he whispered, “Old body, old problems.”

“Say the word, old man and we’ll cure you off them,” the soldier coughed.

“Locke, are you okay?” Jack asked, “You know, you’re not that ol-“

“HEY, JACK!” Locke smiled, interrupting him, “Have I ever told you how much I appreciate the Muslim custom of prayer?”

“Muslim?” the doctor said confused.

“Yeah, they pray toward sunrise early in the morning. It’s there way of honoring Mecca.”

“I know all that, Locke but-“

“But I am not sure how Australians pray.” Locke stared at his doctor friend, then turn toward Tony, “Did you hear that Tony? Jack and I are discussing the praying habits of Muslims and Australians.”

Tony raised his head. Locke was talking about Muslims and Australians, which meant he must have been talking about Sayid and McKay. Jack then looked into the distance, realizing what he was talking about too. “Australians,” he coughed, “Don’t pray, Locke . . .they are people of action, not words.”

“Yes, “ He smiled, “That makes perfect sense.”

One soldier behind them looked to another one of his friends. “Did you understand a single word of what they just said?” he asked.

“They’ve been in the bunker too long.” He said, lighting up a cigarette.

-----------------------------------------,

Sayid walked down through the jungle, pushing the bushes aside. McKay held onto Eddie’s hand as they walked with Danielle bringing up the rear. As they walked, the French woman jogged closer to get to Sayid. “I wish to know what the plan is.” She asked.

“I will inform all concern parties at once,” he looked at her, “In the meantime, I need you to lead me to the place where you led Jack and the others to the dynamite.”

“What do you need that for?” asked McKay.

“Hal recovered two grenades from the soldiers. If we placed the dynamite in various locations in that field, then someone cal lop one into the field while the soldiers are there-“

“You will kill them all at once.” Danielle finished.

“Yes. It will be the only way for us to survive, because they outnumber us.”

“A foolhardy plan but it’s the only one presented to us, “ Danielle started walking into the other direction, “I will meet you at your caves, while I retrieve the dynamite.”

“Do you need some help?”

“No, I have them in a secure cave just West. I won’t be long.”

“Cave?” McKay paused, “What about this Black Rock business you told Jack?”

“That is where the unstable dynamite is,” she looked at him with all seriousness, “ I secured myself boxes to keep in a dry environment years ago.”

McKay couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “Are you saying . . .you knew that dynamite was unstable and you sent my friends there ANWAY??” he said, approaching her.

Sayid quickly put his hand on the Australian’s chest. Danielle spit and then continued walking. “You wish to argue about it now or after we save your friends?” she disappeared into the jungle.

“That bitch,” McKay hissed.

“Let her go, we have important things to worry about now.” Sayid urged him.

“I don’t understand how you can trust her, she is out of her bloody gord.” The bald man pointed.

“We don’t have to trust her. But she will help us,” the Iraqi started walking, “Her daughter is captive by the very same men who hold our friends. That will insure her loyality.”

“Let’s hope so.” He grunted as the followed him.

Eddie stared into the distance where Danielle disappeared and then quickly ran to catch up to the other men.

Part 219: The Human Ideal

John, Jack, Kate and Marita spend the next thirty minutes watching a handful of soldiers erect a row of posts in the ground. The giants would hold them in place while they secured them. Frakes kept looking back at them the whole time they were doing it. “That can’t be good.” Jack pointed.

“What the hell are those posts going to be used for?” Kate mentioned.

“Twelve posts . . .twelve of us,” John pointed out.

“What does that mean?” Hurley heard them, “You think they are going to tie us to those posts?”

“I don’t think the number is coincidence, big man,” Ana-Lucia crossed her arms.

“Why would they do that?” the large man said.

“Human Fence.” Locke whispered.

The group turned to the bald man who was sitting by himself in the corner. Tony raised his head to listen, while Marita held onto his arm. Locke leaned forward, cupping his fingers together as he looked at him. “It’s been a scare tactic used in military incursions.” He whispered.

“Well, in case you hadn’t noticed, dude, I am plenty scared.” Hurley coughed.

“It’s not for us, Hugo. It’s for the people coming to rescue us. They see us out there, tied up, they will think twice about coming into get us out.”

“How do you know your friend are coming?” asked Clay.

Locke smiled his warm smile; the smile that always told his friends everything would be okay. “They wouldn’t be putting up those posts if they weren’t coming.” He sighed.

“So Sayid is attempting a rescue?” Jack smiled, “I just knew he would.”

“How do we know if it’s Sayid?” John pointed out, “Maybe it’s McKay?”

“What makes you think that McKay would make up a plan to come get us and Sayid wouldn’t?” the doctor countered.

“God help us, it’s probably Charlie coming to get us.” Hurley sat down in despair.

“Everybody calm down,” Tony said, “We can’t buckle now. If they are coming, it doesn’t matter who came up with the plan. More than likely, it’s both of them. We have to hold on. That’s all we can do.”

“I . . am scared too.” Andra whispered.

The group then stopped talking and turned to her. The young French girl was rocking back and forth, holding her arms. Ana-Lucia looked massively confused, considering she thought the girl only spoke French. Judging by the faces of the people in the bunker, they assumed the same thing. Locke still had a smile on his face; almost as if he was expecting it. “You speak English, Andra?” he asked her.

“Always . . .could,” She sniffed, “Papa taught me . . .being with Alexander . . .and brothers and sisters . . . .I had forgotten. Being around . .you . .I remember.”

Locke chuckled, then looked to his friend. “You see?” he smiled, “Miracles can still happen here.”

-----------------------------------------------------------,

Mia rested against the wall in the computer room. She looked out the crack in the door leading outside, noticing the light was still bright. It must be mid-afternoon by then. She wasn’t sure cause she didn’t bother much with time anymore but she was worried about John and then others. She was worried that if she didn’t come back after a while, he might assume worse and try to come get her. Possibly even get himself killed in the process.

She leaned over to her side, and picked up the Coke they let her half, along with the sandwich and chips. She managed to eat most of it, despite feeling guilty over her friends stuck with fruit and food scraps. The Lakota girl sipped on the coke, looking at the skeleton named Jones sitting across the room from her. She toasted him with the coke and sipped it again. “You are probably better off than us, Mr. Jones.” She shrugged.

Then the door opened, slightly startling Mia. It was the old blind woman, named Cassandra. She walked in and closed the door. The young Lakota girl stood up, placing the coke down. The old crone walked forward with her cane. She turned directly toward Mia, despite the fact that her eyes were gone. “I know what you are up to.” She hissed.

“Excuse me?” she asked.

“If you think that you’ll replace me by the Colonel’s side, you’re sadly mistaken.” She continued to approach her.

“Look, lady, I don’t know what you’ve been smoking but I am not taking anybody’s place!” Mia stepped back, “I am going to get the Colonel access to the main computer and then he’ll let me and my friends go.”

“A very cleaver ruse.” Cassandra stopped at the consol,” I know for a fact that if you get him access to the main computer, he’ll kill me and place you by his side. He’ll let your friends go, but he’ll keep you.”

“You’re crazy.”

Cassandra then pulled out a knife from her gown. It was a rusty knife with brown stains, similar to blood. “I saw the Island with my mind’s eye, little girl,” she croaked, “And I had to stab my own eyes out to stop the pain.”

“You . ..WHAT???” Mia felt like hurling.

“The Colonel and I only know the truth here. You mustn’t look with your eyes, you must look with your minds eye. Do you want me to cut yours out, little girl?”

“COME NEAR ME . . ..and I’ll scream,” Mia pointed, “I got a feeling Colonel Fender might not like it you interrupting me from getting him the access to the computer.”

Cassandra stopped, tilting her head. She slowly backed away. She turned putting the knife back into her gown, in some kind of sheath. “The Colonel will not keep you safe for long,” she muttered, “This is not finished between us.”

The crone then opened the door and walked out; locking it behind her. Mia finally took a deep breath, forcing her heart to stop beating. She braced her head on her hands, as she leaned down on the door. She thought of the wonderful month she was having. She managed to find a nice guy that could love her, she communicates with her dead grandmother, she’s been captured by a psycho colonel who wants her to access a 50 year old computer and then just got threatened by an insane blind woman. “I wonder if granny ever went through days like this.” She muttered.

Mia took a deep breath and then walked over to the computer console, sitting down on the dusty chair. She stared at the computer screen that read the same thing it had all morning.

GOOD MORNING
PLEASE ENTER ACCESS CODE
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“It’s not morning, anymore you stupid computer,” she commented.
The screen then flickered and the words disappeared. The screen then came up with new words typed into the screen.

GOOD AFTERNOON
PLEASE ENTER ACCESS CODE
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“WHOA!” Mia abruptly scooted back from the console.

The screen changed, from what it seemed by voice command. Mia didn’t know much about computers but she did know they weren’t that sophisticated in the 1950’s. She slowly scooted back, wondering how it could have changed. She looked back to Jones, who of course, said nothing. She played with her hair, staring at the eight digits. Eight digits. She reached into her jean jacket, picking up the pad. She looked at the numbers but they went well beyond eight digits.

She started to think what the colonel had told her. The password that got them access was Sherman, the man he said trained him in the Liberation. “Why . ..why would it be someone he knew, yet this computer was foreign to him?” she said aloud.

Mia then remembered how the screen changed to voice recognition. What if it wasn’t voice recognition? Fender said there was something deep underground that augmented people with psychic abilities. What if the access code was from the person closest the computer? Mia then started to right down in her pad, everybody she knew. She grunted as she realized none of the people she knew had 8 digit names.

Then it occurred to her. What if Sherman wasn’t someone the Colonel knew but one he was just associated with? Mia started to write down all the other names of the other survivor group. None of them fit any 8 digits names either. Mia then slammed her hand on the console in frustration, making two rotten pencils leap up and down. She calmed down and laughed, seeing how she created her own impact tremor. Then that phrase reminded her of something else. What if it was an association with her and the Island? She began to write down the name she was thinking of and counted it out; it equaled 8 digits. “No way,” she whispered.

Mia realized, she had nothing to lose and it was the first eight digit thing she could think of. She slowly began to type it in. “P-O-L-L-I-W-O-G.” she whispered.

Mia pressed execute and then the words disappeared on the screen again. She was waiting for it to say some form of rejection but nothing happened. Then within seconds the monitor read something knew.

IDENTIFY USER>

Mia shrugged her shoulders and typed in MIA.

GOOD AFTERNOON, MIA
I AM WATCHMAN

Mia then clasped her hands over her mouth to keep from screaming over the fact she got access to the computer.

Part 218: Search and Recon

Sayid and McKay continued their trek through the jungle. They pushed aside branch after branch. The Iraqi thought it might be a good idea to draw a map leading toward the base of the Liberation but he didn’t have the time. He only hoped he would survive the next few days and be able to complete it. The last time he went to map the Island he met Danielle. The next time he vowed not to do it alone.

Eddie continued to lead the way. McKay huffed and coughed, then leaned on the tree. “Five minute break,” he coughed.

“Agreed,” Sayid said, leaning against a tree.

“You guys okay?” Eddie asked.

“Don’t worry about us, son,” the Australian swallowed some water, “We just don’t have your stamina, is all.”

“Stamina?” the boy said confused.

“The strength,” Sayid smiled, “As a child, your stamina is at it’s peak. Over time, the muscles make it harder to push as far as you do.”

“Oh,” he giggled.

“Eddie, one thing I need to know,” McKay looked at him, “How the hell did you know where the Liberation camp was?”

Eddie rubbed his toy and scuffed his shoe on the ground. “You won’t believe me.” He whispered.

“Try me.” The older man assured him.

Eddie took a deep breath and then held up his toy. “Mr. Kangaroo told me.” He said.

Sayid laughed at the suggestion. McKay didn’t laugh, but stared blankly at the boy. The Iraqi laughed a little bit more until he realized no one was laughing with him. “Are you serious?” he asked the child.

“He is not really Mr. Kangaroo,” Eddie told them, “He said he had been living under ground for a long time. He was lonely and the only way he could have any companionship was to talk to me through my toy.”

“How long has he been talking to you?” McKay asked.

“Since I found him washed up on the beach. I thought it was just my head but he told me he did it that way so that I would accept him. He apologized, Uncle McKay and now he wants to help.”

“Did he say who . . . what he was?”

“Nope. Just that he lives underground.”

McKay slowly looked to Sayid. The Iraqi exchanged a confused, then understanding glance. “The child knows the difference between an imaginary friend and actual voices being piped into his head,” he sighed, “Something tells me he is not crazy.”

“He did bring back his mother as proof,” the Australian sighed, “Weirdness aside, I am inclined to believe him.”

“He mentioned that this . .thing that has been communicating with him was underground. The Hatch, perhaps?”

“We can speculate later. Our five minutes, we should-“

McKay froze when he saw Sayid take out his gun and immediately point it at him. The bald man was wondering what the hell got into him. As he tilted toward the left, he then realized, he wasn’t pointing it at him; he was pointing it BEHIND him. Eddie slowly backed off and pointed. “Uncle McKay,” he whispered, “Scary French lady.”

McKay turned around to see Danielle, holding her hunting rifle at them. The older woman slowly approached them. The Australian backed off, motioning for Eddie to get behind him. As the boy got behind him, he slowly pulled out his firearm. “Where are you going, Sayid?” she asked.

“This does not concern you, Danielle,” Sayid said, keeping the gun on her, “Do not start a fight with us. Not today.”

“I asked you a question, “ she repeated, “Where are you going?”

“We are going to the camp of a group of mercenaries that call themselves the Liberation.”

“They are not the Liberation. They are the Others.”

“Look, whatever!” McKay grunted, “They got our friends and we need to know what is going on before we attempt a rescue.”

“A rescue?” she scoffed, “You are fools. Your friends are long since dead. These men are not men but butchers who steal children.”

“Our friends are alive, you mean old lady!” Eddie yelled at her, “And you ain’t gonna stop my friends from getting them back!”

Danielle looked at the young boy, understanding and seeing that his pain was real. McKay held him back, almost worried that Eddie would attack her. The French woman then slowly lowered her rifle. “The one called Seth,” she sighed, “He told me where my daughter was. I could not find her. I suspect . . .the Others have taken her back.”

“That is possible,” Sayid replied.

“Then I will journey with you.” She said, slinging her rifle back over her shoulder.

Sayid smiled, holstering his weapon. McKay then holstered his weapon and then immediately whispered into his ear, “Are you sure this is such a good idea?”

“I don’t trust her anymore than you do,” he whispered back, “But it would be better to have her at our side, then at our backs.”

“Lead on,” she told them.

Eddie took a deep breath and then began their trip back into the jungle. Danielle followed immediately behind him but McKay jogged ahead and got right by his side. She turned to Sayid who smiled as he followed her closely.

----------------------------------------------------,

Jack looked out the barred windows. Some of the soldiers were running around, barking orders at others. The big one called Brooklyn was walking toward Pristine and then she motioned for him to go with her. The doctor was worried; he saw them leave this morning in an attempt to get Barbara and the others back. However, there was no sign of them returning, nor any soldiers that went after her. Was it possible she got to Sayid first and then his friend took the soldiers out? On one side, he was happy for them. On the other side, he was worried that he and his friends would pay the price for what transpired. “What’s going on?” asked Kate.

“Nothing good, I afraid.” The doctor sighed.


Inside the cabin of the colonel, Belmont stood with Frakes, Pristine, Texas and Brooklyn, waiting for the soldier named Aaron to finish his report. Fender stared at him in disbelief. “How many?” he whispered.

“Six in total, sir,” he replied, “Titus claimed one of them was killed by Raven.”

“The freak has made his move, “ Frakes whispered.

“How . . .how could these civilians kill six highly trained soldiers?” Fender slowly sat down.

“The HOW is not important, sir,” Belmont stepped up, “But our response will be. Regardless of their prowess, these are determined people. They will be coming.”

Fender cupped his hands together and leaned on the desk. Belmont was worried that the colonel was not thinking of the upcoming attack; but still obsessed with getting access to the main computer. The Colonel then gave him a stern glare. The second in command coughed; forgetting the colonel might be able to read his thoughts. “Do we go ahead and execute the prisoners, sir?” Pristine asked.

“No,” whispered the colonel.

“Begging your pardon, sir but why not?” Frakes asked, “They took out five of our men. If they could do that then, we should respond in kind-“

“NO!” Fender grunted, slamming his fist onto the desk, cracking.

For a brief second in his moment of anger, his eyes glowed a soft red. The others quickly backed down; unsure of what the colonel was capable of doing in a moment of anger. Fender slowly calmed down, and the glow went away. “We execute the prisoners and that girl will not give me access to the main computer,” he hissed, “No matters what happens, we must not let her be aware anything is wrong.”

“And the other passengers, sir? What do we do about them?” Frakes asked.

“THEY ARE CIVILIANS!” Fender screamed, “THEY ARE NOT A THREAT!”

The others backed away from his anger. The Colonel could see they didn’t fully believe him and in essence, he wasn’t sure if he felt they were or were not a threat. Fender massaged his three day beard, thinking. He then looked at his people. “Assemble the prisoners into a human fence.” He ordered, “That should keep these others at bay long enough for Mia to figure out the access code. If not, that will make them easily to execute.”

“Very well, sir,” Belmont agreed; seeing at as semi-decent plan.

“Frakes, assemble the posts as needed, “ Pristine ordered, “Texas, Brooklyn, you help him.”

Frakes bowed his head, and motioned for the twin giants to follow him. Soon Belmont and Pristine left as well. The Colonel slowly sat down, looking at the corresponding door that led to the Awakening Room, then beyond that the main computer room. He hoped that Mia would figure it out before her friends attacked, if at all.


--------------------------------------------------------------,

The survivors had gathered around the main entrance to the cave. Kellye stayed with the other young crowd. She got the vibe that they might be the ones who make the move to help their friends tomorrow. Jilly stayed with Barbara, comforting her on the safe return of her son. Seth held the sword in his hand. He thought for a second that he might need to sharpen it but he remembered Brendon using it to slice open a tree. More than likely the sharp edge remained the same. Shannon held a group of rocks in her hands, gently tossing them to the ground. Vincent stayed by her side, offering the occasional whine. As the tall blonde tossed down the last rock, she then noticed movement out by the wrapped up body of Martin. She looked into the distance and saw a masked man accompanied by a missing member of their group. She quickly tapped Seth on the knee, then pointed. The young bookstore worker turned and smiled, “Jenny!”

“Who . . who is that with her?” Shannon asked.

The group quickly got up and walked out of the cave to join them. Jenny was on her knees with her hands on Martin’s chest. Two tears slowly rolled down her eyes. As they approached, Kristy was the first to get by her side. Seth, Shanna, Kellye, Flower, Andre and Shannon just stared at the masked man. He waved to them, doing his best to be polite. “What happened?” Jenny sniffed.

“A bastard soldier shot him in the chest,” the model sniffed, “He never saw it coming. He was coming to check on you.”

“Same ol’Martin, “ Jenny wiped her nose, “Always the protective type.”

“Before he died, he said you and Kristy were the best sisters he could have every hoped for.” Seth mentioned.

“Yes,” the young blonde closed her eyes, “I always felt that brotherly love coming from him.”

“Hal saw the guy who did. The back of his jacket read Aaron.” Shanna said, putting her hand on her friends shoulder.

“Aaron,” Jenny whispered, “I’ll remember that name. I take it . . .there is some kind of a plan emerging? Did Eddie and his friends make it out okay?”

“We arrived, thanks to you,” Kellye said, extending her hand, “Kellye.”

“Jenny, nice to meet you.” She shook her hand.

“Sorry about your friend,” she said sympathetically.

“He was a good man but . ..I ain’t got time to grieve now.” Jenny wiped her eyes, “I got help you guys figure out what to do.”

“McKay and Sayid will be back and they will have a plan.”

“What is his story?” Charlie pointed toward the masked man behind her.

“Oh, yeah, guys, this is Raven.” Jenny said, patting him on the chest, “He’s on our side. He has attacked the soldiers before too and he is here to help us now.”

“Where did he bloody come from?” the musician still asked.

“It’s a long story,” Jenny said, motioning everybody back into the cave, “I will be more than happy to tell you.”

Raven then made a chirping sound. Everybody froze and looked back at him. Charlie sighed, flopping his hands up. “Well, sodding great,” he shrugged, “We wait for two of our friends to get back, scooping the base of bloody ghost men, while our resident bad ass tells the story of the bird-man-ninja that has graced our presence.”

“It could be worse, Charlie,” Seth walked into the cave.

“How? How could it be any bloody worse than this?”

“The Polliwog could be laying eggs and screaming Bollocks each time it does.”

The group of young adults got a laugh from Seth’s joke to relieve the tension. Charlie just rubbed his hair. “That wasn’t funny, Seth,” he muttered.

“It was a little funny,” the young bookstore worker sat down.

Charlie then leaped as he felt a strong hand pat him on the back. He turned out to find Raven standing right behind him. The masked man then pointed to Charlie, and gave a thumbs up. “Looks like he likes you, dude,” Dutch chuckled.

“Great. The bird man is a fan of Driveshaft.” Charlie returned the thumbs up.

The young musician then was surprised that Claire was walking right up to Raven, holding her baby. The young Australian woman was looking at the masked man. When the mysterious person looked at her, they could tell he was smiling from under his mask.

“YOU!” Claire gasped with a smile.

Part 217: Prepare

Kristy immediately saw them bring the lifeless body of Martin and she ran to him. She collapsed onto his chest and cried for him. McKay lifted his head up, and wiped his face. He didn’t like losing Martin; he was certain he would lose no one else. Sayid looked to him and no words were exchanged. They immediately began to walk into the caves.

Seth slowly kneeled down and placed his hand on the back Kristy. The brown haired model leaned up and embraced him. “Oh, God, Marty,” she wept.

“I am sorry, Kristy,” he held onto her.

Charlie, Shanna, Claire and Flower joined them. The Australian woman abruptly collapsed on her knees crying. She gently stroked Martin’s forehead. Charlie sniffed, rubbing the tears out of his eyes. “I didn’t know him that well, “ he whispered, “But he was an all right fella.”

“I lost him,” Kristy whimpered, “Just like . . .I lost Jenny,”

“Something tells me that Jenny is not down for the count yet,” Seth assured her.

“Then where is she?” the model asked.

“We don’t know . .but we’ll find her.”

“Who shot him?” asked Shanna.

“A lowlife by the last name of Aaron,” the bookstore worker grunted, “When we go get our friends from them, I’ll make sure Aaron pays for what he has done. Martin . . . he didn’t deserve to die like that.”

“Let’s get something to cover him up,” Charlie whispered, “And try to figure out what Sayid and McKay have in mind to rescue the others.”


Inside the cave, Sayid walked over the new arrivals. Eddie sat down, looking at his mother. They were drinking water heavily. Jilly was eating a mango with delight as she was starving. Kellye gently sipped on the water; feeling guilty for leaving the girl named Jenny behind. She clearly could protect herself and Kellye had been wasted from the night running they were doing. She vowed to go back in case anything went wrong. Sayid kneeled in front of Barbara. “Hello, madame,” he whispered, “I do not mean to interrupt your rest, I understand your ordeal that you went through but our friends were held captive by someone. Can you give us any information about that?”

“You mean Tony and the others?” the older redhead whispered.

“Are they okay?” asked McKay.

“They were . . .but that was before our escape. I don’t know if the Liberation would do anything to them for my son rescuing us.”

“They better not!” Eddie grunted.

“Who is the Liberation?” asked Sayid.

“A group of mercenaries,” Kellye whispered, “They are run by a man named Colonel Fender and their second is a man named Belmont. There are roughly 40 or so men and about ten plus women. They are well armed, well trained and they have been living on and off again on this Island for the past twenty years.”

Sayid stood up and crossed his arms. “You are military?” he asked.

The young girl looked at him. “How did you know that?”

“Only a soldier could have picked up such details and been so precise.” The Iraqi smiled, “Is it a pleasure to have you aboard.”

“Did you guys see my boy?” asked Micheal.

“I didn’t see Walt, Mr. Micheal,” Eddie said, “But I think he is okay.”

“Thanks, Eddie,” the black man turned around.

Yolanda gently placed both her hands on his cheeks, making him look at her. “He is alive, “ she whispered, “I know it.”

Sayid then took a large piece of paper and a pencil, then handed it to Kellye. “Please, can you give me a layout of their place. No small detail is insignificant.” He asked her.

The girl soldier took one more gulp of her water and then began to draw the Outpost. She gave them locations of the holding bunker, the cabin of Belmont, what she believed to be the weapons depot, and the hanging tree. Jilly made sure to include the pit where Alexander was being held captive. “Alexander?” Andre piped up.

“They are holding the leader of Red Faction in a pit.” McKay mentioned.

“Those stories you told me of that boy, “ Sayid smirked, “Is he as strong as you claim?”

“Very. He made impossible leaps and looked like he could take six grown men,” the Australian replied.

“Then he will have to be freed.”

Jin then said something in Korean. Sun immediately stepped up and said, “My husband asks when we will go free them?”

“Are you crazy?” Shannon cried, “These are soldiers we are talking about. They have guns and stuff.”

“We got guns now,” Hal mentioned.

“So what? I mean . . .only Sayid is a soldier here.”

“So is Tony,” Sayid comforted her, “And so is this young woman. We must help our friends, Shannon.”

She shook her head, understanding what he was saying. She embraced him and wept into his shoulder. “I just . . .I can’t . . .I can’t lose anybody else.” She cried.

“If we are successful, then we won’t.” the Iraqi smiled his warm smile at her.

“What’s the plan, Sayid?” McKay asked.

“This map is very helpful,” he said, studying it, “But I still need a layout of the land. I suggest you and I head over there and investigate.”

“They will be looking for you.” Barbara blinked.

“They will be looking a group of crazed survivors, desperate to stay alive, madame,” he smirked, “Not two men and one boy.”

“Boy?” the red head gasped, “No wait . ..you are not taking my son back with you.”

Eddie scooted off his stone chair. “I have to go, mama,” he told her, “I am the only one who knows the way.”

“Eddie, NO,” she said, kneeling in front of him, “You just came back to me and I will not just let you waltz back into that jungle.”

“Mom, I have to!” he stomped his foot, “I had to make a choice. I had to either save you or Tony with Marita. I didn’t want to but I made my choice. Now I have to do the right thing by leading them back to Tony so they can get him out.”

“Eddie,” she cried.

“Don’t cry, mama.” He hugged her, “I would trust Uncle McKay with my life any day of the week.”

The red-head looked up at the bald man, a single tear going down her cheek. The Australian just smiled, giving the woman the assurance she needed. “If he calls you an Uncle, then I must believe him,” she smiled and sniffed.

“I will keep him safe.” He whispered, “You have my word.”

She kissed her son the cheek and then parted from him. Eddie walked over and took McKay’s hand, as he led them out. As he past Taylor, he kissed her on the lips, not willing to say goodbye. Then Sayid embraced Shannon as well, if only to calm her down. When they started walking toward the entrance, Hal quickly caught up with them. “What is the plan?” he asked.

“We will recon the base, “ Sayid said, getting a pair of binoculars, “Then when we return, we will begin our hunt for Jenny. Let no one else come out till then.”

“And if you don’t come back?” the cop said reluctantly.

“Then all these people to the beach, begin creating a bunch of rafts and get the hell off of this Island.” McKay grunted.

“You serious?” Seth over head him say.

“Kinda,” he huffed.

“HEY, CURLY AND ALI!” Sawyer called from his makeshift bed.

The two men stopped and turned to look at the southern man. Sawyer slowly opened his eyes and looked at them. “Don’t you even think of starting this rumble without me.” He grunted.

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Sayid smirked.

Then two men then walked through the exit the cave and then began their jog into the woods, while the Australian held onto the hand of the little boy by his side. Seth watched them run away, hoping they would make it out okay. Kristy wept silently, with Shanna and Flower by her side. Mandy worried about McKay, knowing the impact it would have on Taylor’s life if he died. She felt the same impact when Boone left her. Everybody gathered around. In the far corner a group started to hold hands.

And Bernard held onto the hands of Barbara, praying for the safety of her son.


………………………………….

Jenny laughed with the others after they had just won the tournament. Her Australian friends all wanted to go get beer to celebrate but the American soccer player wasn’t sure if she would comply with some of Australia’s partying ways. She loved her team and they loved her. She was the one American exchange student that measured up to the way they played.

Jenny finally got done dressing after her shower. She was eager to get back to her Australian family, and enjoy a nice quiet evening at the house. She had purchased the latest book in the Harry Potter series and was eager to get to reading it. “Jenny?” Coach Callahan called.

“Yo?” she turned.

“You got a call,” the female coach pointed toward the nearest phone, “Line three.”

Jenny walked over the phone and picked up the receiver; pressing the blinking button that read 3. “Hello?” she asked.

“Jenny.” A weeping voice said.
“Sarah?” the young girl blinked.

“How you doing, honey?” her sister wept.

“Never mind me, why are you crying?” she asked.

“I was just . . .thinking of my wedding day . . .those photos I lost . . .I finally found them.”

“Oh, Sarah,” Jenny sighed.

“I know I shouldn’t . .but . . .why . . .why did he do that to me?”

“I don’t know, sis,” Jenny rubbed her hair, “How is mom and dad? Are they with you?”

“They are off in Aruba . . .I just . .feel so alone . . .”

“Then you won’t any more, Sarah. I am coming home.”

“No, Jenny . .wait, I just wanted to check on you!”

“It’s the summer, Sarah,” her sister sniffed, “And I have kinda been missing you too. What do you say? Pick me up at the airport next week? I can probably get a flight out.”

“I’d love that, Jenny,” Sarah wept.

“You and me, Sarah. Against the world as always.”

“You and me, Jenny. Against the world as always,” she repeated.

…………………………………………………………………………..

Jenny moaned and then finally woke up. She then opened her eyes and looked around, realizing she was in a cave. She also was amazed that she was on a cot. The young girl leaned up and looked around. Their were many pictures taped to the walls, plus boxes of what looked like military rations. There were empty boxes that contained fruit and hanging from the ceiling, looked like cured meat. “Who is Sarah?” a voice asked behind her.

Jenny turned around and looked at the source of the voice. An older black man was reading from what seemed like a very old book. His smile was a warm smile; almost similar to Locke’s. “You kept repeating Sarah in your sleep,” the man smiled, “Is she your sister?”

“Yes?” Jenny said, then squinted her eyes, “Are . .are you the one who saved me?”

“No, child, “ the black man chuckled, “My name is Emeka. Your savior is outside and his name is Raven.”

“Raven?” she whispered, turning toward the exit of the cave.

Outside was a man clad mostly in black. He was twirling nunchuks with the grace of a skilled martial artist. His mask was a black burlap bag; cut and sewn to fit his head. Jenny was immediately reminded of a ninja. She then turned and looked toward the black man. “How . . .how did you get here, Emecka?” she asked.

“I crashed landed here over 22 years ago,” he said, softly placing down his book, “My friends and I were on a plane. We were flying from Ondo toward Ogun, when my vessel was trapped in black smoke in the sky. When we emerged from the great abyss, we crashed landed in a jungle. I was the only survivor.”

Jenny slowly stood up. “This place Ondo . . . .what country is that in?”

“Nigeria.” He admitted, “South Africa.”

“My friends found that plane,” she squinted, “It was full of Virgin Mary status. Statues that contained drugs.”

“Yes, that is true,” he sighed, “It was our goal to smuggle them into Ogun. Then sell them from there. Perhaps that is why I am being punished.”

“Punished?” she blinked.

“My friends dead . .myself trapped on a Island . . .the black smoke clearly came from God, child. I am being punished for the sins I have committed in my life. I only hope . ..that your sin, whatever it may be, will not be severe enough to keep you here.”

“I have sinned, “Jenny whispered, thinking of the men she killed, “I only hope God will forgive me.”

“You ask for forgiveness, child and he will grant it.” Emeke smiled.

“Emeka, how long have you and Raven known each other?” she said, sitting back down on the bed.

“A long time.” He smiled, “He has been my constant companion. We’ve known each other for 11 years. He can not speak, did you know that? He communicates through sign language.”

“Why do you call him Raven?” she said, looking back down the tunnel, “Is that his last name?”

“He does not remember his last name, child; nor his first name. Raven is the code name given to him by the scientists who experimented on me. The ones who gave him his unique gifts. The ones who locked him away in the Hatch when they couldn’t figure out how to control him.”

“The Hatch?” she whispered, remembering what Jack was trying to do with Tony and the others.

“Yes. Him and the 40 others down there.”

“FORTY?” Jenny exclaimed.

“Yes, forty women and men, experimented on by a government organization that no longer exists. Raven was fortunate enough to escape, thank to the mistake of the Mercenary group that lives in the middle of the island. He had searched for any means to free his brothers and sisters, ending their suffering.”

“How can he do that?” Jenny asked.

Raven then walked into the cave, making a chirping sound. Jenny looked up at him in amazement; believing what Emeka had told her. The masked man then picked up an old book from the nearby stone shelf and opened it. He handed it to Jenny, pointing to some scribble at the bottom. She then slowly read it aloud. “The . .Jaegar Units expiration date will be set in place,” she whispered, “Commence with the reset code to . . .”

Jenny blinked, “It wasn’t finished.”

“No, it wasn’t,” Emeka said, “Raven believes that this . .Reset Code will help his brothers and sisters. He doesn’t know how, nor does he know where they left it.”

“Does this group of Mercenaries know?”

“Possibly. But Raven can’t get close enough to their Outpost without being over-run by them.”

“I have to get to back, “Jenny said, standing up, “My friends will be worried about me.”

“I suspected as much,” Emeka said, “Then let me say my farewell to Raven.”

“Huh?” she blinked, “What for?”

“Raven is going with you, child. If you wish to get into the mercenary camp, you will need his help. There are two white giant demons, who will not let you escape so easily. They have your death in their eyes. In their crazy warped souls, child.”

Raven walked forward and embraced the black man. “Farewell, my friend. “ Emeka said, “I will miss your company but if there is anybody who understands about Fate, it is I.”

“I don’t understand, Emeka,” Jenny said with sympathy, “I have so many questions.”

“They will have to wait, young one. You and Raven must leave now. Your destiny awaits you.”

“I don’t believe in destiny.” Jenny said, trying to give the book back to Raven.

The masked man stopped and pushed it back to her; signaling she should keep it. “Oh, you do, child, “ Emeka smiled, “You just don’t know it yet.”

Raven began to walk out toward the cave. Jenny looked one more time as the strange and kind man. She thought about asking him to come with her but something told her he would say No. She then held the book under her arm and ran out to follow Raven. The masked man was waiting for her, looking up in the trees. He made another strange chirping sound. “So, Raven,” she huffed, “I saw your moves. Ninjitsu, right? I can take you.”

Raven made a wheezing sound, like he was laughing. Jenny smiled; happy to break the ice with a man she barely knew. The masked man then kneeled down and pointed toward his back. The blonde girl blinked, royally confused. “You want to give me a piggy back ride?” she asked.

Raven shook his head in agreement. She shrugged and wondered what this was going to do. She then walked over and mounted onto him, placing her arm around his neck. He gently held onto her knees and stood up. Then he began to run into the woods, as if she weighed nothing at all. “Wow,” she giggled, “Got some strength, do ya?”

Raven then jumped and flew into the trees. “OH MY GOD!!!” Jenny screamed, burying her head in his back.

The masked man made his wheezing laughter again as he jumped from tree to tree. Jenny slowly raised her eyes, looking at the ground as they leaped from branch to branch from tree to tree. This man was moving with the grace of a gazelle. He could have truly been a Raven.

After a few minutes, Jenny screamed in delight; enjoying her piggy back ride in the sky.

Part 216: Lost and Loss

“UNCLE MCKAY!!” Eddie screamed as he finally arrived at the caves.

A small group of people slowly migrated out of the caves, looking the screaming boy. They were amazed as it would seem little Eddie had brought three new people with them. Judging by the way they were dressed, they assumed they were from the plane crash too. Then McKay pushed through the crowd and immediately ran toward Eddie, scooping him up in his arms. He embraced him almost like a long lost son. “Where the hell were you, boy?” he demanded, “Oh, God, don’t ever do that to me again.”

“I had to rescue my mom,” Eddie told him.

“Your .. .mom?” McKay blinked.

“There is no time, Uncle McKay. Jenny was up on the ridge helping us out. She was attacking five soldiers. You got to go help her.”

McKay quickly put him down, “SAYID!”

The Iraqi then came forward, looking at the group of people. “We have to move fast,” he pointed, “Please go into the caves, these people will help you.”

Sayid then turned toward Kellye for obvious reasons. “May I have those rifles, miss?” he asked politely.

Kellye blinked; she wasn’t sure she should give one of the rifles considering what race he was. But she had to put her soldiers instincts away for the moment. She quickly un-slung one of the rifles she was carrying from her back. “You can have one,” she told him.

“Fair enough,” he said, taking the rifle and then immediately throwing it to Seth, “Let’s go, Seth.”

“Hal, you want to join us, please?” McKay called to the cop.

“Hey, dudes, can I come?” Dutch asked.

“No, man, you stay here with them,” Seth pointed, “Charlie! Bernard! Take care of them!”

As the four men began their trek into the words, Barbara guided her friends and her son into the cave. Yolanda was the first to greet them as did Bernard. Charlie looked around, holding onto his gun. He didn’t think they were followed but he had to be sure.

They were counting on him and he wasn’t going to let them down.



McKay huffed as he ran through the jungle, pistol pointing forward. Sayid was right behind him, followed by Hal. Seth checked around, holding the rifle as the movies had trained him. The four men ran up the hill until they reached the ridge where Eddie had described. The Australian looked around, already smelling the stench of blood. Their were even a few flies buzzing around. “Flies,” Seth pointed out.

“It happens,” Sayid said, pointing toward the left side.

“Yeah, but . . .kinda happens quick around here, don’t it?”

“Welcome the jungle, “McKay whispered.

Hal scanned the jungle for anybody that could still be lingering. Sayid walked over to the nearest group of soldiers. Their bodies were already swelling from the heat. McKay checked on one, noticing his broke neck. “Jenny don’t mess around,” he commented.

“Yet, where is our little martial artist?” Sayid commented.

McKay began to track the footprints best he could. Sayid quickly motion for Hal to come over. They immediately grabbed the rifles and any ammo they could find. The Middle Easterner grabbed a radio, looking at it. Hal noticed that the one called White, had two grenades slung into his military belt. He smirked, taking them easily. Seth then looked around and found McKay staring at something. He quickly ran over to him and saw that it was other body, with his neck twisted and poking out of the skin. The sight made Seth grab his mouth, trying not to vomit. “Jenny is cold blooded,” he commented.

“Jenny didn’t do that.” McKay pointed out, “The way the neck is twisted would suggest a severe amount of pressure was applied to it. Pressure her 16 year old body could not provide.”

“If she didn’t kill this guy, then who did?”

“SAYID!” McKay called.

The Iraqi and the cop then jogged over to their location. They both looked at the dead body. “Jenny’s tracks stopped here,” the Australian pointed toward the ground, “Then this man was killed here, then someone else came and ran over there. But the tracks are weird.”

“How weird?” asked Hal.

“They stop just shy of that tree.”

“What the hell does that mean?” Seth asked.

“It means that Jenny was taken by someone who can fly.” McKay sighed.

“McKay, that-“ Sayid tried to say.

“Makes no sense, I know,” the Australian interrupted him, “I only call them like I see them.”

“Whoever that person is, he uses a crossbow, “ Hal pointed, “There is a bolt stuck in a tree back there.”

“Jenny was taken . . .by a Predator?” Seth blinked.

“Don’t be so stupid, Seth,” Sayid sighed.

“Excuse me, but he just said that guy could fly!” the young man pointed toward McKay.

Then they heard a rustling in the bushes behind them. All four immediately pointed their guns to the noise. Within seconds a familiar black man appeared through the jungle leaves. Seth sighed, lowering his rifle. “Martin, what are you doing?” the young bookstore worker asked him.

“I came to see if Jenny was okay,” he pointed back toward the caves, “I overheard Eddie saying that she was taking on five soldiers. Where is she?”

“She is gone . .but it would appeared she beat them.” Sayid pointed out.

“Then where the hell is she-“

The young black man was interrupted by a bullet striking his chest. The four men then jumped down. Hal pointed his pistol into the distance and immediately opened fire. He immediately his entire clip into the direction of the sniper hit. Seth grunted, immediately taking off the silenced barrel from his gun. He then rolled and opened fire, spraying bullets into the trees. He screamed as he swung his rifle from left to right, watching the bullets tear into the leaves and the wood of the trees. Then a lone green figured leaped down from the tree and proceeded to run into the distance. Hal immediately gave chase.

Seth then turned around and ran toward the black man. Martin was on the ground, gasping for air. He held onto the wound, trying to hold the precious blood from spilling out. He coughed, as the red liquid was filling up his lung fast. Seth quickly placed his hand over the wound, trying to help him. “MCKAY!” the young man screamed.

The Australian ran and grabbed Martin by the arms, trying to hoist him up. But the black man just screamed in pain. McKay then collapsed holding onto him. “Martin, you stay with me!” he shook him.

“It wasn’t supposed to happen like this, it wasn’t suppose to happen like this,” the black man grunted.

“Marty, you hang in there,” Seth urged him.
”Seth . . . you gotta tell . ..tell my dad . . . .I wasn’t scared . . .” he grunted.

“Of course,” Seth said, teary eyed, “How could we ever assume you’d be scared?”

Martin then grabbed McKay behind the neck, “ McKay . . .Promise me . . .you’ll get Kristy and Jenny home . . “

“I promise,” the bald man immediately said.

“Oh . .man,” Martin coughed, “I was hoping . . .to die . . .on a cruise . . .this wasn’t what I had in mind . . .”

“Martin, don’t talk,” Sayid urged him.

“You guys . . .are the best . . .tell Jenny . .tell Kristy . . .they were the best sisters . . .a guy could . . .”

Martin coughed one last time, and slumped down. “MARTIN!” Seth screamed, shaking him but getting no response.

“DAMN IT!!” McKay screamed, upset they lost another one.

Seth slowly stood up, letting the tears fall out of his eyes. He was brought back to feeling the same thing he felt when Brendon past on. He knew that Martin was brave, and extremely selfless; thinking of Jenny and Kristy at the end. The young singer would vow that he would make sure they knew what he said. McKay slowly let the black man slump to the ground. Sayid said a Muslim prayer for their fallen comrade. Hal then jogged back, immediately seeing Martin lying dead in the grass. “Aw, man,” he turned his head.

“Did you get him?” Seth asked.

“He was running too fast,” the cop panted, “He knows these jungles better than we do. I could have easily gotten lost.”

“We should go after him!” Seth grunted.

“Seth, that is the last thing we should do,” Sayid stood up.

“WHY?” he screamed in rage.

“Because that sniper is leading us right to his militia friends, “the Iraqi pointed into the distance, “If we give chase, there will be no one to carry our bodies back to our friends. We need to go back to the caves, regroup and talk to those people Eddie brought back. We need all the Intel we can get so we can save Jack and the others.”

“Yes, “ McKay wiped his tears, “No one else is gonna die today.”

Seth immediately wiped his tears and calmed down. “You’re right,” he sniffed, “We need to take them and it’s gonna need to be in force.”

“Then let us assemble that force,” Sayid said, picking up Martin’s left arm.

Without any words, McKay grabbed the man’s right arm. Then Seth took the right leg and Hal took the left leg. The four friends carried the body of their friend back toward the caves. McKay regretted telling Kristy and eventually Jenny what had happened. He was growing weary of being the bearer of bad news. He longed for them to get off the Island and save the rest from suffering.

As they walked, Seth wiped his tears. Hal then looked at him and then looked straight ahead. “Aaron.” He whispered.

“Huh?” the young man turned to him.

“The Sniper? His name is Aaron,” the cop told him.

“How do you know that?”

“It was written in black magic marker on the back of his jacket,” he coughed, “I thought you should know when you are ready to get justice for Martin.”

Seth shook his head. “Thanks, Hal,” he sniffed.

“Don’t mention it,” he sighed.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------,

John stared into the distance with his arms through the barred window, resting on the dirt. He had been staring at the distance where they took Mia for the last three hours. He didn’t move and he didn’t waver. She didn’t come back during the night so she was definitely somewhere away from him. The archer didn’t know if they were torturing her or just keeping her locked up or worse. John jolted when he felt a soft hand touch his shoulder. “She’s fine,” Libby told him, “If she wasn’t, you’d know.”

“I’d like to think so,” John muttered.

“How long have you know Mia?” the therapist asked.

“46 days,” he smirked.

“You met on the plane?”

“During the crash exactly,”

“That is amazing. I would have assumed that by the way you care for her, you had known her for years, not a month and a few days.”

“I feel like I have known her for longer.”

“If we survive this, I will have to publish a book about the bonding between men and women trapped on a mysterious Island, held at pay by a psycho group of mercenaries.”

“Can I get a signed copy?” John smirked.

Libby patted him on the shoulder and walked away to join the others. John continued to stare out into the distance. To the right of the location that Mia went to was a building that a few men were going into. The archer was curious that every time they went in they came out with a weapon of some kind. Could that be some sort of weapons debut? John looked around. He wasn’t sure if he could get out of the cage and make a break for that cabin. He would need some kind of diversion. The archer knew that McKay and Sayid were on their way but he didn’t know how long he could wait for them. “Please, God,” he whispered, “Gimme some sort of sign that I can help get my friends out of here.”

Inside the weapons depot, a soldier walked in and John could see him from the side window. The man pulled out a cigarette and a match to lit it up. The archer then raised an eyebrow as the light from the match lit up a box on shelf behind the man. What John noticed the most was that in big bold black letters on the box read ROWS. He blinked, remembering the sign he just requested.

Did that box really say . . . arrows?

Part 215: Day 46

Eddie huffed as he continued to run into the jungle. It had became light about an hour ago. Barbara was getting short on breath; not to mention, she was in the wrong clothes for running though the jungle. Jilly kept up best she could and Kellye brought up the rear, constantly checking behind her. The little boy held onto his kangaroo toy as they ran, hearing him speak softly into his ear. “You must hurry, Eddie,” he whispered in a dry tone, “Frakes was good to his word. There are five men on your tail.”

“I know, I know,” he told the toy.

“You know what, Eddie?” Barbara asked her son.

“We got to keep moving, mom! There are five men chasing us!”

Kellye turned around and stopped. She scanned the jungle for any sign of followers but she saw nothing. “KELLYE!” Barbara called, “ We have to keep moving.”

Kellye grunted and then quickly ran toward them. She wanted to curse the old woman for screaming, essentially giving away their position. But she didn’t have time to teach these people about soldiers. They were too busy trying to stay alive.

Eddie continued to run and caught his breath. He stopped, collapsing on his knees. Barbara stopped as well, moving the sweat coated hair from her eyes. Jilly ran and stopped, then turned and hurled. Kellye quickly got on her knees next to her deaf friend, patting her on the back. It was all the running the humid climate that caused her to vomit. The little boy knew how she felt. He looked around, recognizing the valley before they get to the caves.

They weren’t far now.


The soldiers paused in their running. Stugar held up his hand in a fist, telling them to stop. Barker looked ahead. There they were; the three escape prisoners and their pint sized rescuer. The soldiers caught their breath. Stugar saw them on the ridge ahead of them, unaware of their presence due to one of them vomiting. He turned to his friends and said, “Where the hell is Titus?”

“Him and Rice are on their way,” Pool said.

“Then let’s go ahead and take them, get them back to the base, “ Stugar replied.

“What is the rush?” Barker smiled, sweat dripping off his chin.

“What you mean?”

“Three ladies, one kid . . .five soldiers?” he smiled with an evil glee,” Why don’t we have some fun? The fun that has been denied us cause the Colonel is off on his insane quest.”

“Hell, I am up for it,” Pool whispered.

“You fools are starting to sound like Titus,” Stugar spit, “That fool only thinks with his pants.”

“Well, I say we go and have our way with them,” Barker rubbed his eyebrow.

“I say we kill the kid and then have the women,” Pool coughed.

“I say we kill the kid and the deaf girl, then plow into the other too.” White offered.

“Yeah, well, I say we capture them and stick to the damn job,” Stugar grunted.

“I say we let them all go,” replied Jenny in a completely innocent voice.

The five soldiers then turned around and looked at the teenager abruptly. Jenny stood behind him wearing a light blue jump suit and her hair tied into a pony tail. They all looked at her like they were clearly ready to kill her. Jenny just scoffed at their disapproval. “What?” she shrugged,” I don’t get a vote?”

“Where the hell did you come from, little gir-“

Stugar was interrupted by Jenny planting her foot into his crotch. The man fell back, gasping for the air that quickly left his lungs. Before White could react, the young martial artist grabbed his rifle and jolted it the other way. In split second he needed to fire, Jenny slammed her palm into his nose, sending the nose bone directly into the brain. White was dead before he even hit the ground. Jenny then flew into the air, dropping kicking two of them with each foot. Pool tried to fire but she grabbed his wrist and twisted it around; snapping it. The pain made him scream with alerted the others.

Barbara then turned around as did the others. They were amazed at seeing a young teenager fighting five armed soldiers at once. Before the older woman could say anything, the young girl grabbed a man by his arm and then planted her foot into his knee, bending it back the wrong way. “Oh, my God,” she jolted.

“MISS JENNY!” Eddie screamed.

“EDDIE,” she screamed back, “ Get your people out of there! I’ll hold them off!”

“Can she do that?” Kellye said in amazement.

“C’mon!” Eddie said, pulling her mother, “We got to get Uncle McKay!”

Barbara and Eddie began their flight down the ridge, as Jilly was quick on their heels. Kellye didn’t like leaving Jenny by herself but it was what she teenager ordered them to do. The girl soldier vowed she would come back once they have reinforcements.

Stugar tried to grab for his rifle but Jenny leaned, grabbing his arm first. She then planted her foot onto his throat and began to pull. The soldier’s thoughts were the humiliation of being killed by a little girl. He jolted as his neck broke within seconds. Another soldier got up, screaming. He ran toward her but then Jenny leaned into the air, flinging her right knee into his chest. As he felt, she could hear the rib snapping. The soldier landed hard on the ground, grabbing his chest, as blood began to ooze out of his mouth. Jenny stood in attack pose; panting. She looked around, seeing the five dying or dead soldiers. She couldn’t help but have a smile on her face. “I did it.” She whispered; happy Eddie and his friends got to safety.

Jenny then grabbed two of the rifles and then began to jog back toward the caves. She figured she would get McKay and Sayid back to collect the rest. They would need the guns if they were going to get their friends back from this crazed militia. She checked back to make sure none of them were following her.

Which made her miss the baton slamming her in the face.

Rice grunted as the young blonde felt down hard onto ground. Jenny tried to move but her nerves were on fire and the massive hit in her head was over-riding her other senses. Everything was in a daze. Titus slowly walked out into the opening; holding his rifle slung. He looked the remains of the five soldiers that went ahead of him. “Unbelievable.” He whispered, “That little girl did all that.”

“She’s one of a kind,” hissed Rice.

“If she can do that . . .then she got to be some kind of martial artist expert. You think the colonel will want her for the Liberation?”

“I know I do.” The hideous soldier licked his lips.

He then pointed his barrel down toward Jenny’s shirt, slowly pushing it up. She grunted, unable to move as the soldier got an eyeful of her bra. “She looks ripe.” Rice muttered.

“Make it quick, “ Titus said, walking away, “I’m going to get the gear off of Stugar and these other idiots.”

As the soldier walked away, Rice collapsed on top of Jenny. He pinned down her arms and got into her face. The vile stench of his breath made her gag. “Been too long for me, little girl,” he whispered, then licked her chin, “If I am out of practice, you let me know, yeah?”

“Get . . . off . . . “ Jenny grunted, blood oozing from her nose.

“You got a little fire left in ya?” Rice leaned up, taking off his jacket, “Good, that will make this all the more pleasant-“

The soldier was interrupted by a completely glad in black figure, pulling him off of Jenny and grabbing his neck. He then twisted it hard to the right, snapping it. The young teenager strained her blurry vision to see that she seemed to be rescued by a ninja. The lone figure then looked into the distance, seeing Titus. Something in the back of the soldiers hairs on his neck told him something was wrong. He wasn’t hearing the love grunts coming from Rice. He slowly turned around and freaked when he saw the long figure with the black burlap back over his head. “Raven,” he whispered.

The mysterious man then quickly pulled out a crossbow from behind his back and fired at the soldier. The bolt whizzed by his ear and slammed into a tree. “HOLY PISS!” Titus screamed as he ran off into the distance.

Raven then placed his crossbow, slung back over his back. He then kneeled down and gently pulled Jenny’s shirt back the way it was. The young teenager then raised up her right hand, touching Raven’s arm. The strange man was a little shocked that she was willing to touch him. “Thank . . .you . . . “ she grunted, talking through the blood leaking from her nose.

Raven gently rubbed her head, making a soft bird-like cooing sound. Jenny then passed out, finally succumbing to the baton strike. The masked man looked around, noticing her friends were no where near. He didn’t want to leave her, in case the soldiers came back. Raven then gently scooped her up into his arms. He then ran toward the jungle and then leaped up into the tree, as easily as a child playing hopscotch. Jenny felt so at peace as the mysterious man glided over the trees, making the wind caress her face.