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Chapter 1

    Dana Rawlings hit save on his computer, got up from his desk and stretched. He hated to be interrupted when he was writing, but he couldn’t ignore his editor who was demanding to see him immediately.

 Yes it was just a college newspaper but he was very proud of his work. His latest set of articles was on the new trend of males being “femmed” on campus. While he wasn’t the one who created the term, he was the one who put the spotlight on it.

    It had started a few months ago and it looked like a relatively harmless form of revenge. The way it initially worked was a male student would meet an attractive woman in one of the many bars located right off campus. They would go back to his place or get a hotel. However instead of having sex, the male would be drugged and wake up completely dressed in women’s clothing.

    No one knows when it first started or even who the first victim was. Dana suspected that there were many who never came forward…not that he could blame them.

    What had caught Dana’s attention was when it looked like there was an organized group doing the “femming.” They also shifted from private to public humiliation.

    One “femmed” male woke up in the college library stacks. He was dressed in a short skirt, sweater and high heels. His makeup was heavy and a blonde wig was on his head. Even though he was completed dressed in women’s clothes, he was a rather large muscular man and he didn’t look very feminine. Needless to say he suffered a great amount of humiliation as he quickly departed the library and rushed across campus to his dorm. According to eyewitnesses he fell several times due to the high heels he was wearing.

    Dana interviewed several people who recognized the guy and apparently he had quite a reputation as a ladies man. In fact Dana soon discovered that many of the men femmed had recently broken up with their girlfriends or had been accused of some other affront to women. One victim was a vocal spokesman against female sports on campus.

    The next several cases were like this; males dropped off in very public areas of campus in drag. The campus police investigated and while they were concerned about the drugging aspect of the act; overall they seemed to slough it off as a prank. There was even some talk on campus that the men who had been femmed deserved it.

    This all changed with the next several cases. Whoever was doing it apparently wasn’t content with just dressing the male in women’s clothes. They began to cut and style the men’s hair into feminine hair styles. They also shifted from a more extreme drag sort of appearance to more of a mainstream feminine appearance.

    With each victim the attention to detail increased. One male was kept drugged over an entire weekend. In addition to his hair being styled and dyed, he was given a very professional set of long nails; his eyebrows were waxed and shaped, his ears pierced, and his body completely waxed.

    They also glued a set of very realistic looking breasts to the male’s chest. The doctors in the ER couldn’t remove the glue and the male was told to let it wear off.

    Dana was also shocked by the way the male was abducted. He was grabbed in a campus parking lot late at night. The student also didn’t seem to fit the model of the previous victims. As far as Dana could determine the male hadn’t even been on a date since he started attending college. He also suspected that this might be some new group and were unconnected to the early incidents.

    Over the next few weeks several other males were femmed in a similar manner. However there was a disturbing trend as each new victim had more done to them. The latest victim had a very feminine tattoo on the small of his back. He also had several body piercings including a stud in his tongue and a diamond stud in his nostril.

    Through his contacts with the campus police Dana had learned that this latest batch of femming had been done by the new group. 

    Dana immediately wrote a scathing article in the paper blasting this group and wondering what was their real goal.

    The next day he received a letter from the group.

    The group refused to disclose their name, but they said that they would continue to fem males until the university changed its admission process to increase the number of women. They also wanted more female faculty members. After reading it, he turned the letter over to the campus police.

    Dana’s next article included the letter and discussed their goals, which he refuted one by one. He pointed out that the current campus undergraduate population was fifty-seven percent female and sixty percent in the graduate programs. Next he listed that over sixty percent of the faculty were female. He also pointed out that the school was one of the few in the state that was currently meeting all requirements of Title 9, the landmark sports equality regulation.

    The next contact from the group was a warning and threatened that should he continue to write negative things about them he would be femmed too.

    Dana arrived outside his editor’s office and knocked. Richard Lake waved him inside. Judging by the look on Richard’s face Dana knew he was going to get another talking to about dropping the femming stories. 

    Just as Dana expected Richard did just that.

    “Dana, trust me, I don’t like doing this…you’re probably the best reporter I’ve ever had on the rag. Hell, you’re ten times the investigative reporter I will ever be…but you need to back off,” stated Richard.

    “Why?” asked Dana as he crossed his arms.

    “I’m not supposed to say…but you can probably guess who,” said Richard.

    Dana rolled his eyes. The university administration was very unhappy with all the negative press about the femming incidents.

    “Richard if I do that what kind of reporter am I?” asked Dana as he leaned forward. “Besides… I am working with the campus police…so far I am the only person this group has made contact with. I know that I can break this story if I just have the time.”

    “How do you know this is the group?” asked Richard.

    “They provided information that hasn’t been released to the public. Every letter that I’ve received has been turned over to the police,” continued Dana.

    Richard leaned back in his chair and shook his head. “I don’t know…I mean this is just a campus paper, it’s not worth you getting hurt over.”

    “I’ve been threatened before,” said Dana.

    Richard nodded. The previous year, Dana had broken a story about abusive pledge practices at the one of the most prestigious frat houses on campus. His story got the frat house placed on a two-year probation. Several of the members threatened Dana. Instead of scaring him off, he just dug deeper and the evidence he uncovered led to them being suspended permanently from campus.

    “It’s not like they’re threatening to kill me…I mean what’s the worst that can happen? If they do fem me…it will make a great story and will show everyone what a bunch of nutcases they are,” explained Dana.

    “What if they up the ante?” asked Richard. “No offense, but you’re not exactly the most macho guy in the world.”

    Dana laughed. He was tall, almost six feet tall, but he was also thin with shoulder length brown hair. He also had little if any facial hair.

    “I’ve had photos taken when I was dressed as a girl for a Halloween party and have survived. I’m also secure in my own sexuality…just ask Jessica,” he remarked, referring to his longtime girlfriend. “Also, I admit that I have a selfish side to this…this story is giving me a reputation and I’ve had some inquiries about hiring me. I graduate this semester and I need a job. If I back off now…who would hire me? If they do fem me it will just prove my point that this group is dangerous and vindictive.”

    “I understand…but like I implied…this isn’t up to me,” replied Richard. “Can’t you tone it down?”

    “Tone it down? I take it this is higher than our academic advisor,” stated Dana.  

    Dana nodded.

    “The Dean?” asked Dana knowing the answer.

    Richard nodded. “I just left his office an hour ago…it wasn’t pleasant.” 

    “Well, if he had done more to stop this when it was just a prank then we wouldn’t be having this conversation, would we?”

    Richard nodded. “Okay, you win…now where’s your latest article?”

    Dana smiled. “I was just about done…when you called me in here.”

    “Then I guess you better get back to work,” said Richard.

    Dana smiled and got up. “It will be sent to you shortly.”

Chapter 2

    The next morning Dana walked into the campus coffeehouse for his usual cup of coffee.

    The attractive blonde woman behind the counter held up the campus newspaper to show Dana’s article was on the front page.

    “Nice story, Dana,” remarked Jessica.

    “Thank you,” he replied as he gave a slight bow.

    He then leaned over the counter and kissed her.

    They had been dating for the past three years and all their friends fully expected them to get married as soon as they graduated.

    “Do you think that they’ll catch who is doing this?” she asked.

    “I hope so…I just hope that someone will come forward and talk about whoever is doing this. I mean, the group obviously knows the workings of the campus,” he said.

    “What about the threats?” she asked in a concerned tone as she handed him his coffee.

    He shrugged as he poured some sugar into his coffee. “I doubt they’ll do anything to me. It would go against their cover story of how they’re only doing this to attack sexism on campus. My reputation is pretty strong concerning supporting of women’s rights…and all civil rights on campus,” he replied.

    “But what if you’re right about this group and they don’t care about rights…and that they have a different motive?”

    “Then femming me would prove my point,” he replied. “I know you’re worried, but I promise to be careful.”

    Jessica nodded and then motioned for him to move closer so she could kiss him.

    “That’s for luck,” she stated. “Be careful, I don’t want to see you in a dress.”

Chapter 3

    Dana went directly from his morning class to his desk at the campus paper. The first thing he did was check his email accounts. He had his official email and there was also an account for his column. He tried to reply to all emails, but this wasn’t always possible. Today he had over a hundred replies concerning his latest article.

    Most of the comments were in favor of his story. A few accused him of making it all up and a few were angry. He looked over the angry emails and saw that all were from students. None appeared to be anything worth worrying about.

    He then opened up his official account. There was an email from the campus police thanking him for the latest article. There was also one from someone he didn’t recognize. When he opened it up he recognized it as coming from the same person who had been threatening him over the femming articles.

    Dear Dana,
           Apparently you’re not taking us seriously. While your latest article was well written, it did defame us and this cannot continue. I am using your official email account to let you know that we know everything about you; we know you live at 378 Maple Street in Apartment 4-B, you drive a used green 2-door 2004 Honda Civic, we know your home email address and your cell phone number. If you open the attachments you’ll see the rest of the info we know about you. This is your last warning.

    Dana opened the first attachment and was shocked by the data that they had complied on him. It included information ranging from his current class schedule, his bank accounts, his credit card numbers, and other financial information. Additionally there was personal information including medical information from his blood type to how many fillings he had in his teeth. The other file had photos that had been taken inside his apartment. Today’s campus paper was shown in one of the shots; it was laid out on his bed. A bra, a pair of panties, and two saline breast implant pads were lying next to the newspaper. It was a clear message.

It was obvious that this wasn’t some campus group…there was certainly power and money behind whoever was doing this.

    Dana immediately picked up the phone and called his connection with the campus police.

Chapter 4

    Dana watched as the locksmith changed the locks on his apartment door. There had been no sign of a break-in so whoever broke it either had a key or had picked the lock. In addition to the new lock, Dana paid for a second more secure dead-bolt to be installed. He debated getting a security system, but he figured that it would be too expensive.

    While he was pissed about being the fact that someone had broken into his apartment, he was more upset that the university had pulled him off the femming storyline. Dana was allowed to write an editorial explaining why he had been pulled off the story. It was a minor victory he thought, but he had lost the war.

    After he got his new keys he rushed back to the campus paper and wrote his editorial. His initial draft was filled with rage and sarcasm. Naturally he didn’t use it, but it did allow him the opportunity to vent. He submitted the editorial to Richard.

    Richard looked it over while Dana stood there and watched.

    “You sure you want to go with this?” asked Richard.

    Dana nodded. “You should read the one that I’m not submitting. Look, I want to make it clear that being pulled off this wasn’t my idea and that I wasn’t scared off.”

    “Why don’t you let us just post a statement…I’m worried that this might piss them off.”

    “That’s the point,” replied Dana. “They broke into my apartment…stolen my personal information…threatened me…I want them to know that I didn’t quit this fight…I was pulled out of it.”

    “I understand…but I can’t do this…the Dean has told me to submit anything that you write about this to his office,” apologized Richard.

    “Fine…send it to him and let him change it,” replied Dana angrily.

    “I promise to state your side in this,” said Richard.

    Dana nodded. He was furious, but he knew that there was no point in arguing with Richard.

    “So what do you want me write about now?” asked Dana.

    “I’m working on that,” replied Richard. “I promise it will be good.”

Chapter 5

    “I know you’re pissed about this, Dana, but you have to let it go,” said Jessica as she punched in the time on the microwave.

    “I almost quit…but I figure it would only hurt me,” he replied as he set the table. “I wonder who is really behind this.”

    Jessica allowed Dana the opportunity to vent, but deep down she was glad that he was off the story. She loved him too much to see him get hurt.

    “Why would someone abduct and dress guys up in women’s clothing? I mean, besides humiliation what’s the purpose behind it?” continued Dana.

    “You really think that this is something big, don’t you?” she asked.

    Dana nodded. “I think that someone is using the campus act of femming to perfect something…I just don’t know what. Each case took it a step further…it’s not a prank. Oh and to play it safe I sent all my notes and extra computer drive to my parents.”

    “Have you contacted anyone besides the campus police?” she asked as she pulled the food out of the microwave.

    “Like who?” asked Dana.

    “There must be some law enforcement group that would find this interesting,” said Jessica.

    Dana nodded. “You might be onto something…I suppose I could do some research and contact them as a concerned private citizen.”

    Jessica leaned over and kissed him. “That’s the spirit.”

Chapter 6

    Dana watched TV with Jessica before he headed back to his apartment. He kissed her goodbye before leaving.

    “You sure that you don’t want to spend the night?” she asked.

    “I’d love to, but I have to be in the campus paper office first thing in the morning,” he replied.

    “Okay, but stop by and pick up your coffee on the way there, okay?”

    He nodded and kissed her again.

    “See you in the morning,” he said.

Chapter 7

    Jessica looked at her watch and wondered where Dana was as he should have stopped in for his morning coffee by now. She debated calling him, but decided to wait a few more minutes. She looked at the campus paper and re-read the editorial stating why Dana would no longer be covering the femming story. It was pretty sanitized and she knew that Dana wouldn’t be happy with it.

    She looked at her watch again and decided to call Dana.

    There was no answer when she called his cell phone and that surprised her. She called his office phone and only got his answering service so she called Richard’s number.

    “I was about to call you, Jessica. Dana didn’t show up this morning and he’s never late,” said Richard.

    “I called his cell and there’s no answer,” she said.

    “I’ll run by this place…he may have just overslept,” said Richard.”I’ll call you shortly.” 

    Jessica felt a sickening feeling in the pit of her stomach as she hung up her phone.

    Thirty minutes Richard called her back.

    “He’s not here,” said Richard.

    “Something is wrong,” stated Jessica. “Is his car there?”

    “I’m going to check now.”

    “Don’t hang up on me, okay?” she asked.

    “Okay,” he replied. He walked out of the building and headed to the back of the building where Dana’s parking spot was located.

    He could see Dana’s car in the spot and then he saw something that made him freeze. Dana’s backpack and coffee mug were sitting on the roof of the car. He walked over felt the mug…it was still warm.

    “What’s happening?” demanded Jessica.

    Richard told her. “I need to hang up and call the police.”

    Jessica let out a scream and began to cry.

Chapter 8

    Richard typed out his latest editorial for the paper. It had now been over 4 weeks since Dana had disappeared.

    The police were treating it as an abduction based on the threats received. What really worried Richard was that none of the other abductions connected to the campus femmings had lasted this long. He was really concerned for Dana’s life.

    Naturally Jessica was total wreck and was constantly calling to see if there was any news.

    Dana’s parents had flown out and were staying with friends near campus.

    The only good thing was that the local press had gotten behind the story and a day didn’t go by that it wasn’t one of the stories on the news or radio. Richard found this very ironic as the local press had completely ignored the story when Dana was covering it…now it was their top story.

    He looked over article one last time when his phone rang.

    “Richard Lake speaking,” he replied as he made a change to his work.

    “This is Officer Ruiz…Dana Rawlings has been located,” he announced.

    Richard stopped typing. Officer Carlos Ruiz was Dana’s contact on the campus police force. “How is he?”

    There was a long pause on the other end.

    “Is he okay?” demanded Richard as he felt a sickening feeling in his gut.

    “He’s…he’s alive…but…shit, I don’t know what to say. He’s been admitted to the campus hospital.”

    “Has his family been notified?” asked Richard.

    “They’re working on that…look I could get in big trouble for contacting you…but I figured you could reach his family first.”

    “I’ll call them…look I’m Dana’s friend too…please tell what happened,” stated Richard. “Was he femmed?”

    “Yeah…but they did a whole lot more to him. They didn’t just dress him up…the fuckers…the fuckers changed him…I can’t talk right now…but they had no right to hurt him,” stammered Officer Ruiz in rage. “I’m sorry…just get his parents here okay?”

    Richard hung up and placed two calls; one to Dana’s parents and the other to Jessica.

Chapter 9

    Jon and Kelly Rawlings arrived at the hospital with Jessica. Richard met them in the waiting room.

    “Where is Dana?” asked Jon. 

    Jon Rawlings was a large man, powerfully built from his years working in construction. He had quit high school to work to support his mother. Over the years he rose from a common laborer to owning his own successful company. Dana was his pride and joy and he was extremely proud that his son was the first in the family to go to college.

    He had left his business in his brother-in-law’s hands ever since Dana had gone missing.

    “I don’t know. However, they know I’m here,” said Richard.

    “Who is they?” asked Kelly.

    Kelly was a petite woman, but she was very tough. She had grown up in a family with six brothers. Her father was the foreman of the first company that Jon had worked for.

    “The doctors and the police,” he replied.

    “The campus police?” asked Jon with disgust. “Those idiots are worthless.”

    Richard shook his head. “No, the city police, there’s a detective here…his last name is Lansing. But don’t get your hopes up; they aren’t much better.”

    Just then a middle-aged man in a wrinkled blue suit stepped into the waiting room.

    “That’s him,” said Richard. “Detective Lansing, these are Dana’s parents and his fiancé.”

    Detective Lansing nodded as he pulled out his badge and ID.

    “Where is our son?” demanded Jon.

    “He’s…he’s being examined,” said Detective Lansing as he ran his fingers through his thinning black hair. “Follow me please; we have an office set up for you…I think we should talk in private.”

    Jon was about to argue, but when he felt Kelly’s hand on his arm he nodded and followed.

Chapter 10

    Dana sat up in his hospital bed. He felt so strange…it was like he had felt when he woke up after his appendix had been removed.

    He tried to speak, but no words came out…his throat felt so dry.

    “Doctor, he’s awake,” said one of the nurses.

    “Just relax…you’ve been through…through a lot,” stammered the doctor.

    Dana tried to clear his head and wondered what the doctor was babbling about.

    He pointed at his throat and the nurse nodded. She handed him a water bottle with a straw in it.

    Dana took a sip and tried to clear his throat.

    “Where…why am I…here?” he gasped out. His voice sounded so weak.

    “Dana do you know what today is?” asked the doctor.

    Dana wondered why he was being asked such a stupid question.

    “April…second,” he replied. His voice still sounded weird…it seemed higher pitched.

    The look on the faces of the doctor and nurse told Dana that there was really something wrong.

    “Dana…it’s May first,” replied the doctor.

    Dana shook his head, this was impossible. “What happened?”

    A man in a gray suit stepped forward. Dana thought the man looked out of place.

    “Dana, I’m Detective Frey. It looks like you were abducted. Can you tell us what you remember?”

    Dana’s mind began to clear and he remembered a van pulling up next to car. The door opened and someone shot him…with a dart…he remembered feeling a sharp pain in his chest. His eyes opened wide.

    “Did…they…fem me?” he asked.

    No one spoke and Dana looked down and saw that he had breasts…he could also see that his arms looked different…they were thinner…and his nails were now long and colored a soft pink. So they got him.

    He reached up to touch his chest and immediately pulled back. He looked up at the detective and the hospital staff in shock. The breasts…they were real.

    “What did they do to me?” he asked.

    “We’re still examining you, Dana…but I can’t lie to you…they changed you…dramatically,” stated the doctor.

    Dana immediately reached up and touched his face. It felt different.

    “I need to see…please hand me a mirror,” he demanded.

    The doctor nodded and a nurse held up a mirror.

    Dana looked at his face and let out a scream.

Chapter 11

    “When can we see our child?” demanded Jon.

    “We need to prepare you…you son has been physically changed,” replied Detective Lansing. “The doctor will be in shortly to explain exactly what was done.”

    “What do you mean; what did they do to him?” asked Kelly as she held Jon’s hand tightly.

    “Whoever abducted him…made your son look like a woman. He has had extensive plastic surgery on his face and body…they also injected him with a very strong female hormone.”

    “How do you know that?” asked Jon.

    “The campus police were called this morning and told of Dana’s location. He was unconscious and naked in one of the campus labs. A large envelope was on his chest. It held a medical file that provided information about what was done to him,” explained Detective Lansing.

    “May we see it?” asked Kelly.

    “The doctors have a copy of it and we have the original in our crime lab,” replied Detective Lansing. “I want you to know that we are treating this very seriously.”

    “About time,” muttered Richard just under his breath.

    Kelly was more blunt. “And why wouldn’t you?” she asked barely containing her anger.

    He scratched his head. “There will be those who will say that other than the abduction there was no real crime committed…of course that’s nonsense.”

    “You make it sound like this is going to become public knowledge,” said Jessica.

    “The local media was sent a message from the people that did this,” he continued. “I imagine you got here just before they did. They are currently setting up in the parking lot.”

    “Please tell me that you’re not going to let them in here,” stated Kelly nervously.

    “The hospital security has explained it to them. We’ve also stationed personal outside Dana’s room. The last thing we want is for someone to sneak some photos of him.”

    “Did this group say why they hurt Dana?” asked Jon.

    “No,” replied Detective Lansing. “I suspect they did it as a warning to the press.”

    “Sure, that makes sense…I guess you don’t have to worry about warning the police,” stated Richard. “You make this sound like it was Dana’s fault…he just reported it…if the campus police…and your department had taken this seriously then this might not have happened!”

    “And do you think you’ll catch them?” asked Kelly.

    Detective Lansing hesitated. “We’ll do our best, but we’re a small town force. This isn’t something we normally deal with…we also don’t have a lot to go on. Whoever did this really covered their tracks quite well. We called in the State Police’s crime lab to check the lab room where we found Dana. The problem is that it’s a room used by hundreds of students in a week.”

    “So in other words…no,” said Richard with disgust.

    “When do we get to see Dana?” asked Kelly.

    “I’ll find out for you,” he replied.

Chapter 12

    Dana stared at his reflection in the mirror. His face looked so different...he barely recognized himself. His nose was smaller, his cheeks were more prominent, his chin was softer…and his lips were larger and thicker. Who ever had changed him obviously took great efforts to make him sexy and feminine.

    He noticed that he was wearing makeup and he wondered why the hospital staff hadn’t removed it. There was eyeliner and his lips were a light shade of red. Additionally his eyebrows were thin and highly arched.

    He ran his fingers across his lips to wipe off the lipstick…but it wouldn’t come off.

    “I’m sorry…but it’s permanent makeup,” said the doctor. “It’s like a tattoo.”

    “Can you remove it?” asked Dana.

    “Maybe,” he replied.

    “What about my face? Can you make me look…like me again?” he asked.

    “I’m not a plastic surgeon…I just know that they did some rather radical surgery on you.”

    “So in other words…no,” said Dana.

    “We might be able to make changes…but it’s unlikely we can make you look the way you used to,” he admitted.

    Dana looked at his hair. It was now blonde with highlight streaks throughout. The style was short, but very feminine.

    He also had several studs in each ear.

    “I want to see the rest,” said Dana.

    “I think you should rest first,” suggested the doctor.

    Dana shook his head. “It’s not going to change…I need to see how bad it is,” he said.

    The doctor nodded. “Okay, but I need to tell you something first.”

    Dana looked at the doctor. “I know the breasts are real…what else did they do?”

    “You were castrated,” he said.

    Dana felt all the air leave his lungs and he had to fight to get his breath back. “Son of a bitch,” he cursed.

    “There’s something else you should know,” continued the doctor.

    “What else could they do to me?” asked Dana as he fought off tears.

    The doctor held out a small plastic bag. Inside were two tiny round objects.

    “What are those?” asked Dana.

    “They are a form of time-release hormones. The outside coating will slowly dissolve and release female hormones into your system. At least that’s what the accompanying documents stated.”

    “So I have these in my body?” asked Dana as he stared at the bag.

    The doctor nodded.

    “Can you get them out?”

    “I don’t know. We need to run a CAT scan on you to confirm what the documents state.”

    “And what do they say?” asked Dana.

    “There may be hundreds of these beads in you…throughout your body. If this is true it is unlikely we can get them out,” admitted the doctor.

    Dana sighed. “Any more good news?”

    “The hormone composition is unlike anything that we’ve seen…it’s highly concentrated…I have no idea who could have developed it.”

    “So as these beads dissolve I will become more feminine…especially now that I am no longer capable of producing testosterone,” stated Dana. “Can you counteract the beads with testosterone?”

    “The documents state that if we did this it would kill you,” said the doctor.

    Dana lowered his head. “What kind of sick fucks would do this?”

    “I don’t know…but we’re going to do what we can to help you,” said the doctor.

    Dana nodded.

    “We’re going to do what we can too,” said Detective Frey.

    “If you had investigated the campus femming cases when they got more extreme then you might have caught these people before they mutilated me,” said Dana.

    “Do you remember anything after you were abducted?” asked the detective ignoring Dana’s comments.

    Dana shook his head. “Nothing.”

    “If you do, please contact us,” said Detective Frey.

    Dana nodded.

    “Dana…your parents are waiting to see you,” said the doctor. “What do you want to do?”

    Dana sighed. “Do they know what happened to me?”

    The doctor nodded.

    “Then there’s no point in delaying this…” he said, his voice tailing off.

    “I’ll go get them,” said one of the nurses.

    “Wait,” said Dana. “Can you get me a robe? I don’t want to be in bed when they come in.”

Chapter 13

    Dana’s parents walked into his room. Even though they had been briefed on their son’s physical appearance they were stunned. Dana really looked like a young woman. However this didn’t make any difference to them as they rushed over and hugged him.

    “We’re so happy to have you back,” cried Kelly.

    “Thanks Mom,” replied Dana.

    Even though she was shocked that Dana’s feminine voice she tried not to show it.

    When they released Dana he sat down on the bed.

    “I suppose they told you everything,” said Dana.

    Jon and Kelly nodded.

    “The police said that they’re going to find who did this to you,” said Kelly.

    Dana rolled his eyes.

    “No offense but I doubt that,” replied Dana.

Detective Fry had left the room and not that it would have mattered to Dana as he would have said it anyway.

“Whoever did this to me has to be a large and well funded group. I think that they were using the campus femming incidents as a way of trying out the procedures they used on me,” he said.

“Did they tell you that the press is outside?” asked Jon.

“No…but it doesn’t surprise me,” replied Dana. “I imagine that this would be a juicy story…especially for the television stations.”

“The police said that they will keep them out of the hospital,” said Kelly. “When you’re released why don’t you come home with us?”

Dana shook his head. “I’m not running away.”

“They’ll come after you,” said Jon.

“No they won’t…I know to handle this…I’ll hold a press conference and tell them everything,” stated Dana firmly.

“Honey, you can’t do that…,” started Kelly.

Dana lifted his hand. “Mom, it’s the only way. If I come out and tell them what was done to me then they won’t have a reason to dog me. Also by coming out it will serve another purpose...the group that did this to me…expects me to fade away…I can’t do that. By coming out someone…somewhere might recognize the processes that were used…they might come out and tell the authorities…they might do it because it’s the right thing to do…or because they are afraid…doesn’t matter as long as we expose who did this to me.”

Dana took a sip of water.

“The group that did this obviously has a reason…I don’t know what it is…but maybe by someone will find out why,” he continued. “What do you think, Dad?”

 “I agree…and I’m very proud of you, Dana.”

    “Thank you, Dad,” replied Dana.

    “Honey, Jessica is out in the waiting room…do you want to see her?” asked Kelly.

    “I assume she knows what was done to me,” said Dana softly.

    “We told her,” replied Kelly. “Richard is with her now.”

    Dana sighed. “Might as well get it over with.”

Chapter 14

    Jessica nervously entered the hospital room and saw a tall attractive woman sitting on the edge of the bed. For a moment she thought she had entered the wrong room.

    “Hi Jessica,” said Dana.

    Jessica’s hand covered her mouth as she gasped in shock. She hadn’t expected Dana to look so feminine.

    “Dana…is that really you?”

    “It is now,” he replied.

    She walked in and hugged him…but Dana immediately noticed that it was a very fragile embrace. When he slipped his arms around her she even pulled back slightly.

    She then sat down in the chair next to the bed. As he told her what had been done he noticed her facial expression and realized that while they might be still be friends their relationship was over.

“I’m sorry about this,” he said.

    “It’s not your fault,” she said as she wiped away a tear. “I hate them…I hate what they did to you… and what they did to us…what they took away from us.”

    Dana nodded. “That’s what I’ve always loved about you…you have always been honest and open.”

    “I...I didn’t mean it that way, Dana,” she replied.

    “It’s okay, Jessica,” he replied.

    “I don’t know what to say,” she replied.

    “Can we still stay friends?” he asked.

    She stared back. “It’s that obvious?”

    Dana smiled. “Jessica, I can’t blame you…I barely recognize myself now. Even if they can change my face and make me look like a guy…I’ll never be the man that I once was. I think the only reason they didn’t completely change my gender was to try and humiliate me.”

    “What are you going to do?” she asked.

    “I’m going to fight back,” he replied as he explained his idea for the press conference. “I don’t want them bugging you or my parents. I also need to move on with my life.”

    She nodded. “What about the rest of your life?”

    Dana shook his head. “I don’t know yet…a lot will depend on what the doctors have to say.”

    Jessica sighed. “I’m so sorry…you deserve better than this.”

    There was a knock on the door.

    “Come in,” said Dana.

    The male doctor who was in the room earlier stepped inside. A nurse walked in with him.

    “I’m sorry but you need to get some rest…you have a big day ahead of you tomorrow,” he said.

    Dana nodded.

    Kelly stood up and waved goodbye.

    As she left, Dana could hear her crying…he knew how she felt, he also wanted to cry.

    “Do you feel like eating or sleeping?” asked the nurse.

    “I suppose I should eat,” replied Dana without emotion.

    “I’ll get you something…the food here isn’t that bad,” she said as she left.

    “Thank you,” replied Dana.

    “Oh, Dana, I have called a colleague. Her name is Dr. Laura Browning, she’s currently working in our medical school; she’s one of the top endocrinologists in the state…um that means she’s an expert on human hormones,” said the doctor.

    “I know what it means, doctor,” replied Dana. “My body has been changed…not my intellect.”

    “I’m sorry,” he replied.

    “It’s okay…I doubt they teach you how to handle cases like this,” said Dana.

    He nodded. “She’ll be here tomorrow…if that’s okay with you.”

    “It’s fine, thanks. Oh how long will I be here?”

    “A few days…,” he replied. “We need to run some tests on you.”

    “Can you do me a favor?” asked Dana.

    “What is it?”

    “I know there’s a growing media circus out in the parking lot…I image it’s becoming a real security nightmare,” said Dana.

    The doctor nodded.

    “I know you have a media person, can you have them stop by?”

    The doctor nodded.

    “Thanks,” replied Dana.

Chapter 15

    The public affairs officer was Joan Powers and she had been working for the university for three years.

    She had been briefed on Dana and she was curious why he wanted to see her. She called the advisor for the campus paper and he had nothing but high praise for Dana.

    She arrived outside his hospital room and knocked.

    “Please come in,” said what sounded like a woman.

    Joan looked at the door and the number matched the one she had been told.

    She stepped inside and saw a young woman sitting up in bed with a stack of magazines.

    “Are you Dana?” she asked.

    “Yes, I am. Sorry for the mess… but I’m trying to get caught up on the last thirty days.”

    “I’m Joan Powers and I believe you asked for me,” she said.

    “I know who you are, you spoke to us at the campus paper several times,” replied Dana.

    Joan nodded. “I’ve been trying to remember if we met…I have read your work…you’re an excellent writer.”

    “I’m not bad for a campus paper,” said Dana.

    Joan shook her head. “No, you have real talent.”

    “Thank you,” replied Dana. “Please have a seat.”

    Joan sat down in the chair next to the bed.

    “The reason I asked for you is that I would like to have a press conference concerning what was done to me,” replied Dana. “I figure that this might appease the zoo that’s outside.”

    Joan smiled. “So you’ve heard about that?”

    Dana nodded. “Judging by what I’ve been reading, it’s a slow news week.”

    She laughed and understood why Dana was so well liked.

    “If you tell the press that I will hold a press conference in a few days they might go away,” continued Dana. “I know this will be rough and I want to get it over with.”

    “I will see what I can do…the university is trying to…well avoid undo attention to what happened,” she said.

    “They’re doing a lousy job of it…they’re also too late,” replied Dana bitterly. “I saw the evening news and I could see the number of media trucks in the background…everyone loves a freak show. It will only get worse unless we do something…I do know how the media works.”

    “I’d love to argue with you…but you’re right. You know that the university might not allow you to hold the press conference on campus,” she said.

    Dana nodded. “Contact my editor Richard Lake; he’ll know where we can hold it off campus.”

    “I will…and I will do whatever I can to help you, Dana,” she said.

    “Thanks,” replied Dana. He then wrote down a number on a piece of paper. “Here’s the phone number for my parents…they’re staying in town.”

    “I’ll talk to them,” she said. “I’ll get back to you tomorrow.”

    “Thank you,” replied Dana.

Chapter 16

    Dana knew he would have to do it eventually and so he went into the bathroom and got undressed. He had to see what his body now looked like.

    His worse fears were confirmed as he stared at his naked body. His breasts, while not large, were round and shapely. His nipples were not only larger, but darker in color, which seemed to make them look even bigger. His waist was thin and flat. He now had well-rounded hips. He turned to look at his butt and saw that it was larger and rounder.

    He also noticed a floral pattern tattoo on the small of his back. It was very feminine.

    Almost every part of his body was changed. His arms and legs were no longer muscular. He also noticed that his skin seemed smoother and softer. With the exception of a small patch of public hair, his body was totally hairless.

    His now tiny flaccid penis looked out of place with the rest of his now feminized body. He still had his scotum, but it was empty thanks to the castration and it looked as useless as his penis.

    The more he looked at his body the more he realized that it would be virtually impossible to pass as a male.

    As he stared at his body and felt tears rolling down his face.

    A knock at the door snapped him out of it.

    “Yes?”

    “I was just checking on you. I’m Carol and I’m the nurse on this shift…are you okay?”

    Dana didn’t know how to initially reply.

    “As good as to be expected. I’m going to take a shower…I’ll be out in a few minutes, okay?”

    “Okay,” replied Carol.

    She had heard him crying and could only guess how shocking it would be to have one’s body changed. The doctors had told her shift to check on Dana regularly as they considered him a possible suicide risk.

    After the shower, Dana got dressed and went back to his bed.

    Carol knocked and entered.

    “Hi Dana, I’m Carol,” said the nurse. She was a middle-aged woman with black hair.

    “Hi,” replied Dana. “So how often do you have to check on me?”

    Carol smiled. “No set time. We’re just concerned about you.”

    Dana sat down on the bed. “I don’t imagine you’ve had a case like me before.”

    “No…but we have patients who have had to adjust to great changes in their lives all the time,” she replied. “I used to work in the cancer ward.”

    Dana nodded. “I guess it could have been worse. I’m a little worried about the tests tomorrow…the doctor seemed concerned…his bedside manner isn’t the best.”

    Carol smiled. “He’s an excellent doctor…but you’re right…he doesn’t have great personal skills. We call him Dr. Grump…but not to his face.”

    Dana smiled at the joke.   

    “I suppose I should be glad that they didn’t mutilate me or…or make me into some freak,” continued Dana. “Um, can I ask you a question…would you suspect that I was once a guy?”

    “No,” replied Carol honestly. “Your voice is a bit husky…but I know several women who have deeper voices. I don’t think you’ll have a problem passing…physically.”

    “Yeah…it will take some time to get used to…looking…looking like this,” replied Dana.

    Carol noticed that Dana didn’t say being a woman.

    They talked for nearly an hour and by the time she left, Carol knew that Dana wasn’t going to do anything stupid; still she would check on him just to play it safe, she also wanted to give Dana someone to talk to.

Chapter 17   

    Dana was up early the next morning to start a battery of tests. Most were pretty routine, but then came the CAT scan.

    It confirmed that Dana’s body was riddled with the hormone beads.

    Dr. Browning showed Dana the results of the tests.

    “Can you get them out?” asked Dana.

    “I’m not a surgeon, but I doubt it. It would require many hours of surgery…and even then I doubt we can get them all…many are located near vital organs. I suspect this was done on purpose…to prevent their removal,” she stated.

    “Have you ever seen anything like this?” asked Dana.

    “Not in person,” replied the pleasant looking woman. She was in her late forties, although she looked younger thanks to the many laps she swam every morning.

“I’ve read of cases like this…usually done as part of sexual slavery. I analyzed the sample beads and they match descriptions of the ones used in the cases I read about. I have sent them to a lab to be studied. I read that they were initially developed in Eastern Europe back in the early days of the cold war. They were used to get around Olympic drug tests. Over time they were changed and used in the sexual slavery trade.”

    “Is that who you think changed me?” asked Dana.

    “Maybe,” she replied. “I also agree with what you said that they used the femming incidents to try their new treatments. By the way, I think you’re an excellent writer.”

    Dana nodded. “Thank you. Um, Dr. Browning, I know you can’t tell me exactly what’s going to happen to me…but how about a ballpark estimate?”

    Laura smiled. She had expected Dana to be angry and embittered…not that she would have blamed him. Instead he was calm and levelheaded about what had been done to him. It was the exact opposite as she would have expected.

    “I don’t know the concentration of the hormones in each bead, but they are usually quite strong. Judging by the number of beads…and their different diameters, I would say that they’ll be in your system for three to five years. The changes will be very dramatic. Your body will become more feminine, your breasts will probably increase one to two cup sizes…based on your family history of course…your emotional state will also change.”

    Dana nodded.

    “What about the threat that giving me male hormones would be deadly?” asked Dana.

    “It’s possible,” she replied. “There could be a genetic engineering aspect that could led to health issues…most likely cardiac arrest,” she said.

    “What else?”

    “There’s also the risk of cancer,” she added. “To be honest, with the levels of female hormones in your body your cancer risk is already elevated.”

    Dana sighed. “They thought of everything, didn’t they?”

    She nodded.

    “What do you suggest?” asked Dana.

    “I can’t answer that for you Dana,” she said.

    “I know…but if you were in my shoes…what would you do?”

    “Do you mean how would I live my life?”

    Dana nodded.

    “I would move on with my life…as a woman,” she said. “To do otherwise might lead to a premature death. Besides, there might be a way to reverse this…some day.”

    Dana nodded. “That’s what I’ve been thinking.”

    “Dana, I have treated many transgendered patients...and even after they have transitioned, their lives have challenges.”

    “I know, but it would be easier than try and pretend that I’m still a man. Could I have the operation…so I could be whole?” asked Dana.

    “Physically, I don’t see any problems, but what about your mental state?”

    “You mean, do I still see myself as a man or a woman?”

    “Exactly,” she replied.

    “I don’t know…I just want to be whole…and if that means being a woman…so be it,” replied Dana.

    “That might not be enough,” replied Dr. Browning. “In most cases to get sexual reassignment surgery you need to meet very strict criteria.”

    “Does that include cases like me?” asked Dana.

    “Point taken,” she said. “I can arrange for you to meet a therapist…in fact after what has happened to you I’m surprised that they haven’t already brought one in.”

    “I’m doing okay,” replied Dana.

    “That’s what so strange…if I were you I would be freaking out,” she said.

    “I guess I’m too busy thinking of how I’m going to get back at whoever did this to me,” Dana replied.

    She shook her head. “Revenge isn’t enough…when that fades you’ll still have your whole life ahead of you.”

    “So what should I do, start crying?” asked Dana.

    “No, I’m not saying that…but you should allow yourself time to heal…and to mourn,” she said.

    “Mourn?”

    “Yes…part of you died when they did this,” she explained.

    Dana’s head dropped down.

    “I’m sorry,” she said.

    Dana looked up at her and wiped away the tears. “I guess you’re right…my girlfriend…broke up with me yesterday…I guess I can’t blame her…I need to have a purpose in my life now…otherwise I will lose it. They had no right to do this to me…and I want them to know that I haven’t given up. I think that’s why I want to be a woman now…at least I will whole and not in the limbo they left me.”

    “I still think you should think about this,” she said. “I’m not sure the press conference is a good idea. Why don’t you take a break…and think things out?”

    “No, I need to start my life over. If I try to be a guy imagine what my life would be like? If I try to slip away and live my life as a woman and change my identity someone will seek me out and expose me. What I’m going to do is take away their thunder. I’ll do the press conference, expose what was done to me and then move on. One of the things I have learned is that if something is being withheld from the press someone will want to find out what it is. I know this isn’t going to be easy and my life will be hell for a while, but it will pass faster if I do it this way. I don’t want to keep looking over my shoulder and wondering when I’m going to be outted.”

    “You’ll still risk being outted,” said Dr. Browning. “I know many transgendered people and it’s something they have to deal with. I recommend that if you chose this path that you join a support group.”

    “That’s not a bad idea,” stated Dana. “I mean in many ways I’m dealing with the same sort of issues.”

    Dr. Browning nodded and then she looked at her watch. “Well, we’re done here; I think you should go back to your room and rest.”

    “I am a little tired,” Dana replied. “Um, my parents will be here later, can I ask a favor?”

    “I’ll be there when you tell them,” she said.

    “Thank you,” Dana replied.

Chapter 18

    “Are you sure about this?” asked Kelly.

    Dana nodded. “It makes sense. I know this may look like a snap decision, but it isn’t. I’ve looked at all the options and this is the most doable. You and Dad have always told me to think to the future. I just want to get on with my life.”

    “So what do you want to be called?” asked Jon.

    Dana smiled as she realized that her father was on her side.

    “Let’s stick with Dana. Look, I’m not quitting but I have to accept the facts that these changes are permanent. Yes, I can have plastic surgery to look more masculine, but I will never have the face that I used to have. I’ve also been castrated and there’s no way to reverse that. Then there are the hormone beads in me. The CAT scan confirmed this…I have to face the fact that my body chemistry has been dramatically altered, right Doc?”

    “I’m afraid Dana’s right. The initial test results shows that the hormones are very powerful…I see little that we can do to reverse the effects,” stated Dr. Browning She then told Dana’s parents of the risks in trying using male hormones.

    “Dana, you know that we love you…and if you wish to be seen as a woman then we will be there for you…but are you sure about going public with this?” asked Kelly.

“If I try to be a guy imagine what my life would be like? If I live my life as a woman and change my identity someone will seek me out and expose me. What I’m going to do is take away their thunder... this will be on my terms. I will do the press conference, expose what was done to me and then move on. One of the things I have learned is that if something is being withheld from the press someone will want to find out what it is. I know this isn’t going to be easy and my life will be hell for a while, but it will pass faster if I do it this way. I don’t want to keep looking over my shoulder and wondering when I’m going to be outted. Mom, Dad, I wish there was another way, but I don’t see one.”

    There was a long silence.

    Jon then cleared his throat. “It’s obvious that you’ve given this a lot of thought. You’re our child…male or female…it doesn’t matter and we will love and support you.”

    Dana nodded. “Thanks Dad.”

    Kelly didn’t say a word. She just got up and hugged Dana.

    “Doc, will you appear at the press conference with me?”

    “Correction, with us,” interjected Jon as he slipped his arm around Kelly. “We’re going to be there for our daughter.”

    Dana felt a sudden rush of emotion and it was all she could do to keep from crying from joy.

    “You couldn’t keep me away,” replied Dr. Browning.

    “So when are we doing it?” asked Kelly.

    “I would like to hold off another day…I want to run some additional tests,” said Dr. Browning. She then looked at her watch. “Speaking of which, I’m expecting some results. I will see you all later.” 

    “Thanks, Doc,” said Dana.

    After she left, Dana looked at his parents. “I really like her…I feel I can trust her.”

    “So, is there anything we can do for you?” asked Kelly.

    “I’m going to need something to wear…I can’t do the press conference in a hospital gown,” said Dana. “I’m not exactly ready to wear a dress either…but I need something appropriate.”

    Before Kelly could reply there was a knock at the door and Jessica walked in.

    “Hi…I’m sorry I can come back later,” she apologized.

    “It’s okay, Jess,” said Dana. She told Jessica their plans.

    “It sounds like you made up your mind,” said Jessica.

    “It has nothing to do with us breaking up…it just makes sense…I hope we can stay friends,” said Dana.

    Jessica wiped away a tear. “Of course. Can I help your Mom pick out an outfit for you?”

    “I’d like that,” said Dana. “Thank you, Jess.”

Chapter 19

    Laura looked at the test results from the analysis of the hormone beads and it confirmed her fears. The hormones were extremely powerful and would continue to further feminize Dana.

    She knew that the local police were investigating the case, but she also knew it was well out of their league. No, this would have to be handled by a higher authority, the question was who?

    She sat at her desk and searched her mind before it hit her. Logging onto her computer she found the phone number of the person she thought could help.

    Laura dialed the number and was surprised when an actual person answered.

    “Hi. I’m Dr Laura Browning and I was once interviewed by you in Philadelphia. I’m dealing with an issue that…to be honest I don’t know where else to go.”

    “Yes, I remember you Doctor. I also read your latest book on SRS and teens. It was excellent, Dr. Browning,” replied the woman.

    “Thank you and please call me Laura.”

    “Okay…and you can call me Diana,” replied Diana Bowie. “So how can I help you?”

Chapter 20

    “Wow, this must have set you back,” stated Dana as she looked at the clothing that was laid out on her hospital bed.

    “It wasn’t that bad…and besides you’re going to need an entirely new wardrobe. We tried to get things that you could mix and match,” said Kelly. “Jessica was a huge help.”

    Jessica shrugged her shoulders. “It was just shopping.”

    Dana smiled at her. “I appreciate it.”

    “We tried to stick to more gender neutral outfits,” stated Jessica. “You’ll still look great, but it won’t be that big a difference from what you used to wear. Of course you’re going to have to get used to wearing a bra from now on.”

    “Of course…I just hope you didn’t buy too many…if the doctors are right I can expect to get bigger,” she said.  “So what do you suggest I put on first?”

    Jessica pointed to a solid green top and a pair of jeans. “Do want help with your bra?”

    Dana was about to say no, but then she nodded. “If you don’t mind.”

    Jessica smiled back. “If I did I wouldn’t have asked.”

    “Okay,” replied Dana. “I’ll go put on the panties and jeans first…um; do you want to come in the bathroom with me?”

    “There’s barely room for one person in there…why not change out here?” suggested Jessica.

    Dana looked at her mom.

    “Honey, if you want me to leave that’s fine…but I also want to help you,” said Kelly.

    “I suppose it doesn’t matter now anyway,” said Dana.

    She quickly slipped out of the hospital gown and into the panties and jeans.

    “They fit perfectly,” said Dana.

    Jessica handed Dana a bra. “Try this one on.”

    Dana struggled a little with the clasp, but eventually she eventually got it.

    Jessica then adjusted the straps.

    “How does that feel?” asked Jessica.

    “It’s okay,” replied Dana softly.

    “What’s wrong?” asked Kelly.

    Dana shrugged her shoulders. “It’s just the first time I’ve wore a bra…it’s also sinking in that I’m a woman…more or less now.”

    Kelly nodded as she handed Dana the top. “Try this on.”

    It fit perfectly.

    “Whoever styled your hair gave you one that is easy to maintain,” noted Jessica. “It does look good on you.”

    “I agree,” added Kelly.

    “Thanks…so what’s next?” asked Dana.

    “Here’s a new watch and some earrings…they’re just silver hoops…nothing too outlandish,” said Jessica. “When you get them on you can try on some of the shoes. I did get you a pair of sandals that should look good with your outfit.”

    A few minutes later Dana was looking at herself in the mirror.

    “In time we can teach you how to apply your makeup…but I think you should get used to this a little bit at a time,” said Kelly.

    “Why would I need makeup…they sort of took care of that didn’t they?” asked Dana.

    “The permanent makeup is a good start…but there will be times when you’ll want more,” said Kelly.

    “I can show you what to do,” added Jessica.

    Kelly’s cell phone went off.

    “Excuse me, I need to take this,” she said as she stepped outside.

    Dana looked at the other outfits.

    “Thanks for helping…I know this is hard on you too,” said Dana.

    Jessica sighed. “I’m sorry for the way I reacted the other day.”

    “It’s okay…I really can’t blame you…I mean…look at me,” said Dana.

    “I wish we could still be…well, look, I still want to be friends…actually I’ve been thinking about this…I want to help you get used to this…I’ve never had a sister…and if it’s okay with you…”

    Dana put up her hand. “I’d like that too, Jessica.”

    Jessica began to smile and then she broke down and began to cry.

    Dana began to hug her.

    “It’s not fair…whoever did this to you…they had no right,” she cried.

    “I know,” replied Dana. ‘They hurt more than just me…they hurt you and they hurt my parents too.”

    “How can you be so calm about this?” asked Jessica.

    “What do you mean? I’m not happy what was done to me,” Dana replied.

    “But you don’t show it…if my body was…abused like what happened to you…I would be furious…I would be freaking out,” she stated as she wiped away her tears.

    “I guess I’m too angry right now to let my emotions take over,” replied Dana.

    “You can’t keep these feelings inside,” said Jessica. “They’re going to keep building up and they’re going to overwhelm you.”

    Dana nodded. “You’re not the first to tell me this. I’ve been more upset about how this has affected us.”

    “Maybe doing this press conference isn’t the best idea.”

    Dana shook her head adamantly. “I don’t want to have to out myself…but if I don’t I will be hounded by the press…as will my parents… and as will you.”

    “Well, when it is over, promise me that you’ll look after yourself?” she asked.

    “I plan on it,” replied Dana.

Chapter 21

    “Why?” demanded Dana.

    Joan looked uncomfortable. “The…the university doesn’t want the spotlight on them.”

    “Figures,” stated Dana with bitterness.

    “So we can’t hold the press conference on campus?” asked Jon.

    “That’s correct,” replied Joan. “I’m sorry, Dana.”

    “Fine…we’ll just hold it somewhere else,” replied Dana. “The university can’t object to that…can they?”

    “They would prefer that you just keep quiet for now,” replied Joan.

    “I bet they would,” replied Dana with hostility. “I bet they would wish that I would just fade away…not going to happen!”

    “Your friend Richard wrote an editorial about how the university had been so gutless over what happened to you,” said Joan.

    “Really? When will it be in the paper?”

    Joan shook her head. “It won’t be…the university has ordered no further coverage of what happened to you. They said that since it’s part of an active investigation they don’t want to interfere.”

    “I don’t imagine Richard liked that,” said Dana.

    Joan nodded. “He resigned over it. I’ve made a few calls and we’re hoping to get his editorial published in the mainstream press.”

    “Wow…Richard really quit?” asked Dana.

    Joan nodded.

    Dana sighed. She felt guilty over not allowing Richard in to see her.

    “I need to give him a call,” said Dana.

    “I wish I could do more,” continued Joan. 

    Dana shook her head. “I need to speak about what was done to me…if I don’t then whoever did this to me won.”

    “I wish I could help…but I’ve been told not to assist you…I’m really sorry,” said Joan.

    She wished she could be as brave as Dana, but she couldn’t afford to lose her job.

    Dana nodded. “I understand.”

    As soon as Joan left Dr. Browning got up and locked the door.

    “I have a suggestion…not a recommendation,” she said.

    “What is it?” asked Jon.

    “I contacted someone who might be able to help. She just arrived in town and I’m going to leave you her phone number,” said Dr. Browning as she handed Dana a business card with a name and phone number written on the back.

    Dana read the name and smiled. “Is this who I think it is?”

    Dr. Browning nodded. “I will be happy to speak at the press conference even though I am considered faculty. If the university gets upset I can go back to my practice.”

    “Thank you. So how do you know Diana Bowie?”

    “I’ve met her professionally…and I’ve also been a huge fan of her work.”

    “Where do I know that name?” asked Jon.

    “Diana Bowie used to be on CNN as a crime expert. She’s also written dozens of best sellers,” said Dana. “She also went through something similar.”

    Jon nodded. “Call her.”

Chapter 22

    Richard sat across from Dana and Jessica. He was stunned by how feminine Dana looked…in fact he barely recognized his friend.

    “I should have been more forceful about talking you out of writing those articles,” said Richard.

    “Nonsense,” replied Dana. “The only people I’m upset with are the ones who did this to me.”

    Richard wasn’t so sure and it showed on his face.

    Dana smiled slightly. “Look, I don’t blame you one bit for this…we had no idea that they would do this to me.”

    “Okay, thanks…so back to the press conference…are you sure that this is a good idea?”

    “No…but like that has ever stopped me. Seriously, it’s no secret what was done to me, I’ve read the local paper and see the stuff online…most of which is inaccurate by the way…what they did to me was worse than what was written. No, I need to clear the air so I won’t be the focus of this. The local police aren’t going to solve this case, and they don’t appear to be asking for any help…the only way to get the bastards who did this to me is to get some attention at the national level. There’s something very evil behind this...from what I’ve been told by Dr. Browning this isn’t something that someone thought up as some prank or minor political statement.”

    Richard nodded. “You obviously have a theory.”

    “I had been doing some investigating prior to my abduction…I think whoever did this to me used the campus femming as an excuse to try some new procedures…procedures used in sexual slavery.”

    “Sexual slavery?” asked Jessica.

    Dana nodded. “It’s a worldwide billion dollar industry…and there are markets for all tastes…including feminized males.”

    “Okay, so why didn’t whoever changed you…sell you as a slave?” asked Richard.

    Dana shrugged her shoulders. “Maybe I’m too old…too tall…I don’t know…I think that they just wanted to test their hormones and other procedures. Maybe they were content to just try and screw up my life.”

    “Have you thought about what they might do to you after you go public?” asked Richard.

    “Yes, and I’ve also thought about the indignity of giving in and slinking away without fighting back. I’m pissed about this… and to be honest fighting back is the only thing holding me together right now,” she admitted. Dana then looked at Jessica. “You’re right…this is building up inside me…I know that I need help…but I have to strike back first…does that make sense?”

    “I don’t know…nothing makes sense,” she replied softly. “But I will support you.”

    “You can count me too, Dana,” replied Richard.

    “Thank you,” she replied.

    “So when are you leaving the hospital?” asked Richard.

    “Dr. Browning is working on that as we speak,” replied Dana.

Chapter 23

    Two hours later Dana was sitting in a suite hotel room with her parents, Jessica, Richard, and Dr. Browning.

    Dana looked her watch. “When did Diana Bowie say she would be arriving again?”

    “Relax, Dana, she’ll be here shortly,” stated Dr. Browning.

    “Who is this lawyer that she’s bringing with her?” asked Jon.

    “Her name is Trish Andrews and she works for a nonprofit organization that provides legal assistance to the transgendered community,” replied Dr. Andrews. “She has an excellent reputation and has represented transgendered victims in many high profile cases.”

    “I feel a little funny accepting help from her…I mean I don’t consider myself transgendered,” stated Dana.

    Dr. Browning cocked her head. “How else would you describe yourself? I know this was forced on you…but you’re now going to have to deal with many of the same real world issues that transgendered people have had to…Trish and her organization can also help you with the legal issues regarding your new gender.”

    Dana sighed. “I hadn’t thought of that. I mean I have to get my status changed legally.”

    “But Dana, don’t you have to wait until after you have the operation?” asked Kelly.

    Dr. Browning shook her head. “Not in this state. The fact that Dana presents herself as female is sufficient…add to that all the physical changes…and I doubt that there will be any legal arguments, still it will make things easier with good legal representation.”

    There was a knock on the door and Dr. Browning got up to answer it. She greeted two women.

The first was a woman with short curly hair. The woman was dressed professionally in a suit. The second woman was dressed more casually in jeans, boots and a white silk blouse. Her auburn colored hair was styled short.

“Laura, it’s good to see you again,” greeted the woman with auburn hair.

“I was about to say the same thing, Diana,” replied Dr. Browning. “Please come in.”

Dr. Browning introduced Diana Bowie to Dana and the others and then Diana introduced Trish.

They then sat down to discuss the case.

“Laura has briefed me on your case, Dana,” stated Diana. “I understand that the university has withdrawn all support for your press conference.”

Dana nodded. “We’re still planning on holding it…Dr. Browning suggested that we wait until you arrived before we finalized the plans.”

“I can understand why you want to do this…I mean so much has been leaked to the press already,” said Diana.

“I just want to get my side of the story out…I would have preferred that no one knew what happened to me…but there’s nothing I can do about that now,” replied Dana.

“With your permission, I would like Trish to handle the details of the press conference…so that I can stay in the shadows,” stated Diana.

“Why?” asked Jon.

“I agree with Dana that there’s more to this…the procedures done to your daughter aren’t cheap or easily performed. I have connections that I would like to use to investigate this…and it would work better if I’m not out in the open with you. Don’t worry; I want to help Dana and all of you through this traumatic time in your lives. Unfortunately I have some experience in these sorts of things.”

Dana nodded. “I read ‘Corruption in a Small Town’ last year for one of my classes…it was excellent. I also liked your most recent one about the case in Virginia,” said Dana. She then snapped her fingers and smiled at Trish. “Now I remember where I know you from…you helped bring down that jerk Commonwealth Attorney!”

Trish smiled back. “It was my pleasure.”

“So, who do you think is behind this…and what will they do to Dana if she holds this press conference?” asked Jon.

“I’ve made some inquiries. I’ve also forwarded Dana’s medical information to a friend I have in the Agency.”

The Agency was a hybrid federal law enforcement organization. It dealt with both foreign and domestic crime and often acted as the go-between other federal agencies such as the FBI, NSA, and The CIA. For many years it was so secretive that most people didn’t even know that it existed.

Dana let out a low whistle. “That high?”

Diana nodded. “They’ve had a lot of experience in dealing with these sorts of groups…I’m surprised that the local police didn’t do it already.”

“I doubt the local police give a damn,” said Dana.

“I have to agree,” added Trish.

“Back to my last question…do you think that Dana is at risk?” asked Jon.

    “There’s no guarantee…but they had Dana for a month…and they must have known that she wouldn’t keep quiet…the question should be is why they let her go in the first place,” said Diana.

    “Add to that the fact they provided the hospital with a complete medical file…it doesn’t make sense,” added Trish. “However to answer your question I think Dana is more at risk if we don’t do anything. The press…smells a big story…and I’ve found the best way to shut them down is to come out with the info. To be honest I’m surprised they have let you alone so long. I recommend we hold the press conference tomorrow and get it over.”

    “Sounds like a plan to me,” said Dana.

    Jon and Kelly looked at each other and nodded.

    “Okay…we’ll go with your recommendations,” he said.

    “I’ll get right on it,” said Trish.

    “I’d like to talk to you Dana,” said Diana.

    “I’d like that,” replied Dana.

Chapter 24

    “It was nice that you and your family got suites right next to each other,” said Diana.

    Dana nodded.

    They were sitting on the couch in the other suite.

    “So…how are you doing? And be honest…remember, I went through some similar experiences,” said Diana.

    “I’m focused on this press conference right now…and it’s keeping my emotions under control…I don’t know what will happen afterwards,” she replied. “To be honest, I haven’t given it much thought…maybe because I don’t want to think about it.”

    “Honest answer,” replied Diana. “I’ll be blunt…it won’t be easy, you’re going to have some bad days, the emotional side effects of something like this can be harsh.”

    Dana nodded. “Thanks for not sugar-coating it.”

    Diana laughed. “I’m not known for that…seriously, don’t try and take this on by yourself.”

    “What do you suggest?”

    “Do you have a therapist yet?”

    Dana shook her head.

    “You should…trust me on this one,” said Diana.

    “What else?”

    “The young woman, Jessica, is she your girlfriend?”

    “Was…we’re still friends…but that part is over…not that I can blame her,” said Dana barely holding back her emotions.

    Diana noted the change in Dana.

    “I take it you two were close,” said Diana.

    “Almost engaged…I was waiting until after I graduated,” continued Dana.

    “I’m sorry,” replied Diana. “I’m glad you’re still friends.”

    “I suppose it’s better than nothing…I guess I better get used to that.”

    “You mean not being with someone?”

    Dana nodded. “You know what was done to me.”

    “You can have a sex life if you have the surgery,” said Diana.

    “I know…Dr. Browning told me. But that’s just physical…does that make sense?”

    “Yes it does. I’ve met several people who have had gender change forced on them and it is possible to have a full life…it will take time and adjustments. I know some people who can help you make those adjustments.”

    “Thanks,” replied Dana.

    “I must admit that whoever did this to you didn’t seem to spare any details,” she commented. “I know this doesn’t mean a lot to you right now, but you are quite attractive and you shouldn’t have any problems passing.”

    “If they wanted to punish me…why did they do that?” asked Dana.

    “I don’t know…there are many things about this that doesn’t make sense,” replied Diana.

    “I’ve been told that I will continue to…um fill out…thanks to the hormones they gave me,” she said.

    “You’ll need to get a medical doctor too…especially regarding the hormones,” said Diana.

    “I know…Dr. Browning said that I will need to have regular mammograms,” replied Dana. “I know they’re important…but I’m not looking forward to them.”

    “No one does,” replied Diana.

    “Can I ask you something?”

    Diana nodded.

    “You’ve never hidden the fact that you’re transgendered…do you ever regret that?”

    “No,” replied Diana. “I mean, I wish I had been born female…it would have saved me a lot of problems. I also didn’t have a choice due to the nature of my transformation. Yes, I’ve run into my share of bigots…but I’ve also have many wonderful friends.”

    “Do you think that this will affect my chances of becoming a reporter?” asked Dana.

    “It will close some doors…both it will open some others,” she replied. “I’ve read some of your articles…Laura forwarded them to me…you’re quite good. When you’re ready to start looking for work, let me know…I would be happy to put in a good word for you.”

    A slight smile appeared on Dana’s face. “I take it you think I should take some time off.”

    Diana nodded. “You need to get your head straight. How close are you to graduating?”

    “I have enough credits now…I was just finishing my last semester with the paper,” she replied.

    “Good,” replied Diana.

    “I still have student loans to pay off…and I don’t want to be a burden to my family,” continued Dana.

    “I think I may have a way to help you pay off them off and recover at the same time,” stated Diana.

    Dana cocked her head. “How?”

    “A friend of mine runs a foundation in Connecticut for transgendered teens and young adults. They have facilities that could help you adjust…and at the same time you could work on your writing,” she said.

    “Really?”

    Diana nodded. “With your permission I will call her and you two can talk. Part of the foundation’s goals is to prepare those they are helping for the outside world. They’ve wanted to start a newsletter to keep the parents and loved ones informed on what is going on…I know this isn’t investigative reporting, but it’s writing.”

    Dana smiled back.

    “Seriously Dana…you have a hard road ahead…it will not be easy and you will have your share of bad days…but will the help and love of others you can get through it.”

    Dana opened her mouth and was about to say something…instead she began to cry. Diana leaned over and gently hugged her.

    “Let it out, Dana,” she said softly.

Chapter 25

    “It’s all set,” said Trish. “I talked to a friend and they are letting us use the main hall of the local LGBT center. They were very pleased that we asked them.”

    “What time will it be?” asked Dana.

    “Tomorrow at 1 PM,” she replied. “We’ll get there early and set up.”

    “Has anyone confirmed?’ asked Richard.

    “All the local media will be there, several of the cable networks, NPR, FOX, and several other national media,” replied Trish.

    “Is this what you expected?” asked Jon.

    Trish looked at Diana who shook her head.

    “I’m a little surprised by the national turnout…I mean, we didn’t contact them, we only notified the local press,” replied Trish.

    “It’s not unheard of…I mean, it is a slow news week, but it’s unexpected,” replied Diana.

    “You feel okay about this, Dana?” asked Trish.

    Dana nodded. “I just want to get this over and move on with my life,” she replied.

    “I know you won’t be out with us, Diana, so where will you be watching this from?” asked Kelly.

    “I have my press credentials, so I’ll just sit in the back and listen,” replied Diana.

    “Sounds like you’re trying to gather info,” said Dana.

    “I’d like to see their reaction,” she replied.

    Dana could tell there was more to it than Diana was letting on, but she figured she would be told about it later.

    Trish looked at her watch. “It’s time.”

    Dana nodded and hugged her parents, Jessica, and the others before heading out to the conference room.

    Dana’s parents insisted on sitting next to her during the press conference, while Jessica would stay backstage with Richard.

Chapter 26

    As planned Trish ran the show. Dana read a prepared statement that described her involvement in the campus femming incidents. She also told the crowd about the threats and her abduction and her decision to live out her life as a woman. She also explained why she was making this all public.

    “I had two options; one was to try in stay in hiding, but there’s no guarantee that I wouldn’t be outted. I didn’t want to live my life in fear. I also didn’t want my family and friends bothered. The second option is being open about what was done to me. Yes, I will now be known for what was done to me, but it will allow me to live my life without fear,” she explained.

Dr. Browning followed and described the medical procedures that had been performed on Dana.

    The second part of the conference involved Dana and the others answering questions.

    The first question was directed to Dana and asked why she was now identifying herself as female.

    “As Dr. Browning explained it would be difficult, if not impossible to pass as a male. I will also become more feminine due to the hormones implanted throughout my body. If I tried to go on male hormones it would put my life at risk…I know this will be a difficult transition. Physically I look female…but mentally I will have to adjust.”

    Dana took a drink of water as she waited for the next question.

    “The authorities seem to be treating this as a prank…how do you feel about that?” asked a reporter.

    “Have you ever heard of someone castrating someone as a prank?” asked Dana. “No, this wasn’t a prank…I don’t know who did this to me…or why, but whoever did it had money and medical experience.”

    “I agree,” said Dr. Browning. “The techniques used on Dana are on the cutting edge of modern surgery. They took great care to avoid infection and minimize scarring. They also provided a detailed medical record to the hospital when they released Dana.”

    “It sounds like someone is showcasing their medical skills,” said a reporter from CNN.

    Dr. Browning agreed.

    “Do you think that the people that did this to you will be angry for you talking about it?” asked a reporter from Fox.

    “I don’t know…and really don’t care,” replied Dana. “What else can they do to me? They had their opportunity to kill me. By going public I hope that someone…somewhere might know who did this to me and that they might contact the authorities so no one else is changed like this.”

    Diana sat in back and studied the crowd. She suspected that someone in the crowd might not be a reporter and the person was working for the group that changed Dana.

    She also knew that the crowd was being secretly taped by a detective from the Boudicca Agency.

Chapter 27

    “How did I do?” asked Dana afterwards.

    “You were wonderful,” replied Kelly as she hugged her daughter.

    Trish smiled. “I thought you did great. You answered all their questions and you thoroughly explained what happened.”

    “Do you think that they’ll leave me alone?” asked Dana.

    “I suspect they will…you’ll probably get requests for interviews and we can screen those for you,” said Diana.

    Dana nodded as she flopped down in a chair. “The next question is do you think that this will help find who transformed me?”

    “It will generate publicity and that will help; it will also force the local police on the defensive and that means that they can’t just sit back and do nothing…hopefully it will force them to ask for help,” said Trish. “The biggest problem that we deal with when gender crimes is that law enforcement is often apathetic. I know for a fact that several of the reporters present here today will be contacting the police.”

    Dana stifled a yawn.

    “Honey, why don’t you go lie down…you look exhausted,” said Kelly.

     Dana nodded. “I do feel tired…but I have so many questions.”

    “I agree with your mother,” said Diana. “Don’t worry; we’ll be here when you get up.”

    Dana stood up and nodded. “Thanks…thanks for everything.”

Chapter 28

    “Well, how did it go?” asked the woman.

    “Just as we planned,” replied the man as he walked into her home. “Video of the press conference has been sent to all our perspective clients.”

    He picked up a crystal decanter and poured himself a drink.

    “She performed just as you programmed her,” he continued.

    The woman smiled. “Excellent.”

    The man took a sip of his drink. “She’s a walking, talking advertisement for your process. You told our clients how she would act and she didn’t disappoint. I imagine the orders will start rolling in, of course they will want submissive sluts…not a confident well spoken young woman.”

    The woman nodded. “Yes, but it’s much more difficult to program someone to act normal and mainstream. Dana will continue to accept her feminine status with each passing day. I can do the same with any male…and I can make them as obedient and twisted as our clients wish. I must admit that I had my doubts when you came to me with your plan. I could have made a tidy sum on selling Dana…but by using her to show off my skills she will pay for herself in a very short time.”

    “When will the new lab be up and operational?” asked the man.

    “Within a few weeks, I could do it faster here in the states, but the risks are too high. No, it will be safer to do it south of the border…the police are cheaper to bribe too.”

    “What do you want to do about the chief of police? The press will be putting a lot of pressure on him…and he’s not too bright…he might start talking,” said the man. “He doesn’t know much, but no sense in leaving loose ends.”

    “He’s served his purpose…I don’t see any reason for him to be around any more, do you?”

    The man shook his head.

    “Make it look like an accident…or better yet a suicide,” said the woman.

    “No problem…that’s why you hired me, right?” he said with a wink.

    “That was one of the reasons,” she replied.

    “What about Dana?” he asked.

    “I’m not worried about her…she served her purpose and soon her final bit of programming will take over,” said the woman.

    The man smiled back.

Chapter 29

    Diana studied the video of the press conference. She recognized many of the national reporters and was able to identity the local media thanks to the internet. There was one TV crew that she didn’t recognize.

She referred to the list of press credentials and by process of elimination she found the station. It was listed as WURI, which didn’t ring a bell with her.

    She looked up the station on the internet and couldn’t find a match. She then ran a search of the reporter’s name and again came up with nothing.

    Diana picked up her phone and called Trish.

    “What do you have on the group from WURI? They claim to be from Rhode Island, but I can’t find anything on them,” she said.

    “Are you sure?” asked Trish.

    “Yes, I found them on our surveillance video and they had a FOX logo on their camera,” said Diana.

    “I’ll be there in a few minutes,” said Trish.

    Diana showed Trish what she had discovered.

    “Do you think they’re connected to the people who transformed Dana?” asked Trish.

    “Maybe,” replied Diana. “I’d like to get Max’s opinion on this…if you don’t mind.”

    Max was Max Bowie; a retired federal agent and semi-retired private detective. For all practical purposes he was Diana’s father.

    “Of course, you know I trust your intuition,” replied Trish.

    “I’d like to pass this off to the feds, but I want to get his opinion first,” continued Diana.

Trish looked at her watch. “Oh, are you joining us for dinner?”

Diana nodded. “I’ll meet you over in Dana’s suite shortly.”

Chapter 30

Diana had just finished her conversation with Max when there was frantic knocking on her door.

She got up and when she opened the door she saw Jessica.

“Diana…please come quick…Dana…Dana…tried…she tried to kill herself,” exclaimed Jessica.

Diana and Jessica rushed over to Dana’s room. The EMTs had just arrived and they were working on Dana.

“What happened?” asked Diana.

Trish shook her head. “Kelly went in to wake up Dana to see if she wanted to go to dinner and she found her unconscious on the bathroom floor. There was an empty bottle of tranquilizers lying next to her.” 

“Were they pills that were given to Dana?” asked Diana.

“Not according to Dr. Browning,” replied Trish. “Neither of Dana’s parents remembers seeing anyone at the hospital give her any pills.”

“Dana hated taking pills,” stated Jessica. “I had to force her to just take Tylenol when she had a headache.” 

The EMTs wheeled Dana out to the waiting ambulance.

“I’ll go get my car,” said Diana.

Chapter 31

“I don’t understand where she could have gotten those pills,” stated Dr. Browning as they sat in the waiting room of the hospital. “There is nothing about them in her record.”

“Do you think they might have been given to her by accident?” asked Kelly.

Dr. Browning shook her head. “The campus hospital doesn’t stock that particular tranquilizer. In fact, no one does…it hadn’t been approved by the FDA in this country.”

Diana wrote the name of the drug down for Max.

“Okay, but why would Dana try to kill herself?” asked Jon.

“I have no idea,” stated Dr. Browning.

The ER doctor stepped out into the waiting area.

“We were lucky,” he said. “Another ten minutes or so and she wouldn’t have made it.”

Kelly began to cry and was comforted by Jon.

“How is she?” asked Jon.

“She’s resting…she’ll have one hell of a headache for a while,” replied the doctor.

“Can we see her?” asked Kelly.

“I’ll have the nurse take you to her room,” said the Doctor. 

Chapter 32

Diana called Max and updated on Dana’s condition.

“And she claims to have no memory of taking the pills?” asked Max over the phone.

“Exactly. She said that the last thing she remembered was going to the bathroom,” said Diana. “I don’t think she tried to kill herself.”

“Does the press know about this yet?” asked Max.

“No, but it’s just a matter of time,” replied Diana.

    “Talk to the hospital and tell them not to release any information,” he stated.

    “Okay,” she replied. “Obviously you don’t think that Dana tried to kill herself either.”

    “No…she may have taken the pills, but I doubt she knew what she was doing,” he said.

    “What do you mean?”

    “These people had her for almost a month…that’s plenty of time to implant some thoughts into Dana’s mind. I’m going to call the Agency.”

    “Okay,” replied Diana. “Thanks, Dad.”

Chapter 33

    Max’s call was forwarded to the new Assistant Director.

    Max didn’t have the same sort of history with her as he had had with Robert Ledyard. However, since she was personally selected by her predecessor, Robert Ledyard, which was good enough for Max.

    “Thank you for taking my call, Ms. Burns,” he said.

    “Please call me Ally,” she replied.

    When Robert Ledyard retired he had given Ally a short list of people that he recommended that she give immediate attention to; Max was on that list.

    He gave her the short version of what had happened regarding Dana Rawlings.

    “I read the initial report on the abduction. I also have the medical file sent to us by Dr. Browning,” she stated. “I agree with you that this isn’t some local group…and it definitely isn’t a prank. It almost sounds twisted enough for Margo Simon.”

    “Well, we both know it can’t be her,” replied Max.

    Margo Simon had been killed by Ally the previous fall.

    “I’ll send out an agent to work with you,” she said.

    “I appreciate it,” he said. “So, how’s the new job?”

    “It will take a while until I feel comfortable…it’s never easy replacing a legend,” she replied.

    “You’ll do fine…Robert wouldn’t have recommended you if he didn’t think you were the best person for the job.”

    “Thank you, Max, that means a lot coming from you,” replied Ally.

    “You’re welcome,” he replied.

Chapter 34

    “How’re you feeling this morning, Dana?” asked Dr, Browning.

    “Awful…physically and mentally,” she replied as she sat up in her hospital bed.

    “The side effects of the overdose will pass,” said Dr. Browning.

    “Maybe…but I still have no idea why I did it,” said Dana.

    “Do you feel like talking?” asked Dr. Browning.

    Dana laughed slightly. “Isn’t that what we’re doing?”

    “Not with me…Diana has two people who want to talk to you about what was done to you and what happened yesterday.”

    “Who are they?” asked Dana.

    “One is a private detective and the other is a federal agent,” replied Dr. Browning.

    Dana’s eyes lit up. “Really?”

    Dr. Browning nodded. “The Agency has an excellent reputation in fighting sexual slavery traffickers.”

    “Okay…when do they want to see me?”

    “Right now, if you feel up to it,” said Dr. Browning.

    Dana scratched her head. “I guess there is no time like the present.

Chapter 35

    Diana brought Max and the agent inside Dana’s hospital room and introduced them.

    “Dana, this is Max Bowie,” she said.

    Dana broke out in a big smile. “The same Max Bowie who you’ve written about?”

    Diana nodded.

    “I didn’t know I was so famous,” stated Max. “Pleased to meet you Dana.”

    “The pleasure is all mine, I loved how you helped Diana put that corrupt jerk away in Virginia,” said Dana.

    Max smiled. “That was fun…but a lot of people worked on that case.”

    “Dana, this is Special Agent Matt Walsh,” introduced Diana.

    Dana looked at the large agent.

    Matt was over six feet tall and looked a little like the TV character Thomas Magnum.

    Matt and Dana shook hands.

    “I’ll see you later, Dana,” said Diana.

    “You’re not staying?” asked Dana.

    Diana shook her head. “I can’t, but don’t worry you can trust them. I’ll be back to talk after they leave.”

    Dana nodded.

    Max and Matt sat down next to Dana’s hospital bed. She noticed Matt taking a small tape recorder out of his coat pocket. He turned it on and set it down on the table next to the bed.

    “We read the file on your case, Dana,” said Max. “And we were briefed on what happened in the last twenty-four hours.”

    “I honestly have no idea why I took the pills,” stated Dana. “However, I do remember more about what happened. It’s been coming back slowly…like remembering a dream…or a nightmare.”

    “Can you tell us what happened when you went into your hotel room?” asked Matt.

    “I was exhausted after the press conference, but I also felt so great that I had done it. I was excited that so many members of the media showed up…I hoped that maybe it would lead to catching the people who did this to me. I decided to take a nap,” she said. Dana then took a sip of water. “Anyway, I went to the bathroom and I saw the bottle of pills on the counter. I remember picking them up... more out of curiosity…I had no idea why they were there…then I was overcome with a strong compulsion… without hesitating I opened the bottle and began to take the pills…I couldn’t stop. I tried to go out to the others…but I couldn’t.”

    “You mean you were too weak from the pills?” asked Matt.

    Dana shook her head. “No…it was like I wasn’t allowed…does that make sense? It was like I had to just sit down and let the pills kill me.”

    “It does, Dana. I think that whoever transformed you also implanted mental instructions,” said Max.

    “You mean, I was brainwashed?” asked Dana.

    “Maybe,” he replied.

    “We have some medical experts who I would like you to see,” said Matt. “Unfortunately we’ve had some experience in these sorts of things.”

    “Diana said that you were very forceful about holding the press conference…almost to the point where it was the dominant drive in your life,” said Max.

    Dana nodded. “But why would the people who changed me want me to hold a press conference?”

    “We’re working on that,” said Matt.

    “That’s not good enough, Agent Walsh…please tell me what you think?” demanded Dana.

    Matt barely contained a smile.

    “What’s so funny?” asked Dana.

    “You remind me of a very close friend...someone who went through something similar,” he replied. “Okay, we’re searching online sources…websites that cater to sexual slavery…there’s a possibility that the press conference was used to show you off.”

    “What like an infomercial?” asked Dana.

    He nodded. “Something like that; we’ve seen groups use the Internet before.”

    “So they could show how feminine I was…” said Dana.

    “And that you acted just as you were programmed,” he continued.

    Dana nodded. “And the taking of the pills…that was to get rid of me…as I wasn’t needed anymore. So that’s why they let me go…they used me…those fucking bastards used me! God damnit!” exclaimed Dana. She then burst into tears and began to sob.

    Max got up and sat down on the side of the bed. Dana immediately wrapped her arms around him and hugged him as she cried. Max gently comforted her as she cried.

Chapter 36

    Dana stepped out of the bathroom after washing her face.

    “I’m sorry about that,” she said.

    “Nothing to apologize for, Dana; actually I was expecting it,” said Max. “In a way, I was glad to see an emotional reaction.”

    Dana sat down on the edge of the bed.

    “I’m so scared…I guess the self confidence I was showing before was all part of the programming…what am I going to do? I just looked in the mirror and I don’t recognize myself…I’m a freak now…”

    “Dana, it’s not going to be easy, but you’ll get through this,” said Max.

    “How?” asked Dana as she began to cry again.

    “There’s a place that can help you…they’ve dealt with many cases like yours,” said Max.

    “What…an asylum?” she asked as she laughed nervously.

    “No, it’s a foundation designed to help teens and young adults like you. Remember Bobbi from the Virginia case? Well she is a graduate of their program,” said Max.

    Dana nodded. “Are you talking about that place in Connecticut that Diana was talking about?”

    “Yes,” he replied. 

     “I’ll think about it…Max…I hurt so bad,” she said as she began to cry again.

    “I know, Dana,” he replied as he hugged her again.

Chapter 37

    Jon and Kelly sat across from Diana and Trish. Dr. Browning had arranged for them to use an empty office so they could talk. She was standing against the wall behind Diana and Trish.

    “This foundation sounds like the prefect place for Dana to go and recover,” said Jon.

    “It’s been a godsend,” stated Trish.

    “I wish there had been a place like this when I transitioned,” added Diana.

    Kelly nodded. “I just want my child to be happy and to get a chance to heal.”

    “I don’t want to scare you, but Dana is going to have a long hard journey ahead of her…but having her parents on her side will make a world of difference,” said Diana. “My birth parents were far from understanding…but thankfully I had my aunt and Max, they became my parents and without them I doubt I could have survived.”

    “We’ll do whatever it takes,” said Jon.”

    “Well the good thing is that you don’t have to worry about the cost. The foundation is funded by confiscated funds from sexual predators,” said Diana.

    Jon and Kelly both nodded.

    “And the good news is that Dana will already know a member of the staff,” said Dr. Browning.

    “Who is that?” asked Kelly.

    Dr. Browning pointed at herself. “I was just hired.”

    Diana turned around with a surprised look on her face.

    “When did this happen?” asked Diana.

    Dr. Browning smiled back. “I decided that I needed a change and I called them yesterday. I start next week.” 

    Diana smiled. “Good for you.”

    “They’re very lucky to have you,” added Trish.

    Diana nodded. “I agree.”

    “I know Dana will also be happy,” said Kelly. “She really likes you.”

    “I like her too,” said Dr. Browning.

    “So when can they take her?” asked Jon.

    “As soon as she is released from here,” said Dr. Browning.

    Jon nodded. “What about her safety.”

    “The site is very secure,” said Diana. “Max helped them design their security system. The head of security used to be an agent.”

    “And if you want to stay up there, they have guest houses on site,” added Trish.

    “If Dana wants to go then we will support her,” said Kelly.

Chapter 38

    Max and Matt met with Dana’s parents later that afternoon.

    They briefed them what they had talked about.

    “We’re bringing in an expert to check her out,” said Max.

    “An expert?” asked Jon.

    “In mind control; it’s our belief that Dana was programmed to take the pills. We’re treating it as attempted murder,” added Matt.

    “Mind control? Isn’t that a bit out there?” asked Kelly.

    Matt shook his head. “We’ve seen it used in many similar cases. The Agency has opened an investigation regarding what was done to Dana; we believe it is part of a sexual slavery ring. The rich clients want a slave that is easily controlled and modified so that they behave in a desired manner.”

    “And you think Dana was used as an example of what this group could do?” asked Jon.

    “Yes,” he replied.

    “Do you think that Dana’s life is still in danger?” asked Jon.

    Matt looked at Max who nodded.

    “Maybe…that’s why we’re bringing in the expert to see if there are any other implanted thoughts,” said Matt.

    “We’ll also provide security for her,” added Max.

    “May I ask you something…and please be honest…how serious are you about solving this case?” asked Jon. “The reason I’m asking is that it’s obvious the local authorities are worthless.”

    “We take it very seriously,” said Matt. “We have a dedicated department that fights sexual slavery…and we don’t make any distinction concerning the gender of the victims.”

    Jon nodded. He could see that the agent was serious…he also detected something else, there was something personal about this to the agent.

    “When will the tests be conducted?” asked Jon.

    “As soon as our team arrives,” said Matt.

Chapter 39

    “So what do we do now?” asked the man.

    “Nothing, we just move on,” said the woman. “The plan would have worked if the mother hadn’t walked in. It was chance and there’s no way to take chance completely out of the formula. It won’t affect sales.”

    The man nodded. “Oh, we don’t have to worry about the hotel maid who planted the pills…she won’t be talking to anyone.”

    “How did you do it?” asked the woman.

    “We made it look like a botched robbery,” replied the man. “You know, we could do the same to the one who got away.”

    The woman shook her head. “No, too risky. They’ll be watching her closer now. She served her purpose…and she’s nothing to us now. However, in the future I will add a backup ‘suggestion’ just in case the first one fails.”

Chapter 40

    Ally Burns walked into the briefing. She smiled as she saw so many familiar faces; many of whom she had personally recruited to The Agency.

    David Burrell now headed the department that she had, for all practical purposes, created.

    Next to him was Donna, who ran the East Coast office for Internet sexual crimes.

    Matt Walsh was also at the meeting as he was heading the investigation concerning the new sexual slavery organization that the case had uncovered.

    She took her place at the head of the table, a seat that her mentor Robert Ledyard had occupied so many times. She smiled when she saw an unopened can of Diet Coke waiting for her. Ally looked at David who pointed at Donna.

    “Thank you,” replied Ally. “Okay, what have you found out?”

    Matt looked at David. “Your team found it, so you go first.”

    “Thanks,” replied David.

    Ally was pleased to see that the agents worked so well together.

    “We did some digging, and we found this on a secure website,” said David.

    Ally nodded and looked at the TV monitor.

    The video stated that in two weeks there would be a demonstration of a new process to transform males into feminized slaves. The commentator went on to describe how Dana would react and look.

    “The next one appeared two days after the press conference,” said David.

    Ally watched footage from the press conference. It was followed by a commentary that the processes used could be modified to produce slaves that acted exactly as requested. More importantly the process would seem so natural that the slave would accept their new programming as their natural personality. It also stated that interested parties would be contacted.

    “We believe this video was for the middlemen,” added David.

    “Excellent work as always David; please thank your team for me,” said Ally. She then turned to Matt. “What do we know about this group?”

    “We know that they are using the same mental programming techniques perfected by Dr. Liang. I doubt they know she is cooperating with us and in addition to helping us counter the techniques, she has given us a list of all persons she has trained. Currently we have four on the list in custody, two more are dead…that leaves two still out there.”

    “Is it possible that others have taught the same process?” asked David.

    “Unlikely. The process must follow a very strict regimen to work,” said Matt. “The technical details are in the report.”

    Ally nodded.

    “We also suspect that the group moved down to Mexico and is receiving both funding and protection from one of the narco-syndicates,” continued Matt.

    Ally didn’t look surprised.

    “Which one?” she asked.

    “An off-shoot of the Sinaloa group,” he replied. “This will give them easy access to the border region.”

    Ally took a sip of Diet Coke. “What about the middlemen?”

    “So far we’ve identified two in Asia, three in Europe, two in South America, and three here in the states,” replied Matt. “We already have open investigations on most of them.”

    “Anything else?”

    Matt nodded as he flipped open his notebook. “The chief of police apparently committed suicide yesterday…self inflicted gunshot wound. His bank account showed a recent deposit of $100,000. We’re looking for connections. I suspect he was on the take to obstruct any investigation of the femming cases. I guess they no longer needed him either.”

    “Was it a suicide?” asked Ally.

    “Maybe,” replied Matt. “The other interesting case is a maid from the hotel where Dana Rawlings was staying was murdered in her apartment. The police are calling it a robbery gone bad. We’re providing assistance and it looks like she may have been the one who planted the pills in Dana’s room.”

    “Good work…now what about Dana Rawlings?” asked Ally.

    “She’s currently enrolled at The Farnsworth Foundation and is undergoing treatment,” replied Matt.

    “I’m glad to hear that,” said Ally. “I know you all have full plates as it is, but The Director wants this group shut down. The fact they that they don’t seem to care that we know they exist makes them extremely dangerous.”

    Ally looked around the room and made eye contact with each agent.

    “I know that you are all taking this case seriously and will do your usual excellent job,” she stated. “Thank you for your time.”

    “Um, would it be possible to activate Max Bowie?” asked Matt. “He’s been working with me on the case and we might as well make it official.”

    Ally nodded. “I’ll take care of it.”

    “Thank you. Max really wants in on this one,” said Matt.

    Ally then stood up and left the briefing room. She wanted to stay and help, but it wasn’t her job any more. Robert had told her that not being directly involved was the most difficult part of the job and she had discovered in her short time as Assistant Director that he was right.

    She immediately went to the top floor to brief The Director.

Chapter 41

    A week later Ally drove onto the grounds of the Farnsworth Foundation.

    She was greeted by Dr. Nancy Chen who ran the therapy department.

    “It’s good to see you again, Ally,” said Nancy.

    “Thank you for letting me come up,” replied Ally.

    ‘You’re always welcome up here. You have no idea how much of a role model you are for the girls,” said Nancy.

    Ally smiled. “I’ve never seen myself as a role model before.”

    “Well, you are the Assistant Director of the Agency,” said Nancy. “It gives the girls hope that they can get on with their lives.”

    “Maybe the next trip up here I can speak to them…but today I just want to see Dana Rawlings,” stated Ally.

    “Of course, please follow me,” said Nancy.

    They walked across the foundation. It seemed more like a prestigious private school.

    “You’ve come a long way,” said Ally as she looked around. “Every time I’m up here I see a new building going up.”

    “We’re adding a new dorm for the female-to-male students,” said Nancy.

    “Do you have many here?” asked Ally.

    “A few,” replied Nancy. “Celeste doesn’t want the foundation to exclude anyone with gender issues.”

    “So where are we going?” asked Ally.

    “To the student lounge. We have conference rooms there,” said Nancy.

Chapter 42

    Ally sat down across from Dana.

    “Thank you for coming up here,” said Dana.

    Ally smiled. “It’s the least I could do. I wanted to update you on the investigation in person...and I wanted to see how you’re doing…why don’t we start with that?”

    Dana nodded. She was dressed casually in a white cotton blouse and jeans.

    “Physically I continue to change…my breasts have grown a full cup in the past two weeks. Dr. Browning suspects they’ll continue to grow for a while,” said Dana.

    “How are you adjusting to them?” asked Ally.

    “Sleeping is an issue…it takes longer to find a comfortable position,” replied Dana.

    “I know what you mean; thankfully mine grew in slower,” said Ally.

    Dana smiled back. “Mentally, I’m doing okay…I have good days…and bad ones. I’m also dealing with depression,” she admitted.

    “It takes time to recover from something so traumatic. The body heals much faster than the mind,” stated Ally. “I’m dealing with PTST from my injury.”

    Dana shook her head in disbelief. “Injury…how can you downplay it so much? I mean, I read about the attack.”

    “Which one?” asked Ally. “I guess that’s why it was so bad…being wounded in the same spot…by two psychopaths. On the plus side, I survived both attacks, Now, I’m not downplaying it Dana, but I prefer to live in the present and plan for the future. I can’t change what happened in the past…but just so you know I still replay my actions…and I wonder what I could have done differently.”

    “Thank you for sharing that with me,” said Dana. “So, does it ever fully go away?”

    “I don’t know…but the important thing is to know how to deal with it.”

    Dana nodded. “Diana said the same thing.”

    “She’s a good person, I like her a lot too,” said Ally. “So are you going to follow in her footsteps?”

    “I’d like to…I love writing,” said Dana. “Diana said that when I recover, she wants me to work with her on a book she’s writing.”

    Ally nodded. She had talked to Diana the previous week.

    “So have you found anything new about the people that did this to me?”

    “I won’t lie to you Dana. We have some leads, but we’re still in the preliminary stages of our investigation, we’re making progress, but this one will take time. I mainly wanted to tell you that we won’t rest until we catch them.”

    Ally then told her a general and unclassified summary of the investigation.

    “Is there anything else I can do to help?” asked Dana hopefully.

    Ally nodded. “Yes, you can concentrate on adjusting to your new life.”

    Dana rolled her eyes. “You sound like Diana…and my mom.”

    “Seriously Dana, you need to focus on yourself,” said Ally.

    Dana sighed. “It’s just that I want to do something…to make up for helping them.”

    “It’s not like you had a choice,” interjected Ally. “You didn’t have a choice…I’ve seen the effects of mind control several times. Several of the girls here are still dealing with the long term effects of mind control.”

    “You’re right…Nancy said that in some ways I’m lucky…apparently the people who did this to me didn’t expect for me to live…so they focused on a short term control.”

    “I know you feel bad about helping them…but by surviving and improving you will help us greatly. We have learned so much about the processes they used on you and this will help us deprogram anyone else they abuse,” stated Ally.

    Dana nodded.

    “I will stop by, every now and then and give you an update. I know that I can’t give you details of our operations, but I feel you are entitled to know what is going on,” explained Ally.

    “I appreciate that,” said Dana. She got up and looked out the window. “I do like it here…I don’t have to worry about anyone judging me.”

    “It is nice,” said Ally in agreement. “Have you made any friends?”

    Dana nodded. “There’s a girl across the hall from my room. Her name is Rachel, Rachel Greene…she sort of went through something similar to what I did.”

    “I’m glad to hear that you two are friends…she’s a nice girl.”

    Dana turned around. “You know her?”

    Ally nodded. “I’m good friends with the agent who rescued her.”

    “She told me about the shootout,” replied Dana. “Um I have a question…does The Agency have any opening for someone like me?”

    “Maybe,” replied Ally. “But I thought you wanted to be a writer.”

    “I do…but I was thinking about some way to fight people who did this to me,” she replied.

    “We’ll see,” said Ally.

    Dana smiled. “You mean after I get well, right?”

    Ally nodded.

    “That’s fair,” replied Dana. “Thank you again for everything you and your friends have done for me.”

    “You’re welcome,” replied Ally.

    They hugged before Ally departed.

Chapter 43

    A week later Ally was sitting at her desk reviewing the status reports of ongoing investigations. She missed not being directly involved in an investigation, but at least she knew what was going on.

    Matt’s report stated that they were making some progress into identifying the people who transformed Dana. His team had narrowed down the list of suspects down to a half dozen people.

    He did provide some bad news as it looked like the operation in Mexico was now fully operational. This information was received from an informant in the drug cartel that was providing security. Apparently they had abducted several teens from Mexican resorts.

    The goal of the Agency’s investigation was to obtain sufficient evidence before contacting the Mexican authorities. The Director wanted to wait on involving the Mexicans to avoid tipping off the people running the operation.

    There was also the possibility that David’s team would catch a member of the operation working in the states; they might be able to then use the person to get to the more senior people in the operation.

    There was one piece of good news; The Agency’s laboratory had discovered traces of a drug in Dana Rawlings system. It was a form of a mind control drug that had originally been developed by the Chinese. The original drug had been discontinued as it killed over seventy percent of the people it was used on. According to the lab report someone had modified the drug to not only increase it’s potency but also remove the lethal aspects. The report also stated that the drug left a very distinctive chemical trace in the human body that could be easily identified…now that they knew what to look for.  This meant that they could identify any future victims of this organization. The down side was the drug passed through the body fairly quickly. 

    Ally looked at her watch and saw that it was time for her morning meeting with The Director. She packed up her notes and grabbed a fresh can of Diet Coke before heading up to his office.

Chapter 44

    “Hey, Dana you heading down for dinner?” asked the short brown haired young woman.

    Dana looked up from her computer.

    “What time is it?” asked Rachel.

    “Almost six-thirty,” replied Rachel Greene. “Have you always been time impaired?”

    Dana laughed. “I do get lost in my writing…especially since…well you know.”

    Rachel smiled back. “Been there…done that…got the t-shirt.”

    Dana saved the work on her computer and stood up. While she had only been at the Farnsworth Foundation for a month she had become fast friends with Rachel.

    Maybe it was because they were two of the older girls there, as both had been in college at the time of their abductions and transformations. But there was more to it than that. They just connected and had hit it off from the start.

    What Dana really admired about her new friend was that Rachel was so upbeat most of the time. This was even more amazing considering what had happened to her. In addition to being transformed and sexually abused by one of her old high school teachers, Rachel had almost been killed. Dana was shocked when Rachel showed her the scars left from the bullet wounds.

    Dana found it extremely difficult to feel sorry for herself whenever she was around Rachel.

    “What were you writing about?” asked Rachel as they walked over to the dining room.

    “Nothing much,” replied Dana.

    “Bull,” replied Rachel. “You never write unless you have something important you want to record.”

    Dana looked over at her friend and smiled. “I can’t slip one past you, can I?”

    “Nope,” replied Rachel.

    “My old girlfriend called me to tell me that she started dating my old editor,” replied Dana.

    “Crap…when did she do this?” asked Rachel.

    “This afternoon…I don’t begrudge her doing it…and Richard is a great guy…but it’s just another door closing on my old life.”

    “You still love her don’t you?”

    Dana nodded. “It’s no big deal.”

    Rachel stopped and grabbed Dana’s arm. “It is a big deal.”

    Dana shrugged her shoulders and tried to smile back…but instead she began to cry.

    “It’s okay Dana…let it out,” comforted Rachel as she hugged her friend.

    “We broke up a while ago…but it still hurts,” cried Dana.

    Nancy Chen was walking across the campus green when she saw Rachel consoling Dana. She headed over to see if she could be of assistance.

    “Hi girls,” she greeted.

    Dana and Rachel turned towards her.    

    “Hi Dr. Chen,” replied Rachel.

    Dana was fumbling for a Kleenex to wipe her tears away.

    “Um, I was heading over to my cottage, would you two like to join me for dinner?” asked Nancy.

    “We’d love to,” said Rachel before Dana could speak.

    Dana looked at Rachel who nodded.

    “Okay,” replied Dana. 

    “Good, I hate eating alone,” replied Nancy.

Chapter 45

    Nancy’s cottage was one of several assigned to the fulltime staff. It was a small ivy covered brick building located in a wooded section of the facility.

    “Come on in,” said Nancy as she unlocked the front door.

    The cottage was a single level brick building. It had two bedrooms, although one had been converted into an office. It did have a sizable kitchen. There was also a deck that overlooked the stream that ran through the grounds of the foundation.

    “Do you like lasagna?” asked Nancy. “I was given a great recipe from a friend.”

    “That sounds great,” replied Dana as she looked outside at the woods.

    “Can we help with anything?” asked Rachel.

    Nancy nodded. “Can you please set the table? I made the lasagna yesterday so all I have to do is stick it in the oven.”

    “Sounds good,” replied Rachel. “Come on Dana let’s get to work.”

Chapter 46

    It wasn’t until after dinner that Dana opened up about the call from Jessica.

    “I’ve been expecting it…but it still hurts,” she said. “We actually broke up back when I was in the hospital…but I guess I hoped we might get back together.”

    “It’s never easy,” said Nancy. “But it’s even more difficult considering what you have gone through.”

    Dana nodded.

    “Tell her what else is bothering you,” interjected Rachel. “And don’t say it isn’t important.”

    Dana let out a sigh. “You’re not going to let me suffer in silence are you?”

    Rachel shook her head. “It doesn’t work…I should know.”

Dana cracked a small smile. “Dr. Chen, My parents are still getting bugged by the media over my…um…my transformation. I know that there have been attempts to contact me here too…I thought it would go away…I mean I know how the press works…but I thought this would be a story they would let go of…I guess I was wrong about that too.”

    “I know it’s not easy…and I’m sorry about it,” said Nancy. “You don’t have to worry about the press contacting you here.”

    “I know…and I appreciate that. The lawyer that Ms. Farnsworth provided my parents has been very helpful…and she has directed that all requests for contact run through her,” said Dana. “I’m just wondering if I’ll have to deal with this the rest of my life. I mean, I like it here…but eventually I want to leave and re-start my life. How do I deal with this?”

    “It won’t be easy Dana…but we’ll do our best to help you,” said Nancy.

    “The way these jerks are harassing my family…I’ve lost all desire to become a reporter,” lamented Dana.

    “Don’t give up yet,” urged Rachel.

    “I agree with Rachel…you have a great talent for writing…don’t give up on it,” agreed Nancy.

    “Maybe you can go into a different form of writing,” suggested Rachel.

    Dana nodded. “Maybe…thanks for the encouragement.”

    “Look, Dana, I know things are far from perfect right now…but you’ve made great strides in just the few weeks you’ve been here…it takes time for both your body and mind to recover,” stated Nancy.

    “You’re both right,” said Dana. “I guess that I’m so angry about what was done to me…and how I was used…and I need something to hit back.”

    “That might not be a bad idea,” said Nancy. “We’re starting a martial arts class next week…it might be a good way for you to release some of your rage.”

    “I might just do that,” said Dana.

    “Dana, every case we get here is different, but the common thread to recovery is allowing yourself to adjust to your new life. If you worry too much about what was done to you…then you are wasting precious energy. I’m not saying for you to forgive and forget…but you have a long life ahead of you, and I want you to be successful and happy,” said Nancy.

    “And don’t try to do this by yourself…I learned that the hard way too,” interjected Rachel.

    “Thanks,” replied Dana. “I really appreciate everything everyone has done for me.”

Chapter 47

    Nancy sat her computer for a while after Dana and Rachel left. She typed up her weekly status report for Celeste. Nancy found it amazing that Celeste kept up on the progress of every patient at the foundation. Celeste also kept track of the girls who graduated.

    When Nancy came to the update on Dana she hesitated. She knew what she wanted to write, but she decided that it would be better if she talked over the phone. Nancy looked at her watch and saw that it was still early enough in the evening.

    Celeste listened without commenting while Nancy updated her on Dana’s status.

    “So what do you think we should do?” asked Celeste.

    “If we could just take one of the weights off her back, it would speed up her recovery. I think that if we can help Dana adjust to the publicity surrounding her case it would greatly ease her mind,” said Nancy.

    “What do you suggest?” asked Celeste.

    “I have no idea,” said Nancy.

    “I’ll think about it…um do you mind if I share this with my friends?” asked Celeste.

    “No, I’m open to any and all suggestions,” replied Nancy. “Maybe Spirit has a good idea.”

    “I doubt that…she has little use for the media,” replied Celeste.

Chapter 48

    The next night, Celeste talked to Beth and Jirra about Dana.

    “Why doesn’t the press just leave her alone?” asked Beth.

    “It’s a juicy story…it’s also my greatest fear so I can relate to what Dana is going through,” said Jirra.

    “So does anyone have any ideas?” asked Celeste.

    Jirra suddenly snapped her fingers. “I got it!”

    “What is it?” asked Beth.

    “We can’t help Dana because we haven’t gone through this sort of thing…but what about someone who has?” stated Jirra. “I’m talking about Jen Stevens.”

    Celeste nodded. “Of course.”

    “How do we get a hold of her?” asked Beth. “I suppose Alexis knows her number.”

    Jirra reached into her bag and pulled out her cell phone. “I have her number too.”

    To her surprise, Jirra was able to get right through to Jen.

    “Jen, I’m sorry to bug you like this…but I have a big favor to ask you,” said Jirra.

    “What is it? Are you okay?” asked Jen.

    “Yes, I’m fine. Have you been following the story of Dana Rawlings?”

    Jen let out a sigh. “Yes, it was horrible what those animals did to her.”

    “She’s having trouble with the media,” stated Jirra.

    “Those are the animals I was talking about, Roo.”

    Jirra laughed. She then updated Jen on what Celeste had told them.

    “So what do you need me to do?” asked Jen.

    “I was hoping that you might have some suggestions on how Dana can deal with the media,” said Jirra.

    “I can do better than that… I can come out and talk to Dana in person. I’m shooting a few scenes for Alexis next week and Connecticut isn’t that far from Boston,” said Jen.

    “Wow…thank you,” said Jirra. “Here I’m going hand the phone to Celeste.”

Chapter 49

    Jen Stevens was picked up at JFK Airport the following week by Celeste’s chauffer Michael.

    “Ms. Farnsworth apologizes for not meeting you in person,” said Michael.

    “Business?” asked Jen.

    Michael shook his head. “Nope, term paper.”

    Jen laughed. “Thank god I don’t have to worry about those sorts of things anymore.”

    Michael nodded as he opened the door for her.

    “Please, if you don’t mind I’d rather ride up front. I really don’t care for limos all that much,” said Jen. “Also call me Jen.”

    Michael smiled. “Thank you. Oh, Ms. Farnsworth often rides up front with me.”

    The ride out to Celeste’s home took nearly two hours due to the traffic.

    Jen didn’t mind as she enjoyed talking to Michael and listening to his collection of Jazz CDs.

    “So, Michael, how do you like working for Celeste?” asked Jen.

    “I don’t consider it work,” he replied. “She’s very genuine…and one of the nicest people I’ve ever known.”

    Jen nodded.

    “When Mr. Farnsworth died we were all very worried about her…thankfully she has blossomed since his passing,” continued Michael.

    “I’m looking forward to spending some time with her.”

    “Well, we’ll be at the house in a few minutes,” he said. He picked up his phone and called to let Celeste know that they were nearly there.

Chapter 50

    Celeste greeted Jen at the front door. Spirit her mixed breed dog was sitting next to Celeste. Spirit’s tail was wagging at the thought of meeting someone new.

    “I’m glad we finally get to meet in person,” stated Celeste.

    “Yes, this sure beats a computer linkup,” replied Jen.

    Spirit pressed forward and Jen leaned down to pet her.

“And this must be the famous wonder dog, Spirit.”

    Spirit let out a playful bark then gave Jen a big wet sloppy lick on her cheek.

    “Spirit, mind your manners,” stated Celeste.

    “It’s okay,” replied Jen. “She’s beautiful and I love dogs.”

    “I should have left her down in Philly with Beth, but I really hate to be away from her,” said Celeste.

    “I can understand,” replied Jen. “I’m not in one place long enough to have a pet.”

    “Well, this isn’t quite the same sort of thing as helping Iona track someone down…it’s just as important,” replied Celeste as she led Jen through her house.

    Jen nodded. “Wow, you have a beautiful home.”

    “It’s way too large for me…but I can’t bear to part with it…Sherman loved this place,” she replied wistfully.

    “Sherman was your husband?” asked Jen.

    Celeste nodded.

    “It’s obvious that you still love him,” stated Jen.

    “I do,” replied Celeste as they walked outside to the deck. “I know it may sound strange…some people wouldn’t understand…I mean he did buy me from Margo Simon, but in doing so he also saved me, in more ways than I can describe…he also allowed me to help others.”

    They sat down at a wrought iron glass top table. Spirit circled twice and then lay down at Celeste’s feet.

    Celeste then told Jen about her past.

    “I’m very impressed,” replied Jen. “It would have been very easy for you to become a recluse…instead you have devoted your life to helping others.”

    “It seems like the right thing to do,” replied Celeste.

    Jen smiled. “Not everyone does the right thing.”

    A Hispanic woman walked out onto the deck and set a tray of drinks down on the table.

    “Do you need anything else, Ms. Farnsworth?” asked the woman cheerfully.

    “No, Ina, thank you,” replied Celeste.

    “Miss Spirit, do you want your dinner?” asked Ina.

    Spirit jumped up and followed Ina as she walked in the house. 

    “I don’t know how many times I have told Ina not to call me Ms. Farnsworth,” stated Celeste as she handed Jen a glass of lemonade.

    “How long has she been here?” asked Jen.

    “Long before I got here,” replied Celeste.

    “Just like your chauffer?”

    Celeste nodded. “Sherman hired them both.”

    “And you’ve told them to call you Celeste?”

    “More like asked…I don’t seem them as staff…more like family. They helped me so much after Sherman died.”

    “Then I would say she does it out of respect and love for you,” Jen replied.

    Celeste smiled back. 

    Jen returned the smile. She easily understood why Jirra thought so highly of Celeste.

“So tell me about Dana,” asked Jen.

Chapter 51

    Over dinner, they continued to discuss Dana’s dilemma.

    “So you can see why we thought you might be able to help her,” said Celeste.

    Jen nodded. “The press hates to let go of a juicy story. I’m glad that the press never found out about Dana’s suicide attempt.”

    “We can thank Diana Bowie,” said Celeste. “The only mention of the incident was that Dana had a bad reaction to her pain medicine.”

    “Diana has some interesting connections,” said Jen.

    “So, do you think they’ll ease off Dana?” asked Celeste.

    “I doubt it…not until there is closure, even then they may still bring it up,” replied Jen.

    “You mean it will take the capture of the people who abused her?”

    Jen nodded. “But even then there will be the trial…assuming there is one.”

    “You not implying that it would be better if the authorities kill them?”

    “Not exactly, but at least there wouldn’t be all the publicity with a trial,” said Jen.

    “So what do you suggest?”

    “I won’t know until after I talk to Dana,” said Jen. “I have to see what type of person she is. From what you told me, she used to be quite a fighter. But this whole ‘mind-control’ and being used by the monsters who transformed her seems to have really striped away her self-confidence, not that I can blame her. She has too many changes to adjust to.”

    “So when do you want to see her?”

    “Is tomorrow soon enough?” asked Jen.

    Celeste smiled. “We’ll leave first thing in the morning.”

Chapter 52

    “I hope you don’t mind that I’m driving,” said Celeste. “I don’t get to do it as much as I like. I don’t drive that much when I’m down in Philly and Michael insists on driving me whenever I’m staying up on the island.”

    They were in a silver Aura sedan.

    “I know what you mean, I usually prefer to drive myself,” said Jen. “How often do you get up to your home?”

    “I try to come up at least once a month,” replied Celeste. “Actually the estate is never empty. There are a few guest cottages on the grounds that we use for the more difficult cases. Ina and Michael assist the foundation staff.”

    “Do your neighbors mind?” asked Jen.

    “No, in fact my closest neighbor helped me set up the foundation,” replied Celeste. “She’s also the one who gave me Spirit.”

    “I’m glad to hear that,” replied Jen as she looked out the window. “It’s very beautiful up here.”

    Celeste nodded. “I know…I always thought of Connecticut as being nothing but a suburb of New York. The foundation is twenty minutes away.  It’s located on the grounds of an old private school. I was able to get a good price for the land…the buildings left much to be desired but we’ve managed to renovate many of them. I want it to be like a private college.”

    “Even with your personal wealth it must be expensive to run,” said Jen.

    “It is…but we’ve received quite a bit of help. The foundation has had several very successful fundraisers. We’ve also had funds given to us by The Agency and other law enforcement organizations.”

    “Seized funds?” asked Jen.

    Celeste nodded. “In fact we just sold two properties that provided us with the funds to put in a state of the art security system. One was a really nice brownstone in New York and the other was a farm just over the Massachusetts border.”

    “Is a security system necessary?” asked Jen.

    “Max Bowie seems to think so. So many of our girls were once abducted that he’s been worried that some group might try to take them back.”

    “Of course,” replied Jen. “I assume you have on site security too.”

    Celeste nodded. “Max recruited them for us.”

    “Max is the best,” replied Jen. “I’ve had a chance to talk to him several times up in Boston. I consider him a friend because I sure wouldn’t want to be on his enemies list.”

    “I agree,” replied Celeste. “Okay, we’re almost there. Nancy Chen will meet us and she’ll walk you over to meet Dana. When you’re done I’d like to give you the grand tour.”

    “I’d like that,” replied Jen. “So what are you going to do?”

    “I like to make the rounds,” she replied.

Chapter 53

    Nancy escorted Jen across the grounds.

    “Dana is waiting for us at the student center,” stated Nancy. “I know Celeste briefed you on her status.”

    Jen nodded. “And like me, her change is public knowledge.”

    “Exactly,” replied Nancy.

    “So what do you want me to say to her?”

    “That’s up to you,” replied Nancy. “She’s a very intelligent person…and she’s starting to accept that what happened to her wasn’t her fault…but that’s the easy part.”

    “She now has to go on with her life,” interjected Jen.

    Nancy nodded.

    “It’s rather overwhelming,” continued Jen.

    “Exactly,” replied Nancy.  “So do you know what you’re going to say?”

    Jen laughed. “Not a clue.”

Chapter 54

    Dana sat nervously in a leather armchair in the student center as she waited for Jennifer Stevens to arrive. She had been surprised…rather she had been stunned when Nancy told her that the famous actress and producer was coming to speak to her.

    “I know that she had a rather public transformation…but other than that we have nothing in common,” said Dana to Nancy the previous night.

    “Give her a chance…she has overcome a lot and maybe you can learn something from her,” said Nancy.

    “Okay,” replied Dana. “How did you get her to come out here?”

    “Celeste Farnsworth asked her,” said Nancy.

    “Just for me?” asked Dana.

    Nancy nodded. “We do whatever it takes to help others.”

    “Okay,” replied Dana.

    She looked out the window and then glanced at her watch. According to Nancy, Jennifer Stevens would be here any minute.

    Dana heard the door opening up and she turned to see Jen walk in.

    “Hi, are you Dana?” asked Jen.

    Dana nodded.

    “Pleased to meet you,” greeted Jen as she walked over towards Dana. “I’m Jen Stevens.”

    “Wow…it really is you,” stammered Dana.

    Jen laughed as they shook hands.

    Dana smiled back. “Sorry…I’m a big fan of your movies Ms. Stevens…and to be honest I’m sort of stunned that you came here just to talk to me.”

    “Please call me Jen. Dana, you have a lot of people who care about you, and they thought I might help you,” said Jen.

    Dana nodded.

    Jen and Dana sat down next to the bay window.

    “So where do we start?” asked Dana.

    Jen shrugged her shoulders. “Beats me…this is new for me too…I’ve never played a therapist before.”

    Dana laughed. 

    “Look, let’s just talk and see where it goes okay?” suggested Jen

    “I’d like that,” replied Dana. “Nancy told me that you were briefed on what was done to me.”

    Jen nodded.

    “At least they did a decent job on my looks,” continued Dana. “At least I look like a woman…and I keep changing. My breasts have grown a full cup since I arrived here…I’ve been told to expect additional changes.”

    Jen didn’t reply and she let Dana keep talking.

“But I know it wasn’t done to make my transition easier…I know that it was part of their plan… if you’re using someone to market your product. I really hate them…they killed the old me…they destroyed my old life…they took away… they took away my girlfriend…they tried to make me commit suicide! If I could, I would kill them…and I would enjoy doing it!” exclaimed Dana as she slammed the arm of her chair with her fists. Her voice was filled with rage.

    “Don’t feel you need to hold back your feelings for me,” said Jen. A slight smile was on her face. “I was mad like you after my transformation but I didn’t have anyone to be pissed at.”

    Dana smiled back. “I sort of wish that the bastards that did this to me put as much effort into the long term mental changes. Apparently the programming they used on me ended with my failed suicide attempt. Jen, it’s so confusing. I mean, I look like a woman…but I still feel like…like me. I don’t know what a woman should feel like. I know that I should think about the future…but it’s hard. I mean, technically I’m still a male…and even when I have the surgery people will still know that I used to be a male…thanks to the people that did this to me, and the media. Does do this make sense?”

    “Yes it does Dana,” replied Jen. “Let’s take this one step at a time; are you going to have SRS?”

    “SRS…oh yes, the surgery…yes I want to have it…at least I’ll be physically whole,” replied Dana. “Dr. Browning said that I should be able to…um… feel something again…if you know what I mean.”

“When do you plan on having SRS?”

    “Dr. Browning wants me to wait a year so she can see how the hormones are affecting my body,” replied Dana.

    “That’s smart,” replied Jen.

    “I suppose…but it’s not like I’m going to have to hurry…I mean who is going to want me?” asked Dana.

    “Don’t say that,” replied Jen.

    “Seriously…I still like women…they didn’t change that part of me…and unless I change my name and lie to people then they will know that I was once a guy.”

    “So?” asked Jen. “Don’t sell the whole world short just because there are some closed minded people.”

    “Do you think that another woman would want me?”

    “Yes,” replied Jen. “I have someone that’s very special to me. Yes, he knows all about who and what I used to be. It just doesn’t make any difference in our relationship.”

    “But what if I do find someone and the press finds out?”

    “I think after a while they will lose interest in you, especially if you go into a field away from the spotlight.”

    “I wanted to be a reporter, but after seeing the feeding frenzy around me…I have lost the taste for it,” admitted Dana. “They tried several times to sneak in here…one even pretended to be my mom!”

    “So go into another form of writing,” suggested Jen. “I read some of your work…you have a talent.”

    “You read my stuff?”

    Jen nodded. “I read your articles on the femming at your college. They were sent to me by Celeste Farnsworth. You obviously have a passion for writing…so why not look for another form?  When you’re ready…and recovered I could put you in touch with some friends.”

    “Doing what?” asked Dana.

    “My production company is always looking for good writers.”

    “I don’t have any experience in that sort of thing…and no offense; I don’t want a charity job.”

    A frown crossed Jen’s face. “I won’t ever give someone a charity job, Dana. I do however give opportunities to people deserving of them. From what I’ve seen so far your writing is very good and you deserve the opportunity to prove yourself. If you worked for me you’ll work hard to earn every penny of what you’ll be paid. That way we can both be proud.”

    “Proud? Of what?”

    “You can be proud that your writing talents are growing and I can be proud that I’ve helped a budding writer get back on her feet again.”

    Dana nodded. “I like the sound of that.”

    “I will have someone contact you and provide you with some materials for you to study.”

    “Thanks…so how do you deal with the media? I mean you sort of picked a career that put you head to head with them.”

    “The career sort of picked me I think. That’s a long story that I’ll bore you with at another time. Like you, for a time before my own transformation, I was the media too. I used to write a weekly column for a newspaper on technology and for about a year I did a weekly talk show on radio on the same topic. Back then I had a rather unique voice so I was quite frequently recognized wherever I went and started to talk. I sort of got used to it.”

    “Sounds familiar. I used to get lots of comments on the articles I wrote too. In a way I always enjoyed hearing back from people about what I wrote. Even when the comments were bad I always enjoyed the fact that I got people thinking about an issue.”

    “Then came my transformation and someone at the hospital leaked the photos of my change. When I finally woke up I was given two choices. First was an offer to announce that I’d died from side effects from my transformation. I’d be given a completely new identity and would have to give up any future contact with friends and my remaining family. Everything I had ever had, everything I previously was would be simply wiped out with my so-called death. I could quietly fade into the background but it meant giving up everything else.”

    “That stinks, Jen.”

    “You know that those were my thoughts exactly when they told me, Dana. Of course I picked the other option, to meet the challenge head-on and go on with my life. I’m glad to say that I made the right choice. I never would have experienced so much and have the life I have now if I’d given up and taken the easy way out back then.”

    “I’ve kind of made that decision already, Jen.”

    “Yes but it wasn’t of your own choice. They programmed you to do that. I suspect though that you might have done it anyway if you’d had the choice.”

    “Really? Why, Jen?”

    “I think we both share something of an independent streak. I strongly feel that you weren’t gonna let the bastards get away with it. I could sense your independent streak in your writing, Dana. You weren’t going to give up despite the threats against you no matter what happened. That was a part of you before your transformation and will always be a part of you. Now that their programming is over nothing can change that.”

    “I think you might be right there. Even if they hadn’t programmed me to act that way I probably would have done it anyway, maybe not the way I did it though.”

    “What’s done is done and neither of us can change that. All either of us can do is go on with our lives and that’s my secret method of taking care of the media, Dana.”

    “I think I see where you’re going with this, Jen. It’s my life and I shouldn’t let the media control it. I should do what I need to do and to hell with the media?”

    “Yup, that’s pretty much how I look at it. I decided back then to just move on with things and lead as normal a life as I could. The media will cover you and in most cases will present the news in a fair and honest manner. The tabloids will almost always sensationalize the news to sell their rags. The juicier the things they make up about you the more they sell. As an example they recently ran a story that Adam Tilton and I were back together and I was expecting twins. Imagine that, a former man giving birth to twins! They must have sold tens of thousands of copies of that trash.”

    “I saw that. So you’re not pregnant?”

    “Nope, not yet anyway. They took the fact that Adam and I were seeing each other again and blew it all out of proportion. I should have started another lawsuit against them but I didn’t want to add any speculation to their story. My personal life is just that, personal not public.”

    “Altering the facts for a story is something as a journalist that I’d never thought about doing.”

    “That’s because you have the integrity to report the facts as they are, not how you think they should be to sell the greatest number of newspapers. As I said before, that’s a part of who you are.”

    “You’ve sued the media before?”

    “Twice so far, Dana. There are a couple of children’s wings at hospitals from the monetary awards I’ve donated. The law firm I use, Dewey, Cheatem, and Howe, is very good at those kind of cases.”

    Dana laughed. “That’s an old Three Stooges gag!”

    “Hey, when you borrow, borrow from the best.”

    “So just what should I do about the media anyway?”

    “That’s it, Dana. While I can tell you what worked for me, our situations are different enough that you’re going to have to find your own balance. For me, I decided early on that I was going to adapt as quickly as I could and simply bore everyone to death by going back to a reasonably normal life so the press would leave me alone. It worked for a while until a series of events happened.”

    “I remember reading about a few of them.”

    “I even went back to my regular job for a while. It took months but things eventually got quiet and the regular press started to leave me alone. Even the tabloids eventually backed off when there just wasn’t anything they could twist out of proportion. There’s just not a lot to cover when you’re living as normal a life as possible, Dana.”

    “Do you think that would work for me, Jen?”

    “Possibly but my change didn’t have an element of crime built into it like yours does. Until they find and arrest whoever did this to you, the press is going to focus on you since you’re the only one that’s visible to them. Eventually, if things stretch out long enough, the press and the public in general will get tired of the story and the press will go away. Things are going to get hot again when they do catch the people responsible for this and they’ll stay hot through the trial. Just remember that most people are busy with their own lives and sooner or later they’ll get tired of hearing about you then the press will move on to other stories.”

    They talked for hours and would have talked for several more when they were interrupted by the rumbling of Dana’s stomach.

    “Sorry,” apologized Dana sheepishly.    

    “It’s okay, I was having a good time talking with you and I didn’t realize that it was getting that close to lunch,” replied Jen. “Okay, is there somewhere we can go to get something to eat? If we go out I’m buying. Can you handle a trip out or would you prefer to eat here?”

    “I think I can handle a trip out… but the food here is excellent. It’s almost like a four star restaurant.”

    “Okay, lead the way unless you want to take a few minutes to freshen up. I do need to use the facilities myself though.”

Chapter 55

    A few minutes later Jen and Dana joined the long line at the dining hall. Rachel was standing in line just ahead of them and Dana introduced her to Jen.

    “Rachel and I are the only two currently here who are in college,” stated Dana. “She’s currently the class leader.”

    “What does that mean?” asked Jen.

    “A lot of headaches,” laughed Rachel. “Actually it’s a lot of fun. I’m sort of the big sister here. Nancy gives a lot of us responsibility as we heal…it really does help.”

    Jen nodded.

    “What’s for lunch today, Rachel?” asked Dana as she strained to look at the serving area.

    “It’s Mexican,” replied Rachel. “Our chef just got back from that spa in New Mexico and she has a bunch of new recipes to try.”

    “New Mexico? Was it the Caldera de Gaia Spa?” asked Jen.

    “I think so,” replied Rachel. “It’s the one near that new Anasazi site.”

    “It smells delicious,” stated Dana.

    “If they got the recipes from there then it will taste ever better,” stated Jen. “Ooo it looks like they have Hannah’s chili!”

Jen looked around a bit then waved to Celeste and Nancy as they sat at one of the tables with a couple of the other staff members.

“So, does the staff always eat in here?” asked Jen.

Rachel nodded. “Ms. Farnsworth insists on them having at least one meal a day in here with us. Actually most of the staff eats several meals a day here. It makes it feel like a big family.”

After getting their food they sat down at one of the tables. They weren’t alone for long as many of the other girls joined them.

“I hope you don’t mind,” whispered Dana to Jen.

Jen smiled back. “I don’t mind.”

Rachel introduced Jen to the girls at the table. They were a bit shy at first, but Jen quickly broke the ice and in no time at all she had everyone laughing like maniacs with her tales of the various things that she’d been through filming several of her movies and her life after her transformation. Pretty soon there was a large crowd around the table as more and more of the girls squeezed in to join the fun.

Over at the staff table, the conversation had turned to the events at Jen’s table.

    “Nancy, do my eyes deceive me or is Susan actually talking?” asked Celeste, referring to one of the students at Jen’s table.

    Celeste prided herself on knowing all the girls at the foundation.

    “You’re right, Celeste. That’s Susan Jefferson all right and she’s laughing like everyone else too!”

    “She’s been laughing so hard that she’s crying. I think she even asked Jen a question or two,” noted Celeste with a smile. “I’ve got to talk with Jen and let her know that her visit has done a lot more than help Dana. “

    Nancy was smiling. “I’d love to have Jen back here occasionally too. Her success lets the rest of the girls have some hope that things are going to work out for them too.”

    Back over at Jen’s table the fun continued.

    Rachel looked up at the clock and stood up. “I hate to be the wet blanket, but it’s time to get back to your classes.”

    Jen looked more disappointed than the students.

    “You’ve been a great audience and I’m sorry that I can’t take you all with me. I’d like to pay another visit… if that’s all right with everyone?” asked Jen.

    Her offer was met with applause.    

     Even the non-talkative girls seemed to be in better sprits after hearing of Jen’s antics.

    Dana and Jen then headed back to the student center to continue their conversation.

Chapter 56

    When Jen was finished, Dana walked her over to meet with Celeste and Nancy.

    Dana gave her a big hug before leaving.

“Jen, thanks for coming down today. I think you made more of a difference here than you know,” stated Celeste.

    “I know that I helped Dana because she told me so. Did I do something else?”

    “What you did in the dining hall today. Do you know how much you’ve helped us?”

    “Oh, that. I do that wherever I go. I love talking with people and you’ve got a great bunch of people around here. It’s nothing special, Celeste,” said Jen.

    “You know the girl with the black hair with purple streaks in it?” asked Nancy.

    “Yes, the one that was laughing the loudest and asking the questions?”

    “That’s the one. She was one of Margo Simon’s last victims. She was rescued from a brothel in Japan six months ago. She’s said only a single word since she came here,” explained Nancy.

    “Margo Simon? The wicked bitch of east? That Margo Simon?” stated Jen.

    “That’s the one, Jen. The only word she said was when she was told that Margo was dead. The word was ‘good’ and she hasn’t said anything else since then. What kind of magic did you use?” asked Celeste.

    “Damned if I know, Celeste. I must have gotten lucky I guess.”

    “Whatever happened, you’ve got a standing invitation any time you want to visit. All I ask is that you spend some time talking to the girls when you can.”

    “I’d be honored, Celeste. I had a great time today talking to Dana and everyone else. In fact, I’d like to serve as a mentor of sorts to Dana if it’s okay with her and your staff.”

    “I saw how well both of you got along at lunch, I don’t see a problem with it and I suspect that Dana would be fine with it too,” said Nancy.

    “I’ll tell her before I go. Now you said something about getting the grand tour I believe? I’ve got my own jet but I gave the pilots the night off so I’m available for the evening.”

    “I think I have a plan, Jen. How about you come with me and I’ll give you that tour. Then you’ll be a guest at my home until your flight is ready tomorrow.”

    “I’d like that. By the way, I loved the food you had for lunch. But how did you ever get Hannah to give you her recipe for chili?” asked Jen.

    Celeste smiled back. “It was a good trade; we give her interns an opportunity to work here and she gives us the recipes.”

    “I think you’re getting the better part of that deal,” replied Jen.

     “Oh, since we won’t get back at the house until late, why don’t I take you out to dinner and that way we can give Ina the night off,” suggested Celeste.

    “What do you have in mind?” asked Jen.

    “How about I take you someplace for a surf and turf supper? The place I have in mind also makes a great chocolate cheesecake,” said Celeste.

    “Anything with chocolate in it has my complete attention, Celeste. It sounds like we have a plan all worked out. Besides, after today I really want to talk with you about doing a benefit for the foundation.”

    “I’d like that a lot, Jen. One grand tour coming right up!”

Chapter 57

    Before they left Jen met with Dana. They met at the student center and walked slowly together across the foundation grounds to the front entrance.

    “So how did I do, Dana?” asked Jen.

    “You play a pretty good therapist in real life…at least you gave me some good suggestions on  how to handle the media circus that I’ll have to deal with…and will continue to deal with,” replied Dana.

    “I wish I could tell you that it will all work out,” said Jen.

    Dana nodded. “While I know I’ve got a lot to work on I’m more confident that I’ll be able to get through this, Jen. I really do appreciate you taking the time to come and talk with me. I can finally see a bit of light at the end of the tunnel and I know now that it isn’t a train with my name on it.”

    “I and a lot of other people see the potential in you. All you need to do is see that potential yourself. Just remember that while we can’t go back and undo anything we’ve already done, there’s a whole world of possibilities in front of you. As for the media, there are things you’ll talk about and things that are totally off limits when you do decide to deal with them. It isn’t optional either, Dana. Sooner or later you’re going the have to face them. Take it from me that it’s much better to do it on your own terms rather than theirs. Don’t be afraid to tell them when they’ve gone too far. Otherwise we’ll point Dewey, Cheatem, and Howe at them.”

    Jen pressed a small card into Dana’s hand before giving her a big hug which Dana gratefully returned.

Dana then looked at the card. It contained Jen’s private cell phone number and email address on it.

    “Celeste also has that information if you need to reach me. Just don’t pass it around, okay?”

    “I promise, Jen,” replied Dana as she placed the card into her bag.

    “And just remember that if you do eventually decide to do an interview please call me first. I can set something up for you with someone that won’t try to sensationalize things. There are reporters out there you can trust. I’ve met quite a few of them. In fact, I consider you one of them, Dana. My offer of a chance to prove yourself as a writer stands if you want to pursue it as a career.”

    “I’ll keep that in mind, Jen. Bye!”

    Dana waved as Jen slipped into the front seat of Celeste’s car then watched it glide down the driveway into the late afternoon shadows.

    As they drove away, Jen turned to Celeste.

“That may have been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done in a long time.”

    “I know what you mean…I always feel rejuvenated when I’m there,” replied Celeste.

    “I know you’ve probably heard this before, but it’s really wonderful that you’ve set this up…I cringe when I think where some of those kids might be without you,” said Jen.

    “Thank you,” replied Celeste.

Chapter 58

    Even though she was kept extremely busy with all her duties, Ally still managed to slip in the occasional visit to her old department.

    By now her visits were common enough that the agents paid her little attention. Ally watched them at work and smiled. Granted there were few agents left from when she had run the department, she still took personal pride in their performance. What pleased her most was that they hadn’t been content to keep things status quo; many changes had taken place as new techniques to track and trap online predators.

    Ally glanced at the “wall of shame” of the captured predators and smiled. Still she knew that that even though there had been many victories the war was far from won. For even when someone like Margo Simon was put out of action there was a new person to take his or her place.

    She then looked to her right and saw the memorial wall. In addition to the photo of Joe, an agent killed the previous year in the line of duty; there were the names of the teens killed by sexual predators and traffickers. The names were a constant reminder of the importance of the job.

    Donna had added a third scoreboard. This one listed the number of teens recovered due to the department’s operations.

    David stepped out of Donna’s office and walked over to Ally.

    “Good afternoon, David,” she greeted.

    “Excuse me…Agent Burns, but I need to speak to you in private,” he stated softly.

    Ally knew that it had to be important because he used her title.

    She picked up her bag as she stood up. “Where do you want to talk?”

    He pointed to Donna’s office.

    Ally nodded and she followed him inside. He closed the door behind him.

    “Sorry for being so formal…but we may have something on the Rawlings’ case,” he stated.

    “What is it David?” asked Ally.

    He rubbed his chin. “It’s nothing solid…more of a hunch…but we acted on much less when you were in charge here,” he stated as he motioned to Donna.

    “Ally, we were ‘fishing’ in one of the chat rooms that cater to sexual slavery and we saw this,” she said as she handed Ally a transcript.

    Ally read the printout. It made references to the videos of Dana.

    “Okay, what else?” asked Ally.

    They had seen hundreds of comments about Dana over the past weeks confirming that the whole press conference was basically an advertisement. 

    “Note the name highlighted,” said Donna as she handed Ally second printout.

    Ally read it and saw what Donna was referring to.

    “How serious do you think this person is?” asked Ally.

    “It’s hard to say, they might just be playing some sick game…but we made contact with them and they gave us a website. We had to pay to get on it…and it wasn’t cheap…and we had to pass some pretty serious identity checks, but it was worth it,” explained Donna.

    “Go on,” said Ally.

    “They offer sex tourism vacations to both Asia and Latin America. They also implied that for the right price they can provide slaves,” interjected David

    Ally nodded. “What else?”

 “We’re still tracking down the server, but we suspect it’s either in Mexico or Central America. We’ve been making regular appearances in the room and have seen many references to a custom sex slave service…including transgendered teens,” added David.

    “Any ties to the group that abducted Dana Rawlings?” asked Ally.

    “Nothing solid….some veiled references…but my gut tells me we’re on the right track,” said David.

    Ally nodded. “I know the feeling. This sort of operation will require more than just online playacting…we would have to set up an undercover operation.”

    “My thoughts exactly,” concurred David.

    “I’ll need a full report…with the latest printouts,” said Ally.

    David nodded at Donna who handed Ally a thick file.

    Ally barely contained her grin. “I guess you learned something from your old boss.”

    “Yes, Mom,” replied David and Donna in unison.

    Ally laughed. “It’s been a long time since I was called that…it brings back some pleasant memories.”

    The two agents smiled back.

    “Continue to monitor this site. Which profile are you using in there?” asked Ally.

    “We’re using one of our businessmen models. If they run a trace they’ll track him down to a laptop that’s running on a wireless network and that he only goes online when he’s on a business trip. We’ve also dropped the hints that he’s both very wealthy and extremely twisted,” said Donna.

    “Good, but keep it vague until we get full approval; we’ll have to model it after a real person,” said Ally. “Good work.”

    “Thanks Ally,” replied David.

Chapter 59

    During her daily brief with The Director Ally brought up what David and Donna had discovered.

    “We don’t have any solid evidence that this is tied to the group that abducted Dana Rawlings, but it fits the profile. However, even if it isn’t, it’s definitely a group that we should shut down,” stated Ally.

    The Director nodded as he sipped his coffee out of his well-worn mug.

    “What do you think?” he asked.

    “I think it’s worth the effort,” she replied.

    “I agree. Have the LA office take charge of the undercover operation,” he stated. “Of course David’s team will support them.”

    Ally nodded.

    “Anything else?” he asked.

    “I’d like permission to meet with the news director of the network that has been harassing Dana Rawlings and her family,” she stated.

    “Why? What has changed?” asked The Director.

    “The foundation’s security caught one of their reporters trying to sneak onto the grounds last night. If there continues to be a media spotlight on Dana then the group may feel it necessary to eliminate her. A group like this wants to control its own publicity. I would also like them to think that they are safe,” she explained.

    “And it would make Dana’s life easier,” added The Director. “I’m not immune to the human side of our cases. So what will you offer in exchange for the network to back off?”

    “I was thinking of giving them initial coverage of the corruption case in DC,” she replied.

    The Agency was about to make a series of arrests in a political corruption case in DC involving lobbyists.

    He nodded. “Sounds like a fair trade-off. When do you want to meet with him?”

    “Tomorrow,” replied Ally.

    “Let me know how it goes,” he replied as he took another sip of his coffee.

Chapter 60

    Ally’s meeting with Harrison Keller occurred the follow afternoon.

    They met at a local restaurant known as a neutral spot for meetings between the media and various government agencies. There was an unwritten rule that conferences held there weren’t discussed publicly.

    Harrison Keller had been the network’s news director for three years and was known for his bulldog tenacity when it came to sticking to a story. All of the other news outlets had lost interest in Dana Rawlings, but Harrison refused to let go.

Ally had to admit that he was a handsome man. His tailored suit looked as if it was painted on his fit body. The only sign that he was in his late fifties were some streaks of gray in his hair.

“Thank you for meeting with me,” stated Ally as they shook hands.

“It was my pleasure…and I had to admit that I was curious why the youngest Assistant Director in the history of The Agency wanted to talk with me,” replied Harrison.

“It concerns your coverage of Dana Rawlings,” said Ally. She hated beating around the bush and wanted to get straight to the point.

“The public has a right to know more about her,” he replied as he scanned the menu.

“You really don’t believe that do you?” countered Ally.

Harrison laughed. “I heard you were blunt…I like that. No, I don’t believe that…but it’s a good story…and it’s been a slow news month. Why does The Agency care about this case?”

“Your coverage could cause interference with an investigation,” she replied.

He nodded. “Typical Agency BS answer.”

The waitress walked over and took their order. Harrison ordered the BLT and a lager and Ally ordered the Cobb salad and a Diet Coke. As soon as the waitress left they continued their conversation.

“Your coverage is also affecting Dana’s recovery,” continued Ally. “She’s the victim in all this… and your coverage is treating her as if she’s a suspect.”

Harrison shrugged. “Don’t get me wrong, I feel for the kid…but I have a job and it’s a slow news period.”

“Maybe not for much longer,” replied Ally as she took a sip of water. “I propose a trade…you agree to leave Dana alone and I will give you head of the line in what could be a very juicy media feeding frenzy…a story that will have very long legs…and have a greater impact than just one lone abused young woman.”

Harrison cocked his head. “What’re you talking about…I haven’t heard of anything coming down the line.”

“You wouldn’t…but you could be first.”

He stared at her face as if to see he could pick up some hint that she was bluffing.

“Hmmm, do you play poker?” he asked.

Ally shook her head. “I got tired of winning all the time.”

Harrison cracked a smile. “You’re good…okay…hypothetically speaking how soon would this story break?”

“Soon,” she replied.

“And what do you want in return?”

“Leave Dana Rawlings alone…and leave her parents and friends alone…drop the story,” she stated.

“Do want this agreement in writing?” he asked.

Ally shook her head. “No, a handshake is sufficient…because I know that if you break your word you will never get another story from us...ever. That’s not a threat; it’s a promise.”

Harrison leaned back in his chair and broke out in a hearty laugh. “I like you Ally…you don’t mess around…I agree to your offer. And you can trust me as I like the idea of working with you in the future.”

He extended his hand and Ally shook it.

“You’ll get a call from us in the next forty-eight hours,” she said.

“Okay,” he replied.

“So I don’t have to worry about your news team trying to sneak on the grounds of the foundation, right?”

Harrison cocked his head. “We pulled our team off there last week.”

“A reporter from your network was caught by the foundation’s security yesterday.”

Harrison looked concerned. “I have no idea what you talking about. We pulled out of there last week as it was a waste of time.”

“He showed press credentials from your network,” stated Ally.

Harrison pulled out his phone and placed a call.

“Mark, do we still have a team up in Connecticut covering the Rawlings’ case?” he asked. “Are you sure...  what about local affiliates...okay, thank you.”

He slipped his phone back in his coat pocket.

“It wasn’t us,” replied Harrison. He let out a long breath. “Assuming that you’re right about the identification…that means someone is pretending to be from my network…I don’t like that.”

Ally sensed that he was telling the truth.

“Are you sure that they used credentials for my network?” he asked as he leaned closer.

Ally nodded.

“Maybe the security cop was mistaken,” he said.

“Highly unlikely,” she replied.

Harrison rubbed his chin. He suspected her answer meant that the security was most likely a retired agent. He didn’t bother asking her this as he knew she wouldn’t tell him.

“I see,” he replied. “I know that many people feel that we don’t have any integrity…but we do and I don’t like the fact that someone is pretending to be us….what can I do to help?”

“Keep this quiet for now,” replied Ally.

“Do I get head of the line privileges for this one too?”

“Maybe…but it may not payoff for a while,” she replied.

“It will be worth the wait. Consider us a friend in this case…if you need anything let me know,” he stated firmly.

Ally could see that he was serious.

“Thank you,” she replied.

“You’re welcome. You know Ally; I’ve wanted to meet you for a while. I liked how you caught the MNF killer…and then there was the Margo Simon case…that was even more impressive.”

“I was just doing my job,” she replied.

He smiled as he realized that he could be making a great contact; the new Assistant Director of the Agency. There were rumors that she could be in line to eventually become the Director. A single story wasn’t worth ruining this potential connection.

“You have my word that we will drop the Dana Rawlings story.”

“I will hold you to that promise,” replied Ally.

Chapter 61

Max Bowie sat across from Sam Murphy in the Farnsworth Foundation’s security office. Sam was one of the several retired agents that had been hired by the foundation on Max’s recommendation.

Sam was in his late sixties, but he looked much younger. Prior to serving as an agent he had been in the Special Forces. He had taken the job following the death of his wife the previous year.

“So tell me about the other night,” said Max as he sipped his coffee.

“The motion detectors went off on the west side and our roving patrol caught the two trespassers. They were brought up and here and we checked their ID,” said Sam. “They either were unaware that we have motion-detectors or they were checking out our reaction…I suspect the later. But we followed your orders and after checking their ID we let them go with a warning.”

“What about the video and their prints?” asked Max.

Sam handed Max a black nylon bag. “The CD has everything on it. There are also photos of their IDs. If they weren’t real they were a first class forgery.”

Max nodded.

“So what happens now?” asked Sam. “You don’t think those two were with the media any more than I do.”

“You’re right…but I need you to play this down for now. I want whoever it was to think that they got away with it.”

“Okay…what else?”

“We’ll be upgrading the security system as we talked about,” said Max.

“You mean they’re going to do all the upgrades you recommended?” asked Sam. “It won’t be cheap.”

Max nodded.

Sam let out a long slow whistle.

Max smiled. “Exactly. The new Assistant Director wants to keep this low key.”

“So why does she have an old pirate like you working for her?” asked Sam.

“She’s smart enough to know when she needs an old pirate,” replied Max.

“What’s she like? Is she any good?” asked Sam.

“Robert Ledyard personally recommended her as his replacement,” replied Max.

Sam nodded knowingly. “That says it all.”

Max nodded in agreement.

Chapter 62

Ally briefed The Director on the incident at the Farnsworth Foundation.

“We’re still trying to identify the man portraying the reporter but we have identified the cameraman…he’s Shawn McGwire. Born in Belfast, cut his teeth in the IRA and when the fighting ended there he became a mercenary. He works strictly for the highest bidder and has worked for several international criminal organizations. His particular expertise is surveillance and security systems,” stated Ally as she paged through her report. “There are currently six warrants out for his arrest…none in the US. As far as we can tell this is the first time he has worked in this country.”

“I suspect that the ‘reporter’ was a front…probably has no record…and probably no pulse right now,” stated The Director.

Ally nodded in agreement. “It fits McGwire’s profile. The foundation is quietly upgrading their security systems.”

The Director leaned back in his chair.

“How soon will the undercover operation start?” he asked.

“They’re hoping to start ‘Operation Moray’ this weekend,” replied Ally. “And for the record I officially hate the name…but it was the first one the computer spit out.”

The Director almost smiled.

“What about Harrison Keller?” asked The Director.

“He’s smooth…but I think we can work with him. I think he suspects that he can have an inside connection to The Agency by cooperating with me. The good news is that there haven’t been any new stories on the Dana Rawlings case.”

“Do you think he trusts you?”

“No more than I trust him,” replied Ally.

Ally’s remark did cause The Director to smile ever so slightly.

Chapter 63

    On Saturday Carol and Ally were in their kitchen as they prepared dinner. Their best friends, Steve and Maggie Williams would be arriving soon.

    “I’ve really been looking forward to this,” stated Ally as she inspected a bottle of wine. She slipped it back in the wine rack and selected a different one.

    “Job getting to you?” asked Carol as she checked on the chicken cooking in the oven.

    Their cat Bogie watched their actions from the doorway; just in case some food happened to fall on the floor.

    “I love the job…but the hours the getting to be a pain,” stated Ally.

    “You put in just as many hours…if not more when you ran your department,” stated Carol. “What’s really bothering you?”

    Ally shrugged. “I’m wondering if we are making a difference. I mean, we take out Margo Simon and another group takes her place. It’s like playing scumbag ‘whack-a-mole.’ I know we’re doing good, but it never ends.”

    “Tell it to me…we’ve seen a huge rise in bank robberies in the past year. Still, it’s our job…and we both love it…warts and all,” stated Carol.

    Ally nodded.

    “Ally, you’re doing a great job as the Assistant Director. You even got the media to back down from the Dana Rawlings story,” she continued.

    “I gave them the DC corruption story,” said Ally.

    “That should keep them busy for a while,” replied Carol.

    “I really hate the political side to my new job,” stated Ally.

    Carol laughed. “No you don’t.”

    Ally smiled. “Okay…some of it is pretty cool.”

    “Like briefing the President?”

    Ally nodded.

    “See, it’s not all bad.”

    Their conversation was interrupted by their doorbell. Bogie lept up and ran to the front door, hoping it would lead to an escape opportunity.

    “I’ll get it,” said Ally. She walked to the front door and looked through the peep hole. Seeing it was Steve and Maggie, she scooped up Bogie and opened the door.

    “Please come in,” stated Ally.

    “I see the beast still tries to get out,” stated Steve.

    “Bogie is consistent,” said Ally.

    Once Maggie and Steve were inside, Ally let Bogie go and she gave her friends a hug.

    “Carol’s in the kitchen,” said Ally.

    “Of course,” replied Maggie with a smile.

    Even though Carol and Ally had a dining room, they never used it when Maggie and Steve came over.

    Carol greeted Steve and Maggie and then went back to checking on the dinner.

    “Steve, I have a bottle of wine ready…would you please open it?” asked Ally.

    Steve nodded. “Your shoulder giving you problems?”

    Ally nodded. “I’ve been doing too much pencil pushing.”

    “Nonsense,” said Maggie. “You’re doing a great job.”

    “I still don’t feel comfortable yet…I mean, Robert virtually created the job,” said Ally as she sat down.

    “Don’t try to be Robert,” said Maggie.

    Ally nodded.

    “So, Maggie, how does it feel to be back to work full time?” asked Carol.

    Maggie had taken time off following the birth of their son.

    “I love it, but I can’t believe how much has changed,” she replied. “I also have to get used to a new job too.”

    Maggie had been in the same department as Steve, Special Operations before she had left on maturity leave.  She was now working in the counter-terrorism department.

    “That should be fun,” said Carol.

    “Almost as much fun as armed robbery,” replied Maggie as she referred to Carol’s department.

    Steve opened the wine and poured everyone a glass.

    “I have dibs on the first toast,” he said.

    “What is it?” asked Ally.

    “Beth made her first solo flight today,” he replied.

    “Wow,” replied Ally. “Did you watch?”

    “Steve went there, I was too nervous,” said Maggie. “I can’t believe how fast she has grown up.”

    “She says that it’s a little easier the second time around,” said Steve as he held up his glass.

Chapter 64

    It was after dinner and they were sitting in the living room having dessert.

    Carol was just about to get up and refill their coffee cups when everyone’s cell phone went off.

    Ally reached her phone first and saw the call was coming in from The Agency.

    “It’s work,” she said as she answered her phone.

    The others nodded and Ally knew something big was up.

    All four were being called in on the same case.  There had been a botched armed robbery attempt at a federal depository bank. Three security guards had been killed as had four of the robbers. Two of the surviving robbers had taken hostages and were surrounded by police.

    They all drove to the scene together.  Along the way they were briefed via their secure cell phones.

    Steve’s Spec-Ops team was already on the scene preparing to rescue the hostages. Carol was brought in as it was an armed robbery. Maggie was contacted as it was suspected that the group had ties to terrorists groups. Ally was being requested to coordinate all operations.

    Ally talked to the agent on the scene and asked why he suspected that it was terrorism.

    “It was like a military strike. They were all wearing body armor and were using semi-automatic weapons. They used flash-bang grenades to start the attack,” he stated. “The only mistake they made was that the security guards were conducting training tonight. They had twice as many guards at the site when the attack occurred. They were initially caught off guard, but they made a quick recovery.”

    “Have the suspects made any demands?” asked Ally.

    “No,” replied the agent. We have the building surrounded and there’s no way they can escape. We’ve neutralized their escape vehicles too.”

    “Okay, thank you, we’ll be there shortly,” replied Ally.

Chapter 65

    The hardest part of being in charge was letting her agents do their jobs. Ally was forced to stick to the command center.

    “We have determined that the suspects and the three hostages are on the second floor,” stated Steve as he pointed to the computer screen that showed the layout of the building. He was now dressed in his tactical uniform. “We’ve tried to call using the landline phone, but they have refused to answer it. There’s something else…the suspects are standing still…we’ve picked them up on infrared. I could have them taken out real easy if you order it.”

    “Do you think they have the place wired?” asked Ally.

    “We haven’t detected anything,” replied Steve.

    “Try to contact them again,” said Ally.

    “You’re no fun anymore,” replied Steve softly so that only Ally could hear him.

    Ally had to stifle her smile.

    As Steve departed to try and contact the suspects Carol came in the command center.

    “We’ve identified two of the dead, both have long rap sheets for robbery,” she said.

    “What about the third one?” asked Ally.

    “We’re still waiting. Whoever it is he doesn’t have a record; his prints came up clean.”

    Ally nodded. “What else do we know about the first two?”

    “My turn,” interjected Maggie. “They both have ties to white supremacy groups. They belong to a group we’ve been tracking for a while. They have been tied to many violent crimes ranging from arson to bank robbery.”

    “Still it’s a big jump up to trying to rob a federal depository,” said Ally.

    “We suspect that they have done many of their criminal acts for hire,” said Maggie.

    “So they might have done this for someone else?” asked Carol.

    Maggie nodded.

    “Who do they work for?” asked Carol.

    “They aren’t picky. From what we’ve learned the group that hires them does the actual planning. In some cases it’s likely that the hit teams don’t even know who they are working for. They do it strictly for the money,” explained Maggie.

    “We need to take at least one of the two remaining suspects alive,” stated Ally. “Of course the safety of the hostages comes first.”

    Steve reentered the command center. “Okay, we’re going to try this again. We have listening devices attached to the walls so we should be able to hear them.”

    Ally then told Steve what they had learned about the dead suspects.

    “If we have to shoot, I’ll tell my team to aim low,” said Steve. “Okay, try and contact them again.”

    Before the agent could dial the number everyone in the command center heard a cell phone ring.

    The heard one of the suspects answer the phone and then they heard a woman’s voice.

    “Listen closely…the game is over…time to go home.”

    Ally looked at Steve. “What does that mean?”

    Before he could reply they heard the sound of gunfire.

Chapter 66

    “So they shot themselves?” asked Ally.

    “The hostages said that as soon as the suspects heard the phone messages their eyes glazed over and without a word they shot themselves in the head,” said Steve.

    “Interview the hostages and get as much out of them as possible,” said Ally. “Also I want to keep this quiet for now…no leaks to the press.”

    “We’ll transport the hostages to Bethesda,” said Steve. “We should be able to keep this from reaching the press for a few days.”

    “Thank you,” replied Ally. “I want to know who the others are.”

    “We’re running their prints as we speak,” said Maggie.

    “What about the other one?” asked Ally.

    “It’s coming in now,” said Maggie. “Damn!”

    “What is it?” asked Ally.

    “We got a hit on the prints…no criminal record… the dead suspect is ex-special forces.”

    “Get me everything you can on him…and the others,” said Ally. “I have to go brief the old man.”

Chapter 67

    “So two of the dead are known criminals and the others are ex-military?” asked The Director.

    Ally nodded. “That’s right…and they had no criminal records. In fact all were listed as missing persons. The two who killed themselves were both ex-special forces. From what Maggie Williams sent me they all had excellent military records. All three had recently left active duty with honorable discharges. They also have been listed as missing for the past month,” said Ally.

    “And two of them shot themselves immediately after receiving the phone call?” asked The Director.

    Ally nodded. “We’ve sent blood and tissue samples to our main lab. They’re testing for the same drugs we found in Dana Rawlings.”

    “You think there is a connection?”

    “It seems like a good place to start. If the group who changed Dana Rawlings is trying to set up a laboratory then robbery might be a good way to raise capital. We know they are receiving protection from the drug cartels; but that seems to be just a local security issue. I doubt they would use cartel personal to do the robberies; it would raise too many red flags, and I doubt they would want the cartel to be involved in the day-to-day running of their organization. I suspect that they contracted this robbery…and supplemented the white supremacists with their own mind-controlled personal. I also suspect that if they had gotten away with this robbery they would have eliminated the robbery team…actually they would have had the team eliminate themselves…but that’s just my theory,” explained Ally.

    “It’s a damn good theory,” stated The Director.

    Ally’s PDA began to vibrate and she answered it.

    “Initial test results show the same drugs that we found in Dana Rawlings,” stated Ally.

    The Director nodded. “This case just moved to the top of our priorities. This is no longer just a sex slavery operation. This group could easily branch out from criminal to terrorist activities.”

    He picked up his phone and placed a call to the White House.

Chapter 68

    “Well that was a waste of time and a total failure,” stated the man bitterly. “Four weeks of planning down the toilet.”

    “I disagree,” said the woman. “Yes, we failed to get the money….but the personnel performed as programmed. We just didn’t count on the change to the security.”

    “That’s the problem. Our puppets weren’t capable of adapting. They should have backed off when they saw the additional security,” continued the man.

    “We can’t program them for every contingency.”

    “Exactly. The mind control process has its limitations. We need to have someone with the team capable of making on the spot decisions.”

    The woman nodded. “I have reached the same conclusion.”

    “I just hope we get another opportunity,” continued the man.

    “You worry too much. Do you really think that the authorities can track us down?”

    “Don’t underestimate them; it’s one thing to abduct a teenager…when you attempt to rob a federal cash depository it will attract attention,” stated the man.

    “They’ll blame it on the racists we used.”

    “Maybe…but I think we should focus on smaller targets. We should hit local banks…it will take more time, but the risk is less.”

    The woman waved her hand at the man. “You worry too much Gregory.”

    “And you don’t worry enough Lisa,” he replied. “You brought me in to help you run this operation…but if you want to make it work you need to listen to me.”

    “I know what I’m doing,” replied Lisa Henderson.

    “Margo Simon said the same thing…Leala Zachariah said the same thing too…and look at them. Margo is dead…and Leala is in a Super Max for the rest of her life! I left both of them when they stopped listening to me.”

    “And will you leave me too?” asked Lisa.

    Gregory stared back. “I have as much loyalty to you as you have for me. This is a business relationship and we need each other to make it work. I’m willing to take risks…but I’m not willing to go to jail for life for you.”

    Lisa nodded. “You’re right…I can be too impetuous at times. The problem is that our orders are starting to back up… the mind control aspect of this is the easy part…it’s also fairly simple to get subjects…it’s the feminizing aspect that is time consuming and costly…we need capital and we need it now.”

    “I have a plan that I would like to run past you…how many teens could you process through at one time if all you had to do was program them?” he asked.

    “I could do dozens, why?”

    Gregory rubbed his chin. “Hear me out. What if we go about this differently…instead of running a long term operation we make a quick killing…we grab a large number of teens at once, process and sell them and then retire.”

    “How do you plan to do that?”

    “We hit the Farnsworth Foundation in Connecticut. Nearly all of Margo Simon’s and Leala Zachariah’s work wound up there. We could grab several dozen teens at one time and all we need to do is re-program them. Yes, it would be risky, but the payoff would be fantastic.”

    “I don’t know...we have a long list of clients…and they have money to burn.”

    “The longer we stay in business the greater the possibility that we will be caught. I don’t trust the cartel personnel and I don’t trust our clients.”

    “What’s the security like at the Foundation?”

    “They have a few guards…most are old…I imagine they are retired cops…they won’t give us any trouble. They also have a motion detection system…no fences…we could be in and out in less than an hour. There’s a private airport less than twenty minutes away, we could load the teens on private jets and be gone before they knew what hit them.”

    “How many people will you need?” asked Lisa who was obviously interested in the plan.

    “Twenty for the assault and then there’s the jet crews. I suggest that we have three jets so even if one is caught we still will make a profit.”

    “And I suppose that you want to bring in your own people,” she stated.

    Gregory nodded. “I don’t want amateurs or brainwashed zombies. I need men who can think and adapt to changing situations. The men that I am thinking of will do it for the right price; yes it’s more expensive this way…but it’s worth it.”

    “How soon can you do it?”

    “I need six weeks…I know this seems like a long time, but I want to do it right.”

    Lisa nodded. “I like it…let’s do it. In the meantime I would like to work on a private project.”

    “What do you mean?” asked Gregory.

    “I’ve been thinking about this ever since we transformed Dana Rawlings. She was  a bit too tall for me… otherwise I might have considered keeping her for myself…I’d like a personal maid…and I would like her to be a femmed boy…a short petite teen that I can transform into a ultra feminized maid. If I gave you a general physical description could you get an appropriate male?”

    Gregory was against the idea as he didn’t anything to risk his operation against the foundation…but it would keep Lisa busy and out of his hair.

    “I should be able to do that. I’ll head over to one of the resort towns…they are filled with college kids.”

    “Wonderful,” said Lisa as she licked her lips.

Chapter 69

    Dana walked across the grounds to her daily meeting with Nancy Chen.

    She felt more at ease since Jen’s visit…and the fact that the media had appeared to have lost interest in her. Her parents called to tell her that they had received a call from one of the networks stating that they would no longer be bothering them. Dana had asked Jen about it. Jen stated that she had nothing to do with it. Dana then suspected that maybe Agent Burns had pulled some magic.

    As Dana approached Nancy’s office she noticed a construction crew working in the student lounge. Nancy had told her that the longue would be closed for a week to do some renovations.  Dana couldn’t imagine what they were doing as the lounge was one of the newer buildings on the grounds.

    Dana entered the building that contained Nancy’s office and checked in with the receptionist.

    Nancy came out almost immediately.

    “Always on time,” stated Nancy with a smile.

    “What can I say…I’m a Virgo,” replied Dana.

    “Please come in,” said Nancy.

    Dana followed Nancy inside and sat down.

    They talked for a few minutes about the media.

    “Well, I’m glad that they are leaving you alone,” said Nancy.

    “They seem more interested in the lobbyist scandal in DC…not that I can blame them…it is a juicy story,” replied Dana.

    Nancy nodded. “I was wondering if you would be interested in another visitor,” said Nancy.

    “Sure…who is this time?”

    “Her name is Jean Logan…and you two have a lot in common,” said Nancy.

    “What do you mean…was she also transformed?”

    “And she underwent mind control,” replied Nancy. “In fact the people who transformed you may have been associated with the group that changed Jean.”

    Dana sat up in her seat. While there were many girls at the foundation who had been forcibly transformed in mind and body, she hadn’t met anyone who had undergone a similar form of mind control.

    “Really?”

    Nancy nodded. “So, do you want to talk with her?”

    Dana nodded. “Yes, very much so.”

    “I thought you would…she’ll be here in less than an hour. Since the lounge is closed down you can use my office.”

Chapter 70

    Dana stood up as a gorgeous blonde woman walked into Nancy’s office. Even in her conservative gray suit, the woman looked like a fashion model.

    Whoever had transformed Dana had taken ensured that she look feminine, but Dana was shocked by Jean’s physical appearance. The people that had changed Jean hadn’t just made her extremely feminine; they had also made her beautiful.

    “Dana, I’m Jean,” she stated as she extended her hand.

    “I’m pleased to meet you,” replied Dana. “Thank you for coming by.”

    My pleasure…I sort of look at it as payback for all the help I was given,” she said as she sat down. “Did Nancy tell you what happened to me?”

    Dana shook her head as she sat down in the chair next to Jean.

    “I was falsely accused of a sex crime and a vigilante group abducted and transformed me. It turns out that one of people in the group knew I was innocent and was more interested in turning me into a high price escort,” explained Jean.

    “Oh my god…I’m so sorry.”

    Jean smiled. “I underwent mind control and there was nothing I could do. Thankfully the Agency caught the people who changed me. They were able to undo much of the conditioning.”

    “What do you mean?”

    “I still have the sexual urges…but they are controllable now. I was able to walk away from my job as an escort.” 

    “What do you do now?” asked Dana.

    “I work in one of the casinos in Vegas. Believe it or not I’m in security. I was a computer systems expert before I was abducted…I was able to adapt my knowledge to detect cheaters.”

    Dana nodded. “Obviously you know about me.”

    “I heard about your story on the news and an agent friend of mine briefed me on your case,” continued Jean. “It looks like the process that was used on you is very similar to what was done to me.”

    “Really? So they know who changed you?”

    Jean nodded. “They’re all in jail. I suspect that the Agency has talked to them about your case.”

    “You know that they tried to make me kill myself,” said Dana.

    Jean nodded.

    “If it hadn’t been for my mom…they would have succeeded.”

    “You were very fortunate,” said Jean.  “I also understand that the programming ended.”

    “That’s right…I had served my purpose and was no longer useful to them,” stated Dana.

    “Well, as harsh as that sounds…it was a blessing in disguise. The people who changed me really messed with my mind. Even though they have removed much of the programming…I still face a daily struggle. There are times when I could easily go back to being an escort. I’m not saying this to play down what was done to you…but it could have been worse…much worse for you. I did things that…well I’m just glad that that part of my life is over.” 

    Dana nodded.

    “I also understand that you feel guilty about not being able to fight back…trust me on this one…try not to think about it anymore. The combination of drugs and programming they used on us is very powerful. You’re not weak for giving in. Like you I was unable to resist the programming. I’ve talked to many experts about this and they all have told me that there is nothing I could have done. I know this may sound easier to say than to do…but try not to worry about the past and look to the future,” continued Jean.

    Dana laughed slightly. “I’ve heard that from several people.”

    “It’s the only way to live. I’m not saying your life will be easy, but you have a lot of people on your side. And I also know that you won’t have closure until they catch the people who changed you…trust The Agency. They’re good and they’ll never stop trying to catch the ones responsible for hurting you.”

    “You really think that they will?” asked Dana.

    Jean nodded. “They’re the best.”

Chapter 71

    Dana sat cross-legged on her bed with Rachel sitting across from her.

    Rachel looked at her watch. “Do you think she’ll come here?”

    Dana nodded.

    “I hope you’re right,” replied Rachel.

    Dana smiled back. “I owe it to Nancy for everything she’s done for me.”

    “I know what you mean…I like helping the new girls too.”

    There was a gentle knock on the door.

    “Come on in,” replied Dana.

    The door opened up and Susan walked in.

    “Hi,” she greeted softly.

    Rachel smiled back. “Hi Susan.”

    “Hi Susan,” said Dana. “Please sit wherever you want.”

    Susan nodded and she pulled Dana’s computer chair closer to the bed.

    “Is this chair okay?” asked Susan.

    “Sure,” replied Dana.

    Susan sat down. “Sorry…I’m not used to doing things on my own…it’s been a while.”    

    “I’m glad you came over,” said Dana.

    “Me too,” added Rachel. “You want a soda?”

    Susan nodded.

    “Help yourself…there are some in the mini-fridge,” said Dana.

    Susan got up and grabbed a can of soda. “Thank you…and thank you for inviting me over…it feels nice to just hang out…it’s been a long time since I’ve done that.”

    “Well, we want to be your friends,” said Rachel.

    “And you can be open with us too…we’ve all sort of been though the same sort of thing,” added Dana.

    Susan’s eyes lit up as she opened the can of soda. “You mean you were also…changed against your will?”

    Dana and Rachel nodded together.

    “I heard there were others…but I didn’t think you two were forced…you seem so…so normal,” said Susan.

    “Looks can be deceiving,” said Dana.

Dana then looked at Rachel. “Why don’t you go first?”

    “Okay. To make a long story short, I was brainwashed and transformed by my old theater teacher…he wanted me to be his lover…his feminized lover and sex toy. He had a power that allowed him to control others…and he picked me. However he was so wrapped up in me that he didn’t realize that the woman who was helping him was plotting against him,” said Rachel.

    “What happened?” asked Susan who was sitting on the edge of the chair.

    “She killed him… and was going to sell me as a sex slave,” said Rachel with a shrug of her shoulders.

    Susan gasped.

    “Thankfully things worked out. My best friend from school was hunting for me and he got the feds involved.”

    “So they caught her?” asked Susan.

    “Not exactly; they found us, killed her, and I was rescued,” replied Rachel in a matter of fact manner.

    “Wow,” stated Susan.

    “Um, you left out a small detail,” interjected Dana.

    “What does she mean?” asked Susan.

    “The rescue didn’t exactly go perfectly…the bitch shot me before she was killed,” replied Rachel.

    Susan’s hands flew to her mouth. “Were you hurt badly?”

    “I was in the hospital for a while…but you can see that I’ve made a full recovery,” said Rachel.

    “She was in the ICU for two weeks,” added Dana.

    Rachel shrugged her shoulders again. “I was asleep most of the time…by the time I woke up the worst was over.”

    “It wasn’t quite that simple,” said Dana.

    “I survived…that’s all that matters,” said Rachel.

    “Wow…what about the friend who tracked you down?” asked Susan.

    “We’re sort of dating,” replied Rachel with a grin.

    “Wow,” replied Susan. “It’s like a fairy tale.”

    Rachel laughed. “I never thought of it that way…but Ken did rescue me.”

She then turned to Dana. “What about you, Dana?”

    Dana told her what had happened.

    “I know it’s not as dramatic as Rachel’s story,” said Dana.

    “Still it must have been horrible to wake up changed…at least I saw what was happening to me…and that was pretty bad. I think you’re both so brave to survive your ordeals.”

    “Okay, your turn, Susan,” said Rachel. “Nancy told us a little about what happened.”

    Susan sipped her soda.

    “It’s okay, Susan…we’re friends here…right?”

    Susan nodded. “Okay…I was grabbed when I was in junior high...they changed me…they gave me this body…with these curves…large breasts…a feminine face…but they left my dick…they adjusted the meds so that I could still get hard. They trained me…and then sold me as a sex slave,” she admitted. “The police in Japan raided the brothel I was working in and I was brought here.”

    “I’m so sorry,” said Dana.

    “It must have been awful,” added Rachel.

    “To be honest much of it was a blur…I barely remember the first couple of years,” said Susan.

    “Or maybe you don’t want to remember it,” stated Dana.

    Susan nodded slightly as she took another drink. “Maybe.”

    “If you don’t want to talk about it…it’s cool,” interjected Rachel.

    “I don’t mind…it feels good to talk about it….I mean my old life is over…the people that took me killed my old life,” said Susan. “Do you feel the same way?”

    “Not exactly,” replied Rachel. “I have my friends and family to support me. But then again I wasn’t abducted for as long as you were.”

    “But do you see yourself as a girl now?” asked Susan.

    Rachel nodded.

    Susan looked at Dana. “What about you?”

    “I’m forced to live as a woman…but I still have a lot of my old life with me,” said Dana. “My parents still love and support me.”

    Susan shook her head. “Not me. My old life is dead.”

    “What about your family?” asked Rachel.

    “They’re…confused. I don’t think they know what to think of me. They thought I was dead…and I guess they’d rather keep it that way,” she said.

    “I’m so sorry to hear that,” said Rachel.

    Susan let out a sigh. “You see my family has a long line of serving in the military. I grew up on the stories of them. We’ve had family in every war going back to before the Revolutionary War. I wanted to serve too…and I planned on applying to West Point…but that’s impossible now…it’s all in the past.”

    “So what do you want to do now?” asked Rachel.

    “I don’t know…I was really good at my last job,” she replied with a far off look in her eyes.

    “You don’t mean as a…um,” stammered Dana.

    “A whore,” interjected Susan. “It’s okay…that’s what I was…and I was good at it…very good at it.”

    “You can do much more than that,” argued Rachel.

    “I know,” replied Susan. “I know how bad it was…but there are moments when I wish I was back at the brothel. I know it’s wrong…and I know part of it is the programming….but I was good.”

    Dana and Rachel looked at each other as if they were wondering what to say.

    “Um if you don’t mind…did you ever want to be a woman before this?” asked Dana.

    Susan shook her head. “No, I was happy being a boy…at least I think I was. As for sex…when I thought I was normal back then too…what about you Dana?”

    “They only changed the physical side of me,” said Dana. “I had a girlfriend and we were…almost engaged. Now I have no sex drive thanks to the surgery they did on me. I plan on getting SRS down the line. I don’t like being in between.”

    “So do you still see yourself as a guy?” asked Susan.

    “Something like that…mentally anyway…for now,” replied Dana. “The people that changed me initially programmed me to adjust to being female…but when they discarded me…that wore off and left me to adjust to my new body.”

    Susan nodded. “Rachel, if you have a boyfriend does that mean you only like boys?”

    “I guess I’m bisexual,” confessed Rachel. “I sometimes have ‘difficulty’ separating what was programmed into my mind and what was always there. The bastard who changed me started messing with my mind when I was in high school. The good thing is that I accept who I am now and can move on.”

    “How long will you stay here?” asked Susan.

    “I’m free to leave anytime…but I want to stay here a bit longer. I’m going back to college next year at U-Conn,” said Rachel.

    “What about you, Dana?” asked Susan.

    “I don’t know…I’m still adjusting to my new life. I do like it here so it’s no big deal,” she replied.

    “Are you still going to be a reporter?”

    Dana stared back. “I don’t know…I sort of hate the press right now…they abused my family and my friends…I’m sort of shamed that I ever wanted to be in the media.”

    “So is that another part of the adjustment?”

    Dana nodded.

    “I can relate to that…it is nice here,” said Susan. “It’s a nice place to recover.”

    “You know Susan, we have something else in common,” stated Rachel

    “What’s that?” asked Susan.

    “The person who abducted and changed you…she taught the woman who changed me,” said Rachel.

    “Wow,” replied Susan. “How do you know that?”

    “Nancy told me,” said Rachel.

    “What about you Dana?” asked Susan.

    “They’re still looking for them,” replied Dana. She then told them about her visit with Ally Burns.

    “Do you really believe her?” asked Susan cautiously.

    Dana nodded.

    “I don’t trust the police or anyone associated with them,” said Susan. “I’m sure that the local police helped those who grabbed me.”

    “Well, I think I can trust Ally,” said Dana firmly.

    “Why is that?” asked Susan.

    “She’s one of us…I mean she’s transgendered. I read an article on her online,” said Dana.

    Susan looked shocked. “Really? The Feds hired someone like us?”

    Rachel nodded. “I’ve never met her, but I know all about her. She’s part of the reason why this place exists.”

    Rachel then told Susan about Ally’s connection to the Foundation and Celeste.

    “Wait…she caught Margo Simon?” asked Susan. “That’s the witch that sold me.”

    “Ally also is the one who killed her,” explained Rachel.

    Susan’s eyes lit up bright. “There is karma! One of us killed the wicked witch!”

    “Dana, can I use your computer? I know where to find the article on how Ally killed Margo,” said Rachel.

    “Go for it,” replied Dana.

    “I want to read this!” said Susan excitedly and she got up from the chair so that Rachel could use it.

    *****

    Outside the dorm building Nancy Chen was walking by and could see the lights on in Dana’s room. She fought the urge to stop by to see how they were progressing; instead she would let nature take its course.

She had discovered that allowing the girls to form tight friendships greatly aided their recovery. It had worked for Celeste, Tina, and Brenda. In fact Nancy tried to match up all the girls, no matter how damaged they were. She wished that she had done that for Dot who still had a long and painful recovery ahead of her.

Chapter 72

    Back at The Agency Ally Burns read the latest status report on the Dana Rawlings case. The good news was that the lab matched the drugs in Dana’s body to those created by Margo Simon.

    Ally reached back into her fridge and grabbed another Diet Coke. So even from the grave Margo Simon continued to do evil.  Ally rubbed her shoulder, closed her eyes and pictured the look on Margo’s face as the bullets ripped into her body. Ally shook off the feelings of satisfaction. She knew it was wrong to take pleasure in killing another…even Margo Simon.

    So if the people who changed Dana had a connection to Margo then there was a chance that Dr. Liang might be able to provide them with some names. The good doctor was currently in a Super-Max prison serving consecutive life sentences. The prison served two purposes; it kept Dr. Liang locked away and it also kept her enemies away from her. The People’s Republic of China still wanted her dead.

    Ally debated who she wanted to go and interview Dr. Liang and decided that there was only one person she trusted.

Chapter 73

    Steve Williams sat across from Dr. Liang in the interrogation room of the prison.

    “Your government must want something special to send out their top interrogator,” said Dr. Liang.

    Steve smirked. “Flattery will get you no where.”

    For some strange reason that neither one understood; Dr Liang seemed to open up to Agent Steve Williams.

    “I need some information,” said Steve.

    “Always to the point...what are you offering in return?” she asked.

    “What do you want?” he replied.

    “I want some decent food…real Chinese food…not Chop Suey!”

    “Okay, I will see what I can do…depending on the information you provide,” he said.

    He knew that she had a wealth of information and that she would only dish it out when it served her purpose. He also knew she had no loyalty to anyone…just to herself.

    He described the drugs and mind control processes used on Dana.

    Dr. Liang nodded.

    “So can you tell me who might be capable of doing this?” asked Steve.

    “There are only a few. The drugs are very difficult to reproduce and the mind control processes are even more difficult to master,” she replied.

    “Will you give me the names?”

    “In exchange for the meals. I will write out a menu and if you provide it I will give you the names,” she stated.

    Steve shook his head. “No, you will give me the names and if they check out I will ensure you get the meals. If you lie to me then you’ll get Taco Bell.”

    Dr. Liang glared at Steve. “Gun Kai!”

    Steve laughed. “What a mouth you have. No I will not ‘fuck off’…but if you give us some worthwhile names I will keep my word.”

    Dr. Liang smiled back. “You’ve been studying Mandarin.”

    “Just the swear words…I used to be a sailor.”

    “Very well, hand me your notepad…I will give you the names.”

    “Thank you,” replied Steve as he handed her the legal pad and pen.

Chapter 74

    “Michelle, this is Steve, I need your expertise,” he said.

    “Okay, what do you need?” asked The Agency’s top researcher.

    “I need everything you have on the following Jolanta Sikorski, Szalok Petzval, Lisa Henderson, and Sunee Charki. Don’t worry about the spellings as you should receive my text any second,” he said.

    “What any interesting group of names…what should I be looking for?” asked Michelle.

    “Any ties to Margo Simon, international sexual slavery or anything like that.”

    “I’ll get right on it,” she replied. “By the way…where are you?”

    “Somewhere over Indiana,” he replied. “I’m on a company jet.”

    “Okay…I get back to you shortly.”

    An hour later Michelle called Steve back.

    “That was too easy,” she said. “Three on the list are either dead or in prison.”

    “Who is the one who isn’t?” he asked.

    “Lisa Henderson,” she replied. “Henderson is 45, originally from New York City, has multiple medical degrees…pretty prestigious schools too…including Duke and Johns Hopkins. Her medical license was revoked for misconduct…and she worked with Leala Zachariah…there’s a name from the past!”

    “What else?”

    “She’s known to be close to a man named Gregory Sanders…give me a minute, I think we have a file on him.”

    “How long will that take?” 

     “Done…oh ye of little faith…Ooo, he’s a real bad one. Was once in the British Special Forces…SAS…was discharged following a mission to Iraq…it doesn’t say why…but I can find out  later….has worked as a security expert for several corporations…but the money wasn’t good enough…he recently has ties to several criminal organizations. Interpol and Scotland Yard both have warrants out for his arrest.”

    “Good work, I’ll pick up the files as soon as I get to the office. Do me a favor and confirm the information on the others…and I owe you a bottle of wine.”

    “Pinot Noir this time,” she stated.

Chapter 75

    Steve sat across from Ally as she read his report.

    “It looks like you owe Dr. Liang some food,” said Ally as she read.

    “Already ordered it,” he replied.

    “So Michelle confirmed the status of the others?”

    Steve nodded. “Sikorski and Charki are both dead. The first was shot during a police raid and the later was executed in Thailand last year. The other, Szalok Petzva, has been locked up for the last eighteen months and is doing forty to life in England. The Brits are sending us their file.”

    “So Dr. Henderson has a connection to both Dr. Liang and Leala Zachariah…that looks very promising,” said Ally.

    “Keep reading,” said Steve.

    Ally flipped to the next page and let out a slight curse.

    “She interned under Margo Simon,” stated Ally.

    “If we get her we may be able to finally snuff out this fire,” said Steve. “From what Michelle turned up, Henderson may be a good student but she’s no teacher.”

    Ally nodded. “What about her lover?”

    “He’s very good at his work,” replied Steve. “He was in the SAS which is almost as good as being a SEAL.”

    Ally smiled slightly. “Any other connections to this case other than Henderson?”

    “Look at the next page,” said Steve.

    Ally flipped to the next page and saw a photo.

    “That’s Shawn McGwire,” she stated.

    “Gregory Sanders is the one on the left,” said Steve with a grin. “The photo was taken last year down in Baja by the DEA.”

    “You get a gold star for this one,” said Ally.

    “Michelle did the hard work…she would like a bottle of Pinot Noir.”

    “She’ll get it,” said Ally.

    “Any luck on Operation Moray?” asked Steve.

    Ally shook her head. “No…it’s gone strangely quiet in the rooms.”

    “They can’t know we’re on to them so soon,” said Steve.

    “You’re right…something else is brewing…why would someone go to all the trouble of setting up an organization and advertizing their product and then not follow through?”

    “Maybe the narcos took them out?”

    Ally shook her head. “They’re not known for being subtle…we would have heard something from the Mexicans.”

    “What about abductions?’ asked Steve.

    “Nothing out of the ordinary…jeez I can’t believe I just said that,” said Ally. “The ad stated that they would provide high quality English speaking girls…and we’re checking out all missing person reports that meet the criteria.”

    “What about down in Mexico? Have any tourists or college kids disappeared?” asked Steve.

    “Just one…and the Houston office is working on it,” said Ally as she leaned back in her chair.

    “You look beat,” said Steve.

    “I am…I’m just worried that something bad is about to happen,” she said as she rubbed her temples. “We need to find Henderson and if she’s behind this… we need to shut her down.”

    Steve rubbed his chin. “And we can’t notify the Mexicans yet…right?”

    Ally nodded. “And we can’t go down there ourselves.”

    “We can’t send an agent…what about a private citizen?”

    Ally stared back. “Who do you have in mind?”

    “A PI, she used to work for us and now she works for The Boudicca Agency,” said Steve. “Her name is Nina Vasquez.”

    “Get me her file I’ll need to run this past The Director,” she said.

    “I’ll have it in your hands in less than an hour,” replied Steve.

Chapter 76

    “I’m impressed,” stated Gregory as he looked at the feminized male who was strapped down in the examination chair.

    The teen stared back with fear in his eyes. He would have cried out but his vocal cords were paralyzed.

    “It’s fun to transform one physically first,” replied Lisa as she examined her work. “I will mould her mind after I see how she comes out.”

    Matt Francis couldn’t believe what was happening to him. Two weeks earlier he had been partying with his high school friends at a Gulf Coast resort. It was one last fling before college. He had left the beach and had headed up to his room when they grabbed him. At first he thought it was a kidnapping…but then the woman began to change him. With each passing day she changed him a bit more. His lips were now much larger and thicker; she called them cock-sucker lips. Matt cringed at this as he considered himself one hundred percent heterosexual.

    She injected his cheeks and caused them to grow rounder. The effect was amazing as it made him look like a girl.

    His shoulder length brown hair was now styled like a girl and it was also bleached blonde. His eyebrows were now thin arched lines and his beard was totally gone. In fact all his body hair, other than that on his head was gone; thanks to some foul smelling cream the woman had coated him with.

    On each of his fingertips was now a long nail…coated with bright pink polish…the same color that was on his toenails.

    Then there were the other changes. Since he had been abducted he had lost a lot of weight…and his body was less muscular. It had to be the daily injections she gave him. The one part of his body that was growing was his nipples; they were several sizes larger…and more sensitive. He didn’t think that female hormones could cause such swift changes, but he had heard the woman saying something about a new formula.

    “What are you going to do about that?” asked Gregory as he pointed at Matt’s cock.

    “I’m going to let her keep it…but I plan on piercing it and placing it into a chastity device. I want to keep her sexually aroused all the time…and deprived of the satisfaction of a climax. It will help me break her,” explained Lisa. “Any word on when the shackles will be done?”

    “Another week,” replied Gregory. “They’re a custom job…and it takes time.”

    Lisa nodded. “I can’t wait to lock her in them. For all practical purposes they will be on her wrists and ankles permanently…this will make controlling her easier.”

    “So you’re not going to totally brainwash her?” asked Gregory.

    “That’s just for the clients. I want to break her the old fashioned way…I want to watch her slowly change and accept that she is a feminized slave…an owned sissy,” she said as she ran her hand across Matt’s face.

    Matt tried to pull back, but his head was held in place by the collar that was attached to the chair.

    “How big will you make her breasts?” asked Gregory.

    “Big…I also like big titties,” she replied with an evil laugh.

    Matt glared at them…unable to do anything else.

    “I think she’s angry,” noted Gregory.

    “That will change…I still haven’t thought of a good name for her…I want something very feminine…an appropriate for the delicate flower she is becoming,” said Lisa.

    “How about Lily?” suggested Gregory.

    Lisa rolled her tongue across her lips. “Ooo, I like that…and maybe a nice flower tattoo above her clitty!”

    “That would be very sexy,” said Gregory.

    Lisa leaned over and stroked Matt’s face. “You’re new name is Lily…no last name…you don’t need one…accept it and life will be easier for you…but it doesn’t matter if you resist…I will beat you down Lily.”

    Matt tried to scream out…but nothing came out.

    “I don’t think she appreciates what you’ve done for her,” he said.

    Lisa laughed. “I know…too bad as she better get used to it. Do you want to use her?”

    Gregory shook his head. “Sorry…she’s pretty…but I’m not into girls like her.”

    “Too bad…they are usually excellent cocksuckers. Oh well, I suppose one of the guards will be her first,” said Lisa. “So, Lily ready to suck your first cock?”

    Matt stared back in horror and began to cry.    

Chapter 77

    Dana, Rachel and Susan were sitting out on the main quad lawn. It was pleasant summer day and the three friends were enjoying the weather.

    “How come you never wear a skirt, Dana?” asked Susan.

    Dana shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t feel comfortable in them.”

    “You have the legs for them,” said Susan with a smile.

    Dana was wearing shorts and she instinctively ran her hands over her legs. “Maybe…but it doesn’t feel right. I know that I will have to get used to these kinds of things…but not yet.”

    “It takes some time getting used to,” said Rachel. “My biggest problem is finding clothes that make me look my age. That psycho bitch doctor made me look like I’m fifteen…with the body of a woman. I’m going to be carded for a long time after I leave here…no one will believe that I’m in my twenties.”

    “There are worse problems,” said Susan. “At least you don’t have an elevated sex drive.”

    “Okay…okay… enough of the self pity…let’s talk about something else,” interjected Dana.

    “I don’t know….I like self pity…what about you Susan?” asked Rachel as she giggled.

    “Yes, let’s waste a beautiful day bemoaning what was done to us!” added Susan.

    All three began to laugh uncontrollably.

    Nancy Chen watched from across the quad and smiled. It was good seeing any of the students laugh; however she took extra pleasure in seeing the newest girls showing joy.

    She continued across the campus and she saw Max Bowie talking to one of the security guards.

    “Hi Max,” she greeted.

    Max turned and smiled. He gave her a gentle hug. “I was about to come looking for you Nancy.”

    “What’s up?”

    “The new security system is operational and I want to know how you want to train the students,” said Max.

    Nancy nodded. “Is this really necessary?”

    “Maybe,” replied Max. “It’s better to be prepared…just in case.”

    “You’re holding something back, Max,” she said.

    “I keep forgetting how hard it is to lie to a trained professional. Yes we have some indications that there might be some trouble,” he said.

    “Indications…from who?”

    “Ally Burns,” replied Max.

    “Okay…what do you need?”

    “Let’s go into your office and talk,” he said. “Then I can show you how it works.”

    Nancy nodded and led Max towards her office.

Chapter 78

    Ally sat across from The Director and briefed him on Nina Vasquez’s trip to Mexico.

    “The suspected site for the facility wasn’t hard to find…it’s right on the ocean,” explained Ally. “According to what we’ve uncovered, it’s listed as a new hospital for international medical tourism. It’s scheduled to open next year.”

    “An excellent cover for the type of facility for creating sex slaves…assuming we have the right place,” said The Director.

    “Nina was able to spot Gregory Sanders at the site,” she continued as she set down her can of Diet Coke.

    “Obviously he’s not worried about being spotted,” said The Director as he looked at the surveillance photos.

    “According to the locals his title is general manager,” stated Ally.

    The Director nodded. “What about our other suspect; did she spot Dr. Henderson?”

     “Briefly,” stated Ally. “She got this photograph of Henderson on the grounds of the facility. We’ve also identified a dozen or so of the security guards…several are from the cartels and others are known mercenaries.”

    “What about the local authorities?”

    “According to Nina’s report they are all on the take. The facility probably will see legitimate clients…it will be a good cover.”

    “What else?” asked The Director.

    “The facility is completed...but we haven’t seen any increase in abductions or missing persons,” said Ally. “The last word we got from one of the websites is that there will be an auction within the next thirty days…the exact date isn’t set. Is it possible to get electronic surveillance of the center?”

    The Director nodded as he took a sip of his coffee and then set his mug down on his desk.

    “If they haven’t been grabbing teens for transformations then they will need to get them from somewhere else,” said Ally.

    “You still think that they’re targeting The Farnsworth Foundation?” he asked.

    Ally nodded. “Nothing solid…but the evidence is adding up.”

    “Have there been any additional security breaches?” he asked.

    Ally handed him Max’s latest report. It listed several minor incidents in the past few weeks. By themselves they seemed harmless, but taken together it was obvious that someone was probing the foundation’s security.

    The Director read it. “As much as it sickens me, I have to agree with your theory, Ally.”

    “Max reports that the added security systems are operational and that the staff and students have received training,” she said.

    “I hope it’s enough. Contact Steve and have him place one of his Strike teams on standby.” 

    “Yes, Sir,” she replied.

    “What else Ally?”

    She smiled slightly. “If this does go down, I plan on going there…to observe.”

    The Director shook his head. “No.”

    “Why not?” she demanded.

    “I don’t need you up there observing…if this goes down I want you up there in charge.”

    Ally felt herself getting choked up.

    “Yes, I know you aren’t a field agent…but I still run this organization and I want the best people up there…especially for this sort of operation.”

    “Thank you…I won’t let you down.”

    “You never have Ally,” he replied.

Chapter 79

    Two days later Ally was called into one of The Agency’s secure briefing rooms. It was there that she listened to a tape of a cell phone conversation. The call originated from Mexico and was traced to Connecticut.

    “How did you get it?” asked Ally.

    “We gave the NSA a list of keywords,” said the agent. “I think when you hear it you’ll understand.”

    To Ally’s amazement the conversation immediately discussed the security at the Farnsworth Foundation.

    “Have you identified either of these people?” asked Ally.

    “We’ve positively identified the speaker from Mexico as Gregory Sanders,” said one of the technicians.

    “And the one in Connecticut?” asked Ally.

    “We’re still checking…the speaker has a slight Irish accent…most likely from Belfast,” stated the technician.

    Ally nodded. “Print me out a transcript of this.”

    Ten minutes later Ally was sitting across from The Director.

    “We have to assume that their teams are already in this country,” he said.

    “Do you mean that we’re going to wait until they strike?” asked Ally.

    “We might get lucky and get them before they act…but Sanders is ex-SAS and he’ll keep his team down until they’re ready to strike. Our best option is to be ready to grab them there. Before you say it, I don’t like it either, but this may be the only way.”

    “What about telling Celeste?”

    “I’ll take care of that,” said The Director.

Chapter 80

    “So you really think the foundation is going to be attacked?” asked Carol as they cooked dinner.

    Ally nodded. “I wish I was wrong. The only good thing is that we’ve just wrapped up two other operations and we can shift personnel to this case.”

    “Have you told Celeste?”

    “The Director briefed her this afternoon. I don’t know what it is, but he has some special interest in her,” said Ally.

“And what did she say?”

“She feels that we’ve taken all necessary actions,” said Ally.  “She’s a calm one.”

    “What about evacuating the students and staff?”

    “It was suggested it to her, but she said that it might tip off the people who are going to raid the site. She says that would only delay the inevitable,” said Ally.

    “You don’t agree,” stated Carol.

    “I’m torn…those kids have been through so much…I hate to put them through a possible hostage situation. But I can see Celeste’s point too…it might be the only way. There are days when I really wish I was just a detective.”

    “I doubt that,” said Carol. “You like the action too much.”

    “True, but it’s different using agents as bait…these are civilians.”

    “Is Steve’s team in place?” asked Carol.

    “Plural…he sent up two teams. One is less than five minutes away…the second is only ten. He’d like to have them closer…but that’s not possible.”

    ‘What about the site in Mexico?”

    “I found that there are things that even the Assistant Director aren’t privileged to know about. The Director hinted that there is an ongoing operation…but it’s beyond my need to know as it’s international in scope.”

    Carol nodded. “You have enough on your plate as it is.”

    Ally nodded. “Oh, do you think you can get away for a few days? I’m going to combine business with pleasure…Celeste has offered us the use of her home on Long Island for the weekend. I can also be close if something goes down.”

    Carol smiled. “I already started packing…Celeste called me this afternoon.”

    “I love you,” replied Ally. “What about Bogie?”

    “I talked to the neighbors…they’ll stop in and take care of the furball.”

Chapter 81

    Gregory stepped out of the terminal and walked to his rental car. It was risky coming to Connecticut so close to the raid, but he had some last minute changes that required he be here in person to make.

    He figured that the risks were small as it was unlikely that anyone would suspect that they would hit the foundation. He was more worried about the aftermath of the raid. He just wanted to get rich and he didn’t want to spend the rest of his life as a hunted fugitive.

    The original plan was to fly the teens out of the country. Instead he would have the teens transported down to the coast and then moved to a waiting ship. It would take longer to move the teens to Mexico, but it was safer. He would use the jets as a decoy to distract the authorities.

    His strike team was currently moving into place. He was using twelve men to attack the Foundation.  Many were ex-military or had ties to paramilitary organizations. They would strike after midnight and grab as many teens as possible. He didn’t worry about the security guards and the nearest police station was twenty minutes away. He estimated the operation would take less than fifteen minutes.

    Gregory had the fullest confidence in his team. They had been practicing for weeks and they knew the grounds like the back of their own hands. Besides, how much trouble could a bunch of sissies be? He could almost count the money they would make from this raid.

Chapter 82

    Ally and Carol walked hand-in-hand along the shore after dinner.

    “That was a wonderful dinner Ina prepared for us,” said Carol.

    “I know,” replied Ally. She let out a contented sigh. “It’s been so long since we were alone like this.” 

    “I know,” replied Carol.

    “I miss it,” continued Ally.

    “Me too.”

    “We don’t exactly have the sort of careers that allow a lot of free time,” Ally continued.

    “That’s true…but before you say it…we both love our jobs too.”

    Ally smiled at her.

    “Haven’t you thought about giving it all up?” asked Ally.

    “And do what?”

    Ally hesitated. “Okay, you got me on that one.”

    “Honey, I love you so much and part of what I love about you is your drive towards your career. You have no idea of how proud of you I am…you’ve accomplished so much…and the last thing I would ever want is for you to give it up. I saw how scared you were when you thought you were going to be medically retired.”

    Ally nodded.

    “You know you wouldn’t be happy in another job,” continued Carol.

    “Okay, you got me,” said Ally.

    “And you never have to worry about our careers getting in the way…I love you so much…I can’t imagine life without you,” continued Carol.

    Ally snuggled closer. “I love you too.”

    They were just about to kiss when Ally’s phone went off.

    Ally looked at the caller; it was Steve.

    “Sorry to interrupt you, but Gregory Sanders was sighted walking through Bradley Airport this afternoon,” he said.

    Ally froze in place. “Go on.”

    “We have his rental car. He picked a high end model and they come with LOJAC. I’ve already sent the paperwork in to get a trace,” he continued.

    “Where are you?” she asked.

    “I’ll be touching down in a company helicopter at the local airport in fifteen minutes to pick you and Carol up.”

    “We’ll be there,” said Ally.

    “See you shortly…Boss,” replied Steve as he hung up.

    “You were saying something about looking for another career?” asked Carol.

    Ally leaned over and kissed Carol.

Chapter 83

    Ally and Carol stepped into the helicopter and put on headsets.

    “We traced the car to a parking garage in New Haven,” said Steve as took off from the airport.

    “Any sign of Sanders?” asked Ally as she adjusted her microphone.

    Steve shook his head. “But we have the car under surveillance just in case he comes back, but I doubt he’ll be that stupid. We did find his prints in the car.”

    “Do you think that this is it?” asked Ally.

    He nodded. “I’ve placed my teams on alert.”

    “What about the Foundation?”

    “We can’t risk tipping Sanders off. We have sent a signal to the security guards, but we’ll have to hold off on telling the students and staff until we know for sure. Ally, if something happens the guards will know what to do. Max Bowie personally recruited them.”

    “If this is it…what about Henderson?” asked Ally. “For us to put an end to this we need to get her too.”

    “That’s up to the old man,” replied Steve. “However, we do have something standing by…just in case. You know the rules…you may be the Assistant Director, but you’re strictly domestic ops.”

    Ally nodded. “Yeah, I know, you don’t have to remind me… but you get to play in both areas.”

    Steve smiled. “That’s because I’m so charming.”

    Carol broke out in laughter. “Steve, you’ve caused more international incidents than Donald Rumsfeld!”

    “True, but I’m more fun at parties than him!” he replied with a grin.

    “So where are we going?” asked Ally.

    “We have a command center set up near the foundation. We’ll be landing nearby and drive over there. Madison is leading Alpha-team and Tom has command of Beta-Team.”

    Ally nodded. “How did they take to being broken up?”

    “They look at it as a friendly competition,” replied Steve. “I’ll give you a complete breakdown of the teams once we land…you know most of them.”

    The helicopter landing at the airport didn’t draw any undo attention as it looked similar to the other corporate aircraft.

    Ally, Carol, and Steve walked towards the sedan waiting for them. Ally looked across the tarmac and noticed three identical corporate jets lined up next to each other. What caught her attention was that the serial numbers on the jet’s tails were sequential.

    “Steve, run a trace on those,” she said as they got in the sedan. “You just don’t normally see three jets all in the same place with sequential tail numbers.”

    He nodded and he pulled out his PDA.

Chapter 84

    Gregory reviewed the plans with his strike team. He also reiterated that they were to minimize use of violence.

    “We’re not going in there to shoot the place up. We need to get in and out as fast as possible,” he stated firmly. “We have to be completely off the grounds in fifteen minutes. Any questions?”

    “What about the guards?” asked Shawn.

    “If you follow the plan then they shouldn’t be a problem, but if you have to, kill them only if necessary…they’re old men and the public tends to get upset about those sorts of things. We don’t want a bloodbath and we don’t need bad publicity,” said Gregory. “If we kill a lot of people it will make getting away more difficult. Remember, this raid is for financial reasons; every teen we get out, in one piece, is money in the bank…your bank.”

    “This should be a piece of cake,” stated a burley man named Uri. “We’ll hit the dorms so fast that the teens won’t know we’re there until we kick in their doors.”

    A few of the men laughed.

    Gregory lifted his hand to silence them.

    “I know this is a soft target…but we can’t afford to take this easy…look what happened at the Federal bank. Things can always go wrong.”

    “That won’t happen here,” said Shawn. “We’ve been watching this place for weeks.”

    “What about the construction?” asked Gregory. “Did you ever figure out what they were doing in there?”

    “New student lounge…they put in a movie theater,” said Shawn. “The rumors that we heard were that some actress named Jennifer Stevens gave them a donation to have it done. Digital projector, Dolby sound system, soundproofing, the works. We watched them haul a lot of stuff in there.”

    “Must be nice,” said Gregory.

    “When are we going in? We’ve been ready for a week,” said Shawn.

    Gregory nodded. “Tonight, we hit the foundation in two hours…let’s go over the plan one more time.”

Chapter 85

Back in Mexico, Lisa examined her latest work on Lily; breast implants.

Normally she would have liked to see what the hormones would do, but she wanted play with her toy. The pads she used were the latest technology and they gave Lily two very large round breasts.

Lisa could also see how Lily’s willpower was slowly breaking. As Lily examined her new breasts, Lisa could see that her new slave was accepting her fate.

    Lily still couldn’t speak…and it would be several weeks until she could due to the vocal cord surgery…but her eyes said it all. There was a growing look of surrender.

    Lily stared at her body and felt like crying. She barely recognized herself and she wondered if her family back in Chicago would either. She also wondered if they were still looking for her. Maybe it would best to stop fighting and accept what was being done to her…damn; she was starting to see herself as female. The tears began to fall.

    Lisa saw the tears and became immediately aroused. She also thought about the new girls that Gregory was about to acquire. Soon she would be so rich that she would never have to work again and she would have all the time she wanted to play with her new toy.

Chapter 86

    Even thought it was after midnight, Rachel, Dana, and Susan were still up and talking. It had become a regular activity between the three girls who were fast becoming as close as sisters.

    “So are your parents coming up this weekend, Dana?” asked Rachel.

    She nodded. “I’m really looking forward to it. I also want them to meet you,” replied Dana.

    Susan signed. “I wish my family would come here.”

    “They turned you down again?” asked Rachel.

    Susan nodded. “They had a legitimate excuse…but they always seem to come up with one of those…I really think that I disgraced the family…that I should have died…you know the old saying; death before dishonor.”

    “There’s another old saying,” said Dana.

    Susan cocked her head. “What’s that?”

    “That’s a crock of shit,” she replied.

    Susan burst out laughing.

    “Seriously, you should have Celeste call them,” said Rachel.

    “She did…twice…” replied Susan.

    “Maybe I could have Jen call them,” suggested Dana. “Do you think that will help?”

    Susan shrugged her shoulders. “At this point I would try anything. I mean, what do they think I could have done…I was fourteen when I was grabbed. I spent nearly four years as a sex slave…I was conditioned to obey.”

    “Did you ever think about escape?” asked Rachel.

    “I was programmed not to…and I was also programmed not to kill myself. I guess some of Margo’s earlier creations did that…and her clients were pissed off…so she made sure that wouldn’t happen again. Damn, I hate her….she totally screwed over my life. How can God allow such evil people to exist?”

    “I don’t know…but there are a lot of good people out there. Look at Celeste and Ally Burns,” said Dana.

    “Don’t forget Nancy Chen,” added Rachel.

    “And Jen and Diana Bowie,” said Dana.

    “And you two…I don’t think I can ever repay you for what you’ve done for me,” said Susan.

    “You have, Susan…you’re our sister,” said Dana who hugged Susan. Rachel then joined in.

    “Hey before it gets any more emotional in here…let’s go get something to eat…anyone up for a raid on the kitchen?” asked Rachel.

    “I’m game,” said Dana.

    “Okay, count me in,” replied Susan.

    The three girls slipped on their robes and slippers and headed over to the dining room.

Chapter 87

    The security officer on duty at the entrance was Roy Seward. Like Sam, he had once been an agent. The other two guards on duty were conducting a mobile patrol of the grounds.

    Roy looked at the monitors and saw nothing out of the ordinary, which bothered him. He had that old feeling that something bad was about to happen. He had the feeling even before he arrived for his shift and was briefed on The Agency’s report.

    Like many of the guards he had taken the job because he was bored with retirement. There were only so many days of the week he could go fishing. At first he had little to do with the girls who lived on the foundation grounds. But as he heard their stories and got a chance to meet and talk to them… he had grown to become very protective of them. He looked upon them as his own granddaughters and he even had several over each week for Sunday dinner. When he was briefed on the threat to the girls he became furious. If anyone was going to try and hurt his girls then they would have to go through him first.

    Tactically speaking, he also knew that all he had to do was delay the raid as there were two Agency Spec-Ops Strike Teams a short distance away. He smiled at how far they had come since he had served on one of the teams. He couldn’t believe the equipment they now carried these days.

    Roy looked at the clock and saw that it was almost one in the morning. The only activity, besides his roving patrol, was three girls who were in the dining room.

    He was about to get a cup of coffee when he saw the headlights of a large truck approaching the gate. That little voice that had served him so well in both the Marines and in the Agency was telling him this was trouble. He reached down and patted his trusty twelve-gauge…just in case.

    The truck looked like a delivery truck and it stopped just outside the gate. Roy checked his clipboard and saw that there were no deliveries scheduled. The driver got out, waved, and walked towards the security window.

    Roy got up and was about to open the slot in the window when he noticed that there were three blinking lights on the security console indicating motion along the fence line. He glanced at the monitors and saw what looked to be eight to ten men entering the grounds. The men were all armed with what looked like assault rifles.

    Uri paused as he sensed something was wrong. Why was the guard looking at the console? He glanced at his watch and cursed…he was five minutes late! That meant that the teams were coming through the woods and probably had already tripped the motion detectors. 

    Roy looked at Uri and grinned as he hit the panic button. He then ducked beneath the security console. 

    Uri froze as a siren’s screech shattered the night’s silence.

    “Chyort voz’mi!” cursed Uri in Russian as he ran back to the truck. He jumped inside and gunned the engine. He shifted to Plan B and would have to ram the gate. He would then kill the old man and he would enjoy it.

    Uri backed up, placed the gear in drive and floored the engine. He was about to hit the gate when he saw what looked like large steel poles shoot up from the ground. He slammed on the brakes, but it was too late to stop and the truck was immediately stopped by the security bollards.

    Uri frantically tried to back away, but he quickly discovered that the truck was impaled on the bollards. He cursed his bad luck…cursed the old man … cursed the bad intelligence…why didn’t they know the bollards were there. It was a shitty way to start an operation.

    Uri picked up his radio and was about to tell the others what had happened. He was so distracted by what had happened that he failed to notice that Roy was now standing in front of the wrecked truck. It took Uri a second to realize that the old man had what looked like a 12 gauge pump shotgun pointing at him. Uri dropped his radio and fumbled for his M-4 assault rifle.

    Roy saw the rifle and fired first, pumping three shots into the cabin of the truck, neutralizing the man inside…just like old times. He returned to the guard shack and began to monitor the situation. He ordered the roving team to stand by to assist any of the students who escaped and he notified the Agency teams of the assault.

Chapter 88

    As Uri was approaching the gate, Dana, Rachel, and Susan were having their late night snack in the kitchen.

    Susan was about go back to the pantry when the siren when off.

    Dana immediately ran over and turned off the lights.

    “We need to hide,” stated Rachel.

    “No, we should go and help the others,” said Susan.

    Dana looked outside. “Max said that we should head to the safe room in the student lounge…this is no time to start playing Rambo.”

    “You’re right,” said Rachel. “Let’s go.”

    “I’ll be right behind you,” said Susan.

    Dana and the others headed to the door and saw many of the girls and staff heading to the lounge. They froze monetarily as they heard what sounded like a shotgun going off.

    “Keep moving,” ordered Dana.

    They had been instructed that if the alarm ever went off that they were to immediately head to the lounge and go into the theater, which doubled as a safe room. The doors had been reinforced and other security measures had been installed. It was large enough to hold all students and staff. If they were cut off from the lounge they were to find a place to hide until it was safe.

    Dana, Rachel and Susan arrived first and began to direct the girls inside.

    “Come on…run faster!” urged Dana.

    Susan ran to the door and looked outside. She waved students inside.

    “Susan, tell them to hurry,” shouted Rachel.

Chapter 89

    Gregory cursed as he heard the sound of the alarm, followed by the sound of the shotgun. None of his men carried shotguns and he wondered who had been hit.

    His team ran out onto the grounds and saw the girls all running towards the lounge.

    Shawn called him on the radio.

    “What the fuck is happening?”

    “Apparently they upgraded the security…send everyone towards the student lounge…we may be able to salvage this,” ordered Gregory. “Also send someone up to the main gate to see what happened there.”

    “Roger,” replied Shawn.

    Gregory waved to his squad and they ran towards the student lounge. In some ways this might help them…if all the girls were in the lounge then they could pick the ones they wanted and leave.

Chapter 90

    “Madison, Tom, you should be getting the live video feed from the Foundation,” said Steve thought his headset.

    In addition to the security bollards, Max had several sites around the foundation wired for live video feed. The cameras were rigged for both regular and infrared. 

    “Got it,” said Madison. “Nice.”

    “Same here,” said Tom. “Remind me to thanks Max Bowie the next time we see him. This is going to make this job much easier.”

    “You can thank him yourself…he’ll be here shortly. Now, I count eleven…not including the dead one at the main gate,” said Steve. “Tom deploy your team to the west…Madison move your team in from the east. It looks like the action will be at the Student Lounge.”

    Ally stood back and watched Steve and his teams go to work. She let them work as they were the best. She also hoped that all the girls got into the safe room.

    “My team will be in place in five minutes,” said Madison.

    “Same here,” stated Tom.

    Steve turned and looked at Ally. “This will be a good test of our new tactical helmets. The command center will be able to feed in real time tactical information directly to each team member. The mobile command centers will have video too. Max did a great job setting this place up.”

    “So your new helmets are like the ones in the military?” asked Carol.

    “Pretty much, a little less bulky,” replied Steve. “Tom, Madison, if you can thin them out do so…from what I can see they’re a bit disorganized…it’s apparent they weren’t expecting any opposition…let’s add to their confusion. Try and take prisoners, but the safety of the staff and students comes first.”

    “Roger,” replied Madison and Tom almost in unison.

    “Jackson, are you in place?’ asked Steve.

    “I’m in the woods near the front gate. I see one bad guy approaching the guard shack…armed with an M-4. Permission to fire,” asked the team’s sniper.

    “Take him out,” ordered Steve.

Chapter 91

    Back in the lounge, Susan was the first one to see the approaching attackers. The men were dressed in black coveralls and were carrying military rifles. She recognized them as M-4 assault rifles.

    “Hurry, they’re almost here!” she screamed.

    “Susan, come on!” yelled Dana.

    Susan waved frantically at last five stragglers…she quickly realized that they wouldn’t make it. One of the men was swiftly overtaking them.

    The man had a large grin on his face and seemed to be enjoying himself.

Without a thought to her own safety, Susan acted. She ran at him and threw her body at his legs. The man, too intent on his prey, never saw her coming and he was caught completely off guard. He felt clumsily to the ground on top of her. In football it would have been a personal foul for clipping, but in real life her sacrifice allowed the stragglers to escape.

    The man cursed and grabbed Susan as she stood up. He shook her like a rag doll.

    “You fuckin’ bitch! I oughta kill you right here!” he screamed as he punched her repeatedly in the face. He then threw her on the ground and pointed his rifle at her unconscious body. He chambered a round and was about to shoot her at point blank range.

    “Fuckin’ Bitch!” he muttered as he began to pull the trigger. “I’ll show you!”

    “Morgan! At ease!” shouted Gregory. “We need them alive.”

    Morgan grunted and eased his finger off the trigger.

    “Bring her with you,” ordered Gregory.

    Morgan reached down and grabbed her by the collar. He dragged her inside as he followed Gregory. 

    Dana and Rachel helped the remaining girls towards the safe room.

    Gregory pointed his rifle at them. “Freeze!”

    Dana realized that she and Rachel were too far away from the door.

    “Shut the door!” she ordered. 

    The girl at the door hesitated for a moment and waved frantically for Dana and Rachel.

    “Close the door…NOW!” screamed Dana.

    The girl hit the close button and the door slammed shut.

    Morgan tossed Susan to the floor and ran to the door. He pounded on it with his rifle butt.

    Dana and Rachel were escorted over to where Susan was lying. They immediately began to see to their unconscious friend.

    “What the fuck is this?” Morgan bellowed. “Open this fucking door!”

    “New theater my ass!” said Gregory as he inspected the door. He shook his head in disgust as he realized there was no way they could break in. “It’s a safe room…looks like top quality work too.”

    “Tell your friends to open it!’ yelled Morgan at Dana and Rachel. He pointed his rifle at them. “I’ll shoot you unless you tell them to open it up.”

    “They can’t,” replied Dana. “It’s controlled by the front security office now.”

    “Bullshit! Open it or I’ll kill you!” he screamed. He was shaking slightly from rage.

    Dana stared definitely back at him as she shielded Susan’s body.

    Gregory reached over and knocked Morgan’s rifle away.

    “Morgan, they’re no use to us dead…calm down…get a hold of yourself,” ordered Gregory with disgust. He looked at the girls who were staring back at him with hatred in their eyes. “See to your friend…we won’t hurt you…I promise.”

    Dana nodded…but her eyes were still filled with hate.

    Shawn arrived with several other men.  He looked around and seemed shocked that there were only three girls in the lounge.

    “Your recon mission missed something…they have a safe room,” said Gregory. “These three are the only ones we caught.”

    “They all can’t be in there,” said Shawn. “The others must be hiding. I’ll lead a team to round them up…we can still get a few.”

    Gregory was about to speak when he heard the report of a high powered rifle. The single shot reverberated in the night air.

    “That came from the front gate,” he said. “Who’s up there?”

    Shawn frantically keyed his mic. “Travis…report in.”

    There was no answer.

    Gregory counted four men remaining. “Get everyone else here…we’re pulling out.”

Chapter 92

    “We’ve neutralized seven of them,” said Steve to Ally. “So far we have two dead and five in custody. The security guard took out one at the front gate and Jackson killed the other. As for the captured; Madison’s team got three and Tom’s team the other two.”

    “That seems rather easy,” she replied.

    “They weren’t expecting us,” he replied. “Madison and Tom report that the men were shocked that we were here. We confirmed that there were only twelve in the assault.”

    “So that leaves the five in the Student lounge,” stated Ally.

    “We’re surrounding the building as we speak, they’re not going anywhere,” stated Steve. “Jackson’s already in position.”

    “They have three hostages,” noted Carol as she looked on the monitor. A hidden surveillance camera allowed the agents to see inside the lounge. “I can’t make out who they are.”

    Steve nodded. “We’ll get them out…I promise.”

    “Steve, Max Bowie is out the main gate with rest of his security team,” said Tom over the headset. 

    “We’ll be there shortly in the MCU,” said Steve.

    The MCU pulled up in front of the foundation. Roy lowered the bollards and the wrecked truck was moved out of the way.

    Max walked up to Steve and Ally.

    “Where do you want me?” he asked.

    “Have your people sweep the foundation grounds and move any of the staff and students to safety,” said Steve. “There are five suspects with three hostages in the Lounge. We’ve neutralized the rest.”

    Max nodded.

    “Max, great job on the security upgrades,” said Ally.

    “Thanks,” he replied. “Roy, Sam, you come with me. Let’s go get our girls.”

Chapter 93

    Shawn looked outside and saw no one moving.

    “No one else is reporting in,” said Shawn barely fighting back panic. “Who the fuck is out there? This can’t be the work of some security guards.”

    One of the men was guarding Dana, Rachel, and Susan. The three girls were on the floor, Dana and Rachel had their backs against the wall and the unconscious Susan was lying between them.

    “I don’t know…but we need to get out of here…fast,” said Gregory. He was trying to stay calm, but it was difficult. He had walked into a trap and it would take all his skill to escape.

    “We have three hostages,” noted Morgan pointing at the girls. “I say we line them up in front of us and walk out of here.”

    “You idiot…we wouldn’t get ten feet,” said Shawn. “Whoever is out there is very good. They wiped out over half our team without breaking a sweat. They also are very well armed…did you recognize the sound of the shot that took out Travis?”

    “It was a rifle…big fuckin’ deal,” said Morgan as he wiped sweat off his brow.

    “It was a Barrett…a fifty cal sniper rifle…the best there is,” said Shawn. “Hell, they could hit us in here with it if they wanted to…it could punch through these walls like a hot knife through butter.”

    Morgan waved his hand dismissively. “Bullshit…they wouldn’t risk it. You’ve watched too many movies!”

    He walked slowly towards the front door.

    Morgan probably never even felt the shot that struck him in the chest. He was dead before he hit the ground.

    The rest of Gregory’s men dropped down to the ground.

    “How the fuck did they pull that off?” asked Shawn.

    Gregory looked up at the ceiling. “They must have cameras in here…audio too…looks like your recon missed that too... whoever’s in charge out there took out Morgan on purpose to send us a message.”

    He had to admire the warped sense of humor of whoever had ordered Morgan shot…it was something he would have done when he was in the army.

    “Do you really think they have monitoring equipment in here?” asked Shawn.

    There was then the sound of a phone ringing.

    Gregory nodded, stood up, walked over and picked up the phone.

    “Yes?” he asked.

    “Gregory Sanders…yes, we know who you are, we have you surrounded. You only have four men left, we took out the rest. We also found your getaway vehicles. Put your weapons down and walk out with your hands up.”

    “Who are you?” asked Gregory.

    “This is The Agency,” replied Steve. “You’re surrounded by our Spec-Ops Teams.”

    Gregory felt a cold chill run through his body. He knew their reputation. They were experts and were not known for negotiating.

    “You know that I have hostages,” countered Gregory.

    “Yes, that is true and it is the only reason why we’re talking. If you hurt any more of the hostages…it will be the last thing you ever do. I hope that the girl isn’t hurt too bad,” replied Steve coldly.

    Gregory looked at his remaining men and realized it was a hopeless situation. He had hostages, but he wasn’t the type to hide behind a couple of girls…besides, where would they go? What bothered him most was that they knew who he was. That meant that they had to know about Lisa…and also the clinic in Mexico.

    He looked at the three girls on the floor. The one that Morgan had assaulted was still unconscious and she was now lying in the lap of the tall one. He looked at her as if she looked familiar.

    Then he glanced at the other men. They would be facing long sentences...still it was better than dying. Gregory also realized that he had one last card to play.

    “I have information…information that you want,” said Gregory. “In exchange for it, I want reduced sentences for me and my men.”

    “That will depend on the information,” said Steve.

    Gregory let out a long breath. “You obviously know why we’re here…and who we’re working for. The men here were following my orders and I owe it to them to get the best deal possible.”

    “We can talk reduced charges…after you’re in custody. I want the girls…and if the injured one dies you will face capital charges.”

    “She’s just unconscious,” said Gregory as he looked at the girls. The other two glared back at him with pure hatred. Again the tall one looked familiar. “Your men killed the one who hurt her.”

    “There’s no way out, Sanders,” said Steve.

    “Give me a few minutes to talk to my men…without you listening,” said Gregory.

    “You have five minutes,” said Steve.

Chapter 94

    “What do you think?” asked Ally.

    “Sanders knows it’s hopeless,” said Steve. “I suspect he will offer us info on Lisa Henderson in exchange for reduced charges. He knows that we can file kidnapping charges against him for every student and faculty member present. I just hope that his men listen to him. If they don’t, we’ll have to take them out.”

    “What about the hostages? Can you zoom the camera in on them?” asked Ally.

    Steve nodded.

    They watched the monitor.

    “Oh my god, that’s Dana Rawlings,” said Ally. “Pan to the right.”

    Steve let out a curse. “Rachel Green.”

    “And the third?” asked Carol.

    “I’m not sure…I can’t see her face very well…but that could be Susan Jefferson…she’s the last known victim of Margo Simon,” said Ally. “We have to get them out…we owe them that.”

    “We will Ally,” said Steve.

    “Do you think she’s hurt badly?” asked Ally as she looked at the monitor.

    “From what we picked up, one of their men beat her up…we’re not sure why,” said Steve.

    “Which one?” asked Ally as she panned the camera to look at the surviving attackers.

    “The dead one,” replied Steve.

    ****

    “So there’s no way out?” asked Shawn.

    “No…these guys are real tough bastards…they’re more like Special Forces than cops…they won’t hesitate to shoot us. I figure if I offer them Lisa we can have the charges lowered,” said Gregory. “I’m sorry, but it’s the best I can think of.”

    “So what are we looking at?” asked Shawn.

    “Twenty to life…at a minimum,” said Gregory. “The alternative is life without parole…and if we do shoot it out and kill any of them…it will be the needle. We’d be tried in a Federal Court and they have a faster due process.”

    Shawn nodded. “Okay…sounds simple to me…we sell out the bitch.”

    The other two men nodded nervously. They weren’t looking forward to prison…but they weren’t ready to die either.

    Gregory looked up at the ceiling and pointed to the phone.

    It rang once and he picked it up.

    “Okay, how do you want to do this?” asked Gregory.

    “Set your weapons down…walk out one by one…hands on your heads…and once you’re outside drop to your knees. If anyone deviates from this…well you know what will happen.”

    “Okay, we’ll follow your orders,” replied Gregory.

Chapter 95

    Ally called The Director and briefed him on the operation.

    “All twelve of the assault team are accounted for; three dead, the rest are in custody. Gregory Sanders is talking to Steve as we speak about the Mexican clinic,” she said.

    “And the staff and students?” he asked.

    “Only one was injured…Susan Jefferson…she was assaulted by one of the men. Apparently she clipped him and allowed several of the other girls to escape.”

    “Well, done,” replied The Director. “What’s her condition?”

    “She’s being transferred to the hospital. She has a broken nose and most likely a severe concussion. The EMTs feel she’ll need surgery, but she should make a full recovery.”

    “Good,” he replied.

    “Dana Rawlings and Rachel Green also acted pretty heroically. They sacrificed themselves so that the other girls could get into the safe room. Thankfully they’re both okay.” 

    “Anything else?”

    “Max’s security guards did well. Roy Seward took out one at the front gate. The others ensured the rest of the staff and students were safe.”

    “Roy’s always been a tough SOB,” said The Director.

    “I’ll have a full report for you shortly,” said Ally. “Of course…there’s still Lisa Henderson.”

    “I’m aware of that,” he replied. “Call me when Steve is finished with his interrogation.”

Chapter 96

    Gregory sat across from Steve.

    They were using one of the Foundation’s conference rooms as an interrogation room.

    “When were you supposed to report back to Lisa about the raid?” asked Steve.

    “I told her that it might be twenty-four hours…she’s rather preoccupied these days,” said Gregory.

    He then told Steve about Matt Francis.

    “Any others in her clutches?” asked Steve.

    Gregory shook his head.

    “No, that’s what this raid was all about. Tell me, how did you figure it out?” asked Gregory

    Steve smiled back. “Sorry…can’t tell you trade secrets.”

    Gregory nodded wearily. “Of course, at least tell me one thing…what’s your background…Green Beret?”

    “SEAL,” he replied.

    “Figures, I knew you had to have some sort of Special Forces background…the way you took out my team…very professional,” replied Gregory.

    Steve nodded. “Your team was careless…if we didn’t need them for questioning we could have wasted them all…very easily. It would have saved our government a lot of money.”

    Gregory nodded wearily. “You’re right…we took the mission too lightly. We didn’t expect the guards to fight back…we didn’t expect the added security equipment and we certainly didn’t expect the girls to fight back…by the way who was the tall one…the one we had hostage?”

    “Why?” asked Steve.

    “She was pretty brave…she stood up to one of my guards…she also looks familiar…I just can’t place her face.”

    “She’s Dana Rawlings…the one you used to advertize your process.”

    Gregory let out a sigh. “Of course…I knew we made a mistake doing that…karma is a bitch…isn’t it?”

    Steve grinned back. “We got your jets too.”

    “They were going to be distractions. At the last moment we changed the plan to take the girls to the coast and put them aboard a ship.”

    “We’ll need the details on that ship.”

“So what else do you want?” asked Gregory.

    “Layout of the clinic…number of guards…what they’re armed with…everything.”

    “Fine…can you get me a cup of tea first? Cream and sugar…no lemon.”

    Steve nodded and called in one of the guards.

Chapter 97

    Ally arrived at the hospital with Carol and Celeste. Dana and Rachel were already there waiting to see Susan.

    After a round of hugs, Ally asked about Susan.

    “The doctors say she’ll be fine…but they want to keep her here for observations,” said Dana. “We want to be here as soon as we’re allowed in to see her.”

    “I know that will make her feel better,” said Celeste. “I’m so sorry that this happened to you.”

    Dana and Rachel nodded.

    “Is there anything I can do for you?” asked Celeste.

    Dana looked at Rachel, who nodded.

    “Can you bring Susan’s parents here? She really needs to see them,” said Dana.

    Celeste nodded. “I’ll see what I can do…maybe you can help Ally…you once helped some stubborn parents to see the light.”

    “I was only fifty percent successful,” replied Ally. “But I will see what I can do. Give me the info.”

Chapter 98

    Ally ran into Steve back at the Foundation. He had just finished his interrogation of Gregory and the others.

    “Sanders was rather cooperative,” he said. “Polite too.”

    “Good, I like my criminals well-mannered,” stated Ally sarcastically. “So what are you going to do with the info?”

    Steve looked at his watch. “I’ll be in San Diego in a five hours and Baja a couple hours later.” 

    “You’re going to miss the beer bash,” said Ally.

    Steve nodded. “It’ll be worth it. I’ll see you when I get back.”

    “Okay…but I want to hear everything…and by the way…great job tonight.”

    Steve smiled back at her. “You did pretty good yourself.”

    Ally stopped by for a quick beer with the Spec-Ops team…it was a post operation tradition to have a cold one. The agents were pleased to see her as they considered Ally to be an honorary member of their team. Ally made her way to each agent, thanking them personally for their night’s work.

She was also pleased to see Max Bowie. He was drinking a beer next to Tom and Madison.

    “Max, you feel like a little trip with me?” she asked.

    “I don’t know…Faith might get jealous.”

    Ally laughed. “I’m a happily married woman.”

    “So what do you need?” he asked.

    She told him about Susan’s family. “I could use a little support.”

    “I would be honored to go with you.”

    “Thank you. Oh, I hope you don’t mind but we have to make a quick stop in DC to see The Director,” said Ally.

    “I don’t mind,” replied Max.

Chapter 99

    “Relax Ally, Steve will get her…he always does,” said Max as he leaned back in the seat of the private jet.

    “I know he will…I just wish I was there…I hate standing on the sidelines,” she replied. She looked over at Carol, who was sleeping in the seat next to her.

    “It goes with the territory,” he replied. “Your agents did a great job back there…almost a perfect operation.”

    “We got lucky…the opposition took us lightly,” she replied.

    “That’s part of it,” he stated.

    “What…luck?”

    Max nodded. “Of course; planning and expertise is important…but never underestimate luck.”

    “Well, I’m just relived that Susan is okay,” she replied.

    “I would have loved to have seen her tackle of that thug…that was pretty gutsy.”

    Ally nodded.

    “So what are you going to say to the parents?” asked Max.

    “I don’t know…but Susan needs them…and they need to see their child.”

    “Not every parent is understanding about these sorts of things. Diana’s birth parents never really accepted her gender,” said Max.

    “Yes, but Susan wasn’t transgendered…she was a regular kid who was abducted and abused,” replied Ally.

    “Isn’t her family military?” asked Max.

    Ally nodded. “From what I read they’ve served in every war this country has been in…Susan’s father is a career officer in the Air Force. However, that isn’t a good excuse and you know it.”

    “Air Force? I thought you said he was in the military?” asked Max with a grin.

    Ally shook her head. “Sorry, I’m too tied for that sort of humor right now.”

    “When was the last time you slept?”

    “I have no idea…I’m too keyed up to sleep right now. I hope that I don’t make a fool of myself when we get to Tampa.”

    Max nodded. “Well, just be yourself…you’ll do fine…and I’ll back you up.”

    “Thanks Max.”

Chapter 100

    An agent met Ally and the others at the airport and drove them to the Jefferson’s house near McDill AFB just outside Tampa.

    “What’s the father’s rank?” asked Max.

    Ally flipped open her notebook. “Mike Jefferson, Colonel, currently in a staff position, the mother, Nina, works as a bank manager.”

    “Any brothers or sisters?” asked Carol.

    “Three, two brothers, one sister, all older. Both brothers are in the military, one is in the Rangers and the other is in the Air Force Academy. The sister is married and lives in Austin.”

      “And none of them have visited Susan?” asked Carol.

    Ally nodded.

    Carol shook her head in disgust.

    “Okay, this is the address,” said the driver. “I’ll wait out here, Agent Burns.”

    “Thank you,” she replied.

    Ally, Carol, and Max walked up to the front door of the large ranch home.

    Col. Mike Jefferson met them at the front door and escorted them inside. He was dressed in civilian clothes.

    “Please sit down,” he said politely.

    “Thank you,” replied Ally. “You know why we’re here.”

    Mike sat down next to Nina and they both nodded.

    “Your child needs you,” said Ally.

    “I know this may sound cold…but our child died,” said Mike.

    “No…no she didn’t, she’s currently up in a hospital in Connecticut,” stated Ally. She fought to keep from losing her temper as she had little tolerance for parents who abandoned their children.

    Mike’s face was suddenly filled with dread.

    Nina’s eyes opened wide. “Why? What happened?”

    Ally told them about the raid and what Susan had done.

“Your daughter…Susan risked her life to save five others; she was almost killed,” stated Max.

“I think she deserves to see her parents,” added Carol.

Both Mike and Nina were now crying as they hugged each other.

    “We’ve meant to go up…but it’s been so hard…when David disappeared…it shattered us….eventually we accepted he was gone…and then we were told that David was alive…but he was now a…a female….it was too much,” said Nina.

    “And how do you think Susan feels?” asked Ally softly. “She’s been through a living hell…and she needs her parents and her family back in her life. Go up and see her…you owe her that much. If you don’t go…you’ll regret it the rest of your lives.”

    Mike and Nina both nodded.

    “We can fly you up tonight,” continued Ally.

    Mike looked at Nina who nodded as she wiped away her tears.

    “I’ll have to check with my command,” said Mike.

    “It’ll be taken care of,” said Ally as she pulled out her phone. She then looked at Nina. “I’ll call your boss too if you’d like.”

    Nina nodded.

    Thirty minutes later they were driving to the airport.

    “What’s your connection to all this Agent Burns?” asked Mike.

    “I used to be in charge of the department that hunted down the woman that abducted your child,” replied Ally. “I’ve taken a personal interest in all the people that Margo Simon hurt. What’s amazing is that so many of her victims have rebounded to achieve great things…but it’s easier for them when they have their family along for support. You have no idea how much this will help your child recover.”

Chapter 101

    Ally sat next to Carol on the flight back up to Connecticut. Max slept soundly in the seat across from them.

    “I thought you we were going to try and sleep,” said Carol. “You did a wonderful thing back there…but now you need to get some sleep.”

    “I’m waiting to hear from Steve,” she replied wearily as she rubbed her temples. “God, I’m so tired that the caffeine isn’t working any more.”

    “Then go to sleep. If he calls, I’ll wake you up…now close your eyes,” ordered Carol. She then leaned over and kissed Ally on the cheek. She then adjusted Ally’s seat so that it reclined down. “I love you.”

    “I love you too,” replied Ally as she yawned, a moment later she was sound asleep.

    Carol got up quietly and moved next to the Jeffersons. They were seated together and were holding hands.

    “Nervous?” asked Carol.

    They nodded.

    “I don’t know what to say…I mean… we should have come up months ago,” said Mike.  “How do we explain that…what do we say?”

    “Start with I love you,” replied Carol.

    Mike nodded. He then looked over at Ally. “When we were told that The Assistant Director was coming to speak to us…we expected someone…um older…how did she get the position?”

    “She earned it. Ally basically created The Agency’s internet sex crime department from scratch. Unfortunately she was injured in the line of duty and was forced off field work. She was the top pick to become the Assistant Director.”

    ‘If you don’t mind us asking, how was she injured?” asked Nina.

    Carol told them about Margo Simon.

    “My god….I remember hearing about Simon being killed…I had no idea about the rest,” said Nina.

    “Oh, and don’t get any ideas that it a charity promotion…The Director doesn’t believe in that,” stated Carol. “Ally earned it.”

    “She definitely seems dedicated,” said Nina.

    “I’m glad she is…I’m glad she came down to talk to us,” stated Mike. “How soon will we be there?”

    “I’ll check with the pilot,” said Carol.

Chapter 102

    Neither Mike nor Nina said a word on the drive to the hospital. They just sat quietly holding hands. 

They also stayed silent as they followed Ally and Carol up to Susan’s room.

    “Here we are,” said Ally. “Good luck.”

    Mike and Nina nodded and Ally watched as they entered Susan’s room.

    Susan sat up in bed and stared at her parents squinting through two black eyes. Even though her face was bandaged from her injuries she broke out in a huge smile.

     “Mom! Dad! You came!” she squealed in delight. “You really came!”

Nina opened her mouth but nothing came out…she stood in the doorway for a moment before rushing over and began hugging her child. Mike did the same thing. All three were sobbing from joy as Ally slipped out the door.

    “It looks like it worked out this time,” said Carol.

    Ally nodded.

    “Come on, let’s go,” said Carol.

    They had just reached their car when Ally’s phone went off; it was The Director.

    “Ally, I’m sorry…but I need you back here immediately,” he said.

    “Yes, Sir…um, is this about the clinic in Mexico?”

    “Yes, come right to my office,” he said.

Chapter 103

    Ally sat down at the conference room that was connected to The Director’s office.

    She was relieved to see Steve there as she was worried that something might have happened to him. She noticed that Steve looked as if he hadn’t slept in days.

    “Thank you for getting back here so quickly,” said The Director.

    “What happened in Mexico?” asked Ally.

    “We briefed the Mexican authorities about the clinic and they agreed to immediately raid it…unfortunately someone tipped off the cartel personnel,” said Steve wearily. “When we arrived the clinic was on fire.”

    “What about Lisa Henderson and her captive?” asked Ally anxiously.

    Steve shook his head slowly. “We found several bodies in the rubble…dental records have confirmed one is Lisa Henderson and another is Matt Francis…the missing teen. We suspect the other bodies were employees. It looks like they were executed by the guards and the fire was set to cover it up.”

    “Damnit,” cursed Ally and she hit the table with her fist.

    “There was nothing we could do, Ally. They just killed everyone there so there would be no witnesses.”

    “I know,” she replied. “I just hate the fact that an innocent life was lost. Have we informed the family?”

    The Director nodded.

    “And what did we tell them?” asked Ally wearily.

    “We told them that their son was abducted and murdered,” stated The Director. “We explained it was a failed kidnapping. We said that the cartel guards were tipped off and killed Henderson and their son.”

    “Did you tell them that the kidnapper was a perverted psychotic bitch who was mutilating their child’s body?”  asked Ally bitterly.

    “Would that have served any purpose?” replied The Director softly. “Ally, I don’t like lying to anyone, especially grieving parents …but there are times when the full truth only causes more pain.”

    Ally nodded. “I suppose that’s best… I mean what good would it do if Matt’s family knew what was done to him…it doesn’t change the fact that he’s dead. Damn; there are times when I hate my job.”

    “Trust me Ally, no one is happy about what happened…the only good thing that came out of this mess was that the lab was completely destroyed. Apparently the cartel guards didn’t know about the mind control process,” said Steve.

    Ally nodded again.

    “Ally, We’re not downplaying the death of Matt Francis, but at least we have stopped the use of the mind control process developed by Dr. Liang,” said The Director.

    “Are we sure?” asked Ally.

    “Reasonably,” replied The Director. “We’ve accounted for everyone that we know about….yes, I know that there could be others who know the process…we will have to continue to be vigilant.”

    “It never ends does it?” asked Ally wearily.

    “No…and that’s why I have people like you and Steve working for me,” replied The Director.

    Ally nodded. “What about the raid on the Foundation?”

    “The Public Relations Department is working with the press,” replied The Director. “While we can’t tell them everything, there’s no need to hide what happened.”

    “Have you discussed this with Celeste?” asked Ally.

    “Yes, and her people are cooperating with the press. Your old friend Harrison Keller is working with her as we speak.”

    “The three jets that Sanders mentioned are being returned to their rightful owners,” said Ally as she flipped through her notebook. “The insurance companies are very happy that we recovered them.”

    “What about the ship?” asked Steve.

    “The Coast Guard impounded it off Long Island and they have the crew in custody,” she replied. “It will take a while to sort through the paperwork to determine who actually owns it. There were documents showing it was flagged in three different countries. Apparently it was modified for immigrant smuggling.”

    “That’s Homeland Security’s problem now,” said The Director. “Do you have anything else Ally?”

    She shook her head.  “That’s all for now.”

    “Well, I have something for you…I want you to take a few days off. That’s not a suggestion…it’s an order. Also, I want you and Carol to take a real vacation…you’ve earned it,” he stated.

    Ally nodded.

    “No argument?” he asked.

    Ally shook her head. “None…thank you Sir, I know we did all we could…I’m just a sore loser.”

    “That’s what I admire about you, Ally. We’ll talk when you get back,” he said. “Agent Williams and I have a few things to discuss.”

    She stood up and left.

Chapter 104

    Nancy was pleasantly surprised how quickly everything returned to normal at the Foundation in the aftermath of the raid and the subsequent media circus.

    The girls proved to be very resilient. Maybe it was because many of them had been though so much that the raid didn’t seem like a big deal. Still they had scheduled additional group and private counseling sessions.

    She was also pleased that several of the girls were planning a thank you dinner for the security guards.

    Another good thing that came out of the raid was that many of the girls’ parents were visiting more often.

    Susan was now out of the hospital and in addition to visits by her parents; her siblings had also scheduled visits. The reconnection with her family was just what the doctor ordered and Susan was making a fast recovery.

    Nancy arrived at her office for her normal meeting with Dana.

    Dana arrived on time and sat down in the large chair by the window.

    “How’re you doing today?” asked Nancy.

    “Good,” she replied.

    Nancy smiled. “Care to elaborate?”

    Dana nodded.”I’m still trying to absorb everything that happened. I mean, I thought the worse was behind me before I got here…I never thought that someone would try to abduct us…again.”

    Nancy listened quietly.

    “I am relieved how the raid was broken up,” continued Dana. “And I’m very pleased how Susan is back with her family.”

    “Anything else?”

    Dana nodded. “I’m glad that the people who changed me are either dead or in jail. I have closure now.”

    “And what about your feelings on the media, have they changed?”

    Dana smiled. “You know about that too?”

    “Celeste told me,” replied Nancy.

    “Mr. Keller has offered me an internship with their news department” said Dana.

    “Are you going to do it?”

    “Maybe…I still have some things to work out here…before I think about a career. Mr. Keller said that the position will be there for me…whenever I’m ready.”

    “And how do you feel about working for a former tormentor?”

    “I’ve thought about that…I’ve talked to Jen and Diana about it too. They seem to think that it would be a great opportunity and it would help me make up my mind. I do want to write…and I think I can make a difference.”

    “Well, you don’t have to make up your mind today,” said Nancy.

    Dana nodded.

    “There’s something I’ve wanted to ask you…did you know that the leader of the group was the man who originally abducted you?”

    “No…I never saw any of the people who changed me. I was just so angry that they had violated this place…I was also furious that they hurt Susan…I wasn’t going to show fear. If I had known…I don’t know what I would have done.”

    “I guess it’s good that you didn’t know.”

    Dana nodded again.

    “So what will happen to them?” asked Dana.

    “From what I’ve been told they will be in prison for a very long time…I don’t think we need to worry about them.”

    “That’s good to hear,” said Dana. “Oh, change of subject…can I have a weekend pass? Rachel and I want to go to Boston for the weekend. Her friend Ken will be with us.”

    “Sure, that sounds fine…just fill out the request. Oh, I have some news for you. Next month you’ll be taking a little trip down to DC.”

    “What for?” asked Dana.

    “Ally Burns wants to thank you, Rachel and Susan for what you did during the raid.”

    “In Washington?” asked Dana.

    Nancy nodded.

    “Cool. Have you told the others yet?”

    “You’re the first; in fact I’m seeing Rachel right after you leave,” she said.

    “Cool,” replied Dana.

    “I have a few more things that we need to discuss,” continued Nancy.

    Dana nodded.

    “Dr. Browning wants to see you for a full physical this week,” said Nancy. “She wants to see how the hormones are affecting your body.”

    “Obviously my breasts are still growing,” said Dana.

    “And how do you feel about that?”

    Dana hesitated as she thought about it. “I wonder how much larger they’re going to get…but they’re not my only concern…my body still seems…um, how to put this…foreign to me at times. I accept that I have to live as a female…but it still feels weird…if that makes sense.”

    “It does…I would be worried about you if you didn’t feel this way. Do you still want to have SRS?”

    “Yes,” replied Dana. “I don’t want to stay in between…if you know what I mean. Not having a sex drive feels so empty.”

    Nancy nodded.

    “The only good thing about this is that it makes losing Jessica easier…I mean I understand why she broke up with me…and I don’t even mind that she’s dating my old editor…but what I do mind is that I don’t have someone in my life…and right now…in my current physical state it would be difficult to find another woman.”

    Nancy smiled.

    “What?” asked Dana.

    “You said another woman.”

    Dana nodded.

    “Dana, you still have a long road ahead of you…but I’m so pleased how far you’ve progressed…and I will be here to help you…as your doctor and as your friend.”

    “Thank you,” replied Dana. “That means a lot to me.”

Chapter 105

    “Can I bring my Mom to DC?” asked Rachel.

    “Of course,” replied Nancy. “In fact, Ally insisted on it.

    “Cool, I want my Mom to meet Dana and Susan,” said Rachel. “I know now what it’s like to have sisters.”

    “Your friendship has helped all of you,” said Nancy.

 “I was so frightened when Susan was hurt by that thug…I hate to say this…but I’m glad he was killed. What will happen to the rest of them?”

“They’ll be in prison for a very long time.”

Rachel nodded. “Not that I’m complaining…but I really don’t think that we did anything all that special…I mean we did what anyone else would have done.”

“Don’t sell yourself short Rachel. The three of you could have easily run directly into the safe room and no one would have thought anything of it. I think what you three did was extremely brave and I’m very proud of you.”

Rachel smiled at Nancy. “Thank you…that means a lot to me…coming from you. Um, I have a question for you; how difficult would it be for me to become a therapist?”

“It wouldn’t be that difficult…you’re just a few credits shy of your undergrad degree…and you had excellent grades…but I thought you wanted to be a marine biologist.”

“I did…but I would like to help others…do you think that I could get a job here?’

“That could be arranged,” replied Nancy.

Rachel nodded. “I guess it was seeing how you and the staff helped all the girls after the raid…it made me think about what is important in life…I also want to give back to this place.”

“I’ll make an appointment for you with our academic advisor.”

“I know money won’t be an object…thanks to the Max Prendergast scholarship fund,” she replied with a laugh. “I look forward to spending his money.”

Chapter 106

    The following month, Dana, Rachel, and Susan and their families were the guests of The Agency in the nation’s capital.

    A rejuvenated Ally Burns met them at their hotel.

    “I’m happy that you were all able to come here,” she said. “I know you have a lot of things you want to see and do, but we do have a small bit of official business to take care of. I would like you all to join me for lunch today,” said Ally.

    The girls and their families all agreed.

    “Where are we going?” asked Jon Rawlings.

    “It’s a surprise…but it’s a very exclusive place,” replied Ally with a grin.

    A short time later they were being escorted into one of the conference rooms at The Agency. It was set up for what looked like a formal luncheon.

    “I can’t believe we’re here,” whispered Rachel to Dana.

    Dana nodded. She was also in shock.

    The girls and their families were pleasantly surprised when Celeste Farnsworth walked into the room with The Director.

    “I’m sorry that I can’t join you for lunch, but I have a small presentation to make before I depart,” he said.

    He turned to Ally who walked up to him. She was holding three official looking folders.

    “Rachel, Dana, and Susan, would please join us?” said Ally.

    The three friends walked up together.

    Ally then read a commendation from The Agency.

    “It’s a small token of thanks for your bravery,” said The Director as he handed them the commendation and shook their hands.

    He then posed for photos before departing.

    Ally smiled as she saw the pride in the faces of the families. The girls were in shock and it took them a while to realize what had happened.

    “That was priceless,” said Celeste as she watched the families celebrating.

    “I know,” replied Ally. “It reminded me of a similar presentation a few years ago.”

    Celeste nodded. “This worked out better. I’m so happy that Susan has her family back in her life.”

    “Oh, Carol and I were wondering if you would like to have dinner with us this evening,” said Ally.

    “I’d love that…thank you very much. Thank you again for everything you’ve done.”

    “It’s things like this that make it all worthwhile,” said Ally.

    “So, no more crisis of conscience concerning your career?” asked Celeste.

    Ally smiled back at her. “No, not anymore. What else has Carol been talking to you about?”

    Celeste just grinned. “I figure it’s just payback for everything you’ve done for me.”

Chapter 107

    In addition to Celeste, Ally invited Steve and Maggie over to dinner.

    “That was very thoughtful of The Director,” said Celeste.

    They were all sitting around the kitchen table having dessert.

    “I’m just sorry that the raid took place,” said Ally. “I hated using the Foundation as bait.”

    “I know that Ally,” said Celeste. “However, the security system worked like a charm. Max is looking at additional ways to improve it. Jen Stevens’ idea to use the cover of turning the lounge into a movie theater let us install the safe room without making it known what was actually being built. She was glad to donate the equipment for the theater too.”

    “Any trouble with the neighbors?” asked Steve as he got up to make another pot of coffee.

    Celeste shook her head.  “Surprisingly no.  Maybe it’s because we’re one of the bigger employers in the area and because we support the local businesses…but maybe because they’ve grown used to us.”

    “It doesn’t hurt that Roy and the other guards all live in the area,” said Maggie.

    Celeste nodded. “Roy has become quite the local celebrity…he’s going to be honored at next year’s Fourth of July Parade.”

    “I’m sure he’ll love that,” said Steve.

    “Oh, I have some good news,” stated Celeste. “Rachel Greene wants to be a therapist.”

    “That’s wonderful,” said Steve.

    “It gets better…I placed a few calls and it looks like she’ll be accepted at Penn,” continued Celeste.

    “Who did you call?” asked Carol.

    “The Dean…but Rachel has the grades to get in on her own.”

    “That’s great…will she be staying in your building?” asked Maggie.

    Celeste nodded. “The room next door to Jirra Reid just opened up.”

    “Well, I know Beth will be happy to have another friend in the building,” said Maggie.

    “Have they met yet?”  asked Carol.

    “Not in person, but she knows all about Rachel thanks to her cousin Ken,” said Steve.

    “That’s great…what about Susan and Dana?” asked Ally.

    “Susan has a lot of catching up to do both academically and socially so she’ll be at the foundation for a while,” said Celeste.

    “And Dana?” asked Carol.

    “She’s making great progress. I think the fact that she doesn’t have to worry about the people who changed her anymore was the key,” said Celeste.  “She has started writing again too.”

    “I’m glad to hear that,” said Ally.

    “Well, we have an announcement to make too,” said Carol. “We’re taking an actual vacation next week.”

    “How did you manage that?” asked Steve as he grinned at Ally. “She’s worse than me for taking time off.”

    “The Director ordered her to take some time off,” stated Carol. “And no one is as bad as you Steve.”

    “I’ll drink to that!” stated Maggie as she held up her coffee mug.

    Steve did a mock bow and then he filled her coffee mug.

    “Any one else need a refill?”

    Ally, Carol, and Celeste all nodded.

    “So where are you going?” asked Celeste.

    “Caldera de Gaia Spa,” said Ally.  “It was hard to get in at such short notice…but thankfully we have connections.”

    “You’ll have a wonderful time out there,” said Celeste.

    “We’re really looking forward to it,” said Ally.

Conclusion

    A week later Celeste walked across the grounds of the foundation with Spirit by her side. As always, Spirit attracted a crowd of girls.

    Nancy walked over and smiled.

    “How’re you doing Celeste?”

    “Fine,” she replied. She looked at the crowd of girls and motioned to Susan. “Would you mind looking after Spirit while I talk with Nancy?”

    Susan grinned. “I’d love to…thank you Ms. Farnsworth.”

    “We’ll be back in few minutes,” said Celeste.

    “We’ll be right here,” said Susan and she and the other girls sat down on the lawn next to a very happy Spirit.

    “That settles it…we need to get some animals here,” said Celeste.

    “I’ve already talked to the local shelter about adopting,” said Nancy. “In fact, I’d like to try a pilot program and have some of the girls train assistance dogs.”

    “Sounds like a wonderful idea,” said Celeste.

    “So, what’s on your mind?” asked Nancy.

    “I just wanted to see how things were going,” replied Celeste.

    “Things couldn’t be better. Oh, Max needs to see you…he has a few new ideas to upgrade the security system.”

    “Of course, I wish it wasn’t necessary, but I suppose it’s better to be safe than sorry,” said Celeste. “Oh, is Rachel around?”

    “I can get her, what’s up?”

    “I just wanted to let her know that she’s been accepted at Penn,” said Celeste.

    “That’s wonderful,” replied Nancy. “If this keeps up you should start a sorority there.”

    Celeste laughed. “I’ll think about it. Anything going on that I should be aware of?”

    Nancy nodded. “Dana is going to start a weekly newsletter. She’s already recruited several other students and staff to contribute articles.”

    “I’m glad to hear that,” said Celeste as she looked over at Spirit playing with the girls.

    “You really did something wonderful here Celeste,” said Nancy.

    “Thank you,” replied Celeste. “Well, I need to get going or I’ll be stuck in traffic. I’ll call you when I get back down to Philly.”

    Nancy leaned over and gave her a nice long hug.

    ***

    Out in New Mexico Ally and Carol were walking over to the mud baths.

    “I can’t believe how relaxing these mud baths are,” said Ally. “My shoulder hasn’t felt this good in a long time.”

    “They are nice,” replied Carol.

    “I can’t believe that Jen Stevens gave us her cottage for the week,” continued Ally.

    “I suspect that Celeste had a hand in this,” said Carol.

    “I’m glad that Jen also gave us access to her wine cellar. She doesn’t have much for wine but it’s all first class.”

    “We’ll have to send her a few bottles to add to her collection. I think I know just what she’d like.”

    Ally nodded. “I’m so glad that we came out here…I must thank The Director for ordering me to take a vacation.”

    “I have to thank him too,” added Carol.

    Ally smiled at her and reached over and extended her hand. Carol took it and they walked down the path to the mud baths together.

The End
(For Now)

Julieverse Characters
Max Bowie – Private detective and sometimes agent for the Agency. Married to Faith Collins in the 1980s and for all practical purposes is Diana’s father. (Corruption, Double Jeopardy, Band of Sisters)
    Ally Burns – Federal agent and head of The Agency’s Internet crime department, recruited to The Agency by Carol Martin. Ally has recently undergone SRS and lives with Carol and their cat Bogie in the Washington DC area. (The Protector Series, Combined Forces)
    Dr. Nancy Chen- Originally a therapist for The Agency, she left to work at The Farnsworth Foundation. – (Combined Forces, Celestial Awakenings)
    Celeste Farnsworth – Originally Jeremy Green; was abducted and feminized by Margo Simon. Celeste was then sold to Sherman Farnsworth, a self-made millionaire.  Instead of using her as a sex slave, Celeste became his wife. Sherman died of a heart attack and Celeste used his wealth to create a foundation for abused transgendered teens. (Combined Forces, Celestial Awakenings, Coeds)
    Rachel Greene- Born Richard Greene, he was abducted, transformed, and brainwashed by Max Prendergast, his old high school theater coach. Her transformation was further assisted by Heidi Walsh. Rachel’s best friend in school, Ken Marcus helped track her down and she was rescued by The Agency. Ken Marcus’s uncle is Steve Williams. (Mentor)
    Jean Logan – Born Gene Logan, he was transformed in to the gorgeous Jean Logan by a mysterious vigilante organization. Jean was conditioned to work as a high price escort. The women most responsible for Jean’s transformation were Dr. Leala Zachariah and Dr. Jun Liang, both of whom are currently serving life sentences in Super Max prisons. Jean has undergone deprogramming and no longer works as an escort. She currently is dating Agent Matt Walsh. (Vengeance is Bittersweet)
    Margo Simon- A sick twisted sociopath and those are her good points. Her sex slave business was broken up by Ally Burns. Sentenced to multiple life sentences in a Super Max prison, escaped and was shot and killed by Ally Burns. (Combined Forces, The Protector Series)
    Tom, Madison, Joe, & Jackson- Members of Steve Williams’ elite Strike Force. (Protector Series)
     Cathleen and Michelle- Cathleen is the Agencies top computer field agent. Michelle runs the Agency’s research department (Protector Series)
Nina Vasquez – Former marine and police officer in Virginia, currently works for the Boudicca Detective Company. (Double Jeopardy, Coeds)
    Beth Williams- While serving in the navy, LT Ben Carlson was transformed into a teenage girl by Dr. Martz, through a DNA process. Beth was adopted by two federal agents, Maggie and Steve Williams. Beth has also served as an agent, although she is now currently a fulltime student.  Beth is currently dating a fellow Penn student named Jim Buchwalter. (Change of Course I-IV, Combined Forces, The Protector Series, Coeds)
    Steve Williams- One of the top agents at the federal law enforcement organization called The Agency, a hybrid of the FBI and CIA. Recruited from the US Navy SEALs, Steve currently works out of the Spec-Ops department and runs the tactical strike teams. His wife is Maggie who is also an agent. They have two children, Beth their adopted daughter and their son Steve Jr. (Change of Course and Protector Series)
Special Guest
Jennifer “Jen” Stevens – Born Robert Stevens. Transformed by a lightning strike over a period of about three weeks while unconscious in the hospital. Her transformation was leaked to the public during her hospital stay. Jen left her old job and became a successful TV and movie star and is now producing movies. Substitute hosts the “Around Midnight” talk show. A friend and mentor to Jirra Reid after meeting her a few months after her transformation. Long time friend of Alexis Eden after meeting her while Jen was hosting the talk show. Jen Stevens adventures are chronicled in Bob Arnold’s Zapped! series and she is used here with his permission.

References
http://www.secureusa.net/Bollards.asp

http://world.guns.ru/assault/as17-e.htm

http://www.barrettrifles.com/