Cats Paw Part two...

The fuzz in my head cleared slowly. Somehow I was outside, in an alley behind the Garfield Museum. The first thing I noticed were the red and blue lights bouncing in crazy patterns on the brick walls. As my eyes focused, I saw both a worried EMT and the scowling face of Captain Don Winslow. The soft glow of his ever present Laramie limned his chiseled face.

"Have you EVER heard of backup? You know, like assistance?" asked Winslow, frustration evident on his face.

"Well captain, I have considered it, but the laws have regulations that make it hard to have a teenage sidekick--things like child labor laws, curfews, delinquencies and so forth."

His scowl loosened one notch and he continued. "My guys are pretty efficient Owl. In fact, I don't think I would need the SCU to stop a simple Cat Burglar." He sized me up again. "Though one who could do that to you might be a bit more than they bargained for."

I glanced down at the tattered rags that had once been my costume. The once pristine white Nu Silk had been stained red with my blood and underneath the tatters I could see and feel the deep scratches healing and retreating. "At least she left me a shred of dignity," I said. "Though my tailor is going to have a fit."

"Feeling better?" asked Winslow, the compassion coming back into his voice. I nodded.

"Good. Maybe you can explain this, then." He shone his flashlight on the side of the museum and I read, "Keep Back and consider yourself lucky! PP"

"We had some guys thinking it was gang related," apologized Winslow. "But its too literate for that."

I sank back against the debris, the cold brick rough against my exposed back. "It's the Pink Pussycat," I said. "She's taking a friendship of mine far too personally. I think it's time for me to Scat this cat--hopefully into your cells."

"The Pink Pussycat?" several officers snickered. "I'll bet she's terrific!" I heard.

"Knock it off you dopes, we got ladies present!" growled Winslow and the catcalls died down. He turned back to me.

"You OK?"

"I should be," I replied.

"I can have someone drive you home. You aren't really dressed for flying, you know."

"I looked at my costume and frowned again. "I have spares. Honestly, I'll be all right."

Winslow thought a minute, then said, "Wait." He rummaged in the backseat of his car and produced a blue and gold SCU sweatshirt. "Here, it may be a bit big though."

"How thoughtful! I'll bring it back soon Captain!" I pulled the dark fleece over my head and smiled as it fell to my thighs. I looked up and grinned.

"Look! I'm a squad car!" That brought a smile to Winslow's face.

"Well as long as you're making wisecracks, I know you're all right."

But I wasn't. I'd been taken like a raw rookie by a cunning burglar with jealousy issues. What's more, I remembered Val saying that she had a partner and I completely glossed over it. I got home and dropped the shredded costume into a bag for Mr Wickersham. I was certain he'd want to study the shredding to see if there were any way to improve Nu Silk.

I showered and stood in front of my full length mirror, studying the scratches. They were almost gone, a testament to my healing factor. That there was still evidence of those cuts indicated the ferocity and depth of the Pink Pussycat's attack. I stepped into my spare costume, smoothing away the wrinkles and frowned. I desperately wanted to call Val and pick his brain; but I didn't much feel like hearing "I told you so."

The same feelings applied to using the Guild's resources to track down the crazy cat lady. Val would know. I risked losing the man I loved all because I was to confident in my own abilities and underestimated my opponent.

Or maybe not. A plot suddenly filled my head--a method for drawing out the Pink Pussycat, and I wouldn't have to tell Val about my initial failure.

The next night, I found the Guild teleporter on the rooftop of STAR labs. Working quickly I reset the controls from the Guildhall to Bayport. A moment later, the incredible skyline of the big city on the ocean shined in front of me.

"Athena?" Virgil was incredulous as I stepped into his bachelor digs atop the Coleman Foundation.

"I don't think I was very receptive the other night Virgil," I said. "So I'd like to make it up." My hands were working on the buttons of his shirt, peeling it back and exposing that gorgeous scarlet and gold outfit.

I stepped to his balcony and winked coyly at him. "Care to patrol Bayport with me?"

Moments later, we flew past the Bayport theater district and then over the Bayport commons. In both places, shrieked excitedly and pointed. I was flying close to Val and hugging him tightly, carrying on like a teenager in love. But when we flew past the Bayport Daily Globe, I leaned in even closer and drew him to me. We hovered in place, kissing as if we were the only two people in the world. Beneath us I could see the flashes of cameras, and heard the whirring of the motors.

I could tell Val was amused, but he didn't say anything until we wound up in the master bedroom at his penthouse.

"All right, what was that about?" he demanded.

I scrunched down under the covers and pulled the feather comforter over my face, hiding the smile. "Not telling." I said.

"Oh yes you are," said Virgil, grabbing my bare foot and tickling it ever so gently....

"AHHHHH!!! HA HA STOP!!" I shrieked. "I'll tell! I'll tell!!" Tears were rolling down my face.

I caught my breath, then said, "I wanted to announce our love to the world. I don't think we should be secret anymore!"

"Is that it?" he asked, seriously.

"Yes! Why else would I do it? I want to prove you don't have to watch over me twenty-four, seven. I'm a big girl and a big heroine, and I love you Virgil Coleman! Why shouldn't the world know that?"

He sighed and settled back next to me, cradling me under his arm. I stroked the soft hair on his chest, wondering how the next bit of my plan would work out.

To be continued...`

Cat's Paw

After a long and frustrating day at the museum center rebuilding an entire Hopewell burial mound construct, all I really wanted to do was put my feet up on the couch and relax with my favorite comfort foods and music. So I got off my bus three blocks early and wandered into the Goldline Chili in my neighborhood.

Even though I'm a part owner of the chain, for some reason this store never had an inkling who I was. I used it for quality control checks and secret shopping. Alex thought it was a great idea and approved it. Anyhow, I ordered my food and walked the three blocks home with my order in one hand and a large diet Zesti in the other. The smell of the chili was overpowering and though I was footsore, I hurried home and up the five flights of stairs to my "penthouse" apartment.

Daisy met me at the door, yowling and hungry, impatiently racing me to the kitchen. She slithered in between my legs as I opened the can of cat food and set it on her plate. Daisy sniffed the dish daintily, then buried her pink nose into the "Super Supper." I smiled, stroking her back and watching it arch as she purred and fed. "Enjoy, kitty," I said, grabbing the gold and blue bag and slipping to the sofa. I kicked my pumps across the room, then opened the Styrofoam box where the cheese coneys sat in all their gooey glory. I took a sip of the diet Zesti, then clutched the nearest bun. The combination of chili, hot dog, onion, mustard and cheese was almost intoxicating, especially as I hadn't eaten since breakfast. I downed the first coney without even thinking.

I was reaching for the second coney when I heard a knock at my door. My Patio door. As in, I'm five floors up and only have one entrance to the street, and it's not the patio. I figured it could only be one person. Grumbling, I get to my feet and open the door. "Virgil Coleman," I scolded. "I have a secret identity that I care about protecting, even if you don't!" Virgil brushed his blond hair back out of his eyes and grinned at me over his glasses.

"Things were really slow in Bayport tonight, so I buzzed over to Queen City to see my best gal," he said by way of explanation. "And I move too quickly for most radar, so I don't think your neighbors are going to see anything." He moved his lean, muscular frame into my living room and sat on the couch.

"There's more to this than you're telling, Virgil," I said. "Slow night or not, Captain Valiant just doesn't up and fly to Queen City for no reason."

He sighed, then pulled out a copy of a national tabloid, The National Blade. The front cover had a well enhanced telephoto picture under the headline, "A Heroic Affair." Up until now, there had been rumors, but no evidence. This photo however had been taken three weeks earlier as we left the Guildhall. Captain Valiant and White Owl, in mid-flight, kissing (and not chastely, I hasten to add).

"So we're official," I said. "But that's hardly a reason for you to come. After all, Virgil, we've been dating for months; so there's nothing to connect you and me to Captain Valiant and White Owl."

He hesitated. I'd never seen him so uncertain of himself before. "It's not Athena I'm worried about; it's White Owl. I'm darn near invulnerable, Athena. There isn't much that can harm me. But my friends. That's a different matter. Now that people know we're an item, they'll attempt to hurt you to hurt me."

"Oh come on now, Virgil, that's ridiculous and you know it. I CHOSE to be a superheroine--and was chosen too, I might add. I think YOU told me danger was my business. Besides, didn't we have this conversation before I left for Egypt?"

"And look how that turned out," he retorted. "Some crazed madman with superpowers tied to kill you."

"And I survived and got away," I said. "We handled it. And it's not like I haven't faced some dangerous people on my own."

"You have, but when it comes to my villains, you're in another league. My villains are worldbeaters, Athena, and they're deadly.

"You mean like Frosty Fred? I seem to recall saving you that time."

Virgil scowled. "Fred's an exception. You have some low powered enemies too, I believe."

I smiled. Even though I was upset with his overprotective behavior, I couldn't STAY angry. After all, how many women have the world's most powerful protector as a boyfriend? Every woman wants a shining knight; very few have them as shiny as Captain Valiant.

"OK," I said. "Truce. I'm flattered by your devotion to my protection. But I think I can handle most of your crowd, and if not, there's the Guild, right?"

He nodded. Then he reached into his pocket and pulled out his Blackberry. "Here, take a look at my gallery."

"You collect pictures of your enemies?" I asked.

"Know your foe," he smiled. "Besides, what does the man who has everything collect?" I took his phone and thumbed through the list. Doctor Solar, Plague, Frosty Fred, the Buffoon (he seems to show up on everyone's list) Megiddo, the Astronomer, Stonewall, the Baffler...My finger paused at an image of a woman in a pink leotard.

"Pink Pussycat?" I asked.

"She's ah...well...a cat burglar I'd guess. But she's more. She commits some outrageous robberies, and executes some even more audacious escapes. But she's also has a crush on me."

"My rival for your affections?" I asked with a hint of a smile.

"Not hardly. I think she's in love with the costume, and really doesn't care for the man inside. I'm nothing more to her than another shiny bauble. But she's convinced we're fated to be together, and her crimes seem designed to pull me to her. She's actually defeated me once or twice, threatening to destroy parts of Bayport if I didn't give myself to her."

"Did you?" Now he had my curiosity.

"No, both times I was able to figure out an elegant solution, and escape. But usually SHE got away too. Other than that photo, I have no idea who she is, Athena. But she's been quiet for a long time now. I think she's laying low."

I nestled into his arms, and kissed him gently. "Well, I thank you for the lessons Virgil. But I think I need to get some rest. It was a long day today, and I think tomorrow may be as bad."

"Can I spend the night?" he asked.

"I said I needed to rest, remember?" Virgil laughed

"You can't blame a guy for trying," he said.

I kissed his nose, and said, "Good night." He smiled and a split second later, he was gone.

I slept comfortably that night and woke the next morning dressed for a work day at home. The day consisted of writing and I was going stir-crazy. I decided to patrol as White Owl for a while.

I flew downtown, overflying the Garfield museum. Though it wasn't a part of the city's museum center, the Garfield had a remarkable collection of late Egyptian antiquities, and I'd spent some time with the curator there as Athena. But I noticed the open skylight. I dove through the open space and landed near an older, balding guard, who was just sitting up.

"Are you all right?" I asked.

"I think so--she moved so quickly!" he said. Then he added, "Hey! You're White Owl! My name's Wendell."

I nodded."Yes I am. Pleased to meet you Wendell. What was taken?"

He did a quick look around the room."Cat mummies."

"WHAT?" I asked, incredulous. "Cat mummies?"

"And the Opal of Bubastis."

I mouthed a silent "O".

"Did you see who did this?"

Wendell nodded and said, "Yes. It was her." He pointed over my shoulder and I whirled.

A blond woman in a pink suit stood there, juggling a cat mummy.

"Catch" she said, heaving the cat at me.

I stretched and caught the cat, then heard the snap of a leather whip snaking through the air. The whip snapped tight around my wrists, causing me to drop the statue. The Pussycat pulled the lash and I tipped off balance.

"It will take more than a whip to stop me, Pussycat."

"Like this? NOW WENDELL!!" I felt a hand clamp down on my face.

"MMMPPHHH" Wendell's fist slammed into my stomach and I gasped for breath. The chloroform on the rag over my nose burned my throat, and I felt my legs trembling. I struggled against the whip and the chloroform but it was no avail. My knees buckled and I dropped to the floor.

"I'll teach you to steal my man," was the last thing I heard as all went black...

To be continued...

A Gilded Death

It was nearing ten in the morning that Wednesday when I stepped off the bus and entered the revolving doors of the Queen City Museum of Natural History. The museum was open but that early, it was filled only with senior citizens and a couple of school groups. I breathed in the smell of the exhibits. It was good to be home after my recent dig in Egypt. I was looking forward to getting the pieces from the temple of Khem Adam on display, as well as publishing the journal from the dig.
From across the large foyer I heard, "Athena! There you are!!" I looked up to a blur of motion and suddenly found myself wrapped in the tight grip of Cassidy Yeats, the museum's director of fine arts. Cassidy stands about 5'1" tall, and is almost elfin in appearance. This morning, her hair was a bright shade of blue found no where in nature. She was dressed in a plaid skirt with a white blouse and dark green vest. Pale white hose and buckle shoes completed the ensemble.
"I'm so glad you're back. You have to tell me how you escaped Chatterjee this time," she said, squeezing my ribcage. I remembered I had to play injured and weary traveler.
"Cassidy! I'm still a little sore from the fire," I said, and I felt the hug growing less intense. I drew a deep breath and smiled. Cassidy stepped back and looked me over. "Still no fashion sense I see."
I looked down at my khaki pants and dark blue scoop neck blouse. "What's wrong with this?" I asked.
"Never mind," she said. "We're going out for lunch!"
"Now?" I protested. "It's just now ten in the morning, I just got back from an extended dig, and I'm sure there are piles of notices and work that Director Chatterjee wants me to get on," I did my best impression, "Immmmmediately if you please."
Cassidy burst into laughter. "Oh you're so precious. But you can't POSSIBLY start on all that work without being well fortified. As to Chatterjee, you put him off for eight weeks, I don't think another few hours is going to matter. In fact, when did you tell him you'd be in?"
"Today," I said and Cassidy cut me off.
"Exactly--but you didn't say when, now did you?" She took my arm and I soon found myself in her Miata driving down to the Four Trees restaurant. "Your treat," Cassidy said. "I fly, you buy."
We spent three hours and $75 on food and drink and story telling. Cassidy listened intently as I explained about the dig and the explosion, her green eyes twinkling in rapt attention. But then she started.
"Do you have anything in black and white? I know you do, I've seen that cute little white body suit you wear sometimes. Match that with a dark jacket and slacks, you'll be fine."
"This sounds like an opening. How did you get funds for that?"
Cassidy smiled. "The art collection received a grant from the Cafazzo Foundation for the purpose of promoting new artists. I found a local named Piotr Mailun who's opening his show tonight at the museum center. You have to come Athena, its a $500 dinner and grand opening.
"Whoa there girl, that's a bit steep," I said.
"You're comped! Museum policy. And Chatterjee thought having you there might double the sales of the artists book and yours." Suddenly the reason for the morning ambush became clear.
"All right, but it's your show Cassidy. I'm just going to be along the wall."
The show opened at seven, two hours after the museum closed. I arrived early this time, dressed in my little black dress. Cassidy was a buzzing bee, directing the caterers, and making sure the final polish was added. I looked, but saw the gallery door was closed, no doubt building the anticipation for the grand opening.
To Cassidy's side I saw a large, powerfully built man. He seemed ill at ease in his coat and tee shirt combination, as if he seldom dressed up. He had a full head of thick hair and a matching mustache. Cassidy buzzed over to me and smiled. "Athena Nikos, Piotr Mailun."
"How do you do?" I said, extending my hand. Mailun looked at it and growled. "Hiya."
"All set?" asked Cassidy, perhaps sensing the tension building up. The doors were opened and the upper crust set of Queen City swarmed into the museum center, finding seats and listening to the brief remarks of both Ajay Chatterjee and Harmon Hollett, the director of the Cafazzo Foundation. Cassidy stepped to the podium, then pulled the mike free and squeezed around to the front.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to introduce to you a new vision in art. Mr Mailun is a local artist, graduating from Sylvania High School five years ago. Though he's never had formal training, his art has been hailed in both New York and San Francisco. But this is his first formal showing, and we're pleased to offer it here at the Queen City Museum of Natural History. Please enjoy the artistic visions of Mr Piotr Mailun. With a dramatic flair, Cassidy swung open the gallery door and I saw a collection of bumpers, hub caps and aluminum cans in an interesting mixture of motion and stability.
****
"Abstract yes, but it was almost laughable to call it art. It seemed more like someone had taken the contents of a salvage yard and welded them together haphazardly. The artist flew into a rage when members of the audience began questioning his vision" The write up in the Herald-Dispatch was brutal and the projected crowds for the weekend failed to appear.
****
Saturday afternoon I ran into Cassidy in the employee lounge. Her head was buried in her hands. "I don't understand Athena. His art is good!"
"I'm not sure, Cassidy. Maybe the audiences here aren't into such avant-garde art."
"But you liked it, didn't you?"
"It was...interesting." Cassidy began sobbing.
"I knew it, you thought it was ugly too!"
"I didn't say that, but I'm not much into abstracts. I like classical forms, I think it goes with the title of archaeologist."
Cassidy snuffled and looked up at me. "Are you sure?"
"Yes Cassidy, I'm sure."
*****
Sunday afternoons I try to enjoy a few pleasures--a walk, football on the television, reading the Sunday Herald-Dispatch. This particular Sunday though, had been filled with church (and the monthly potluck--yum) then some time visiting my parent's graves and a long walk. I heard the score of the Cobras game; another heartbreaking loss in the last minute as Rick Pettingill fumbled on the goalline, allowing Hub City to recover and score. So it wasn't until late that I climbed into bed and read the paper.
I flashed through the news, noting things that might need White Owl, then scanned the comics, the fine arts and the endless supply of ads and coupons. Finally, I skimmed through the ads until I found this one.
ATTENTION WHITE OWL
Local artist seeks Superheroine to pose for commission
No nudity. $500 an hour for charity of choice.
Contact Mailun @ Studio on Fox and Broome.
Offer expires in six days.
I folded the paper and scratched Daisy between her ears. She purred loudly and adjusted her chin for further attention down low. While I petted the cat, I contemplated the offer. I was almost certain it had to be a trap. Still, until I had further information, I was reserving the final judgement.
I spent a few hours at the computer, studying everything I could find in the public record about Piotr Mailun. He seemed to be a relatively clean artist. But he was known for the abstracts he made, not statuary. This seemed to be a new venture for him. The google views of his art were not always flattering, but I could see the raw passion and vision of his art. He had talent; he just wasn't very good at expressing it.
I pulled the back door on the police files, and studied the record there to see that Mailun had never even so much as had a ticket for loitering. I nodded in approval, knowing my estimation of the man had gone up at that point.
Daisy mreowed, and I realized she needed some cat food. Looking up, I saw it was late. I put a can of food out for the cat, then slipped into the NuSilk, feeling an urge for an on site investigation first. I swept out of the apartment's balcony and into the dark night sky.
Fox and Broome is an insignificant corner near the rail yards and closed slaughterhouses in the west end of town. The buildings are old and dilapidated, but still serviceable and rents are cheap. I looked up the street and saw a large dark sedan stopping at a street corner, under the light. From the shadows, a man stepped up with a large handful of cash. He stepped up to the car and the passenger door opened. A man in a dark suit stepped from the car and walked to the rear of the car, where he opened the trunk. From my vantage point I could see the gleam of black gunmetal on the pistols.
I dove into the corner and caught the buyer by his jacket collar. With a strong swing I threw him into the lamp post, where he crumpled, unconscious to the ground. The seller called out "Holy..." and ran for the door. I heard the motor race and the car began to accelerate.
"Not so fast," I said, grabbing the back bumper of the car and digging in. My muscles screamed as I lifted, and the wheels spun uselessly off the ground. A bullet shot out the back of the car--passing by with a deadly speed.
"Well if that's the way you feel," I said dropping the car. The high acceleration sent the Caddy careening down Broome to the wall at the end of the short block. The car crashed and I flew up, to drag the unconscious salesmen from their airbags and bring them back to their buyer. I bent the torn lamp post around the men and smiled. It had been a good night so far.
Mailun seemed to inhabit a two story building, with an upper level given for residence and a lower level with a deep garage where his studio stood. The back of the building was given over to what looked like a junkyard. I stood watch for a good thirty minutes, ensuring there was no more criminal activity going on. It seemed safe and quiet.
I found a tall window on the side of the building, and noticing the light was still on, I slipped through. "Knock Knock!" I called out.
Mailun looked out from under a welding mask and smiled. "White Owl! I wasn't sure you would see my ad, but I'm so glad you came! I just came into a big inheritance, and can well afford to pay you." He may have looked unkempt, but he was polite and soft spoken, and I felt more at ease around him.
"I've done my research Mr Mailun, and I know you're an abstract artist, not a sculptor as such."
"It's true," he agreed. "I can't sculpt humans at all, I do much better with pieces of junk in new forms. But I had a commission come in from a fan of yours. They wanted a life sized sculpture of you."
"And how did you propose to fulfill that?" I asked, curious.
"Are you familiar with life masks?" he began. I nodded and Mailun continued, "Well I want to make a casting of you. Basically I'll pour a modeling compound over you, then after it begins to harden, I crack the shell, and let you out. I'll press the two halves together and have a perfect image to pour full of plaster, making a perfect life-sized sculpture of you. Once the plaster hardens, then my sponsor will have his perfect image."
"I'll be honest Mr Mailun, I have my doubts. The mobiles are really neat, but this seems so...well, out of your realm."
"But it works! Look!" He whistled and a beagle trotted into the room; his tail wagging excitedly. "This is Bridger, my dog," he explained. "Now take a look at this!" With a showman's flourish, he pulled a cloth from a sculpture and a full scale plaster Bridger stared back at me.
"See," said Mailun. "Bridger here posed once, and here's the mold I used." I saw a gold polymer shell, split and rejoined in Bridger's image. Holes for his nose were in place, allowing the dog to breathe while Mailun waited for the compound to harden.
"How long does it take?" I asked, realizing I was about to give consent.
"Bridger was in the mold for two hours. Unfortunately the compound takes some time to harden. But I can pay well. To the Children's Hospital, right?" I nodded.
"All right, I'll pose for you Mr Mailun. When would you like to start?"
"We can start now, if you'd like. If you'd step over here?" He led me to a clear spot on the floor, and I saw a scaffolding with several plastic buckets above. Mailun handed me two long straws (so I could breathe) and I inserted them into my nose.
"Find a pose that's comfortable White Owl," Mailun said jovially as he climbed the ladder. I stood with my hands at my side, in a relaxed pose.
"Are you ready?" he asked and I nodded. A warm, sticky plastic began pouring from above me, splashing on my boots and thighs. Despite it's warmth, the liquid chilled me and I shivered. "Stand still please," I heard from above. "You're a very lovely subject and I'd hate to mar that because you moved."
"This will take a while to harden," he reminded me.
"It's OK, I'm free the rest of the night," I said. Mailun worked quickly, and in a few minutes I was covered head to toe in a thick, gooey, glistening past. And to my shock, it was hard quickly, curing in contact with my body's heat. I panicked and then calmed myself shouting to Mailun, "YOU LIED TO ME!"
"Anything for art," came the terse reply. I tried to respond but the compound had solidified around my lips and all I could manage was a stifled MMmmpph!! I could still breathe, but Mailun took the straws from my nose and laughed. Thankfully though, the compound hadn't covered my nostrils. I pressed against the sides of the molding, but I couldn't muster the leverage to crack through the molding compound. I was hoping that Mailun was reaching for the mallet and chisel to break me free.
Instead, I could feel his footsteps around me. I could make out his words, "Stunning, absolutely exquisite. I can't believe I created this."
I heard the ringing of a delivery bell and shuddered. Who could be calling this late at night. I knew it couldn't be good news for me. "We're here to pick up our...sculpture," said a thick gravely voice. I heard another, high pitched giggle. Obviously there was more going on here than a love smitten artist.
"She is not for sale," I heard Mailun say. "She's my masterpiece and I'll never sell..." A pistol barked and I heard Mailun drop in front of me.
Gravel voice said, "Nice shootin' Ham. Now we gotta work fast, because you've let the neighborhood know."
"Aw can it Monk," came the giggler's reply. "He was tryin' to cross us, and no one crosses Boss Saint."
Saint? Since the downfall of Giovanni Cafazzo, the Saint gang had become the undisputed leader of organized crime in Queen City. I had no doubt Saint was behind the gun sale I broke up earlier. But despite the best efforts of the QCPD, they were too entrenched to be easily rousted.
The leader of the Saint mob was an unknown. I mean we knew he existed, but his identity was a complete mystery. The police profiles indicated he was someone well known in the community; but despite the best efforts of the police or myself, no one had ever gotten close.
I felt myself being tilted back and the sensation of motion. I was being hand trucked somewhere. I felt myself being set down and heard the slamming of the van doors. "I don't see why we didn't just plug her here," whined Ham. "All this expense coulda been spent on bullets."
"You dummy," growled Monk. "Killin' masks outright is bad for business--an' difficult too. Bullets generally don't work on heroes. Ya gotta be clever an' show some...what is it the boss called it? Panache! Besides, a dead heroine brings the cops and the other heroes down. But a MISSIN' one. Well, they can't PROVE we had anythin' to do with it."
The van rumbled through a dark and quiet city. Through unseeing eyes, I tried to visualize my surroundings but without some reference point, it was an exercise in futility. I was literally in the dark. But when I was wheeled off the van, I could feel the rock of water underneath me and I realized I was on a boat.
"Well done, gentlemen," said a quiet voice.
"It was nothin' boss," said Monk. My blood ran cold underneath my Owl shaped sarcophagus. Boss Saint was within inches of me. But I couldn't see him, and I railed. My arms were stiff from pressing and I KNEW the molding compound had to be breakable, I'd seen the evidence myself at Mailun's studio. In my frustration I almost missed Saint's next words.
"This woman has been a royal pain. Cast off, and when we get to Suttler's Bend, we'll be rid of White Owl forever." A cold sweat broke over my encased form. I wasn't sure from which marina we'd started, but Suttler's Bend was no more than two hours from any point in Queen City by river. I tried once more to expand and break the modeling compound, but my arms were almost leaden from the hour of pressure I had already attempted.
"Get her out of my sight," I heard Boss Saint say. "Take White Owl up on deck. She should have a last look at her beloved Queen City, don't you think?"
"But, Boss?" asked Monk. "She can't see nothin. How is that gonna help?"
"It means I won't have to look at her you moron!" shouted Boss Saint.
I felt myself being tipped back and carried, awkwardly, up the gangway to the deck. I was set down, and heard Monk and Ham talking. "She's gonna get what she deserves, Monk."
"I don't think so, Ham," said Monk. "She may be gettin' what she deserves from the boss, but I owe her a few bruises from the time she took down the counterfeiting operation."
I remembered that night. Captain Winslow and his special crimes unit had needed a bit of extra backup, and I provided a silent air cover. I remembered one large bruiser trying to escape through a secret exit, and managed to nail him with one punch from above. If that was Monk, he may have indeed felt a need for retribution.
"Sheesh, it's freezin' up here," said Ham. "I'm goin' below until we get to Suttler's bend. You comin'?"
"I want to finish a cigarette. You know how the boss feels about that."
It grew silent around me, then I heard Monk's voice hissing in my ear. "He's gone little lady, we're all alone. And I was the laughing stock of the gang for weeks. They couldn't believe a little girl like you could take down Monk. So I owe you this."
I heard a heard thump against the front of the case, where my stomach rested. And I felt a jarring from the boot connecting with my ribcage. But the compound was solid and held. I heard Monk grunt in satisfaction, then felt one last jarring at my left arm, right about where I'd been stressing with my elbow. I pressed once more and winced in pain. Apparently Monk's foot had bruised my elbow.
But if his foot could cause bruising, then maybe...I moved my arm in the confined space and slammed the elbow back into the casing. The sparks up my arm nearly caused me to black out, but I heard the sound of crumbling. The casing COULD be broken. Hope sang in my heart and I ignored the pain, driving my elbow into the compound again.
Beneath my feet, I felt the change in the rumble of the motor, then silence as the boat drew to a stop. I had moments to act, or I was going to be submerged beneath the depths of the muddy Ohio. I tried to apply pressure to the side once more, to force open any opening I may have made. But I felt myself being lifted.
"On three..." said Ham. "One...Two...Three.." I felt the forward motion, then a splash and the sound changed around me. The case bobbed up once and I managed to break through the case at the elbow. But it didn't go unnoticed. As the golden sarcophagus bubbled under the water I heard the "SPIANG" of bullets ripping into the water. The casing sank into the river and I felt the water oozing through my newly made crack, expanding the hole and sinking me that much faster. But with my arm free, I was able to dig into my tool bag. I short second later, I had my rebreather in my mouth and the first gulps of pure oxygen reinvigorated my stressed muscles.
I flexed harder, able now to move a bit more freely and the modeling compound shattered. With powerful strokes I broke the surface of the water and drew a deep breath. With a swift eye, I took in the river scene. Three boats were still traveling slowly downriver, and I had no clue as to which one I had been on, except one. Monk.
I broke from the water and into the air. I closed in on the three boats, then heard a yelp. From the middle boat a body plunged into the river. I heard a cry for help and had to alter my course. A head bobbed up in the water and I recognized it as Monk.
"I should let him drown," I thought. But I sighed. Neither wisdom nor my Christian values would allow me to do that. I banked back and grabbed Monk's flailing arms. His bulk added dead weight to my flight, slowing me down. And I wasn't too happy with the way he leered at my appearance in a skintight watersoaked costume. I landed on the bank, about a half mile in and dropped Monk unceremoniously into a streetlamp. My zip cuffs pulled his wrists tight on either side and kept him in one place until Winslow showed up. It was a long wait, because my cell phone had gotten wet as well.
But Monk never revealed who Saint was, dying on the way to the jail--a victim of a time released poison. Winslow charged Monk with the murder of Mailun, with an earwitness account, and marked that case closed, even though we both knew better.
"Sometimes you just can't win them all Owl," was all Winslow said. I nodded sadly, knowing Mailun had died for no reason other than his art.
Cassidy was somber the next morning, her black skirt and vest brightened only by a deep purple satin blouse. "He's gone Athena!" she wailed. "He was going to be the biggest and best thing we'd promoted in the art galleries, and he's gone!"
I took her in my arms and comforted her. "I know, Cass. But he'll be remembered, though." She stifled a sob and pulled back.
"I did get a call from the Guggenheim today, though Athena. They want Piotr's works there, and offered a sizable check for purchase. It will go a long way to setting up an estate for him, and a scholarship at his high school."
"Then some good did come from it, just at a tragic cost." I said. "C'mon, Cassidy, let me buy you some coffee."

The End.

Dark Wisdom Part Five.

You'd think sand would be soft, maybe even warm; and not overly uncomfortable as it contours to your body. But in a dark cave, with a basalt floor beneath the sand was nothing but itchy. My nice satin sleep set had runs from the sands and the rough treatment Black Ibis had subjected me to. Moreover I was certain sand fleas were biting at my exposed skin. I kept shifting, but I was finding it difficult to get comfortable.

Heavy chains held my wrists and legs wide, and weren't doing much toward improving my comfort level. Every so often I would glance around my dim chamber, and examine the chains fastened to the cave walls. Three chains were set into heavy D rings mounted directly into the walls. The fourth was mounted on a metal post driven deep into the cave's floor. I studied the post and its ring, concluding it was too deeply set for me to break loose there.

But the three mounted to the cave wall looked equally looked equally strong. But as I studied the one over my right arm, I could see the stress lines in the wall, surrounding the link. They looked fresh, almost brand new. "It's been driven in," I thought. "With sheer brute strength--or Super Strength! Ibis! He couldn't resist showing off for his men."

Well two could play at that game. Black Ibis wasn't the only one with extraordinary strength. I looped the chain around my right hand, and gritted my teeth. I pulled, feeling the chain burning and tearing at my fingers. Grimacing I refused to loosen my grip. I pulled again, feeling the tension in my shoulders, the burning in my right arm muscles. I tried to brace with my feet but the sand only offered scant purchase.

"Pull Athena," I exhorted myself. Then it happened. I heard the 'chink' of metal moving against rock; almost like driving a piton. I relaxed a moment, then pulled again, and was rewarded with a "pop" as the D ring pulled free from the wall. I sprawled on the floor, resting a moment, catching my breath. Then I moved to my left wrist and pulled the manacle back, shattering the hinges. Within another three minutes I was free, the chains laying on the ground next to me. I was about to stand up when I heard the sound of footfall in the corridor.

"Has she been silent all this time?" I heard Black Ibis say, in flawless Egyptian.

"Yes Dark one, she still slumbers within."

"Then I think it's time to wake her. Her judgement before Thoth awaits." I played possum, clutching the free chain in my right hand. I knew that Black Ibis and I had similar powers, but where I had an ability to heal quickly; Black Ibis could read minds with a touch.

"Athena, my dear," I heard Black Ibis say, standing at the doorway to my cell. "It's time for you to have your heart weighed in the balance." I lay perfectly still, daring to hope Black Ibis wouldn't suspect my plan.

"You once refused my offer to become my bride, spurning my hand and nearly destroying me. Now only the land of Osiris awaits, the land to the west, my dear. Arise and prepare your heart for the journey of your ka." He moved closer, and nudged me with his boot.

I sat up rapidly, looping the chain tightly under his ankle and spilling Black Ibis onto the floor. My attack was so swift, he was off balance and toppled like a giant redwood. I dove on him, wrapping the chain tightly around his neck, cutting off his air supply.

"Let....me....go!" he gasped, his strength waning with each second. His hands tore at the chain but I refused to be dislodged. Black Ibis then realized he could fly and struggled to his feet, trying to fly and scrape me against the walls.

Holding tight to the chains with one hand, I reached into his toolbelt and found a small canister...his sleep gas. I sprayed it under his nose and was rewarded with a sudden gasp, then I felt Black Ibis falling to the ground. I waited until he stopped moving, then pulled the toolbelt from his waist. It was too large for my hips, but I buckled it over my shoulder.

I started by pulling his own handcuffs from his belt, and restrained his wrists tightly behind him. I added more sleep gas to a cloth I tore from my camisole and left it tight around his mouth and nose. Satisfied Ibis wasn't going to arise anytime soon, I took a quick inventory of his toolbelt.

He had many items that seemed to duplicate my own, but on the opposite side of the belt. I realized he was from a dark, yet almost mirrored dimension. I found his flashbang devices though and made my way to the front of my cell. The guards were sitting, almost eager for their boss to arrive. "Too easy," I thought. "But why not?"

I tossed one of Ibis's flash bombs into the mix, the combination of noise and phosphorus disorienting the Sons of Darkness and allowing me to slip past them and into the temple area.

I remembered the way out, and flew through the cave, hearing gunshots ricocheting behind me. I knew I had to get out, and keep them in.

I drew a heavy sigh, the temple was so magnificent, and I hated to do it. But as I neared the cave's entrance, I tossed one of Black Ibis's smoke bombs back at the Sons of Darkness. But instead of smoke, the grenade exploded, closing the mouth of the cave with a heavy boom. Shocked I flew back, but the rock debris was thick. I knew that the cavern had been deep though, and that the Sons looked capable of holding out for a while.

I flew out of the cave and into the canyon, looking for any sign of civilization I could find. I knew my presence in the desert would present more problems than I'd care to answer. Still I knew that could be dealt with as I came to it. But suddenly I was swept into the air, in a familiar embrace of gold and scarlet.

"Are you all right?" asked Val.

"Better now," I said. "What are you doing here?"

"You made the local news when the Stennet house exploded. So I couldn't accept you were dead, especially in light of your apartment fire. I've been looking for you since. And when Dr Mystik reported this explosion being reported on the Guild's satellite feed, I had to check it out."

"Why you? Wouldn't that go to the nearest hero?"

Val got that sheepish smile. "I was in Cairo. Someone had to come and I knew you weren't dead."

"Well in that cave are several very disgruntled Sons of Darkness, and Black Ibis." It was Captain Valiant's turn to look surprised.

"You managed to capture him on your own? And without weapons?"

"You told me it's what inside that makes us heroic, not the masks or suits or weapons. Sometimes its just being able to out think the villains."

Val nodded. "Let me take care of something, first here, Athena." He touched the signal device on his belt and spoke.

"Dr Mystik, this is Captain Valiant. Recovery is complete. Lock onto my signal and send Guild Task Force for cleanup." He turned back to me.

"Dr Mystik will be here shortly with a few other members for mop up. But we need to figure out some way to get YOU explained."

"How long have I been missing?" I asked.

"Only about a day. I think we can work with something here. There's a clinic in Cairo where I can take you as Virgil. They'll be more than willing to errr....alter their documents for me, since I'll make a sizable contribution to their operating costs."

So 24 hours later, Athena Nikos was discharged from the clinic and into the arms of Virgil Coleman. The thoughtful man had brought a change of wardrobe for me, and within 48 hours I was safely at the dig as planned. Dr Sahdi was gentle, but exacting and I threw myself into my work. The therapeutic value was good and I lost track of the time.

But about a week into the work, I felt my new Guild comlink tingle. "What is it?" I asked.

"Can you get away for about an hour?" asked Torrque. I nodded, and saw a golden glow forming around me. A scant moment later I was in the Guildhall, in Megametropolis. I headed into the locker area and quickly donned one of my costumes. A moment later I was in the science lab along with Scirocco, Captain Valiant and Dr Mystik. One of the Guild's transit pods was secure in the middle of the room.

"We know Black Ibis came from an alternate dimension," said Dr Mystik, her green eyes flashing. "And in the last week I've been trying to track it. I can now safely say I know where he comes from."

"But you can't send him back there Doctor," I said. "He's a predator and already a menace there."

"What happens on his world is his concern, White Owl," said Dr Mystik. "And as our world developed, so must his." She raised her arms and the dark green sleeves swirled over her head.

In a moment, Ibis screamed as a bright purple sphere filled his cell, then filled the room. When the light had cleared, the transit pod was empty.

"He's gone," I said. "Is he gone for good?"

"I believe so," said Dr Mystik. "I placed a ward on this planet. I don't think he'll be back ever again."

"I certainly hope so." I stretched and yawned. "I'm sorry but dawn hits early in the desert. I don't suppose you could zap me back?"

The End.

Dark Wisdom Part Four

I was hanging and swinging weakly over the shoulder of Dark Owl as we flew south from Cairo. As the city receded, I could see the glow of the sand on the desert beneath me and if I could cock my head, the sky was full of more stars than I could ever see in Queen City.

I could see the Nile reflecting the pale moonlight beneath us, and calculated we were heading south by southeast toward the Sudan. I wrestled with my restraints, but the handcuffs Black Ibis had used were mine, and had been test rated against some powerful villains.

We flew south and east for a while and from my own experiences flying and carrying, I figured we were well away from the city. The terrain slowly changed from desert to rocky cliffs, and I realized we were nearing an area that had sheltered bandits, guerrillas and outcasts for centuries. Its remote location and myriad caverns made it a fantastic place to hide things of value.

We entered a dark, winding canyon, and I saw the ground rising to meet us. Ibis shifted his positions and mine, and landed with a gentleness born of much practice near an unguarded cavern. To the east, the sky was glowing a dark red, as the faint beginnings of dawn heralded the arrival of another sun. "Take a good look, dear Athena. Tonight, you will follow the sun into the realm of Osiris. Only you won't be reborn, I'm afraid."

He placed a hand on my shoulder and tried to force me into the cave. I whirled on my heel and slammed him in the ribs with a whirling roundhouse. Black Ibis groaned, as my unexpected attack caught him by surprise. I planted my feet, flexed and leaped into the air. But as I attempted to fly, I heard a fast whir past my ear.

Another whirring sound buzzed past, then I felt a stabbing pain in my left thigh as Black Ibis hit home with one of his Shurriken. I winced, then felt three more tag me in my right shin, my waist and my shoulder. Trying to ignore the pain, I staggered in flight. But Black Ibis had one last trick; a large silver ball shot past me, then opened, revealing a net. I flew directly into the web, snagged by the heavy nylon. The net shot close around me, and Ibis reeled me in like a prize catch of fish.

"That was very foolish, my dear," he said. Leaving me in the mesh, Ibis dragged me deep into the dark cavern. As we slipped in, I could see the sun fading from view. We rounded one corner, and I saw the shadows of daylight playing on a retreating wall. Then a second corner and suddenly I was plunged into an eerie and complete darkness. My tail felt sore, from all the dragging on the harsh sand and rough rock of the cave. I lost count of the steps and the turns Ibis made, though how he could see was beyond me.

But on a wall in front of us, I saw a dancing light--flickering like a torch playing on a wall. We rounded that turn and the narrow passage opened into a large cave, one that looked like it had been altered by humans...

The walls were painted with scenes that would rival a Pharaoh's tomb. Despite the smoke from the braziers surrounding the room, the paint looked almost untouched. I ached, wishing I had my camera and my art tools. An undiscovered temple, and now in use by Black Ibis as a base. The walls were fantastic, the main wall, directly opposite of me was absolutely breathtaking. There was a large onyx statue of Thoth, holding a balance. In front was a large table or altar with bas relief images of Osiris and Anubis carved into the dark stone. Parts of the stone were darker than the normal shade, and I had to assume the most grisly events that had happened here.

Ibis dropped the bag in the center of the room. Suddenly I was surrounded by five men in dark, flowing robes, who began poking and prodding me. The net was removed, and I heard murmurs of appreciation as the men examined my nearly nude form. "Do not molest her!" I heard Black Ibis say, his voice full of command authority. The men retreated a step, though they still watched with wary and leering eyes.

"This woman is our guest, she will share bread, water and salt with us before she makes her journey." The men nodded silently, in agreement and I saw their demeanor change to obedience.

With shaky legs, I attempted to stand.

Ibis licked his lips greedily, then pointed at one of the men and said, "You, get bandages for her. The rest of you, take her to her chamber until we are ready to send her ka to the birthplace of the dawn. Be wary though, despite her size, she is more powerful than any of you."

Two men helped me to my feet. I stood up, feeling strength returning. One of the men said, "You are playing a joke on us Black One! This is a mere slip of a girl, how can she..." His sentence was never completed as I elbowed him in the ribs. I swivelled again, and kicked out at the other guard. He howled in pain as I connected in the center of his crotch, dropping his rifle. I then bowed at the waist, flipping the third into the fourth.

I turned to face Ibis, but was met instead with his powerful fist in my jaw. I crumpled to the floor. "Now maybe you'll believe me," Ibis said to his pained men. "Take her away, and chain her well, she's not to escape."

I came to my senses lying on a cold granite floor, with my arms and legs chained in a large X pattern to several rings mounted in the cave wall. My camisole was torn, but intact as were my panties. I pulled at the chains, wondering how strong the walls and chains were. Outside I could hear voices, but a large wooden door made it impossible to see who was out there. In the darkness of the cave I had lost all track of time, but I knew that if Daud had his way, my time on earth was running out.

(to be continued)

Dark Wisdom Part Three

The first thing I felt after deplaning was the oppressive heat. Despite the modernization Egypt developed in the twentieth century, no one had yet developed a way to ward off the bright sun near the equator.

I slipped into the terminal, grateful for the air conditioning and had my passport and visa thoroughly examined and stamped. "Have a pleasant stay, Dr Nikos," said the customs officer. I thanked him and made my way toward the taxi stand, dragging my suitcase behind me.

"Right this way, miss," said an eager, fez wearing man. He was middle aged, with hair going gray and wore loose robes with a dark vest. "I, Wali, have a very fine taxicab, very nice with air condition!" I allowed myself to be hustled into his slightly above disreputable vehicle. The cab smelled of cinnamon, sweat and pungent tobacco. But I had to admit, Wali was right about the air conditioning.

"Is nice, yes?" he asked holding the door for me and taking my suitcase. "Hey, where is the rest of your luggage. No American lady have just one for trip to Egypt."

"I sent it through about a week ago Wali. They're holding it for me at the Stennet house. Do you know it?" I could see Wali's eyes widen noticeably at this revelation.

"Stennet House? Is Cairo base for Dr Sahdi and his diggers! I am cousin to one. I get you there in good time!"

As we careened through the city toward the Stennet House, I saw graffiti on some of the walls. It looked suspiciously new. "Wali? Who or what are the Sons of Amon?"

Wali practically growled. "Please not to mention them in this cab again, lady, please? They are new militia band or gang or something, and they want headlines, and people to talk about them. If you never mention, they lose their powers, see?"

I nodded, and refrained from asking any more questions on that topic. Instead I clung to the ceiling strap as we rocked through the city. True to his word, the taxi fairly flew through the streets. I was certain that death for SOMEONE awaited us just around each corner, but somehow we arrived with all limbs intact. Wali brought the cab to an expert and sudden stop in front of the Stennet house.

I pushed out of the cab and studied my surroundings. Stennet House stood in an older, run down section of Cairo, but the hope of rich American and European scientists always attracted a small gathering of beggars. Across the way, I saw them and my heart went out. But Wali put a hand on my shoulder and said, "Come lady, is not always safe for women outside Stennet House. I shook my head and followed him into the courtyard; unaware of the sinister eyes watching from beneath a beggar's burnoose.

"So, you've regained your arrogance and confidence have you?" muttered the beggar behind me. "Well, you'll soon see how misplaced that confidence is..." The beggar crept stealthily away, and slipped quietly into the back seat of Wali's cab, unnoticed by me. From the dark shadows, another, similarly dressed slipped into his place.

I walked into the foyer of the Stennet House and was promptly greeted by Mohammed; the manager. "Dr Nikos, how wonderful it is to see you again," he said with a stiff Sandhurst accent. He cast a suspicious eye at Wali, but good manners prevailed and he said nothing about my companion. Mohammed turned back to me and said, "We sent your things up to the Aten room as you requested."

"Facing east," I confirmed.

"Indeed, though that room offers the poorest view of any in the house. Are you certain you will not reconsider?"

"No, I like that room fine. Consider it my lucky room." At Mohammed's signal, one of the servants took my suitcase from Wali and proceeded up the stairs. I turned to my cabbie and paid him, adding a generous tip.

"Thank you Wali," I said. "It was an adventure."

"Oh you are too kind by far lady! If you need ride in the future, call Wali--I know all good spots in Cairo." He gave a very informal bow and headed toward the door.

Mohammed couldn't stifle the haughty sniff. I smiled despite myself. "I keep forgetting how egalitarian your country is," Mohammed said. "But there's an order in Egypt that shouldn't be crossed. That man should have known better." Mohammed hummphed again and led me up the staircase to my room. His usual good mood and brisk efficiency had returned by the time he opened the door and handed me my key.

"Oh, there was also a message for you Dr Nikos," he said, handing me an envelope. I took it from Mohammed and he stepped back but his curiosity kept him close as I read the note.

"Nothing serious, one trusts?" he asked, fishing for information.

I smiled. "Not unless you think having a guest for an extra day is serious," I said. "The note just means I'll be taking advantage of your hospitality until Wednesday. Dr Sahdi can't spare anyone until then, it seems."

"Shall I alert the kitchen staff?"

"No need Mohammed. I can manage the tourist traps in the bazaar easily enough. And despite your wife's good cooking, I wouldn't want to put the whole staff to trouble just for me."

He nodded easily, relieved, I think. "Well if that's all for now, then. Dinner is at 8, dress is casual tonight." I thanked him and closed the door, then tossed my luggage to the floor and sprawled on the bed.

I woke with a start, my heart racing. For a moment I was disoriented, then I settled into the memories of where I was. I checked my wristwatch and saw it was 7 pm. I yawned, then slipped into a pair of loose jeans and a comfortable golf shirt, feeling that satisfied the "casual" requirement for dinner. Looking into the secret compartment of my suitcase, I sent a quick "check in" signal to the Guild, satisfying Val for a while. I ran a comb though my hair, trying to get it to sit properly. Satisfied I offered a glance out the window in my room, looking out at the backs of buildings around the Stennet House and watching the shadows growing longer.

I left the window open, allowing the air to circulate, then slipped downstairs for a warm meal. I ate sparingly, more from routine than from actual appetite. The bread was good and so was the lamb but I just was more tired than anything. I thanked Mohammed, then headed back upstairs.
My room was darkening, and Stennet House had not yet availed itself to air conditioning. I turned the ceiling fan on, then slipped into a camisole and panties for sleeping. I think I was asleep as soon as I hit the pillow.

I felt something against my mouth and tried to sit up but powerful arms restrained me. I bit down on the hand, only to find a thick cloth in my mouth. "No no, Athena, we mustn't bite, we mustn't scream," said a velvet voice to my left. I struggled, realizing I was in the grip of someone overly powerful. My eyes could nearly make out a human figure, and a flash of gold at the neckline told me it was someone I was deeply acquainted with.

"Bllk bbs?" I mumbled.

"Indeed, White Owl, I have returned from my exile. Where you trapped me. I've been waiting all this time, my dear. I plan to see you dead, just like my poor beloved, Intrepid."

All the time he spoke, I angled my body and slashed a sidekick at his thigh. He gave a soft laugh. "Would that stop YOU, Athena? I think not. So how could you possibly believe it could stop me?" He lifted a hand from my mouth and I was about to scream when he slammed the fist into my solar plexus.

"Unnnn" I groaned. My stomach contracted, and I gasped noiselessly trying to draw breath.

"You should thank me, Athena. I'm going to save you...for myself. I'm here to rescue you from the horrible destruction of the Stennet house." My eyes wouldn't focus, but I guess I glanced at him.

Ibis grabbed the back of my hair and slammed me out of bed, throwing me into the bureau across the room. I slid to the floor, struggling now to get up. Instead I felt his heavy boot in my back. "No, Athena, you're MINE!" he said. I shuddered, hearing the mania in his voice. Then I felt his hands tightly about my throat. I reached feebly, trying to pry his fingers from my windpipe, but as he squeezed more tightly, I felt all my own strength ebbing away.

He pushed my head forward again, dashing it against the knob of the bureau and I saw stars, then blackness.

I awoke face down on the floor of my room in the Stennet House, my arms fastened securely behind me. "Wha?" I began.

"Ahh good, you're awakening," said Ibis. "I hope you don't mind, but I took the advantage of binding you with your own handcuffs; the ones you use for the powered villains...like me?" He laughed quietly and hefted me to my feet. I struggled, but Ibis had a strong grip on my arm.

"I think I prefer you this way, Athena; as Doctor Nikos, and not White Owl. So I'm taking you this way, and no White Owl equipment this time." He dragged me to the window, then I felt us falling. Ibis then began flying away from city. Behind me, I heard the explosions. I managed to look over Ibis' shoulder and I saw the fire blazing where Stennet House had once stood.

To be continued...

Dark Wisdom Chapter Two

"Are you sure I can't get you there on Val Air?" Dressed in a designer Italian suit, drawing stares from some of the passersby, Virgil stood next to me at the concourse of the Queen City Airport.

"Not so loud," I hissed. "Do you want people to know?"

Virgil smiled, but dropped his tone just a little. "Know what Athena? No one here expects to see either of us here, especially in our civvies. It's a matter of perception. They see two young friends seeing one another off."

I looked around and saw he was right. A piece of wisdom from my father popped into my head at this revelation. "Athena, dear, most people don't spend time thinking about you, they're busy thinking about themselves!" As usual, Papa was right.

I heard the PA announce my flight and I hugged Virgil. "Take good care of things while I'm gone," I said.

"Don't you worry about a thing here," he said. "Daisy will be just fine. You just be careful in Egypt, y'hear? And come back soon!"
*****
The pilot announced the approach to London and I smiled at the memory. My finger traced my lips where Val had kissed me long and hard. I leaned back in my seat and stretched. The flight to London had been uneventful. I was feeling a need to stretch and eat during the three hour layover.

After touchdown I passed off the plane, and headed for the concourse. I didn't have to bother with customs as I wasn't staying, and soon I spotted a nice little overpriced restaurant. I sat down to coffee and chatted casually with the hostess, named Sally. She had a winning smile despite the lateness of the hour in England, and I acted on her suggestions to enjoy a meal of bubbles and squeak with my coffee. I set up my laptop, intending to catch up on some correspondence and my homepage came up with news about a calamity in Victory Park. My neighborhood.

I followed the link and listened as Jackie Marks described in detail the conflagration of my building. "Despite the brilliance and extreme heat of the blaze, the building was undamaged, thanks to the more than timely intervention of Captain Valiant. The good Captain has been seen with increasing frequency in Queen City, prompting many to ask, 'is there a budding romance between the Man of Marvels and our own White Owl?" A stock photo of me was flashed on the screen and to my dismay, I saw it was from Chateau magazine. The model wasn't really White Owl at all. I grimaced and felt my stomach gurgle a bit.

Just at that moment, my Iphone bleeped. I punched the respond button angrily.

"Hello?" I asked tentatively.

"Daisy is safe at my place, and your place is being rebuilt by the Coleman Group. I nearly had him Athena. We never sleep, you know."

"I thought that was the Pinkertons," I laughed. But it was a nervous laugh on my part. I'd heard the concern and frustration in his voice.

"Seriously Athena, someone has an enormous grudge, with either White Owl or with you. The guy I missed matched the description Scirocco gave. Please be careful and don't take any risks, OK?

"Oh come on Virgil, I appreciate your concern, but what could possibly happen on an archaeological dig?"

I seem to remember terrorists on one in particular," he retorted.
That stopped me and I suddenly felt my blood run cold. The incident he'd referred to, was my very first outing as White Owl, just after our dig had been taken over by European terrorists. My cousin Jason went for the police while I went into action with the new gifts I'd received.

"Athena?"

"I promise I'll be careful Virgil. My flight lands in Cairo in the afternoon; and I'll spend the night there. Dr Sahdi will send someone to pick me up the next day, so I'll be fresh and alert."

"Care for some company tonight?"

"No!" I was adamant. "We need to spend some time apart too, Virgil, to develop as individuals." My mind went back to Jackie Marks' comments. My hand clutched at the Chi Rho cross pendant around my neck; a gift Captain Valiant had given me. It was made of extremely rare metals . Not gold or platinum but it shone brighter than either of them.

I also thought about Father Timothy's sermon from the previous Sunday. "Love is patient, love is not rude..."

"I'm sorry Virgil, I was thinking about Father Tim," I said. I could almost sense the smile crossing his face.

"Well I'm the part that wants to protect all things Athena. But I also know about trust. So I'll trust you'll be fine. But will you do me one favor?"

"Name it"

"Will you make sure to wear you guild comlink?"

My heart melted. "If it will make you happy. But it will have to wait until I get to Cairo, when I can catch up to my luggage."

"I guess that will have to do," he said. I could hear the concern in his voice. But his next words caught me completely off guard. "Be safe Athena, I love you."

I swallowed hard. Though I'd seen it demonstrated so often, this was the first time he'd actually said the words out loud. What could I say...What should I do? The words tumbled out before I could consider or catch them.

"I love you too. You're a marvel."

"No that's the guy in Fawcett City," he said, teasingly. "See you soon."

I snapped the phone shut and sat, troubled over my emerging relationship. Was Athena in love with Virgil? Was Owl in love with Captain Valiant? Was there room for all that ego and compartmentalization in a relationship?

I almost missed the call for my plane and caught the plane seconds before the door was shut. I dozed fitfully the whole way to Cairo.