The flight west was long and boring but Steve spent the time formulating a plan of escape. He didn’t like the way Spencer’s eyes gleamed when he spoke of arriving in DC. The heartless man had something up his sleeve but Steve wasn’t sure what, he didn’t want to be around to find out.

Back in Washington Oscar was only slightly relieved to hear Spencer went to bring Steve home. He called Rudy to meet him in his office to share the news.

“So I assume Spencer now knows I switched out Steve’s power packs huh?” Rudy asked after settling into a chair.

“That would be a good assumption Rudy. We may both want to start setting up interviews with perspective employers. When Spencer gets back he may have both of us fired.”

“What I don’t understand is what he’s planning on doing with Steve once he’s here. Surely he knows I won’t return him to full power so he can be sent back to Russia.”

“I don’t know Rudy. I don’t think either of us is devious enough to anticipate how far Spencer will go to finalize this exchange.” The tall man settled back in his chair before finishing. “To be honest, what that man is capable of scares me.”

Steve was relieved when Spencer and his lackey left the plane to retrieve a vehicle, leaving only Steve and his guard who was to escort him to the waiting car when it was brought to the tarmac. Steve took his chance, from his seated position he slugged the unsuspecting guard in the stomach with his handcuffed hands as he stood beside him in the aisle. The punch took the wind out of the younger man. By the time he realized what was happening Steve clubbed him over the head, knocking him unconsciousness.

Spencer returned with his agent and was shocked to find the guard sprawled on the carpeted floor of the aircraft, the handcuff key lying on the empty seat. The revelation was enough to send him over the top. His face turned a garnet red and he shouted orders to his agent. Austin would not get away, not this time.

Steve was lucky he had enough time to grab a vehicle from the motor pool, removing the keys from behind the vacated desk without being noticed. When he reached the gate the guard recognized him instantly from several feet away and never even required him to slow down. Steve just shot him a friendly smile as he drove on through.

The possible options of where he could go flooded his mind but unfortunately he discarded them as fast as they appeared. Oscar and Rudy were out, too closely watched. Jaime, hopefully, was still hidden away and safe. Callahan, putting her in the line of fire was too risky. The miles fell behind and he dug deeper into his memory until he came up with a possible destination. Finally he had it…..Sloane.

Major Frederick Sloane was known as one of the ‘good old boys’. He and Steve played tennis together every week until three months ago when their work schedules conflicted too much to even attempt any free time.

Sloane was as trust worthy and honest as the day was long and Steve felt confident, if he could get to his friend’s house, he could take the time to rest and most of all think. A glance in the mirror reminded Steve that it had been a long time since he had gotten any resemblance of sleep. His eyes were glassy and his face, the parts not covered by the 2-day stubble, was pale.

Knowing Spencer would be hot on his tail the OSI operative ditched the sedan he had borrowed and, after hocking his military watch at a pawn shop, bought a bus ticket for northern Maryland. He hoped Sloane was low on the computer’s list of possible contacts for the new fugitive.

Fred Sloane was busy watering the plants in his sun room and almost didn’t hear the doorbell. Putting down his water pail he ambled casually to the door.

“Steve!” He greeted with enthusiasm but his tone dropped at the sad sight of his friend. “My God, what happened to you?”

“Can I come in?”

“Sure, sure. Please come in.” He stepped aside and watched Steve move past him with an unusually slow gait. “Are you okay? You look like hell.”

Steve sank into a chair and offered a reassuring smile to his friend. “I’m in a bit of a jam and I need your help.”

“Name it buddy.” He stepped closer waiting to hear what he could do to help his good friend.

Steve explained everything, beginning to end, without interruption. By the end Sloane was pacing the room. “So you see I just need time to rest and get my head together before I move on.”

“Move on? Where the hell are you going to go that they don’t find you?”

“I’m not sure yet.” Steve rested his head back, his fatigue gaining control. Sloane continued to pace, his mind trying to solve the problem that had left Steve in a very big hole. He looked up, taking a breath, to ask more questions but found his guest sound asleep in the chair. He smiled remembering fond times in earlier years when they would stay out all night and crash here at his place. Unfortunately it would take more than a shower and a good night sleep to improve this situation in the morning.

Placing a crocheted afghan over his friend he returned to his chores quietly.

By the time Steve woke night had arrived. He stood and stretched then went to find his generous host. He found him in his study.

“Well it’s about time you woke up. Feeling a little better?”

Steve just nodded.

Sloane gestured to the guest room. “I put out some clothes for you. I’m sure Spencer has a posse out looking for you. Why don’t you grab a hot shower? I’ll make us some dinner and we can figure this out together.”

“Thanks Fred.” Steve’s tone carried with it all the gratitude he felt.

“No need to thank me. We’re friends and I know you would do the same for me.”

With a curt nod Steve headed to the guest room, looking forward to a long hot shower and a shave.

The two discussed every detail at length and were just finished putting the dishes away when the doorbell rang. Steve froze. Leaning forward he whispered to Sloane. “Are you expecting anyone?”

“No. Go to the basement. There’s a fake door behind the gardening shelves.” Steve just nodded but before leaving the room he turned back. “No heroics okay?”

“You know me Steve. I’m a thinker more than a fighter.” Steve winked and headed downstairs. He moved into a small storage bunker and closed the hidden door behind him.

“May I help you?” Fred Sloane asked cordially to the men at his doorstep.

Badges were flashed. “My name is Spencer. I’m here looking for an OSI agent who is a known friend of yours.”

“And who might that be?” He asked hoping to give Steve time to hide.

“Steve Austin.”

”Steve Austin? I haven’t seen him in months. Why would he be here?”

“Maybe that is something we can discuss inside huh?” Spencer wanted to get into the home as soon as possible. His gut told him Austin was here.

Not wanting to raise any suspicion Sloane asked them in. “May I get you boys a drink?”

“With your permission we would like to search you house and grounds.”

Sloane poured himself a drink, remaining cool and collected. “Sure, be my guest but I can assure you it’s a waste of time.”

Spencer eyed the man closely. “Well I’m afraid none if us will sleep well tonight until all the bases have been covered thoroughly.”

“Well then make yourselves at home.” Fred slid into his favorite chair and watched Spencer and the two agents move about his home, including the basement and attic.

Soon the trio regrouped in the living room. “We found no sign of Austin.”

Sloane gave Spencer a smirk. “I told you it was a waste of time.”

“Forgive us if we see it as productive. Come on.” With that the men left and Sloane let out a long exhale. Now he needed to undo what Spencer and his men had done.

Sloane moved towards the basement after confirming Spencer and his band of un-merry men had left. He gave Steve the okay to exit the storage bunker but placed a finger to his lips to keep his friend silent. Moving across the room Fred retrieved a small case from a cabinet. Steve silently followed him upstairs with a confused look on his face.

Moving down the hallway he pulled Steve into the bathroom, shut the door and turned on the shower. Understanding the precautions Sloane was taking Steve couldn’t help see the humor presenting itself.

“Ah, Fred….I know we are close friends but……????” He nodded to the shower.

“Very funny. Spencer made a comment just before he left that he saw this search of my house as productive. I suspect they left us some unwanted items.” He held up the box.

“Let me guess….a bug sweeper.”

Sloane nodded. “Not all my electronic inventions are only for military use.”

“How sensitive is it?”

“Three times more sensitive then anything the government has.”

Steve grinned. “I’m impressed. Spencer no doubt used the OSI’s most discreet hardware.”

Sloane moved around his home in a methodical fashion, spending extra time on the most common areas for monitoring. Each time he found a listening device he held up a hand to alert Steve to their locations, careful not to disturb them. Half an hour later they were back in the bathroom.

“I think I should move on Fred. I’ve already pulled you in too deep.”

“Nonsense. You know how much I enjoy getting the best of bureaucrats….don’t take the fun away from me. Besides you need some decent sleep. You aren’t looking too good.”

Steve found it hard to object. He felt exhausted. “Well you always said you were the good looking one anyway.”

It was dawn and Fred was an early riser but never earlier than Steve. He moved about the house getting ready for the day. Looking in on Steve he was concerned when his friend didn’t wake easily which wasn’t like Steve. Deciding to let him sleep a little longer he moved to the kitchen to make some strong coffee.

As the smell of the fresh brew wafted into the bedroom Steve finally stirred. He dragged himself to the shower and made himself presentable. As he was showering he didn’t hear the doorbell. Sloane moved cautiously to answer it.

Opening the door he was surprised to see Oscar Goldman standing before him.

“Fred.” He said curtly.

“Oscar, what brings you out this way?”

“I’m looking for Steve. Is he here?” Fred saw the concern in the tall man’s eyes. Slowly his gaze moved to the shorter man.

Oscar made the short introduction. “Fred this is Dr. Rudy Wells. He’s a good friend of Steve’s and his doctor. We are hoping to help him out of a mess. If he is here that is.”

Fred hesitated, unsure what side everyone was on, especially when he was pulled into the game in the last quarter. Oscar saw his suspicious frown. He leaned closer. “I swear Fred we are on Steve’s side. Is he here?”

“Come in.” Fred requested. Had it not been for his concern for Steve’s physical condition and Rudy being a doctor he would have sent them away immediately. Making a note to keep a close eye on the two he went to find Steve but only after switching on the radio to mask any conversation and informing his newly arrived guests in a hushed tone that the walls had ears.

As the two men stood in the living room they hoped Steve would see them. They were not surprised when the OSI agent entered the room with a haggard but angry face.

“What are you two doing here? Are you trying to get me killed?”

“Steve we want to help you.”

Steve’s voice was a harsh whisper. “Help me? Help me? If you could help me you would have prevented any of this from happening.” Steve anger simmered below the surface. If it weren’t for the listening devices and the need to remain quiet Steve’s voice would have lifted the roof off. Seeing the guilt fill both sets of eyes he immediately regretted his words. “I’m sorry. Neither of you deserved that. I guess I’m just tired and frustrated right now.” He took a deep breath knowing he hadn’t the time or the energy for this conversation. “You know Spencer probably has tails on both of you.”

“Steve we were extremely careful. No one followed us.”

“That’s what you think.” Steve began pacing then stopped abruptly. “You want to help me?”

The two men nodded hopefully.

“Then leave and don’t try to find me.”

“What are you going to do?” Rudy asked no liking how thin and tired his friend looked.

“I’m going to try and disappear.”

Oscar immediately jumped in not wanting to lose contact with his other bionic agent. “Steve don’t……”

“Oscar I don’t have any choice! I don’t want to do it but I’d prefer that then have to put a bullet in my head because I am not going back to Russia to be a lab rat.” The tone Steve used was one neither Oscar nor Rudy heard very often but it clearly expressed his determination.

“Alright Steve but we want you to know we are here if you need us.”

The broad shoulders slumped a bit. “I appreciate that, really I do but being anywhere near either of you is worse than a death sentence for me. Do you understand?”

“Yeah Steve, we understand.” The two men wished Steve luck and left.

Steve quickly made plans to leave also, confident that Spencer was close.

“Mr. Spencer you might want to hear this.”

Spencer limped over to the young agent wearing the headset. Watching him reach over and move a few dials before sliding off the earpieces.

“With our newest sound filtering system I was able to delete the extraneous noise.” He turned up the volume and as the voices escaped the speakers Spencer’s lips curled into a smile.

“So he was at Sloane’s. Let’s go boys.” He ordered and left the room.

Steve was on the move, having some concern for his friend. He had walked a few miles before hitching a ride from a passing motorist. After giving the driver the contrived story of his car breaking down he settled in for the short drive. As the car Steve rode in passed a gas station a grey sedan, driven by Hanson, pulled out behind them, keeping a safe distance.

Getting on the radio Hanson informed the team he had Austin in his sight. The group headed in his direction. Steve sat unawares that three cars and 6 agents were headed right for him.

Steve stepped from the car and gave a cursory glance in all direction but the surveillance cars were well hid. He leaned in a sincerely thanked the driver before watching him drive off. Turning quickly into the busy bus station he mingled into the crowd hoping to disappear.

Steve knew going to a public bus station was risky but he knew Spencer couldn’t exactly put out an APB with his face on it. There would be too many questions as to why he was being sought, being a celebrity and all. No Spencer knew the news reporters and journalist in the D.C area were always looking for a meaty government story and they would dig very, very deep on Steve’s history thus possibly uncovering who he worked for and his special construction. Steve smirked as he stepped in the ticket line wondering what hell would break loose if he did go public. Of course the results would be more damning to Steve then the government so he never considered it an option. No he just needed to disappear.

Spencer and his men moved to all the doorways and mixed among the many tourists coming to the Nation’s capital for some historic sight seeing. Occasionally a low, soft voice came across their hidden earpieces, enabling them to track their target from a safe distance.

Just before buying his ticket Steve used his still functional bionic eye and paled when he recognized two business-suited men trying to blend in with the crowd. Feeling trapped he moved smoothly towards the back of the building. The team moved in and saw him exit out an emergency exit, the alarm causing a mild panic in the building.

A security officer saw Steve exit from 100 yards away along with what he guessed were FBI agents and moved to follow. Knowing his assistance could be of value to the agents, maybe even a commendation.

Steve moved quickly, wishing he could take off in a bionic run but…. Dodging traffic he crossed the busy street and headed south down an alley. Nothing in his immediate vicinity was available as a hiding place. He moved forward, climbing up the ten foot tall chain-link fence and scampering over just as the men came around the corner and gave chase. Several agents had their guns ready but knew Spencer did not want Austin injured. Unfortunately for the government agents their target also knew he was not in danger of being shot.

After running one block east Steve turned back north. He was half way up the narrow passage when he saw a security officer from the bus station aiming his gun from the opposite end of the alley. Steve glanced behind him wondering if he could make it out of the alley before the man fired.

“Stop right there fella….now I don’t know what you did but I see 6 government agents chasing you so it must be pretty bad. Now just keep your hands where I can see them and….” Steve spun and bolted, the sound of gunfire erupting behind him. He made it to the alley’s end, several bullets whizzing past him. Just as he turned east he heard another shot and something slugged him in the head. He felt a burning sensation before darkness claimed him, causing him to slump to the ground.

Hanson, Spencer and the team were breathing heavy as they approached the fallen OSI agent. Spencer whacked his cane on the hard ground in anger. Steve lay face down, blood flowing from the head wound.

“Dammit.” Hanson muttered and squatted down to turn the still form over.

In Oscar’s car the two men were silent trying to think how they could help Steve. They weren’t far from the OSI building when the ringing car phone broke the quietness of the vehicle.

Oscar, after hanging up, informed Rudy. “Steve’s at the Medical Center”

“Medical Center? Why? What happened?” The physician was confused as he and Oscar knew the NSB would not harm Steve and bring down Spencer’s wrath. He was too valuable.

“I don’t know. Let’s go find out.” Oscar replied and swung the car into a U-turn.

The OSI Director and doctor trotted swiftly to the emergency room only to be met by an armed military guard who stopped them in their tracks.

With a stoic face staring straight ahead and a voice lacking all emotion the US Marine spoke firmly, “I’m sorry sir but this room is off limits.”

“Corporal, do you know who I am?”

“Yes sir.” He replied flatly.

“Then you know I have a right to go in there and so does Dr. Wells; he is Colonel Austin’s personal physician. I think its imperative you let him enter.”

The Marine remained at attention directly in front of the treatment room door, his arms folded behind his back. Again his gaze was locked on the far wall. “I’m sorry sir but I must follow orders.”

The anxious men shared a quick glance before Oscar prodded. “Corporal I want to know exactly what orders you were given.”

The young enlisted man took a moment to recall if the information requested was allowed to be divulged. Seeing as how it had not been given as an order by Spencer the guard answered. “I am to guard US Government property sir.”

“What property?”

“Catalog number 786-34-C. No one except Mr. Spencer and those he has specifically approved is permitted within 50 feet of said property.”

Oscar took a step towards the door when the Marine stepped in his way without making eye contact. The forceful voice left no argument. “Sir, I have orders to use force if necessary. Please step back.”

Rudy tugged Oscar’s arm, seeing the taller man’s face turning red with anger. The doctor nudged him back to avoid an altercation.

The door behind the large Marine opened and Spencer, using his black cane, exited. Oscar and Rudy noticed the smirk on his face and wondered what put it there.

“Well I had a feeling you’d be showing up here.” He eyed both men.

“What happened to Steve?” Rudy pressed.

“Oh no need to worry Dr. Wells, I have a competent physician treating him and soon he will be good as new….even better some might say after those inferior power packs you implanted are replaced with the nuclear ones.” The lifeless eyes bore into the physician accusingly.

“What is his condition?” Oscar asked with contempt flashing in his eyes.

“Oh…he took a bullet to the head.” He said matter-of-factly. With a glance at Rudy he added. “Very good thing you reinforced his skull after his accident.”

Rudy blinked twice wondering how Steve came to have a gunshot wound to his head. He wondered if Steve made good on his promise he stated at Sloane’s place. “I’d rather disappear than have to put a bullet in my head…..” Rudy hoped his suspicions weren’t true knowing Steve as well as he did. “Was it self-inflicted?” He asked softly.

“No….no…apparently an over-zealous security guard saw Austin running away from Hanson and his men and wanted to be a hero. We were just lucky the missed shot ricocheted and dropped him without causing significant damage.”

The door behind Spencer opened again and this time a gurney was being pushed into the hallway. “Well gentleman, some of us have work to do.” Spencer went off talking with the physician he had appointed.

Oscar looked at the pale still form on the gurney as it passed him, a square gauze bandage covering the crease on the left temple. He and Rudy couldn’t get close with the Marine between them. They watched helpless as their friend was transported down the hall.

Oscar let out a sigh and finally looked at Rudy who was too quiet. “Rudy?”

With a head nod in the direction of the gurney the doctor replied. “The doctor with Steve, Avery Miller, was once involved in the early stages of the Cyborg project. He has the skill to replace Steve’s nuclear power packs.”

Oscar was stunned. “Did you say Avery Miller?”

“Yeah, why? Do you know him?”

“I know about him and what he’s been working on since leaving the bionics program.” His eyes expressed the fear that had settled into his gut. “Rudy I think this situation is about to get much worse.”

Rudy’s face fell at the suggestion. “Why do you say that?”

“Come with me.” The two headed swiftly to Oscar’s office where he pulled out a secret file from his locked drawer. Nodding his head when he had confirmation he handed to file to Rudy.

Oscar let out a heavy sigh and sat himself on the corner of the desk. “Brain implants. Rudy it all makes sense. Steve will not voluntarily go along with Spencer’s plan. Now that Steve is unconscious and helpless they are going to take control of his mind.”

Looking up Oscar saw Rudy’s face turn pale at the disgusting thought of controlling another human being then it changed to a dark shade of red as his anger built.

“Oscar we need to take action! Isn’t there anything we can do?” Rudy was already anxious from not being involved in Steve’s medical care, letting his friend be at the mercy of someone Rudy didn’t trust was pushing him into a panic.

Oscar moved to his feet. “Yeah Rudy there is…we can kidnap Steve and take him underground. The question is…..how much did you like your job?”

“Not that much. Let’s go!”

As the two men were rushing from the office Callahan stopped them, the phone at her ear, and her hand over the receiver. “Mr. Goldman wait!”

Oscar stopped and turned a look of annoyance on his face. “What Callahan?”

“It’s the President…of the United States” She gestured with the receiver.

Oscar and Rudy glanced at one another and the doctor shrugged. “It’s worth a shot. Steve might gain his freedom without going into hiding and maybe Spencer will lose his job when we explain what he is doing.”

Oscar grabbed the phone. “Mr. President……..”

With Oscar rushing to meet with the President Rudy waited to talk with Dr. Avery Miller. Meeting him just outside the OR he glared at his former colleague.

“Hello Rudy.” He greeted dryly as he pulled on his lab coat. “I assume you are wondering about Steve Austin’s condition.”

“Yes.”

“He’ll be fine.” Miller replied curtly and began walking purposely down the hall.

Rudy grabbed the burly man’s arm and spun him so they were face to face. “How could you Avery? Experimental brain implants? This is a human being we are talking about not a rat or a monkey! Where are your ethics?”

The thin lips grew into and even thinner line. “Oh get off your high horse Rudy. I’m sure someone asked you the same thing when you made your Cyborg.”

“But it was necessary. This…this is just cruel…inhumane.”

“Rudy, Spencer gave me the same chance he gave you 3 years ago….a chance to forego decades of experimenting on animals….a chance to move years ahead and trial the implant on a human being. It will save millions of dollars.”

Rudy, realizing he had made a similar decision years ago, froze both with contempt and disgust. “It’s not the same Avery and you know it. What you just did took independent thought from an innocent human being.”

“It’s obvious you cannot or will not see how this will benefit the OSI in the future so I will not even attempt to explain it further.” An evil glint flashed in his eye as he wanted to twist the knife while it was in his colleague who had gone far beyond anyone’s expectations with the bionics program and at the same time drew a lot of attention from the higher ups. Miller would never admit he was jealous of the recognition and budget money but, as a passive aggressive personality, he took this opportunity to emotionally cut Rudy.

“I must say your work on Austin has moved my research far ahead than anything else I have tried.”

”Why do you say that?” Rudy asked, unsure if he even wanted to know how his work had added to this nightmare.

“In recent months I have had much difficulty with a power source small enough for the implant, having to utilize a small external power pack on the early experiments with rats.” His head nodded to the closed OR doors. “Just now, all I had to do was connect the implant to the bionic optical unit’s power source, keeping it all internally housed. For that I guess I should thank you.”

“Don’t bother Avery.” Rudy retorted in a low voice.

With a shake of his head Dr. Miller moved off to his office, closing the door loudly behind him. Rudy stood, stunned at the turn of events.

Oscar waited impatiently in the outer room of the Oval Office. The President agreed to meet with him before flying to Camp David. In his hand he held a signed declaration from the Secretary. Unfortunately that wasn’t enough for the high level committee that Spencer worked for. If Steve was going to be saved it would have to be by a Presidential Order.

“Mr. Goldman, the President can see you now.”

Oscar hopped quickly to his feet, his mind preoccupied with what was happening with Steve and if he would be in time.

Rudy sat alone in his office, the daylight rapidly dimming through the windows. His eyes stared unfocused across the room as he silently berated himself on everything he had done to this point that put Steve in such a horrific situation, even regretting the original bionic construction. He let out a long sigh, feeling worn out and numb.

As he sat recalling making Steve bionic the one scene that kept replaying over and over was when Steve realized what Rudy had done to him. At one point of utter despair Rudy remembered Steve turning to him, eyes shiny with unshed tears, and saying, “Why didn’t you just let me die?” It was at that moment Rudy finally understood the impact of what he had done.

Moving to pace around his office the scientist could not get the memory to leave his mind. As if moving without thought he removed a vial of a strong sedative and syringe from the glass front cabinet. Poking the pointed needle into the vial he drew up 20 ml, 10 times more than normally used to sedate a grown man for 12 hours.

“Why didn’t you just let me die?” Steve voice echoed from the past.

There was a time in Steve’s recovery after his plane crash when he awoke in the hyperbaric chamber and, realizing he was a triple amputee and still alive, dropped himself to the floor, and dragged himself with one arm to a glass cabinet. After breaking the glass he attempted to end his life by stabbing himself in the gut. He had almost succeeded.

“Why didn’t you just let me die?” Steve voice echoed again from the distance.

Steve was a man who needed some control over his life…his destiny, a very human trait. It was at that point that Rudy had to consider if Steve could pull out of such a deep depression and make the most of his new limbs….his new life.

At this moment, with the brain implant in place, Steve would not have any control over his actions. His choices would be carefully controlled by someone else, turning into a robot. Rudy looked at the syringe in his hand and thought this was the best thing he could do for his patient. There wasn’t much time left to take any action to prevent Spencer from sending Steve back to Russia.

Walking toward Steve’s room Rudy immediately noticed the absence of the guard. He pushed the door opened slightly and saw that Steve was alone in the dimly lit room. Without contemplating the oddity Rudy moved, as if in a daze, to the left side of the bed.

By now it was night and the room was eerily dark and quiet except for the beeping heart monitor and overhead light that cast a soft glow on the unconscious patient. For a few moments Rudy just looked down at the post operative patient, a man he held in high regard for over a decade.

With the sheets gathered at Steve’s waist, Rudy watched the slow rise and fall of his bare chest and abdomen, trying to ignore that his actions would still the movement forever. As if trying to break through his daze, the heart monitor beeped incessantly, prodding Rudy to make a final decision on what he should do.

Unable to listen to the sound of his friend’s heart beat Rudy reached up and lowered the volume until it fell quiet. He would know when it was over by watching the green blips on the screen drop to a flat line.

After a deep cleansing breath the syringe was uncapped and the clear tubing that was feeding medication into Steve left arm as made accessible. Rudy whispered his apology as he inserted the needle.

The low emotionless voice that came from the darkened corner startled Rudy. “Murder could get you the death penalty Dr. Wells.” The small narrow eyes had been watching the doctor with mild interest.

Rudy spun and saw the dark pant legs just on the edge of the shadow were Spencer had been sitting. Why he was there, in the dark, Rudy didn’t know or care.

Slowly the older man came to stand on stiff legs before moving to the bedside. Rudy, the syringe still poised in the IV line glared at the weathered face across the bed. “According to you Steve is more a piece of property than a person Spencer. How could you classify this as murder?”

“Do you really think that would be a better option for him?” Spencer gestured to the still full syringe.

“You can’t expect me to allow you to do this to him.”

“Are you referring to the implant or the relocation to Russia?”

“Both. Steve is not some machine, at least not before the implant, but you have effectively turned him into a robot that can be controlled remotely. Then to give him to the Soviets……it’s just not right. He committed no crime but you are sentencing him to a life time of hell.”

Spencer got a cocky expression on his face before replying. “Some would say you are doing the same….giving a lethal injection to an innocent man.” Rudy looked down at the syringe. “And I assume that is lethal.”

“I know without a doubt Steve would rather die peacefully in his sleep here then live the life you are creating for him.”

“Why doctor, you make me out like I’m some kind of monster.” He stated with exaggerated surprise.

“Aren’t you… with this exchange with the Russian’s?”

“I think you are looking at this all wrong. Think of it as a sports team trading a player to another team, in exchange, we get one of theirs. That’s all this is doctor.”

“You really do lack morals don’t you?”

“So do you unless you remove that syringe from the IV. If you push that plunger I will see to it that you get to spend your natural life in a very, very nasty prison.”

Rudy hesitated, trying to find the courage to push the plunger. Could he really kill Steve, his best friend, and live with the guilt?

Slowly he pulled the stainless steel needle from the tubing and exhaled loudly, placing it in his coat pocket. The determined brown eyes glared at the black ones. “This isn’t over Spencer.”

At that moment the door opened and Avery Miller entered. Spencer turned to speak with him in an authoritative tone. “Dr. Miller, please take all the necessary actions to move your patient. We leave in 2 hours.”

“Leave? Why?”

Spencer looked over his shoulder at Wells. “Its obvious Austin is no longer safe here.” Stepping aside he left the room. A confused Avery looked at Wells as if he would give an explanation but a silent Rudy ambled swiftly to the door.

The next morning Steve awoke with a dull ache in his head, concerned that Rudy was no where nearby. Dr. Miller introduced himself and after being questioned he would only tell his patient what he truly needed to know and that Wells was no longer on his case at Spencer’s order.

The revelation that his nuclear packs were in place left Steve overwhelmed with fear. Drifting in and out of a light doze Steve tried to figure out his next move.

After leaving the president in the late evening Oscar found Rudy in his office, looking like a man lost as sea. The OSI Director explained how Spencer was able to get away with using Steve in the Russian exchange and that the President was appalled at the way the committee chairman went about getting his approval for such a heinous act.

Oscar was anxious to find Spencer to rub his nose in the papers he held, one of which was the demand for his immediate resignation by the President. “Let’s go talk to Steve.”

Rudy stood with his back to his boss. “Spencer already took Steve out of here. I don’t know where.”

“Dammit! When?” Oscar saw the slump in Rudy’s shoulders. “Was Avery Miller with them?”

“About two hours ago and yes Avery is with them.” Rudy replied as he turned. “I’m sure wherever they went they will need to trial the implant to see if it works adequately before flying him to Russia.”

“We need to get to Steve before they fly him out of the States.” Oscar quickly placed a phone call to his team, demanding they find Spencer and Steve immediately. Getting to his feet he urged Rudy to come along. “Aren’t you coming?”

“No I…don’t think so.” He turned back to the window.

“Why not Rudy? Steve may need you when we get to him.”

The doctor could only think of what would happen if they didn’t get to him…all because he could follow through on his plan to….

“Rudy? We still have a chance.” He saw the drawn features. “Rudy did something else happen?”

Rudy swallowed hard before confessing, “There’s something you should know.” Oscar nodded them listened as Rudy poured out his soul. His idea stunned Oscar but he understood the compassion behind it. He moved to place a hand on the doctor’s shoulder.

“You didn’t do anything wrong Rudy. You were just looking out for Steve’s best interests. We may still have a chance to get him out of this. Don’t feel guilty.”

“I’ll feel guilty either way. If Steve is sent to Russia it will be because I couldn’t go through with it. If we do get him out of Spencer’s hands I’ll feel guilty for almost killing him when it all worked out.”

“Well I hope it’s the later. Come on let’s go.”

Spencer watched a dozing Steve from the one-way mirror to his room. The authoritative man was anxious to see the implant work, seeing Steve being obedient to his commands would be a refreshing change.

Taking the tiny microphone and clipping it to his jacket he began giving his subject instructions. “Open your eyes.”

Immediately the blue eyes opened to stare at the ceiling.

Steve felt a chill run up his spine when for no reason his eyes opened. He glanced around thinking someone had spoken to him. Seeing nothing he closed his eyes again, rubbing his forehead to try and extinguish the mild throbbing.

“Sit up.” Spencer said and instantly Steve was in an upright, sitting position, his legs out straight on the bed.

Steve looked around and saw no one. A sense of fear grew as he did not know why he sat up when all he wanted to do was sleep. The room was unfamiliar and he wondered where he was. Slowly he slid his bare feet to the floor, the hospital gown covering him to his knees.

Slow cautious steps took him to the door, turning the knob only to find it locked. He rested his head against the cool wood, entertaining the idea of yanking to door off its hinges.

Spencer watched with interest, already anticipating what Steve was thinking. He gave another order and Steve’s head came up, he turned left and moved to stand in the corner, his back to Spencer.

As if in a daze he stood, inches from the grey wall, wondering what possessed him to do that. He tried to move away but couldn’t. ‘What the hell is wrong with me?’ He wondered and lifted his foot to step away and it instantly returned to its original position as if he was stuck in quicksand.

Suddenly out of the blue his right arm came up and penetrated the wall at his eye level. Pulling his dusty hand back he stared at it as if it was a snake. ‘Why in the world would I do that?’ He whispered. ‘Something is not right….in fact something is very wrong.’

Finally he was moving back to the bed without consciously thinking of it. Before reaching the soft mattress his body took a sharp turn to end up in front of the mirror. Steve thought he had lost his mind….or was dreaming. All he knew was he had little or no control over his body and it terrified him.

Avery watched as Spencer gave Steve some simple instructions using the implant. He smiled proudly as their subject followed every instruction to the letter. As Steve stood before the mirror they saw the flash of confusion and fear cross his face.

Miller cringed when Spencer ordered Steve to stand at attention and salute. It was time to put a stop to the man’s cruel behavior.

The scientist grabbed the microphone. “That’s enough Spencer.” He glared at the man who had helped him bring his creation to practical use. Spencer did not initially release the device. A chuckled escaped his lips.

“It’s like having a life size action figure isn’t it?” Spencer asked with his eyes on his subject.

“I said that’s enough.” Finally the aged hand let go and a smirk appeared.

“I’d say you have succeeded Dr. Miller. Congratulations. I think its time we tell Austin.” He grinned excitedly, knowing Steve would be shocked at what had been done to him.

Steve was moving back to his bed when the door opened. He did not like the look on Spencer’s face. “Spencer… you sonofa….”

“Well it’s nice to see you too Colonel. How are you feeling?” He asked in a tone that lacked sincerity.

“Where am I? What the hell did you do to me?”

“Me? I didn’t do anything to you.” He replied innocently then looked back to see Dr. Miller approach. “Dr. Miller here needed a subject for some research and I allowed him to use you.”

The icy blue eyes bore into Avery. “What did you do to me?” He ground out a clenched jaw.

Avery swallowed before answering. “I placed an implant here in your brain.” He pointed to an area behind his left ear.

Steve’s eyes grew wide. “YOU DID WHAT?” His hand came up and he felt the small one-inch square patch of hair that was missing right behind his left ear. Further touch revealed several small sutures. “My God.” He commented to no one in particular. He began pacing and both Miller and Spencer remained alert for any physical outburst.

As Steve moved about the room he felt stronger….yes, he was stronger, reminding himself he was back to full power. He had a chance.

He lunged at Avery who was the closest to him, not realizing it was Spencer who was in control of his actions. The moment Steve’s hands wrapped around Avery’s neck Spencer spoke angrily into the small microphone.

“Release him.” Unable to disobey Steve’s hands released the muscular neck. Slowly Steve’s breathing slowed. He heard Spencer mumbled words and found himself on his knees.

Avery was stunned as Spencer walked over to the former astronaut, grinning as he closed in. “You need to understand,” Spencer ground out looking down at his subject. “I am in control of you right now.” He offered an evil grin enjoying the submissive posture of the agent.

Steve’s heart began beating hard against his ribs, his anger barely under control. The implant gave control of his action to others but not his emotions.

Spencer watched as Steve’s head and neck turned red from the rage boiling below the surface. “Get on your feet.” He ordered then stood nose-to-nose with him. “Get used to it Austin. You don’t have any choice now.”

Callahan walked into Oscar’s office without her usual knock. Both Rudy and her boss looked at her with hopeful faces. She gave a small smile at her ingenuity.

“I found Mr. Spencer’s plane. It’s at a small private airstrip 15 miles west of here.”

Oscar got to his feet. “So, Spencer is trying to keep Steve hidden. He probably knows I’ve spoken with the President by now.”

Callahan continued, “I was told they are working on fixing the braking system but that it would be ready for flight by 5:00 pm.”

“But that’s 10 minutes from now!” Oscar interrupted.

Callahan’s smile grew a bit bigger. “I pretended to be Mr. Spencer’s secretary and told them not to hurry that Mr. Spencer did not want to leave until 6:00 pm.”

Oscar’s face lit up as he stepped to Callahan’s side. “You just got yourself a raise.” He exclaimed and squeezed her shoulders. If she wasn’t his secretary he may have even kissed her. “Let’s go Rudy.”

...Continued