VIRTUAL SEASONS EPISODES |
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PROLOGUE
I
May
21, 2007
Christa Calavicci laughed as her fiancé spun her around, giving
her a deep kiss. The past weekend had been absolutely wonderful. Edward
Sharpe had come down from
“Gawd, I can’t wait until
the wedding,” she told him with a gleam in her eye. “Mrs. Edward
Sharpe, IV. Has a nice ring to it.”
Eddie grinned at her words.
“Yeah, it does.” He kissed her again, guiding her towards the bed just
behind them. He wasn’t able to get them all the way to the bed. Christa
stopped him.
“Eddie, no,” she protested
half-heartedly. “As much as I want you, you know I can’t do that until
we’re married. I just wouldn’t feel comfortable with that.”
“Then let’s get
married,” he said bluntly, all seriousness in his eyes.
“We are,” Christa told
him. “In August.”
“Today.”
Christa stared at him in
surprise. “T…Today? But… Mom and Dad…”
Eddie gently took her face.
“Do you always do what they tell you to do?” he asked her gently. “I
love you, Christa. I need you. And I know you feel the same way. So,
let’s just do it. Let’s get married. We’ll go down to the courthouse
and have a Justice of the Peace marry us. That doesn’t mean we can’t
have a church wedding in August.”
“But… Dad…” Christa
protested weakly.
Eddie kissed her sweetly.
“If you’re worried what your Dad would think, we can keep it quiet
until August. I just… I love you, Christa. I want you as my wife.”
Christa hesitated only a
moment before she wrapped her arms around Eddie and kissed him. “Let’s
do it. Let’s get married today.” She giggled almost like a teenager
with a crush. “I think this is probably the happiest day of my life!”
It didn’t take long for
Eddie and Christa to go to the Justice of the Peace and sign the papers
that legally bound them in matrimony. After a lovely dinner of inexpensive
tacos and beer, Christa brought Eddie up to her dorm room where they were
finally legally allowed to truly show each other just how much they loved
each other.
PROLOGUE
II Through the shroud of blue light, Dr. Samuel Beckett could make out the tall trees that enveloped the landscape. The world was rushing past him, though, so he couldn’t quite make out much more. He found himself running. He wanted to stop but, at the same time, it was as if something kept him moving onward, refusing to let him stop. Through his trek, he evaded a few protruding branches, although some of them had managed to whip him across the face, causing him to wince. For a brief moment he could’ve sworn that he heard someone from somewhere behind him let out a slight yelp. He quickly turned his head to see who it was that was following him, but he could only see a blurred figure running a couple steps behind. He brought himself to a halt, stopping in mid stride. Hunched over, he took a moment to catch his breath. After another minute or so, the rest of the quantum energy dissipated, clearing his vision and gaining him a much better view of his surroundings. The
sun was just beginning to rise as thin wisps of clouds stretched across
the sky like fine cotton. A panorama of colors painted the dawning sky;
reds, purples, oranges all beautifully intermingled. The warm breeze
drifted by, giving Sam an indication that the new day would be quite a
warm one. A multitude of birds chirped from the trees above, filling the
woods with their gentle song. “Hey!”
someone shouted. Sam brought his head up and saw a young blond haired
woman, clad in a jean jacket, white shirt, blue shorts, and white tennis
shoes, standing behind him, breathing heavily as she slightly bent over.
“W-what did you stop for? He could be right behind us.” “I
needed t-to catch my breath,” Sam replied as he took a couple of deep
breaths, his heart still hammering in his chest. The young woman, who
appeared to be no older than eighteen looked at him with widened eyes. Sam
started to stand back up as something managed to catch his eye. “Well,
we can’t stop here,” she said as Sam moved toward her, his brow
furrowed. She leaned back in confusion as Sam closely examined her, gently
tilting her head. The left side of her face was slightly swollen and she
had a black eye. Sam’s blood ran cold as his gaze wandered downward; her
shirtsleeves were torn, revealing several cut marks with blood crusted on
the edges. There were also several bruises in the shape of thumbprints on
either forearm. “Aw,
gawd,” Sam breathed as the sight horrified him. The girl quickly pulled
away from him. “What
the hell are you doing, huh? We have to get out of here now!” She turned
around just as the faint sound of an engine emanated from somewhere
nearby, abruptly stopping her in her tracks. Shaking her head she
exclaimed, “Ah, no! No, no, no!” She then turned around and bolted
forward, leaving Sam to catch up to her. “Hey,”
Sam shouted as he ran after her. He managed to catch up with the girl as
they continued to dodge and weave through the woods. “We
keep heading this way and it should lead us back to the bridge... I
think,” the girl said as she quickly glanced over at Sam. About ten
minutes later the trees and shrubs gave way to a small dirt path. Both Sam
and the girl looked about in both directions, trying to figure out which
direction to take. Sam looked over at the girl and saw the despair, pain,
and fear in her blue eyes. “Don’t
worry,” Sam said as he smiled at her, “I’ll make sure that you get
to safety.” “You
damn well better,” she said with a tinge of anger in her tone, “after
all it was you who nabbed me off the street.” Sam held his gaze on her,
obviously in shock by what she said. “Oh
boy,” he said. PART
ONE
August
28, 1983 It
took Sam a moment to recover from that one. When the girl simply stared at
him, Sam quickly adverted his gaze to the path that lay ahead. He didn’t
know how to handle this, yet he knew what he was there to do. Somehow he
had to get her to safety. The girl, after a moment of uncomfortable
silence, continued on leaving the scientist in a momentary state of shock.
Sam snapped himself out of it and caught up to her. They followed the path
for some time, neither one of them saying much. The sun continued to rise,
the dark blue of the sky giving way to a lighter blue. The heat, too,
began to manifest itself through strong breezes that rustled through the
woods. The path they followed took a few turns and soon was leading them
up a slight hill. The girl pulled off her jean jacket and slung it over
her shoulder. “Damn,
it’s getting hot,” she said. Sam looked over at her as she stumbled a
couple times, her knees buckling. Sam went to help her but she jumped a
bit and moved to the side. “Don’t bother.
I’m fine.” When Sam started to protest she said, “Please.
Just... don’t touch me, okay?” “Okay,”
Sam replied with a heavy heart. He wanted desperately to help this girl,
but she refused. She was looking away from him, at the hill as they
continued onward. “Why
are you doing this?” she asked after a couple minutes of silence as she
continued to hike up the hill. “Why kidnap me only to help me escape?”
Sam thought for a moment as to how to respond to the inquiry. “Ah,
well, let’s just say that I’m not whom you think I am.” He smiled,
trying to lighten the mood. “Oh,
really?” The girl stopped and turned around, facing Sam, a single brow
arched. “Then just who the hell are you?” Sam hedged on the question
for a beat and when it was apparent to her that she wouldn’t get a
response, she continued on. Sam could tell that the girl had gone at least
a couple days without food or water, there were bags under her eyes and
she had a hard time keeping a steady pace. Sam, too, could feel the pains
of hunger and thirst. His body ached more with each step taken. “Don’t
worry, I’ll make sure you get back to where you belong.” When she only
looked at him, he grinned and added, “Why else would I be here?” She
tried to hide her smile, but with only little success. Sam’s grin broke
out into a smile and then, after a moment, so did hers. The mood began to
alleviate, but unfortunately the heat did not, as the morning progressed. The
heat had gotten to him as well and he took off the green and white flannel
shirt that he wore, his white undershirt spotted with sweat stains and
dirt. The majority of their treks was made in silence, the only sounds
that could be heard were the myriad of chirping birds, the rustle of
leaves, the snapping of dried twigs, and the soft crunch of earth beneath
their feet. After a couple minutes, they reached the top of the hill. “Hopefully
the bridge is over there,” she said, breaking the spell of silence. She
wiped at the beads of sweat from her forehead, smearing a bit of dirt
across in the process. “I don’t know how much further I can go on.”
Fatigue weighed heavily on her, as it did with Sam. Both silently prayed
that the bridge was nearby. “Let’s
keep moving,” Sam said. He didn’t want to take any chances that
whomever they were running from would catch up. He had no idea how long
and how far this girl and whomever he had Leaped into had been running.
However long and far it may have been Sam was definitely feeling the end
result. The girl started to stumble a bit more frequently, nearly falling
over a couple times. Each time that Sam would try to help her she would
push him away, insisting that she was fine. Sam had to get her to
somewhere safe, just long enough for him to figure out how to get her back
to her home. After the path, they continued to follow the curve around a
slope, the girl moved over to the tallest tree she could find and leaned
against it, letting out a breath of relief. “I
need to rest,” she said as she relaxed, letting her body slide to the
ground. She looked up at Sam with bleary eyes. She was barely able to keep
them open. Her vision blurred she started to see double. Sam looked around
for a moment. “All
right. You rest here while I keep an eye out.” Sam waited for a
response, but got none. He looked over at her and saw that she was already
asleep. Sam narrowed his eyes as he walked over to her, crouching down to
get a better view of her injuries. There were several bruises on her arms,
the ones that Sam seen just after he’d Leaped in, and there were more on
the back of her neck as well, all in the shape of a large thumb print. The
left side of her face was a bit swollen and she had a black eye. Sam
sighed. “What
happened to you?” he whispered. “She
was tortured, Sam,” came an unexpected reply. Sam jumped at the voice
and turned his head, finding Al standing a couple feet behind him, his
gaze fixated on the girl. Sam stood up as Al, dressed in a silver jacket,
a dark red button up shirt, black pants, and shoes, started to read off
the data from the handlink. “We don’t have much information regarding
the kidnapping, but Ziggy was able to find some missing persons report for
one Jessica Alcott, age sixteen. It says that she went missing on August
26, 1983. About two months later, a couple hiking through this area found
her body lying in a shallow grave, about a mile or so from where you’re
at.” Al lowered his eyes as he finished reading the data. “The killers
were never caught and the case remained unsolved, but you got two days
before that happens.” Al
looked over at Jessica as he spoke to Sam. The very sight of the young
woman had made the Admiral’s eyes water. Jessica Alcott’s kidnapping
reminded him of Christa’s kidnapping eleven years earlier. Although the
memories of that alternate time line were a bit hazy, the intense, heart
wrenching pain that he’d experienced as his youngest daughter’s life
was effectively ruined by the Evil Leapers was fresh. The file pertaining
to that Leap was sealed in a personal file cabinet in the Admiral’s
office, among other selected files detailing Leaps that closely affected
him and his family. A
couple of beeps from the handlink pulled Al from his painful repose as he
looked back up and covertly wiped his watery eyes. “Ah, anyway, it’s
the twenty-eight of August and you are Jeffrey Conway, age twenty-six. You
are somewhere in the woods of “What
are the odds that Jeff Conway was the killer? For all we know he
could’ve lead her out here and killed her himself.” Before Sam could
finish his sentence, the hologram was already shaking his head, dismissing
the notion. “We’ve
already run that possibility and Ziggy only gives it twelve percent. For
one thing, this guy is far too concerned about this girl’s well being
and, for another, he can’t remember much but what little he can he’s
willing to divulge. In fact there’s not much on this guy at all. Ziggy
ran a background check on him and nothing showed up. This guy’s very
clean. No, Sam, someone else killed her, but we can’t figure it out and
the only person who can, has his brains all magnafoozled.” Al lowered
the link as he went over to Jessica, looking on as a protective, concerned
father would. Smiling warmly at her he said, “Don’t you worry,
sweetheart. Sam and I will get you far away from this place... I swear
it.” The only response that Al got was a soft moan of discomfort as
Jessica shifted in her sleep. Looking back over at the Leaper he said,
“No matter what, Sam, you have to get her out of here, okay?” “I
will,” Sam said as he noted the edginess in his friend’s tone.
“Jessica mentioned something about a bridge,” he went on. “She said
that it was somewhere close to here and that it should lead us back into
town.” Al keyed in the inquiry and after a brief series of chirps and
beeps he looked back up and nodded. “Yeah,
Ziggy says that there’s a small bridge about 9.6 miles from here. She
says that if you can get to it then you’re odds of success are about 98
percent, however,” Al was a bit hesitant for a moment to rely the rest
of the calculated data, “she gives you the odds of actually making it to
the bridge before being caught only 8.2 percent. No,” Al frowned as he
slapped the side of the link, clearly confused by the sudden change of
projection. “6.2 percent... ah, 4.7... 1.4... ah geez!” Al’s eyes
widened in horror, as he started to frantically wave his arms towards
Jessica. “Sam, run! Get her out of here quick!” Just as Sam was about
to wake her up a distinct sound of an engine’s rumble broke through the
silence. Both Leaper and hologram looked up and saw the front end of a
truck coming around the corner. Sam raced over to Jessica and pulled her
up, earning a protest in the process. “Hey!
What are you doin’?” Sam already started to lead her by the hand.
Jessica pleaded as she tried to pull away from Sam’s grasp. “Hey! Let
me go! Where are you taking me?” “We
have to get out of here now,” Sam quickly said as he led her through the
trees, ducking and dodging protruding branches. Jessica was still a bit
confused, and sleep dazed, until she turned her head, the mere sight
making her blood run cold. “Please,
God, no!” She frantically cried. “How did he find us?” “Hurry!
This way!” Sam sharply turned to his left, dragging Jessica with him
practically through the trees, taking them off the main path. Her legs
started to go out under her, as she was unable to keep up with Sam. She
protested as she stumbled a bit. At one point, she fell to the ground. Sam
hurriedly picked her up and they continued their frantic run through the
woods. Behind them they could still hear the rumble of the engine;
however, with each passing moment the sound grew louder. Sam stole a
glance over his shoulder and he could see the truck barreling after them,
flattening shrubs to the ground, and sending up heavy dust clouds. Sam
spotted a turn off to his right and he led Jessica, seeing the truck make
an unexpected turn out of the corner of his eye. Jessica kept her gaze
straight ahead as did Sam, the blurred vision of the trees rushed by them.
A minute later they reached an opening and Sam and Jessica bolted through
it, only to see the white pickup truck skid into view, cutting off their
path as its back end fish-tailed, sending up a huge cloud of dirt and
dust. Sam quickly pulled Jessica in the opposite direction and managed a
running start before they heard the truck’s door fling open and the
unmistakable sound of a shotgun being pumped. Both Sam and Jessica stopped
in their tracks. Sam glanced over at Jessica and could clearly see the
terror in her eyes, as she fixated her gaze at the trees ahead. “Make
one more step and I’ll kill you where you stand.” The tone was cold,
yet strong, and commanding. “Put your hands up where I can see ‘em.”
Both Sam and Jessica did as they were told. “Slowly turn around.” They
turned around slowly and faced their captor. The man was tall; broad
shouldered, and had a thick brown beard with a head of wavy hair of same
color. His eyes were dark and narrowed, the shotgun aimed steadily at
them. “Keep your hands up and move to the truck.” Sam hesitated for a
moment then the gunman raised his weapon. “I said move it. Now.” Al
blinked into view, appearing next to their captor. “Better do what this
nozzle says, Sam. I don’t like the look in his eyes. Whatever you do, be
careful.” “Come
on,” he said, “move it. Get your asses over to the truck.” Sam and
Jessica started towards the truck, the gunman glaring viciously at Jessica
as she passed. Just before she was out of arm’s reach the gunman shifted
his shoulder, bumping her to a stop. She didn’t meet his gaze as he
spoke to her. “When we get back I’m going to teach you a valuable
lesson that you won’t soon forget.” He chuckled as Jessica started to
cry. “Get going,” he said as he roughly pushed her along. Sam glared
at him. “Leave
her alone!” he took a couple steps forward but the gunman turned and
aimed the barrel of the shotgun straight at his chest, quickly bring Sam
to a halt. “Better
watch that mouth of yours, Jeff,” he spat. Sam remained silent as he
continued on toward the truck. The gunman stayed close to Sam, guiding
them back over to the truck, the barrel of the shotgun kept pressed
against Sam’s back. When
they made their way over to the truck Sam could see a small white camper
shell affixed to the truck’s bed. The gunman moved past Sam and over to
Jessica, all the while keeping his weapon raised. “Now,” he said when
he and Jessica were standing near the tailgate, “climb in the back and
lay down.” Jessica started to shake her head as tears spilling down her
cheeks. “No,”
she cried out. “I can’t go back. Please don’t take me back!” She
looked up at Sam with watery eyes, a sudden flash of fury washing over her
youthful face. “You said you’d take me home... liar! You lied, you son
of a bitch!” The gunman laughed as Sam’s heart cried out for her,
standing helplessly by as she was shoved into the back of the truck. When
Jessica was lying down the gunman, then gave her further instructions. “Good.
Now pull the tarp over your body.” He watched as Jessica shakily pulled
the thin, blue tarp up to her neck. “All the way,” the gunman spat. He
grinned as she pulled the tarp over her head, her outlined form quivering.
Chuckling, he turned around and faced the time traveler. “Ahh,” he
said after a moment with a thoughtful expression affixed to his rugged
features, “now what am I to do with you?” It didn’t take a psychic
to know that this man was psychotic, so Sam had to carefully choose his
words. His best bet was the voice of reason... he hoped. “I-I
just was trying to do the right thing. There’s no way we’re going to
get away with this, so why not just let her go and turn ourselves in?”
Sam frowned as the words left his mouth, but immediately took a half step
back when the gunman tensed his grip on the shotgun, his eyes widening
with fury. “I
don’t believe I heard you correctly there. What did you just say?” “I
just think that…” The gunman quickly cut him off as he lowered the
weapon slightly and jabbed a thick finger at him. “That’s
your problem. You’re thinking. Telling me what’s fair and what isn’t
is an insult, Jeff.” His eyes shifted to the shotgun he held, the corner
of his mouth slightly curled. “It may take a friend to stab you in the
back, but I guess it takes someone a bit closer to stab you right in the
front.” Looking back up at Sam he said flatly, “Get in the back.
Seeing as how you two are so damned close now I think it’s only
fitting.” When Sam hesitated he quickly raised the shotgun. “I said
get your ass back there now.” Sam
nodded and started towards the truck, hands raised. The gunman grumbled
something as Sam moved past him, but what Sam didn’t see in time was the
sudden shift of the gunman’s body. Sam looked over his shoulder just as
the gunman raised the shotgun to shoulder level, swiftly bringing it in a
downward arc, taking Sam’s legs out from under him. As Sam fell to the
ground on his knees, hard, and as he was slouched over he looked up and
over just in time to see the stock of the shotgun coming down on him
rather quickly. Sam managed a brief yelp before he felt the blow right on
his forehead, and at that moment everything went black. The only sensation
that Sam Beckett felt at that moment was the sensation of movement, sliding more like it, against rough ground, moaning softly in pain
as several small rocks raked across his back. Seeing
Sam being dragged and then tossed into the back of the truck, Al sighed
helplessly. “You hang in there, kid. I’m going to go back and see what
Ziggy can dig up.” He keyed in the code for the Imaging Chamber door, a
sheet of white light appearing behind him. As Al stepped through he held
his gaze on Sam. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Al hesitated for a
moment and looked over at Jessica, his heart full of sorrow and sympathy
for her. After a moment longer, Al closed the door. Through the fog in his mind he could hear
the voice of the girl, Jessica, calling out to him. He thought he could
see her face, but the form before him was nearly obscured by the fog. The
image appeared to be reaching out to him, its voice faint but pleading,
and as Sam tried to move towards it, reaching out, the image became more
distorted until the point where it appeared to be shimmering and
stretching. Then without warning the image started to distort, taking on
an entirely new appearance. “No! I won’t leave you!” he cried out to
her, however the image shimmered, then rippled, and then broke apart to
become one with the fog. Just as despair washed over him, the fog then
seemed to swirl around him, carrying him away to some unknown destination.
~~~~~~~~~~~ The
rusty hinges of the tailgate squeaked loudly. Two strong arms reached
inside the cab, grabbed the time traveler by his ankles, roughly pulling
him down until the cool metal floor beneath him disappeared. His eyes
flashed open as he solidly landed on his back. The person, who had pulled
him out stepped around him, pulled
out another figure, throwing them just as roughly to the ground. “Get
up,” he said thickly to Sam as he reached down and grabbed the other
person by the hair. Sam tried to stand but the simple task proved to be
quite a difficult one. His legs weren’t willing to cooperate with him,
but he gritted his teeth and used what physical strength he had and pushed
himself upright. Sam blinked a couple times, his vision still a bit
blurred and fuzzy. Sam took a couple wobbly steps as the gunman continued
to pull Jessica by her hair, leading her to the front door of a small,
rustic cabin. “L-let
her go,” Sam said as he focused his sight on the husky man. The man
didn’t look over his shoulder, ignoring Sam’s words. Jessica continued
to protest, she tried to pull herself from his vise like grip, but he only
grunted and tightened his grip. With one free hand, he shoved open the
door and threw her inside. “Hurry
your ass up, Jeff,” he called out to Sam as he stepped inside the cabin.
Sam followed the man inside and found himself standing in a decent sized
room, a single window situated to Sam’s left. Sam noticed that there was
a rather old looking pair of deer antlers proudly displayed above the old
scorched stone fireplace directly across on the other side of the room.
The air had a musty taste to it, giving Sam the impression that the cabin
had not been occupied for some time; however, the crushed empty beer cans
and other miscellaneous trash told him otherwise. “Please
let me go!” Jessica hollered from somewhere in the next room. Sam
grimaced as he jerked his head toward the direction of her voice, the once
dull ache at the back of his head now having become a throbbing headache.
Sam turned to his left and jogged into the next room where their captor
was pulling her by her hair, yelling at her to be quiet. Sam went up to
him, but the older man turned around and glared at him, giving Sam a
silent warning to stay back. “Come
on. You don’t have to do this,” Sam pleaded with the man as he
continued to pull Jessica. “She doesn’t deserve this.” “Shut
up, Jeff!” he barked as he stopped to talk to Sam. Jessica had pulled a
bit too roughly for the other man’s liking, jerking his arm in the
process. He raised his one free hand and slapped her across the face. “You
bastard!” Sam started toward him, but the other man was quicker. Just as
Sam came up on him the muscular man shot out one thick arm and shoved Sam
back. As Sam tumbled to the floor and landed on his back, the man quickly
led Jessica over to a small offshoot of the room, swinging open a small
wooden door. Jessica’s gaze fell onto the minuscule closet, her eyes
going wide as her body began to tremble. “Please
don’t put me back in there,” she pleaded with the man. “I promise I
won’t try to run again.” “You’re
damn right on that one, girlie,” he replied. “You’re lucky that I
didn’t just kill you back in the woods, because it’d be quite a long
time before anybody found you... or rather what would be left of you.”
He grinned wickedly as he shoved her in the closet. He laughed as Jessica
crumpled her body against the nearest corner, sobbing loudly. “You best
knock it off with that damn crying of yours. Otherwise I’ll really give
you something to cry about.” When her sobbing was reduced to only soft
whimpering, he chuckled as he slammed the door shut when Sam came around
the corner. “You
can’t keep her locked up in there,” Sam said. “Oh
yeah?” The burly man then took a step towards Sam. “Why the hell not?
The little bitch tried running away so maybe another day in there will
straighten her out.” “Or
send her over the edge,” Sam retorted. “She
wouldn’t be the only one,” he added. Sam glared at him and then
started toward the door. “I
have to let her out,” Sam said as he started to reach for the doorknob,
but was abruptly stopped when he heard the soft click behind him. He
slowly turned around and saw the man aiming a silver revolver at Sam’s
head. “If
I were you, I’d step away from the door. Don’t think that I won’t
hesitate to paint your brains on these walls, either.” Sam raised his
hands and slowly stepped to the side, leaving enough space between himself
and the door to reassure the other man. “Good,”
the burly man said as he tipped his head. “Now don’t go doing any more
foolish tricks or you’ll be joining her in there, got me?” “Yeah,
I got you all right,” Sam he scowled at him. “Can’t
figure out what the hell’s gotten into you, Jeff, but I ain’t about to
waste anytime trying to figure it out.” He gave Sam a curious look
before heading back into the main room. Sam sighed heavily once he was out
of sight, headed back towards the closet when he heard the hydraulic sound
of the Imaging Chamber door open and close. Sam didn’t bother to turn
around. “We
need to talk, Sam,” Al said solemnly. PART
TWO Silence
followed for what seemed like an eternity before the electronic chirping
of the handlink broke the spell. Al glanced down and read the information
scrolling across the screen. He then looked up at Sam; the time
traveler’s back still facing him. “How’s the girl?” “She’s
okay for the time being,” Sam said with sadness heavy in his tone. Al
glared in the direction that the gunman had gone. “I swear to God, Sam,
that if that son of a bitch ever lays another hand on her I will Leap my
ass back here and kill him. Damn piece of…” Sam turned his head
slightly at the Observer. “Al,”
he said cutting him off, “what does Ziggy have for us?” Sam turned
around as Al quickly glanced at the handlink, taking a couple of quick
breaths, one of Verbena Beeks’ many relaxation techniques. “Well,
as far as the details about the kidnapping are concerned, we don’t have
much, however Ziggy was able to uncover some interesting information about
the “Al,
I need to get Jessica out of here, but I can’t with Wallace around.”
Hesitating for a moment, Sam knew what the answer was going to be even
before he asked it, but he needed to know for sure. Closing his eyes for a
moment he asked the hologram, “What odds does Ziggy give that I can
actually get Jessica to safety?” “Right
now less than ten percent,” Al replied after a brief consultation with
the handlink. “That
doesn’t make any sense! Why would I Leap in here if the situation
couldn’t be fixed?” “It
can be fixed, Sam. We just need to come up with a more effective way of
going about it. I refuse to believe that whoever’s Leaping you around
would send you here to watch her die.” Al punched in the code for the
Imaging Chamber door, the brilliant white sheet of light opening behind
him. “I’m going to go back and see if Beeks is having any luck with
Jeff. Whatever you do, Sam, be careful, and don’t let Jessica out of
your sight.” Sam tipped his head and Al closed the door. Quickly
looking around, Sam went over to the closet door and pressed his ear
against the door. He could faintly hear Jessica crying. “It’s going to
be okay,” Sam whispered to her. “I swear to God I’ll get you out of
here.” Her continued sobbing was his only reply. Wallace
Conway took one last, long drag on his Marlboro before dropping the short
to the floor and grinding at it with his heel. He gazed out to the wooded
landscape through the cracked and dirt streaked window. He could still
vividly remember the day that he’d heard the news about his father. He
had gone down to the prison for one of his routine visits when he was
stopped by one of the guards. The guard had told him that his father had
been stabbed to death in sleep the night before. Wallace could still feel
the intense rage and sorrow that flowed through him upon hearing the news.
The prison officials had refused to give him any more information
regarding his father’s death, but Wallace knew the truth, and it pained
him greatly to know that his father’s death had been in vain. Murdered
in his sleep... “In
his damn sleep,” he muttered loudly. His fists clenched, the skin on his
knuckles turning white. He took a couple deep breaths and forced himself
to relax. His hands slowly loosened, letting them fall to his sides, as
his memories soon took him to a simpler time, to the summer of 1962.
The
sun was high and shining down mercilessly in the clear blue sky upon the
vast woods. The chirping of the birds could be heard from every which
direction. Other than the birds the only sound that could be heard was the
soft snapping of dried twigs beneath their feet.
A middle aged balding man, clad in camouflage, stalked around a
large tree with a shotgun at the
ready, eyeing his target. Suddenly the multitude of birds scattered from
the trees, taking flight into the air as the sound of gunfire resonated
through the woods. The man’s target had run away, causing the hunter to
lower his weapon in slight frustration. “Dad!
Dad, I got ‘em!” The young teen pumped his fist in the air as he held
the rifle in the other. The father had looked over and smiled at his young
son. “Good
shot, Wally.” Standing next to Robert Conway was Wallace’s younger
brother, Jeffrey, looking on with total curiousness. “You see, son,”
Robert then said to Jeffrey, “that’s how you do it. You stick close to
your brother and you too will be a pro in no time.” Robert chuckled as
he tousled Jeff’s curly hair. “Think
so, Daddy?” Jeffrey inquired. Robert grinned. “I
know so.” “That’s
the biggest deer I’d ever seen,” Wallace had said as he ran over to
get a better view of his kill, tromping through the thick mud. He
knelt down beside the carcass; it’s sightless eyes gazing at the young
man. Wallace stared back at it, the corner of his mouth slightly curling.
“Gotcha,” he whispered to it, a moment later grinned just as his
father, and brother came running up. Wallace turned his head to see them,
still grinning. He could tell that the sight had bothered Jeffrey
slightly, probably because this was the first dead creature he’d ever
seen. “Got him good, Jeff,” Wallace said with a grin. “Right between
the eyes.” Wallace chuckled as Jeff wrinkled his nose. “Not
funny.” “Great
kill, son,” Robert said. “Guess there’s not much more to teach you.
You seem to be a natural born hunter.” Wallace stood up as Robert came
over and placed a hand on his shoulder. “I’m very proud of you, Wally,
and always will be. I love you.” “You,
too, Dad.” Robert then reached out with his arm and pulled Wallace into
an embrace. “Wallace?”
The brawny man blinked and turned his head and saw his kid brother
standing in the doorway, looking at him in a peculiar way. “What
the hell do you want?” ‘Jeff’ took a few steps towards him, the look
on his face telling that he didn’t know exactly what to say.
“You better not start on about that ‘letting her go’ bullcrap.
In fact,” Wallace said as he turned to face the younger man. “You’ve
been acting pretty damned weird lately and I don’t like it one bit.” “I-I
just think that this has gone way too far,” Sam said hesitantly. “She
needs to go back to where she belongs.” Wallace took a couple of steps
towards the physicist, jabbing a thick finger at him. “Don’t
tell me that crap! I’m doing this because I want to, okay? Because I
can. If you got a problem with it then you shouldn’t have
volunteered.” “Volunteered?
More like you forced me to,” Sam retorted. Although he didn’t know
with a hundred percent certainty the validity of that statement, his gut
instinct told him that Jeff Conway had been manipulated into this heinous
act. “You
smart-mouthed son of a bitch,” Wallace spat as he closed the space
between the two. This time Sam did not stand down, but he did notice the
revolver that was tucked inside Wallace’s waistband. “Listen here,
brother, and listen good.
We’re in this together, so don’t bail out on me now or I swear to God
you won’t make it past the front door.” Wallace stared down Sam for a
beat and then moved over to near the fireplace. “What
are you going to do with her?” Sam asked after a moment. Wallace
didn’t look back. Instead he reached up and gently touched the trophy
antlers above the fireplace. “Don’t
know just yet. I might have a little fun with her, first. Though if she
tries running away again, then I’ll just shoot the little bitch.” What
Wallace didn’t see was Sam glaring madly at him, his fists clenched
tightly. “She’ll learn pretty quick not to screw with me. And you,”
he added as he slowly turned his head, briefly catching Sam’s vicious
look, “if you ever try sneaking off like that again when I’m not
around, then I’ll bury your ass in the woods alive.” Wallace turned
around and went over to a small table and turned the knob on the small,
white radio. In between faint waves of static the song ‘T.N.T’ by
AC/DC played. Wallace drummed his fingers on the table, nodding his head
to the beat. “Damn good tune.” Sam didn’t see it at first but, under
the table on the floor, was a white Igloo cooler that Wallace pulled out.
Wallace flipped the latches, opened the lid, and pulled out a can of beer.
Sam looked away as he heard the snap of the can opening, and less than a moment later Wallace
started drinking as he reached over and turned the volume knob all the way
over to the loudest setting. I'm
dirty, mean and mighty unclean.
I'm a wanted man.
Public enemy number one,
Understand?
So lock up your
daughter.
Lock up your wife.
Lock up your back door
And run for your life.
The man is back in town,
So don't you mess around.
Cause I'm TNT! I'm dynamite.
TNT! And I'll win the fight.
TNT! I'm a power load. TNT!
Watch me explode! With
her knees drawn to her chest, she slowly rocked herself against a corner
of the small, dark closet. “Please help me,” she said in a tone hardly
above a whisper, “Somebody please help me.” As before in the past
couple days, no one responded to her plea. Not strictly true, though. The
kidnapper’s accomplice, that tall, thin, curly haired man, whom she only
knew as Jeff, tried to help her escape this morning. He said that he had
to wait till the other man had gone into town before he could make his
move. As he led her through the woods he kept apologizing to her,
insisting that he wanted no part in this. Although he had been the one who
had pulled her off the street, she had seen the look in his eyes that he
was full of remorse. She could still hear his voice, apologizing as he
grabbed her and put her in the back of the truck. “Please let me go!” She pleaded as she tried to pull away from his grasp. The yellow Schwinn she’d been riding home lay on the ground, its front wheel bent from the fall she’d taken when she rode over a rock. “I-I
have to,” he stammered as he forcibly pulled her towards the white Ford
truck. “I swear I-I’m sorry.” The look in his eyes told her that he
exactly meant just that. “Let
me go!” Her
eyes had adjusted to the dark; yet, that still didn’t shake the fear
that still had an amazing hold on her. She tried to focus on other things,
like the faint voices that she’d been hearing for a while. While she
couldn’t quite make out what was being said she did hear, a little while
ago, Jeff talking to her though the door, telling her that he would find
her a way out. She believed him, but didn’t believe that it would
happen. Still
that tiny sliver of hope was all that she had at the moment so she
held onto it tight. “Please get me out of here,” she said softly. “I
just want to go home.” Project
Quantum Leap August
1, 2007 The
Office of Rear Adm. Albert Calavicci
‘Kidnapped
Girl Found Dead’
By: Michael Hanley‘On
Sunday, October 2, the body of Jessica Alcott, sixteen, was found
in the woods of Alcott
was last seen on the evening of August 26, when she was visiting with a
friend. Her friend, identity withheld, said that Alcott left her house
around 6 P.M. riding a yellow Schwinn bicycle. The bicycle was later found
off to the side of If
anybody has any information regarding the case they are strongly urged to
contact... Al
had set the faded newspaper clipping down on his desk after reading it for
the tenth time, sighing as he removed his reading glasses, placing them
next to the article. He sat there with his eyes closed and, after a long
moment he opened them and massaged his temples, fighting off an impending
migraine. It was quiet in the office, the only sounds being the faint
rumble of the air conditioning and the creaking of his old, leather swivel
chair. “Ziggy?” he called to the hybrid computer as he leaned forward. “Yes,
Admiral?” came the feminine tone. “Any
new developments regarding Sam’s Leap?” “I’m
sorry, Admiral, but I do not detect any divergence in the current
timeline.” She wasted no time in informing the worried Observer. “As
before, the probability of success is continually diminishing. I am quite
worried that Dr. Beckett will not survive.” Al narrowed his eyes as his
fingertips brushed against the article. “Sam
will be just fine. I’m sure that he can get Jessica away from this
nozzle.” “Admiral,
I must tell you that Wallace Conway is quite an formidable adversary for
Dr. Beckett.” “I
know but there’s got to be a way for Sam to get Jessica to safety. Is
Verbena having any luck in the Waiting Room?” As Ziggy started to reply
Al went over to his file cabinet and opened the top drawer. “Dr.
Beeks is having very little success with Jeff Conway,” Ziggy said as Al
sifted through the seemingly countless manila folders until one labeled HARPER,
KIM caught his eye. Al pulled it and flipped it open as Ziggy
continued. “It seems that Mr. Conway’s memory is still a bit
magnafluxed. I don’t think we’ll get any more out of him.” “Mmm-hmm,”
Al said absently as he went back to his desk and sat down, glossing over
the report that detailed the Leap where Christa Calavicci had been
abducted back in September of 1996 by Zoë Malvison, a.k.a. the Evil
Leaper. Al’s eyes watered as he read each word, until the point where he
had to put it back in its special place in the file cabinet and take a
deep breath. “Are
you alright, Admiral?” Ziggy asked. Al quickly wiped his eyes and
nodded. “Oh,
uh, yeah I’m fine. I just need to make a phone call.” Al picked up the
sleek, slender black desktop phone and pushed the five number key that he
had programmed for his speed dial. A moment later, a very familiar and
pleasant voice picked up. “Sharpe
residence.” Al
smiled broadly. “Christa, honey. It’s your father.” “Hi,
Daddy! How are you doing?” When
he had found out that a Justice of the Peace had married Christa and
Eddie, Al was blatantly upset. Christa, however, soothed Al’s temper by
assuring him that there would still be a wedding in August for the family
and that they both intended on marrying in the Catholic Church. It was a
long, drawn out discussion that led to Christa proclaiming that she and
Eddie were going to have a baby. That alone, the fact that he was going to
be a grandfather again, helped Al to accept that his little girl wasn’t
a child anymore but rather a grown woman capable of making her own
decisions. Al
swallowed at Christa’s question and tipped his head. “I’m fine.
I’m just calling to see how the mother-to-be is feeling.” Al chuckled
as Christa let out an exasperated sigh, although Al could’ve sworn that
he heard a laugh. “Tired.
My back hurts, I can’t get comfortable, and I can’t shake this intense
craving for Mexican food.” “Where’s
Ed?” “Fulfilling
his husbandly duties. I sent him to Taco Bell.” Al
laughed. “Oh, my. You sound just like your mother did when she was
having you.” Al sat there for a moment, smiling, before he then said,
“I love you very much, Babydoll.” “Love
you too, Daddy.” There was a slight pause, and then, “Daddy?” “Yes?” “I’m
scared. I mean I’m looking forward to being a mother and all, but what
if I’m not good at it? What if I do something that…?” Al could hear
Christa’s frown as he gently interrupted her. “Oh,
I think you and Ed will be terrific parents. We know how much family means
to you. And to Ed too. It’s all he talks about, you know.” Al smiled
as Christa giggled. “I’ll call back later so you can settle back and
relax. Tell Ed I said hi.” “Will
do. Love you lots. Bye.” “Bye.”
Al was still holding the phone after Christa hung up. He set the phone
back on its base as his gaze fell back onto the faded and yellowed article
of Jessica Alcott’s kidnapping/murder. He slowly stood up, article in
hand, and started towards the door. As
he opened the door he stopped briefly, looked at the article, and said
softly, “Come on, Sam. Save her.” The
sun was beginning to set as it gave off a dark red-orange color, outlining
the few thin clouds that were present in the sky. Sam stood on the small
porch of the cabin, trying to come up with an effective plan of escape. He
spent the majority of the day sticking close to Wallace and was quite
surprised that Wallace didn’t try anything with Jessica. The
hefty man had spent the majority of the day listening to the radio and
drinking beer. Currently, he was quite intoxicated, his slurred voice
being heard from inside the cabin over the radio. As for Sam, he was
rather angered and frustrated that he couldn’t get anywhere near the
closet that Jessica was locked in without brooking threats from Wallace.
Sam didn’t dare stray far, noting that Wallace was watching him out of
the corner of his eye. He would just sit by the table, shuffling through
radio stations, and stopping every once in a while when a song that he
liked would come on, and when one beer was finished he would crack open
another. Time was running very short; Sam now had about one day left
before Jessica’s murder was to occur. No matter what he would see to it
that she wouldn’t meet that terrible fate. A
sheet of white light appeared in front of the dirt-caked Ford, the
scientist only shot a glance over at it. “Hey, Sam.” The hologram
sounded quite somber as he approached his friend. The handlink softly
chirped in his hand. “Any luck?” “No,”
Sam replied with a shake of his head, “I couldn’t get anywhere near
the closet without that pathetic drunkard threatening to kill me.” Sam
sighed as he turned around. “I don’t know what I’m going to do.
I’ve run through a million possibilities and all of them would only get
me a bullet in my head. The only possible method of escape would be to
wait until he’s asleep.” Sam looked over his shoulder. “And judging
by his current condition it looks as if I might not have to wait much
longer.” Al nodded as he looked inside the cabin and watched Wallace’s
head bob up and down, apparently trying to fight off his alcohol induced
tiredness. “I’ve
said it before and I’ll say it again, if that son of a bitch ever lays
another hand on Christa again then I’ll be the one who puts him in the
ground.” “Christa?”
Sam frowned. “Oh,
uh,” Al slightly flustered as he quickly shook his head. “I mean
Jessica.” Before Sam could question his flub, Al redirected the
conversation. “I checked with Ziggy and she’s saying that nothing’s
changed. Although we know when her body is found we don’t know when she
was killed. For all we know she would’ve been dead by now, but as long
as you’re here there is a chance, Sam.” “It
just feels like I can’t do a damned thing here, you know. I can’t
recall feeling ever so powerless. It sickens me to no end to see this man
torturing this girl.” “You’re
being nice about it.” Al sneered as his gaze caught the intoxicated
Wallace in the cabin. “I wouldn’t be calling him a man. For one, a
real man would never raise a
hand to a woman, let alone kidnap her and lock her in a dark room.” “I
know, Al. I just mean that…” Before Sam could finish his sentence they
both heard a loud scream coming from inside the cabin. Sam turned around
and bolted through the front door as Al frantically tapped at the
handlink’s keypad. “Dominic!
Center me on Jessica. Now!” Al’s image blinked out of view and
reappeared in the bedroom just as Sam came running onto the scene. “Please!
No!” Jessica sprinted as soon as the closet door opened. Two strong arms
reached inside for her, but she managed to duck them and run towards the
doorway. She only managed a couple running steps before she felt herself
being dragged back by her hair. She let out a piercing scream as she was
violently thrown to the floor. He lumbered over her, staggering a bit as
the unmistakable, sickening stench of alcohol came off of him in thick
waves. “It’s
all your fault, you little whelp,” he slurred as he reached down and
tried to grab her. She
managed to scramble away momentarily, her nails scratching against the
wood flooring. “Somebody! Please help!” She started crying. “Jeff!
Please help me,” she had said in between sobs, calling out to the only
person who could help her. Wallace
brought his hand across her face just as Sam Beckett came running into the
room. Al appeared at the same moment, materializing next to Wallace. “Jessica!”
Sam called out as he ran toward her. Wallace
whipped his head around and furrowed his brow at the young man running
towards him. “What the hell?” he asked as he saw Jeff’s face,
seemingly superimposed over another face. “There’s two of you?” he
grumbled as Sam had grabbed hold of his shoulders. However the drunken man
was a bit quicker and was able to shove Sam away. He then took two steps
forward and swung a fist at Sam’s face, but Sam managed to evade the
attack. Sam then got into a defensive stance, positioning his weight to
his right leg, timing his attack. Just as Wallace stepped into range Sam
pivoted on his heel while his left leg arched out, his foot connecting
with the side of Wallace’s head. Wallace staggered back, dazed by the
attack. “
Jessica! Quick! Run!” Al waved frantically to Jessica, although she
couldn’t hear or see him. She watched for a moment the struggle between
the two men before her gaze fell onto the doorway. She scrambled to her
feet and started running. Sam caught sight of her in his peripheral
vision. “Jessica!
Get out of here!” Wallace
too saw her run and quickly turned back just as Sam was about to place
another kick. However, this time Wallace managed to catch Sam’s foot and
twisted it, shoving Sam to the ground. He then placed three swift kicks to
Sam’s ribs for good measure. As Sam lay there on the ground, coughing
and wincing in pain, Wallace ran after Jessica. Al knelt beside Sam. “Come
on, Sam. You gotta get up! That piece of garbage is going after her...
c’mon, Sam, get up!” Al’s only reply was Sam’s agonized coughs.
After a moment Sam struggled to stand and, after another moment he managed
to stagger to his feet. “G-go
after Jessica,” Sam coughed as he tried to gather his bearings. Al
nodded and pushed a button on the handlink. His image disappeared. When
Al reappeared he was standing next to Jessica as she stood there just out
front of the cabin, looking around for a direction to take. “Don’t
stop now, sweetheart,” Al pleaded. “Keep running and don’t stop, you
hear me? Don’t stop for anything.” Jessica continued to look around
and arbitrarily picked a direction. However, just as she took a running
start, she felt something strong pull her back. Her gaze met with that of
a drunken Wallace Conway as he stood over her, staggering a bit as he
narrowed his dark brown eyes at her. “Going
somewhere, princess?” he groused. She shook her head. “Oh, I don’t
think you’re really being honest with me, now. R-remember what I said
earlier about taking off on me like that?” Wallace suppressed a belch.
“Guess I’m gonna have to teach you another lesson.” He quickly
looked around, just to make sure that no one else was around. Not that he
had anything to worry about, this cabin was so far removed from town that
barely anybody even knew of these parts of the woods. Gritting his teeth,
he brought up his hand and brought it down hard across her face. He
chuckled as she fell to the ground, moving over so that he was standing
above her, watching her for a moment as she tried to scramble away. He
studied her for a beat before kicking her twice in the ribs. Her garbled
cries for help went unheard to everyone, but Wallace and he only laughed .
He grabbed her by the hair and pulled her head up, landing a solid punch
to her nose. As Jessica lay crumpled on the ground, Wallace brought up his
hand, and used the corner of his T-shirt to wipe away some of her blood.
“It’s all your fault,” he said to her as he cleaned his hand. “And
now you’re going to pay for it.” Al’s
body trembled as he stood by, watching helplessly as Jessica Alcott was
brutally beaten. Al’s eyes widened in horror as Jessica screamed as she
tried to crawl away. “Aw, gawd,” he muttered. The handlink dropped
from his hand, vanishing as soon as it left his hand. Al’s hands then
balled into fists as Wallace grabbed her hair, pulled her head back, and
slapped her across the face repeatedly. Something
overcame the hologram. His hands suddenly relaxed, his brow furrowed for a
moment, and then his eyes started to water. “Christa,” Al said softly
as he fell to his knees, breaking down completely. Tears streamed down his
cheeks as he watched Jessica laying on the ground, barely moving, moaning
softly in pain. “Christa! Oh, God, I’m so sorry! I’m sorry...
please, let her go. I’m so sorry, Babydoll, please forgive me! This
can’t be happening!” Suddenly,
just as Sam had staggered out onto the patio, the Imaging Chamber door
appeared behind Al and, for a brief moment, two figures blinked into
existence as they pulled the broken Admiral to his feet. Both figures were
female, one African American and the other a medium-built brunette wearing
a naval uniform. They quickly brought him to his feet and escorted him
through the illuminated sheet of light. “Al!”
Sam called out just as the door closed. Wallace looked over and saw Sam
leaning against the banister, walking down the short set of steps. What
Sam saw made his blood run cold, made him stop in his tracks, ignoring the
intense pain he felt as his hand slid away from his bruised sides. “J-Jessica,”
Sam breathed as he started towards the girl after a long moment. “Oh,
no.” As he made his way over, Wallace looked on at Sam with a smirk. “I
think I made my point,” he said as he hefted the unconscious Jessica up,
draping an arm around his shoulders. “Perhaps now she won’t even think
of trying to run.” Wallace then moved Jessica back into the cabin.
“And let that,” Wallace added as he glanced at Sam’s ribs, “be a
warning to you. I hope you think twice about trying to play the hero,
otherwise I won’t be so nice next time.” Sam
glared at the man as he went inside, dragging Jessica with him. Sam stared
at the area where Al had been a couple minutes before, wondering just what
happened to his friend. Another moment later Sam turned around and went
back inside. “Sleep
tight, princess,” Wallace said with a chuckle as he shoved the still
unconscious Jessica back in the closet. As he closed the door, he turned
around and saw Sam standing in the doorway. “You
can’t keep her locked in there forever,” Sam said. “By now people
probably know that she’s missing.” Wallace looked cross. “Don’t
worry, Jeff, she won’t be in there much longer. I’m through playing
this little game. When I’m good and rested, I’m going to finish this
once and for all.” He looked at his watch and then started towards the
living room. “Oh, one more thing,” Wallace said as he stopped in the
doorway, turning his head. “If I catch you even near that closet
tonight, dear brother, I’ll blow your damn brains out.” Sam was by now
used to this man’s death threats, but he dare didn’t take the man
lightly. Sam knew pretty well that Wallace Conway was more than fully
capable of carrying out his threats. Wallace waved a hand for Sam to
follow and, after a moment, Sam reluctantly followed the burly man into
the living room. Three
hours passed before Wallace was just about asleep. Sam had listened to him
ramble on about their father, mostly, and about all the hunting trips that
they had taken during his childhood. Sam also learned from Wallace that
the cabin they were in had been built by Robert Conway before Wallace was
born. Sam found himself nodding off, too, but he struggled to stay awake.
After about a couple minutes of silence Sam looked over at Wallace and saw
him asleep, snoring softly. Sam was about to stand up when he saw the
Imaging Chamber door open next to Wallace. A tall, brunette woman clad in
a naval uniform stepped through the image and keyed in a command on the
handlink, the door closing a moment later. “Dr.
Beckett,” she said as Sam stood up. “Are you okay?” “Yeah,”
Sam whispered as he looked over at Wallace, double-checking that he was
indeed asleep. After listening to the man snore, Sam tipped his head
towards the adjoining room. When they stepped inside Sam turned around and
was actually able to remember the face of the stand-in Observer. “Julianna?”
The
woman smiled. “Glad that you remember me,” Captain Julianna
Sherman-Calavicci, USN, said. “I got here as soon as I could.
Unfortunately, Dad’s not doing too well; Verbena and “Is
he okay?” Sam asked. “He’s
resting at the moment,” Julianna said. “Verbena said that Jessica’s
kidnapping and his witnessing her beating must have triggered some
suppressed emotions that stem from Christa’s kidnapping back in ‘96.
Verbena says that somewhere in his mind he must have subconsciously
associated Jessica’s situation with Christa’s and his witnessing her
beating was the breaking point. We were monitoring him in the Imaging
Chamber when he had his breakdown, so I issued the order to have him
removed.” Julianna held up the handlink. “Don’t worry, though.
I’ll help you through this.” Sam nodded. “I
didn’t get to her in time,” Sam said as he glanced over at the closet.
“Wallace got to me before I could do anything. It’s all my fault,
Julianna. If I had gotten to her just a moment sooner then she’d
probably be safe by now.” Sam then started towards the closet. “What
are you doing?” Julianna asked as she followed the Leaper. “I’m
getting Jessica the hell out of here. Now that Wallace is asleep all I
have to do is sneak her out the door.” Julianna was tapping at the
handlink’s keypad just as Sam had started to turn the doorknob. “I
wouldn’t do that, Sam,” Julianna said after a moment of chirps and
beeps produced by the handlink. “Ziggy says that if you attempt to
escape the odds of both you and Jessica getting killed are 99.3
percent.” Lowering the link she said reluctantly, “I know you don’t
want to hear this, but you’re going to have to wait. Now’s not a good
time.” “But
he’s asleep,” Sam harshly whispered as he turned from the closet and
over to the hologram. “This is the perfect time. If not now when?” “I-I
don’t know,” Julianna stammered. “I’m just giving you the odds.
Maybe,” she added as she keyed in an inquiry on the handlink, “if you
are able to get that drunken nozzle to go into town, then maybe that would
buy you enough time to get her out.” After a brief moment of reading the
data she looked back up and smiled. “Ziggy agrees, Sam. She says that if
you can get him to go into town then you have a better chance of
success.” “That’s
great,” Sam retorted as he took a deep breath, and then letting it out
slowly. “I don’t think that Wallace will believe me if I told him the
sky is blue. Every chance I got I tried to get Jessica out of here and
every damn time he’s stopped me.” Sighing he turned to Julianna.
“I’m all out of ideas and patience here. I’ve been here for almost a
day and I haven’t been able to accomplish squat. I need to get her out
of here and soon.” “And
I agree, Sam, but now’s not the time. If you try to go out that door
then Wallace will kill the both of you before you can even step foot
outside.” “Well,
at the very least I need to stay awake through the night, keep an eye on
her.” Julianna nodded as she pushed a couple of multi colored buttons on
the handlink. “Actually,
Ziggy says that she’s safe for the night, as long as you don’t try any
escape attempts. Besides, you need your rest, Sam. Tomorrow you find a way
to get Wallace into town and that’s when you make your move.” Sam
nodded. Julianna opened the Imaging Chamber door. As she stood in the
illuminated light of the door she said, “Be careful, Sam.” Sam smiled
in return and the door closed. “Oh,
boy,” Sam muttered. He fought the incredible, strong driving urge to
grab Jessica and run, but remembering what Julianna said about his minimal
chance of success, he instead sighed and went into the living room. He
moved around the room a bit, being very careful not to wake Wallace and,
after a few moments of searching the room, he came across a waded bundle
of blankets stuffed into a corner near the fireplace. Taking the dirty
cream colored blanket he went back over to the chair that he’d been
sitting in earlier and sat down, pulling the blanket up to his chin. He
wanted nothing more than to be in the other room, but if Wallace woke up
in the morning and caught him in there then... well, Sam didn’t really
want to think about it. He closed his eyes and forced himself to relax.
Less than two minutes later, he was asleep. PART
THREE Once
again he found himself surrounded by the thick fog.
He could sense that he wasn’t alone yet everywhere he looked he
was met with the fog filled void. In this place he felt no pain, well
physically anyway, yet the ever present, ever strong feeling of guilt
weighed upon him. He wanted to
scream, wanted to throttle the man who was responsible for this impossible
situation, but he felt powerless to do so. “Help
me.” The soft, feminine voice floated from seemingly out of nowhere. Sam
turned his head, looking over his shoulder. “Jessica?
Where are you? I can’t see you.” “Why
are you letting this happen? I’m going to die and it’ll all be your
fault.” “What?
No. I’m here to help you.” “And
that’s why that man nearly beaten me to death? You were there and you
did NOTHING!” “Jessica,
I’m so sorry. Believe me I will get you to safety.” As Sam continued
to look around in the void, an image started to emanate in front of him.
Within moments the blurred apparition of a blond haired woman stood...
floated, more like it, and appeared to be shaking her head. “If
you wait any longer it’ll be too late and we’ll be dead. You have to
act NOW. You hear me? Don’t let that man kill me.” “I
won’t!” Sam called out to her. The image started to back away, and
soon disappeared into the fog once more. The image separated and stretched
to the point where it became one with the fog. “I
won’t leave you!” Sam yelled to the fog. Sam then felt himself being
pulled back at such an incredible speed. The fog whipped by him, building
up speed until everything became such a blur. “Jeff?” When
the rushing sensation reached an apex he felt himself being pulled upward. “Jeff!
Wake up!” Sam’s
eyes flashed open and for a moment he didn’t recognize the wooly face
staring down at him. After a beat, Sam slowly nodded as he sat upright. “What
the hell was that all about?” Wallace actually appeared to be concerned. “Oh,
uh, I must have had a nightmare,” Sam said. Wallace
grimaced. “Yeah well it was your damn hollerin’ in your sleep that
woke me up.” Wallace looked at Sam for another moment before going over
to the front door, opening it. Sunlight quickly filled the room, the
pleasant chirping of birds echoing through out the woods, and a warm
breeze gently washed over Sam and Wallace. “This would be a great day
for some hunting, wouldn’t you think, Jeff?” Wallace asked as he
stepped out onto the porch and gazed at the wooded landscape. Sam stood up
and met him outside. Judging by how high the sun was, Sam guessed that it
was no later than about ten o’clock. “Ah,
well, you see,” Sam stammered, “I’m not quite a good hunter so, ah,
if you wouldn’t mind I think I’ll just stay here.” Wallace didn’t
bother to look over at Sam when he replied. “If
you think I’m going to leave you alone here then you’re out of your
mind. Besides I think that we could use the time. We haven’t gone on one
of our trips in a while.” “Well,
yeah, but I’m not quite feeling up to it.” Sam offered a sheepish
smile, but only earned a glare from Wallace. “Figures,”
he said after a moment. “You were never one for hunting much. Ever since
we were kids you would get queasy seeing anything dead. Wimp.” Wallace
then went back inside the cabin, Sam following close behind. “Well I’m
going to go get ready, Jeff. I got some hunting gear for you, too.” Sam
sighed. It was clear that Wallace was intent on getting Sam to come with
him, to keep him as far from Jessica and in his sights. “Okay,”
Sam said as Wallace went over to the chest of drawers in the other room
and pulled out the top drawer. Stripping down to his boxers, he began to
change into his camouflage and boots. When he was finished dressing, he
then slipped on a leather knife holster that rested on his chest. Sam
walked in the room just as Wallace slipped the serrated hunting knife in
the holster, grimacing at the very sight. Wallace then leaned down, pulled
out the bottom drawer, looked at its contents, or rather its lack of
contents. “Son
of a bitch,” Wallace spat. “I can’t believe this.” “What
is it?” “I’m
out of ammo for the shotgun,” Wallace answered as he clenched his fist
in frustration. “Thought I had another box. Damn it.” He sighed
heavily as he shoved the drawer closed and stood up. He moved past Sam and
into the living room. “Looks like I need to make a quick stop to
Ray’s.” “Ray’s?”
Sam questioned as a shimmer of hope began to manifest. This could be the
moment that Sam needed. “Uh,
yeah, Jeff. Ray Parker? Runs the gun shop?” Wallace was looking at Sam
as if he’d lost his mind. “Oh,
Ray’s. Yeah, right.” Wallace shook his head and muttered something as
he shoved his hand in his pocket and fished around for his keys. A moment
later, he pulled out a set of keys and started towards the door. He looked
over his shoulder. “What
are you waiting for? Shake a leg, Jeff,” Wallace said as he then took a
step through the doorway. Sam took a deep breath before trying to convince
this madman to leave him behind. “Uh,
Wallace. Perhaps I should stay behind.” Before Sam could continue
Wallace stopped in mid stride and turned around, glaring at Sam. “Damn
it, Jeff! I thought we went over this already. If you think that I’m
going to be stupid enough to leave you alone with her-”
“Listen,”
Sam interrupted, “if we both leave then the chances of something
happening while we’re gone are pretty great. For all we know somebody
could come across the cabin and eventually find Jessica. If one of us
stays behind, then we won’t be running that risk.” Wallace looked
incredulous. “I know you don’t trust me here but you’ve... already
shown me what would happen if I tried anything again and trust me,
Wallace, I don’t particularly like being buried alive.” Sam offered
with a smirk. Wallace actually seemed to be considering the notion. “Jeff, these parts of the
woods are barely known by most of the people in “Sure,”
Sam replied. Wallace eyed him skeptically for another moment before
opening the truck door and climbing in. Sam watched him as he started up
the truck and backed out. Sam looked on with a smile that he could barely
hold back as Wallace drove down the worn dirt path, and when he’d
disappeared around a corner, Sam turned around and bolted through the
doorway, through the living room to the bedroom. When Sam was standing in
front of the closet he went to turn the knob however to his dismay the
door was locked. “Damn,” Sam muttered. Taking a couple steps back Sam
called out to Jessica. “Jessica! Get back! I’m going to kick the door
in.” After a couple of strong, well placed kicks the door swung open,
sending slivers of wood to the floor. Sam smiled as he took a step inside. She
had heard him call out to her, although she didn’t answer. She heard him
say something about kicking the door in. She backed herself into the
corner as far back as she could and, just as she squeezed her eyes shut,
the sound of splintering wood filled the closet as light suddenly shot
through the cramped darkness. She
kept her eyes closed as Jeff helped her to her feet, although there was
something different about him. He sounded... different to her, older
actually. When she cracked open an eye she saw someone else standing in
front of her, smiling at her reassuringly. When both eyes were open she
took a step back, confused and frightened. “W-who are you?” Sam’s
eyes narrowed. “You...
can see me?” he asked. She slowly nodded. “I’m here to help you.” “Where’s
Jeff?” Sam
thought for a moment and then smiled at her reassuringly. “He’s not
here right now, but he’ll be back soon.” Sam wasted no time as he
started to remove the thick layers of duct tape that were bound around her
wrists. She squeezed her eyes shut as the glue of the tape pulled at her
skin, causing her to wince. When Sam was finished he tossed the wadded
tape on the ground and helped Jessica to her feet. She looked up at him
curiously. “Who
are you?” “My
name’s Sam,” the Leaper said with a smile, “and I’m here to get
you out. Come on.” With those words said he led Jessica outside the
cabin and down the porch steps, where he stopped briefly as he tried to
ascertain a direction to take. “Damn it!” “There,”
Jessica said as she pointed directly ahead of them. Sam tipped his head
and, holding her hand, started towards the woods. They ran as fast as they
could, ducking and weaving past the trees that towered over them. Dried
dirt crunched and twigs snapped under their feet as they ran towards their
unknown destination. Without Julianna here to help guide him Sam had no
telling where this bridge was supposed to be so, the only thing to do at
this point was to guess. For the next ten minutes Sam led Jessica through
the woods, leading her past a small hill and across a small creek. At one
point Jessica tripped over a protruding rock and fell into the creek. Sam
stopped and held out a hand for her. “Are
you okay?” Sam asked. Jessica nodded. “Yeah,
I’m fine. Just banged up my knees a bit.” She brushed her hands
against her knees, knocking off some clumps of mud that clung to them.
“Let’s hurry.” Sam and Jessica continued on their path. Just past
the creek the land ascended a bit and, before they could reach the top
they saw the dreaded dirt caked Ford truck parked, with Wallace leaning
against the truck smoking a cigarette. He grinned and flicked the
cigarette as Jessica screamed. “No!” Turning to a startled Sam she
asked, “How’d the hell did he find us?” Sam
glared at Wallace. “Out of ammo?” Sam asked with a raised eyebrow.
Wallace smirked as he pulled out the shotgun from the truck and aimed it
at Sam. “Not
now,” Wallace replied smugly. “Don’t
let him take me away, Sam,” Jessica pleaded. Wallace frowned at her
words. “I
hope that this ‘Sam’ is the name of your guardian angel because,”
Wallace paused as he chuckled, “you’re going to need him.” At that
moment the Imaging Chamber door opened, appearing next to Jessica, and
Julianna hurriedly stepped through, quickly tapping at the handlink’s
keypad. “Sam!
Thank God I found you,” she said as the door closed. “Ziggy said
that-” She abruptly stopped what she was saying as she caught sight of
Wallace Conway. “Damn it! I thought I had enough time.” Jessica looked
over at Julianna. Julianna met her gaze and asked her if she could see
her. Jessica answered her with a slight tip of the head. The handlink
chirped. “I know, Ziggy, but what can I do? I’m a damned hologram!” “Get
in the truck,” Wallace said calmly. Jessica started toward the truck,
but Sam reached out and stopped her. “Let
her go, Jeff, and get in the truck.” After a moment Sam closed his eyes
and when he opened them saw Wallace grinning. “You knew that I’d run,
didn’t you,” Sam inquired, although he sounded more as if he were
stating a well-known fact. “Do
you really think I’d come all the way out here without bringing enough
of what I need?” Wallace shrugged his shoulders. “I was more curious
to see how far you would get. After I left I parked the truck behind the
trees and watched you take the whelp and run. From there I followed you.
So damned predictable. Honestly, Jeff, I’m surprised that you didn’t
see me.” After a brief laugh Wallace then repeated, “Now, get in the
truck if you don’t prefer me to shoot you here and leave you to the
wolves.” Sam and Jessica headed towards the truck defeated. “I’m
working on a way out for you,” Julianna said. “Just hang in there
until we get back to the cabin.” Sam looked at her, but said nothing. As
Jessica was once again placed in the back of the truck Sam was surprised
that Wallace asked him to ride up in the front with him. As Jessica made
her way to the back of the truck, she looked over at Julianna. “Help,”
she whispered as she climbed inside. Julianna smiled sympathetically as
her eyes watered. “I
will. I swear to God, I will.” The
ride back to the cabin only took about six minutes but not a word was
said. Sam noticed that the truck was outfitted with a CB radio. When they
reached the cabin Wallace pulled the truck around to the side. When he
stepped out, he slammed the door shut, went around, and opened the
tailgate. He reached inside, grabbed Jessica tightly, dragged her out, and
threw her on the ground as Sam came around the corner. He started to go
over to Jessica and help her up, but Wallace called to him. “What?”
Sam asked as he turned around. Wallace propped the shotgun against the
passenger side door as he withdrew the revolver from his waistband. “Remember
what I told you last time?” Wallace narrowed his eyes as he took aim. “Hey,
look,” Sam started as he was barely able to mask his nervousness, “you
don’t have to do this.” “I
gave you fair warning, Jeff.” Before Sam could say any more Wallace
fired off a single shot, the bullet tearing through Sam’s right
shoulder. Sam clutched his shoulder as Wallace took aim once more as a
thin wisp of smoke still trailed out of the barrel. “Sam!”
Julianna screamed. Sam gritted his teeth as he pressed his left hand
against his shoulder, blood flowing from the wound, between his fingers,
and dripped onto the dirt. “You son of a bitch!” Julianna yelled as
she stepped in between Wallace and Sam. Wallace walked through her image
as he kept his gun aimed at Sam, who by now was on his knees while still
trying to apply pressure to his wound. “It
kills me to have to do this but you’ve left me very little choice.”
Wallace curled his index finger around the trigger as Sam looked up at him
with glazed eyes, his gaze locking onto the revolver. “So long, brother.
Tell Dad ‘hello’ for me.” Wallace aimed the gun at Sam’s head and
was about to fire when Jessica knocked him back as she threw herself into
him, in turn throwing off his aim just as he pulled the trigger. The
second bullet passed completely through Sam’s left side. Julianna cried
out his name as Sam crumpled to the ground, a pool of blood slowly forming
around him. Jessica continued to wrestle with Wallace as Julianna looked
on in horror. “Get
off me, you little bitch!” Wallace brought back the revolver and slammed
the handle down on Jessica’s left temple. Wallace grabbed her shoulders,
shoved her back, her unconscious form falling next to Sam’s. Wallace
tucked the revolver back in his waistband as he walked over to them.
Sighing, he reached down; grabbed Sam and pulled him up. Julianna glared
at him as he dragged Sam up the porch steps and into the cabin, leaving a
trail of blood behind them. Wallace stopped in the bedroom. He dropped Sam
as he bent down and pulled aside the floor rug, revealing a faint outline
of a rectangle with a protruding handle. Swinging open the door, he
quickly peered into the darkness for a moment and then nodded. The white
wooden steps that led downward seemed to vanish into the darkness about
half way down. Leaning over, he grabbed Sam by the arm and pulled him over
to the opening. He then positioned Sam’s body at the foot of the steps
and, with one great push; Sam Beckett tumbled down the stairs, his arms
banging against the banisters along the way. Wallace smirked as he heard
the sickly thud as Sam collided
with something quite heavy at the bottom of the steps, which was quickly
followed by the unmistakable sound of glass shattering. “Your
ass is mine,” Julianna spat viciously as Wallace closed the door and
walked through her. Julianna keyed in a command on the handlink and in a
blink of an eye found herself standing next to the unconscious Jessica
Alcott outside. A moment later Wallace emerged from the cabin and went
over to her, picking her up and carrying her over his shoulder. When he
stepped back in the living room he dropped her body on the wood floor. The
collision of her head to the floor woke Jessica up. She looked around for
a moment in a dazed state. “Just
hang in there, sweetie,” Julianna said to her, although it appeared as
if Jessica didn’t hear her this time around. “Wha-what
are you going to do to me?” Jessica stammered as Wallace closed the
front door. She flinched when he turned back around and grinned at her. “Well,
princess, first I’m going to have a bit of fun with you. If I have to
bear your company I might as well ‘enjoy’ it.” He laughed as he went
over to the window and looked out, gazing onto the tall Douglas fir trees
that towered over the cabin, providing shade from the unrelenting heat. “Are
you going to kill me?” A couple of tears trickled down her dirtied
cheeks as she looked to the ground, the mere sight of the man terrifying
her beyond comprehension. “Yes,”
Wallace said after a moment, “although I wouldn’t worry too much about
that just yet.” He turned back and went over to his rocker chair,
patting her on the top of her head as he passed by. Jessica remained where
she was as Wallace sat down in the chair, smiling at her. “Oh,
sweetheart, we’re going to have such fun.” Wallace laughed as Jessica
started to cry. “Not
if I have anything to do about it,” Julianna retorted as she opened the
Imaging Chamber door. She stepped through the door, glared at Wallace, and
after a moment she closed the door. Project
Quantum Leap Control
Room The
holographic image hadn’t dissipated completely before Julianna made her
way down the ramp that led from the Imaging Chamber to the center console
in the Control Room. Dominic Lofton looked up as she approached him, and
before he could say anything Julianna tossed the handlink to Dominic, who
barely caught it, and turned to Dr. Tina Martinez-O’Farrell. “Tina, go
get me a Fermi suit.” Tina hesitated for a moment she quickly averted
her gaze from the Navy Captain. “Now, Tina.” This time the Pulse
Communications Technician wasted no time as she hurried off towards the
lockers where the Fermi suits were kept. Julianna turned around and went
to the control panel where Dominic Lofton stood, reading the data, and
recording it. “I
think you should take a look at this,” Dom said as he handed Julianna a
faded piece of newspaper. “The Admiral had this on him when we had him
placed in the infirmary.” Upon looking at it more closely Julianna found
that it was a news clipping from the Morristown Post Dispatch dated
October 3, 1983. ‘Two
Bodies Found Near Hiking Trail’ By: Michael Hanley
‘On
Sunday, October 2, two decomposed bodies were found
in the woods of Jessica
Alcott was last seen on the evening of August 26, when she was visiting
with a friend. Her friend, identity withheld, said that Alcott left her
house around 6 P.M. riding a yellow Schwinn bicycle. The bicycle was later
found off to the side of If
anybody has any information regarding the case they are strongly urged to
contact the Julianna
sighed as she handed the article back to Dominic. Tina came back a minute
later, handing Julianna a neatly folded Fermi suit. Julianna took it and
smiled at the nervous technician. “Dom, locate and upload Retrieval
Program 32A. I believe that was the latest one Dr. Fulton was working on
before she left to go on vacation.” As Dom pulled up the Retrieval
Program he looked up at the sparkling, swirling blue orb of the parallel
hybrid computer. “Ziggy,
what are the odds of Captain Sherman-Calavicci’s return with conjunction
of Retrieval Program 32A?” “98.2
percent, Doctor Lofton,” Ziggy replied almost immediately. Dom
nodded and then glanced at Julianna and then smirked. “Could you tell me
the odds of a successful retrieval with Dr. Beckett?” “Unknown.
Over the past twelve years Dr. Beckett’s constant blending with other
people have made it quite difficult to ascertain a steady projection.” When
Julianna only blinked, Dom’s smirk grew into a smile. “I know what
you’re thinking, Captain. But, what are you going to say to Senator
Blaize or even Jude? It’s bad enough that Doctor Elesee and Stephen
don’t have Sam with them, but your father would kill me if I let you go
in the Accelerator.” Julianna
tipped her head towards the orb. “You heard the odds, Dom. It’s a sure
thing.” When he only frowned at her words she added, “Besides I would never
leave behind the man I love and my son. You won’t have to tell them
a thing. And if it comes up while I’m gone, you can tell them that I
will be back in no time but this is something that I have to do. Don’t
worry. I’ll be back before you know it and I’ll make sure that Dr.
Beckett comes with. And,” she grinned at Dominic, “if all goes
according to plan then my father won’t even know I’ve Leaped until
after I get back. Trust me. I know how to handle my father.” “Captain,”
Ziggy said as Julianna smiled at Dom, “I should inform you that although
the outcome of a successful retrieval with Dr. Beckett is unknown, you do
risk a 20.6 percent probability that, if you fail you might become
integrated into Dr. Beckett’s Leaping matrix, joining him as a random
Leaper.” “Ziggy,”
Julianna said after a moment of uncomfortable silence, “how much longer
does Dr. Beckett have?” “After
observing the current situation, I calculate that he’s has about 15.6
minutes until he succumbs to his injuries.” “That’s
it. Dom, fire up the Accelerator,” Julianna said as she left to go
change into the Fermi suit. Dom
thought about challenging it, but he knew all too well that when it came
to certain matters that Julianna was too much like her father. So instead,
he started keying in the coding sequence on the control panel to bring the
Accelerator online. About
a minute later, Julianna came back wearing the skintight Fermi suit,
tugging at the collar. Dom looked up at her; however, this time Beth,
Donna, Stephen, Tina, and Ensign Edward Sharpe, were all standing by the
control panel, each wearing their own worried look. “Accelerator
is just about online,” Dom announced as he finished programming the
sequences. “You’re going to need an Observer so we’re going to have
Ziggy act as the E.O.H. once you arrive, although it’ll take up quite a
bit of power so she won’t be able to be there for long periods of
time.” “Good,”
Julianna replied. “I need you to target the Leap for Jessica Alcott and
set the date for August 29, 1983.” As Dom made the necessary
configurations, Julianna looked over at Ensign Sharpe, who stood at
attention awaiting her orders. “Ensign, I need you to have an EMT posted
outside the Waiting Room as soon as I Leap out. Once Ms. Alcott arrives, I
want her taken to the infirmary ASAP.” “Yes,
ma’am,” Ensign Sharpe said as he hurried off towards the infirmary. “Julianna,”
Beth started to say something, but stopped shortly, not quite sure what to
say. She could obviously see the determination in Julianna’s eyes. “Be
careful, okay?” was all that she could say for the time being. “I
will, Mama Beth,” Julianna told her with a gentle smile. “Good
luck,” Stephen added as he stood close to his mother. “Take care of my
Dad.” Donna remained silent however she visibly wore her concern.
Julianna gave her a reassuring smile.
“I’ll
be fine, Doctor,” Julianna assured her, “and I’ll do everything in
my power to bring Dr. Beckett home with me.” “Everything
is set and ready to go,” Dom said after a moment as he glanced over the
data readouts. Julianna nodded and started towards the ramp that would
lead her to the Accelerator Chamber. Julianna was stopped abruptly when
Ziggy called for her. “Yes,
Ziggy? What is it?” “I
thought I should tell you that I have come across some very vital
information which will help you accomplish yours and Dr. Beckett’s
task.” “I’m
all ears,” Julianna replied. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Jessica
drew her knees up to her chest, slowly rocking herself as she watched
Wallace in his chair, sipping at a can of beer, grinning at her, like he
had some secret that he wanted to share. She winced as she sniffed; her
nose was swollen and most likely broken. The intense headache she’d been
having ever since she regained consciousness reached the back of her eyes,
making them feel as if they were going to pop out of their sockets. “Where’s
Sa-uh, I mean Jeff?” She remembered the man calling himself Sam, but for
some reason this man still believed that Sam was Jeff so she decided not
to further anger him. “Let’s
just say that he won’t come running to your rescue any time soon,”
Wallace replied with a chuckle as he sipped his beer. “That I made damn
sure this time.” “Is
he dead?” “Not
yet, if he hasn’t bled to death already. Sweetheart,” Wallace said
with a grin, “I wouldn’t be too concerned about him. We’re about to
have some fun.” Jessica shrank back as Wallace smiled and sipped his
beer. “Oh...
God,” Jessica breathed. “Help me.” After a few more minutes Wallace
drained the beer and set the can down as he turned on the radio, filling
the room with the tune of an old Rolling Stones song. When he slowly stood
up he went over to the window and pulled back the thin, flimsy drapes.
Wallace then looked back over at Jessica, his gaze sweeping across her
trembling body. He licked his lips as he started to unbuckle his belt. I
see a red door and I want it painted black.
“Please,”
Jessica pleaded with Wallace as he calmly walked towards her, “don’t
hurt me.” When Wallace was about within arm’s reach she ducked her
head between her knees. “Don’t touch me... please I beg you.”
Julianna
let her arms float upward, the atomic wind rushing out from under her as
the euphoria took its hold over her. She smiled and even allowed herself a
yell of excitement as she held her arms out and her head up. She could
feel the energy building around her as the wind increased in velocity. “Sigmatron
online,” Dom announced. “Stand by to fire.” Donna stood nervously
by, her hand hovering over the panel that would activate the Accelerator.
Beth, Tina, and Stephen stood by, all quite nervous and worried at the
same time. “Fire!” Dom shouted. Donna firmly placed her hand on the
blinking blue panel. A thin blue line emanated from the panel to the orb
where, a moment later it converted the energy into two concentrated
streams of lightning which in turn fed directly into the Accelerator
Chamber. Julianna
could feel a tingle begin to flow from her feet, up her legs and then
spread out over her body. The soft hum that filled the Accelerator Chamber
had picked up and became a loud squeal and, within moments, everything
around her screamed with brilliant blue light. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Jessica
screamed as Wallace reached down to grab her. She looked up and managed to
lean out of the way as she started to crawl against the wall. Wallace
laughed as he reached down and grabbed her by her neck, forcefully
squeezing his hand as he pulled her back and flung her across the room. I
look inside myself and see my heart is black. “Little
bitch,” Wallace spat as Jessica tumbled to the ground. “Teach you to
run from me.” He grinned as he stalked towards her. “Don’t you want
to have a little bit of fun?” “Please!”
Jessica pleaded. “Let me go! I promise I won’t tell anyone. Please!” “Sorry,
princess, but no can do.” Wallace grabbed his dangling belt buckle;
slipped the belt out, and tossed it on the ground. Jessica managed to
crawl back as Wallace advanced on her. He started to undo his jeans when
Jessica felt a strangle tingle course through her legs, almost as if they
suffered from poor blood circulation. When the tingle grew and spread
through out her body, she squeezed her eyes shut just as she was engulfed
in blue light.
“Better
stop your crying,” Wallace was saying as he started to pull down his
jeans. He grinned broadly at the terrified and confused young girl who was
lying at his feet. He saw Jessica look at him for a moment as if she’d
just seen him for the first time, the terrified look gone and replaced by
that of confusion. “What the hell is wrong with you? Forget where you
are?” Wallace started laughing as he continued to pull his jeans down
till they were at his knees. Even
as the rest of the quantum energy lingered away, Julianna could see the
burly man standing over her with his pants pulled to his knees, and heard
a loud muffled sound coming from somewhere nearby. When the ringing in her
ears had subsided, she could tell that it was a song playing on a radio
somewhere in the room. After a quick moment, she was able to gather her
bearings and grit her teeth. “You better get the hell away from me,”
she spat. Wallace
stopped what he was doing as he cocked his head. “Well, what do we have
here? Think you can talk to me like that and get away with it?” He
sneered at her as he went to grab her by the neck. I
wanna see it painted, painted black, Project
Quantum Leap Control
Room For
a long moment silence fell upon the usually busy Control Room. Donna and
Beth exchanged worried glances as Dom read the readouts on the control
panel. Stephen was the first one to break the silence. “Did
she make it?” Stephen asked as he looked up at the blue orb. It didn’t
take the computer but a moment to respond. “Captain
Sherman-Calavicci’s Leap was a success, there are now two Visitors in
the Waiting Room.” Everyone had let out a sigh of relief as Dom went
about recording the data. “Now
recording all data streams,” Dom said. Ensign
Edward Sharpe and Verbena Beeks stood outside the Waiting Room with the
EMT that the Captain ordered to be posted. When Ed heard Ziggy’s
announcement, he tipped his head towards the Emergency Medical Team as
Verbena keyed in her access code. The Waiting Room door slid open and the
EMT quickly filed in while pushing a gurney with Ed and Verbena close
behind. The current Visitor, Jeff Conway, was kneeling beside the other
Visitor, who was curled into the fetal position just under the examination
table, gently reassuring her. “There,”
Ed said to the team as he pointed to the Visitor, who appeared to be the
Captain. “Get her to the infirmary ASAP.” The EMT wasted no time as
they gently lifted Jessica Alcott onto the gurney and wheeled her out,
leaving behind a confused and angered Jeff Conway. “Hey!”
Jeff shouted. “Where are you taking her?” Ed
started towards the Visitor, but Verbena held up a hand, stopping Ed but
never took his eyes off the Visitor. Verbena smiled at him and reassured
him Jessica’s safety. “How
do I know that? You guys haven’t really told me much of what’s going
on here, you know. Hell, I don’t even know where here
is.” Jeff looked around the Waiting Room, sighing in frustration.
“Damn, I don’t even know how I
got here.” “Please
relax, Mr. Conway, both you and Jessica are safe here.” Verbena replied
as the Visitor met her gaze. Jeff
ran a hand through his curly brown hair. “You don’t understand,
Doctor,” he said as he thought of how to explain to the doctor just
exactly what he was able to recall. “My brother is a very dangerous man
and I’m afraid that he might very well kill your friend who’s back
there. I took a big risk on trying to get her out when he went into town;
I couldn’t stand to hear her screams anymore. I swear I tried talking
him out of it, but he wouldn’t listen to me. I didn’t want to do it,
but he made me.” Jeff met Verbena’s unwavering gaze. Jeff’s eyes
widened as a memory suddenly came to him, with crystal clear clarity.
“He handed me the picture of the girl we were supposed to nab. He even
knew where to look for her. He said that if I didn’t help him then
he’d kill me. All of this,” he said with disgust, “and someone
completely innocent is paying for it.” Verbena nodded as she guided Jeff
back to the examination table. After a moment he hesitantly sat down next
to Verbena. “I just want her to be safe,” Jeff said to her. “I
understand, Mr. Conway, and I can assure you that Ms. Alcott is in very
capable hands.” Verbena noticed the peculiar look on the young man’s
face at the mention of her name. PART
FOUR Julianna
quickly stood to her feet as Wallace looked at her, completely astonished.
“What
the...?” Wallace mused out loud as he stopped in mid stride, his
outstretched hand slowly lowering as his confusion grew. Julianna
glared at him, her hatred towards the sociopath fresh in her memory. In
fact, as she regained her bearings, she could recall with clarity Dr.
Beckett’s shooting, Jessica Alcott’s brutal beatings, and her goal of
bringing Dr. Beckett home with her. “So you think you can abduct and
abuse young girls, huh?” Wallace narrowed his eyes at her. “Why
don’t you try those moves on a woman?” “Bitch,”
Wallace growled as he pulled his pants up, balled his hand into a fist,
and swung at Julianna. Julianna easily leaned out of the shot and grabbed
his arm, twisting it behind his back. Wallace grunted in pain as Julianna
tightened her grip. “You better let me go, girlie, before I put a real
hurtin’ on ya.” Julianna
jerked his arm up for a moment before releasing her grip and shoving the
man away, as she pulled his revolver from his waistband. Wallace spun
around and his eyes went wide. After a beat, he regained his composure.
“What are you going to do? Shoot me.” Julianna
tilted her head as she aimed the revolver at Wallace’s chest. “Quite
tempted,” she replied as she recalled with painful clarity how Sam lay
on the ground, bleeding, and suffering. And she recalled how Jessica
screamed and pleaded with this man to let her go. Hatred coursed through
her veins as she kept her aim. “Where would you like it? Arm, leg,
chest?” “You
wouldn’t-” Wallace abruptly stopped talking when Julianna cocked the
hammer, the mere click of the
hammer silencing the kidnapper. “You
ignorant son of a bitch,” Julianna said, “you don’t even know what
I’m fully capable of. Tell me, Wallace, how do you like being on the
receiving end for a change? Doesn’t feel so good, does it?” “As
soon as I get out of this, you’re dog meat,” Wallace responded. “You
think you can aim a gun at me and scare me? Believe me, this ain’t
shit.” Julianna’s index finger started to curl around the trigger.
Wallace kept his gaze on her as Julianna started to squeeze the trigger. “It
ends here,” Julianna said, “and it ends now.” Julianna’s heart was
hammering in her chest as a faint sweat started to break out on
Wallace’s forehead. “I won’t let you harm another person as long as
I’m alive and breathing.” Julianna’s eyes narrowed as her finger
tensed on the trigger. “Go
ahead,” Wallace said gruffly, “pull the damned trigger.” He could
see the look in her eye and smirked. “You think you’ve got what it
takes then be my guest.” He took a step forward. “Stay
back,” Julianna exclaimed; however, she could feel her mind
intermingling with Jessica’s, as Julianna suddenly found herself very
intimidated and frightened. “I’m warning you.” Wallace took another
step. And then another. And before Julianna knew it he had his hand on the
gun and was lowering her hand as tears welled in her eyes and started to
spill down her cheeks. Just before Wallace could take the gun, Julianna
blinked, her mind suddenly reemerging. Just as quickly, she brought her
hand up and cuffed Wallace under his chin. “Damn
little bitch,” Wallace said as he wiped his mouth and spat blood. It
appeared that when Julianna hit him, he had bit down on his lip. “Now
you’ve asked for it.” As
he closed the distance between them, Julianna brought her knee up,
slamming it into Wallace’s groin. His eyes bulged as he doubled over.
Julianna met him with an uppercut that neatly knocked him to the ground. “Where’s
Sam?” Julianna asked as she stood over him. Wallace squeezed his eyes
shut and gritted his teeth as he lay on the floor, moaning in pain and
grabbing his groin. “Who?”
Wallace seethed. Julianna
quickly shook her head. “Uh, Jeff. Where’s Jeff?” When she didn’t
get an immediate response she knelt down, grabbed his hair, and roughly
pulled his head up, bringing his face to hers. She could smell the alcohol
and grimaced. “Where is Jeff, you piece of shit?” “Still
locked... in the cellar,” Wallace replied in between breaths.
“Doesn’t matter anyway, he’s probably dead by now.” Julianna
slammed his head down on the wood floor, briefly closing her eyes as she
heard the loud smack. As
Wallace Conway lay unconscious, she stood up and went into the other room
where she found that the floor slightly slanted upward. Jogging over to
it, she looked down and found that the door hadn’t closed all the way.
Opening it the rest of the way, she made her way down the stairs, finding
a cord dangling from the ceiling and tugging it. A light bulb flickered
for a moment and then bathed the small cellar with soft white light. When
Julianna came to the last couple of steps she saw the bloodied,
unconscious form of Jeff Conway crumpled on the floor, large pieces of
wooden shelving laying on top of him with other, smaller, splintered
pieces laying around him. Shards of dusty green glass had fanned out from
where he had fallen. The cellar was filled with the aromas of different
wines intermingled with dust. “Dr.
Beckett,” she breathed with relief as she went over to him, kneeling
beside him. “Sam, can you hear me?” ‘Jeff’ moaned softly in
response. She called him by his actual name once more, this time slowly
bringing him to consciousness. He looked up at her, his eyes a bit glassy.
He tried to focus them on the young, battered blond haired girl staring at
him with much concern. Had Sam not been in excruciating pain he would’ve
wondered how she escaped Wallace Conway. “Jessica?”
he murmured. Julianna shook her head and smiled. “It’s
me.” She slipped the revolver into her waistband as she gently reached
out and held his hand. As soon as they made physical contact the images of
Jeff Conway and Jessica Alcott respectively shimmered and warped, and
within moments Sam Beckett found himself staring into the eyes of Al’s
oldest daughter. “Julianna?”
Sam asked. Julianna’s smile spread across her face. “But... how’d
you...?” “Once
Wallace shot you and attempted to rape Jessica, I had no choice but to
come back here. If I didn’t, then Wallace would’ve killed both you and
Jessica.” “Jessica,”
Sam said as he tried to sit up, the memories came flooding back. “How is
she? Is she all right?” Julianna nodded as she helped Sam into a sitting
position. Sam grimaced as he held his side with his injured arm, causing
him even more pain. “She’s
okay,” Julianna replied. “I had her placed in the infirmary once she
arrived in the Waiting Room.” Julianna started to help him up when a
figure blinked into view, standing in front of the steps. Julianna smiled.
“Ziggy.” “Captain,”
the holographic representation of Ziggy said. “Dr. Beckett.” She
frowned at the sight of the injured scientist. “Poor thing,” she cooed
as she looked on lovingly at Sam. “How’s
Jessica doing, Ziggy?” Julianna asked. When Sam was able to stand
upright, he nearly fell back down. Julianna immediately went to his aid.
Sam moaned in pain as he threw an arm around Julianna’s shoulders. “Ms.
Alcott is doing quite well, Captain. Her wounds are being treated and she
is expected to make a full recovery.” “I
need to get us out of here,” Julianna said as she looked over at Sam.
“I’m sorry, Sam, but I’m going to need your help getting you up
these steps.” Sam nodded and they started towards the stairs. Sam
gritted his teeth with each pain filled step taken. When they reached the
top of the stairs, Sam asked Julianna to stop so he could catch his
breath. “I’m
afraid you two don’t have much time left,” Ziggy said as her image
appeared in the doorway. “It looks like Wallace Conway is regaining
consciousness.” Julianna
tipped her head. “Come on, Sam. Let’s get you out of here.” Together
the two Leapers made their way through the bedroom. As they entered the
living room, Julianna withdrew the revolver and kept it aimed at the
stirring kidnapper. She gently slipped out from under Sam’s arm and went
over to Wallace as Sam leaned against a nearby wall, taking slow, deep
breaths. She knelt down and slowly reached out her hand. After a very
tense moment, she reached out with her other hand and plucked the keys
from his pocket, the revolver still aimed at Wallace. Quickly making her
way back to Sam, she draped his arm over her shoulders and helped him out
the cabin and down the steps. Once they made it the truck, she helped him
into the front seat. Closing the door, she went around to the driver side
and got in. She saw the CB radio and picked up the handset as she put the
keys in the ignition. Ziggy informed her which channel the Nothing
but static. After waiting a few moments she frowned and tried again. “Can
anybody hear me? This is Jessica Alcott and I have been kidnapped. I
repeat, this is Jessica Alcott and I’ve been kidnapped.” Julianna was
about to hang up the handset when a faint voice emanated through the
static. “Jessica?
Is that you?” Julianna let out a sigh of relief as she started the
truck. Steering it down the dirt path, she continued to talk on the radio. “Copy.
I am currently somewhere in the woods just outside of town. Copy?” After
a burst of static she heard the voice again. “Yes, sweetheart, I copy.
Please describe your surroundings.” Julianna then began to give the
recipient descriptions of the area. Julianna and the recipient, who turned
out to be the sheriff and Jessica Alcott’s father, went back and forth
on the radio, with Sam listening intently. Ziggy had left about ten
minutes ago, declaring that too much power was being consumed to keep her
connected. She said that she would return when an acceptable amount of
power was available. Just as they passed the creek both Sam and Julianna
heard a loud pop and suddenly the truck started to swerve. Julianna quickly
brought the truck to a stop. Parking the truck, she opened the door and
hopped out, walking over to examine the cause of the problem. There, she
had found that the right front tire had gone flat. As Julianna knelt
beside the tire, she discovered a piece of rock sticking out of the
flattened tire. Julianna stood up and went to the back of the truck,
opening the tailgate and looking inside. “Great,”
she muttered. “No spare. What are the odds on that? Stupid hick
bastard,” she said as the thought of Wallace Conway came to mind. She
closed the tailgate, went back to the driver side, and sat back in the
seat. Shutting off the engine, she picked up the handset and pressed the
side button. “Dad, do you copy?” Static.
“Yes,
Jessie, I copy.” “Our
truck has a flat. We’re currently located near some creek. We’re going
to travel the rest on foot.” Static. “Stay
where you are. I know exactly where you’re at. I’ll be there as soon
as I can.” “All
right, but be careful, Dad. This man is quite dangerous and most likely
armed. His name is Wallace Conway. Copy.” Static. “Copy
that. Be safe, Jessie. I’ll see you soon.” Julianna glanced over at
Sam. “I
have an injured man here with me. He helped me escape and he needs
immediate medical attention. Copy.” Static. “Copy.
I’ll have an ambulance on the way. In case anything happens keep the
radio on this channel so we can stay in touch. Copy.” Static. “Copy.
Will do.” Julianna disconnected and hung the handset back in its cradle.
She looked over at Sam, who had a confused look on his face. Julianna
started to relate the information that Ziggy had given her back at the
Project. “Jessica
Alcott is in actuality Jessica Murphy, daughter of the sheriff of “We
won’t let that happen,” Sam said matter-of-factly. The pain was still
great, but not quite as bad as had been earlier. “We’re going to make
sure that Jessica gets back to her father.” Julianna and Sam shared a
smile. “So I guess we play the waiting game now,” he said after a
moment as he looked at the creek through the windshield. Julianna
chuckled as she adjusted the rear view mirror. Jessica’s blue eyes
stared back at her. Julianna frowned as she saw Jessica’s black eye as
she brought her hand up and gently touched it. “Poor
girl,” Julianna said. Sam
lowered his head at her words. “I tried, Julianna, but I let her down.
This is all my fault.” “Sam,
you did everything you could. What’s important now is that she’s safe
and sound back at the Project. We’re going to fix this.” “Which
brings up another point,” Sam said as he shifted in his seat, facing
her. “Does Al know that you Leaped?” Julianna’s only reply was a
smirk. “Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate very much on your helping me
back at the cabin, but you know that your father wouldn’t want you to
risk your life as well. I certainly don’t want you too. You have a life
back at the Project. You’re very much needed back there.” “And
so are you,” Julianna added, “which is why when we get Jessica to
safety and Jeff to a hospital, I’m going to bring you back home.” “That’s
been attempted before. The Retrieval Program is flawed. You run a great
risk on being stuck in Time like me, and I just can’t have that, which
is why you’re going alone when they attempt a retrieval.” Sam added
with a hint of sadness in his tone, “I’ll be back someday. I have to
keep up the faith that one day God, Time, Fate, or Whatever will decide
when it’s time for me to come home.” “What
you don’t know,” Julianna said as she met Sam’s gaze, “is that
we’ve been working on the Retrieval Program and we think we might have
hit the jackpot,” she paused as she shrugged, “or rather I think we
have.” Sam arched an eyebrow. “So, when the time comes, you and I will
be back at Quantum Leap before you know it.” “I
admire your optimism,” Sam remarked. “However, when in correlation
with my Leaping, the Retrieval Program has always been flawed.” “Until
now. After all, Sam, you just said it. ‘Keep up the faith’.” Sam
smiled at Julianna. The next half hour passed rather slowly for the two as
they kept up the small talk until Sheriff Murphy arrived. They hadn’t
heard anything more from Ziggy and their sense of hope was starting to
renew itself. Julianna
laughed at a comment Sam made just as they heard the rumble of a car
engine coming from behind them. She looked over her shoulder and saw a tan
colored sedan pull up behind them. She couldn’t see the driver, but as
she stepped out of the vehicle, after hearing Sam telling her to be
careful, a familiar sense of dread washed over her, drowning out the hope
like a flash flood. She narrowed her eyes as she stood by the truck, her
hand covertly drifting down to her waist where the revolver was tucked.
She knew, without a shadow of a doubt, who was behind that wheel when the
driver side door of the sedan opened and out stepped a bruised and beaten
Wallace Conway. “Just
who the hell is this guy? The Energizer Bunny?” Julianna muttered as she
started to pull out her weapon just as Wallace had taken aim with his
shotgun. “Seems
we got ourselves a little predicament here,” he said with a grin. “How
are ever going to solve this one?” “Easy,”
Julianna said as she tilted her head, “I put a bullet in that thick
skull of yours and call it a day.” “Quite
a tongue you have there,” Wallace said with a sneer. “I’ll take
great pleasure ripping it out of your head.” “I’d
like to see you try.” “Drop
the gun, bitch,” Wallace spat. When Julianna reciprocated by keeping the
revolver steadily aimed at his head Wallace shifted his shoulders, moving
the gun up a notch. “Don’t dick with me, little girl. I don’t know
where this sudden ‘tough chick’ act came from, but it’s pissing me
off.” Gazes locked, he added, “Put the goddamn gun down or I’ll
blast your head clean off your shoulders.” “Really?
Well then I guess we’ll just have to-” Even as she spoke something
came over Julianna, a powerful sense of fear for this man. She struggled
to shove the fear aside, but it was that fear which kept her from
completing her mission. “Please, Jessica, not now,” Julianna breathed.
However, Jessica Alcott’s fear overwhelmed the ex-Navy SEAL, forcing her
to follow ‘her’ instincts. Julianna slowly lowered the revolver until
it rested on the ground and raise her hands, silently cursing herself in
the process. “Good
girl,” Wallace said. “Now kick it over to me.” Julianna did as
requested, all the while struggling to regain control of the situation.
When the gun was within his reach Wallace crouched down, while keeping the
shotgun aimed at Julianna with one free hand, quickly snatched the
revolver and stood back up. Slipping the gun in his waistband he then
started toward Julianna, ordering her to turn around. As she did she could
feel the pressure of the barrel against her back. Wallace led her over to
where Sam was sitting, and ordered him out of the vehicle. Wallace grinned
with delight as he watched Sam struggle to stand up. Wallace and Julianna
both noticed that Sam had his hand pressed tightly against his side. “Are
you okay?” Julianna asked with a frown. “Y-yeah
I’m... fine,” Sam struggled to say, taking a couple of quick, deep
breaths. “All
right, you two. Enough talk.” Wallace had Sam walk beside Julianna as he
started escorting them at gunpoint. “We’re going to take a nice little
walk.” “Where
are you taking us?” Julianna asked. “You’ll
find out as soon as we get there, not that you’ll be around long enough
to enjoy the beautiful scenery.” Wallace led them past the parked
vehicles and up an incline that was directly ahead. A few minutes later
when they reached the top of the incline the soft, soothing sound of
running water of the creek could be heard from several feet below them. It
was also at this moment that Sam slowly lifted his hand from his side,
beads of blood dripping from his fingertips. Julianna looked over and
noticed Sam, who was quite pale by this point and barely able to stand. “Wait
a minute,” Julianna said as she stopped suddenly. Both Sam and Wallace
looked at her. “I
didn’t tell you to stop,” Wallace spat with disgust. “Look
at him,” she said as she tipped her head towards Sam. “He can’t go
on. Listen, leave him here, and take me. I’m the one you want anyway.”
As
Julianna bargained with Wallace, Sam fell to his knees, and a moment
later, collapsed on the ground. Wallace looked down at Sam for a moment
and then back at Julianna, considering her bargain. “What’s
the point, really, taking him along?” Julianna continued. “He’s just
as good as dead.” She blinked away a couple of tears that tried to crawl
down her cheeks. No, she wouldn’t allow herself even that one moment of
weakness. There’s a mission to be completed. It pained her greatly,
however, to say such things about Sam, but she needed to get him away from
Wallace. “What do you say?” “Fine
by me,” Wallace said as he pressed the shotgun against Julianna’s
back. “Keep moving.” Julianna steeled herself to keep her eyes forward
as Wallace kept moving. “So long, brother,” he added as they walked
away from Sam. A few minutes later they were walking across the clearing,
Julianna’s mind running a mile a minute as she tried to formulate an
escape plan. Wallace hadn’t said a word since they’d left Sam behind.
He simply kept the barrel of the shotgun pressed firmly against her back. “You
won’t get away with this,” Julianna said after a moment, breaking the
spell of uncomfortable silence. “Look
around you, girlie,” Wallace retorted. “Who the hell is going to be
coming to your rescue?” Laughing he shoved the barrel of the shotgun
against her back, causing Julianna to wince. His laughing was abruptly cut
off when he jerked his head over his shoulder, his eyes widening in shock
and anger. Then, in a single fluid motion, he dropped the shotgun,
withdrew the revolver from his waistband, and jerked Julianna over to him,
his other arm hooked around her neck. “Well, well. Look who’s decided
to join the party!” “Hold
it! Step away and place your hands above your head!” came the strong,
commanding tone of Sheriff Mitchell Murphy as he stood across the
clearing, standing near an incline to their right, weapon aimed at
Wallace. “Back away and keep your hands where I can see them!” “Better
drop your piece, Sheriff,” Wallace yelled as he tightened his grip
around Julianna. Wallace could see the Sheriff hesitating, his weapon
wavering slightly. “Not
a chance,” Murphy called back. “Let my daughter go!” “Better
call off your Daddy,” Wallace said to Julianna as he tightened his grip. “Dad!”
Julianna called out to Murphy after a moment. “Please lower your gun!”
When Murphy hesitated she tried again. “Please, Dad! Lower your gun!” Wallace
inched his way back from the sheriff while using Julianna as a shield, the
edge of the clearing a few feet behind them. “I’m warning ya, Sheriff!
You try anything stupid and I’ll blow her goddamned brains out!”
Desperation, anger, sorrow… all of it could be heard in his tone. Julianna
shifted her gaze between Wallace and Murphy. “Jessie,”
Murphy breathed in disbelief as he slowly lowered his weapon. Murphy
didn’t have to be up close to see how badly injured his only daughter
was. “My God, what happened to you?” Murphy took a couple steps
towards Julianna, not fully realizing what he was doing. “Jessie...”
Murphy, unfortunately, was a second too late reaching for his sidearm as
Wallace shoved Julianna aside, took aim, and fired off a single shot.
Murphy grabbed his arm as the force of the bullet’s impact had sent him
to the ground. “No!”
Julianna cried out as she watched the sheriff fall to the ground,
clutching his arm. “Gotcha,”
Wallace sneered. “You
son of a bitch!” Unbridled anger washed over Julianna as she wheeled
around and pounced on Wallace. Straddling his chest, she proceeded to
punch him across the face. “You kidnapped her,” she emphasized with a
hard punch across the jaw. “You beat her!” Another punch across the
side of his face. “You tried to rape
her, for Christ sake!” She punched him across the other side of his
face, his head snapping to the side. “You tried to kill her, the
Sheriff, and my friend!” Rage controlled her and guided the flurry of
punches, Wallace’s head snapping to either side with each strike. After
about a minute of attacking Wallace, Julianna stopped just long enough to
compose herself, breathing heavily as she stared at the bruised and dazed
attacker. Remembering Jessica’s black eye she saw in the mirror,
Julianna placed a neat and quick punch to Wallace’s right eye.
“Let’s see how good your aim is now, bastard.” Julianna then stood
up, retrieved the dropped shotgun, and looked over at Sheriff Murphy, who
was trying to sit up as he clutched his bleeding arm. “Jessie,”
Murphy called as Julianna ran over to him. She knelt beside him, laying
the shotgun at her side on the ground, and helped him sit upright, being
careful as to not aggravate his wounded arm. “I-I was so worried that
I’d never see you again,” he said as he looked at Julianna. “Are you
okay?” Julianna
nodded. “I’m fine, Dad. I’m just glad that you’re here.” Looking
around she then asked, “Where are the rest of the cops and the
paramedics?” “They’re
on their way,” Murphy said as he closed his eyes, a brief wave of pain
shooting across his injured arm. “As soon as I got your call over the
radio I immediately left. Until you mentioned the creek, I had no clue as
to where to start looking.” Murphy looked past Julianna over to the
sprawled form of Wallace Conway. “Did you... do that?”
he asked with a raised eyebrow. “Yeah,”
Julianna said as she lightly laughed. Murphy laughed along for a moment
before another wave of pain overcame him. “Damn,”
he muttered as he gently lifted his hand, looking at the wound. “Looks
like a through and through,” Julianna commented as she examined
Murphy’s wound. Julianna cocked her head as she noticed the peculiar
look she got from Murphy. “What?” Murphy
shook his head, brushing aside a lock of blond hair. “You never cease to
amaze me, Jessica Renee. I love you.” “Love
you too, Dad,” Julianna said. “I
noticed an injured man back there on the way here,” Murphy commented as
he tilted his head towards the direction that Wallace had brought her
from. “Is that the guy you were telling me about on the radio?” Julianna
nodded. “Yes. He’s the one who helped me escape. He needs immediate
medical attention.” Glancing at his wound she added, “And so do
you.” Wallace
stirred as his eyes fluttered open. He brought his head up and saw the
girl with the Sheriff near the hill. The Sheriff had his right arm drawn
close to his chest, Wallace noted as he grinned savagely. His right eye
stung as he blinked. “Damn little bitch,” he spat as he took a couple
of breaths, which brought about a brief fit of coughing. He had a pounding
headache from the girl’s attack, causing him to have to take it slow.
Wallace then painfully pulled his left leg up just enough for him to reach
down and hike up his jeans. On his ankle he wore a small, leather holster
with something small and silver inside. Wallace slipped out the object and
held it up, pulling back the hammer of the silver Derringer with his
thumb. “Let’s see you dodge this one,” he muttered as he struggled
to stand, grunting in pain. When he was able to get to his feet, his body
rocked for a moment before he was able to get a good aim. Chuckling, he
hooked his index around the trigger as he tried to blink away his double
vision. Julianna
helped Murphy to his feet when a small glint of light caught Julianna’s
attention from out of the corner of her eye. She looked over and saw
Wallace staggering to his feet, raising his arm, and aiming something
small directly at her. Murphy looked shocked as Julianna quickly pulled
his pistol out from his holster. He looked over and saw whom she was
aiming at. “Jessie,”
Murphy started to say as Julianna now had a clear shot on Wallace. She
could easily tell that Wallace was still rather dazed, his body slightly
rocking as he struggled to stay on his feet. “Come
on, you little whelp,” Wallace muttered as he tried to clear the fog
from his vision, “show me what you got.” Julianna
kept her aim steady. “Come
on, Jessie,” Murphy said softly as he slowly reached for the gun,
“take it easy and put the gun down.” At that moment, just as Murphy
could get the gun away from Julianna, Wallace took a half step forward
when Julianna squeezed off one shot. Wallace staggered back as he slammed
a hand over his chest. Wallace
looked down and saw blood oozing out from a small hole just above his
right breast. He then looked back up at Julianna and, with every bit of
determination and physical endurance he had, he took aim again. “You
stupid little-” The rest of what he was going to say was abruptly cut
off when another shot rang out, the second bullet having hit him right in
his sternum. The impact of the bullet pushed Wallace back enough to where
he was teetering over the edge of the clearing. It was also at that moment
that his vision blurred and started to darken, but not before seeing a
tall, brunette woman standing where Jessica had been moments before,
looking on at him with pure hatred. “W-who... are... you?” he breathed
as he felt himself falling backward, the ground quickly disappearing out
from under him. As his vision darkened, he could feel himself falling for
a moment before the jagged rocks of the creek broke his fall, shattering
nearly every bone in his body. “That
ought to knock the batteries out of you,” Julianna said as Murphy eased
the gun out of her hand. She did notice, though, moments before Wallace
fell off the edge, the look on his face. Pure confusion. Julianna knew at
that moment that the last person he saw wasn’t Jessica Alcott, but
herself. She looked over at Murphy, letting herself fall into his arms.
The Sheriff held her close. “It’s
over,” Murphy breathed as he smoothed some hair off of Julianna’s
forehead. Julianna’s eyes didn’t waver from the spot where Wallace
Conway had been just a minute before. From somewhere nearby the wailing of
sirens could be heard, although it’d probably be about another couple
minutes before they would arrive. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Three
minutes later the rest of the “Sam,”
Julianna said as she gently held his hand, “I hope you can hear me.”
Tears started to well up in her eyes as she looked on at the prone form of
Sam Beckett. Sam had a couple of IVs hooked up to either arm and an oxygen
mask placed on his face. Julianna barely looked over when a figure blinked
into view next to her. “It
seems that your work here is done,” Ziggy said as she looked on at the
two Leapers with affection. “I’m much relieved that you are safe,
Captain, although I am rather worried for Dr. Beckett. I wish that I
could’ve gotten here much sooner. I shall notify Doctor Lofton to
initiate the Retrieval Program.” Ziggy lifted her head and seemed to be
looking upward. “Initiate Retrieval Program 32A.” Julianna looked back
at Sam as tears began to spill down her cheeks. “Time
for us to go home, Sam Beckett.” She patted his hand as she blinked back
the tears that tried to escape. “Ma’am,”
one of the paramedics, positioned on the other side of Sam’s stretcher,
said to Julianna, “we’re going to have to ask you move back so we can
tend to him.” He moved Julianna back, forcing her to release Sam’s
hand as she looked over at the hologram. “What’s
going on, Ziggy? Why aren’t we Leaping?” Just as the words had left
her mouth, she felt a strange tingle begin to course through her body,
which was soon followed by a blue tinge that filled her vision. She shoved
the paramedic aside and grabbed Sam’s hand just as the electrical energy
coursed through her. Blue-white light then exploded all around her and
Sam. “You’re coming home with me,” she managed to say just before
they simo-Leaped. In the void, Julianna could still feel Sam’s hand in hers and, although she couldn’t get a good view of him, she knew he was next to her. The dual retrieval had been a success! The floating sensation seemed to increase, and soon both Julianna and Sam could feel themselves rushing through the void. The white light seemed to grow brighter and brighter with each passing moment until the light was blinding. Just before the light started to dissipate, Julianna felt a strong force between herself and Sam. She gripped his hand in hers as tightly as she could, but the force was much stronger, feeling as if it were purposely trying to separate them. “I’m
not going to lose you!” Julianna cried out into the void as she refused
to let go of his hand. “Damn it! Don’t you let go, Sam Beckett!” Julianna
felt herself being shoved in the opposite direction, away from Sam. She
cried out in anger as she felt the light wrapping itself around her,
pulling her further away from Sam. “No! It’s not supposed to be this
way!” Despair soon flowed through her, as the realization that she had
failed her mission weighed heavily on her. “It’s not supposed to be
this way,” she said in a softer tone. “Someday,”
a Voice had told her gently, although with a touch of sadness in its tone.
The Voice had paused for a moment, as if it were thinking of what to say
next. “There’s still more for him to do. You have fulfilled your
purpose. Home is waiting for you.” And before Julianna Sherman-Calavicci
could say anymore the light enveloped her completely. “Captain?”
Another voice called to her, but this wasn’t the same voice that she
heard moments before. The voices, though, seemed a bit muffled and
distant.
“Julianna?
Can you hear me?” Julianna’s eyes fluttered open and the first thing
she saw were the featureless gray walls of the Accelerator Chamber. She
could even feel the coolness of the Accelerator Chamber’s floor through
the thin fabric of the Fermi suit. “Y-yes,”
Julianna stammered as she looked around. “I can hear you.” Not a
moment later a part of the wall just in front of her slid open, and three
figures stepped through and helped her to her feet. “Glad
to have you back, ma’am,” Ensign Ed Sharpe said with his youthful grin
as he reached down and gently pulled Julianna to her feet. On her other
side was Beth. “I’m
so glad you’re safe, Jules,” Beth said with a smile. “Your
father’s been worried sick about you.” Julianna
stood on wobbly legs and then let herself be guided out of the Accelerator
Chamber. Julianna looked back with misty eyes, praying, wishing, and
hoping that Sam Beckett would appear. Knowing that she failed, she closed
her eyes just as the tears started to stream down her cheeks. “I’m so
sorry, Sam,” she whispered as she let herself be escorted out of the
Accelerator Chamber. As she walked down the ramp she turned her head,
looking back at the Accelerator Chamber with sadness, frustration, but
most importantly a stronger drive to one day bring Dr. Samuel Beckett home
for good. “Someday,”
Julianna whispered as they reached the bottom of the ramp. A large group
of smiling faces was there to greet her and commend her on her successful
Leap and retrieval, although to Julianna this was one mission that failed
miserably. “ “Not
really,” she said after a long moment, and before the young Ensign could
further comment, Julianna eased out from his gentle hold and made the rest
of the walk on her own, leaving him behind. EPILOGUE Project
Quantum Leap Office
of Rear Admiral Albert Calavicci 14
Hours After Julianna’s Retrieval “You’re
damn lucky it worked!” Al exclaimed as he sat in his leather recliner
chair, looking at his oldest daughter with a mixed look of frustration and
relief. “You could’ve been killed, Jules!” Al continued before
Julianna could get a word in edgewise. “However I know why you did it
and, if I’d been around, I would’ve done the same in that situation.
I’m just glad that both Sam and Jessica are safe.” “Speaking
of which,” Julianna said after a moment as she leaned forward in her
chair positioned on the other side of the desk, her hands resting atop a
couple of manila folders that were on her lap. “I checked up on Jessica
Alcott and Jeff Conway. You’ll be glad to know that Jessica is safe and
sound. In fact, she went on to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation in
1993 and became one of their best agents. Through out her career she’d
assisted in the search and rescue of twenty-three kidnap victims who all
disappeared without a trace in the original history. She’s still in the
Bureau today, but goes by the name Jessica Murphy.” Al raised an eyebrow
as Julianna smirked. “After her abduction she went to live with her
father and legally changed her name back. You see, Ziggy never checked her
birth certificate until after Verbena’s conversation with Jeff Conway in
the Waiting Room. He remembered that she was the daughter of the This
news brought a smile to Al. “Remember
the Red Rose Murders back in the mid and late nineties?” Julianna asked. “Ah,
vaguely. Some sicko leaving a red rose next to his victims, right?” “Right,”
Julianna said with a nod. “From 1996 to 2002, Mark Redfield would stalk
young women, ages ranging from eighteen to thirty. At the scene of the
crime a single red rose would be found next to the victims. Originally,
Redfield murdered twenty-eight women before he was captured.” She
couldn’t help but to smile. “However, Agent Murphy lead the
investigation that apprehended the creep two years earlier than before.
Eight lives were saved, Dad.” Al
smiled as he adjusted his reading glasses. “I’m glad that she’s all
right and doing well. What about Jeff Conway?” Julianna
frowned as she began to relate the data on their last Visitor. “Well,
although he aided in her abduction, he also was instrumental in her
escape. Sheriff Murphy worked with the judge and had Jeff’s sentence
reduced to four years in prison. When he was released in 1987, he simply
disappeared. There are no further records on him after October 16, 1987.
He was last reported as being seen in somewhere in “Better,”
Al said with a shrug. “I have to report to Verbena’s office for the
next two months, to make sure that I haven’t lost all my marbles.” He
offered her a smile. “I guess that I still have a few things that need
to be worked out.” “You
had us quite scared, Dad. When Verbena and I saw you break down like that
in the Imaging Chamber...” She paused when she couldn’t find the right
words to say. “Everything
is going to be okay, Jules.” “Dad?”
Julianna asked after a moment of silence. “What
is it, honey?” “When
Dr. Beckett and I simo-Leaped,” Julianna started to say, trying to come
up with the best way to explain what she experienced. “In that void, you
know ‘the space between the Leaps’?” Al nodded. “Well, just before
we Leaped, I held his hand and, in that void I could still feel his touch
but, there was something...,or someone who pushed me away from him. I-I
heard this Voice telling me that Sam wasn’t finished yet with
Leaping.” Her eyes began to well with tears once more as she finished
explaining it to Al. “I had him right there... right there and I lost
him.” “Hey,
Jules, you didn’t lose him, okay? It just wasn’t his time to return to
us, I suppose.” Al thought about it for a moment. “That’s what I
have to keep telling myself every damn day when I see a stranger appear in
the Waiting Room. I know deep down that Samuel Beckett will return home
and when he does, it’s going to be one hell of a party.” As they
shared a smile Ziggy’s voice flowed through the intercom system. “Admiral
Calavicci?” “Yes,
Ziggy?” “Your
presence is requested in Dr. Beeks’ office.” “Tell
her I’ll be there in a minute.” Al grumbled as he stood up and
stretched. “It’s
not that bad,” Julianna commented when she saw the look of disdain on
his face. Al
smiled at her just as he crossed the office and opened the door.
“Jules?” “Yes?” “I
love you, kiddo.” Julianna smiled back at Al. “Love
you, too, Dad.” Al
stood there for a moment, smiling at his daughter, before turning around,
and heading down the corridor to Verbena’s office. Julianna
stood there in his office for a moment, holding the manila folders in her
hand. She glanced down and for a moment simply stared at the one labeled ALCOTT,
JESSICA/CONWAY, JEFFREY. She went over to her father’s file drawer
and pulled out the top drawer. She was about to slip the folder in when
she stopped, thought about it for a moment and then closed the drawer,
deciding it would be best to hold onto the file for now, that she would
show him the file when the time was right. She looked up and saw the many
pictures that graced the walls. One of them particularly caught her eye.
As she walked over to it, she gently lifted it off its hanger and stood
there, staring at the picture of Sam and Al standing in front of
Crossroads Diner. “Be
safe, Sam Beckett,” she said as she placed the picture back on the wall.
She went over to Al’s desk and sat down, and thought for a moment before
picking up the phone. After dialing the number she waited for a moment as
the call connected. “Hello?”
the voice of Senator Tuyen Blaize said. Julianna smiled widely. “Hi,
honey. It’s me.” Julianna leaned back in the chair. She could hear the
tiredness in his tone. “Busy day?” “It’s
been one hell of a day, danh t ’,”
Tuyen had said with a sigh, his voice slightly warped through its tour in
the phone line. Danh t ’ meant
‘beloved’ in Vietnamese and just also happened to be one of Tuyen’s
favorite pet names for Julianna. Julianna
couldn’t help but to grin. “Well, let’s just say that you wouldn’t
believe the day that I’ve had.”
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