The Time Travelers' Club -- Chapter 86: Plan B

“Our attack didn’t work,” said Bruno.  “They were slippery as noodles.”

“Seriously, did you think that the International Council would allow any of their members to be kidnapped?” countered Dreda, displaying her usual lack of caring.  She didn’t look up from her travel magazine. “We’re not after a group of school children.   These are highly skilled adults who have years of training over all of us.”

Tinean and Bruno glanced at her, then over to the Doctor to watch his reaction.

Dr. Herkeimer glared at her, seething with caged fury.  His temple muscles flexed as he spoke.  “Dreda, I find your lack of interest distressing.  Perhaps, you need to have a new adjustment of attitude.”

“And what exactly do you expect?  I tried to tell you.” Frustrated, Dreda got up from the couch, gripping the magazine tightly in one hand, pointing it at him. “You did not listen.  They are a highly-organized group who don’t want history to change. Why are you so interested getting a copy of one of the books anyway?”

Dr. Herkeimer fumed fiercely at her. “That is none of your concern. Your concerns are to do what I tell you and do it to perfection.  Remember what I have.” His fury turned to an evil grin.

As usual, Dreda backed down at the threat of exposure for a past decision.  The deep secret that Dr. Herkeimer held over her was among the papers in the his massive safe in a hidden room in the basement.  “I...  I just want…”  Dreda struggled for the words.

Dr. Herkeimer’s safe held information on each of his minions that kept them in line with his plan. The plan only he knew anything about.   He had blackmailed each one into joining him, if they didn't join on their own.   Dreda had been the only one to stand up to him and try to find out exactly why he wanted one of the books.

Since Bruno and Tinean’s attempt failed, another plan had to be put into place.

“I have sent Vincent to see what he can find out about the brat and the old lady these days.  It would appear that the brat is no longer interested in the Club.  Dr. Thomas has proven to be very useful.   It wasn’t very difficult to discover her secrets.”

Dr. Herkeimer crossed the room to his high-back chair.  The carved face at the top glared down at them.   “Tinean.  Bruno.   You know the plan.”

“And what is the plan this time?” said Dreda. “Drive over to Mrs. Steers’ house and knock on the front door?”

“Once again that is none of your concern,” said Dr. Herkeimer.  “You have your own plan to follow. Now, off, all of you. I will be waiting to hear of your successes.”

Dreda flung the magazine down on the table and left the room.   Her part of the new plan was to spy on Rufus Leightstone, learn where he went, and if he knew the whereabouts of the books. Standing out in the hall, hands on her hips, Dreda pondered her next move.

A few moments later, Tinean and Bruno came out.

 “So boys, where are you off to?”  Dreda decided to put on the pressure to find out what their mission was.  “Your task must be difficult.”

Tinean grinned at her, throwing a kiss her way.  “Wouldn’t you like to know, my sweet plum.”

“Back off, you swine,” retorted Dreda.  “Keep your distance.  I won’t be afraid to fatten those puckered lips.”

“Oooh… Aren’t you a feisty one?”  Tinean took a few steps towards her, but stopped when he felt the grip of Bruno’s hand on his shoulder.

“Leave her be.”  Bruno and Dreda had bonded.  He looked at her as his sister   She had taken him under her wing and protected him on several occasions.  Once, Dr. Herkeimer, in front of all, raised the fireplace poker to hit Bruno.  Dreda stepped in, grabbed it, and forced the Doctor to back off.  One of the few time she had actually successfully stood up to him.

Tinean pushed Bruno away.  “You two in cahoots?  Well, you better watch yourself, my sweetie.  You never know who may be watching.”

Dreda hated him.  He was foul and disgusting. She felt bad that Bruno had to work with him on their new plan, whatever it was.

Tinean and Bruno left through the front door of the mansion. Dreda pondered for a moment.  I should follow them.  See what they are up to.  This new plan seems to lack any substance.  Hmmm… The Doctor has gone to new depths of insanity.

Dreda disappeared, off to find Rufus Leightstone.

Outside, Tinean saw her leave, as he peeked in the window.  He turned to Bruno.

“She’s off.  Now to our task.  We are to follow her and see what the sweet little plum is up to.  And remember, if you squeal, pig, I get to cut your throat... In the night… In the dark… Just right after I wake you to feel it…”  Tinean patted the knife strapped to his side under his jacket.  Bruno gulped, rubbing his neck.  They were off.