Schizogenesis [chapter 28]

As everyone headed to their vehicles, Blender stood alone in the Johnson’s bathroom looking into the mirror while waiting for his Washington connection. The deep voice answered on the second ring.

“Report,” the voice ordered. When Blender paused, the voice said, “Please tell me you have something.”

“Ming Flower, Dr. Kirland’s assistant, lives here. She informed me that all effects from the machine wear off in time when exposure is removed.”

“And you think that is good news to me?” the voice asked.

Blender was surprised.

“Well, yes. That means Minton and anyone else will soon cease to be a problem to us.”

“I see. It also means the machine may be less useful to us than we’d hoped.”

“Less useful?”

“Our intent involves large-scale deployment of our agency’s workforce, a force that can be used in a multiplicity of ways in this country’s defense.”

Blender had an idea that the machine would be utilized for its offensive capabilities, and only for his own agency’s use. That would mean hell on earth, but Blender was nothing if not loyal to the cause.

“Yes, Sir,” he said, “I understand.” He attempted to get his mind back on track. “The sheriff’s men have located Ed Haswell’s…