Schizogenesis [chapter 9]

Frank Lanier adjusted his utility belt as he got into his cruiser.

Damn outsiders. They hadn’t even bothered to check in with his office, just arrived and started turning everything upside down.

He’d just gotten off the phone with Tina Trask. It sounded like these federal agents had kidnapped town citizens right under his nose, without explanation. This was beyond the realm of belief to Frank. Things just weren’t done that way.

It was time they clued him in on the action. However, when he checked with the only two motels in town, he discovered they weren’t staying at either. They must be operating right out of their vehicles. County vehicles at that. They were following none of the normal F.B.I. protocol and procedures. That made him wonder just which agency they were with.

Was this some black-ops top-secret nonsense? That seemed absurd in this sleepy township.

Frank knew that Ed was no terrorist. He was a Shriner, for god’s sake. Frank also doubted Dave contracted the superflu or other highly contagious bug. If he had, the place would be swarming with men in moon suits.

So what was really going on? It was sure to concern the gravel company, the only thing Ed and Dave had in common. As he drove toward the pit, Frank watched for the so-called agents. There had to be some…