Prologue

Jeremy could see that he did not have long to live. Lying on the floor, the blood was leaking from his chest too quickly. The percussion from the shot still rang in his ears. He knew who was killing him, but not why. This bothered him. Jeremy preferred to comprehend an entire solution. He could see the man come striding over. Confidence in every step.

“Where is it?” the man asked. His voice slightly rasping.

“I don't care to tell you,” Jeremy replied. “You shouldn't have shot me first. Now you have nothing to bargain with.”

The man knew that Jeremy was telling the truth. Jeremy had no family. No friends. He hated these dedicated scientists. Unlike most people they had so few handles to grab onto.

“True,” the man replied in an even voice. “It was a mistake on my part.”

“I am dying,” Jeremy said. “Do you at least mind telling me why?”

“For them,” the man replied. “It is inevitable.”

“I see,” Jeremy considered. “I was only doing as I was told.”

“As am I,” the man replied. “You know, there is no point in prolonging it.”

“No there isn't. Make it quick, if you don't mind.”

“I suppose I owe you that much,” the man mused. He shot Jeremy twice in the heart.

As he faded off, Jeremy had two thoughts. One was that he had kept them from getting it. That gave him some measure of peace. However, another thought haunted his last moment. Would someone else find it in time?