Interlopers

Interlopers Alan Dean Foster

If you purchased this book without a cover, you should aware that this book stolen property. was reported “unsold and destroyed” the publisher, and neither the author nor the publisher has received any payment for this “stripped book This a work fiction. Name, characters, places, and incidents either are the product the author’s imagination are used fictitiously, and any resemblance actual persons, living dead, business establishments, events, locales entirely coincidental. INTERLOPERS Ace Book / published arrangement with Thranx, Inc. PRINTING HISTORY Ace mass-market edition / May 2001 All rights reserved. Copyright © 2001 Thranx, Inc. Cover art Jerry Vanderstelt This book, parts thereof, may not reproduced any form without permission. For information address: The Berkley Publishing Group, a division Penguin Putnam Inc 375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014. The Penguin Putnam Inc. World Wide Web site address http://www.penguinputnam.com Check out the ACE Science Fiction & Fantasy newsletter and much more the Internet Club PPI! ISBN: 0-441-00847-X ACE8 Ace Books are published The Berkley Publishing Group, a division Penguin Putnam Inc 375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014. ACE and the “A” design are trademarks belonging Penguin Putnam Inc. PRINTED THE UNTIED STATES AMERICA 10 987654321

One Khuatupec was hungry. stirred within the stone. solid and impermeable was beautifully carved, stood upright alongside its unformed and uninhabited basaltic kin. light penetrated the ancient temple where the stones reposed. None had entered for hundreds years. The absence illumination did not matter Khuatupec. Light meant nothing him. and his kind utilized means and methods perception that did not require its presence. Within him boiled The Hunger; a sere, seething whirlpool dissatisfaction and emptiness. Considering how long had been since last had fed, was surprising the discomfort was not worse. Yet contented himself. For the first time living memory, food was hand. Something eat. Something suck . divined its presence nearby, had been aware for some time now. Some days would see draw tantalizingly close, others would find moving maddeningly away. There was nothing Khuatupec could but wait. order for him able feed, physical contact with the food was necessary. Because his nature, his situ, that contact had initiated the food itself. envied others his kind who could move about more freely search sustenance. Most them were much smaller than , however, and needed less feeding. His kin were multitudinous and diverse, but there was only one Khuatupec. . Him. Having been patient for many centuries, would perforce have patient a while longer. But was frustrating have much fresh food close hand yet unable taste any . Khuatupec waited within the carved stone, and brooded, and contemplated the ecstasy that was eating. Soon, persuaded himself. Soon enough the taste, the pleasure, the exhilaration feeding would once more his. wondered which the food would the first make contact. The condor descended a lazy spiral, great hooked beak and immense black wings inclining the direction something unseen and dead. reminded Cody the much smaller turkey vultures that haunted the skies above the family ranch back home. Wiping perspiration from his forehead, crouched down and resumed gently blowing dust from the punctured skull the center square N-23. The hole the hoary cranium was large enough admit his little finger. Working carefully within the delimitating grid white cord that was suspended above the soil, finished cleaning the skull before gently depositing a waiting box padded with bubble paper. Unlike the Incas, for whom considerable evidence the primitive surgical procedure existed, there was record the Chachapoyans practicing trepanning. detailed study the skull turned out prove that they had employed the procedure, the results might serve the basis for a formal paper. “Evidence cranial medical practices among the Chachapoyans circa A.D. 1100-1400—Apachetarimac site, Amazonas Province, northern Peru effort suitable for Archaeological Review, certainly, with a slightly more sensationalized version made available for Discover magazine Popular Science. Pictures— needed pictures. Straightening, turned and reached for the rucksack that was lying the higher level nearby. the far side the excavation, Langois and Kovia were working their knees opposite sides a cracked monochrome pot. displayed several the same designs that decorated the tawny limestone walls that formed the ancient citadel. Unlike the Incas, whose dark stonework tended smooth and featureless, the Chachapoyans had incorporated assortment patterns into the foundations their round stone houses and rectangular temples. far, diamonds, waves, and undulating figures that suggested serpents had been discovered.

Pots were rare. Apachetarimac was not Tucume Pacatnamu, ancient cities that had hardly been touched archaeologists tourists. Around their weathering adobe pyramids lay millions upon millions potsherds, relics a thousand years pottery-making cultures with magical names: Chimu, Moche, Lambayeque. The Chachapoyans had not left behind nearly many clay vessels depicting their lives and beliefs. Nor were the Calla Calla Mountains conducive the preservation pottery was the dry coastal desert. The cracked pot was a fine discovery. Even , Cody did not envy Langois and Kovia. was content with his punctured skull. After taking several close-ups the skull rested its box, removed and set the chest-high dirt ledge nearby. Checking the position the sun, tried establish what thought was the most dramatic angle for another photo. could shoot against the sky, but finally decided use the distant mountains background. Wearing their blankets green and soaring heights fourteen thousand feet and more, they would make a colorful backdrop for the dark brown bone. Apachetarimac, mused clicked off shots the digital camera and then checked them the view-screen. Having conquered and absorbed the Chachapoyans they had the majority cultures western South America, the Incas had rechristened many the cities inhabited their new subjects. They had left behind few clues the reasons for some their choices. Some, like Machu Picchu and Ollyantaytambo, were obvious. Apachetarimac, which translated from the Quechua “sacred talking spot was not. his skull were capable speech, probably could have provided some answers. But the brain that had once inhabited the weathered, dark brown ovoid had long since become food for worms. Where might have made another person queasy think such a setting, the prospect the evening meal set off a mild chain reaction Cody’s stomach. Though tall and lanky build, was more immune the pangs hunger than were his smaller colleagues. A steady diet physical labor the thin air nearly ten thousand feet worked ravenous appetites. Frowning slightly, placed the skull back its padded box and wondered today dinner might any different from what was expected. doubted . Vizcaria, the camp cook, was nothing not predictable. Cody would gladly have handed over ten bucks for a decent chicken-fried steak. would have satisfied with the thought and the memory. Here the heights the Calla Calla Mountains there were roads and restaurants. Choctamal, the nearest town, was three days’ hard ride the north the back a plodding, crotch-splitting mule. The nearest real restaurant was the provincial capital Chachapoyas, another four hours’ frightening ride down a narrow, single-lane road boasting some the longest, steepest drop-offs Cody had ever seen. Coming did from the relatively flat hill country southcentral Texas, had a harder time than some his friends with the thousand-foot precipices that seemed lie beneath every bend the lonely dirt track. Frankly, preferred the mules the brake-pad-deprived minibuses and pickups. “Looking good, . Westcott a voice boomed from above. Langois and Kovia glanced briefly before returning their own work. . Harbos would query them due time. Martin Harbos, .D was director the excavations Apachetarimac. Five-ten , was half a foot shorter than the senior graduate student laboring beneath him. A candle two shy sixty, still had more hair than anyone else the project, though every strand had long ago turned a startling silvery-white, the blatant hue a cheap Santa Claus wig. Rather than being a consequence normal aging, the network deep lines that crevassed his face was inherited from his ancestors. His skin was burned brown from years field work, and beneath his shirt and shorts small, corded muscles exploded like caramel popcorn. had the bluest eyes Cody had ever seen, a ready sense humor, and the ability flay a student naked with a casual, sometimes off-hand comment. Today chose complimentary. “Trepanning was crouching the edge the excavation, peering down the skull the box.

“I’d like think , . Harbos Though friendly, even jovial, the professor insisted the honorific. Fraternizing between officers and enlisted men was limited Harbos’s shift, Cody thought with a hidden smile. “It’ll take lab studies confirm deny indicated the packaged skull. “The edges the cavity are pretty regular, but could have been made a weapon Harbos nodded. “ something else His expression was sympathetic. “It’s always frustrating when you find something potentially exciting the field and know that won’t properly identified for months Straightening, moved , keeping clear the rim the straight-sided excavation not knock dirt pebbles into the hole. Pleased with this mildest compliments, Cody carefully began fold the lid the box closed, bending the corners the cardboard the top would stay shut until could reopened the field lab. Somewhere, a bird chirped. The paucity birds the semi-cloud forest was striking. Unlike elsewhere the Andes, here they kept themselves, their boisterous warbling might disturb the sleeping mountains. Except for the condors and the buzzards, course. Ever the lookout for harbingers death, they had a job that required constant patrolling the translucent blue sky. Their occasional appearances provoked admiring comment from those his fellow students who hailed from the city, which ignored. Back home, such aerial visions were common dirt. wondered how many other intact skulls might lie buried and waiting found nearby. the standards the remarkable but little-known Chachapoyan culture, Apachetarimac was not a big site, more than four hundred meters long ninety wide. Gran Vilaya, for one, boasted far more individual structures, and Cuelap was more physically imposing. But Apachetarimac remained one the most impressive, occupying the top a forest-clad mountain whose sides fell away sheer three sides. Walls cut limestone over a hundred and twenty feet high formed the basis the citadel, with the interior structures rising higher still. Combined with dense overgrowth, its inaccessibility had kept hidden from the outside world for the last five hundred years. Locals whose farms clung with the tenacity dirty spider webs the sides nearby mountains knew its existence but had reason speak the outside world. While they had made plain they didn’t care for the busy visitors who delighted digging the dirt, neither did they attempt interfere with the excavation. The presence a pair Peruvian federal policemen, camped site prevent looting and ward off any wandering narcotraficos, also served keep the superstitious locals from causing any trouble. “Well, does inspiration strike, have you been bitten a fer--lance, this paralysis due inability decide whether forward, back, simply wait for instructions turned sharply. The only time Alwydd could look down him was when was standing a hole. Not that she was particularly short, but was the tallest person camp. For that matter, was the tallest person this immediate region Peru, height not being a notable characteristic the local indios and mestizos. Embarrassed, fumbled for a witty response and, always, came with nothing. She was much too quick for him. Harbos could keep with her, giving good got, but one else camp had her lightning wit. She was also brilliant, and beautiful, about a year away from her doctorate, and convinced that she and not Cody ought Harbos’s first assistant the field. not wit, however, Coschocton Westcott possessed endless reservoirs patience. archaeologist, that was the far more valued commodity. Brilliance was cheap. had never met attractive a girl indifferent her appearance. From the dirt-streaked baggy bush pants the equally frumpy beige-toned field shirt, she looked every inch a bad copy a silent screen clown after a particularly rough car chase. The limp-brimmed hat that slumped down around her ears sat atop her head like broccoli a stalk, rising unnatural heights order accommodate the long hair wound beneath. A mussed pixie drifting through a khaki wilderness, mused. For all that, a most erotic pixie.

Forget , told himself firmly. Though had never asked, and she had not volunteered the information, would bet that she wrote regularly several captivated males back the States. Dazzling young doctors -and-coming investment bankers, doubt. Gangly half-breed dirt-grubbers from West Hicksville were not likely fit neatly into her definition potential mate material. Everyone had tried, knew. He’d even seen the temptation Harbos’s face. You had give the good doctor credit, though. might brush against his students every now and then, but was quick voice apologies—even didn’t feel apologetic. struck Cody abruptly that she was still standing there, looking down and waiting for some kind response. “I’m just packing Curly here for the trip the lab indicated the skull. With the agility a gymnast she hopped down the mid-level shelf, careful not kick any dirt into the excavation. Kneeling while pushing back the brim her rumpled hat, she scrutinized the vacant-eyed skull thoughtfully. “Not exactly the second coming the Lord Sipan she quipped tartly. “What The great, unlooted tomb the Moche chieftain that had been discovered near the coast was unparalleled the history South American archaeology. Its gold, silver, and lapidary treasures were the stuff every field worker’s dreams. “Nothing, I suppose. this Curly, where are Manny and Moe “Show a little respect for the dead nodded toward the silent skull. “That’s a cousin mine. Distant, but still a relation Straightening, she grinned down him, enjoying the temporary and entirely artificial adjustment their respective height. “Don’t try that politically correct guilt crap , Cody Westcott She tapped the box with a booted foot. “This dude’s about much your relative Mary Queen Scots mine. a dude “I believe . Kimiko will make the final determination Kimiko Samms was the group’s forensic anthropologist, a specialty that required her live even closer proximity the long dead than her colleagues. “I can feel a kinship across the centuries whoever this person was “Funny Reaching back, she scratched the arch her behind through the soft bush poplin her pants. “All I can feel are chigger bites “Salar should have something for that. doesn’t, I Turning away, Cody started toward the steps that had been cut into the dirt above a nonsensitive corner the site. Sweat poured down his face, mixing with accumulated dirt and dust—archaeologist’s rouge. Time was passing and wanted get the skull the field lab and return time some more digging before the daylight shrank too far below the undulating green horizon. The sweat did not bother him. Apachetarimac’s altitude the air began cool rapidly once the sun had passed its zenith. “What’s that almost didn’t turn. addition her beauty, wit, and intelligence, Kelli Alwydd was renowned camp for her jokes, not all them practical. least, mused, she hadn’t shouted “snake something equally juvenile. paused, wondered why was reacting all, giving her what she wanted. Maybe, decided, was a sucker for clever women. maybe was just a sucker. Irrespective the reason, turned. She was the pit, having jumped down from mid-level softly that hadn’t heard her land. Crouching, she squinted the receding light a portion grid square V-9. Only slightly uncomfortable finding the pose pretty was professional, ambled over join her, affecting air studied disinterest. “Let guess fought keep a lid his trademark sarcasm. “A solid gold peanut, like those the necklace

from Sipan?

just silver? Silver-and-turquoise ear ornaments, with articulated figures

She did not look . “. I think it’s another skull Reaching into one her many shirt pockets, she brought out a pair brushes: one bold, the other fine-haired sable, and began methodically flicking the dirt front her feet. could have knelt peer over her shoulder, stealing a small pleasure from the proximity. Instead, walked around crouch down front her, careful step cleanly over the white cord that sliced the excavation into neat, easily labeled squares. Her brushwork was rapid and precise, like the rest her. Reminiscent scorched polystyrene, the smooth curve a human cranium began emerge from the soil ages which lay entombed. was large, but not outrageously . Like the rest their South American brethren, the Chachapoyans were a people modest stature. With a sigh, Cody straightened. The sun was going down fast now. would dark soon, time bumbling around the area active excavation. Aside from the danger stumbling into open pit, a misplaced foot could irreparable damage half-seen, half-exposed relics. . Harbos was easygoing individual, but not where the work serious archeology was concerned. One his rules required everyone back camp the scheduled dinnertime. addition preventing damage the sites overzealous diggers, this was also a safety measure. Snakes and uncomfortably large spiders emerged soon after sundown, and a land precipitous cliffs and hillsides, wandering about after dark was not a good idea anyway. “It’s another skull, all right she murmured. Busy appraising the sunset, did not look down. “But this one’s weird That drew his attention back his companion. With the sun setting, was already dark the bottom the pit. “What you mean, ‘weird That’s not acceptable scientific terminology Bending over the spot, she blocked his view the emerging bone. “It’s got a hole , like the one you’re taking the lab—but not like the one you’re taking the lab “ that anything like the sense you’re not making knelt have a look for himself, frowning slightly. His flashlights reposed the compact field desk back his tent. the same time, repressed excitement surged through him. A second trepanned skull lying close the first would a good indication that they had stumbled important ceremonial medicinal center, perhaps the nearest thing that existed a Chachapoyan infirmary. Sitting back, she continued work with the two brushes, using the larger sweep away clumps earth and the smaller for cleaning the depressions the skull. Immediately, saw what had inspired her comment. There was indeed a cavity the new skull, but was considerably larger than the one marring the specimen was going deliver the field lab. only was larger, but irregularly shaped, with ragged edges. Even the clumsiest shaman-surgeon could not possibly have expected cure any patient opening such a grievous lesion. Furthermore, was—weird. Without waiting for her finish exposing the base the skull, reached down and cupped his long fingers around , ignoring her protests pulled from the earth. For the first time centuries, was fully exposed the air. “Hey she objected, “I haven’t finished cleaning that “Look this said, holding the osseous discovery out her, his right index finger tracing paths across the bone spoke. “This isn’t weird—it’s impossible Around the rim the opening the roof the skull, a jagged ridge bone the diameter a silver dollar rose upward, like water rising around a pebble dropped still water. stood frozen time, testament some unimaginable cerebral convulsion.

Kelli stared. “That’s pretty extreme. looks like the inside his head blew . Some kind pressure buildup the cerebral fluid Her tone had turned serious. “I don’t know. I didn’t have that much physiology Straightening, held the second skull the rapidly fading light. “ sure doesn’t look like the result some intentional medical procedure, matter how primitive. What could cause the bone rise and solidify this kind position Carefully, ran one finger along the thin, sharp edge the cranial crater. She shook her head. “You got . It’s ugly. Samms going crazy when she sees this Gently, knelt once more replace the skull the slight depression from which had been removed. “I haven’t got another suitable box any more bubble wrap here, and it’s getting dark. We’ll come back for tomorrow Her eyebrows rose slightly. “? This your dig She nodded briskly her left. “Mine’s over there, with Marie-Therese, the base the serpent wall protested. “You found this. It’s unusual, and you’re entitled the credit Her head turned slightly one side she gazed him, carefully placing her brushes back her shirt pocket. “Okay, then. ‘’ . I’ll come over early and can pack together “Good. That’s fair Her acquiescence pleased him for reasons that did not elucidate himself. “Walk back camp “We’d better She scanned the darkening sky speculatively. “Harbos won’t wait five minutes before sending someone look for we’re late. Then we’ll get chewed out for wasting camp resources, cetera “Give him credit Cody’s long legs made easy work earthen steps his companion had negotiate with care. “ haven’t lost anybody this dig yet “Sometimes I’d like get lost Joining him the surface, she studied the surrounding mountains. the distance, smoke rose from the cooking fires small, vertically challenged farms. contrails marred the pristine purpling sky. Northern Peru did not lie the intersection any major transcontinental jet routes, and there was virtually local air traffic. A silence that was largely extinct elsewhere the world stalked the immense mountain valleys like some vast, nebulous, prehistoric visitant. “ too Together they followed the trail through the grass that led toward camp, dodging around the huge trees that grew out the citadel’s soil-cloaked foundation. Around them, the circular walls empty buildings turned single doorways the sun, and the rectangular pyramid the recently identified royal quarters cast its long, broad shadow their progress. The narrow defile, barely wide enough for one person a time squeeze through, cut steeply downward through the hundred-foot-high wall. Where opened onto the rocky, grass-covered slope was still just wide enough for two men enter abreast. Eminently defensible against attacking enemy, made the immense stone walls that flanked the opening seem even higher and more impressive than they were. Turning their right, they followed the trail that had been etched into the slope along the base the wall, careful keep close hand. Wander too far away and a thousand-foot drop waited greet the indifferent. Ahead, the flicker lanterns coming life began dance within the intensifying darkness. There were more than twenty tents for the field team, plus additional lean-tos and makeshift shelters for the native help. far the largest canopy, a substantial, well-anchored sweep tough jungle-resistant weave, served dining room, lecture hall, library, and recreation area. Another, slightly smaller, housed the field lab. “Hungry asked her.

“I’m always hungry, Cody tripped over the compliment before realized . “I’ve seen you eat, and I wonder where you put “ here She tapped the side her head. “Mental exertion burns a lot calories the twilight, her smile shimmered like one the approaching lanterns. “You don’t exactly starve yourself “When you grow always hungry, you get the habit eating anything and everything that’s offered you Espying a long, twisting shape the trail ahead them, hesitated only instant before resuming his stride. this part the world, a smart hiker was wary even fallen branches. Anything with multiple curves demanded a second look. Her smile faded away and her eyes locked his best they could the gathering darkness. “I don’t know much about you, Cody. You’re friendly, you’ll stop work chat with anyone, but you never talk about yourself the creeping shadows her slight shrug was barely perceptible. “This only second dig. Maybe that’s the normal condition for more advanced field associates like yourself. I don’t know. maybe it’s just this place A casual sweep one hand encompassed mountains, valleys, and the citadel wall that towered skyward their right. “ here, everyone tends focus dead people “There’s not much know began, and for the next hour proceeded give the lie his own claim conciseness. Considering how fast her mind and mouth worked, was astonished retrospect how intently she listened. Khuatupec was beside himself, literally well figuratively. The food was moving away! There was nothing could but fume silently, exactly had for hundreds years. Nor was alone. Amnu writhed inside her tree the food almost, but not quite, brushed against one its branches. Tsemak twitched below the ground, inexorably wedded his slice subsurface stratum. Chakasx hummed within the stream that served both home and prison. Throughout the citadel, the mountain, and the fortresslike slopes that had protected the Chachapoyans Apachetarimac for centuries, They stirred. Moved about and were active they had not been for more than five hundred years. that time, other food had come close, though none had been tasty this promised . Its sheer virgin delectability was unprecedented Khuatupec’s long experience. have pass close, many occasions, was maddening. There was nothing any the others could . order eat, was the food that would have make proper contact with them. They could not leave their situs initiate feeding. was infuriating, horrific existence, mitigated only the fact that Khuatupec’s kind were almost impossible kill. Yet, thought furiously, suffer near immortality a state perpetual craving was much curse good fortune. Even worse than not being able feed such delectables was the thought that contact might made with another his kind instead him. Watching another feed his place would almost intolerable not being able feed himself. Should that occur, there would remain only the hope snatching some carelessly discarded leftovers from the main feeding. might not come that. could still the first. Thus far, none had managed feed the newly arrived food, although a week ago Sachuetet had come close. She had been too quick, however, from eagerness eat born hundreds years abstinence. Sensing that something was not right, the food had freed itself before Sachuetet had been able begin feeding fully. Her agonized cry frustration and loss had resounded throughout the mountain. From the others she drew solace. Khuatupec and his kind knew nothing compassion. They knew only how wait, and eat. The light was vanishing from the mountain sucked the ground. Light dark, day

night, was all the same Khuatupec and the others. They never slept, not the thousands years their existence. a concept, sleep was known them. Food, for example, slept. Trees and rocks and water did not. Khuatupec and Amnu and Tsemak and the others did not. Even they had known how about initiating the process, was something they would have avoided assiduously. Self-evidently, sleeping was dangerous. Sleeping was risky. Sleep, and you might miss a feeding.

Two Coschocton Westcott and Kelli Alwydd had suspected would, the second skull did indeed drive Kimiko Samms crazy. Straggling with her laptop, supplementing the information stored her hard drive with disc after disc data, the expedition’s forensics expert could find medical condition compatible with a culture ancient that the Chachapoyans that might account for the spectacular and unsettling hole the cloven skull. Such extensive, presumably violent perforation should have driven the cranial bone inward, shattered the surface into small fragments. Due the age the subject material, she could not even determine whatever had caused the inexplicable calcareous formation was the cause its owner’s death. “C’mon Kelli asked her one day, “surely somebody couldn’t walk around with a cranial deformation like that The diminutive Samms was noncommittal. “People with far worse deformities have survived. The Elephant Man, lepers, Asian and African peoples suffering from severe elephantiasis, ancient dwarves and hunchbacks—you’d surprised “It’s not the circular bone ridge that makes wonder, extreme Standing alongside the anthropologist, Kelli examined the skull and its inscrutable rupture. “It’s the exposure the brain “People can live with that, too With the delicacy a surgeon, Samms was using a fine brush coat the interior the skull with a stabilizing preservative. “Maybe not for long, but they can live Kelli’s gaze drifted the ingress the big tent, the outside masked the protective insect mesh that was all that presently restricted entry. “Whatever the cause the initial trauma, must have been hellishly painful. The mother all migraines Samms concentrated her work. “ don’t know that. There are people with cranial deficiencies who, though they have wear protective headgear all the time, live normal and productive lives Sitting back, she rubbed her eyes, swatted away a mosquito that had slalomed the mesh screen, and smiled speculatively her visitor. front her, the laptop glowed insistently. “Speaking productive lives, I haven’t seen much your tall, silent-type, warrior chieftain lately They shared a mutual chuckle. His ethnic origins notwithstanding, the owlish, workaholic Westcott was about far from either woman’s image a warrior chieftain could imagined. Samms had put a previous occasion, definitely not romance-novel cover material. “He’s not warrior chieftain, anything else Alwydd’s prompt reply was convincing. “But the senior student site, everybody has spend time with him She fiddled with a can fixative. “That , they they want answers questions. Harbos always busy “So’s Westcott, from what I’m told The anthropologist indicated the overflowing folding table that had

serve lab bench, research facility, and office. “I wouldn’t know, myself She grinned, a misplaced elf with short black hair, dirt-streaked face, and impressively elevated . “I don’t get out much. People bring bits dead folk and from that I’m expected explicate entire civilizations “Easier than trying explicate Coschocton Westcott Alwydd started for the mesh that separated the sterile, white interior the tent from the green and brown world bites and stings that lay wait outside. “And isn’t even dead “Good luck trying understand him Samms snapped her high-powered, self-illuminating magnifying glasses back down over her eyes. “, I’ll stick with dead people. Dead men might full contradictions, but least they’re soft-spoken. And more predictable their habits “Cody’s predictable Alwydd drew the mesh aside and stepped out into the stark mountain sunshine. “ just doesn’t know how relax Hunched over instruments and skull, Samms replied without looking . “Sure you want him relax Standing outside the tent, her expression screened the mesh, Alwydd stuck her tongue out her seated, preoccupied colleague. “Funny lady. Stick your bones Despite her studied indifference, Alwydd found herself spending more time Westcott’s company than could simply justified the need know. Perhaps she was intrigued his failure fall all over her, every other student the site had already done. She loved a challenge, scientific social. maybe was because, despite his denials the contrary, was different. possibly was nothing more than the ease with which they worked together. was one bright guy, with a genuine insight and intelligence that did not arise solely from the study and memorization standard texts. maybe she was just bored. Not with her work. That was more than sufficiently fascinating its own right. But aside from her studies, working her paper, and keeping records, there wasn’t much Apachetarimac. Not with the nearest town days away mule, and the only city any consequence another half-day’s jarring journey via minibus jeep. she shadowed him when she could spare the time, admiring his skill with the tools archaeology, his persistence and patience with something insignificant unsculpted potsherd. And then one morning, when she awoke well before dawn, she decided and see wanted join her watching the sun come over the east end the citadel. That was when she found his tent empty, lights out, sleeping bag neatly zipped and stretched out its cot. His predawn absence bemused her. Even workaholics the site, which Coschocton Westcott was not the only one, needed their sleep after a hard day laboring the cloud forest. Harbos insisted everyone back camp a certain hour, but there was monitoring those who might want arise and begin work before breakfast. She ought right back bed, she knew. But—where the hell was ? Making allowance for a possible call nature, she waited outside the tent. Fifteen minutes later still had not returned. A check her watch showed the time: 3:20 A.M Even the Peruvian support staff, including those charged with preparing the morning meal, were not stirring yet. Where the name Atahualpa’s ghost had gone? She had put fresh batteries her flashlight just a week before. Thus armed against the night, with light and firm knowledge the citadel’s layout, she still hesitated. Stumbling around the site the dark was not a good idea, even for someone like herself who knew the location every pit and preliminary excavation. Curiosity finally overcoming caution, she started out camp and the main trail that led the citadel.

There was moon that morning, and the stars were far away and little comfort. The beam illumination that her flashlight cut through the darkness seemed spare and constricted. Twisting trees heavy with orchids and other epiphytes pressed close around her. Soft-footed creatures and things with feet all rustled the brush either side the narrow path. Snakes hunted night, she knew, and wolf spiders big tarantulas, with half-inch-long brown fangs and multiple eyes that gleamed like black mabe pearls. She did her best avoid brushing against the suffocating vegetation lest she spook something small and hungry that might living among the leaves. The improbable wall loomed above her, a familiar not entirely comforting presence she kept her left she made her way the slender defile that was the main entrance. she climbed and into the citadel proper, the ancient stonework shut out the starlight around her. A quick sideways turn and then she was through the keyhole and standing atop the artificial stone plateau the city. Coshocton Westcott, anyone else, there was sign. Only muted whispers the grass and the sleepily moaning branches trees indicated that there was anything else alive within the ruins. This stupid, she told herself. Really stupid. would more stupid still the darkness she tripped and hurt a leg, worse, stumbled into one the excavated pits. Picking her way carefully along the cleared trails, she made her way toward the site where she and Westcott had found the two skulls. was empty, a dark, brooding maw among the encircling stones. That did . Turning one heel, she began retrace her steps. had been a ridiculous idea from the start. Wherever Westcott went wandering before dawn, was evidently not among the ruins the citadel. Descending back through the narrow entrance, she emerged the base the wall and started turn back toward camp, when something flickering the distance caught her attention. came, not from the vicinity the tents nor from within the citadel, but partway down the steep, grass-covered slope the mountain. Frowning, she watched for a long moment before she was sure was a flashlight. might still a local farmer, hunting for a lost sheep pig steer. Domesticated animals occasionally wandered the top the mountain search fresh forage, trailing tired, fussing locals their wake. But the poor farmers who populated the slopes and valleys the Calla Calla could not usually afford flashlights, much less batteries. Switching off her own light, she stood motionless and alone the darkness, the massive limestone wall towering into the night sky behind her, and waited. Eventually a figure appeared, a dark silhouette advancing through the night. When grew near enough for her certain its identity, she called out softly. “Little early for aerobics, isn’t Startled, Westcott’s light came , shining into her face. She put a hand shield her eyes. “ you mind The beam was lowered immediately, and she switched her own . “Sorry. I didn’t see you standing there, Kelli “ kidding. I thought you could see the dark His expression was typically noncommittal. “I was preoccupied She nodded slowly. Neither them moved the direction the camp. Overhead, a cavalry clouds was advancing westward from the jungle, threatening attack with warm, driving rain. “Preoccupied with what the absence moonlight was hard make out his face. “Nothing much replied evasively. “Just looking around “Down there She pointed down the slope. “Why? the view any better? must , for you lose sleep over . Funny thing, though: It’s been experience that sweeping panoramas lose some their aesthetic impact when viewed the middle the night She stepped past him. “ it’s that striking, maybe I ought have a look for myself

Reaching out quickly, caught her upper arm with one hand and held her back. The gesture was uncharacteristic was unexpected, and her surprise was evident the slight uncertainty her tone. “Excuse she said, slowly and deliberately. let her arm. She could feel him studying her, there the darkness. “Okay His reluctance was obvious. “I’ll show you. But you have promise keep a secret “Oho! Dug something special, have She was relaxed now, having found him out. “When did this happen? Yesterday? Last week was shaking his head turned lead the way downward. “I’ve been coming here, early every morning, for weeks She paralleled his descent, careful where she put her feet. The grass was damp and slippery, and the grade dangerously steep. “That’s not very sociable you. I thought you were the ultimate team player She made clucking noises with her tongue. “. Harbos will not pleased was not defensive she expected. “I wanted make sure what I had before I told anyone else. I found . It’s discovery was more emphatic than she had ever seen him. Then did have emotions. “Well, I won’t give you away Looking downslope, she could see nothing but grass and the occasional tree. The ground cover began give way bare, loose rock. Despite her caution and her good hiking boots, she slipped once twice. Westcott had such difficulty. But then, she reminded herself, was familiar with the terrain they were covering. Featureless darkness loomed ahead. She felt a strong, upward welling breeze her face, signifying the proximity unclimbable sheer drop. wonder one else had explored this way, she thought. Another twenty meters and they would need climbing gear; ropes and pitons and harnesses. Just when she was afraid was going lead her over unscalable cliff, stopped and turned abruptly his left. A short walk brought them uncomfortably narrow ledge below which the mountain fell away farms thousands feet below. Raising her own light, she looked for him. had disappeared. She experienced a brief but intense moment genuine panic before she heard his voice. “Keep coming, Kelli. This way The beam his flashlight suddenly emerged from the side the mountain. The ceiling the tunnel was low, keeping with the modest stature the Chachapoyans, and she had bend slightly keep from banging her head the rock overhead. front her, Westcott was worse shape, forced bend almost double walked. Revealed her light, telltale marks the walls showed that the sides the tunnel had been hewn out the solid rock with simple hand tools. The passageway emerged into a natural limestone cavern. Stalactites were still evidence, hanging like frozen draperies from the roof, but there were stalagmites. These had all been cut away leave behind a floor flat and smooth any the citadel. A portion that fortress, she realized, must now lie directly above them. Raising her light, she searched for Westcott. Inadvertently and unavoidably, her questing beam fell one the enclosing walls. She let out audible gasp. her light swept the wall, revealed row upon row finely chiseled designs and pictographs, the most eroded which was infinitely better preserved than anything the citadel overhead. For the first time, the neatly etched abstract decorations the Chachapoyans were complemented bas-reliefs people, animals, and their surroundings. was unprecedented record Chachapoyan life before the Incan conquest, perfectly preserved from damaging rain and wind the confines the cavern. “This the greatest archaeological discovery this part the world since Cuelap Her awed words fell like

raindrops the still air the cave. “I know His guileless reply was matter--fact. “Even the local people don’t know about . It’s lain here, hidden away from the outside world, for least five hundred years. Until I found Utterly spellbound the wondrous carvings, she let her light trail along the wall, its beam revealing one marvel after another. “The farmers have been all over these mountains. Maybe they kept this place a secret, but they must know about shook his head. “The entrance was sealed and, far I could determine, untouched She blinked and looked toward him. “Sealed? With what “Stones. Not Chachapoyan the darkness, his face was hidden from her. “Incan. The Incas who conquered Apachetarimac and gave its name closed this place . I can show you a couple the stones. The style unmistakable: right angles the inside, inclined the outward-facing edge. Unfortunately, most them rolled over the cliff below the entrance when I removed the first few His voice fell slightly. “I was lucky I didn’t get swept over with them “Why would the Incas seal this place and leave the rest the citadel exposed Her flashlight winked off, leaving her momentarily without illumination. She slapped the plastic tube hard, several times, and the light came back . they lost both lights this place … Not worry, she told herself. There seemed only the one passage, and ran a straight line back the outside. A check her watch showed that dawn was approaching. Surrounded something rather more exciting than newly exposed bones a couple broken pots, she was reluctant leave, and said . was already moving toward the passageway. “Come . don’t want missed breakfast “I’m not hungry she replied truthfully, having stumbled across nourishment another kind. “ you’ve been coming here for weeks, you must have formed least a few preliminary hypotheses about this place. Why separate from the rest the citadel? What about its function Chachapoyan culture? What was all this for She swept her light around the sizable chamber. “And why did the Incas seal ? I know you’ve been thinking about , Cody. Yours not idle mind coughed slightly. “Persistent little bird, aren’t you? Sure, I’ve been formulating theory. But I hungry Bending low, started back the tunnel. “I’ll share everything I know, I think, and what I suspect, you’ll just keep this quiet and not tell Harbos any the others “Sure thing She followed behind him led the way out. “ you’ll let work with you stopped suddenly, she almost ran into him. For the second time, accidentally, his light flashed blindingly her face. “I guess I don’t have much choice, I “, you don’t She enjoyed the feeling control. “Not unless you toss over the nearest cliff His response was silent. “Don’t funny she finally ordered him. “I’ll keep your secret, and when you think the time right reveal all this the rest the group, I’ll there support and confirm you the discoverer. Also, you’ll benefit from expertise, which different from yours She thought she could see him nodding himself. “I could sure use some help. Not mention the company “Then it’s settled Reaching out, she prodded him with her flashlight. “Maybe I lied. Maybe I’m getting a little hungry, too ventured a hesitant smile. “You’ll find that putting three four hours work before anyone else does wonders for the appetite Pivoting once more, resumed following the tunnel outward.

True her word, she uttered not a whisper about the passageway, the cavern, their astonishing contents. Every morning she arose pitch darkness, smothered the alarm, dressed silently and efficiently, and joined Westcott. Following the trail that had been cut the citadel, they moved quickly and silence, not talking switching their lights until was time begin the mildly treacherous descent the tunnel entrance. The first several days they were underground together Cody spent showing her the rest the exposed reliefs and pictographs. Much more, felt, lay concealed behind a collapsed wall crumbled rock. “Look this instructed her, pointing upward. She expected see more pictographs and reliefs. Instead, there was a noticeable dimpling the ceiling, filled with broken stone. “I believe that the bottom a shaft leading the citadel. Somewhere above there must unexcavated chamber that holds the surface opening this cavern She eyed the collapsed stone uneasily. “I don’t think I want spend a lot time standing underneath that. What our work here loosens the fill and all comes crashing down “I don’t think that will happen. It’s apparently been stable for centuries. Besides, I don’t think it’s a natural collapse. I think the shaft was plugged the Incas, just like the entrance the tunnel She frowned. “Why would they that was kneeling beside his collection tools for digging and cleaning. “When find that out, we’ll know why they sealed the entrance this cave Bending, she knelt work alongside him with dental pick and whiskbroom. “Couldn’t have been much a seal you were able take apart all yourself gently brushed debris from a relief showing men and women working a field. “Maybe something else kept people away. A taboo, priestly warnings, royal edict from Cuzco—sooner later, we’ll find out His confidence was infectious. Two weeks passed before they stumbled across the second tunnel. Narrower than the first, proved a difficult passage even for Alwydd. She was amazed how lithely her much taller companion wriggled wormlike through the cramped corridor. They emerged into a second, smaller chamber. Unlike the one that now lay behind them, the new discovery bore all the hallmarks artificiality. broken speleotherms presented themselves for examination. This was a room that had been hollowed out hand, the result back-breaking physical effort the part hundreds hands working over many dozens years. shaft, blocked otherwise, marred the polychromed ceiling. Disappointment followed discovery. one had ever found a Chachapoyan royal tomb, and the room seemed a perfect candidate. Their lights did not flash off gold silver, turquoise lapis lazuli. They did, however, reveal a large round stone situated the center the room. Unlike the surrounding limestone, was dark granite. Somehow, had been carried dragged from elsewhere this improbable site. Very dark granite, Cody thought. Closer inspection the stone showed why. “Bloodstains Raising his light, played around the intricately decorated walls. anything, the carving here was even more refined than that which filled the larger chamber behind them. “This was a place sacrifice “Sure was The unflappable Alwydd was already checking her camera preparatory methodically

recording the succession exquisite bloodthirsty reliefs that lined the circular walls. “Let’s get work. We’ve only got hour before have back camp they began, they sensed nothing. The atmosphere did not grow heavy, the darkness did not press any closer, trying strangle their lights. But around them, beneath them, above them, ancient unwholesomeness stirred. existed a silent frenzy expectation. they toiled, Westcott and Alwydd occasionally made contact with a relief ran speculating fingers over stones and stains. But never the right stone, the right stain. Millimeters away from havoc and ruin and ultimate despair, they worked unaware, their living, breathing, human presence driving unseen host fevered distraction. the two who worked largely silence, side side, nothing was amiss the archaic chamber. Nothing disturbed their work interfered with their efforts. The only things that pressed close around them were their thoughts, the cool, damp mountain air, and the mold ages. when old Elvar Ariola, one the mule wranglers and camp assistants, went mad, they did not make the connection. The food was very near. Nearer than had been a long, long time. Utchatuk trembled with anticipation, while all the others her kind looked with a mixture envy and hope. they could not feed, they could least try imagine the satisfaction and satiation another. There had been many missed opportunities, many close chances. Bending, Ariola reached for the dead, broken limb preparatory tossing aside, making a clearer path for the mule was leading. Braying and bucking, the pack animal was resisting the reins for apparent reason. The stream barnyard Spanish the elderly wrangler spat the animal had even less effect than usual. Muttering under his breath, wrapped leathery, toughened fingers around the fallen piece insectgnawed wood. never felt a thing. A vast, inaudible, imperceivable sigh swept over the mountaintop and rushed down into the deep valleys. Another had fed. And would continue feed, for a long and satisfying while. The psychic ripple the ether was not felt any the humans working the site; not the researchers, their superiors, the locals who took care the mundane details camp life. But four hundred feet below, a farm dog began howling for apparent reason, and the cloud forest across the ridge, a flock startled blue-headed parrots exploded from the tree which they had been roosting. Otherwise, all was silent, normal, unchanged. Except—the one who had been fortunate enough feed was greedy. Having entered into and penetrated the food, Utchatuk should have settled down a long and comfortable residence, the manner any successful parasite. Instead, she began feed continuously, upsetting the natural balance her unknowing host, undermining its stability. The others her kind could nothing with her. They could only remonstrate best they were able, but were powerless affect her directly. She continued feed without pause, engorging herself her host, shivering with delight the sensations satiation that coursed through her. The result, course, was that a very short while she succeeded severely damaging the host. Gravely unbalanced, went mad. Only a few days had passed from the time Utchatuk had begun feed until, clutching its head and rolling its eyes, the host flung itself screaming over the side a sheer cliff spite the startled, last-second effort other food stop . The result was tragic. For a little while the food congregated all one place, confused and out reach any those who would feed. Worse, her haste gorge herself, Utchatuk had failed reproduce. She would leave none behind follow her. Tragic, yes—but hardly a crisis. There were many the others, healthy and eager but the same time

patient and calculating. the coming weeks, developed that several more them were granted the opportunity dine. More sensible their good fortune, they were tolerant their hosts, and did not overfeed. Resisting gluttony, they sated their craving gradually, only damaging their chosen, unknowing organisms a little a time, preserving them they would continue able provide unwitting nourishment well the future. One Utchatuk’s kind even succeeded reproducing successfully, drawing admiring, undetectable hosannas from the others. this one place alone, there were dozens them. Close hand, hundreds more. And the larger world— the larger world beyond the green mountains and lush valleys, there were many millions. Their presence unseen, undetected, unsuspected the multitude oblivious, unaware, cattlelike food. had always been , always would . Millions them. Each one ever hungry, and ready fed.

Three The extensive, thoroughly researched and documented paper that was eventually submitted jointly Coschocton Westcott and Kelli Alwydd resulted both them receiving their doctorates from disparate but equally admiring faculties. Moreover, the weeks stolen early morning hours spent together the close confines the secret Chachapoyan ceremonial chamber (for such they had determined ) eventuated a joint undertaking another kind. Before leaving Peru, the two new Doctors Science became engaged. Within a month returning the States, they were married. Eschewing any professional jealousy their success, a proud Martin Harbos presented them with a double-spouted, unbroken Chimu pot the shape a llama. Subsequent the publication their scholarly and influential paper, there followed a certain amount spirited competition for their academic services. A delighted archaeology department Arizona State University Tempe accepted them jointly instructors, with promises tenure, professional approbation, and full professorships follow. The newly appointed, diplomated, and happily married couple settled easily into a comfortable suburban home east Scottsdale. They had returned from Peru with quite a lot baggage. Nearly a ton, exact, consisting fragments basrelief, pottery, remarkably well-preserved weavings, and other material from the Apachetarimac site. Between teaching assignments, every bit had identified, photographed, dated, catalogued, and labeled. Though occupied much their spare time, the work gave rise few complaints because each was doing what they loved, the company the one they loved. What more could one ask life? One bas-relief occupied Cody’s attention particularly, much that devoted inordinate amount time attempting decipher its meaning. The majority the Chachapoyan reliefs and pictographs they had found depicted scenes from everyday life, were representations myths and legends. This one was different. Deep the secondary, sacrificial chamber and Kelli had discovered, they had encountered anomaly: a flat, carved panel set among all the traditional curved surfaces. struck Cody standing apart from its surroundings, not only because its shape but its contents. Kelli was less enamored the object, and when had been shown him, Harbos had fact been mildly dismissive, but Cody had seen that the panel was among those pieces conscripted for shipment back the States. Now, much Kelli’s quiet amusement, devoted all the time could spare trying comprehend a significance that seemed apparent only him. “You’re going drive yourself crazy trying extract specifics from that stone Across the lab tables, she

smiled affectionately her hard-working but sometimes obstinate new husband. Beneath her practiced fingers, a complex polychromed pot was slowly regaining its shape, like a bottle whose shattering was being filmed reverse. “You know how generalized, and often abstract, the Chachapoyans were their work She indicated the basement lab which they were toiling. Behind her, ranks neatly labeled shelves and boxes full the human sediment several dozen ancient Amerindian cultures rose all the way the ceiling. Tools, dirt, dust, and specimens speckled the tables. “Until you found the tunnel and the chambers, there was even less Bending her head, she stared intently down through oversized, illuminated magnifying lens, reaching out change its supportive arm slightly adjust the focus. “That’s why I think this particular relief important replied evenly. Delicately, she slipped a dollar-sized piece pottery into open break the pot she was restoring, holding immobile allow the glue she had smeared one edge set. One more piece endless puzzle done. “It’s a fine panel, a good piece work she admitted, “but a Mayan stele it’s not. There may may not something like a Chachapoyan Rosetta stone—but that relief’s not “I know that His tone was sharper than had intended. His finger traced a small portion the panel. This figure here, thought doggedly—what did mean? Was supposed represent a man, a god, a monkey, a goat? The multiplicity figures the relief combined with the intricacy the overlying abstract design made for maddeningly contradictory possible interpretations. All could was persevere. The scrape chair concrete floor made him look from his work. Kelli was slipping into her sweater. The Valley the Sun could turn surprisingly cold winter, especially night—a fact the chamber commerce did not trumpet the glossy brochures distributed nationally during the time trolling for tourists. “Leaving asked. She checked her watch. “It’s almost eleven-thirty, Cody. I’ve got a ten o’clock seminar tomorrow and a little sleep would nice. You coming hesitated. “You take the car. The last bus one. I really want finish this section. I think I’m close “Close what She favored him with a wry but affectionate smile. Hunched over the relief, glanced just long enough reply. “Understanding “Hey, I understand already She wagged a finger him. “I understand that you’d better that last bus She gestured the workbench, strewn with fine tools that would have looked equally home a surgery they did the lab. “You keep falling asleep here and one night your head’s going land a pick instead the table. And I’m not going the one pull out your obsessed brain “You mean, like here Reaching and smiling, tapped the top his head. Taking her cue, she came around the table and kissed him the indicated spot. drew her down and their lips met rather more firmly. When they finally parted, whispered, “I won’t miss the bus. I promise “I’ll hold you that. I’m sure hell not climbing out a warm bed come back here and fetch you three A.M. some other ungodly hour With a last kiss, she rose and exited the lab, heading for the elevator and leaving him with a clear view a distinctly unprofessorial posterior twitch. The calculated manner her exit distracted him, was designed , but only for a little while. Within minutes was furiously entering notes the laptop that rested, open and glowing insistently, the workbench his right.

this was not a goat but simply a distorted man, and this was smoke instead background cloud, then followed that the center section, whose meaning had been eluding him for frustrating weeks, had … Not being the demonstrative type, did not shout “Eureka Besides, was not yet positive his interpretation the small section relief. When considering the meaning, the abstract overlay still had taken into account and could not contradict his latest reading certain shapes and silhouettes. did, would have start anew, proceeding from yet another set suppositions and assumptions. But for the first time nearly a hundred tries, the preliminaries looked promising. Very promising. Wiping aching eyes, made sure back his computer notes before shuttering the lab and taking his leave. decided not tell Kelli. Not right away. Not until was absolutely sure his findings. They would demand peer review, knew, preferably carried out tandem with experimental corroboration. rode home the bus, alone except for two grad students locked the throes oblivious passion the back seat, wondered who might inveigle into performing the latter. needed not another archaeologist, nor anthropologist, but a chemist. One with time enough spare some pro bono lab work. would also have contact the zoology department. had finally succeeded deciphering the relief correctly, ultimate authentication his interpretation was going very much interdisciplinary exercise. A fey smile lightened his otherwise self-absorbed, solemn expression. Not that anyone the bus noticed, cared. Harry Keeler would perfect. This was just the sort sufficiently fanciful, off-the-wall procedure that would appeal him. knew Keeler only slightly, from a couple university social functions. But his reputation was sound, and insofar Cody knew, was the only faculty member out several hundred who had appeared the evening news during the past three months—not a consequence his academic work, but for participating a record-setting multiple sky-diving jump California. a senior chemist, his professional credentials were impeccable. The only question was, would interested a diversionary bit interdepartmental experimentation? Not only was Keeler interested, Cody’s relief and gratification the senior professor proved downright enthusiastic. “I remember the announcement when you and your wife accepted your appointments here. I recall, there was a bit actual excitement among the old fossils charge your department Blue eyes twinkled mirthfully. “What kind experiment, exactly, that you want run for you, . Westcott “I’ve been studying Chachapoyan bas-reliefs. The Chachapoyans were a mysterious, pre-Inca people who lived The chemist put a hand forestall the rest Cody’s explanation. “Some read outside our fields, young fella. I feel confident that I know the minimum necessary about our extinct southern cousins. you’ve been reading the elder books, have you Cody smiled. “The elder stones, anyway. I’m taken with one particular. Exceptional piece work. Clear and unambiguous. least qualified himself, “ looks unambiguous . was removed from a very important place what now believe the spiritual center Chachapoyan civilization. I’ve been doing a lot work with these past couple months. Too much, wife would say. But I think I’ve found something interesting. I need somebody like yourself see adds anything. And I’d like concluded apologetically, “ this soon possible “Why the rash Keeler smiled and waved a group students and his younger, taller colleague continued walking toward the Hayden Library. “Because the panel has back Peru next week. Everything brought back with only study loan and destined into a new wing the National Museum devoted the Chachapoyan culture. I’ll still have

excellent photographs, but I much prefer being able check the original material. It’s a touchy-feely kind thing, that’s not too unscientific explanation Keeler stepped over a sprinkler head that was protruding slightly from the grass. the cool winter morning, both men wore sweaters. “I quite understand. I much prefer dealing with actual chemicals instead formulas. Wet versus dry, you might say. You still haven’t told what you want Cody was gesturing continuously spoke. “I believe the panel shows various carefully configured ingredients being combined into a liquid that intended swallowed. There’s mistaking the importance the Chachapoyans attached . Everything the panel exquisitely rendered and colored, almost fine what you would find undisturbed Egyptian tomb stopped waving his hands about. “It’s not another Lord Sipan, but know absolutely nothing about Chachapoyan medical techniques. near I’ve been able decipher, this brew, potion, whatever , has something with vision Keeler was suddenly uncertain. “You really want play around with some five-century-old pharmaceutical? I expect that could dangerous Cody responded vigorously. “The reliefs clearly show that the potion supposed improve one’s vision, not damage . I think the prescription too elaborate some form liquid punishment “I see The chemist was still hesitant “Improve your vision how “I haven’t figured that out yet. It’s a little confusing. Not the relief itself: That’s clear enough. But there are several possible readings the final interpretation They rounded the corner the Social Sciences building. The library loomed ahead, white concrete and dark glass intended shield the precious contents against the brutal summer sun. “You wouldn’t reading a riddle here, would you, Professor Westcott? Academic freedom notwithstanding, I could get into trouble somebody thinks we’re playing around with ancient Peruvian hallucinogens For instant, Cody wasn’t sure the senior chemist was being serious not. When decided that was, hastened reassure him. “I promise you, Professor Keeler, this serious science. I’m not interested becoming another Carlos Castenada ‘Coschocton Westcott, the Don Juan Tempe’ Keeler chuckled the thought. ”Wasn’t was supposed a Mexican shaman Cody held the door aside the senior professor could enter first. “The Peruvians say Castenada stole all Don Juan’s teachings from their own shamanistic traditions, that much what’s the books clearly Peruvian and not Mexican. I’ve participated some casual debates the matter myself. But we’re not dealing with quasi-contemporary Indian mysticism here. The reliefs the panel are real. Real enough interpret “And you intend try this potion yourself Comfortable inside the perfectly climate-controlled library, Keeler was doffing his sweater. “I’ll sign any necessary releases. I’ll absolve you any responsibility The archaeologist smiled encouragingly. “The potion may not anything Keeler was not smiling back. “ may induce hallucinations. I believe that typical South American shamanistic practices. convulsions, worse eyed his younger colleague sharply. “What does your lovely wife think about all this Cody didn’t hesitate. “She thinks I’m slightly obsessed Keeler nodded slowly they headed for the elevators that would take them the stacks. “Does she also

know you intend personally sample some half-millennia-old mystic Amerindian distillation unknown provenance and dubious taste Cody looked away. “I haven’t told her yet The older man clearly was not pleased. Cody was afraid that the senior academic was going withdraw his expertise, but had chosen the right chemist for the task. A thoughtful Keeler was too intrigued back out. When murmured the elevator, “How complex this ancient brew you want take a shot concocting?”, Cody knew had the partner needed. Even , was instinctively reluctant surrender the material had spent long weeks painstakingly assembling from a myriad sources. Among other items, these included strips Acacia spindida bark from the university’s botanical collection, chores beetle larvae from a professor entomology Florida State, sap from the gnarled omata tree that grew atop Apachetarimac itself, leaves from a handful carefully delineated epiphytes, the flowers two different kinds wild orchid, and a droplet epidermal venom from the skin Dendrobates Joanna, one the most toxic all the poison-arrow frogs. Ultimately, the only holdup came when put his request for the most common all the necessary ingredients. Fortunately, Harry Keeler’s standing not only the university but within his profession was sufficient overcome the initial uncertainty their eventual supplier. was chortling softly related the tale his younger colleague. “You should’ve seen . Vinaprath’s face when I spoke him via video mail They were the university’s organic chemistry lab. Outside, the sun was finally setting through the disgusting winter smog that tended envelope the greater Phoenix basin warm winter days. “ ‘You are not going anything funny with these coca leaves, are you, Harry ” way punctuation, the chemist set a handful unprepossessing green leaves down the workbench, close the compact blender and centrifuge. They looked like leaves from a common elm. Cody nodded their direction. “There aren’t enough leaves there make more than a couple cups tea. I can recommend myself. It’s particularly good for combating soroche “Excuse Keeler was busy preparing the leaves for the blender, carefully measuring out the necessary volume water accompany them. “Altitude sickness Trying restrain his excitement, the archaeologist scanned the length and breadth the workbench. “Where are the other ingredients Keeler looked from his work just long enough point. “See that small beaker over there? According the instructions you supplied , and very precise they were, too, the coca extract the last component your Chachapoyan oblation After adding the indicated number leaves the specified volume water, switched the blender and checked his watch. Three minutes thirty should , decided. “None this difficult make , provided you’re not squeamish about puréeing bugs Cody picked the beaker. contained maybe half a pint dark, viscous fluid. Cautiously, sniffed the contents, his nose wrinkling response. The odor was pretty foul, but not intolerable. doubted the addition the coca leaf extract would alter the potion’s palatability very much one way the other. “You still haven’t told your wife, have you Keeler’s tone shut off the blender and transferred its contents the centrifuge was mildly accusing. “I didn’t want worry her. case anything should wrong. Which I don’t think will was dark outside now, the lights the campus starkly illuminating walkways and entrances. Occasionally, a hard-working student two would materialize out the blackness and pass through the light, only swallowed the next patch gathering night. “Besides Cody finished, “ she knew, she’d kick butt

“I’m not sure that wouldn’t the proper course action His mouth set, Keeler switched off the centrifuge and removed the outer container. Cody looked expectantly, the older man added its contents the oily liquid the beaker, then placed the Pyrex container over a burner and activated the flame beneath. “I hope this doesn’t ruin everything murmured. “You said you didn’t think was necessary use a wood fire, the manner the Chachapoyans The archaeologist shook his head, his attention fastened the soft roar blue flame beneath the beaker. “I’m convinced it’s the heat that’s important, not the source Keeler nodded once. “How will you able tell when it’s ‘done’?” “Color. When comes a boil should a dark green “How dark The chemist was nothing not precise. Cody studied one the last photographs the small album held. “We’ll just have guess. The age the original paint the relief makes impossible tell exactly. But then, the artists may not have had the necessary pigments depict the colors exactly, either chose let the odorous concoction boil for several minutes before directing Keeler remove from the flame. Refrigeration would have made drinkable sooner, but Cody was anxious not employ any processes unavailable the Chachapoyans. The gas flame had been a necessary evil, but felt that utilizing refrigeration simply improve the taste would have been pushing matters too far. and Keeler sat and chatted and did their best ignore the beaker liquid that sat slowly cooling a stone slab atop the workbench. When the fluid had been reduced the temperature and consistency warm cocoa, Cody hefted the beaker. Keeler stood nearby, cell phone hand. His younger associate eyed the device uncertainly. “Who are you going call “Nobody, I hope Keeler was all business now, his expression dead serious. “Emergency medical I have . You’re sure you don’t want try this potion a lab rat first Having had weeks think the matter through, Cody shook his head sharply. “The results would not necessarily applicable a human. I decided a long time ago that I’d have the lab rat raised the mouth the beaker his lips. “Besides, why inflict something that smells like this some poor, unsuspecting rodent laughed nervously. Now that the experiment had proceeded beyond speculation actual execution, found himself hesitating. The longer pondered what was about , the stronger the urge became set aside for further study. “You don’t look the least Frankensteinish Despite the seriousness the moment, Keeler was ultimately unable suppress his natural good humor for more than a few moments. was the slight boost his confidence Cody needed. Tipping back the beaker, drank, swallowing hard and fast lest the taste linger too long his mouth. was less vile than anticipated, but didn’t think he’d seeing the concoction supermarket shelves anytime soon, squinched between six-packs Pepsi and Seven-— even next bright yellow bottles citrus-flavored Inca Cola. The bitter liquid settled his stomach. After forcing himself drain the contents the beaker the last, acrid drop, set carefully aside and sat down. Holding his cell phone tightly, Keeler stared across his tall colleague, searching the younger man’s face for signs distress. “How you feel

“Fine Cody replied after a moment’s deliberation. “What you feel The archaeologist paused for another long moment before replying. “Not a damn thing was too soon tell was more relieved than disappointed. “Nothing. Nothing all Five minutes passed comparative silence, interrupted only the chemist’s occasional soft-voiced inquiries his associate’s state health. Other than acknowledging a slight queasiness, obvious and unavoidable consequence ingesting unsavory a libation, Cody felt nothing whatsoever. The longer went without experiencing some sort harmful reaction, the angrier the archaeologist became. Finally, he’d had enough. rose from his .seat. “Kelli was right. I’ve been wasting time Quietly furious himself, searched the room. “Where’s sweater? I’m out here “Not a proper scientific summation Keeler admonished him. Though appreciated the older man’s attempt cheer him, Cody was mood engage strained, uplifting banter. Locating his neatly folded sweater where had left a corner, pulled angrily down over his head, thrusting his arms through the sleeves though taking a couple punches unseen opponent. “I appreciate your help, Harry. I really . It’s just a damn shame didn’t lead anything “You’re sure Keeler followed him the door. “Your vision has not changed any way? You don’t see clearly now that the rain gone spite the sour mood into which was rapidly sinking, Cody had grin. “I see clearly that I’ve spent the equivalent more than three solid weeks lab time obsessing a blind alley. Maybe you have a Chachapoyan shaman get the full effect the potion. Unfortunately, the last one died about five hundred years ago, and I don’t think pharmacist Walgreen’s going able help much with this Turning the doorway, shook the senior chemist’s hand. “Thank you, Professor, for your help. Not mention your tolerance overeager younger colleague’s fevered imaginings Keeler responded understandingly. “Hey, might have led something. You never know. You don’t carry out the experiment, you never find out you can blow something . cure a disease, vulcanize rubber, whatever else might that you’re after. You and your lady—Kelli, rightmust come dinner house some evening. Marlis one helluva good cook, and I know she’d like meet you both. Call “I will Feeling a little better, Cody gripped the older man’s hand firmly one more time before letting . great discoveries had been made, revelations had been forthcoming the result his hard work, but had made a friend— small achievement the tempestuous world academic social life. Kelli would like Harry Keeler too, felt. There was one the elevator, one the hallway, and one loitering outside the chemistry building when let himself out. A short walk would take him his car, parked one the interior campus streets. When told her everything that had transpired, Kelli would share his disappointment. Privately, knew she would relieved hear that his preoccupation with the single panel reliefs was end, and they could resume a normal life with normal office hours. tugged the hem his sweater, the cool night air invigorating his stride. Even nothing had come his work and the resulting experiment, the procedure had been instructive. good science, nothing was ever wasted, including a lack results. was halfway the car, striding nimbly through the west-side sculpture garden, when his traitorous stomach mercilessly and viciously ambushed him. The sharp pain did more than snap him double: short-circuited his legs and brought him his knees. Eyes wide, clutched ineffectually his stomach with both hands.

Breathing hard, looked around, staring through shocked eyes that were rapidly blurring with tears. The pain was intense, had swallowed a bucket acupuncture needles that suddenly hit bottom. Weak a kitten, fell over his side, his legs drawing into a fetal position, his arms locked against his belly. His guts were fire. students, groundskeepers, patrolling security personnel saw him lying there among the mostly abstract and overpriced sculptures, a long drink professor writhing spasmodically the neatly clipped grass. The timer-controlled sprinklers came without warning. Lying the damp turf, soaked through, did battle with his own insides, uncertain the ultimate outcome. After what felt like hours but reality was more than ten minutes, the pain began subside. found could breathe normally again. The irrigating water, falling like rain, aided his attitude not his digestion. Coca leaves, arrow frog toxin, and bug guts, told himself struggled his knees. Serves you right. Serves you damn well right. hacked the residue the back his lungs, and something black and thick spewed from his mouth. Rising slowly, wiped his lips with the back his wrist, not caring stained the sweater. Keeler would delighted hear that their little clandestine experiment had produced some results after all, even their nature was such that Cody could have done without them. felt that the same consequences could have been induced much more simply and cheaply drinking from the carton milk that had been sitting the back the small refrigerator his office for two weeks too long. shaky had been puking for hours, straightened and took a hesitant step. Encouragingly, the movement did not induce the pain return. Advancing carefully, one step a time, resumed walking toward the car, ready collapse anew his belly should try waylay him again. did not, but the queasiness remained, the ground itself had suddenly become infirm. had never been seasick his life, but from first-hand experiences described others, supposed the sensations must very much akin what was presently feeling. Glancing furtively around the gently rolling, grassy sculpture garden, was relieved there had been one around witness his embarrassing little nocturnal episode. staggered toward the street where his car was parked, his thoughts focused home, Kelli’s waiting embrace, bed, but truth told, not more than a very little the supper that she would have waiting for him. Food! Azahoht sensed its approach. had come close feeding and reproducing several times the past month, only thwarted each occasion last-minute changes the paths his intended quarry. But this one was very near, and moving unsteadily. might well need rest against something solid for support, steady itself, and Azahoht’s dwelling was solid any object the vicinity. Let the food make but casual contact, and feeding could begin immediately. Azahoht waited expectantly monitored the erratic course the food. Come closer, thought hungrily. That’s right. This way, not that. Just a little closer. There, that left hand! Stretch out, reach for abode, touch . Make contact. Eagerly, extended a portion himself the direction the food. Something happened then that was extraordinary, Azahoht could scarce believe . was unprecedented his experience, the entire long course his existence. knew that such a thing was possible from contact with others his kind, but had never actually observed the phenomenon himself. Now that happened, involving him directly, was too stunned know how react. could only draw back into his dwelling shock. was impossible, was astounding, defied anything and everything his far-ranging experience. was the very fabric existence had been suddenly turned inside out. Inconceivable though might , there was mistaking what happened. None whatsoever. The food saw him.

Four Still woozy from the gastrointestinal tremor that had knocked him his knees, Cody was less than fifty feet from the street and his car when reached out steady himself against the nearest sculpture. was a sinuous, free-form needle bolted-together pink and black granite boulders that aspired inspiration but fell more than a little short the artist’s lofty intent. would cool the touch and, necessary, would support his weight easily, providing a convenient backrest with which ease his disturbed equilibrium for a few precious moments. His left hand fumbled the direction a stone protrusion. And quickly drew back without making contact. Blinking hard, gawked the smooth, polished stone. the approach his hand, something had begun emerge from within. looked like a triplet intertwined tentacles. Each tip terminated a dime-sized sucker, and a handful small, glowering eyes were scattered like black marbles along the slick, writhing surfaces. Uttering soft guttural sounds that only resembled words, Cody staggered away from this hazy apparition. Still clearly visible and making attempt conceal themselves, the tentacles fluttered the still night air, rampant eyes goggling him, before finally withdrawing back into the hard granitic body the sculpture. His breathing rapid, heart pounding, stomach still threatening possible eruption, Cody forced himself stand motionless contemplated the beguiling but deceitful work art. loomed before him the darkness, belabored with sharply defined shadows cast the overhead lights that illuminated pathway and street, longer the innocent expression unknown artist’s aspirations. Bending slowly, never taking his eyes off the twisted, spiraling shape, reached down pick a handful white gravel from the decorative border that lined a flower bed. the last instant happened look down, only have his questing fingers recoil horror. Each thumb-sized chunk river rock was twitching a tiny, ethereal filament his direction. Emitting a soft, startled cry, lurched backward—and fell. The thick grass helped cushion his fall. lay there, panting like overheated dog, and stared the gravel. lay like a frozen white river behind the boundaries its decorative border, innocent and unmoving. Rolling onto his side, let his gaze flick between gravel and sculpture. The ground was comforting beneath him, almost cushiony. Almost— massaging. Uncertainly, turned his face the earth. Inches below his nose, miniscule, almost invisible threads were reaching for him, one for every single blade grass. With inarticulate cry scrambled his feet, pulling free the almost microscopic tendrils, and ran for his car, pursued nightmares. Exhausted fear and tension, reached without incident, though ran thought had felt the blades grass clutching with individual, infinitesimal force his shod feet. Afraid look down, scared touch anything, was relieved see that nothing sprang him from the body his little fourdoor, and that the surface the sidewalk which was presently standing remained flat, white, and inanimate. God, thought wildly, God—what’s going ? What’s happening ? Slowly, turned, believing was prepared for anything. The carpet questing filaments had vanished back into the lawn. The granite sculpture stabbed virtuously skyward. Smooth-surfaced river rock gravel shielded its bed pansies and petunias. The sculpture garden sat silent, motionless, and sane beneath powerful overhead lights. Espying empty beer can, bent pick , his fingers halting less than inch from the crumpled metal.

Nothing coiled forth from the shiny, garishly decorated aluminum cylinder fumble for his fingertips. Tentatively, plucked from the ground. lay his hand; inanimate, immobile, unmoving, wholly synthetic. Artificial. His car was a complex aggregate manufactured materials. The sidewalk which stood was made concrete, another composite material. The beer can was refined aluminum covered with paint. These manufactured articles put forth tentacles, writhed filaments beneath his eyes. Those had emerged from the unhomogenized rock the gravel bed, from individual blades growing grass, and from facilely carved but otherwise naked granite. possibly just from his potion-addled brain. needed desperately find out. Drawing back his arm, threw the can. ricocheted off the sculpture with a muted but clearly audible clang. The sculpture did not react the impact. Nothing creepy crawly thrust protest from its smooth surfaces. Where the can landed the grass, die grass did not react Someone else did, however. “Hey! What d’you think you’re doing the midst his rounds, the security guard accelerated his pace. the man approached, Cody made effort straighten himself and regain a little composure. was aware that was still young enough pass for a graduate student The guard gestured meaningfully the direction the sculpture before looking back Cody. “That’s university property, friend Small, intense eyes narrowed accusingly. “Lemme see your Cody surprised himself finding his wallet the first try. The guard didn’t notice the slight trembling the fingers that flipped open. “Coschocton Westcott, Department Archeology Realizing was not dealing with a mischievous destructive student the guard metamorphosed from accusatory concerned. “Are you all right, Professor “I’m fine Cody did not sound himself, but the guard was satisfied. “I was trying for that trash can over there The other man’s gaze swerved. The receptacle question stood more than ten feet the right the granite monolith. “Not real close, were you The stocky guard was relaxed now, realizing was not dealing with some nocturnal vandal. “Better stick your digging, Professor Westcott Cody nodded thankfully. “I intend The guard was now positively jovial. “You can’t really hurt those things, anyway made a face. “They call ‘ art, but it’s all garbage that’s been given a high polish. Steel and stone. Even though they’re supposed keep off, I’ve seen students crawling all over ‘. Never seen one damaged yet, though after beat U A last year some kids did get drunk enough tip a couple ‘ over. The art department wasn’t pleased “ mumbled the archaeologist, “I imagine they weren’t. I’m afraid I don’t remember the incident. I was out the country the time The guard turned wistful remembered. “Two touchdowns the last ten minutes. What a game aware that had lingered too long and that had checkpoints pass, the guard was already moving away. “Next time hold off until you pass a trash container and drop your garbage sauntered down the sidewalk and prepared turn the corner that led back into the silent depths the campus, ducked just enough pass beneath the nearest branch a lightly leaved palo verde tree. Something dwelling within the tree reached for him. had a face, maybe, with little tooth-lined slits that passed for multiple mouths, and unidentifiable unwholesome protuberances that resembled rotten fungi, and a single vertically pupiled, brilliantly

glowing golden eye. “Look out Cody took a step the guard’s direction. Startled, the older man whirled, bringing his heavy flashlight defensively. His eyes darted from side side. The monstrosity that was living within the tree withdrew silence. Part the guard’s arm passed within millimeters the branch from which the horrific vision had emerged—but never made contact. “What, what The sentry turned a quick circle, searching the darkness. “You didn’t see “See ? See what All friendliness fled, the older man was eyeing Cody suspiciously again. “Say, Professor—how many those beers did you say you’ve had tonight “None. I mean, just one. Only the one Denying ownership the can had thrown would only confuse the guard further, Cody felt. Better acknowledge the consumption one beer hadn’t imbibed and get out there before found himself hauled off the campus police station suspicion being drunk and disorderly. Would safe from his nightmares jail? found himself wondering wildly. What did have look forward lockup? Steel bars, concrete floors and walls, manufactured bedding, ceramic John: Based the hypothesis slowly forming his mind, should a safe place. But then, should his car. Hands shaking, aware that the guard was still watching him, was relieved that did not have struggle with the simple business inserting key into lock. The car’s remote entry system allowed him press a button access the door. Slipping behind the wheel, managed get the engine started. Forcing a smile, waved the guard, who was still staring his direction. Thank God, thought pulled out, the campus was virtually deserted this hour. The only traffic jam had deal with was his head, where thoughts were slamming into each other one after another. Turning left, then left again, headed for the University Avenue exit, keeping his speed down lest draw unwanted attention from someone else patrol. gripped the wheel tightly that his fingers began whiten, but least kept them from trembling. had finally succeeded calming himself a little when the explosion shattered his carefully nurtured complacency. Swerving madly, the car jumped the curb and came a halt with its front right wheel high a sidewalk. Only the fact that had been traveling less than ten miles hour prevented more serious consequences. took him three tries get the door open. the time stumbled out and stood there, leaning back against the roof the sedan, the central portion the third floor the building opposite was fully engulfed flames. Those few students and late-working instructors who happened the area were already congregating noisily the street, their upturned faces strobed the yellow-red glow the fire. Responding with admirable speed, the aural burr a distant siren was screaming its way toward the site. Shielding his eyes against the intense glow and heat, Cody gaped the localized conflagration. Despite the rising temperature, a sudden and intense shiver shot right through him, icing him from head feet. Preoccupied and slightly dazed, had taken him a minute identify the structure, especially since was not used seeing from this side. was the chemistry building. Kelli would quietly frantic now, furious, both, but wouldn’t worry about that, couldn’t spare the couple minutes would take find a phone and call tell her was all right. Stunned, stood among students and colleagues and watched while the campus fire unit, soon reinforced efficient and betterequipped squadron from the city Tempe, fought bring the ferocious blaze under control. Operating

with admirable efficiency, they quickly contained the flames, isolating them the third floor and saving the rest the building. Helicopters thrummed overhead news teams from one after another the metro area’s major stations arrived, each maneuvering for the most spectacular nighttime shots. least his wife happened watching the late-evening news, Cody reflected, the live pictures from the campus would allow her infer a reason for his late-night absence. The flames thoroughly devoured several the third-floor labs and their contents. one was hurt battling the conflagration, but come the following morning university authorities would forced make the sad announcement that Harry Keeler, senior professor organic chemistry, had been working late and had perished the blaze. would remembered fondly his friends and colleagues, who would extend their sympathy his stunned and devastated family. A less bewildered assistant professor archaeology turned north Hayden, keeping well below the speed limit while resolutely hugging the slow lane. Hayden was a busy north-south route and despite the lateness the hour, heavily traveled. Ignoring the occasional irritated horn that loudly chided him for his snail-like pace, crept homeward. Harry was dead. knew surely knew had seen vaporous, intangible horrors emerge from rock and grass, gravel and tree the campus thought knew well. Unable reach Cody, they had killed his partner experimentation. caused him kill himself. Cody didn’t know the details what had happened room 3447 the third floor the chemistry building and was sure never would. Nor would anyone else. Certainly not the fire police department’s forensics experts. How could they identify killers who were not even remotely human, when only , Cody Westcott, could see them? could see them, and they knew could see them, and they didn’t like . They didn’t like one bit. How had they traced Harry’s participation, made the link the luckless chemist? had the potion, Cody knew. They’d smelled the residue his lab, sensed , some other unimaginable way managed trace from its imbiber back its maker. Then they had dealt with the poor, unwary professor. They would deal with him, too, Cody was certain gazed unblinkingly over the wheel, tracking the progress his car lights through the night. Harry had touched, had made contact with, something containing one them. Something natural and not manufactured. The thing living within had initiated the proceedings that had led the chemist’s death. Cody didn’t care about the potion. did care about how long would last. wore off and could longer see the creatures, would they able sense that and leave him alone? And they did, how could ever resume a normal life? How could wade a river and feel the rocks beneath his toes, climb a tree, play touch football a clean, seemingly innocuous lawn? How could explain any what had happened the empirically minded, -nonsense, obstinate woman who was his wife? Fuliginous tentacles and tendrils extruding menacingly from inanimate objects were the stuff cheap fiction, not science. the night guard hadn’t seen the indistinct, inimical shapes reaching out for him from the tree even though they’d been fluttering eagerly mere inches from his face, how could Cody point them out his wife and fellow scientists? Point them out? Hell, didn’t have a clue what they were! partaking the ancient potion was what had enabled him see them, then perhaps the bas-reliefs located within the underground Chachapoyan temple might speak their identity. Back his office had photographs every carving, every pictograph found within those remarkable curving walls that had been shut away from the sight man for hundreds years. Like virtually everything else about the Chachapoyan culture, their meaning remained poorly understood. Well, now had a new perspective from which examine them. But not tonight, , not tonight. Dizzy and debilitated, all wanted now was make home safely, fall into Kelli’s arms, stand for half hour

beneath a hot, cleansing shower, and sleep. would deal with all this tomorrow, the bright light a desert morning. Among those who were now conscious his new perception, however, the alarm had been raised. From the unsettled center the uncommon disturbance, the awareness spread rapidly. Cody’s fervent desire left alone was not indulged. The desert landscaping that fronted the junior high school was passing boasted mature palo verde and ocotillo interspersed with barrel cacti and juvenile saguaros. Not every one these trees and plants had been parasitized the unknown, ominous creatures Cody could now see clearly, but enough them were cause him jerk sharply the wheel and send the car screeching away from the greenbelt bordering the school and over into the fast lane. Fortunately, traffic had now thinned out, and crashed his vehicle only into empty air. The serpentine, misshapen, frightful shapes saw coiling within tree and succulent unnerved him afresh. The effects the potion had ingested were potent ever. When a particularly long branch struck and scraped the roof his car, screamed out loud spite himself. The car forged onward. felt nothing. The branch had only made contact with the metal roof and not with him. Was intimate physical contact always required? wondered furiously. the sculpture garden had aroused nothing until had touched something; the sculpture, the gravel, the grass. What happened when that kind contact was made and sustained instead being quickly terminated? What did the questing, probing tendrils a person? Was something that could studied, evaluated, and measured, would conjecture have suffice? A partial answer sorts presented itself him turned down the side street that led his home. either side the road, neat one- and two-story homes painted stuccoed desert hues slumbered the darkness, oblivious the abundance horrid indistinct life that lingered all around. Trees and rocks and bushes, not every one but many, sprouted ghastly shapes that were visible only the sole occupant innocuous Ford driving slowly and cautiously down the exact center the street. From several houses the muted babble families watching television engaging late-night household tasks filtered out onto the street, their occupants oblivious the rest mankind the supernal terror that stalked their neighborhood, their world. Crawling eastward, Cody encountered only one other human. The man was walking his dog, a nondescript but well-groomed terrier. a nervous, uneasy Cody passed, the dog tugged sharply its leash. Without thinking, its owner allowed the animal lead. While the dog did its business the base a mesquite tree, its idling owner reached out with a hand. “Don’t Cody screamed, forgetting that his windows were rolled all the way and the car’s heater was automatically warming the interior. The dog’s owner never heard him. the man casually fingered the leaves the mesquite, a miasmic glob pale mist emerged. had eyespots devoid pupils and two long, slender hooks like insubstantial hypodermics. These penetrated the back the man’s hand—and began suck. A shocked Cody could see them swelling with—with what? all outward appearances the man felt nothing. The flesh his hand, the color his skin—nothing changed. Nothing all. Except his demeanor. His face contorting, suddenly glared down the terrier and kicked . Hard. The startled dog yelped and a light came the driveway the nearest house. His expression still deformed, growled obscenities spilling from his lips, the man lengthened his stride, dragging the poor animal after him and half choking the process. Cody followed their progress his sideview mirror. Something significant had just occurred. His brain overloaded with more conundrums and inexplicable information than any one person should have deal with the course a single night, was still mulling

over what he’d just witnessed pulled into the driveway his own home and automatically activated the remote garage-door opener. Kelli was awake and waiting for him the den. The domestic fury she’d been keeping bottled ever since nine o’clock had come and gone, vanished the instant she caught sight the expression her husband’s face. Tossing the heavy scientific tome she’d been reading onto the couch, she rose and rushed his side. “Jeezus, Cody! What happened you allowed himself led into the comfortable, welcoming room. was filled with pots and paintings, framed photographs their travels and Indian artifacts: memorabilia their time spent the southern half the hemisphere. The feel, the touch, the warmth against him the person loved more than anything else the world calmed him more than any sedative potion might have taken. Potion. Angrily, fought think anything but potions. struck him that was sitting down. had not remembered dropping onto the couch, had been too preoccupied wonder Kelli’s momentary absence. But she was back now, with a glass iced tea, sitting the cushion next his while gazing him speculatively and with open concern. “What’s wrong, Cody? What happened tonight Raising the glass, examined carefully would have a newly unearthed Moche earring. Tea, after all, was a natural substance, and every instance, the frightful apparitions had encountered had oozed forth from natural sites. But the processed, golden-hued liquid the glass did not thrust out tiny tea-colored tentacles clutch his face. The clinking cubes ice likewise seemed benign. The glass itself, being artificial composite, did not worry him. drank gratefully, feeling the cold fluid slide easily down his throat. itself, unaccompanied unwanted travelers. Kelli had not stopped staring him. “Something wrong with the tea “ slumped against the padded back the couch. “The tea’s fine Was the couch safe? wondered with a start. had a wood frame, and cotton cushions. increasingly anxious Kelli watched him, Cody looked anxiously left and right. Nothing vomited upward from the solid piece furniture. Maybe the process manufacture and blending and combining with other materials and products reduced the purity the nebulous horrors had been seeing. Not every tree and rock provided a home for the abnormalities. Still ignorant what was dealing with, found himself compelled examine and discard one mad hypothesis after another. Perhaps the effects the potion had worn off. wasn’t sure which was worse: able see and detect the subtle frights whose unsuspected existence the foul-smelling liquid had revealed him, obliged forever after wander the world cognizant their existence, but unable see them. environment awash shadowy horrors, was better dwell blindness? Having been, even momentarily, granted the gift seeing what was invisible everyone else, could survive and maintain his sanity once forced relinquish ? All the notes the potion—its ingredients, their proportions, and the exact method preparation—had been Professor Keeler’s lab. But the Chachapoyan panel that revealed the recipe was still intact, were numerous photos the relevant reliefs and carvings. would take time assemble the necessary constituents anew, well find another chemist prepare and combine them—but could done. Did want ? Was the wise course? Looking Kelli, seeing the concern writ large her face, wondered how she would react the revelation. Would she even believe him, without demonstrable proof his claims? told her exactly what had happened, she would want proof. She was much a scientist , and knew her well

enough certain that this instance, love would not sufficient obviate the need for proof. “Harry’s dead Her eyes widened slightly. “Professor Keeler? The one you’ve been working with these past weeks nodded. “How…?” “There was a fire. His lab blew . That’s why I’m late. The building was burning I was leaving the campus, and I stopped —watch “There was nothing you could was much a statement question. “The fire department got there fast they could. With all those chemicals, the blaze was very intense. You could feel the heat across the street “Damn she leaned back against the opposite arm the couch, found himself staring intently the rolled and padded armrest. Had seen a flicker movement there? What synapses ruled the fine line between reality and imagination, between observation and hallucination? would have careful not see what was not there. What was there, was horrifying enough. “ was a good guy Kelli added. “Yeah, was, and a first-rate chemist, too Rising, she leaned forward kiss him gently. Folding her arms around his shoulders, she gave him a loving, tender hug before straightening. “It’s too late cook She smiled. “You know I have slow with anything that involves activating the stove. But I could make a lasagna for you “You’re not going eat anything rose, darting a glance behind her. The house was silent, unmoving, a bulwark familiarity against a suddenly hostile outside world. “When you didn’t show the expected time I had a couple tuna sandwiches Rising and pirouetting coquettishly, she pranced off the direction the kitchen. “I love you, honey, but I ain’t gonna starve for you “Wouldn’t want you Holding his iced tea, followed her into the other room. The attached dinette area was mostly wood, laminated and varnished. Did such treatment render natural materials like lumber uninhabitable the organisms had seen? the potion’s effects had worn off, how would know? While she busied herself with the freezer, slid reluctantly onto a bench. was cool and unmoving beneath him. Outside, desert landscaping surrounded the small plunge pool, both chilled the winter night. A reassuring electronic hum filled the kitchen—microwave Muzak. Seventeen minutes and thirty-three seconds passed. The instructions frozen-food packaging were designed serve benchmarks only, customized consumers. Pulling a plate from a cabinet and a fork from a drawer, Kelli moved join him dug the plastic container. took another sip from his nearly empty glass. And dropped sprang from behind the table. Sweet tea and melting ice slid oil-like across the tabletop. The heavy glass bounced and rolled the tile floor but did not break. charged his startled mate, one hand swept a long steel spatula from a wall rack. She screamed softly swung her direction—not her, but the bonsai she had been about caress. Because, trailing upward and out from the branches the shrunken tree like the tendrils a jellyfish were a handful silvery filaments lined with barbed hooks, waiting sink into the naked flesh her hand. The spatula struck the bonsai and sent skidding sideways across the countertop, where slammed against the toaster, strewing dirt and decorative pebbles its wake. Nothing emerged from this detritus, but filmy, questing fronds continued wave energetic frustration from the bole the bonsai. Staring , breathing hard and clutching the spatula like a broadsword, Cody found himself wondering what next.

From the bonsai came a faint, disappointed keening. Interesting, thought wildly. could hear well see them. Mouth agape, Kelli Westcott was leaning back against the butcher-block island that dominated the center the kitchen, both hands gripping the uninhabited ( near could tell) laminated wood. “Are you crazy? What’s the matter with you “You don’t see ? You don’t hear Slowly she followed his gaze the upended bonsai before looking back him uncertainly. “Don’t see what? Don’t hear what Ignoring her, made a rapid search the kitchen drawers until found what was looking for: a pair oven mitts that were not made from cotton. Slipping the oversized gloves, approached the decorative houseplant with determined caution. The barbed tentacles writhed impotently picked the bonsai and carried purposefully toward the back door. The pot that was the plant’s home was a composite fauxstone material and ought safe touch, but wasn’t taking any chances. A bewildered Kelli followed. “What are you doing “Fumigating snapped her without turning around. There were three trash cans out back, all gray plastic. had never been especially fond plastic before, but the past few hours found him developing a new fondness for any synthetic material. Removing a lid, dumped the bonsai the half-filled can before replacing the cover. Silvery tentacles twisted helplessly they tumbled among the rest the garbage. Replacing the cover, strode back the house, his significant other trailing behind. “Have you lost your mind, Cody Westcott? That was one favorite house-plants “It’s bad for you pushed the door wide she could follow easily. “Allergies Her expression twisted. “Allergies? What the hell are you talking about, allergies She gestured behind her they reentered the den. “We’ve had that bonsai almost a year. I’ve watered and fed without suffering much a sneeze Dropping back onto the couch, buried his head his hands. “How about headaches prompted her. “ cramps, dizziness. Any symptoms all This time she chose sit a chair opposite, with the glass-topped coffee table between them. “You’ve had a rough night she responded slowly. “You’ve lost a friend and colleague and you’re upset. You need throw out a perfectly innocent little plant make yourself feel more secure, okay. But stops with that. The next unprovoked attack you make décor, I’m calling a therapist Dropping his hands, dug his fingers into his palm. “There was something the bonsai, Kelli. Something dangerous Her attitude changed immediately, though she was still wary. “What—a bug? A scorpion Since moving into the house they had killed several scorpions the bathroom. The enterprising arachnids came through the tub and shower drains. “, not a scorpion. had—tendrils, tentacles. was going for you. I—I had stop “Well, you sure stopped , all right She glanced briefly the direction the back porch and the distant garbage cans. “Attack the Killer Bonsai. I love you truly, Cody, but you’re going have better than that

Slowly, patiently, explained detail the nature the research had been conducting concert with the chemist Harry Keeler. Told taking the potion and what had seen earlier that night while walking from the chemistry building back his car. Related the encounter with the patrolling security guard. Finished with the explosion and fire that had destroyed Harry Keeler’s office and lab—and Harry Keeler. Kelli Alwydd Westcott was nothing not systematic. She listened, waiting until her husband was finished. Her initial reaction was categorize everything had told her the biggest piece fanciful crap had ever been her misfortune hear and reinforce her previous belief that needed therapy. Understandable might , such a response did not constitute good science. Given the intensity with which had propounded his inanity, she would grant him the opportunity provide substantiation. Then she would tell him was full crap, and suggest seek professional help. the manner one discussing a particularly controversial passage destined for inclusion a soon-published scientific paper, she responded calmly and rationally. “I didn’t see anything the bonsai but dirt, pebbles, and fallen needles. You saw barbed tendrils nodded. “ the best admittedly limited botanical knowledge, bonsai trees don’t put forth barbed tendrils, tendrils any kind. you’re saying that there was something else that pot “Not the pot corrected her. “Living the tree itself She nodded slowly. “Something with barbed tendrils. And what might that have been “I don’t know confessed helplessly. “I only know what I saw “And what you saw earlier tonight, the sculpture garden: They were different “That’s right found himself wishing that smoked. “These things must have different species. They only seem inhabit natural objects. Trees and rocks. The sculpture was worked stone, but the original granite was still mostly intact. Turning a tree into lumber might reduce the habitability factor anything residing the original growth. I’m not sure about that yet. Remember, I haven’t had time study these things, and I’ve only been aware them since I drank that potion “Which leads next, inevitable question She didn’t even have ask . “I’m not suffering from hallucinations replied tersely. “I know what I saw “Everyone who sees things knows what they saw she countered. “What these things you make contact with them “I don’t know that either, but can’t good thought the man and his dog: one minute strolling and relaxed, the next violent and ranting. She smiled thinly. “ what hard evidence you base that conclusion, love “ the way they look, the manner which they try snag people. The gestures, the movements—they aren’t benign. And I think, somehow, they started that fire and killed Harry “Now you’re really starting worry . Wouldn’t you call that reaction a little paranoid, Cody She said gently, minimize his reaction. “Couldn’t this fanciful story you’re weaving a means trying rationalize his unexpected and tragic death “ could admitted, “except that I started seeing these creatures before the fire. What’s worse, I think they know now that I can see them His eyes scanned the walls, the floor, the innocent-seeming furniture. “They’re aware “And obviously, these will-othe-wisps that live trees and rocks and God knows what else murdered Harry Keeler silence him, and destroy his records the formula

“Makes sense ignored her sarcastic tone. “Only you, I think Laughing, she rose and settled herself forcefully his lap. “Okay, Cody. It’s a great story, very imaginative. But for anything more than that I’m afraid I’m going have ask see a little teensy-weensy itsy-bit proof Inclining her head peer into his downcast face, she smiled encouragingly. “That’s not too much ask, ? You know how goes: Extraordinary claims demand extraordinary proof “Yeah, yeah Despite the seriousness the situation, with her squirming around his lap found hard concentrate. “How can I provide proof something only I can see? I’d let you try the potion yourself, except that everything went flames Harry’s lab. can recreated, but I need find another chemist adept Harry, and willing “I’m sure you will, Cody She kissed him the forehead. “Maybe tomorrow morning everything will look different and you won’t have . You’ve had a difficult evening, and I’m really sorry hear about your friend. That’s one advantage that archaeology a field study has over chemistry. Our subject matter tends not blow Rising, she headed for the bedroom. “It’s late, and I’ve got teach a twohundred-level class tomorrow. Adobe construction techniques exemplified Lambayeque transitional period architecture She made a face. “I get talk about mud-brick pyramids mud-faced sophomores and juniors. And I believe you have assignment two yourself, Professor Westcott “I’m not a full professor yet Suddenly very tired, rose from the couch. “You are Blowing him a kiss, she disappeared into the bathroom. While listened the water run the shower, sat the edge the bed and weighed everything she had said. Could she right? Was hallucinating all? Drinking ancient shamanistic potion could expected provoke such a response. Viewing and interpreting hallucinogen-inspired visions was important part every South American shamanistic tradition. Dendrobates toxin was powerful stuff, even tiny quantities. Startled, realized that was sitting a bed with a wooden frame. But was fine, nothing had happened, nothing had materialized from beneath the sheets and blankets assault him. was almost convinced that reducing a tree lumber expunged whatever might abiding within when saw the long, hooked tongue emerge from the wall behind the bed. was the only wall the bedroom that boasted natural, unpainted paneling. stared the wormlike protrusion for several minutes before withdrew back into the wall. While visible, had mewled softly. Nothing made wood could trusted, then. Not a chair, not a desk, not even a pencil. Not until had been inspected and pronounced clean. him, since was the only one who could see that which dwelt within. Emerging from the shower, Kelli felt relaxed and a better mood. Cody strove mightily his usual cheerful, contented self until and after they retired. Apparently was successful, because among other things, Kelli did not notice that he’d dragged the bed a full inch away from the paneled wall, that headboard and paneling did not make contact.

Five all outward appearances Cody was his normal self again the next morning. did not bring the events the night before, and Kelli, clearly relieved, chose not either. Perhaps she thought would forget all about the inanity inimical forces that resided innocuous bonsai trees. Perhaps she thought had done

already, now that some the shock his colleague’s unexpected passing had faded a little. any event, she spoke only ordinary, everyday inconsequentialities they joined the flow traffic that led toward the university. She was delighted that longer would working late, though out consideration for the deceased chemist she concealed that much her feelings. Not unexpectedly, the campus paper headlined the incident. Watching her husband surreptitiously for any hint retrogression perused the article over coffee and Danish the faculty caféteria, she was gratified see that hardly reacted all. They parted with smiles. Cody watched her . Smiling was, but also worried death. , and only , knew that unimaginable horrors lurked throughout the campus well the world outside. brought the subject again without having incontrovertible proof what had seen, she would surely follow through her threat demand professional therapy for him. Her good and loving intentions would only cause him more distress. had find another chemist work with, preferably off-campus. The potion had remade that she could sample for herself. was the only way knew incontestably prove her the truth his assertions. meant that could not yell her take care. Insist that she avoid touching any tree, bush, flower, that she keep the concrete walkways and avoid the grass, that she not make contact with wood stone, and she might tempted, out love course, send more than verbal therapy winging his way. Sedated, would not able pursue his studies. Worse, would make him easy target for the same forces that had destroyed Harry Keeler. headed for his first class, careful avoid touching anything growing, taking extra couple minutes could avoid the decorative flagstone walkway that led the building’s main entrance. Concrete was safe, evidently too extensively blended amalgam ingredients provide a comfortable home for the repulsive beings had seen. was a bright, beautiful winter morning, comfortably cool while most the rest the country was freezing. would have relished , luxuriated , acknowledging the smiles and waves students and faculty knew, not for one thing. could still see that which could not put a name . They were not everywhere, but neither were they uncommon. proceeded toward his teaching assignment like a scout making his way through enemy territory, observed the creatures closely dared, studying and learning. There was nothing else could . And while beheld them, was acutely conscious the fact that they, turn, were watching him. With malice mind. Well, let them glower, whatever they were. had yet encounter one that was capable leaving its lair, and would careful not give the least them any opportunity slip a hook, sucker, tentacle, probe into his flesh. Others, strolling blind and innocent a clear, cool desert morning, were not fortunate. was agony able witness their activities and not anything about them. Were they immortal, with their twisting, curling little malevolent probes? after penetrating and entering a human host, did they perish when the human died? they were not everlasting, then unless they were a recently arrived phenomena, that meant they had reproduce and multiply somehow. Unless they were incredibly long-lived, the latter must the case, because their history stretched back least far the Chachapoyan culture. What must have been the reaction, wondered, the Chachapoyan shaman who had first concocted and then partaken the potion that enabled a human see otherwise invisible, undetectable monstrosities? must have been astonishing individual indeed not have gone mad the spot. perhaps was not very remarkable. Ancient peoples were closer the inexplicable, the spirit world, phenomena that contemporary man dismissed imaginary when was unable reduce the coldness a mathematical formula what had experienced but could not explain. Cody wished could have known that long-dead, perceptive, and incalculably brave avatar.

Now the knowledge had been passed down him, and a large part him wished circumstances had decreed otherwise. Would the effects the potion ever wear off, had ingesting permanently altered his perception? Certainly his new vision was, anything, sharper than ever today. Drifting restlessly toward his first lecture, watched tendrils and tentacles, appendages and creepers sprout from landscaping boulders and barrel cacti, from small shade trees and the granite-faced walls the physics building. Tenacious pebbles put forth tiny feelers while dozens identical small stones remained unpolluted inimical protrusions. The same was true growing things. A cluster dangerous-looking prickly-pear thrust only flat green, thorn-laden pads sunward, while a shaded rose bush lush with pink blossoms was lined with small, snapping gray mouths like fanged oysters. Even the little stream that ran through the campus pushed questing, intangible stingers upward, ethereal snags that weaved lazily back and forth the current a raging incorporeal river. Much might want , only for sanity’s sake, could not keep from making observations and drawing conclusions. His scientific training would not let him otherwise, would not let him conveniently ignore the inimical phenomena all around him. The preliminary theory that had been percolating his brain ever since he’d perceived the first the apparitions drew supporting evidence from each new, unsettling encounter. The creatures abided only natural objects. That much was clear. Decorative rocks regardless size, composition, shape; plants ranging from small old-woman cacti bordering oleander tall shade trees; the stream that ran into the nearby Salt River, and any insignificantly altered derivatives thereof seemed provide suitable shelter for them. Not one synthetic rigorously blended material put forth questing, probing feelers. Anything made refined metal plastic was notably sterile. A wooden beam panel might harbor its clandestine anomaly, but a pile sawdust would not. still wasn’t comfortable with wallboard pressboard, even plywood with its multiple laminated layers. Could the creatures travel from one habitation another? far had seen evidence that. felt a little better. they were restricted their own exclusive stone tree watercourse, suggested that uncorrupted objects such furniture that did not already harbor something malicious within their wooden superstructure would safe sit lie upon. walked, passed a sea translucent, worm-like creepers writhing and convulsing from beneath a lawn the strengthening light morning. Having always thought that nightmares properly belonged the night, was stomach-churning see them active and alert day. None the sightless, insouciant students, workers, teachers encountered reacted when they passed within reach and through the ocean unfriendly probes. But actual, physical contact was made … A girl about twenty sat down a flat-topped whitish boulder the shade the library annex. When saw what was about happen, Cody prepared give a warning shout. What would have shouted, what words could possibly have employed, remained a matter for personal conjecture, since was too late. What looked like a pair greenish, disembodied, broken-jointed hands emerged from either side the boulder, grasped the girl around the waist, and vanished into her flanks. Simultaneously aghast and fascinated, Cody stopped observe. For several moments following the incursion, nothing happened. The student set her books down next the rock, opened a large, hand-embroidered bag that hailed from somewhere Central America, and pulled out a text. Opening her lap, she began read. Aware that had halted and was now blocking the intermittent flow student traffic, Cody moved off one side—careful remain the concrete sidewalk and avoid the nearby lawn. Several minutes more passed. Abruptly, the expression the girl’s face warped. Putting one hand her belly, she just managed turn away from where she had set down her purse before she threw a

succession violent heaves. Several other students rushed see they could help. Was that the end ? Cody wondered. What would happen now? Would she continue throw all day, all week? her friends steadied her next the rock, something crawled out her left thigh. None them saw , none reacted its emergence. Only Coshocton Westcott was cursed. Looking like a wad discarded, colorless jelly, the lump lay quivering the ground. One anxious, oblivious student stepped directly and through . The imperceptible obscenity continued lie where had burst forth into the world. And then came apart, splitting into half a dozen smaller redactions itself. Humping off different directions, one one they vanished into, and presumably took residence within, equal number untenanted rocks. The concerned students continued attend the sick girl, who was recovering rapidly. Despite the intensifying heat the sun, Cody felt a deep chill. The answer one the innumerable questions that had begun torment him had just been answered: The creatures were indeed capable , and probably reliant upon, a form reproduction. But what did they get from their human hosts? The girl was smiling now, albeit wanly. She had not lost weight and was suffering further visible ill effects. All the discomfort, however fleeting, had been internal. Even Cody had enjoyed access the training and equipment necessary begin testing her, any other victim the unnamed organisms, would hardly have known where begin. resumed walking toward the General Sciences building and the lecture hall would using for his first class. Rather than being isolated incident, the encounter with the girl was only one many observed that day. A young couple, married graduate students from the look them, were leaning against a rock wall when a dozen more thin, glistening ropes emerged from the bare stone. One one they slithered into various parts both unsuspecting, unreacting young bodies, entering via ear and arm, buttock ankle. soon the last them had taken residence within the host pair, the man and woman fell arguing. Softly first, then with vehemence. Soon both were gesticulating angrily. The woman slapped her partner, hard, catching him square across the face. Responding, reached out and grabbed her the shoulders and began shake her violently. Noticing that others were now turning the direction the altercation, they stepped back from one another and strode off, still arguing furiously, spewing insults and imprecations they were likely regret later—when would too late take them back. From their shoulders and ribs, thighs and feet, intangible tentacles coiled outward. They were swelling, even a horrified, stunned Cody watched, engorging themselves with whatever was they were taking from their combative, belligerent, abstracted hosts. The louder and more public the argument became, the greater the bloat the invisible parasites. What were they feeding ? Cody brooded. Not blood, not flesh. That much was apparent. What then? Some sort invisible fluid that humans were entirely unaware ? Violent psychic emanations? A soupçon the electrical impulses that raced through specific portions the brain when was adversely stimulated? What was the connection between the unfortunate girl who had suddenly and violently heaved her guts and this abruptly bellicose couple? Were chosen, unwary hosts only temporarily impaired did some kind imperceptible permanent damage result? had any hope descrying the answers such questions, addition a chemist would now need the help a physiologist, a couple doctors, and maybe a psychic two. For the moment, though, every gathering mystery devolved solely upon him. was the one, the only one among thousands, perhaps millions, who could See. Sitting a lawn, indifferent the tiny malicious cilia that were probing his backside and legs, a gardener break was eating apple. Suddenly threw down the half-eaten fruit and climbed his feet. Hands jammed pockets, stomped off toward the main maintenance area, his expression drawn, his lips

working spoke only himself. Like glistening grains rice, a handful lawn cilia had penetrated his clothing. What would their effect their new host? Cody mused. A snappish attitude toward friends and -workers, a long-term headache, worse? How deeply could the rarefied organisms affect people? Could they induce road rage susceptible drivers? What about inspiring someone commit robbery, persist child-beating, attempt suicide? Was there a particular variety the parasitoids potent enough persuade one human murder another? conversely, offer a victim? a host died, did the parasite within derive pleasure, some perverse kind nourishment from the experience? could see, but was observing the organisms from a state near-total ignorance, and the subjects his scrutiny did not lend themselves detailed examination under controlled laboratory conditions. From the standpoint a would- researcher into the vicious, malevolent phenomena, was virtually helpless. could not manipulate his surroundings for purposes study, could perhaps affect events? That, least, was something could test. was determined , even exposed him additional danger. Standing idly , watching quietly and doing nothing while knowing was the only sighted individual the country the blind, was driving him crazy. could not dissect, could not measure, could not record, then maybe could least interfere. The opportunity presented itself following his last afternoon class, was his way the library check out a tome needed for the paper was ostensibly preparing submit Archaeology News and Reviews. did not have meet Kelli for the drive home for another couple hours yet. She still had undergraduate class and a follow- seminar teach. The man with the van was unloading cases canned soda, undoubtedly stock one the ubiquitous, coinoperated vending machines that populated the campus. Wheeling his hand truck like a skilled dancer leading his partner, paused a moment outside a building wipe sweat from his brow. Standing behind the hand truck, handkerchief hand, noticed the bed blooming pansies nestled against the walkway, and bent examine them. Maybe was drawn their fragrance, maybe just liked flowers. could not see and had way knowing that something brooding deep within the colorful blossoms was about take a malicious liking him. Divining what was about happen, Cody changed course and rushed toward the delivery man, shouting ran. Fingertips pausing a few inches from the pansies, the campus visitor looked and straightened. Beneath his hands, a pellucid set multiple jaws strained impotently. “Something I can for you The almost-victim’s tone was curious, but not agitated. Breathing hard, Cody slowed a halt, careful keep his feet away from the flower bed. “Ummm-, nothing. I thought you were someone else. Sorry indicated the building. “Delivering’s easier this time year, isn’t “Yeah, summer’s a bitch Flowers forgotten, the visitor gripped the handles the hand truck, pressed them down a comfortable angle for walking, then pushed the access ramp and into the building. Had saved the man a headache? Cody wondered. perhaps prevented a fatal auto accident later the day? How much common human misery could attributed the chancre invisible, malignant, ever hungry, invisible monstrosities that only could see? The responsibility for thwarting them, for interfering with their infectious activities, was overwhelming. was far too much for one individual, especially one ignorant Cody felt himself . And one would believe him, would understand what was doing why. one, except perhaps, one day soon, his wife. was fortunate, and could somehow come with proof what was seeing.

would take time, knew. Kelli was not the kind person easily persuaded the unthinkable. But would convince her, somehow. would have . Otherwise, witness his eccentric behavior, she might from the best intentions have him locked . could not allow that happen. Not when was the only one who could See. Not when was the only one who could help. felt good have saved the nameless delivery man from infection. With luck, before the day was done would able perform the same good deed for a few others. None would ever know that their lives had been affected. None would realize that a stranger had saved them from physical mental distress, worse. But would know. would know, and that would satisfaction enough. The creatures would know, too, realized. Could they anything about ? had yet encounter any evidence that they could affect influence a human without benefit direct physical contact. would very careful where stepped and what touched, and gauge his life according his new knowledge. would continue study them, and learn about them, and with luck, would find a way frustrate them ever-increasing scale. The weight his new obligation was one accepted without real enthusiasm, and then only because morally felt had choice. The remainder the afternoon was spent effecting minor salvations. was convinced personally prevented least two auto accidents; one minor, the other with the potential result serious injury even death. both instances assortment spectacularly hideous alien apparitions visible and audible only his chemically altered perception fumed powerlessly him, threatening with tentacles and teeth, with razoredged suckers and wet, unclean fumy lips. found that could swing a hand through them with little effect, were swatting soap bubbles, long did not make contact with their assorted abodes. such moments disgusting protuberances beckoned him closer, inviting the contact prudently refused. Even a distance half inch, they were powerless affect him. Make contact with their stable habitats, however, and knew would instantly infected. Unlike Kelli, had classes scheduled that afternoon. Instead retiring his cramped, paper-filled office peruse student assignments work his professional papers, curiosity took him off-campus. Even though the fall semester was full cry, the main drag Mill Avenue was aswarm with students and wannabes. The used bookstores were busy, the multitude trendy coffee shops and juice bars and small restaurants frenetic, the theme stores alive with shoppers, browsers, and unobtrusive security staff. Many the larger stores, both new and old, were made brick, with concrete carpeted floors that lay flush against cement sidewalks. Visitors such establishments were safe from the depredations the creatures. One small bagel and coffee shop whose floor was laid with decorative slate was not secure. Blurred cilia and indistinct spikes thrust upward, probing for visiting victims. For the endemic monstrosities was a veritable feeding ground. Most the decorative trees that lined the street were uninhabited, but some put forth branches and shoots that were not part the tree itself. Everywhere across the country, Cody mused, one city after another was adding the same kind elaborate landscaping otherwise sterile downtown areas. found himself wondering how much that was due honest human desire surrounded greenery, and how much might have been influenced the creatures order provide themselves with places live the middle otherwise inhospitable artificial urban environment. A fresh-faced young girl, probably more than a sophomore, was preparing chain her bike a small sidewalk tree. From within its trunk, long, thin ropelike structures glimmering with slime emerged reach for her. Hurrying forward, Cody put a hand her shoulder just time prevent her from wrapping the chain around and making contact with the slender trunk. “Hey, watch Startled, she swung her own arm, casting off his grip. Invisible her but all too tangible

the archaeologist, anxious threads thrashed the still air. “Sorry Cody raised both palms toward her a pacifying gesture. “I’m Professor Westcott, from the archaeology department nodded the direction the steel grate that was bolted the sidewalk outside the nearest store. “You’re supposed use the bike racks “Yeah, okay Irritated, she swung the bike around and wheeled toward the rack. “You don’t have get touchy-feely about What had saved her from? wondered watched her padlock the security chain bike and rack. A bad menstrual period? Temporary mental breakdown? Riding her bike into the path oncoming bus? Taking a knife some baffled boyfriend? Turning back the tree, felt nothing furious streamers resentful, malignant plasm flailed his face. Unless touched the tree, they could nothing. A pair tiny, pupilless eyes popped out the trunk and slid along the length one pseudopod until they hung from the very end, gazing him. Feeling quite invulnerable, met the malevolent stare evenly. “You can’t touch , can you? You can’t a damn thing unless I make contact. For all your ability influence others, you can’t lay a single one your repulsive little tendrils . You can’t Something struck him the back, between his shoulders. lurched forward, the bundle ropelike structures emanating from the tree parted receive him. Only twisting violently and throwing himself the side did just barely succeed stumbling past the tree instead slamming into , and into that which dwelled within. Eyes wide, fear accelerating his heartbeat, regained his footing and turned, find himself gazing into the face equally frightened young man. wore thick-lensed glasses and shouldered a book-laden backpack. “, jeez, I’m sorry, mister! You okay “Yeah Regaining his composure, Cody ignored the straining, imperceptible appendages that were ineffectively stroking his shirt. “I wasn’t watching where I was going Smiling hesitantly, uncertain his apology was sufficient, the student hurried off the street and disappeared into the crowd. Cody stepped away from the possessed tree. had been standing there, too close really, contemplating the awfulness the would- parasite within the wood, and the preoccupied kid had walked into him. accident. —was ? wanted confront the young man, ask him some pointed questions, but was already lost sight, swallowed the milling throng Mill Avenue. Sure was accident. had . took his revenge for the near disaster traversing the busiest portion the street several times. fourthirty had lost track how many minor and major brutal incursions had prevented. More than expected, less than had feared. every instance the creatures railed furiously his interference. addition his immunity their influence, began feel a sense real accomplishment, that was doing something tangible help people. His intervention constituted a kind temporary inoculation against the effects the unnamed depravities. was acutely aware that the creatures were conscious his hindering, but the more often interposed himself between them and their intended victims without suffering any untoward consequences himself, the more secure his activities became. was clear that they could nothing, and was careful not allow anyone else close enough nudge bump him into a host tree rock. Cody Westcott had discovered the secret why bad things happen good people—and the ancient instigators those bad things were not all happy about . Was that same knowledge that had allowed the mysterious Chachapoyans maintain their little civilization against the depredations far more militant empires like the Chimu and the Moche? that

was the case, then how had they allowed themselves overcome the Incas? Chachapoyan ruins such Apachetarimac and Cuelap, Gran Vilaya and others showed signs military devastation. Instead overwhelming the Chachapoyans’ seemingly impregnable fortresses, had the Incas simply outsmarted them? Had they somehow made use the same secret knowledge Cody was now privy order conquer not only the Chachapoyans, but every other civilization that lay between Colombia and Tierra del Fuego? they had utilized the creatures, been utilized them, would explain a great deal. that was the case, ruminated wandered back toward the campus rendezvous with Kelli for the ride home, then how had they eventually been overcome Pizarro and his small party conquistadors? Perhaps the creatures had grown bored with their contented Indian hosts and their stable empire. they thrived the presence human grief, what more amenable their dark, esoteric condition than a nice, massacre-filled war with its aftermath slavery and oppression? his mind’s eye Cody saw the Spanish Inquisition pronouncing judgment generations poor Andean Indies well their own kind, serpentine tendrils and teeth and ichorous suckers fluttering from the foreheads parasitized judges and prosecutors. began feel that there was more, much more, stake his discovery than the realization that something inimical and invisible the mass mankind might responsible for migraine headaches, upset stomachs, and the occasional inexplicable auto accident. engrossed was this rapidly expanding exegesis that almost started across the decomposed granite landscaping that fronted the main administration building using the stepping stones arranged there. These were fashioned from natural flagstone, not a composite material, and they were waiting for him. the last instant moved his right leg sideways instead forward, bringing down the crushed rock. crunched harmlessly underfoot. A ten-inch wide, fanged mouth surmounted a single feral, catlike eye appeared the center the stepping stone where had nearly placed his foot. snapped impotently his ankles strode carefully past. Perhaps a fifth the stepping stones harbored similar sinister orifices. Too close, told himself. Cogitate all you want, but never, ever, lose sight the world around you lest you bump into object that home something hungry and unforgiving. Once the least the now alerted horrors got its hooks, whatever, into him, knew would never let . Gifted with a singular perception that was denied the rest humankind, had become a threat every previously ignored and discounted being dial fed off the raw, ragged emotions the planet’s dominant species. The reality that dominance, reflected made his way toward the central quad, was now something very much doubt. ever had been a reality. With a start, realized did not even have a name for what was fighting. Two weeks and a day later, had visitors.

Six The middle-aged 8 male tuho strolled into the Baja Naja outdoor restaurant just off Mill did not draw a second glance from the late-lunch crowd students, teachers, office workers, retirees, and tourists. way did his physique, posture, expression impact the bustling dynamic the outdoor congregation. one noticed that his stride was more confident than was typical his age and demeanor, that the slight upward curl his lips might indicate a general contempt for the more youthful, more attractive people gathered the popular hangout. took a table himself, the back, away from the street, and ordered quietly and without fuss, barely taking the time glance the menu. Cody didn’t even know existed until the man rose, picked his glass

ice water, and approached him. “Good morning, Professor Westcott The visitor glanced his watch. “ still morning, I suppose. I see that you are alone. Mind I join you Cody considered the stranger, struggling place the polite enigma who was blocking his view the street. “ I know you His smile was instinctive, automatic, and unfounded. “ sir, but you will Without waiting for Cody’s answer, the man slipped into the vacant chair the other side the round, glass-topped table. “You may call Uthu Not, “ name “, I’m…”, but “You may call Much bigger than his visitor, and younger, Cody felt immediate unease the midst the busy restaurant. The man did not act hostile. Like any large American university, ASU was visited its share nut cases, each claiming represent the righteous while indifferently trampling the rights others. far, saw reason think ill this quiet little fellow, other than that was a trifle forward. His immediate concern was finish the remainder the club sandwich his plate. “I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone named Uthu before “Distinctive people should have distinctive names The man smiled, his appearance anything but distinctive. was nothing not assured, Cody reflected. “You, for example, have a distinctive name “Westcott Cody’s response was muffled his mouthful sandwich. “You are being humorous. Coshocton, course. That Amerindian, not Cody chewed. “Commanche/Cherokee. What’s Uthu Again the unnervingly confident half smile. “Say, Asian. need specific. such things are a relic another existence, before became venues Now his visitor was starting make nut noises, Cody decided. Glancing around casually wiped his hands with a linen napkin, scanned the street for signs a passing cop. None were sight. also paid attention the man’s hands. the moment they rested the table, plain sight. one slid toward a pocket, Cody felt might have react. Still, the Department Archaeology was not typically a destination deranged individuals. They tended favor the animal research center, the student newspaper, the science labs that did work for the military. Research bones and pots did not engender the kind primeval passion that normally led physical assault. “I see replied carefully. Waving a bit too energetically the direction the waiter, called for his check. was time . “And what, you don’t mind asking, are you a venue for “This Leaning forward, the man went slack half-a-dozen tendrils erupted from his eye sockets. Each one terminated a single, smaller eye that was a venomous and sickly yellow. Thicker tentacles tinged with green burst forth from his stomach, while from the vicinity his crotch emerged a set black jaws lined with multiple rows small, sharp teeth. Cody flailed wildly and nearly fell off his chair. His fluttering fingers swept through reaching eyes and tentacles and blackness. A cold dampness enveloped his hands, they had been plunged into a pool liquid death. Tiny, vicious mouths snapped spitefully his flesh but did damage. Several diners glanced his direction, only return indifferently their half-eaten meals and half-finished conversations. one saw anything more than a lanky young man who had momentarily slipped out his chair. The eyeballs stalks withdrew, the tendrils contracted, and the vile ebon maw sank back out sight between the man’s legs. blinked once, had momentarily been asleep, comatose. smile accompanied his revived consciousness.

Cody wanted run away, had run from a nest baby rattlers when the age seven slipped and became trapped a narrow arroyo his uncle’s ranch. was a beautiful day. was surrounded happy, active people content their work and leisure. Outside, beyond the iron fence that marked the limits the outdoor restaurant, ubiquitous English sparrows hopped energetically and fro, scavenging for table crumbs. A pair rocks protruded from landscaping gravel. From each rock a saw-edged shaft projected vertically, weaving slowly back and forth like a lethal yucca. The sparrows ignored . did the people using the sidewalk beyond. They could not see . Only Cody could see . —and Uthu. “What are you Cody spoke slowly straightened his chair beneath him. The monstrosities abiding within the smaller man could not molest him they would certainly already have done . Evidently they were restricted one host a time. was instructive, the cool scientific part his mind noted automatically, have confirmed the supposition that a single person could play host more than one the disquieting parasites. “A man, like yourself. Human, but one who has given himself over the Interlopers “ that’s what they’re called felt unreasonably good able finally give a name the diverse miscellany malevolent nightmares. “ what who are given over have chosen call them. They have name for their collective selves. who are given over not ‘talk’ them the accepted sense, nor share anything like a recognizable telepathy. must rely feelings, sensations, certain urges They had moved into territory wholly new Cody, a place where had not even ventured speculate. “You mean, you voluntarily serve a host these things “Not first. one becomes a host intentionally. The great majority humans who are called upon have awareness their altered state. They are blessed a sustained ignorance their condition Around them, the sun was shining, pretty girls were laughing, young men posturing energetically. Food and drink were being affably consumed, and traffic flowed smoothly Mill. And was sitting outdoors the Baja Naja, toying with the remains a perfectly agreeable unspectacular lunch while discussing a kind previously unsuspected diabolic state being with extensively parasitized visitor from another continent. needed a drink, but the restaurant did not serve liquor until after five o’clock. Iced tea would have . “You say they are blessed their ignorance Cody continued watch the man’s hands, which remained plain view. “Doesn’t sound like being ‘given over’ a condition desired “ not the man assured him somberly. “One leads a life unending misery and despair, physical pain and mental torment. But there are compensations “Yeah, sounds like “Sarcasm misplaced a scientist Uthu continued without missing a beat. “Sometimes when I think I cannot stand the suffering, when brain will tear itself pieces from the sheer unrelenting anguish serving a host, I console myself with the knowledge that I will live longer than all but a very few fellow humans. not immortality, not any means, but something. A crumb a gift, but a gift nonetheless “ these Interlopers, they can extend a life Cody prompted him. A slow nod provided answer. “Once comfortably settled within a cooperative venue, they have that ability, yes “That’s gift Cody was once fascinated and horrified the parasitized man sitting across the table from him. “ parasite wants its host die. that happens, has through the trouble finding another frowned

remembrance. “I’ve passed hands through a number them without suffering more than a quick chill. Yet you say that once inside, they cause pain and torment Uthu nodded somberly. “That what they want. They not, cannot, induce cerebral discomfort directly. follows a consequence mental anguish “Yet spite that you serve a venue the archaeologist murmured. “Yes, serve. What choice have? Once infected, not possible made clean again. For that happen, Interloper must leave its own accord “ they ever that? Abandon a host, I mean “ The Asian’s face was drawn but resigned. “Never. Not until the host dies “ turns psychotic Cody speculated pensively. “Not all Uthu was quick correct him. “Interlopers prosper amidst insanity. They thrive the milk madness “I’ve seen people become infected. None them showed any awareness what was happening them. Why are you different “Some , a very few, have within our minds the ability sense that have been contaminated. This makes valuable the Interlopers. They exist a plane adjacent our own. The many points congruence are subtler than you think. While they can move freely within rock and solid wood, physically the Interlopers cannot affect our world. But they can affect those few like myself, and turn can affect our plane existence. Like Cody flinched, but the man’s hand was not reaching for him. Instead, swept aside the water glass that had been set before him. Cold water and ice went flying, just missing the couple seated the table nearest them. The girl rose sharply, wiping where her thigh lay bare beneath the short skirt. Her male companion looked irritated. “Sorry—we’re sorry. was accident Cody apologized hastily. Sufficiently mollified, the young couple returned their meal. Sitting back down, the archaeologist glared across the table. “There was call for that “ the contrary, there always call for that Uthu assured him quietly. “And for—other things Cody’s eyes widened. “You killed Harry Keeler The Asian smiled ever thinly. Was nature this calm and cavalier, the archaeologist wondered, was being wholly controlled outside influences? his case, inside ones. How much what was saying, how many his words, were his own, and how much and how many the province something else? Was independent human being working concert with the horrors that now possessed him, body and soul, was nothing more than a slave, a puppet, responding the pestilent strings that now penetrated his brain well his body? His was clearly a case extreme parasitism. Had his Interlopers left him any individuality all, was little more than a shell the human being had once been? The answers, Cody decided, were a matter for biologists determine. a psychic, possibly exorcist, though there was nothing Catholic about the suave Uthu’s possession. “. was not I “I’ve seen enough these creatures know that they can’t physically strike out a person. You have make contact with their habitation for them able affect you. they can make contact having infected individual impact another, just like they’re making you talk , right now

Uthu nodded. “A good scientist a trained observer. You perceive, note, and draw inferences. They would like you like Seeing that Cody was watching his hands closely, the visitor smiled. “Don’t worry, I’m not going grab you. They can only pass from a natural habitation a human, not from one human another. Otherwise would not have been necessary annul the man you call Harry Keeler. could simply have been -opted “Are you going try and kill Cody was amazed his own degree calm, sitting outside the shade, surrounded laughing, conversing, debating people, discussing his own demise with a stranger whose actions were being directed invisible, hitherto unknown parasites inimical nature and composition. beggared belief ways that would have given pause a theoretical physicist. How many dimensions did they now claim made the universe? Eleven, wasn’t ? ten? was the matter still for debate? Were these Interlopers intruders from one those five dimensions kept neatly “rolled ” physicists? Were humans their point contact with this dimension? And what, exactly did they get out invading and influencing and residing within humans themselves? Despite Uthu’s flattering remark, Cody was well aware that did not know nearly enough yet draw conclusions; not about the Interlopers, nor about the individuals they infected. “ necessary Uthu replied calmly the archaeologist’s question. “Keeler was abolished because was possession the written formula for the elixir that enables humans see Interlopers. That was a very dangerous thing. humans could see the Interlopers, they would avoid them. Then Interloper would able feed “ ‘Feed’?” The revelation conjured a storm images Cody’s brain, each more repellent than the one before. The Asian did not elaborate. “Naturally, the Interlopers wish prevent such a calamity from happening. Since the dawn mankind they have usually managed . The Chachapoyan shamans were exception, and their rising civilization a concern, until they were conquered and absorbed the Incas “ these Interlopers influenced the Incas overthrow the Chachapoyans “Yes Uthu smiled thoughtfully. “Though the Incas would have done eventually anyway, just they subjugated every other Andean civilization. The Interlopers simply assisted where possible—and course, enjoyed the fruits their labors: war, famine, despair. Once the Incas had conquered all their neighbors and absorbed them, their Empire the Sun grew too content support many Interlopers. That was when the Spanish arrived. few number, they could never have vanquished the Inca Empire without some—assistance. “ became imperative that the Empire destroyed, because when the Chachapoyan cities were incorporated into the Inca kingdom, was their knowledge the Interlopers, and other things. There was a great danger that the Incas would disseminate this new knowledge While Cody the individual feared for his life, Cody the archaeologist was fascinated his visitor’s tale. “, after helping the Incas defeat the Chachapoyans and others, they turned them and helped Pizarro and his conquistadors conquer the Empire “Not exactly. They helped the Incas lose the conquistadors. There a difference The smile widened unpleasantly. “Remember the reactions the Incas the arrival the Spanish. While they could see many the Interlopers, they could not keep track them all. was the Interlopers who started the fight between Atahualpa and his brother, thus splitting and weakening a previously united Empire its most vulnerable moment. was Interloper who influenced the Inca stupidly permit himself taken captive the Spaniards. After that, was Interlopers who spread divisiveness and fear among those Incas who were still determined resist the invaders Sitting back his chair, Uthu sipped his glass water.

“You know how the Incas were terrified Spaniards horseback, how they thought they were a frightful combination man and beast? They suffered from such fears until the Interlopers spread those weaknesses among them. Why should they think such things, when they had always had around them four-legged beasts burden such llamas and alpacas and vicunas, unless they had been encouraged and inflamed think differently? Why you think the vast reinforcements they could call upon did not come the aid their rulers until was too late, allowing the Spaniards carve the Empire piece piece? One the Interlopers’ great strengths their ability work subtle ways “They influenced and weakened the whole Empire that fashion Cody was nonplused. Like all his colleagues, had always admired the Incas and marveled the ease with which a ruthless but pitifully small band invading Spaniards had destroyed Empire that reached from Colombia Chile. “. was not possible taint every Inca. Only those power, the nobles and the generals and their immediate subordinates, were affected. And only a few them, that This time, the visitor’s smile was entirely ruthless, contorted something utterly inhuman. “The Incas, fortunately, loved around rock and stone. Selective infestation could carried out a prompt and efficient manner. Occasionally, for various reasons, could not accomplished appropriately time. Ollyantaytambo was the most glaring example Cody started. “The Incas beat the Spaniards there. Twice The Asian nodded. “Until the commanding general and his staff could visited, and persuaded the necessary thing. Only then did the Sacred Valley the Urubamba fall the Spaniards Gazing off into the distance, the man who was longer unconditionally human wore a look bliss. “Soon after that, the Inquisition arrived “Yes, and the consequences for Cody broke off, his train thought interrupted yet another repellent revelation. “More work these Interlopers Uthu’s smile was positively feral. “You draw conclusions well pushed back from the table. “We’re not going kill you. For now. Not because can’t. Your ability see those whom abide does not protect you from who have been blessed Even Uthu spoke the words, Cody thought could see something still human, something chained and suffering the throes ultimate unending torment, screaming get out from behind the Asian’s too-bright eyes. “ are the arms, the appendages Those Who Abide. can work physically what they cannot. This for them. “ will not kill you because widely known that you were working with Harry Keeler. Coming close his, your unexpected demise would arouse suspicions. has therefore been decided let you live A different sort smile, warm and ingratiating, creased the Asian’s visage. was faux the wood painted look like marble that lined much the main reading room the library. “All you have give any research the Chachapoyan shamanic codex, destroy your existing notes , and have nothing further with the subject. yes added pleasantly, “and stop interfering with the established activities the Interlopers this part the world. You may observe them all you wish. only asked that you not intervene Cody had listened without comment. “Anything else “Your wife will doubt question your abrupt termination this particular line research. You must convince her that you have legitimate and innocuous reasons for doing . Perhaps heightened interest other aspects your specialty. The rationale you concoct importance . And course you must also see that she does not pursue the work that you are abandon. Should she , there could —consequences Uthu hesitated only briefly. “She very pretty, your mate Cody’s expression darkened. “How the hell would you know? What have you been doing? Where have you been Conscious that several diners had turned look his direction, forced himself lower his voice.

“You keep away from Kelli. She has nothing with this. fact, she thinks I was crazy for spending all the time that I did, especially working with Harry “Then that will make easy for her accept your change focus The visitor rose from his chair. “Despite what you may think, who serve Those Who Abide are still human. still have human desires, and needs. Remember that, lest you are tempted ignore this warning. Defy Those Who Abide, and you will find yourself envying the man Harry Keeler Perhaps aware that might erring the side challenge, reached down pick the check for Cody’s lunch. “Why should you care, Coschocton Westcott? Humankind has survived and prospered the presence the Interlopers. will continue even the presence your silence. Leave the world you found a year ago. You know something people, alive well dead. Are they not better off not knowing? Reveal all them, and there would panic, hysteria, and a reign terror and death “Just there has always been Cody replied tersely. “The question : How much that due natural, guileless human activity, how much enduring species immaturity, and how much the presence and interference Interlopers? don’t seem have done too well, have acted very intelligently, while they have been active among , influencing and persuading and ‘feeding Maybe we’d a lot better off without them. Maybe would even grow a little Fearful but determined, leaned forward across the table. “I’m biologist, but I have yet encounter instance animal that’s not better off the absence parasites Uthu did not withdraw from the younger, bigger man’s presence. “ not for you decide. Not for you, , any other person Within his visitor, Cody continued sense the shrunken remnants a real individual human being howling emerge from a very private and particularly loathsome prison. There was nothing could for this Uthu, knew. found himself wondering: Could anything for anyone else? They seemed know everything. About him, his work, even Kelli. could not make any decisions without considering her. would easier she believed him. maybe, just maybe, was better that she did not. Was very much that Uthu was asking behalf the repulsiveness that abided the world? One empire would always conquer another, with without the outside intervention Interlopers. People would always fight, argue, bicker and disagree, whether influenced abiding Interlopers not. —would they? Exactly how much human misery and despair was a natural consequence sheer existence, and how much due the interference this vast panoply unearthly parasitic beings? could alter that equation suffering, even a little, did not have a duty ? His research had given him the gift sight a world where blindness a widespread, specific evil reigned unchallenged. Did not owe his fellow man utilize that talent the best his ability, and for the greater good? was a measure the Interlopers’ concern that they had gone the trouble murdering one individual and threatening another keep knowledge their existence, and their influence human affairs, covert. Perhaps they were not omnipotent the hapless Uthu insinuated. their intention was frighten him, they could have chosen a more intimidating figure than the comparatively diminutive Asian. Maybe they exerted complete control over only a very few humans. course, reminded himself sat the table and ignored what remained his lunch, did not take a very large powerful person pull the trigger a pistol. But they did not want him dead. Not they could avoid . Hadn’t Uthu just said ? Coming close Harry Keeler’s death, would prompt inquiries more extensive than usual, give rise questions they would rather not have asked. For a little while then, for indeterminate amount time, felt could count a modicum safety. That was fortunate, because had intention whatsoever complying with Uthu’s demands. Once the turmoil caused Professor Keeler’s violent death had passed beyond the point evening television

newsworthiness, someone would come for him the night. Him, and doubtless Kelli well. they would accosted the street armed mugger, who would “panic” and shoot them both. Despite the Asian’s reassuring speech, Cody had illusions about what lay store for him. Unless could find a means acquiring more positive protection than the knowledge now possessed and could not forswear, was a man without a future. The Interlopers would not let anyone who knew their existence live. Why should they, when humans were easy kill? They would tolerate his survival until they felt the time was right and that was safe for another member the university’s faculty depart this plane existence without incurring a host unanswerable questions. Even though Kelli did not believe his stories otherworldly apparitions entering and somehow feeding unwary human beings, they would kill her, too. His wife was a loose end who subsequent his unexpected demise might turn into a loose cannon. strongly suspected that Those Who Abide could counted not leave a mess. But what could ? What had managed decipher far the Chachapoyan codex said nothing about a means for protecting oneself from the influence the Interlopers. Was there, could there , such a thing? And existed, how was about finding ? There had something. not, then the Chachapoyans could not have raised the remarkable mountain civilization that eventually fell the rapacious Incas. There remained a trove photographs glyphs and carvings that awaited explication. Far from abandoning his work, would throw himself back into with a vengeance. had idea how much time remained him, how long the Interlopers and their human vassals would wait before deciding was more hazardous their activities leave him alive than render him dead. Meanwhile, would trust one, and would watch his back. They had not been blatant their execution poor Harry Keeler. one had walked the chemist and stuck a gun his face. And Harry had been given warning, had had idea what was coming. , Cody Westcott, was forewarned. could keep watch. His decision was made. Aside from his own welfare, there was too much potential for the general good riding his continued research for him quit now. Which was undoubtedly why the Interlopers were anxious put a stop .

Seven For several months, nothing happened. Though put every minute could spare from teaching, academic concerns, and his home and social life into his research, Cody was not disturbed. one interrupted him, one tried put a stop what was doing. For a while, every time someone tapped him the shoulder grunted him from behind, would whirl sharply, expecting confront the zealous, vaguely portentous shape his menacing Asian visitor, Uthu. never saw him again. had two papers published. One, a joint piece with Kelli Chachapoyan glyphs and carvings, was widely reviewed. Kudos and commendations trickled into their respective offices. Jan Buchinski, their department head, was sufficiently pleased the collateral academic celebrity and its attendant professional publicity recommend both Westcotts for accelerated advancement full professor status. Cody’s solo paper the origins Chachapoyan shamanism, which was more narrowly focused and thus less widely disseminated, nonetheless marked him important young man the field watch. Kelli’s work Apachetarimac’s architecture was likewise garnering considerable critical praise. Though they received better offers from half-a-dozen minor colleges and two major universities noted for the

excellence their archaeology departments, they elected, for the time being, remain ASU. Buchinski’s recommendation that they both promoted and given tenure had proved timely. Cody was halfway through the rough draft a follow- paper, containing his views certain aspects Chachapoyan medicinal procedures both confirmed and hypothesized, when minor inscrutables began intrude his life. first they barely grazed his consciousness. For months had been avoiding the conventional attentions the local Interlopers. After a while became automatic. simply avoided making contact with unadulterated natural materials without even bothering ascertain they were home one more the invasive creatures. Kelli still did not believe him, but when they were together was able steer her away from potential trouble. The rest the time she was either work home, both comparatively safe venues. Not every rock harbored a resident Interloper. Not every tree was a source potential infection. She had argued with him when replaced the couch, one chair, the paneling behind their bed, and had the decorative stone their backyard removed, but her irritation passed quickly. was not had insisted redoing the entire house. When she pushed him for reasons did not try convince her yet again the Interlopers’ presence, but instead insisted merely wanted a few minor aesthetic changes. way asserting her own independence the matter, she promptly had the kitchen redone. raised objections. There were Interlopers the kitchen, and bringing new tile, paint, and paper she ran risk importing any. adept had become ferreting them out, unthinking the process perception, that did not even glance anymore the glistening greenish pseudopod that thrust forth every morning from the large decorative boulder that sat the corner Mill and Third Avenue. was his way meet a couple graduate students from his advanced seminar who were about south for the summer work the Peruvian site San Jose Moro. They wanted his advice what take with them. When the pseudopod groped his direction, simply walked right through . long made contact with the boulder that served its home, could not affect him. left writhing furiously his wake. And then slipped. did not see the oil the street because was covered with loose sheets newspaper that had blown onto the spot and become stuck. The crumpled pages concealed a thick patch the slick, gooey stuff, and soon put his weight , his left leg went out from under him. The slip sent him careening sideways. A man walking nearby put down the bag was carrying and rushed help, but was too far away and too late arriving. Cody went down hard, the shock striking the solid concrete jarring his right arm and shoulder. Odorless green effluvia clawed his side, seeking a way . falling, had just missed making firm contact with the boulder. Shakily, scrambled clear, eyeing the unwholesome inhabitant the boulder were a rabid anaconda tethered a tree. could not break loose, and had not quite made contact. But had been a near thing. The pseudopod represented Interloper considerable size. had barely avoided a potentially severe infection. Though late arriving, the man with the bag was solicitous. “You all right, friend? That was a pretty hard fall you just took “Yeah. Yeah, I’m okay Still shaken, Cody was brushing street grime off his shirt. His shoulder throbbed where had smashed into the sidewalk and his shirt now boasted a small rip that would cause the always money-conscious Kelli sigh when she saw . “Thanks for asking “ problem Hefting his bag, the man resumed his own interrupted itinerary. “Better watch where you’re stepping next time

Cody looked away. “Damn papers covering the oil. I didn’t see But wasn’t able See, now? Oil, papers, rock, Interloper. Surely just a coincidence, nearly a lethal one. Whirling, sought the would- Samaritan, straining see over the heads wandering pedestrians. The man had vanished; into the crowds, into his car, perhaps into a store. Cody started search him, then hesitated. What the guy had been nothing more than what appeared : a concerned bystander. that event, Cody would come off looking pretty asinine challenged him, not mention ungrateful. With a last glance the hungrily writhing Interloper, resumed his walk, careful step around any newspapers that were lying the street whether they appeared hiding oil slicks not. Safely reaching the juice bar where was meet the two students, finally allowed himself relax. Nevertheless, the thought how close he’d come disaster stayed with him all the rest the morning. the time and his students parted, had come the conclusion that the close encounter had been isolated incident. While uniquely sensible the singular dangers abroad the world which nearly everyone else was oblivious, had remember always that though could perceive them, was not immune them. Awareness had made him imprudent. The incident was a warning for him more alert. Disconcertingly, there were more warnings come. Two days later, for the first time, witnessed Interloper the process leaving its host. While walking down the hall toward idling pair university employees, Cody overheard one janitor complaining the other that had been suffering from a serious stomachache for days. the archaeologist prepared walk , was startled see a very small Interloper slither from the man’s hand enter the pumice stone was holding. looked like a bloated eel, fat from feeding its host. How the Interlopers ‘fed’ was still a mystery Cody, though his persevering work the Chachapoyan codex was beginning yield hints that pointed toward a possible answer. halted close the two men dared without being obvious about , and stood there the pretext reading one the magazines was carrying. Ignoring him, the pair continued their conversation. One thing the eavesdropping archaeologist picked immediately: The first speaker’s relieved declaration that his bellyache had left him. all the people wandering the hall, only Coshocton Westcott knew just how literal was the janitor’s judgment. Refolding the magazine, resumed his course, having garnered another valuable insight into Interloper behavior. the same time, the two janitors started toward him. they did , their legs became entangled. Mops and buckets went flying, accompanied startled oaths. alert Cody leaped straight . The soapy contents one bucket rushed past beneath his feet, the miniature flash flood carrying with a pair yellowed sponges and one sodden pumice stone. floated speedily , the stone put forth a small, engorged, but still hungry Interloper. missed the front end the archaeologist’s open-toed Tevas inches. Both men apologized profusely for the near-drenching. While they were doing , Cody searched their faces, but could find nothing inimical, nothing sly, lurking within. Perhaps the men were innocent, perhaps they were dupes, maybe had just been accident. Another accident. Today being Kelli’s day off, had the car himself. was walking toward the parking facility when saw Interloper flow from the decorative tree against which a bicycle was leaning into the bike’s owner. Too late prevent the infestation from taking place, could only look with regret the newly infected, unaware female undergrad began pedal off.

That was when saw the second student, swinging around the far corner the red brick building her larger, heavier, mountain bike. They ought miss each other, knew. There was plenty room for them cleanly pass one another the paved serviceway between the two buildings, plenty time for each cyclist see the other one coming. But having coolly observed what had just taken place, Cody sensed that something less sanguine was about happen. The infected girl was attractive and lightly dressed for the season, was her onrushing opposite number. misplaced deference the brutal afternoon heat a desert summer, and for the usual reasons unjustifiable fashion, neither woman wore protective gear. The sidewalk was searingly hot, rough-surfaced, and unyielding. Raising one hand and waving, rushed forward. “Look out, both you, look out Either they didn’t hear him, chose ignore a warning neither realized was being directed them. The girl the bigger bike was steering with one hand while holding the booklet she was reading the other. The one who had moments ago become unwitting host Interloper had her head down lost unhappy thought, not realizing that the reason for her nonobservance the route ahead was a consequence influences beyond her control. Both were moving too fast. There was one else around second Cody’s warning. Racing toward them while waving wildly, shouted a second time—too late. instant before collision the student the mountain bike looked see the other girl bearing down her, legs churning fluidly, young muscles working peak efficiency. Dropping the booklet she’d been reading, she attempted swerve the right. Her last-minute attempt avert a collision only worsened the impact. Proximity led realization the part the infected woman. she finally raised her head, her eyes widened and she emitted a soft, startled yelp. Her bike struck the mountain bike broadside, sending both them crashing the hot pavement a lacerating tangle spokes, handlebars, seats, wheels, and bruised flesh. Cody was the spot seconds, reaching down into the moaning confusion worked extricate both injured women from the jigsaw twisted aluminum and unyielding composite materials. The contaminated girl was crying. Her blouse and shorts were torn and streaks blood showed through. Since she appeared worse shape, knelt assist her first. From previous experience knew that Interlopers could not flow from person person: Infection could arise only from contact with their natural habitat. was not worried put one hand her shoulder and offered reassurance. “It’s okay. I’m going get you out here eyed her left leg hesitantly. lay awkward angle, bent beneath her. “ you think you can stand “I—Owww Looking down herself, she wiped roughly her eyes, trying clear the tears that were obstructing her vision. “I think leg broken “Okay, okay admonished her softly. “Just stay like that. Don’t move Raising his gaze, searched the far end the passageway between the two buildings. Where was everybody? “I’m going call the Health Department. They’ll have someone out here right away “Not right away. They’re always slow Sniffling, the girl suddenly looked him—and grinned savagely. “Besides, what’s your hurry “That’s right. need rush off was the other girl who spoke. Since she was less seriously injured, had momentarily forgotten her. remembered her now, she threw herself against his back. the same time, the young woman beneath him reached with both arms and pulled him downward. she shifted, thought could hear the osseous components the compound fracture her left leg grinding against one another. could see the pain race across her face, but otherwise she ignored .

Interloper influence, surmised. But the girl his back… Fighting throw her off, but not too roughly lest the action exacerbate her injuries, wrenched around the grasp the girl the ground. Only a great deal self-control allowed him kill the scream that threatened explode his throat. Where the young woman’s eyes should have been were a pair battered bluish stalks that terminated sickly yellow eyeballs. They dipped and bobbed, weaving back and forth they hovered less than a foot from his face. Turning away reflexively, saw that the beautiful, innocent eyes the girl the ground had been replaced a writhing mass worms, each boasting a single bulging, oversized eye their own. Not one, but both the cyclists were hosts Interlopers. intent had been observing the newly infected girl that had neglected look hard the other. had been set . But for what? Without a natural habitat serve vector, neither Interloper could transfer from one the female hosts into him. The snarl bikes and bodies lay sprawled a pathway neutral concrete that lapped against a pair inert brick structures. The nearest rocks and growing things that could possibly serve hosts additional communicable monstrosities lay some distance away. “You were told stop your research The girl his back clung him with a feral tenacity that belied her appearance. “You haven’t added the smaller figure beneath him. struggled their binary hold, wanting free himself from their grasp but not willing hurt either them the process. After all, neither student was directly responsible for her actions. They were afflicted, suffering from the overriding influence the malevolent parasites within. Though bigger and stronger, was having trouble breaking free. Both young women were exerting themselves beyond what could normally expected their unremarkable physiques, their bodies driven their natural limits those who were presently inhabiting them. The girl beneath him should have been screaming pain the broken bones her left leg grated and ground against one another. Instead, she continued smile wolfishly him from beneath the writhing worms that had replaced her eyes. “I’m archaeologist protested. “ research life “None among could have put better Leaning forward, the corrupted young woman clinging his back whispered into his ear. “Find other subject matter. Begin a different line study. And stop interfering with—the feeding a tone inhumanly chilling found difficult believe came from innocent and smooth a throat, the young woman added, “This your last warning “You see how easily you can deceived, despite your irksome ability See declared the figure beneath him. “Ignore this warning your peril, and sooner later you will make a mistake. Touch a stone, lean against a tree, caress the flower that you’re smelling. Eventually you will touch, lean against, caress a habitat occupation, and then you will become one The glaring worm-face rippled like pustulent grass. “Continue defy the wishes Those Who Abide, and your eventual, inevitable hosting will not pleasant “From everything I’ve been able see and learn, none them are With one arm, swept the girl off his back. She clung ferociously his left arm, like a leech waving the wind, reluctant let him . The empyemic worm-things vanished, sinking back into the smooth-skinned face the injured girl beneath him. The savage smile remained. “ not necessary attend you directly, Coschocton Westcott. You may think yourself secure long you remain unvisited, but such not necessarily the case. Your deviant society affords innumerable

opportunities for contrivance Glancing down herself, she used her eyes draw his attention the tattered state her clothing. “For example Sudden, artfully constructed fear transformed her expression. Her lips parted wide and she yelled, modestly and not too loudly, “Rape A stunned Cody started put a hand over her mouth, stopping when realized how the gesture might interpreted someone newly arrived the scene. Her perverted grin taunted him. “I could yell louder. Much louder “ could I declared the other young woman, whom had finally shrugged off. Rising, she straightened her clothing. she did , the girl lying bent and broken beneath the archaeologist finally released him from her grasp. stumbled away from her hastily she had suddenly turned into a cobra. The girl who had leapt his back helped her companion get . How the one who had lain beneath him was able stand her fractured leg Cody could not imagine. The pain ought overcome even the strongest individual. Noting the direction his stare, the other girl elucidated. “Yes, she pain. Severe pain. A good thing, such pain. What desired bring about suffering but not unconsciousness, anguish but not death. A deceased host source nourishment “ ‘Nourishment’?” Still dazed the rapid course events, Cody was not sure was hearing correctly. “What kind sick, diseased relationship this “The same kind that you will one day enjoy, Coshocton Westcott. Only will the worse for you, you not cease With that, the two girls turned. Perhaps they were aware the two male students who had come upon the scene and were now rushing forward offer their assistance. maybe the demonstration had coincidentally reached its end. Cody stood staring the two young men took the suddenly weeping, openly bewildered girls hand. Now that the Interloper parasites had chosen slip into the mental and physical background, all the pain and distress the collision that had heretofore been repressed surged the fore. The girl who had suffered the broken leg collapsed and had lifted and carried. she crumpled last onto her ruined leg, the archaeologist thought could hear laughter. Aberrant, pitiless, demonic laughter. There was nothing could . Both blameless young women were beyond his help. Grinding his teeth, turned away and resumed his interrupted march toward the parking facility and his car. Devious, they were. saw now that the danger was even greater than had supposed. They did not have infect him with one their own affect his course action his life. Those they had already contaminated could malevolently steered into performing actions they would never have contemplated their own. For now, could see them coming. But the incident involving the two girls demonstrated, his attention could distracted, his perception compromised, his judgment hurried. Make one mistake, one wrong move a critical moment, and could easily find himself jail, worse. The consequences the cycling demonstration were not what the Interlopers intended. All his life, whenever had been threatened challenged, had been Cody Westcott’s nature fight back with redoubled effort. They had just made a fool him. vowed would not happen again, and not because intended comply with their demands bow their intimidation. made him more determined than ever find a way disseminate the incalculably valuable knowledge had acquired. would find someone help him reproduce the results Harry Keeler’s work. More the sacred elixir that

had been devised the Chachapoyan shamans would brewed. Others would drink , only disabuse him his crazy notions a scourge invisible Interlopers that were plaguing mankind. With every new convert, each new believer, the ability resist the malicious organisms would grow. Could they killed? Could one who was “abiding” destroyed without harming its host? Such vital, unanswered questions only reinforced his determination continue with and even expand upon his research. Harry Keeler had not known what faced. Cody did. slipped behind the wheel his car his face was set a grimace determination. Let them threaten him. Each time they demonstrated a new way impacting his life, they exposed more their abilities. There seemed only two: the ability infect him directly, and the capacity induce others who were already unwilling hosts alter their normal behavior. They could draw lightning bolts down from the sky incinerate him, spawn toxic gases blow into his face poison him, and could not induce the earth open beneath his feet swallow him. was not invulnerable, but neither did continue exist only their mercy. They were insidious and clever, but they were not omnipotent. There had a way kill them. They were fearful more than his ability perceive them and interfere with their activities. Otherwise, they would simply have ignored him. What did matter another thousand, ten thousand, a million human beings became able detect their presence, they could nothing alter that presence? , they were afraid something. That was why they were anxious stop him now, before could uncover whatever was that they feared. Something must pose a greater peril them than mere recognition. , Cody Westcott, was going find out what that was. And then was going make use . the weeks that followed his confrontation with the pair possessed cyclists, the Abiders tried make good their threat. prepared best could. Though she looked him askance, Kelli agreed not touch any bare rocks trees plants unless was present. experiment, called , pleading with her until she consented. Shaking her head and smiling dolefully, she avowed that her husband was going laboring under a continuing delusion, least was one that seemed comparatively benign. They had the advantage living a large city. Too many natural objects, too many potential Interloper habitats existed the countryside. Native peoples like the Chachapoyans would have been hard pressed find refuge from the Interlopers. Perhaps that was why city dwellers were more immune than their country cousins legends and fables inimical spirits. That supposition alone offered material enough for another entire thesis. would have wait. was too busy staying alive. that respect was possible was overreacting. With the exception Harry Keeler, who posed a direct threat the Abiders, had yet see hear Interloper killing a human being. the contrary, would make sense for them work keeping their human hosts alive. A parasite without a home might starve death. What, exactly, did happen abiding Interloper when its human host passed ? Since they could not translocate directly from one person another, did that mean the Interloper perished simultaneously? did they linger within the corpse hopes coming contact with stone wood, using one the other a vector once more infect someone new? There was little knew about them, and doubted even a comprehensive search the library’s extensive resources would yield very much the way hard information the biology imaginary creatures. Not that didn’t have the opportunity learn from observation. was frightening see just how many the horrors were abroad the world. His fellow humans went about their daily business unaware the writhing swarm nebulous monstrosities that shared their existence. Like some very minor-league

superhero cursed with a single unassuming power, intervened behalf his unseeing fellow humans whenever could. His efforts were not always appreciated those saved from infestation, who had idea the danger they were such moments the closeness their respective calls. The Interlopers knew, however. They screamed silently him but were unable forestall his interference. Time and again work, the streets, a mall, outside a supermarket, and once a football game, saved one more heedless innocents from being infected. Sometimes his efforts drew bemused stares, sometimes indifference, and once a while, outright uncomprehending hostility. Irrespective the almost-victims’ reactions, persevered, knowing that was doing a good thing, realizing that his own singular, small way was helping keep a tiny portion mankind healthier and saner than would have been without his intervention. Strolling down the street either himself the company his wife friends, seeking shelter from the desert sun, kept a wary but inconspicuous eye the raging horde Interlopers that seemed populate every third rock, every fourth tree, every tenth bush planter full flowers. watched his fellow pedestrians well, alert for indications that any might inhabited rancorous otherworldly things that danced grotesquely a light that only could discern. They kept trying. They were persistent, and determined—but was . And the more aware them became through experience, the faster and easier was for him detect and avoid them. His only fear was that the effects the potion might wear off, leaving him once more blind their presence the rest incognizant humankind. days and then weeks passed, however, his perception remained clear ever. anything, was sharpened each new encounter. They tried deceive him with a bouquet flowers delivered anonymously his office. Among the roses were small arching horrors that would have pricked his soul instead his skin. The vase they arrived was made from cut and polished marble, but fooled him more than did its contents, for the vase was likewise inhabited, entirely different strain Interloper. the creatures could not inhabit pass through any artificial material, donned plastic gloves before picking the lethal bouquet and carrying carefully the nearest dumpster. The virulent inhabitants vase and flowers flailed ineffectively him tossed them both into the big steel rubbish receptacle. They might have got him the morning drove work tired and preoccupied, but saw the truck coming time and instead stopping, accelerated before could turn into his path. jumped the curb his wake and bounced across half a parking lot before smashing into the side a furniture store. his rearview mirror, Cody could see the driver stagger out the truck’s cab and collapse the pavement. From his spine emerged a particularly large and vicious-looking perversion that waved half a dozen eyestalks and claw-tipped tendrils the direction the archaeologist’s fleeing car. For every accident the Interlopers caused, Cody prevented a dozen. For every moment misery they induced, helped the ignorant and unknowing avoid many more. They seethed and fumed him but could not touch him. spite Kelli’s chastising but tolerant tongue, succeeded rendering their own home virtually Interloper-proof. Meanwhile, spent every free moment digging ever deeper into the Chachapoyan codex, searching for a means that would enable one not only see the malignancies, but destroy them. There had a way, was convinced. Otherwise mankind would have long since been overrun the horrors that dwelled within, gone collectively mad. was not enough able avoid the Interlopers. There had exist a means for confronting them directly, and for eradicating them. the time the midafternoon heat had fallen from boiling merely simmering, when the temperature the Valley the Sun could read less than triple-digits Fahrenheit and a whiff approaching fall manifested

itself the smell decaying leaves, was feeling pretty good about things. His research was progressing well. was convinced that a mechanism for not merely avoiding the Interlopers but for fighting back was hand. Despite its forbidding population psychic parasites, the world was looking good Cody turned down the street which lived. eyed the neat, prosperous homes with their desert landscaping approvingly. Thanks his relentless, covert efforts, his immediate neighbors lived nearly free Interlopers. a result, his was a street populated smiling people and happy families. Unwitting and unawares, they had been blessed none other than Coschocton Westcott. A psychologist conducting a study the neighborhood would have been astonished the abnormal level contentment found there without having the slightest idea its cause. Cody was smiling turned into the driveway. Waiting greet him were Mark and Dana from next door. Uncharacteristically, the expressions their faces were grim. Frowning, parked the driveway, grabbed his laptop, and moved confront them. That was when saw that the door his house was standing open wide. Kelli was not silhouetted there waiting greet him. The scene made sense. Why would she leave the door open and not invite their friends inside? conversely, not standing outside chatting with them pulled ? started around the front the car, Mark moved intercept him. “She’s not here, Cody gestured the house. “I’ve already let your cats out Behind him, Dana stood with one hand clasped tightly the other. Her expression was agonized. The archaeologist swallowed hard, panic rising within him. His gaze swept the Interloper-free yard well the one next door. Nothing alien and half-visible mocked him from across the street. Maybe was leaping conclusions. Maybe was something else entirely. People did suffer from sickness and injury due other causes. Those Who Abide might the root a large, inexplicable chunk humankind’s cultural grief, but they were not responsible for everything. Not everything. let Mark and Dana drive him the hospital clung desperately that single frantic, forlorn hope.

Eight Sun-washed and recent Mintage, most the hospitals the greater Phoenix metropolitan area glowed with comforting earth tones banded with rows darkened glass windows. The one Scottsdale that Kelli had been rushed was exception. East Coast city older vintage the complex might have been mistaken for a new office building software park. Entering, one was instantly disabused any such frivolous notion. matter their location lineage, design décor, the inside hospitals were invariably similar. And there was always the unmistakable dry tang disinfectant. was not a place which Cody wanted find the light his life. only she had believed him, only she had listened more closely his warnings and explications, this would never have happened! What would never have happened? asked himself. yet, knew nothing what had actually occurred. Though appreciated their genuine and heartfelt concern, Mark and Dana were not much help. they hurried down one sterile hallway and then another like rats ochre-walled maze, a fearful Dana told Cody that had happened while she and Kelli were out shopping. The two women had been stocking Albertson’s market, laughing and chatting and having a nice afternoon; there was nothing amiss, nothing untoward, nothing indicate that either them was feeling anything unusual. And then suddenly a peculiar expression came over Kelli’s face; she stopped speaking midsentence, her eyes had rolled

back into her head, and she collapsed like a sack rain-soaked rice. Dana had managed catch her she fell, unable arrest her fall completely but least preventing her from cracking her skull the hard floor the supermarket. Unable revive her friend, she’d unashamedly begun screaming for help. The store manager called 911 and paramedics arrived with commendable speed. Dana had gone with Kelli the ambulance. soon they arrived the hospital, she’d called Mark. Unable more than pace the waiting room, unable reach Cody phone since he’d already left his office campus, they’d returned home await his arrival. “Where did happen Though was all torn inside, did his best fight down the nausea and despair that threatened overwhelm him. His people were supposed good that sort thing, but they hurried along the passageways all wanted was start bawling and throw . “I told you Dana was having trouble keeping with the two men, obliged break into little, short sprints from time time avoid falling behind. “ the market “, not that. Where the market? What section! What were you doing, what was Kelli doing, when she collapsed Distraught and concerned for her friend, his neighbor struggled recall. “ were shopping, just shopping She shook her head disbelief the remembrance. “ happened fast. were our way check out and Kelli stopped look some new ornamentals that had just come “Ornamentals Without breaking stride, Cody looked her sharply. “What kind ‘ornamentals’?” “You know Puzzled this line interrogation but too worried argue, Dana chose reply without questioning. “Houseplants. Ornamental houseplants “Live, dried any other time Dana would have wondered the seriousness with which Cody put the query her. “Alive, course. There were some pretty tropicals, some calatheas and a couple like them that I didn’t recognize. Lots coleus, course. Kelli thought they were all beautiful. She loves unusual things, you know, and With Mark leading the way, they rounded still another corner, brushing past nurses and candy stripers, meditative interns and the aimlessly ambling, dull-eyed relatives the ailing. “She touched one them, didn’t she Cody sounded more accusatory than intended. “One more. And then she went down “That’s right Having already explained what had happened, his neighbor was not surprised his reaction. Later, when she had time think about , she would wonder his uncharacteristic and seemingly unjustified vehemence. For now, though, she and her husband and their friend were adrift the acute emotions the moment. “Here are. Three-twenty. , Three twenty-two Why couldn’t the manufacturers hospital apparatus make their equipment silent, anxious, fearful Cody wondered followed Mark into the room. With all their high-tech skills, why did they have build devices that warbled horrid beeps and squeals? The information the machines provided was relayed monitoring screens the nurses’ station anyway. seemed that the sole purpose such familiar, seemingly innocuous sounds was terrify already apprehensive visitors the sickrooms friends and loved ones. caught his breath and his heart missed a beat Mark stepped aside reveal the full length the hospital bed. Suspended a sea milky white, the light his life lay unmoving beneath a thin layer eggshell sheets and pastel blankets, her hair haloed behind her head which was gently cradled oversized,

hypoallergenic pillow. Her complexion was wan and her eyes were closed, and thanked Manitou that she was breathing, albeit barely perceptibly, her own. Had her face been obscured a nest tubes and hoses was not sure could have handled . Moving the edge the bed, stood staring down his unmoving wife. Tears came easily, automatically, reached down pick her right hand. The unaccustomed unresponsiveness those small, strong fingers that under normal conditions pressed effortlessly and reassuringly into his own shocked him more than anything else. They lay immobile his cradling palm, warm but limp. “Coma Mark’s voice reached him from somewhere nearby, from a distant place that barely impacted Cody’s consciousness. “Some kind anaphylactic shock. I didn’t get talk the attending physician much. were a hurry get home could meet you Cody silently cried out for his brain work, his mouth function. “Did the doctor have any idea what might have brought this His friend shrugged, eloquently illustrating the helplessness felt. “ thought maybe she cut pricked herself one the plants, and that she had a violent allergic reaction. When Dana told the paramedics what had happened, that was their first thought, too. maybe there was exotic spider riding one the imports, and bit her when she was checking them out. They’re supposed have been running tests here His voice trailed away inconclusively. “ you want , we’ll outside, down the waiting room Taking her husband’s hand, Dana led him out the room and closed the door quietly behind them. When Cody did not turn speak otherwise acknowledge their departure, they were not offended. They understood, which the best thing good friends can . Left alone with his unforeseen, intimate disaster, Cody found couldn’t move. All could was stand his wife’s bedside and stare down her, the sheer force his gaze could somehow break the venomous spell that had overwhelmed her. She continued breathe easily her own, her chest rising and falling gently tissue a warm summer breeze. Unexpectedly, a soft moan escaped from her lips. Beneath the sheets, her body twisted, and her head fell toward him. The peaceful, unpained expression her face contorted something dug her, probing and disquieting, unsettling the trance into which she had fallen. The small, fist-sized head that welled from her throat was particularly ugly; a warty, leprous mass pustular knobs and protrusions. A single ichorous eye gazed unblinkingly Cody. Frozen mid-breath overwhelming rush fear and fury, could only twitch and jerk back slightly his eyes locked onto that pernicious, unwholesome gaze. And the abomination was not alone. A clutch barbed tendrils pushed and out her forearm. Reflexively, pulled his hand back they lashed his direction like many stinging anemones hunting undersea prey. Emerging from her ear like a snake sliding out its burrow was a banded length drab-toned alien corruption. Split into four sections, its nether end probed and felt its immediate surroundings. Each the four slender sections was lined with tiny, dark-stained teeth. These were designed for feeding; not material prosaic ordinary flesh, but something else. Something once less obvious and more vital. Interlopers. Several them, feeding his beloved. shape and state they were horrible any had yet encountered. didn’t even know what they consumed, much less have any insight into the process. For all that had learned, for all the arcane knowledge had studied and gleaned from the glyphs and carvings the longvanished Chachapoyans, felt were drowning a deep, dark well oily ignorance. Certainly, obviously, they were the cause his wife’s present condition. Despite his warnings and forgetting his admonitions, preoccupied with casual sociable chatter, she had made contact with a living plant, with several. least

one had been the abode insatiate, waiting Interloper. Apparently more than one. maybe she had caressed and inspected several tenanted plants before their incursions had taken full effect. Without knowing what they were doing her how they were doing , there was nothing could for Kelli. could not help, could not relieve, could not make her better. Nor could any traditional physician, matter how many elegantly gilded testimonials from prideful institutions advanced study hung the walls expensive offices filled with deep-pile carpet and soft music. Kelli was afflicted beyond the call modern medicine. known drug would alleviate her symptoms, conventional course treatment would restore the color her cheeks the brightness knew well her eyes. Was she going die? Lie a state living death until all the wondrous, vibrant life that sustained their love leaked out her, with neither him nor anyone else able stanch the seepage? would not allow ! Reaching down, swung with a vengeance the ghastly shapes that protruded, writhing and contorting, from her helpless form. They twisted his clenching fingers passed through them, fluttered briefly his fists battered the space but not the place they occupied. With mouths that bloated and shriveled, ballooned turgid proportions only swiftly metabolized, they mocked his futile efforts: moaning, whistling, enouncing measured, whispered tones that echoed with the icy indifference which they dwelled. Spicing the grisly, pianissimo chorus corruption that arose from his wife’s inert body was the faintest possible, barely perceptible insinuation distant, giggling laughter. could stand her side and fume powerlessly. could weep and whimper and bemoan her fate. could something. Return the university, bury himself his work never before, and try find a solution, not outright cure. Having had ample opportunity observe firsthand the effects infecting Interlopers a wide variety human beings, knew that their influence varied much their sizes and shapes. Whatever had struck down Kelli was more harmful than a recurring headache but less than the sudden urge leap off a bridge drive into oncoming traffic. long she lay a limbo their creation and grew worse, there was hope. She was stable, the attending physician informed him later. Her vitals were strong, from her heartbeat her blood pressure her subdued but regular respiration. Insofar could tell, she was immediate danger. But neither did she show any sign emerging from the comatose state into which she had inexplicably lapsed. —and they were still searching for possible cause, concentrating the plants she’d been browsing the market. Samples had been brought for analysis. Her blood was being minutely screened for indications sensitivity the relevant plant matter, and also for susceptibility a wide range insect and arachnid venoms. A distressed and distracted Cody listened with only half a mind. knew that the hospital lab’s search, however thorough and well-intentioned, would find nothing. Kelli had been bitten, all right. a consequence, she was infected something that their expensive and state--the-art equipment would not, could not, detect. already knew the source and the nature her infection. was dark when, exhausted, knew was time . she was any way all aware his presence, that any other visitor, she gave sign. Every time she had one her small, subdued episodes arching and grimacing ache shot through him painkiller could snuff. Those Who Abide were hurting her. Doing what her imprisoned psyche and self could not imagine. rose leave. Not because could longer stand seeing the mute agony her face, but because was clear that staying was doing her good all. Any answers, any succor for her condition, were found not her bedside but back his office and the archaeology department’s basement lab. had work. The hospital bustle that had greeted him earlier was this late hour much subdued; the ebb and flow

those employees and visitors and patients who remained was considerably reduced. Mark and Dana had long since departed, but not before making him promise that needed anything, anything all, was call them either home work, regardless the hour. was good have friends, told himself strode purposefully down the hall, even there was nothing they could . was all him now. All him. turned corners and traversed passageways until occurred him that might lost. was more irritated than angry. was the nature whoever was responsible for the planning hospitals construct them such a fashion make their interiors confusing possible for unknowing visitors. Theseus himself would not have been able follow the “simple instructions” that were commonly provided preoccupied visitors. indicate direction, large urban hospitals resorted strips colored tape affixed floors and walls, when what each visitor really needed was individual, hand-held GPS. Finding himself a comparatively busy corridor that looked exactly like the dozen corridors had already traversed, confronted a tall, preoccupied intern clad surgical greens. A cap covered his head and hair and a white mask hung from his neck. “Excuse . I’m lost, and I was wondering you could show the way out Despite his distress, Cody somehow managed a smile. “The way out The intern smiled. had a narrow but pleasant face accented a distinctively hawkish nose. “Most people use the Eighth Street exit Raising arm, pointed. “Keep straight that way and through the double doors. Turn the first right and you’ll see another set doors. There’s a security station the other side, and beyond that, the street “Straight, right, straight Cody repeated mechanically. “Thanks “You’re welcome The intern grinned widely. “ course, that’s the exit everyone else takes. For you, Coshocton Westcott, there exit. Not now. Not anymore Shocked out his suffering, Cody stumbled away from the intern’s glacial, slightly twisted smile. stared the other man, saw that his eyes were completely glazed over, like a window a particularly frosty morning. Small, many-legged creatures bulged the middle and translucent aspect milled about the surface his corneas— that general psychical vicinity. Somewhere behind those squalid, transient cataracts there lived a decent, caring, concerned medical professional. But the moment, his entire system, from eyes ears mouth, had been taken over and was under the tenacious control Interlopers unknown strength and number. One corner the man’s smile imploded, the parasitic aberrations fighting command his body were imperfect their understanding his motor functions, unable despite their skill and power operate the complex human machinery they had taken control with the same ease its evolutionary landlord. The left side the intern’s face hung slack, had suffered a serious stroke. rendered the ghastly grimace even more grotesque. Expression-wise, before Cody’s eyes the unfortunate intern metamorphosed into a cross between . Kildare and the Phantom the Opera. The archaeologist didn’t give a good goddamn what the man looked like. When spoke, knew was addressing anything but a bewildered apprentice physician. “What have you done wife “She sleeps The intern was weaving his feet now, caught the grip and manipulated purposeful nightmares. “Not dead but not alive The scornful sneer grew more contemptuous. “She become food Howling, Cody launched himself the other man. Veering away from the archeologist’s lunge with preternatural grace, the haunted physician whirled and sprinted down the hallway. Blind with rage, Cody pursued without stopping consider what would actually caught his tormentor. Whoever

actually was, the poor intern was not responsible either for his scornful words his taunting actions. Interlopers operated his muscles, his tongue, his palate, making clumsy use them convey their feelings terms a human could understand. Catch the man, tackle him, bring him down, and carry the confrontation further, and observant hospital personnel the vicinity might readily assume that the tall outsider was assaulting one their own. Cody would swarmed security officers, dragged off his inculpable quarry, and arrested. Little good could Kelli jail. None which penetrated his anger sufficiently slow him down. They passed a wide-eyed night nurse and a startled janitor, a grieving family their way out and a pair assistant administrators necking a phone alcove. The chase continued down a glut corridors that were new Cody. penetrated deeper and deeper into the hospital complex, encountered fewer residents, fewer people. struck the panting archaeologist that the overhead fluorescents were growing dimmer. The change was gradual hadn’t noticed first. Shifting his attention something other than the running man was chasing, saw that the reduced illumination was not a consequence his sharpening fatigue. The glow from the glass tubes overhead was markedly feebler. There was one else around. Come think , they hadn’t passed anyone quite a while. Where was ? infrequently visited service corridor might reasonably expected fitted out with subdued lighting, weaker bulbs being utilized save electricity. was being led the tip his anger into less prosaic regions that bordered not just the hospital complex, but reality itself? Coyotes would send out one their own, tongue lolling, prancing amicably, make friends with a neighborhood dog, simply irritate into defending its territory. The dog would track its wily relation into the hills out into the desert, where the rest the pack would waiting pounce and devour their domesticated cousin. Was following— being coerced? What, exactly, was accomplishing continuing this aimless chase, when could not even hope gain honest satisfaction eventually flailing away the body innocent man? The Interlopers lived this world—but they came from, they originated, somewhere else. What, found himself wondering slowed a stop, might that somewhere else like? Was above ground, below ground, under water? And more meaningfully for the moment, was a place that favored subdued lighting? Ahead him, his target had also halted and turned. A hand beckoned. “Think your wife-food, Coschocton Westcott! Have you propitiated your anger already “, Slowly, Cody began backing away. the man came after him, would fight. Though football player, the archaeologist was good size, and excellent condition thanks years digging and climbing. The possessed intern did not appear armed. Reversing direction, lurched unsteadily toward Cody. “You—were—warned. Not interfere. Not intervene. drop a certain line research. You are a clever man, Coschocton Westcott, but you cannot watch everywhere and everything once. Any human can reached, even one who can perceive. And cannot, others who are near him can made abide. You were warned The admonition echoed, burned his ears Cody turned and ran. “You were warned! Warned … warned … warned Was that the last turn they had made? Ducking clear the occasional low-hanging light fixture, avoiding the pipes and conduits that lined the walls and ceiling, ran , ignoring the strain his legs and the pounding his heart. found himself hungering for the sight another human being: a security guard reading a girlie mag, a bored nurse delivering nightly medications, a housekeeper pushing a

voluminous laundry cart—anything with a human face and eyes that were not windows into the depths horror. But there was one. Only the murky glow the oddly muted fluorescents, occasional rattle gurgle from one the pythonic pipes, and the steady slap-slap his shoes hitting the smooth concrete floor fled. The wholly manufactured nature his surroundings gave him hope. There were stones for him step , Interloper-inhabitable trees bushes for him bump into. they had been trying lure him into some nebulous border region where his soul and self would become more amenable their manipulations, they’d failed. had they? Wasn’t that the intersection wanted just ahead? Didn’t turn left there? slowed, hesitating. was right? Was the main corridor that led the reception area the right the left? Did they have him running circles? Were they watching and laughing, just waiting for him collapse from exhaustion, pass out, they could send dumb and deceived vassals like the unfortunate, unwitting intern fetch him back nether regions just this side the particular Hell they called home? His throat burned impulsively chose the left-hand corridor. Almost immediately, seemed the light ahead began brighten slightly. Enclosed walls concrete and plaster, paint and plastic, felt comparatively safe from direct assault. they were going get him, would have through the use deluded, victimized proxies. knew them too well, could see them too clearly. Only his rage what they had done Kelli had momentarily blinded him their propinquity. had taught him a valuable lesson, one would not repeat. Nothing, absolutely nothing, would cause him let his guard down ever again. was going restore his wife, would have stay clear their grasp. Not save himself, but save her. her current comatose state, how long could she tolerate their loathsome “feeding How much time did have? How much time did she have? Voices. heard voices. Following them, stumbled into a brightly lit hallway, nearly bowling over a sleepy, startled orderly lengthened his stride. Eyes both bemused and tired looked him sharply. The majority visitors seated the reception area ignored him. Breathing hard, perspiration pouring down his cheeks and neck soak his shirt collar, slowed a less conspicuous walk. Without pausing, ignoring the few stares, strode past them and out into the entryway atrium. From overbearing but sickly philodendron, grasping pseudopods reached for him. avoided them absently, almost contemptuously. There was sign the abiding intern whose taunts had led him a fool’s chase that, had not come his senses, might well have turned into a fatal one. Nor did expect see that poor, pitiable creature here, wandering about beneath bright lighting and energetic, healthy, uninfected people. Nothing intercepted him made his way the parking lot and his waiting car. The warm post-midnight air was alive with the sounds the city: cars accelerating, the occasional horn protesting, a distant siren wailing from some minor disaster, the muted night-subdued chatter visitors and employees entering leaving the hospital. There was that, and then there was the steady susurration spectral sniggering that had become his constant companion. was a little louder now, a little closer, uncomfortably familiar, insinuatingly intimate. shut down, refusing hear . became pervasive only granted permission. locked out just shut out everything his life save one overriding, all-important matter. had work and nothing, not Heaven Earth any -yet unknown regions tangent between, was going stop him.

Nine one thing was sure, one conclusion was already certain: needed help. Given enough time, felt could find any remedy, any solution Kelli’s condition that might exist— one existed. And one had exist. But had idea how much time had. Parasites usually tried keep their hosts alive, but the Interlopers could not compared the simple organic parasites familiar generations beginning biology students. Who knew what whims might drive Those Who Abide? had way knowing when her already weakened condition might fail, when her critical bodily functions might shut down one one. might have years which search for a cure— might have months. might have more than … threw himself into research with a fervor that astonished and troubled his colleagues and friends. They ascribed his sudden fanaticism a desire lose himself work order avoid having ponder his wife’s hapless condition twenty-four hours a day. Even the best intentioned them did not understand. could never put Kelli out his mind for more than hour. Kelli, Kelli—how did the Interlopers “feed What sustenance did they draw from a human being, comatose active? The abiding servant Uthu had spoken some form nutrition. was not physical, was, the effects were not visible detectable the usual means. knew how the Interlopers fed, might able find a way prevent them from feeding, poison them, some fashion, way, means, interfere with their living processes. his research, thorough was, was striking out a dozen different directions into the unknown. did not even know what was looking for, would recognize when found . only knew that his life, his happiness, his future, depended looking. needed help. But where begin searching for that? far knew, except for some long-dead Chachapoyan shamans, was the only human being uninfected the Interlopers who was aware their presence. seemed unlikely that among the billions and billions who populated the Earth there was one that singular position except him. Doubtless another, somewhere, whether accident design, was suffering from the same cursed knowledge and awareness. How find them, make contact, establish a rapport that they might help one another, least find companionship and common cause the fight against the empyreal bodydwelling parasitoids? Foolish made him feel, began searching the columns the daily paper under headings such Psychic Readings, Your Future Foretold, and Secrets the Ancients Revealed! (only $29.95 plus shipping and handling!). Unsurprisingly, there was nothing listed under “Interlopers” “Intruders” “Those Who Abide Follow-ups the ads quickly disabused him any notion that they might prove helpful, that the advertisers were anything but frauds , best, well-meaning quacks who had nothing offer. Most wanted money. was the same with the television spielers, those with 900 numbers that promised free consultations and readings. When tried talk about invisible creatures that fed something undefined within the bodies ordinarily unaware humans, the more adept individuals the other end the line consistently tried steer the conversation around whether Cody was married, whether loved his parents not, was having trouble work, his love life, sleeping, what his favorite television shows were, and more than once, what the numbers were his primary credit card (for reference purposes only The less skilled, that was not oxymoron the call- psychic hotline business, quickly dropped off-line when started talking about Interlopers that inhabited natural objects such trees and rocks. had expected nothing less, but felt bound try every possibility. Having thoroughly exhausted the exceedingly limited capabilities the more professional manifestations the country’s fascination with psychic silliness, moved more reputable sources. Researching the studies carried out and reported

the distinguished CSICOP organization and its venerable journal The Skeptical Inquirer saved him a good deal time allowing him quickly ferret out associations and groups that cloaked themselves a veneer scientific respectability. Reading about fraudulent individuals who had already been exposed allowed him concentrate those who had not yet been thoroughly investigated. More and more, found himself drawn police files and records. These, least, were full unexplained, seemingly irrational incidents. The postal clerk who arrives work one morning with automatic weapons the pockets his uniform, the “good kid” who suddenly and for apparent reason goes berserk and hacks his family death with axe, the preteens who gun down their teachers and schoolmates, the active athlete suddenly brought low a crippling disease alien his lineage: All these and more drew Cody’s attention his desperate search find something relevant his wife’s condition. many appalling incidents that defied rational explanation; they piled his office, filling the previously empty corners and overwhelming his neat desk and file cabinets and bookshelves. Tribal warfare the Balkans, endless misery Bangladesh, religious warfare the Middle East, a successful banker convicted murdering his -workers Zurich, a garbage collector from Des Moines committing suicide while vacation Colorado—all were components the unending, dismal, inexplicable liturgy dementia and irrationality that afflicted mankind. Nor was anything new, Cody knew. had ever been , throughout human history. could not help but wonder how much the gloomy record misery and wretchedness was accumulating was inescapable, and how much due the presence and interference human affairs the still mysterious aggressors whose hapless hosts referred them Those Who Abide. Were they evenly spread throughout human civilization, were there regions where they thrived and others where they were scarce? What percentage the population Northern Ireland was infected? What Russia and the Congo, India and southern Mexico? Was the bulk Polynesia relatively infection-free and that downtown Washington D.C. otherwise? Gradually began build a picture human history that owed much, not more, the possible intervention the Interlopers than the exercise human logic and free will. Contemporary affairs were only the tip the metaphysical iceberg. The present had monopoly the inexplicable. Decisions that had been made since the beginning recorded time now viewed through the lens a new awareness. Perception granted him a unique perspective. What was really behind the burning the great library Alexandria? Did its thousands scrolls containing the collected knowledge the ancients include among them the formula for a potion similar that which had been discovered independently the Chachapoyans? What actually caused the decline and fall Rome and the end the wondrous Pax Romana that had kept comparative peace Europe for some five hundred years? How did Genghis Khan and his successors really manage defeat the combined forces nearly half the known world? Did have unknown, unseen allies that sowed confusion and dissension among his adversaries expectation the mass murder and devastation that would follow? Every significant human event that confounded reasonable, intelligent thought had viewed this new light. was terrible for Cody think that might the only one with his finger the “view” switch. Without incontrovertible proof, one would listen him, ponder his theories, make effort substantiate his reasoning. The revision human history would have wait, decided. What mattered now was Kelli. His immediate efforts must directed toward saving his wife. there was anyone else like him out there, they might very well have already traveled down the same desperate path seeking was currently following. What would they next? How could a poor farmer Pakistan make contact with a kindred spirit Paris? How might a hunter-gatherer Papua New Guinea

exchange knowledge and observations with a gem miner Minas Gerais? How could archaeologist Arizona hope find a fellow perceiver Antigua? Newspaper ads seemed the most likely place start. commenced a comprehensive search the personals every paper could get his hands . that regard, was more than a little helpful have full access the university library. His telephone bill skyrocketed placed regular, hopeful calls across the country and the far ends the earth. The responses gleaned varied from the absurd the outright deranged. less than a month had personally held conversations with more psychotics and genuinely disturbed people that the psychiatric outpatient center his wife’s hospital dealt with a year. Not one them, not even the hundred calls placed various locales Southern California, contained iota useful information. Only when felt had exhausted the more traditional resource newspaper ads did turn wholeheartedly the Internet. Anyone could place a newspaper , but not everyone had access the Net. While maintaining the steady flow newspapers his home and office, began spend more and more time accessing search engines and composing his own eclectic messages posted many bulletin boards could manage. The result was a flood information that threatened inundate the computer his office and the two and Kelli kept home. bought and added more hard drive storage than a small business server would need, spending money didn’t have install a full-scale designated server his den. Additional research eventually enabled him import filtering software that screened out a great deal the electronic chaff, winnowing out what was irrelevant had time skim the articles absolutely felt could not ignore. learned a great deal, absorbed enormous amount pertinent material, and built the most powerful antispam firewall possible fend off the resultant flood E-mail requests for, yes, his credit card number and free opportunities consult 900 numbers. Kelli’s condition seemed worsen slightly, his melancholy and discouragement grew. The abundance cybercrap was different from what had previously encountered its traditional print-and-paper counterparts. answered much the material that flowed his computer and mailbox time and money would allow. stopped shaving and lost weight despite Mark and Dana’s goodhearted attempts have him over for dinner often possible. His work school suffered noticeably, with lectures skipped, papers left unread, and a dearth publication the professional journals that had come expect regular contributions from him and his wife. Only his semi-celebrity status within the field the interpreter the Chachapoyan codex allowed him retain his position the university, tenure notwithstanding. didn’t know what except keep digging, both into the Chachapoyan glyphs and the deluge irrelevant, often unintelligible material that flooded his home and office. also had deal with would- hopefuls person, though this was infrequent. psychic search service was going send personnel their own expense try and induce him retain their services. metaphysical detective living North Platte was going pay his her own way fly down and visit him. Where confident, self-assured astrologers and soul dowsers and inventors devices for seeing into the other world were concerned, a lack willingness Cody’s part commit money their diverse enterprises was usually a sure means terminating further dialogue. was somewhat surprised answer the door one Saturday morning find standing the walkway front the steps a small, unassuming, elderly gentleman nattily decked out pin-striped suit complete with bow tie and hat. Brushing his long and currently unwashed black hair back off his forehead, Cody gazed his latest visitor out tired, aching eyes beneath which premature bags had begun form. The little man won points for neatness, anyway. near Cody could tell this early the morning, his visitor was unpolluted and therefore not another minion the Interlopers. Nothing untoward abided within him, except perhaps a tendency stare without blinking. Not that was any saner than the

multitude mostly well-meaning nuts who had preceded him. The furled black umbrella was leaning , not jauntily but actually might need the support, was proof enough that. Only those who had choice the matter wore suits and ties Phoenix late September, and nobody actually carried umbrellas. Overhead, the intensifying sky was a flat sheet blue from which heat radiated like the flame a gas stove. But the bow tie was a nice touch, Cody had admit. And the umbrella was less threatening than some the objects the more disturbed his recent visitors had carried with them. Though his profession had given him some experience reckoning individual’s ethnic background, couldn’t quite place the man standing before him. was fair-complexioned but not Nordic, with fine features and slightly oversized ears. Feminine, even. Nor did look particularly Slavic. might well have been Romany save that his skin was really too light. His ancestry remained a mystery. From beneath the expensive fedora, which boasted what looked like a small fly-whisk tucked neatly into the hatband the left side, emerged white, slightly curly hair that places still showed insinuations blond. His appearance suggested someone who did not lack for money, but who was not conspicuously wealthy, either. Cody sighed. Those charlatans who put a good front usually waited least half hour before making the first practiced request for funds. “Can I help you had learned polite instead churlish even when confronted visitors who invariably wasted his precious time. There was enough woe the world without his having add . would not the Interlopers’ work for them. The dapper visitor smiled, displaying what appeared all his own teeth, with the exception one that was conspicuously and unapologetically gold. flashed the morning light. “Vielleicht replied. “Perhaps His accent was strong, and quite different from what Cody might have expected. German, decided immediately. Which meant that his visitor might equally from Germany, Austria, Switzerland. Chicago. anywhere, including the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. “ I who may able help you, Herr Westcott Raising the umbrella, gestured slightly with the tip. “Might I come ? very hot out here, much more than I used Not from Phoenix, then. Cody hesitated, then sighed and stepped aside. least this one was wellgroomed and didn’t smell. “Come , then. You’ve got five minutes convince you can anything for The man nodded and walked with measured stride past the far younger, much taller archaeologist. Cody led him the den, noted that his visitor’s eyes were never rest. They were constant motion, darting from left right, searching, hunting. A quintessential characteristic the paranoid, knew. Four minutes left. had work and time waste today coddling the deranged fantasies even well-dressed eccentrics. directed the man toward the one chair that was not buried beneath piles printouts, stationery, books, magazine excerpts, and letters both opened and still sealed. “Everyone calls Cody. Professor Westcott Settling himself the empty chair, his eyes still flicking from place point rested both hands the end his umbrella, Cody’s elderly guest smiled politely. “Very good meet you, Herr Professor. I Karl Heinrich Oelefsenten von Eichstatt. You may call Oelefse Leaning against shelves overflowing with papers, Cody crossed his arms and frowned. “The Oelefse part doesn’t strike fitting with the rest The fedora bobbed, head and hat performing odd little miniscule nod. “That name was a gift from someone else I was able help. Many have gifted names addition those given birth -, Cody thought. Making effort disguise the direction his glance, peered meaningfully his watch.

“You don’t have much time left. Where are you from? L.A San Francisco There was a sizable Germanspeaking community the city the Bay, knew. For old man, the visitor’s tone was steely, “ you keep asking questions, Herr Professor Cody, I will not have time explain how I may able help you. I have come from Heidelberg Cody lowered his arms. “Pennsylvania “Germany A little more than one minute left. Already, the archaeologist’s thoughts were jumping ahead, the work he’d been doing before the doorbell had disturbed him. nut was going come all the way from Germany Arizona indulge his fantasies, not even one with money. hoped the old boy wouldn’t put a fuss when was time for Cody show him the door. “You expect believe that you’ve come all the way from Germany, your own expense, just help , a stranger you’ve never met “ course. saw your plea the Net. And I did not come own expense. The Society paid way Definitely time , Cody decided. “Well, that’s very thoughtful you, Oelefse. And I truly appreciate . But I’m very busy and there’s a lot I want still today Standing away from the shelves, gestured toward the hall that led the front door. “I hope you enjoy your visit Arizona The old man made move rise. “You not believe , young mister Cody “Now, now, did I say that The archaeologist plastered a big, fat, fake grin his face. He’d been down this road with others Oelefse’s ilk, many times before, and had formulated a routine for dealing with them. The important thing was remain calm, and friendly, and sympathetic their beliefs. “You’re not going give any trouble, are you? Because I really busy “Verdammt, you think you are the only one? The only person who troubled Those Who Abide “, course not Cody was already halfway down the hall. glanced back his visitor. “I’m just one the busiest ones His visitor sighed. “Two blocks from here there artificial cataract that decorates the entrance this neighborhood. has a big sign the bottom and constructed native stone Small, intense blue eyes locked Cody’s. “Presently, home not less than two and not more than four Interlopers, least two different types Cody stopped walking toward the front door. Pivoting sharply, returned the den. “How you know that His visitor was right, course. Cody saw those particular Interlopers every time drove past the waterfall. “I see them, course. Your house, the way, clean “Yes, I know Hastily shoveling papers out another chair, sat down opposite his visitor, whom was now seeing entirely new light. Could that the man’s inner strength, his tone voice, his selfpossession, were not manifestations madness, but something else? “The question , how you know “I told you. I can see them. Anyone who belongs the Society must able perceive Cody swallowed. was too unsettled polite. “You’re from Germany and you belong organization that’s aware Those Who Abide His visitor took the archaeologist’s astonishment stride, exactly was something had encountered before. “The translation German different. Why should you surprised? have had more than our share

troubles with Those Who Abide Cody found himself nodding slowly, aware that had gone from cool skepticism grudging acceptance his visitor’s legitimacy. “That would explain a lot “There are many explanations awaiting you, young friend. Not everyone a mind sufficiently open accept them “, I’ll accept them, all right Cody spoke with feeling. “I’ll accept anything that might help Kelli “ , your wife Oelefse was nodding slowly himself. “From the description accompanying your entreaty, a most unfortunate, but hardly unique case. You made quite clear anyone capable reading between the lines that she has been infected. I truly sorry Ashamed the way had treated his visitor, Cody now strove make amends. “Look, I’m sorry I was a little abrupt with you first. You have understand that the course trying get help for Kelli, I’ve had deal with a lot people who were pretty shaky upstairs “I not offended, Cody Raising the umbrella, the elderly German pointed toward the other end the house. “You will now offer something eat and drink. Nothing too heavy, please, and tea would nice Cody immediately started toward the kitchen. “Coming from Europe, I would’ve thought you’d prefer coffee “I would Oelefse conceded, “ I could find American who knew how make . Tea will fine Rummaging through the filthy, half-abandoned kitchen, the archaeologist managed find both tea bags and a box cookies that was not too far past the expiration date stamped the wrapping. When the tea was ready, brought and the accompaniments into the den, find his visitor blithely reading through a stack magazines. “Nothing any those Cody put the tray down atop the pile books that concealed the coffee table. “Sugar “I will help myself Putting the magazines aside, Oelefse resumed his seat. His manner preparing his tea was precise everything else about him, his movements almost dainty. ate and drank with the air impoverished aristocrat. “Nothing for you, friend “? , yeah Revisiting the kitchen, the archaeologist returned with open beer. This used salute his guest. “ your health “Prosit The elderly gentleman gestured slightly with his cup tea. “You Americans not know how make beer, either “I hereby apologize advance for all country’s deficiencies Cody struggled rein his impatience. “How can you help Kelli “First I must see her. your communication you stated that she lies a comatose state Cody nodded. “She breathes her own, and she’s getting fluids and sustenance intravenously. Her body seems processing everything properly, but her blood pressure lately has been trending downward bit back the lump his throat. “The doctors try reassuring, but I can see that they aren’t hopeful “Why should they Oelefse spoke with unconscious coldness. “They cannot know what wrong with her. I must see her “ course, course The surge hope that Cody felt nearly caused him drop the perspiring bottle was holding. “Can you anything for her? there a pill, some kind injection

“Diagnosis first, then prognosis, then treatment. such viable Hope evaporated quickly had materialized. “What you mean, ‘’?” “I will not lie you, Cody Westcott. The Society has time for comforting prevarications Blue eyes narrowed him over the rim the teacup. “Those Who Abide vary enormously their ability affect human health. Not much the physical aspects the mental. Your wife might emerge from her coma— changed Cody’s lips tightened. “Changed how Oelefse sipped delicately. Steam rising from the cup curled over the bridge his nose. “Her memory may damaged. She may feel differently about certain things. She may feel differently about you “I’ll take that chance The archaeologist knocked back a long swallow. “There may other kinds impairment. Her sanity may damaged “Just bring her out the coma. I’ll deal with whatever consequences arise “Will you? You are nothing not confident. That good. You are going need all the confidence you can muster, friend, are have any chance saving your wife. Now then: I not suppose you can identify the Interloper, Interlopers, who have come abide your mate’s body “I don’t know names for any them, that’s what you mean. I suppose this Society yours does Oelefse smoothly poured himself a second cup tea, emptying the small pot Cody had prepared. “Over time, one learns put names things. the human way. The Society very old, and the litany Interlopers quite long “How long Cody prompted his visitor. “How many different kinds are there? I know that I’ve seen dozens “There are thousands different types the German told him quietly. “And they number the millions. They have afflicted mankind since the beginning time. Some say they came down from the trees with . for the Society, archaeologist you would know the ten- fourteen-thousand-year-old cave paintings from Lascaux France and Altamira Spain Cody nodded. “They show bisons and cave bears and lions living beside humans Neolithic Europe “And Interlopers Oelefse smiled the younger man’s startled reaction. “, they too are depicted those same ochre-stained walls. What appears abstract incomplete the average anthropologist perfectly obvious those who know what are looking . Australia there are similar ancient paintings, and also Damaraland southwest Africa. Primitive peoples knew the Interlopers, but that does not mean they knew how fight them. Some did, and survived. Others did not, and perished beneath the weight their own ignorance. have records such vanished peoples Blue eyes twinkled. “Heidelberg has been a repository such knowledge for thousands years. Not for nothing has been the intellectual center Germany “And yet spite all that knowledge, you suffered Kaisers, and Hitler His visitor took offense. “The stronger resistance Those Who Abide, the more energetically they strive locate and obliterate its source. Germany has suffered more than most from their depredations. Why you imagine that Heidelberg was spared the devastation that consumed country during the Second World War? Why you suppose that Rothenburg--den-Tauber, the best preserved medieval town Germany, was spared destruction towards the end the war? was because the general commanding the American forces that area knew a centuries-old center resistance the Interlopers, was a member the

Society, and interceded see that was not bombarded. the great punishment museum Rothenburg there are devices for restricting the movement Interlopers, and those people who were afflicted them smiled knowingly. “Their true function has never been divined Draining the last the beer, which not his visitor’s Continental standards was still satisfying him, Cody considered opening a second. “I know from own work that the Interlopers are not a new phenomenon “Indeed. You worry about the abiding that has paralyzed your wife. Your immediate concern , understandably, personal. contrast, the Society have charged ourselves worry about entire countries, whole governments. Consider, young friend Oelefse enjoined his host, “human history. You are better placed than most . Contemplate the lapses reason, the irrationality important decisions, the insanity many mankind’s actions. a species, think, analyze, are capable the most abstruse logic, and yet often choose act a collective manner that embarrassing our simian predecessors. Why that? simply our nature, our fate, stumble and bumble about like blobs mindless protoplasm with more sense than a colony clams? are there other forces work, other influences that lie beyond the collective cognizance the great mass humanity Cody badly wanted another beer, but found himself transfixed the oldster’s words. “The Interlopers. Yeah, I’ve thought about His visitor leaned back slightly the chair. Outside, the late summer sun baked backyard and city and the desert that surrounded . “Their influence not absolute, but the single most important factor mankind’s lack advancement. Where should forging ahead a bright and brilliant future, instead trip and flounder and sometimes even fall. Because Those Who Abide. The world wars you alluded , the Dark Ages, Africa today: All are the consequence severe Interloper activity. These things the Society pledged fight Oelefse’s smile was warm. “When can, when seems feasible, and when one can spared from greater concerns, even help individuals “I’m more grateful than I can say Cody felt overwhelming sense gratitude even though Oelefse had yet anything for Kelli. Just the older man’s presence, the revelation that the archaeologist was not alone the world his ability perceive the infectious horrors that had struck down his wife, had a consoling effect. “ these creatures affect not just individuals, but the course human events “. one the Sighted, you must made aware the bigger picture, you Americans say. assumed and colleagues that you acquired this competence the course your professional work “There was a formula for a potion. Working together, a friend mine and I prepared . I drank some, didn’t. died before could sample the results his own handiwork. The Interlopers killed him. arranged events that would die “I sorry. passed away a good cause and good company. Famous company, which you will learn about due course. a member the Society, you will have access a store knowledge vaster than your dreams Cody hesitated. “Member? I have undergo some kind initiation something Oelefse laughed softly. “You are already a member, friend. Anyone who can perceive, anyone who Sighted, automatically . Willkommen—welcome “Thanks—I guess glanced his watch. Far more than the five minutes had intended grant his guest had expired. “ Those Who Abide affect the course human events. How? And why? Why should they care what how human society evolves “I should think you would have grasped that now, Cody The old man carefully set his cup aside. His gaze was hard his voice. “, everything, has with how they feed—and what they feed upon

Ten The archaeologist was silent for a long moment, contemplating questions wasn’t sure wanted answered, knowing that wanted help his wife had choice but hear them. “That—that was one main questions. I know has something with human unhappiness “Truly does Oelefse shifted the chair. “Tell , friend: Have you ever felt ill without knowing the source? Irritable, angry for discernible reason, upset with a moment life that was really minor consequence? Have you ever yelled others only wonder why afterwards? Hurt another person for good cause? Suffered from headaches that pill would alleviate, such migraines that seemed materialize without cause? Acted irrational fashion that left you feeling later you had been acting a dream “Who hasn’t was all Cody could think say. “Who indeed? Most the time, such behavior can traced natural causes. But sometimes cannot. The most severe examples arise from roots beyond the ability medical science detect. Though not beyond that modern physics. How your knowledge subatomic particles The change subject took Cody aback. “Pretty limited. There’s not much call for archaeology, except for those who specialize dating “I will not into details. Those Who Abide are detectable devices that measure such things, but who search them out and confront them cannot carry particle accelerators around with Unexpectedly, grinned. “They will not fit even a German car. “Different kinds Interlopers induce different reactions. What they feed upon, what they derive from their incognizant human hosts, misery. Unhappiness, despair, grief; these are all powerful emotions that generate particular sets electrical impulses the brain. near have been able determine, this what the Interlopers feed upon. The greater the distress, the more extreme the anguish, the more food there for Those Who Abide His voice fell slightly. “ any wonder that they would revel, and multiply, and thrive, during a war, a period widespread misery human history such the Dark Ages, the time the Black Plague “But that’s when their human hosts would perish the greatest numbers Cody considered the ramifications. “That doesn’t make any sense “The only time Interloper can move from one human another when the original host dies. times great crisis, people are always being buried. For the Interlopers, transfer then becomes a matter picking and choosing among many potential new hosts, not finding one. “ the same time, while they are feeding, they can sometimes control more than their host’s emotions. Surely you have now encountered evidence this adaptation Cody remembered: the auto accidents had observed, people happy one moment and fighting the next, parents berating bewildered children: all evidence the malicious intervention hungry Interlopers. “ they don’t just feed negative emotions; they actually stimulate them Oelefse nodded somberly. “Just certain ant species stimulate aphids secrete a sugary nectar for the ants feed upon. Those Who Abide are cattle. Desolation and misery are their crops, which they

cultivate wherever and whenever they can. A headache a snack, a marital row a meal, emotional disintegration a dessert. The great causes mass human suffering such epidemics, natural catastrophes, and especially war, are banquets: troughs despair which they wallow ecstatically “And there’s nothing can about Overwhelmed the dismal revelations his guest, Cody would have slumped dejectedly, not for the realization that might serve excite and attract any Interlopers the immediate vicinity. wonder the restorative properties humor were always being lauded physicians. A joyful individual would present a dearth nourishment Interloper. “ the contrary, young friend. can fight Oelefse told him. “ the Society have being doing for millennia. there was resistance, civilization know would even worse off today than . What progress a species have made a consequence not fatalistic acquiescence, but a will resist wagged admonishing finger the despondent younger man. “Laughter, friend, a powerful weapon. the Interlopers what insecticide bugs. While cannot cure infestation, can help ward one off mitigate its consequences. Remember that always “That’s ? All can fight these things with are jokes “There are other means. there were not, there would little hope. The members the Society have calculated that were not for the Interlopers, civilization would least a thousand years more advanced than now. would long ago have seen end the kind tribal warfare that roils the Balkans and the Caucasus, Africa and the Middle East. would done with fossil fuels and their attendant pollution, and would long ago have settled the other worlds our solar system, not those other stars. Always, the Interlopers are there, holding back, eagerly abetting our worst instincts. Every time seems that are ready spring forward, there inexplicable, seemingly unavoidable war, a new crisis over something stupid money, territory, religion, that holds back. a new plague rears its microbial head, its spread facilitated zealous Interlopers His gaze narrowed, and there was nothing the senile about . “The new drug-resistant tuberculosis, chloroquine- and fansidar-resistant forms malaria, mutated kinds venereal disease: All have Those Who Abide thank for their rapid spread, not their origins. And then there AIDS. All this addition the ubiquitous scourge cancer. Those Who Abide, a suffering human a fertile field. The person who coined the English phrase ‘misery loves company’ had idea what kind company was describing. “ the moment live one the more comparatively peaceful, sane periods recent centuries. has been a protracted, enduring struggle, but human science slowly coming grips with the effects Interlopers can induce, even while remaining ignorant the true cause. a result, Those Who Abide are restless. They are building toward another great catastrophe hopes throwing back, casting once again down into the Pit. The development worldwide communications potentially a boon their destructive efforts, allowing them reach much greater numbers people simultaneously. The Society fighting this where and when can. “Because a new international crisis approaches, there was some debate over whether services should spared help you with your purely personal concerns “I see Cody replied quietly. “Why did you—the Society—decide help “Because you are valuable, Coschocton Westcott. the cause. Not only are you Sighted, but your field one which expertise always needed and not often found The archaeologist eyed his visitor evenly. “And I was a plumber, insurance salesman, a broker, you would not here today, because I would have nothing offer the Society The older man’s lengthy pause was eloquent. “Our resources are limited, earnest young friend. They

must deployed daily the service all mankind. cannot win every individual battle, but must win the war. Otherwise, are doomed dwell forever the depths our own despair. Sadly, great conflicts the civilians who invariably suffer the most. I a soldier. You, like not, because your abilities and skills, now also become a soldier Cody did not feel especially martial. “Sounds like what you need this clash not archaeologists, but army comedy writers His guest smiled, the one gold tooth gleaming brightly. “What makes you think they are not counted among the ranks the Society? Their aggregate small but significant, and their influence out proportion their number. Every day they wage war behalf those who would dominated the Interlopers. Often they win, sometimes they lose. you wish gauge their ability, you should watch more television comedy. you , consider how many terrible programs are broadcast, and how many good ones inexplicably fall the wayside. Consider how programming decisions are made executives with experience professional comedy, little sense humor, and the inability understand any witticism more complex than the writing the walls a public restroom. Unable stand the therapeutic effects human laughter, Those Who Abide are particularly keen infect and dominate network programming executives and their ilk. This holds true the rest the world much does America, though because the influence and pervasiveness your television programs, Those Who Abide are particularly active your industry Remembering some the hideous excuses for sitcoms and Kelli had suffered through during the past year, Cody could well believe what his guest was telling him. “You said there were other things besides laughter that could used fight these predators. Can any them used help wife Cody inhaled deeply, his mind already made . “ you can anything for her, anything all, then I’m yours. I’ll resign position the university, research for you, let you guide entire future. I’ll anything, anything you want. I’ll even move Heidelberg Oelefse raised a hand calm him. “That will not necessary, friend—though you would like Heidelberg. The Society already strong there. Where need assistance elsewhere. helping your unfortunate mate, course action can prescribed until the severity her condition has been ascertained and her prospects for treatment have been appraised Setting the empty teacup aside, rose from his chair. For a moment, towered over the seated archaeologist, and not only physically. “Believe , friend, I understand what you are feeling. a terrible thing watch a loved one’s life slip away, see them drown anguish not their own making. Depression can kill surely any heart attack. the cancer the mind. I know, because I have seen happened too many times His voice shook ever slightly seemed suddenly looking not Cody, but past him, a distant place and time. “The first time, was wife. Then was children. A little girl, beautiful she was, with golden hair and dancing eyes. boy lived longer, but died just the same. Driven throw himself over a precipice the Alps. I never understood, never knew why I had been singled out for much unhappiness. The Society found . They saved from the Interlopers who had bled family emotionally dry and then discarded them the way a spider discards the empty husk insect has finished feeding upon. They cured , and tutored , and allowed learn straightened. “Now, and for many years, I have been a soldier the Society. When and where both possible and feasible, I perform the same service for others that the Society performed for . They gave back life, a reason living. goal the same theirs: disrupting the machinations Those Who Abide, helping the unwitting who suffer from their afflictions, and striving for their eventual and complete extermination A thin smile creased his mouth. “The Interlopers can sense these things, friend. They not like , and they not like . They hate anyone who can perceive them Once more, his eyes met Cody’s. “They hate

you The archaeologist did not flinch. “The feeling’s mutual “Good Reaching forward, the older man put a firm hand Cody’s shoulder. “But manifest your antipathy laughter, and laugh them. Hatred they can deal with. Laughter—laughter drives them into a frenzy. They have way fight . Laugh long and hard enough, even yourself, and you can drive off any Interloper. That one way fight them stepped back. “Now come, young friend, and will see what can done for your wife Snatching his car keys and wallet, Cody followed the elderly German out into the hall. “Tell , Oelefse: You say that you’re a soldier now. A soldier the Society. What were you before—before The older man didn’t hesitate. “Before family was taken from ? Before former life was destroyed? I was a physicist, young Cody. I worked much the year Switzerland, the CERN supercollider facility Bern. There are a number physicists the Society. are always arguing with the biologists among . One the great questions that consumes whether the Interlopers are composed waves particles, a combination thereof “What’s the prevailing opinion They were approaching the front door. “That does not matter Oelefse told him, “ long they can made die For the first time many weeks, Cody allowed himself a small surge hope. “Then they can killed. laughing them “Laughter a means defense, not attack. can drive them away, but sustaining honest, effective laughter long enough kill even a small Interloper nearly impossible “I guess the safest people the world would professional comedians Before opening the door, Cody armed the -house alarm system. His visitor watched with interest. “ the contrary, there are many such who suffer from the attentions Those Who Abide. Professional comedians are among the most unhappy, morose, melancholy inhabitants the planet. Where you think professional humor comes from, anyway? From a lifetime fighting off the effects Interlopers. Funny painful, young friend “Then there are other ways kill them. You indicated much Oelefse patted his jacket. Was that a bulge where inside pocket might ? “, not a gun grinned the archaeologist. “The Interlopers are patterns otherworldliness. Generating and projecting the right electromagnetic field can play havoc with such patterns. depends the Interloper. The atrix not a panacea, but long years development have gone into its manufacture wagged a finger Cody. “Solidstate physics, advanced chip masking technology, even the development smaller and smaller batteries have made such devices possible. Those Who Abide fear them, and their improvement. any wonder they strive thrust the world into another crisis, whether through disease politics? For example, you cannot imagine how many important people are presently afflicted India and Pakistan “How can you prevent adverse events from taking place halfway around the world “The Society has operatives everywhere. Sometimes are successful, such Peru and Ecuador. Sometimes are too late, the Congo. fight because must. Mankind has come too far, reached too lofty a height, collapse under the weight another great plague war. Science abets our work, but knowledge our armor Cody hesitated with one hand the door handle. “ you have a device that can kill Those Who Abide, why not mass-manufacture , hand thousands them out a Society-inspired army, and kill every last

Interloper “ not easy, friend. The atrix and its companion devices are not easy use. Teaching others how calibrate one takes time. And they are not always effective His expression darkened. “There some concern that the Interlopers may have the power rapid mutation that found insects and smaller creatures: the ability evolve defenses against new forms attack, has happened over the years with malaria and other diseases. Employ the atrix too much and too often, for example, and the risk run rendering Those Who Abide immune its effects. must move carefully. “For now, our principal concerns are further research, preserving civilization—and helping your wife A broad smile creased his face. “They say that the last shall first. Excuse Stepping front Cody, the old man took the handle and opened the door very slightly. stood peering out, Cody wondered his caution. “ you’re looking for Interlopers, I check the neighborhood every morning. Except for the ones that are resident the stones that artificial waterfall you saw your way , this area clean “ Oelefse did not look from his examination. “You bet Cody assured him. “They can’t move around their own. They need A sudden thought made him hesitate. “ that what you’re looking for “ young friend, I have already told you how they have influenced the course human history its detriment afflicting important players throughout time. What makes you think anything has changed? Cody was instantly guard. “What—what Oelefse stepped aside. “See for yourself. The far street, around the corner. A white sedan domestic manufacture. There are two men sitting the front, both wearing dark suits The archaeologist located the car and noted its occupants. “Infected His guest nodded. “How can you certain “What fools wear dark suits the desert late summer Cody eyed the older man significantly. “How I know that they’re not the representatives this Society you speak , and you’re not infected, manipulated decoy sent lure out the house Oelefse spread his arms wide. “You are Sighted, young friend. you detect person any evidence infestation Though was not necessary and really made difference, executed a slow, theatrical pirouette. was still smiling. “Okay, they’re the bad guys and you’re not. That still doesn’t explain why you’re dressed impractically they are Oelefse made a show adjusting his bow tie. “I take great pride appearance, Cody Westcott. a good sign that someone not afflicted. Those who suffer from the debilitating, gnawing presence Interlopers rarely take any care with their bearing attire “ the well-dressed are unpolluted “Usually. Remember that, where Interloper presence concerned, nothing for certain. But the two that car, they have about them a certain aspect that detectable even a distance. Experience enables one recognize such signs. They are minions the Interlopers, their actions and activities directed Those Who Abide within them. Such constant control difficult for the Interlopers sustain without damaging the host “Uthu Cody muttered. More loudly added, “I’ve already encountered one who’s been damaged. came

warn stop research. That was before swallowed hardbefore Kelli was infected Oelefse’s expression was somber. “They have sense mercy, you know. They will feed upon young children readily adult. They devour misery the way you would a good dinner. Can you remember anything distinctive about the person who came see you “ isn’t either one the two men that car, that’s what you mean. What

now

“? take car, Cody, and help your wife. But first, make a little detour winked mischievously. “ takes time for the Interlopers impose their will even hosts they control thoroughly. Reaction time slowed. the other hand, there nothing wrong with reflexes Stepping through the open door, headed down the winding path that led the driveway and the silver Mercedes parked there. “Have you ever been Germany, young friend “ Cody tried hard not look the direction the white sedan parked around the far corner. “! Then you have never been the Autobahn Walking around the front the car, Oelefse used a small remote unlock the doors. “I honestly not know how you Americans manage get anywhere your cars, with these frivolous speed limits yours “Frivolous speed limits Cody slid into the seat the passenger side, unaware that the thirty minutes follow would learn more about reaction times than really wanted know. “Which way the hospital where your wife being looked after Looking determined, Oelefse slowed a halt the stop sign where the last neighborhood street met the first main thoroughfare. “Turn left here and head due north “. Then will this way Turning sharply the opposite direction, the elderly German pulled out directly into traffic flowing past less than fifty miles per hour. “Jesus Cody flinched a big van swerved miss them and irate woman a small Cadillac mouthed angry words from within its tinted window, air-conditioned interior. “Remember, friend Cody’s seasoned driver reminded him, “that while the Interlopers cannot killed normal means, their human hosts can they sped without slowing through a double lane change, Cody forced himself consider his wife’s condition unemotionally possible. “Then the ones inhabiting Kelli won’t let her die, because that would mean they would trapping themselves a lifeless, useless body—unless they can make sufficient contact with another motile form “That probably true for a little while, least. They will conspire sustain her the edge life that they can continue feed off her enduring suffering. Only when they have had enough will they allow her expire a final orgy feeding Seeing the stricken look his companion’s face, added, “I sorry speak bluntly, friend, but while there ample room for compassion the Society, there neither time nor space for convenient euphemism. But not worry: will our best save your Frau “ ‘Our best’ Cody turned sideways the seat, fighting ignore the seeming indifference with which Oelefse was weaving crazily through traffic. “Where the Interlopers are concerned, nothing absolute, nothing for certain The older man’s tone was unyielding and unrepentant. “ I told you, I myself have lost loved ones Those Who Abide. I will attend your wife she was own. More than that I cannot “I—I’m sorry Overwhelming emotion welled the distressed archaeologist sat back his seat. “I know —you’ll everything you can. It’s just that these past weeks have been harder than anything I ever imagined. You know, you joke with someone every day, argue with them, share food and fun and work

and sleep with them, and you don’t think about . You just accept . Until suddenly they’re not there anymore “That has been life for many years now, friend With the skill a Grand Prix driver Oelefse eased the big car around a pair convoying big rigs. “All you can channel those emotions into useful avenues endeavor. Frustrating Interlopers, for example His gaze flicked the rearview mirror. “Are they still following “Following…?” Whirling his seat, Cody stared out the back window. For instant, the traffic was devoid menace. Then a white sedan hove into view, swinging out from behind the same pair trucks the Mercedes had just passed. “I wasn’t thinking, I was—yeah, they’re still behind squinted. “I’m almost positive it’s them, but , they’re hanging back a ways Oelefse’s expression was set knowingly. “They are doing their best remain inconspicuous “Why are they bothering? they’ve been keeping track movements since before your arrival, they already know where Kelli “, richtig, but they don’t know that you are taking the hospital. are car, maybe they are thinking that I taking you somewhere else. the airport, for example Cody frowned uncertainly. “Why would you taking the airport Instead responding the query, Oelefse suddenly wrenched hard the wheel and yelled, “Hang , young Cody Cody knew must have paled the oldster cut across two lanes horn-blaring, finger-thrusting traffic launch the Mercedes the last possible instant onto the ramp for the Pima freeway. When he’d recovered his equilibrium sufficiently, turned the seat peer out the back window. “I don’t see them anymore “Gut! will make certain Oelefse was good his word. Not only did lose their pursuers, almost lost the archaeologist well put the big sedan through a series evasive maneuvers that were more aeronautical than automotive. When they finally abandoned the freeway for a return surface streets, Cody was perspiring he’d just finished a three-mile run. Glancing his left, saw that the elderly driver was not even breathing hard. Also, the younger man noted, not once had Oelefse taken either hand off the steering wheel. “I haven’t been this frightened a car since the time Kelli and I had drive from Chachapoyas back base camp the dark Oelefse’s expression did not change, nor did take his eyes off the road ahead. “You should try coming a long line intercontinental trucks traveling fifty kilometers hour when you are doing two twenty, only have one pull out front you the last minute you are trying pass. a bridge. With shoulder. The Autobahn wonderful for driving, but wide shoulders for parking and passing and emergencies American invention glanced briefly his left. “ such moments a man’s heart may stop before his vehicle does. Are they gone Cody scanned the roadway behind them until was sure, sure could . “I don’t see that car anymore “I thought not. takes time for Interlopers communicate with and influence their hosts. Reaction time, remember? Now then—which way this hospital? Just safe, let use a roundabout route

“ you’ll promise keep close the speed limit Cody insisted. “Provided not encounter a certain white sedan, I happy take time and enjoy the scenery. Your American West, you know, very popular Germany Cody was not sure Karl Heinrich Oelefsenten von Eichstatt ever “took his time but was far too drained challenge the older man.

Eleven Despite Cody’s assurance that had not seen a trace the white sedan for over hour, Oelefse insisted circling the several blocks surrounding the hospital, spiraling into a covered parking lot instead heading there directly. one tailed them from the lot the lobby, followed them into the elevator. All the while, both men kept careful watch everyone from nurses janitors visitors. All appeared clean and uninfected, did the colorful boulders that adorned the fountain the third level. Since served the most seriously ill patients, the floor where Kelli lay was quieter than most. There, everything and everyone seemed move more slowly than elsewhere the complex. Nurses spoke more often whispers, and doctors smiled less. There was need for such courtesies anyway; not when the patients for whom they might have been intended could neither see nor hear those who were attending them. Kelli’s room was the far end the hall. did every time paid a visit, Cody pictured her walking, perhaps tottering a little, her white hospital gown she came through the door. Saw her glancing see him approaching, her face breaking out the irresistible, sunny, slightly sardonic smile affection knew well. And also happened every time, recuperating Kelli emerged greet him. Nor did find her standing alone inside, gazing longingly out the window the sun-kissed cityscape beyond, waiting whirl around happily his arrival. The body the bed was pallid and immobile, unchanged from the last time had seen her. his absence knew that nurses turned and cleaned her, that doctors prodded here and poked there. But she always looked the same him; flat her back, eyes closed. She did not look entered, nor react any way his touch. Something else did, however. always did. This time took the form a small white worm limned pale bluish stripes. emerged from her upper arm stab several times his direction before retreating back into the living form that provided with sustenance and shelter. did not make a grab for . Had done , knew that his fingers would have passed completely through . Likewise, the inhabitants his wife’s body, her abiding tormentors, could not move from her him the absence a natural vector such a rock tree. And not just any rock tree. Many, had learned from Oelefse, were unsuitable homes for the creatures. Otherwise, every inch the Earth and every growing thing would have boasted its own coiling, twisting, loathsome inhabitant. Drawing back, mentioned much his mature companion. “Your American Indians and other animist peoples were right all along, young friend Never stopping, never pausing for rest, Oelefse was investigating the room foot foot, section section. “They worshiped many things: the forest, the animals within, the rivers and lakes, the mountains and valleys. For them, each had its own spirit, avoided propitiated. They were more right than ever they knew Using the tip his umbrella, flipped open a cabinet and leaned forward peer carefully inside.

“The animals have their spirits, but they are natural them. They are not Interlopers. And Those Who Abide cannot assuaged with prayers. The practice human sacrifice throughout the ancient world had a very real basis sound medical practice. was the ultimate means ridding individuals the Interlopers who had taken residence within them and emotionally and spiritually sucked them dry. course, a consequence this method cleansing the host also perished, but was the only way the majority our ancestors had coping with the spread Those Who Abide. When your Iroquois Ute Sioux prayed the spirit a particular rock river, more than likely a tribal shaman had already identified the home a waiting Interloper Fascinating the older man’s discourse was, Cody listened with only half ear. His attention was his motionless wife. “ the Chachapoyans weren’t the only ancient peoples with access such knowledge “Nein, friend. The proper combination drugs take enable one perceive was once widely known. less today, due not the myopia physicians and scientists but a concerted effort the part Those Who Abide constrict the spread such knowledge Concluding his inspection the room, carefully set his umbrella aside. “Now, let have a look her Reluctantly, Cody made room that the older man could stand next the bed, close Kelli’s upper body. Oelefse contemplated the recumbent form: the gentle, barely perceptible rise and fall her chest, the occasional fluttering closed eyelids, the soapy drip nutrients through plasticine tubes. Reaching out, gently stroked one exposed arm, his fingers journeying delicately a surgeon’s from cheek neck shoulder, down the promenade bare flesh until they reached the hand that was lying palm downward the blanket. Collecting the limp fingers his own, squeezed gently while murmuring under his breath. “What’s that Leaning forward, Cody tried make out the words. “What are you saying? I don’t underst Crunching and gnashing unearthly fangs, a mouth mounted a weaving stalk burst from the tip his wife’s waxen index finger. snapped the oldster’s cradling fist, the razor-thin teeth slashing harmlessly through his flesh. Oelefse’s hand shuddered slightly, but maintained both his grip and his incantation. Frustrated, the emergent jaws withdrew swiftly back into the finger from which they had erupted. Giving a little shake his head, Oelefse released Kelli’s hand and laid the slack fingers gently down the bed. Turning back anxious, expectant Cody, the older man sighed heavily. “I have not the inclination play the diplomat. Her condition grave “I can see that the archaeologist snapped testily. “Tell something I don’t know. Can you anything for her “I will try. First I must get some things from car Leaving Kelli’s bedside, strode past the anxious archaeologist. “I will right back Cody resumed his stance beside the beautiful, motionless woman the bed. “Don’t touch the rocks around the fountain the way out. They’re contaminated Oelefse smiled knowingly his way out the door. “I know. I saw that the way What was thinking, pointing out the obvious? Cody chided himself the door closed quietly behind the oldster. Oelefse was the nearest thing had encountered a professional Interloper hunter. was just that Cody was still not used the idea that there were others least adept himself ferreting out the hiding places the intruders. helped considerably know that was not alone the world, was not the only one with the ability espy secret horrors lurking innocent-looking pools water and unworked stone. There existed a mysterious brotherhood which had automatically been granted membership virtue his ability perceive. Where Kelli’s still abject condition was concerned, could dare hope. longer felt completely alone.

always did during such visits talked softly her, not expecting a response. Nor did receive one. There was way knowing she heard what murmured lovingly. The doctors said that was possible, but they were the same doctors who were baffled her condition. Without clearance stick his head into other rooms, Cody could only wonder how many the hospital’s other patients might suffering from similar Interloper infestations. They fed off human misery and suffering, Oelefse had assured him. A hospital, therefore, would seem a logical place find them great numbers. How much did they cause? How many afflictions did they directly induce? These were sobering thoughts which could only direct a small portion himself. His focus, his primary concern, remained Kelli. True his word, Oelefse was not gone long before returning with a large briefcase hand. Except for its size, looked like ordinary businessman’s attaché; just the sort a European Oelefse’s class and station life might carry. Setting down empty chair, Cody’s new friend popped open with a remote radio control. Seeing the archaeologist’s expression, the older man explained. “Those Who Abide cannot course open metal latches tumblers, but their human minions can. necessity, the Society are very security-minded Flipping the top, began removing assortment materials, laying them out neatly the empty, four-wheeled food-service tray nearby. “Lock the door Oelefse instructed him. “And the windows. Draw the blinds gestured. “Jam the back that chair against the door latch Cody complied, the diminutive, smartly dressed Oelefse proceeded remove his clothes, stripping down until stood naked the hospital room save for his briefs. Though reflective his age, his pallid physique was more developed than his well-cut suit might have suggested. the archaeologist looked , began paint himself. Cody was a more than competent professional. prided himself being well-read his field, and not just within his specialty western South American studies. But had never seen anything resembling the patterns that the dignified German was now daubing upon his nude form. Slashes and spirals, curls and chevrons, groups dots and mysterious anthropoidal shapes began color his blanched, exposed skin. went about this artistic self-embellishment silence and efficiently were preparing the opera. Finished with the paints, began slick back his white hair with a handful glistening, oily material scooped from a stubby, wide-mouthed jar. A powerful stench filled the room, magnified the lack outside ventilation. “What the hell that “Bear grease Concluding the procedure, Oelefse moved the sink wash his hands—and only his hands. “Infused with distinctive chemicals. The byproducts certain animals have powers undreamed most men. The Orientals know this, and suffer a good deal criticism for Cognizant the worldwide trade animal parts, Cody frowned unhappily. “Rhino horn? Tiger genitals “Nothing like that. Some among the Oriental herbalists are knowledgeable, but most can better than random guessing. The Society has made a study such things The archaeologist’s nose twitched. “I can see where that stuff might repel Interlopers—and everyone else “Not all Reaching once more into his open briefcase, Oelefse removed a sequence necklaces and placed them one a time around his neck. “ not the odor, but a combination other chemicals that are released into the air. Smells have power just tastes and sounds and visuals Holding a small,

exquisitely incised gourd that sat one end a stick decorated with feathers, beads, and seashells, shook Cody’s direction. Small hard objects unseen within the gourd produced a satisfying rattle. Setting momentarily aside, Oelefse removed several lengths gleaming, beautifully machined stainless steel and began screwing them together form a long pole, the end which attached a colorful explosion feathers, bone, and shell. Thus equipped with rattle and staff, paint and grease, looked preposterous indeed stood nearly naked the middle the hospital room: a modern parody some Neolithic witch doctor. His expression, however, was deadly earnest. “Now, begin. Watch the door, young friend. what you must see that I not interrupted “What are you going The archaeologist within Cody was more enthralled than amused the older man’s appearance. Though recognized none the patterns painted the slim, elderly body, nor any the contrivances Oelefse carried, they hinted a collective lineage that was hoary and respected. “Medicine Oelefse declared, “ evolving science that all too often looks down upon its roots. Many those roots are false, but others are fixed real knowledge. Some day I will show you the medical library that the Society has maintained for thousands years smiled through paint and grease. “Its contents are not online Approaching the foot the bed, began chant, shaking the rattle while passing back and forth over Kelli’s feet and legs. From time time would raise the instrument toward the ceiling point toward different corners the room. alternated this with slow horizontal passes the steel staff over her entire blanketed body. Thinking himself prepared for anything, Cody was startled when Kelli moaned and writhed beneath the bed-sheets. wanted ask Oelefse she was pain, but seeing the look concentration the German’s face, observing the tension his muscles sang and moved with studied precision, dared not interrupt. The room grew dark, darker than the shuttered windows ought have allowed. A warm breeze, almost hot, caressed Cody’s cheeks. Something the rising wind sang his ears that was more than the passage air. occasional rumble, distant thunder trapped the mattress, punctuated the breeze. Where wind and rumble arose from the sealed room could only imagine. There came a rapping the door. “Hello? . Westcott, that you? Are you there? What’s going “Everything’s fine, nurse had raise his voice slightly ensure that his words would understood above the wind that was now whipping his long hair about his face. “I thought I’d try some music. wife loves heavy metal “You have turn down, . Westcott. Excessive noise will not tolerated “I’ll watch replied response the admonition. The rapping ceased. Pleased with himself, turned back the bed—whereupon his eyes all but jumped out his head. A small but intense vortex had formed directly above his wife’s body; a wide-lipped, slowly rotating squat tornado a spiral within which flashes red light raced like electrified rats skittering for distant burrows. His position unchanged the foot the bed, a chanting Karl Heinrich Oelefsenten von Eichstatt conducted this energetic specter with rattle and staff and carefully composed incantation. Cody was certain there was a perfectly good scientific explanation for what was seeing: just escaped him the moment. The rapping the door was now replaced a more insistent pounding. “Open there! . Westcott, you must open this door The voice was demanding, insistent. Glancing Oelefse’s direction for a sign, Cody found himself ignored. When the pounding intensified, the archaeologist responded pressing his

shoulder against the door and leaning his weight into , more than a little astonished the position suddenly found himself occupying. The wind the room had risen a howl, all sucked inward toward the flashing, shrieking vortex. Oelefse’s surprisingly strong voice rose a feverish pitch, a small greenish length spectral plasm emerged from his wife’s abdomen. Fighting cling its host, the shape was drawn involuntarily upward, vanish into the spout-like underside the vortex. was followed a cluster tentacles attached a knobbed egg. Eyes dipped and bobbed wildly a flattened, crablike blob went next. A staring, gaping Cody did not know was witnessing multiple Interlopers being drawn from his wife’s twisting, moaning form, pieces a single, much larger one. Wherever the truth lay, was clear that her infection was serious had believed all along. The door shuddered something heavy slammed against the other side. Tightening his jaws, Cody struggled find a better purchase the slick hospital floor pushed back against whatever was trying get . Whoever was out the hall had stopped yelling him and shouting orders favor turning brute strength. With a desperation born revived hope, the archaeologist held his ground, his efforts abetted the metal chair had jammed against the handle. Again the door boomed something heavy thudded against . How much longer, wondered? The tireless Oelefse showed sign ceasing his chorusing his choreography. When would whoever was the other side call Security, outside police? And when they finally arrived, now seemed inevitable that they must, what would Cody tell them? they got a good look the painted-, greased-down elderly German, they might not bother with questions. Not that Cody cared was arrested and incarcerated along with Oelefse. would suffer any indignity, endure any punishment, only Kelli’s health could restored her. And maybe this time she would take his “crazy theories” a little more seriously. Especially after she had the opportunity converse with her hapless doctors. She was far from cured yet, however. Cody held the door against all intruders, Oelefse stood straight and strong the darkened room, which was now alive with brief bursts supernal brilliance and streaks emancipated crimson lightning. Kelli continued twist and whine softly within the bed one grotesque guise after another was pulled from her body vanish into the slender but irresistible maw the wailing vortex. A cluster saw-edged tentacles suddenly thrust through the door, weaving and flailing. One pierced the archaeologist’s forearm, emerging the other side. There was blood and pain; only a slight coolness the vicinity his wrist. After writhing futilely for a few moments, the tentacles withdrew. The hospital door was metal and composite. While the Interlopers the other side could penetrate were water, the absence a vector composed natural material they could neither infect nor affect the human leaning against the other side. Cody was wondering how they were going celebrate, when something monstrous and irredeemably evil suddenly burst through his wife’s chest strike the vortex. had a wide, warty, leprous face with burning white eyes and tiny bright yellow pupils that bulged far forward they seemed the verge tumbling out their inadequate sockets and onto the floor. A great, clawed, four-fingered hand reached from a muscular shoulder still buried within Kelli slash violently the vortex, cleaving though were made paper. Bits the compact maelstrom went flying all directions. One just missed Cody’s face and felt the heat its passing flew past him and through the solid hospital door. The apparent catastrophe had one beneficial side effect, one unforeseen consolation: Something the other side the door screamed, and the heavy pounding that threatened numb the desperate archaeologist’s shoulder momentarily ceased.

Abruptly confused, the wind tore his exposed skin and clothes. The massive yet ethereal hand reached for the chanting Oelefse. Bringing his metal staff down a swooping arc, the German struck between its grasping fingers. Red sparks that were not the fire Earth flew, momentarily blinding Cody. A distant, discordant howl rose from that horrific, swollen face and promptly withdrew, pulling the single hand down with , back into Kelli’s writhing form. Tears started from Cody’s eyes the thought that something like that might living within, and feeding upon, the woman adored. With the destruction the vortex the wind began fade, individual zephyrs slipping away hide beneath doors and windowsills and ventilator shafts. Normal, subdued sunlight that had been forced from the room returned, brightening considerably. exhausted Oelefse stood supporting himself with one hand the bed’s footboard. His expression was drained and sweat poured rivulets down his face and naked body, streaking the patterns had carefully painted there. For the first time, Cody noted that the elderly man was muscled a retired circus performer, the lumps and bulges within his flesh clad skin the texture and hue dirty white suede. Interestingly, the pounding the door was not resumed. The calm before the accusatory storm, the archaeologist decided. Moving quickly the side the bed, stared down Kelli. She appeared resting comfortably once more, though droplets sweat now beaded her face. Finding a washcloth, tenderly brushed away the perspiration. Her eyes remained closed, her expression nonresponsive before. Troubled, turned Oelefse. “ she better? She looks the same. And she’s still not reacting “Give a moment, friend. I understand your distress, but nothing will change I take a few minutes for myself, and will present a much more reassuring appearance the administrative functionaries I alter mine Snapping the briefcase shut, took with him into the bathroom. Moments later Cody heard the shower running. Apprehensive was, there was nothing could draw explanation from the older man. would have wait. And had admit that Oelefse was right. Hospital security would far less inclined have them arrested the German did not appear before them clad bear grease, war paint, and little else. Glancing idly toward the foot the bed, saw that Oelefse had laid rattle and staff down the bed sheets. Three-quarters the way the staff, the tough stainless steel was partially melted beneath a black streak slightly less than a foot long. Cody went cold inside. The thing that had caused that was living within, and feeding off, the woman loved. Based what knew, Interlopers could not normally affect nonnatural objects such steel. But the events the preceding half hour had been anything but normal. Certain minor laws nature had been suspended, existence altered, and perception adjusted. Reality had been tampered with. Leaving Kelli’s bedside, removed the chair propped against the door and opened the window blinds, flooding the room once more with unfiltered sunshine. the time Oelefse emerged from the bathroom, once again impeccably attired, there was little indicate that anything out the ordinary had taken place. The German was just setting his handsome hat back his head when two husky security guards burst into the room, closely trailed a doctor and nurse. they cast suspicious glances all directions, Cody looked curiously. “Everything all right When the security men gazed hard the archaeologist, met their accusatory stares with expression bemused innocence. The doctor turned the bewildered nurse. “Well? What’s this all about, then “I— sounded like there was a war going here. I swear, Doctor! The outside walls were shaking. you

put your palm against them you could feel the vibrations The duty physician turned sternly face Cody, who was seated the edge the bed alongside his gently breathing wife. “ nurses are not subject hallucinations, . Westcott “I told her Cody shrugged, affecting the air one who when confronted a meaningless challenge could not and would not argue with those too daft accept the obvious. “ wife likes heavy metal. I’m sorry I had going a little too loud “A little loud The flustered nurse’s outrage was palpable. “ was more than music that was going here Oelefse spoke , gesturing the room. “Really, Herr Doktor, you see anything amiss The duty physician scanned the room. “. , everything looks all right His eyebrows drew together and gestured with a nod. “What are those one, Cody and Oelefse’s eyes went the two long objects resting crosswise the foot the bed. Rising from his seat, the old man picked them , prepared allow the doctor closer scrutiny should inclined. “Gifts for young friend here.

archaeologist, and such interested all manner primitive objects

The doctor stared a moment longer. Then finally relaxed. “They’re very handsome. Indian? The metal one , course, a reproduction Behind him, the nurse glowered silently. “ course. , they are Indian. You are perceptive beyond your field, Herr Doktor Feeling good about himself and better about the situation, the physician smiled broadly. “Sorry have bothered you, then. Please try keep the volume down here, though. Our walls are reasonably well soundproofed, but they’re not impenetrable, and not all our patients are heavy metal fans. Especially some the elderly ones. American British band Oelefse gestured deferentially. “German, course. Rammstein. I thought they might especially efficacious this case The doctor shook his head amusement. “Heavy metal music. Now that’s a therapy I haven’t tried Favoring the bewildered nurse with a withering look reproach, turned and led the way out the room. Relieved any need wrestle with recalcitrant visitors, the security men followed without comment. Cody let out a deep, inward sigh relief. preoccupied with the nurse’s report and then distracted Oelefse’s colorful gear had the doctor been, he’d failed notice the absence a player, tape deck, any other visible source the sounds that the archaeologist had claimed the “music” that had shaken the room. The older man began break down the staff into its component parts repack the briefcase. paused inspect the scorched, marginally melted section shaft, running a finger over speculatively. “Donnerwetter. Very powerful infestation, this. Very, very strong muttered under his breath. “What now? What happened Cody glanced helplessly down his beloved. “Did any that any good? She doesn’t seem any better “, but she Carefully, Oelefse placed the rattle his attaché. The archaeologist noted absently that the interior was equipped with customized holding straps, pockets, and slots designed accommodate a wide variety paraphernalia not usually found such cases. The decorated and incised gourd-rattle fit neatly between ultrathin laptop computer and a satellite telephone. “ that a fact Cody cradled his wife’s limp hand. “Better how “She was suffering from a multiple infestation. Perhaps you saw, when I drew them out “I didn’t know what was going Was Kelli’s pulse stronger? spoke, let his fingers slide affectionately

along her wrist. “Are you telling you performed some sort exorcism “That word conjures all manner irrelevant theological connotations. Rather say that I interfered a metaphysical level with a number the Interlopers abiding your wife’s body. Through a combination sounds produced a variety means I rendered them exceedingly uncomfortable Cody listened intently. “Okay, you got them out. I don’t pretend understand how, but you can fill the details some other time. Where did they indicated the smooth, painted hospital walls. “There are natural materials here for them make contact with, unless the wood the walls would suffice. which case finished with a start, “they’re still here “They are not still here. There very little wood these walls. Like those most large commercial structures, they are framed with steel. Having accessible locus human contact outside your wife’s body, and being unable the absence a suitable natural vector find a way enter ours, they were inescapably drawn back their own world The archaeologist’s gaze narrowed. “Their world “One that exists tandem with our own. Not parallel, some theoreticians would have , but thoroughly integrated. Even speak, parts are passing through this city, this room, our bodies. Think a sheet aluminum foil, crumpled into irregular ball and then pierced with many long needles. The needles represent the world the Interlopers. Portions the needles penetrate and make contact with the aluminum sphere while others either stick out the sides pass through air pockets within. Where folds aluminum make contact with shafts steel, congruency exists. All Interlopers can perceive our world, but only a few among , those whose sight has been altered, can perceive them. for their world, well, a place best not seen, not even those who are prepared Cody hesitated uncertainly. “ drawing these Interlopers out Kelli’s body and sending them back their world, you’ve cured her “Unfortunately, . I have cured some, and seen done other members the Society, but I afraid that this instance best was not good enough. your wife were abiding less than seven different kinds— not say ‘species Interlopers. they were drawn from her I recognized Thalep, Ozixt, Horok, Jaquinq, Balemete, and Sagravht “That’s six Cody pointed out unnecessarily. “You said you recognized seven Rising from his chair, Oelefse walked forward until was standing the foot the bed. Reaching out and down, put a hand Kelli Westcott’s blanketed ankle and squeezed gently. The softest moans escaped her barely parted lips. “Uninivulk. Very bad one, very potent. Hard I tried, I could not break its grip your wife’s vitals. too strong, too tightly interwoven with her system. always hungry, always feeding. Frankly, I was surprised see -existing with many lesser its virulent brethren. Usually a Uninivulk will not tolerate company Eyes brimming with sad wisdom rose meet those the anxious archaeologist. “They must hate you very much “It’s reciprocated Staring down his wife, Cody tried recall detail the awful phantasm that had risen from her resting form take a vicious, ineffective swipe the older man. was living inside her, feasting her discomfort, wallowing her physical and mental suffering. could nothing about . Without Oelefse’s intervention could not even see . And neither could the well-meaning physicians who came check her condition twice a day. “That how I helped her Oelefse released the covered ankle and took a step back. “Though the worst the Interlopers remains within, six have been expunged His expression twisted wry amusement. “The

next nurse physician who checks the equipment that monitoring her condition will very surprised, and encouraged. The improvement real, but any encouragement false. For the moment, she better: physically stronger, her body freed battle with the only one that still abides. Sometimes humans can fight off such infestations their own, through sheer effort will. That how seemingly incurable victims inexplicable illnesses suddenly manage make full recoveries The slight smile evaporated. “That will not happen your wife’s case. Not when her system forced deal with abiding Uninivulk. I have never known anyone infected virulent Interloper survive. She will better for a little while. Then its presence, and feeding, will begin take a toll her temporarily reinvigorated system. She will again begin fail, start the inevitable, slow descent into paralysis, and death Cody could barely control his response. “Then you didn’t help her very much after all, did you? All that happened here was that you postponed the inevitable “ only inevitable nothing, and the Uninivulk allowed continue feeding unchallenged. I said that I had never known anyone infected that variety Interloper have survived. I did not say that survival was impossible. There are things that can tried His eyes bored into the younger man’s. “ will dangerous. You must trust implicitly and everything exactly I say “Tell what I have Cody responded without hesitation. “Just don’t expect trust your driving “Good! You can still joke. Remember always how much the Interlopers hate that Turning, walked back his chair and closed the briefcase. Multiple locks snapped shut. “First, you must hire someone watch over your wife around the clock The archaeologist frowned. “Isn’t that the responsibility the hospital staff “I can see that you have never had spend much time hospitals. Staff carry out their assignments, and little more. Nurses will bring your wife new bags nutrients, will check her vital signs manually back the work the machines, and will keep her clean. Doctors will make brief checks her condition part their scheduled rounds. The rest the time, she will lie here like this. Alone indicated the door. “Reflect a moment the adverse possibilities. Late night, a lackey Those Who Abide enters. not noticed, not challenged. carries a canvas sack containing several large stones, pieces wood brought from the forest. lays these your wife’s helpless body. Each stone and piece wood contains “All right, all right: I get the picture. I’ll see that she gets twenty-four-hour care “ will see that she does. must make certain that whatever agency you use, whoever you hire, Interloper-free. not a difficult thing , but must done. Then, and only then, you and I must make a little trip “Where ? Drugstores? Someplace that can only found a bigger city? It’s not far L.A “ are help your wife survive see another birthday, I afraid must roam farther than that. You have done much work Peru. May I therefore assume that your passport order

Twelve Cody’s surprise, saying goodbye his wife while she lay unconscious and entirely unresponsive turned out far more difficult than had ever been when she was alert and mindful. such times she would always make some little joke lighten the atmosphere farewell. This time there was quip send him off. was usually Kelli who would choose the moment for a passionate, parting kiss. This time there was

passion. was his wife who always had have the last wave goodbye. This time was the one control the moment. When came, did not want whisper the joke, bestow the kiss, flash the wave. did not want any those things, because didn’t want leave. Especially after the confrontation that had all but consumed the hospital room several days earlier. had choice the matter, knew. was going restore her, had follow Oelefse’s orders, and following those orders meant accompanying the older man back Europe. meant leaving Kelli behind, not laughing and absorbed her own research had been the case similar previous occasions, but lying bed motionless and unaware, more helpless than any kitten. least she would not completely alone. After Oelefse had thoroughly vetted the security company’s background and run his own unique brand surreptitious checks its staff, Cody hired security personnel with Kelli around the clock. Though puzzled, they offered objections the strictures the archaeologist and his elderly friend placed their movements, and who should allowed have contact with the patient. the absence a perceiver like Cody himself, this setup was not perfect. But was better than leaving Kelli exposed and vulnerable whoever might wander off the street. Even when all that could done had been done and there was nothing left , was reluctant leave her side. From the doorway, Oelefse’s voice chided him gently. “ have , Cody. You can nothing for her here The older man checked the Patek Phillipe his wrist. “ will miss our flight “I’m coming Rising from the edge the bed, the distraught archaeologist leaned over gently press his lips against his wife’s. Each time did , hoped, and each time those hopes were dashed. A sleeping beauty Kelli might , but was going take more than a lover’s kiss awaken her from the contaminated slumber into which she had fallen. “Don’t worry, . Westcott Seated the other side the bed, a middle-aged, balding concrete block a man put down the novel had been reading long enough offer a reassuring smile. The -cop’s belly might have gone flab, but there was nothing wrong with his mind his reflexes. “ outfit’s used this kind work, though we’re usually hired watch over injured criminals awaiting transport jail glanced down Kelli. “Ain’t nobody gonna mess with her while one buddies here Cody could only nod. Lately had been reduced nodding a great deal. left him feeling dead the water, was neither going forward nor retreating but instead had become trapped time, a fly molasses reduced wriggling helplessly place. The mere act turning away from the bed, not knowing when might see her again, not knowing she would even alive the time returned, made him feel were trying move a parked truck with his bare hands. All the way through the hospital kept wanting turn around and back, convinced had forgotten something, wanting hold her his arms one more time, desperate brush his mouth across her lips and cheeks and forehead the event she could sense such contact. Not wanting leave. Then they were striding through the entrance atrium their way out the hospital. was compelled endure more Oelefse’s driving, but was a mercifully short ride from the hospital Scottsdale the airport. They were not challenged the way, subsequent their arrival. The older man was quick explain that airports were comparatively secure places, islands safety a world alive with Interlopers. Except for the occasional sculpture wood stone, everything about them was man-made and therefore unsuitable a vector for the intruders. Having spent his fair share time airports, Cody had always decried their artificiality. Now embraced . struck him that agreeing follow Oelefse’s directives blindly, had neglected ask even the most basic

questions. Such … “Where Europe are going? Germany, seek the help your Society “Close, young friend, but not quite. What seek lies near there. I would make the slight detour show you our library, introduce you colleagues, but time precious. That friendship and those books will always there. your wife must concerned with now Cody could not have responded better himself. “Where, then His elderly companion held their tickets, which had not seen. “Have you ever been Austria Austria! Land Mozart and pastry, fine crystal and alpine skiing. “. work has only taken South America, remember “Then this deficiency your traveling experience about rectified. Though Oelefse added somberly, “I afraid there will little time sample the delights that enchanting country. whipped cream for , young friend. raisin brot, sachertorte, kaiserschmarrm. search blue leaves “Blue leaves A methodical, barely intelligible feminine voice was calling their flight. Hefting his carry-, Cody trailed his guide closely, not wanting lose him the milling crowd. “Ilecc leaves. Does your wife like tea The flight was full: noisy and busy all the way New York. From there was nonstop all the way Vienna. After overnighting a hotel connected directly the airport terminals, Cody once more had suffer Oelefse’s driving they made their way northwest Salzburg. “Why Salzburg the archaeologist spoke was staring out the window the increasingly mountainous Austrian countryside. “ ancient and traditional point congruency always, both the German’s hands were firmly affixed the steering wheel. His eyes never strayed from the road ahead. “There a rock there. For some reason, large and distinctive rocks are often the loci such places. they were buttons, tying together both halves a sweater. Only this instance, our rock fastens together two different dimensions the same world “What happens the rock gets moved Cody inquired only half-jokingly. “ the two pieces the world come apart A small smile amusement creased Oelefse’s face. such moments looked, Cody decided, like a mischievous watchmaker who repaired cuckoo clocks during the day while quietly assembling atom bomb his basement night. “ the case this particular rock that not a concern, friend. You will understand when you see was midafternoon when they entered the old city, a gabled knot steeples and towers and manywindowed stone buildings. The presence much stone unnerved Cody, but Oelefse knew ways through the often narrow, shop-lined streets that allowed them avoid the attention local Interlopers. The German was right his assertion that the rock question was danger being picked and moved. The old city ringed like a necklace, individual buildings set like faceted gemstones its base. A flat-topped Gibraltar, dominated the town and the surrounding terrain; a massive, sheer-sided mass solid graywhite granite hundreds feet high. Resting atop this majestic monolith and occupying the entire plateau was the enormous and imposing fortress Hohensalzburg, ancient home dozens kings and rulers this

part the world. Unknowingly, they had constructed their fortress atop one the buttons that held together the different dimensions that comprised this corner reality. Having parked the car, Oelefse led his awestruck companion a gentle path that wound like a snake between walls cut stone and gray stucco, until they reached the base the natural ziggurat. Twenty forty feet above the ground, Cody could see where small openings had been hacked out the naked rock. Some were exposed the afternoon air while others were covered with heavily weathered grates iron dark was almost black. Still others had steps leading them, and were barred with wooden doors. Noting the direction his stare, Oelefse anticipated his companion’s questions. “Those are ancient caves, young friend. For thousands years they were home Neolithic hunter-gatherers. Later, they provided shelter for order druids dedicated fighting Those Who Abide Tilting his head back slightly, gestured upward. “This great rock, upon which the fortress raised, for some reason yet fathomed inhospitable Interlopers. They not, and the best our knowledge never have, dwelled within. Perhaps instinctively, that why the castle was begun here. Possibly some court sorcerer recommended the site. are not sure. For hundreds years the inaccessible heights offered safety from the depredations attacking hordes seeking displace those who lived here comparative peace. “Following the druids, the caves were occupied monks the Order Saint Callis. Building upon the knowledge left behind their druidic predecessors, they too gave battle the Interlopers for nearly a thousand years. When the Order was dissolved and dispersed invaders, the survivors regrouped a river valley the north “And became the Society a marveling Cody finished for him. “Your Society “Yes Oelefse nodded solemnly. They were nearing the end the path and approaching a structure that was built into the rock. “Now must rest this sacred place, and have something eat “Eat Cody blinked. “Here “ you not see the sign His guide pointed upward, the lintel above the doorway they were approaching. “ friend, here the catacombs district . Peter’s Abbey the oldest continuously operating restaurant Europe. was founded the Society and has been providing rest and sustenance for , and for other travelers, ever since Cody noted the sign but was unable read . they passed beneath, Oelefse translated for him. “Open since 803 smiled slightly. “That the year, young friend, not the time day Inside, once a few whispered words had passed between Oelefse and a waiter, they were directed deep into the establishment, where they took seats a room lined with vaulted brick. One wall was bare, unworked stone: the naked rock the granite monolith itself. Somewhere high above their heads the yellow-and-brown patinaed wall the fortress guarded Hohensalzburg’s impregnable approaches. was cool and dark and very, very quiet the chamber. The other half dozen tables, immaculately set, stayed empty. When food finally arrived, Cody knew what was like eat a fancy meal a simple cave. “This a special place With the grace a visiting nobleman dining Versailles, Oelefse cut away small, bite-sized pieces his schnitzel and placed them fastidiously his mouth. Watching him, Cody was sure that had one been available, his guide would have preferred the use a scalpel ordinary knife. “Society members have met here and planned strategy against Those Who Abide for thousands years. For the past millennium have also dined here, first caves like this, later the rooms that have been added onto the exterior the establishment gestured with his knife. “Above our heads are millions tons solid rock, none , insofar have been able determine, ever

inhabited Interlopers. Why this should , why they should shun this stone while infesting others like , not know, but from prehistoric times the rock was recognized one those rare places that are a part the natural world that safe from infestation. provides advantages for defense, and for study “ there have always been members the Society active here spoke, Cody was slathering fresh butter dark bread. “Even before there was a Society. Recognizing the uniqueness the site, one our more prominent European members, the Archbishop Gebhard, laid the first foundations for the fortress 1077. took six hundred years continuous work bring the condition you now see. Much the most important work was done another our venerable members, Leonhard von Keutschach. “Recognizing this place a center knowledge and resistance, Those Who Abide have made various attempts down through the centuries destroy , most notably influencing those they dominated gather sufficient strength attack. The last such attempt was made a group angry farmers “When was that Cody inquired over his excellent meal. “Let think The older man’s brow furrowed. “I believe was 1525 “ the fortress has been secure since then Here was a place where even Kelli could safe, the archaeologist mused. “ a sense. The Society abandoned longer necessary its efforts back 1861, when all archives and study facilities for this part the world were consolidated Heidelberg Sitting back, swept arm upward encompass the dark, somber room which they were dining. “But there are times that demand one more visit here, make use the rock’s unique properties “Like providing a home for a plant with blue leaves “Among other things, yes Oelefse’s expression fell slightly. “One hopes the ilecc bush may still accessed here. all goes well, will find out tonight Cody frowned. “Why tonight? Why not now “You will see, young friend. You will see Smiling, the older man indicated Cody’s plate. “Finish your meal. You will need your strength The archaeologist assumed would need least some that strength scale the mountain, but developed, very little effort was required. Though was possible follow the footsteps the thousands who had gone before and climb the steep, winding road that led from the old city the fortress, Oelefse opted take the funicular, inclined railway, that had been bolted the sheer side the rock. Designed convey lazy tourists the top, provided a means ascent that enabled both men conserve their strength. For what, Cody could only imagine. Once inside, the magnitude the fortress astonished him. Exploring from within was the only way appreciate its vast extent and the effort that had gone into its construction and expansion. Surrounded the massive stone walls the granary, the arsenal, and the extensive living quarters, could well believe had taken six hundred years complete. Now swarmed with laughing children and their curious parents, doe-eyed honeymooners and picture-snapping foreigners. “You rarely see anyone acting unhappy sad here Oelefse remarked. Walking the edge a wall, inhaled deeply the fresh air gazed southward toward distant Heilbronn Palace and the snow-clad Alps beyond. “This a safe place Kneeling, picked a handful grit and let sift away between his fingers. “Clean stone. Such gateways are vital our understanding Those Who Abide, and our unceasing efforts wipe them out

“Gateways Looking around, Cody could see a number entrances; the inner keep, the royal residences, kitchens and living quarters. They ranged size from small arched openings blocked wooden doors massive double gates bound with iron strapping and nails. “Which one ours “You cannot see from here Turning away from the spectacular view the Austrian countryside, Oelefse led his young companion down broad stone steps. “ was easily accessible, some maintenance worker tourist might stumble into . That would like not prove fatal the curious Seeing the look the archaeologist’s face added, “I told you this could dangerous. you wish wait behind, I can alone and “We’d argue about the philosophical underpinnings, just like argue about everything else, but I must remind you that I’d die for Kelli Cody regarded his elderly guide without blinking. “, true: There logic love. I would have done the same for Ingrid, but—she died first. Come Holding tight his briefcase, led the way northward, against the flow tourists and other visitors. “ will make ready Preparations consisted taking the last guided tour the day. they were shown the state apartments and fabulous ceramic medieval room heaters and other highlights the fortress, Cody tried not become too absorbed the guide’s talk. The history the castle was fascinating, but hadn’t come all this way play tourist. Halfway through, they were about leave the Reck-turm, prison tower, Oelefse gestured for him hang back. Gradually, the voices the tour guide and his flock receded into the distance, the murmur their voices swallowed their stony surroundings. The two men stood alone a low, narrow passageway. Opening his briefcase, Oelefse removed a massive wrought-iron key half the length his forearm. Inserting this into the coal-black iron lock ancient door opposite, turned gently possible. Metal ratcheted against metal and the door opened a push. Entering, the dapper German shut the door behind him and relocked from the inside. Removing a pair compact flashlights from his case, handed one Cody and switched its mate. The lights revealed a passageway and stone stairs leading downward. After descending through a couple corkscrew turns they encountered a second door far more recent manufacture. The alloyed metal was secured a pair electronic locks. When Oelefse keyed the combination, the barrier slid upward into the ceiling allow them entry. Eventually the corridor leveled out. windows dimpled the ancient stone walls and light entered from outside. Oelefse halted outside a third door. “Where are the archaeologist finally felt compelled ask. “Inside the mountain, near the center the fortress and the loci The older man pointed upward. “There a huge old lime tree not far above our heads. one knows when was planted, but still produces excellent limes Cody blinked. “We’re practically the Alps here and there’s a lime tree growing out this bare rock “Astonishing, isn’t ? But then, are standing astonishing place Glancing around, Oelefse found a stone bench, sat down, and checked his watch. “It’s just past five o’clock, almost closing time for visitors. Soon Security will begin rousting teenagers from their hidden corners and hustling the romantically inclined the direction the road the funicular. There are certain nights during the year when the fortress kept open after dark for special celebrations. Tonight not one them. will able what must without being disturbed “What about after-hours security? Aren’t there watchmen

“Only the main walk- entrance. There other way reach the castle after dark, unless one experienced mountaineer. Scaling the rock such a fashion against the law. course, that has not prevented people from doing , but knowledge, has never been attempted night. Not only would that exceedingly dangerous, there would none the publicity such people seek Folding his hands his lap, settled himself back against the cold, unyielding wall. “You mentioned something about loci Cody queried him. “You remember description the habitat the Interlopers being akin needles thrust through the aluminum ball that our world? One such ‘needle’ passes through this rock. Because the great massif hostile Those Who Abide, yet close our reality, they tend congregate its vicinity. Beyond this stone lies a meeting place our world and theirs checked his watch again. “ the realm midnight will have pass through one more door, and then will looking pick the leaves the delicate blue ilecc “What until then Cody felt the weight stone, not mention ages, pressing down upon him. Oelefse smiled reassuringly. “I have a deck cards. And a portable chess set. you play chess, Cody Westcott “A little. Kelli and I Choked, found could not finish the remembrance. “Good Digging once more through the contents the briefcase, the German took out a chessboard and began set individual pieces. Cody started help, but was forced stop. “What’s that? And that pointed several pieces whose appearance was confusing. “The first a rook, the second a knight Having set his own side, Oelefse began the same for his young friend. “Their shapes are not this reality, but that which home Those Who Abide. You should learn recognize them “Why? For a couple games “ Playing black, the older man waited for his opponent make a move. “Because a few hours you may seeing the beings upon which these carved pieces are based, and you will want avoid them the dim glow their flashlights, his eyes glittered hard and efficient. “They will worse than try checkmate you, a game that considerably more serious The preoccupied archaeologist was inordinately pleased win two the five games they played, though there were a couple times when suspected that his opponent was making foolish errors just keep him the game. fully intended query Oelefse about , but when the older man abruptly swept the pieces into a waiting box and folded the board, forgot all about the trivialities time-wasting amusements. “Are you sure you are ready for this, friend avuncular figure now, Oelefse seemed have sloughed off thirty years faced the door the far side the chamber. “You can still wait for here “Not a chance Cody was emphatic. “Whatever lies ahead, whatever getting these leaves entails, I’m with you The older man nodded solemnly. “Keep close, then, and I tell you Unlocking the door, stepped through, waited for Cody follow, and shut the barrier behind them. They were committed. Keeping his breathing steady, the archaeologist followed the German, their feet tapping stairs that now wound upward a wide spiral. Diffuse light began illuminate the steps and found longer needed the flashlight, which promptly slipped into a front pocket his jeans. Spilling straight down into the winding stairwell was the light a full moon. Two full moons.

They hung side side the night sky, impossibly close together. Gravity ought have torn them apart, but perhaps gravity did not act here did his reality. Certainly nothing else did, Cody saw soon stepped out the stairwell and found himself standing the surface alongside Oelefse. The fortress, all tens thousands tons , was gone. For that matter, was the city Salzburg that had been dreaming below, and the distant silhouettes the Alps. their place was a forest rooted imagination that sprouted from soil sparkling with tiny crystals. “This beautiful Reaching out, touched a single leaf that was longer than was tall. Dark ripples spread from the tips his fingers along the length the leaf, had dipped them a still pond. had made contact without truly touching. “ also lethal, young friend Eyes wary those old survivor alley cat, posture alert, Oelefse was turning a slow circle examined their immediate surroundings. Behind them, a gaping cavity the crystal-dusted earth marked the way back the fortress, back Salzburg. Back reality. spite his resolve mindful the older man’s warnings, Cody was overcome the splendor into which they had emerged. Having expected something entirely different, insofar had anticipated anything all, was taken aback the spectral wonderland which they found themselves. had been prepared encounter a landscape Dore Breughel Giger. Instead, found himself surroundings that sprang from Rackham and Nielsen. All that was lacking were tiny slips fairies darting and fro. cue, a pair misshapen pixies materialized and swerved his direction. Instead elfin, pre-pubescent bodies draped glowing gauze, they had flat, dun-colored faces with wide mouths. Their arms were long, hung down well below their bodies, and were tipped with single quills instead hands. place buttocks, bloated abdomens bobbed the sultry air. They had eyes and twinkled like bumblebees that had been dipped glitter. the dual moonlight, they were figures myth and magic. “Get down Something hit Cody from behind, between the shoulders, knocking him his knees. Reaching forward fell, threw out his open palms absorb the impact. Where his palms struck the earth, puffs rainbowhued dust rose from between reflective blades crystalline grass. Everything seemed happening slow motion. Glancing backward, saw Oelefse assume a kneeling posture. His briefcase lay near his feet, unlatched and open. A device he’d removed from one its copious pockets was gripped firmly both hands aimed the shimmering, oncoming phantasms. looked like a toy molded from plastic, with brightly colored protrusions emerging from its sides and top and a muzzle that flared wide a saucer the style oldfashioned blunderbuss. A child’s gun. “Hey Cody started ask his friend and guide, “ that really neces—?” Reaching over, Oelefse gave him a hard shove with his left hand, knocking the unsteady Cody onto his side. instant later, the glittering specter nearest the two men spat something from its flat face. the end the long tongue, which gleamed like a neon tube the moonlight, was a small, barbed ball. struck a very small, glittering bush behind where Cody had been kneeling. Immediately, the bush collapsed inward upon itself and shrank the size a walnut. When the tongue retracted, the shrunken bush was ripped from the ground and sucked down into that featureless, alien face. Oelefse fired. The exquisite floating deformity blew apart a shower colorful sparkles that sifted the ground like electric snow. A second shot caught the other flyer with its tongue halfway extended the older man’s direction. When exploded, emitted a muffled popping sound, like a water-filled balloon coming apart. Relaxing his arms but with every sense alert, Oelefse turned check his companion.

“Are you all right, friend Shaken, the archaeologist was watching the last twinkling fragments a misshapen existence filter down the ground. “What the hell were those “There are almost many different varieties Interloper there are creatures the face our Earth. They are a multitude, Cody Westcott, and each one dangerous the next. Anything that moves here, wherever here , can infest, infect, contaminate. Look, yes, but touch nothing. our reality there are also many beautiful things that can kill Reaching down, extended a helping hand. Waving him off, Cody rose his own, wiping from his palms dust that sparkled the moonlight like powdered gemstones. All around him was unimaginable, empyreal beauty. And Oelefse was believed, every inch potentially deadly. Even after surviving the attack the two floating oddities, was difficult reconcile much glistening splendor with implied danger. Touch nothing? How could resist caressing the blossoms translucent pink that burst forth lacy profusion from the bushes that lined the path they were taking? How could anyone expect him not push gently against the cascade shimmering liquid purple that spilled from a crack crystal-dusted rocks? Oelefse kept a watchful eye him. long the older man did not protest, Cody felt free sample the tactile delights the otherness into which they had stepped. Only once more did his guide interfere physically. The archaeologist had reached out pluck a nearly transparent, diamond-covered bloom the size a cabbage from its stalk when Oelefse’s hand clamped with surprising strength the younger man’s wrist. Shaking admonishing finger the archaeologist, the elderly German used the flared tip his pistol gently nudge the blossom’s petals aside. Beneath, crawled half a dozen fat caterpillar shapes. Miniature lightning scrolled down their backs colorful streaks. When touched the hard edge the gun, their heads expanded ten times their normal size, displaying a ring inward-facing teeth that looked sharp and brutal. this unexpected, implicitly deadly flowering, Cody drew back, remembering what Oelefse had said about deadly beauty. was warning enough. Thereafter, despite a flourish temptation, kept his hands himself and contemplated the surrounding dazzle with eyes alone. They had long since left the stairwell reality behind. Cody wondered how Oelefse knew where they were going. There were paths, nothing indicate direction, and little that could used a landmark. Towering growths would shrink with notable speed into the ground their approach, only reappear like launching rockets their wake. The entire glittering, glistening, shimmering realm was a state permanent agitation, remaining too long one place form its inhabitants were inviting affliction. The light and color were staggering their diversity. Oelefse was leading him deeper and deeper into a world composed reconstituted rainbows, much potentially murderous. A supple figure winged, flaming green sparks danced past his head. was one the most beautiful things had ever seen, and didn’t dare touch , try capture his cupped hands. Oelefse’s admonitions had firmly taken root. the dimension Those Who Abide, the archaeologist had learned, beauty packed a nasty bite.

Thirteen There Oelefse paused a patch knee-high ropes that fountained silver sparkles from their extremities, like

many eels vomiting enchantment. Coming behind him, Cody strained for a better view. the clash and confusion mutable radiance, was difficult isolate any one shape configuration. Only when his guide pointed out did the younger man espy the cluster ilecc. Just Oelefse had told him, its leaves were intense cobalt hue that twinkled illuminated from within a million miniscule blue bulbs. Even the convulsion color that surrounded them, the several ilecc bushes stood out. Though without Oelefse’s trained eye, Cody doubted could have found them his own. Singled out and isolated his line sight, they were spectacular any the transcendental growths and his companion had encountered thus far. Oelefse retained the lead they tentatively approached the cluster. Nothing sprang from the surrounding inimical fairyland lay claim their souls. Nothing reached forth tear them asunder. Bending slightly, the older man handed Cody his outré pistol. “Keep watch Reaching into his briefcase, pulled out a knife that was breathtaking its ordinariness. Simple handle, single unadorned steel blade. was that a line electricity running along its cutting edge? Before Cody could manage a better look, Oelefse had him peering back the way they had come, watching for—anything that moved toward them, the German cautioned his apprehensive companion. Once felt confident that the archaeologist was alert, Oelefse began prune selected leaves from the largest the several blue bushes, wielding the knife with a surgeon’s skill. One one, the excised leaves were placed a waiting plastic bag. Soon the bag itself began glow with incredibly opulent, vivid blue light. Anxious return the unfamiliar weapon its owner, Cody nonetheless did his best keep a sharp eye the outlandish, exotic landscape. Despite his resolution, his attention was continually being distracted shimmering, lazily perambulating perceptions incomprehensible beauty. A line flickering green veils danced across his field vision, drifting from right left like dancers some ethereal slow-motion ballet. Emerald stars twinkled within their slender, diaphanous bodies and they stared him out eyes that were wandering bits comet. Lumps phosphorescent orange trundled along the ground, living diadems gold and glistening padparaschah. Everywhere looked there was light and color and coruscating brilliance, had stepped into a world permanently bathed cold fire. Overhead, growths that were not plants shivered with ecstasy beneath the rain lambent moonbeams. Some moaned softly while others were silent. felt himself adrift visual Debussy. Only something like gravity kept him bound the earth; otherwise felt certain would have taken flight, soaring skyward while born aloft streamers scintillating aurora. Alerted some subtle shift his companion’s manner, Oelefse glanced from his work. “Beauty kills reminded Cody curtly. “ this place even daydreaming can deadly His thoughts wrenched back reality his companion’s cool tone, the archaeologist blinked away incipient fantasies. “I’m , Oelefse. Tend your snipping. How much longer “Almost done. Almost have enough resumed his horticultural cropping. was a song that finally snared Cody. Not some beauteous wayward shape, not something glistening the ground that dropped diamonds its wake, but a melody. A hymn pure could only arise from a source immaculate and unsullied. Entranced, stepped forward, certain that long kept Oelefse sight neither them was any real danger. had find the source that unearthly music. hung the air behind a baobab-shaped organic tower through which lights ran from bottom top before sparking off into the enchanted sky. outline the singer was amorphous, a hovering mass shifting transparent silk some ten feet tall. Within its core, chanting crystals swam like bioluminescent squid a dark Pacific night. Each emitted a slightly different tune and color. Combined, they melded create a transcendent harmony that tantalized both ear and mind. A chorus trained angels could not have

generated euphonious a sound. Later, was not sure fell into , ate him. was suddenly and unexpectedly engulfed. A thickness, rancid and cloying, clogged his nostrils and threatened fill his throat with mephitic glue. The singing crystals had become small round suckers lined with barbed teeth. They were drifting toward him, opening and closing with a horrid pulsing that suggested the muscular action unmentionable orifices. Abruptly frantic, tried get away, only find that could hardly move. was trapped something like glistening, transparent gelatin. severely inhibited his movements and restricted his ability defend himself. could not even bring the weapon still held tightly one hand bear the vicious, degenerate mouth-shapes that were advancing inexorably toward him. A ringing filled his ears. was loud and insistent, but not unbearable. felt himself beginning torque the protoplasmic material which was embedded responded the rising whine. There was nothing could stop . His body curved, then bent the middle, forcing him arch backward until thought his spine would snap. The fanged suckers had ceased their movement toward him and were swirling about aimless confusion. Still the whine intensified, until reached a profound level auditory disturbance. Then the world exploded. rather, the Interloper that had engulfed him did. Coated with clamminess, found himself sprawled upon the ground. Their internal glow muted, the brilliant singing crystals were crawling away all directions, seeking shelter the surrounding scintillating growths. Whenever blinked, they would change from exquisite crystals obscenely pulsating fanged suckers, and back again. Oelefse was standing over him, briefcase one hand and a most peculiar-looking tuning fork the other. was the source the ascending whine that had disturbed Cody but had proven fatal the organism that had enveloped him. Abashed, rose slowly and tried wipe the clamminess from his exposed skin. “I’m sorry. was— distracted “The chant the Acryalaq lulling, but Interloper like any other The older man indicated their fairytale surroundings. “ their own dimension, whatever place this and however one chooses label , they take a beauty that striking false. Here, only our being alien protects . react, draw too much attention ourselves, then our intrusion becomes magnified, like the beating a drum. become the Interlopers their world something like what they become ours held the tuning fork. had a visually disorienting shape, there were three bars the fork instead the usual two. The optic confusion tormented Cody’s eyes. Oelefse smiled. “People have sketched this little device for years, thinking more than optical illusion. Only the master craftsmen the Society know how actually make one. The vibrations can deadly Those Who Abide. They are more profoundly affected sound than the usual variety prosaic physical assaults “ Kelli’s hospital room, the rattle and your singing were what drew them out Cody remembered. The older man nodded. “Laughter too has its own distinctive pitch. Why you think music has traditionally been thought have medicinal effects? does! The right sort intolerable Interlopers. Among composers, Brian, Bantock, Janacek, Mahler, Tournemeire, Pingold, Beethoven, and a few others have been shown have particularly therapeutic effects. Germany, a group called Scorpions often used hit just the right notes. There are many more continued tolerantly. “ you understand, are not helpless, not even against that which most people invisible looked past the embarrassed archaeologist. “Now must hurry leave. The act your being momentarily fed upon has alerted this place the actuality our intrusion

“I’m sorry Still wiping himself, Cody hustled along the other man’s wake. “I don’t feel partly consumed “How about unhappy, downcast, dispirited “Well, yes, but that’s because I acted such a thoughtless, stupid manner “ not. because you were temporarily affected the Acryalaq. feed upon the depression and sorrow mankind our world, Interloper must swallowed a human body. feed upon you here, the Acryalaq must swallow you “What Cody gulped hard, “What would have happened been able rescue

your tuning fork hadn’t worked, you hadn’t

“You would have fallen into a trancelike state deep despair. Depression, you know, kills more people than most any disease worthy the name, yet still not recognized such many doctors. Through dint perseverance and science, humankind makes progress; a little here, a little there, against Those Who Abide. For the first time, have medicines that can help fight off Interloper infestation. Prozac, for example. Before that, Saint John’s Wort. While these not affect the physical fabric the Interloper, they break down its food. Judicious application such curatives can sometimes starve Interloper death. But not common, and Those Who Abide slowly develop a resistance such drugs and herbal extracts. That why something like Prozac may help a severely depressed person for a while, but not permanently. not that the drug fails; that the inhabiting Interloper Interlopers gradually develop a resistance repeated applications. Music better. laughter. There are beneficial side effects, and both are less invasive. There are better ways alter the chemical composition a person’s mind than with heavy doses immoderate pharmaceuticals Ripples refulgent elegance bowed unfelt breeze first Oelefse and then the archaeologist leaped over them. Silver radiance trailed from Cody’s feet where they had struck the wheat-high growths. From their midst erupted a flurry iridescent, silver-winged sylphs that took the shape orchids with legs. “But everything here beautiful “I know that The older man sprang like a wizened hare between two opalescent, sky-scraping spirals; twinned pairs outgrowths forever entwined intangible love. “ our world beauty deceptive. Here both deceptive and lethal “But down below (Cody’s brain screamed for direction this dimension shimmering sighs and electric silhouettes the Interlopers I perceive are grotesque distortions traditional life forms, all teeth and claws and suckers and clutching tentacles “, perception Oelefse hurdled a log composed glistening strands dew that throbbed like a longitudinal heart. “What you see here truth, and what you see there truth. Your eyes tell you true. your mind that confused. Your experiences with perception should have taught you now: Trust everything that you see, but not how your brain interprets Cody’s thoughts tightened into a Gordian knot. “I don’t understand “You will, I hope— you live long enough. And careful where you wave that pistol With a start, Cody realized was still clutching the wide-mouthed weapon that Oelefse had used earlier. Gripping even tighter, raised into firing position. didn’t know was armed loaded; still, made him feel that was not entirely helpless, nor completely dependent for his survival one elderly, somewhat punctilious German. Oelefse continued hold the now silent tuning fork out front him like a sword. was better than that, Cody knew. Here, a blade was useless, and probably bullets too. Sound was the ammunition they could not afford extinguish.

His usually reliable sense direction having long since deserted him (being engulfed whole has that effect people was amenable following Oelefse’s lead. Certainly, the older man seemed know where was going, though the archaeologist felt they were taking awfully roundabout route back the stairwell that led the corridors Hohensalzburg Castle. maybe was just his aching legs that made him feel that way. The blue leaves! The cobalt-hued bracts the ilecc! had seen Oelefse place them one one a plastic bag, but where was the briefcase, you idiot, told himself. His knowledgeable companion would not carry precious a cargo loose one hand. Surely the leaves were inside the briefcase. any event, having run far from the place where the bushes grew, was not about reveal his ignorance wondering aloud Oelefse had left them behind. The older man’s mind was full overflowing, but the time they had spent together Cody could not remember his guide exhibiting any especial tendency forgetfulness. Relying was the other man preserve their lives, Cody had choice but trust him the vital matter a handful blue leaves. They were better off the German’s possession anyway, the archaeologist mused. least Oelefse had managed not get himself eaten. “ are almost there Now the older man’s tone was showing signs fatigue. They were the words Cody had been waiting hear. His fears, the ache his legs, faded noticeably. A quick plunge down the aurorarimmed aperture and they would safely back their own world. True, they still had confront the alerted Interlopers who dwelled there, but least his environs would not sway, and moan, and sing songs vaporous, virulent loveliness. The world might reflect, but would not glow, and there would only one moon hanging the bilious sky. Oelefse slowed and the archaeologist, who had experienced difficulty keeping with the shorter, older man, had put the brakes avoid running right over the top his guide. Perspiring profusely the dual moonlight, expensive briefcase grasped tightly one fist and gleaming metal fork the other, looked like a mad piano tuner stalking some fabled feral Steinway. They stood gasping the middle a small meadow composed transparent shards tinged sapphire and ruby, glistening ankle-high fronds that rustled with a soft, shy radiance. Deeper the jungle shimmering impossibilities, the rising tinkle bells heralded the approach unseen dynamics lethal they were beautiful. The ground began shake beneath the gathering forces that were without weight but not devoid substance. The stairwell was gone. order cover more ground they separated, but were careful stay within clear sight one another. Overhead, the splay unfamiliar stars assumed ominous cast, and the distance something mewled obscenely. From within the density flickering, glittering growths, small hungry lives looked expectantly. Tired and anxious, the two men met the far side the coruscant field. “ have find Oelefse was breathing with some difficulty. For the first time since they had entered the dimensionality the Interlopers, looked his age. “ the only way back His gaze was focused the high, waving fronds twinkling transparency that surrounded the meadow, and the sound tinkling bells that was drawing steadily nearer. “And have find fast. have become too conspicuous Panting, Cody turned and gestured helplessly. “I’ve been over every foot ground half. There isn’t even a rabbit hole “ apt choice words, young friend Oelefse started back toward the center the meadow. “Come— must look again

“Couldn’t hide the forest— whatever this —until it’s safe come out His guide shook his head sharply. “There place here for hide, Cody Westcott. stink alternate reality followed the other man, the archaeologist kept his gaze the ground, searching desperately for any suggestion a hollow opening. “We’re not exactly defenseless. have your pistol, and the tuning fork. And can always fight back with laughter “Have you ever seen a person overwhelmed deep depression Oelefse challenged him. “Terminal melancholy rendered a solid, motile form instead a feeling not a pretty sight. can prostrate even a professional comedian nodded the direction the approaching tintinnabulation. “I not want standing here waiting greet when arrives Watched all the while, they continued their desperate search. there had ever been a hole the meadow, was now gone, swallowed circumstance, camouflaged coincidence. Camouflaged… Edging away from his tall companion, Oelefse pivoted and rushed back the center the meadow. Cody looked , the elderly German began jumping and down like a maniac—but a maniac whose mania the moment was under control, and brought bear with purpose. “Here Oelefse was shouting excitedly. “Over here, Cody The tinkling, which had grown clanging, was very near now, the meadow was about assaulted army runaway church bells. The archaeologist hurried rejoin his guide. When arrived, disappointment settled him like the reek cheap whiskey. Glittering glassy-grassy, the ground looked the same every square foot they had previously covered. “There’s nothing here commented disappointedly. “There always something there Taking two steps forward, a grimly grinning Oelefse began jump gingerly and down. did , the earth beneath him responded like the surface a too-taut trampoline. Seeing the look the younger man’s face, explained, “Some kind membrane. formed over the opening while were searching for the ilecc bush, like a scab over a wound near Cody could tell, the surface which Oelefse was standing was identical that which surrounded them, right down the glittering mat eight-inch-high multihued growths. “How you know it’s the entrance asked. “Maybe it’s a lure, like the appendage that grows from the forehead the anglerfish indicated the spongy covering. “Maybe that’s the opening a mouth But Oelefse was not listening him. Instead, was staring, focused something beyond the archaeologist’s right shoulder. Cody turned, and beheld the Snark. How describe a sense horror that derives from the sight overpowering beauty? was unable . His voice caught his throat and could only stare. loomed above them, pealing like doom, singing a song shattered desire and overpowering despair. Cody felt himself drawn , inclining toward the pulsating mass jangling lips and bottomless maws, leaning the direction a falling-forward that would have seen him ingurgitated like paste, reduced little more than emotion-bereft human slime. Something grabbed his left wrist and pulled. Hard. “Cody—jump! Now longer had any control over his body. His neuromuscular system stood paralyzed the sight and sound the bells, their beauty and temptation. was, remembered later, akin optical heroin. The sight would haunt him for the rest his days. But would not consume him. Not today.

Losing his balance, felt himself yanked backward. Who would have thought look Oelefse that there were such reserves physical strength that well-preserved but unassuming patrician body? Tuning fork shoved his pocket, briefcase gripped securely his left hand, the elderly German had wrenched the much bigger and younger man backward. They tumbled tandem, falling hard against the very spot where Oelefse had chosen his demonstrative bouncing. they fell, a murderous pealing reached for them. There was a tender, ripping sound, a bedsheet splitting down the middle the distance. Blackness descended. Cody’s head slammed against something unyielding and did a little bouncing its own. A different class stars from those that had pockmarked the heavens elsewhere filled his vision. Oelefse had landed his side and was now rolling a sitting position. took him a minute find his flashlight. was dead silent, the archaeologist noted, which was a prohibitive improvement the silence the dead. soon the older man’s light winked life, Cody’s slowly clearing vision revealed walls cut stone, the same material that was presently cushioning his backside. looked familiar, was familiar. They were back the chamber, back Festung Hohensalzburg. Back their own reality. Overhead— one stood precisely the center the chamber and listened intently—there was a barely audible, distant clinking tiny bells. might have been a baffled, frustrated roaring. Cody sensed that his ears were not working too well. A consequence the blow the back his head occasioned his fall, doubt. “How come can break through the barrier but they can’t was startled the sound his own voice the echoing chamber. “ all a matter relativity, friend Standing straight not tall, Oelefse was brushing himself off. “Remember, active this world every Interloper needs a host, and enter a host they must first exist a vector indicated their cold, comfortingly solid surroundings. “This stonework uncontaminated, and has stood thus for hundreds years. Otherwise would not possible make use such a portal Reaching , clapped his companion the back. “Enough sightseeing, ? are alive, uninfected, and have secured the blue leaves the ilecc. time depart “I’m with you, Oelefse Fumbling a pocket, Cody found and extracted his own flashlight. Together they started off down the corridor. Behind them, distant outrage took the form a momentary incursion fetid fairy-dust that rapidly and unobserved evanesced from the chamber. They emerged last into the subdued light a quarter moon, the walls the fortress buildings towering sentinel-like above them. “What now Around them, all was silent and still. was too late and they were too high hear much the sound the city below. Somewhere distant, the horn a Peugeot blared mournfully. was hauntingly ordinary, immediate, that Cody wanted cry. Had the unknowing driver been within reach, the grateful archaeologist would have hugged him. “ down, course. Back our nice, comfortable, Interloper-free hotel. Back reality, although are back now, even does support within its walls the weight ages Strength and confidence regained, the elderly German chose a path that would take them toward the main entrance. “ cannot leave the tourist gate, course. will locked. But there a small gate that used people who work here smiled. “The Society has a key. leads a separate path that negotiable even the dark. Going down, will easy Feeling quietly triumphant, Cody walked effortlessly alongside his guide. They had been a place where man was not meant , and had survived return. And now they had the makings a medicine drive out the horror that continued abide within his beloved. was feeling very good.

“What about the night watchman? Won’t wonder what we’re doing here “What night watchman? When not use, the fortress sealed and inaccessible. There need for night watchmen within long the entrance patrolled outside “Then who the suddenly uneasy archaeologist murmured raised a hand and pointed, “ that

Fourteen Oelefse halted sharply. Shambling toward them the pale moonlight were more than a dozen human figures diverse shape and substance could imagined. A baker’s wife advanced alongside off-duty airline pilot, who turn was flanked a taxi driver. old woman traditional Tyrolean garb was escorted a pair extensively pierced teens a quarter her age. There were construction workers and a second-form teacher, assistant brewmaster and a tour guide. Other than their presence there together the venerable fortress the middle the night, they had only silence common. That, and the fact that they carried rocks. Some bore only one rock, others two more. The rocks had something common, too. They were tenanted. “Away Clutching the immobilized archaeologist’s arm, Oelefse was pulling him backward, back the way they had come. “They are armed The gaping archaeologist could see that. truth told, the eccentric grouping they were confronting was heavily, unnaturally armed. Because every stone they carried was home and vector a sojourning Interloper. Tendrils writhed, tentacles clutched, multiple mouths snapped, and eyes variously rolled, bulged, blinked, and gaped. the self each the dull-visaged, shambling, stumbling Austrians dwelled one more controlling Interlopers. Exerting themselves the maximum which they were capable, they had assumed control their respective hosts. Equipping themselves with weapons the form vectored others their hostless, hungry kind, they had come looking for the healthy humans who had dared make the passage between planes existence. had been decided that immediate infection would the reward the trespassers, ceaseless melancholy their destiny. this judgment, Cody and Oelefse were determined not concur. Their assailants advanced slowly, almost ponderously, like marionettes being operated inexperienced, clumsy puppeteers. But not slowly that evading them would easy. Once more, Cody and his elderly companion would have stand and fight. readied himself. They were not defenseless. They still had the pistol and the tuning fork. Oelefse had something more substantial mind. Opening his briefcase, withdrew not one but two tuning forks, placing the one had been carrying carefully back into its waiting strap. Like their smaller predecessor, the new pair removed had been drop-forged gleaming, highly polished steel. Each was long the briefcase was wide, nearly the length the older man’s forearm. “Have you ever used a sword, friend Cody responded with a short laugh that was not forced. “Sure. Every day, during lectures. And also when I’m the field, remind the local help who’s charge and keep them from getting too cocky Oelefse muttered himself. “The old arts die the wayside and are replaced the new. I suppose I offered you a video-game joystick you would able handle blindfolded. Here handed Cody one the two gleaming devices. The archaeologist hefted his experimentally. was solid, and gratifyingly heavy.

“Surely you have least seen some movies Assuming the stance a trained fencer wielding saber instead foil epee, Oelefse speedily demonstrated a few basic moves. “Like this, see? not try get fancy. Cut and slash, cut and slash, keep your distance Their assailants became visible again, advancing around a precipitous wall solid stone. Mute and focused, they hefted their adulterated stones expectation. “ all costs you must avoid contact with one the contaminated rocks “I know that much Cody snapped irritably. was not a child. “How long can just keep retreating Oelefse glanced skyward. “Not long enough. They know that. I not think even the presence curious tourists would sufficient forestall assault this group. Their abiding Interlopers seem very determined. Our presence here has upset them even more than I presumed When grinned, looked twenty years younger. “That alone justification enough for our visit Halting, reached for something and passed his younger companion. “Here, this will very useful Cody looked down the lid from a plastic garbage can that his companion had handed him. “ throw this “ Oelefse held a lid his own. “They will serve shields against flying stones and their inimical inhabitants lowered the triple tip his tuning fork. “Those Who Abide can nothing with plastic. Now come: before they think try and encircle . They will not expecting attack Neither was Cody, but rushed forward alongside his elderly guide, trying his best imitate the other man’s movements. When Oelefse swung his long tuning fork downward strike the ground and set ringing, the archaeologist did the same. felt utterly absurd, swinging the metal rod front him, holding the slightly aromatic plastic disk his other hand like extra the rear a battle scene some cheap Italian sword-and-sandal flick. Somehow Oelefse managed hang onto his briefcase well the garbage can lid had appropriated for his own defense. “Watch out Even Oelefse shouted a warning, was raising his improvised shield. The first rocks came flying. Each sprouted various combinations unearthly but deadly arms and limbs and teeth, anxious sink themselves into the vulnerable essence the two onrushing humans. One fistsized chunk slammed into the plastic disk Cody was carrying, only bounce harmlessly off the side, the nebulous limbs its resident Interloper flailing furiously. Without actual physical contact between stone and human flesh, could not escape its granitic prison. Confronted a raver-rocker-student, the archaeologist swung the singing tuning fork her direction. Not the young woman, but the stone she was carrying. The danger lay within that uneven rock, not her vacant, disconcerted gaze. Something with a mouth three sizes too large for its body and a quartet bony arms reached toward Cody from the depths the rock. Clutching fingers clawed briefly his shoulders and chest with false damp, chilling him slightly. the teen thrust the stone forward attempt touch Cody’s ribs, the oversized tuning fork made contact with the softly moaning, clutching Interloper. Light reminiscent the pseudo-bioluminescence had seen the other side the stairwell exploded his face, a momentarily blinding burst violent yellow and green. sound accompanied the detonation, concussion rocked his eardrums rattled his nervous system. More disoriented than , the student stumbled backward. Dazed but determined, pursued and thrust the tuning fork her exposed midriff, making light contact with the smooth skin just above her ring-bearing navel. A second burst light engulfed her, she had swallowed a flare. Insensate and silent, spewed vertically into the night sky her inhabiting Interloper vanished a blast cold crimson embers. After months avoiding and dodging, had finally slain one Those Who Abide. felt good. Real good.

the young woman fainted harmlessly the ground, unconscious but cleansed, the others tried surround the two men. Transparent tentacles only the imperiled could see thrashed and flailed impotent rage. Mouths snapped and bit flesh they were determined feed upon from the inside out. Bodies dipped and thrust. But their movements were sluggish. took time for them respond the commands and directives those abiding within them. Though outnumbered, Cody and Oelefse reacted with a speed and sense purpose their internally dominated antagonists could not match. Interlopers traditionally infected other humans through stealth and accident. The kind frontal assault they were attempting mount within the castle walls was proving clumsy its execution. That did not make any less deadly, Cody knew. A single extended contact with Interloper-bearing rock was all that would necessary render him helpless their hapless attackers, afflicted his poor Kelli. Keeping a firm grip his garbage can lid, which had long since ceased a source dry amusement, swung and stabbed with the tuning fork. Interloper-laden chunk smooth-sided river rock was rammed his direction. With growing confidence, swung the tuning fork the squat, particularly ugly Interloper that was frothing forth from its surface. The three-pronged device sliced through its midsection. Nothing happened. There was outburst brilliant light, despairing moan the Interloper shriveled and died. continued claw him, its grasping fingers passing repeatedly through the flesh and bone his arm. Backing , brought his arm down, catching the hideous manifestation with a strong backswing. The second blow had more effect that the first. Pushing forward, the middle-aged man holding the stone came within inches touching Cody’s right thigh. Steel flashed the moonlight, slicing the mewling Interloper half. blew and died a satisfying shower sparks and silent energetic discharges. Oelefse was Cody’s side, shouting him. “ not forget strike your fork against the pavement from time time, Cody Westcott! Not every useful device this world powered batteries, you know Swinging his shield around, caught a flung, Interloper-inhabited stone and bashed aside returned the fray. Cody did not forget again. From then took every opportunity bounce the tips the tuning fork off the paving stones beneath his feet. and Oelefse battled , a strange sort exhilaration overtook him. was more than a surge endorphins. Hundreds years ago, thousands other men had done battle these castle walls, with sword and spear and shield. They had been fighting one another, but how many had done under the influence unseen, unsuspected Interlopers? How many Those Who Abide had been present such times carnage, fattening themselves the ultimate human misery that was war? Now was doing the same, fighting save himself and his wife alongside old man whose store knowledge was exceeded only his uncommon energy and determination. Only, they were not fighting with their own kind, but with the unseen instigators a vast proportion human woe. Instead watching while Oelefse chanted and played, was finally striking back himself, and a fashion that was visually well physically inspiring. Somewhere a far distant grave, felt, a long-dead Chachapoyan shaman two might looking with pride carried the fight that the Chachapoyans had waged and eventually lost. “ look, honey The well-dressed woman clutched her husband’s arm and pointed. Raising his glance, her husband followed the direction her stare. “It’s beautiful, isn’t Clinging his arm, she hugged him tight. Equally well-attired, and sated from a fine late-night supper, her spouse frowned contemplated the

flurry colored lights that were flaring forth from the ramparts Hohensalzburg Castle. With a gesture and some weak German, intercepted a pedestrian heading the other way. “Excuse , sir When the man stopped, the husband gestured castleward. “What does this show signify “Show, show His stroll interrupted, the Salzburger turned look the same direction the two visiting Britons. When saw the intermittent glare, his face creased into a frown beneath his hat. “That strange. I had not heard a show being scheduled for the fortress tonight “They put such light and sound shows, though the woman ventured hesitantly. “ , , many times during the year. Light and sound, sometimes telling the history the fortress, sometimes recalling the many wars the past His frown did not away. “ wife and I and our friends come sometimes see them ourselves. Though, living here, one grows used such events squinted upward, the towering bulwark ancient stone. “Odd for the city have one a Thursday night With a shrug, turned away. “Perhaps a special, unscheduled presentation for some visiting dignitary. Who can say? I wish you a good night Long after the citizen had vanished down the narrow street, the two tourists stood watching until last the spray light and color high came end. Pleased their unexpected good fortune, they turned and resumed the stroll that would take them back their hotel. They had another story, another detail add the history their vacation with which regale their friends when they returned Birmingham. Concerning the true nature what they had just witnessed, a battle for the minds and bodies two their fellow humans that was unprecedented recent European history, they had not inkling. was historical pageant, nor a compilation preprogrammed recordings and strobe-light effects. They had been spectators instead one battle invisible but incessant war. this they knew nothing: only that they regretted the absence their camera, left a drawer back their hotel. Unaware that their fight preserve their independence and humanity had been viewed from below a charming entertainment, a visual bagatelle, a casual diversion for the meandering curious, Cody and Oelefse put aside their shields they went from body body, consoling a cluster fellow humans diverse they were presently bewildered. All had survived the excision their resident Interlopers, struck from their selves cleanly one infestation after another had been blasted from their vectoring rocks. near the two perceiving men could tell, not a single one Those Who Abide had survived the brawl, not those inhabiting dominated human bodies nor those residing hopefully stone. Their respective humans now stood free and uncontaminated, unaware ever that they had only moments ago been grievously infected something they could not see, hear, feel. the last man and woman, however, they now suffered from a severe but not serious collective headache. Only when was certain not one Interloper had survived the desperate conflict did Oelefse retrieve the long tuning fork from his young companion and slip back into its holding straps inside the briefcase. Following Cody’s with his own, snapped the case shut and prepared resume the planned nocturnal departure from the fortress that had been contentiously interrupted. Ambling downhill alongside the older man, the winded archaeologist wiped perspiration from his face and neck. Glancing backward the direction their dazed former assailants, wondered aloud their immediate fate. “For them, will like waking from a dream Oelefse gestured and they turned the right, off the main avenue and down a narrower side path. “They will look one another and begin question what happened them, why they are here. None will have a proper explanation. When morning comes and the castle reopens tourists, they will stumble back down their jobs and homes. The ache now pummeling

their heads will last more than a day. nightfall there will not one among them who does not feel better, healthier, and happier visited a hearty slap the archaeologist’s back. “ a good thing have done here tonight, young friend! the course saving ourselves, have also helped others Cody nodded pensively. Already a faint suggestion light had appeared the eastern sky, foreshadowing the dawn. “Now can only help Kelli “ shall, shall, friend The older man tapped his briefcase. “ have gone such excursion few men ever dream , and returned alive, and with the blue leaves the ilecc safely our possession the strengthening light, his wink was easy make out. “ will back America, your dry and well-paved desert, and Heaven, will make some tea “Tea Cody murmured. “I wondered how you were going use the leaves. And the way: you know where I can get a briefcase like that one indicated the still immaculate, unscratched case Oelefse cradled beneath his left arm. “Like this His guide shrugged. “ only a briefcase. Surely your home city there are establishments that sell similar attaches “Similar, maybe, but not the same Cody was eyeing the old man closely. “ seems hold a lot more than should “ the contrary, young friend, holds more than should. But you really want one, well, I will see what I can . Our supplier somewhat exclusive smiled encouragingly. “Exclusive, elusive Cody smiled back. Not all the wonders had encountered Oelefse’s company were overwhelming. The smaller ones had their own unique attractions. Oelefse was stating the obvious when remarked that their activities seemed have drawn a good deal unwanted attention. Consequently, put a much greater effort and spent a good deal more time planning their return America than had their departure. Instead flying directly home, and despite Cody’s desire not spend a moment more than was necessary travel, the old man insisted taking a roundabout route with multiple stops. was that they drove, not back Vienna, but Zurich, keeping a wary eye the stone ramparts the Alps through which they cruised. From Zurich they boarded a plane going Madrid, from there flew Miami, and only then did Cody find himself a flight heading homeward. Exhausted his European ordeal, but elated the prospect having his wife restored him, the archaeologist made a conscious effort relax the plane. expected Oelefse the same, but his elderly companion was a composed, controlled, ceaselessly active ball white-haired energy. Most notably, the first thing Oelefse did subsequent boarding was put a request look the cockpit. This was a treat usually reserved for youngsters, but charming and persuasive was the genteel German that the flight crew acceded his request. Cody was not surprised. Oelefse had made the same petition the beginning every flight they’d made. Not view the cockpit and learn about its controls, but ensure his own satisfaction that member the flight crew was contaminated something that might compromise their safe journey. When the archaeologist had questioned him about this particular interest, Oelefse had been quick explain. “Occasionally, commercial aircraft are lost for apparent reason, young friend. They report some minor problem, say they are dealing with , and the next thing you know, you are watching the appalling details the evening news. has happened planes from every major international airline. Except one, and there a specific reason for that “Interlopers Cody had responded without prompting. And Oelefse had nodded. made all too much sense. the course airplane crash, the food despair would present plenty. Only the fact that was

short, intense, duration kept a greater number such catastrophes from taking place. did not make for reassurances they boarded one plane after another. Oelefse assessed the flight crew the pretense examining the cockpit, Cody’s thoughts were only his wife. There had been contact with the hospital Scottsdale since had left for Europe. What was her current status? Had her condition changed for the better? For the worse? But for his guide’s admonition, would have called find out. “You never know who the other end the line, friend the old man had warned him. “You never know what abides within them, waiting and ready partake whatever information well whatever -happiness may come its way. Better that you should wait, difficult I know must for you , until you are once more your wife’s bedside. Then you can make your inquiries with a better assurance receiving truthful answers the agitated archaeologist let only his eyes make contact with one public phone after another, both Europe and their return the States. His car was waiting, dusty but undisturbed, where had been left the covered parking facility. ought home first, knew. There would bills pay ensure that vital utilities were not shut off, and phone messages answer. None them meant anything anymore. Only Kelli was important. Only Kelli mattered. was not necessary for Oelefse able read thoughts. could read the intentions the younger men his eyes, his attitude, and his gestures. Leaving the airport, they rushed along the freeways until the time came exit, not for the Westcotts’ neighborhood, but for the broad commercial plain that boasted among its many large, wholly air-conditioned buildings the hospital which Kelli Westcott had been committed. They were pulling into the parking lot when Cody shouted oath and slammed the brakes. The hospital loomed directly ahead, a shining fortress pink and white concrete, glass, and steel girded half-filled parking lots. Overhead, the late summer sun burned mercilessly, heedless man’s efforts tame the desert unrolling across his pathetic little strips asphalt and schools, strip malls and cookie-cutter housing developments. Blocking the entrance the hospital was a veritable company Interlopers. Three thousand tendrils flailed the direction the car carrying the two men. A thousand unearthly mouths every imaginable size, shape, and dentition probed and pulsed their direction. Unclean protuberances puckered and drooled from the midst the virulent mass while coarse antennae traced twitching, jerking patterns the air. The writhing mass otherworldly foulness exuded the stink sorrow. “Why Clinging grimly the wheel, Cody gritted his teeth stared through the windshield and tried decide what next. “Why pick Kelli and “You delved into mysteries that Those Who Abide would prefer keep hidden Oelefse’s tone was gently avuncular. “The more success you have, the more attention you draw yourself. You are a prize taken, you and your wife. knowledge happiness, then the Interlopers have a great many reasons hate you “How can get past that Keeping both hands the wheel unconscious parody the older man’s driving style, Cody considered the mass psychical spoliation that loomed before them. “All hospitals have multiple entrances Oelefse murmured. “Around back Throwing the car into reverse, Cody burned rubber sent them screeching around the north side the medical complex. His was not the only brain recognize the possibility alternate ingress, however. matter how fast the car moved, how skillfully was maneuvered the furious archaeologist, the company Interlopers kept pace. Whenever Cody slowed, that seething mass

tentacles and suckers and bulbous eyes was there block any approach the building. “How come there’s panic Breathing hard, the car idling the suffocating heat afternoon, Cody regarded their rapacious multilimbed adversary. Were they facing dozens Interlopers all crammed tightly together form a barrier, wondered, a single organism monstrous beyond anything they had yet encountered? Without the kind close inspection that was required tell, was a question whose resolution remained out reach. “Those who cannot perceive must see something else. When they choose really exert themselves, the Interlopers can twist reality distressing ways. Usually, a device employed cause accidents and thereby generate fresh misery. But this time—here, try these From a coat pocket Oelefse removed a tiny plastic bottle with a small nipple one end. Squeezing a drop the contents into each eye, blinked reflexively passed the container his companion. Cody eyed the vial uncertainly. “What’s this “Eyedrops. For clarifying one’s vision Without further hesitation additional time-consuming questions, the archaeologist tilted his head back and applied the drops. his vision cleared heard Oelefse’s muted grunt satisfaction. “Perception the older man was muttering, “ everything Squatting directly front them was not some gargantuan multilimbed monster, but rather a monster a truck. The driver the idling eighteen-wheeler wore expression thoroughgoing befuddlement, though more than his sight had been clouded. The load his open-bed vehicle consisted dozens bound-together slabs heavy, earth-red flagstone hauled down from a quarry the northern part the state and destined for points eastward. These were secured vertically the back the flatbed like many dull, ochre, irregularly shaped dinner plates, each the size a dining room table. And every one them was home a resident, hungry, agitated Interloper. The tentacles had not gone away; the suckers and fanged mouths continued snap the air, but now Cody could see that they originated natural stone and not some ponderous otherworldly bulk. They could not move about their own free will. Interloper could that without a host convey . But masking the perception the two men, the Interlopers whose movements were restricted the flat rocks which they dwelled had managed give the impression a highly mobile mob deadly abiders. And controlling the truck’s operator via the Interloper that occupied his thoughts, they were able repeatedly block the approach the hospital Cody and his distinguished friend. Now that the two men knew what they were dealing with, Oelefse proposed that they enter the multilevel parking facility and take the covered, third-level walkway across the hospital, rising many feet above the threatening load truck-borne Interlopers. “They can’t anything this world unless make direct physical contact with the vectors, the rocks, which they’re living Cody recited the mantra aloud even was backing the car slowly away from the haunted big rig. ”Why don’t just walk around the truck “Because while Those Who Abide cannot hurt you emotionally, they still possess the means injure you physically Oelefse gestured forward. “ that truck backs over you, will not make much difference you touch Interloper-infected stone not hard had Cody been concentrating the potential psychic dangers posed the Interlopers that had forgotten about their ability influence their physical surroundings adversely motivating those humans who were thoroughly under their control. Leaving the car the parking facility, the two men hurried and across the covered catwalk that led the hospital proper. Beneath them, dozens enraged Interlopers

fumed and flailed upward from their stone prisons the truck bed. Tendrils and creepers pierced the concrete walkway flutter madly the faces the two determined men. Several clutched Oelefse’s briefcase, but none had the power dislodge much a finger his real-world grasp, impede either man’s stride. Cody walked right through ichorous maw the size a cement mixer without hesitating. Fat, leprous lips contracted around him, passed through him, appeared behind him increased his pace. A brief chill flustered him for less than a few seconds. matter how many times passed through the substance Interloper without suffering any ill effects, remained unnerving, unnatural experience. Moments later, they were safely inside the hospital. Used entering through the main entrance, they were forced pause for a minute reorient themselves. Courteous hospital employees corrected their mistakes and offered helpful suggestions. Soon the expectant travelers were a section the facility Cody thought recognized, hurrying through the pediatrics wing past anxious mothers and wide-eyed children. Had paused a moment consider where was, warning signs would have been raised. But close the woman had not seen weeks, his thoughts were preoccupied. did not take time reflect that any place packed with sobbing, ailing, unhappy children would constitute a natural feeding ground for gluttonous Interlopers. A holdover from simpler times, Lincoln Logs were pre-cut sections tree trunk and tree limb designed fit together form cabins, Western-style forts, and various other child-friendly structures. addition the standard line there were also mini-sets and oversized editions. was one the latter that two prepubescent boys and a girl were presently attempting assemble into a small house. Scattered about the play area were a host yet unused logs, none longer than three feet, with shorter connecting pieces. Reaching for a long log with which complete a wall, one the boys kicked before could reach . perhaps his leg was impelled a force did not understand. The log rolled toward a covey mothers seated behind a low table piled high with a tattered assortment housekeeping, health, and beauty magazines. Striding single-mindedly between knees and kids, Cody barely noticed the toy log rolling toward him. Oelefse slammed into him from behind, throwing him off-balance and knocking him forward. The startled archaeologist had scramble maintain his footing. “What the hell was—?” caught sight the log, broke off, staring. Disapproving his mild profanity, a couple the mothers had glanced from their magazines. When they saw him looking their direction they promptly returned their reading. The oversized, umber-stained, notched wooden dowel had rolled a stop against the foot a young woman her twenties. From within the log a sinuous, two-foot-long shape was oozing out the wood and into her leg. had stubby membranous wings and multiple eyes and a ration gnarled transparent teeth that looked like a plateful overcooked hash browns. Oblivious the infection progress, the woman shuddered slightly, from a sudden chill, and went back her reading. Approaching the log, the little girl who had been helping build the house smiled and murmured something her mother. This brought forth a retort excessively sharp that the child immediately started crying. The other mothers looked but said nothing. was not their child who was being rebuked. Truth told, was not the mother who was doing the berating. longer wholly her own self, she had absorbed the infestation that had been meant for Cody. A small, strong hand was tugging him, and a voice was whispering urgently. “Come, friend. There nothing can for her, and have business elsewhere

Still staring the woman, who now slammed her magazine down hard end table, Cody allowed himself drawn toward the next corridor. Behind him, the children continued fumble innocently with the toy logs, including the quietly sobbing, unfortunate little girl whose mother had now become unwitting host one Those Who Abide. “You must never let down your guard like that. Didn’t I warn you Oelefse’s words were reproving they strode past a tall service cart laden with trays styrene-covered, rapidly cooling food. “I—I wasn’t thinking Cody was simultaneously relieved and embarrassed his narrow escape. After all had been through, both here and overseas, had nearly been trapped a child’s toy. “I thought was probably plastic and I didn’t take a good look His tone was defensive. “Isn’t every other kid’s toy these days made plastic “I suppose you cannot blamed for that. Most everything your country . Europe still believe that children should grow with some toys fashioned from natural materials. you nearly found out, while aesthetically pleasing, that can dangerous. A number the Society’s members work the toy industry solely vet such materials before they can pass into the hands our children “ won’t happen again Cody wondered which them was trying convince. “Not until after have treated your wife, anyway They were the last hall, approaching the room where Kelli Westcott lay stasis. Nothing could stop them now. The intern and nurse they warily passed were clean, and carried nothing that could considered a threat. A young woman, little more than a teenager, was standing outside the door the private room next Kelli’s. her arms she held a softly squalling infant less than a year old. A glance her direction assured the perceptive Cody that she was uncontaminated. close his wife now, had resist the urge break into a run. But running would only have drawn attention, and they were nearly there anyway. passed the teenage mother, absently noted her drawn expression, the lost look her eyes. That was not unexpected a mother sixteen seventeen. What did not, could not, anticipate were the actions the baby. Reaching down a most non-infantile manner, brought something from within its powder blue blanket and threw the archaeologist’s direction with more force than such tiny, undeveloped arms ought possess. Instinctively, flinched. was a rock the size a silver dollar, smooth and shiny had just been plucked from the bed a sparkling mountain stream. From its reddish depths a pair insectlike ovipositors extended outward. the tip each was eye, and a small, piercing mouth. did not even have time shout before struck him the neck.

Fifteen Anyone else mould have felt nothing but the momentary chill. Cody was cursed with the ability see well feel what was happening him. Boring into his neck, the Interloper’s mouths and eyes entered his self, the rest the attenuated, loathsome form following rapidly. flowed out the stone even before that tumbling vector began succumb the pull gravity. the time the rounded rock struck the floor, nearly all the Interloper had passed into the alarmed archaeologist. The distraught young mother barely glanced the direction the staggering professor. A stunned Cody now understood the reason for her distress; she was not and probably had never been infected—but her infant was.

Before could react, something cold and hard smacked him the mouth. Eyes flicking downward, saw Oelefse straining jab something into his face. barely had time recognize before incredible pain shot through his entire system. was he’d suddenly bitten down a live wire and could not open his jaws. nearly fainted from the pain. The older man was there catch him his legs went numb. Once again felt the surprising strength that elderly body. Then his own system responded, recovering from the initial shock, a burst adrenaline helping him regain control his legs. Trembling slightly, found himself leaning against the wall. The far wall, away from the hollow-eyed mother and her malevolently precocious, subtly manipulated child. glared him out beguiled baby eyes, unable assault him further. Looking down, Cody saw the river rock lying innocently the floor. Bending, the young mother picked and handed back her child. The infant took the rock its tiny hands, turning the cool smoothness over and over, cooing and gurgling. What, Cody wondered fearfully, the Interloper that had sprung from the rock into his neck the instant contact? Reaching , felt the skin there. Naturally, there was sign entry, nor would find one a mirror. puncture mark, miniscule wound, millimeter-long telltale gash. Was contaminated? Was even now sequestering itself deep within him, making itself comfortable, adjusting its new surroundings preparatory taking control his thoughts and actions? “You are clean Gazing his young friend, Oelefse took a deep breath. “Though was a near thing Dwindling waves pain dribbled from the archaeologist’s lips like a rapidly receding tide a beach. His jaw throbbed where the old man had struck him. “What did you “I had strike before could establish itself Reaching into his pocket, Oelefse removed a small, familiar object. “I barely had time enough rap this against the wall and smack you the teeth with . apologies for hurting you, but the only way counter the influx Interloper with a greater shock the system Cody considered the small tuning fork and tried not remember exactly how had felt when the rapidly vibrating steel had made contact with the nerves his teeth. “Then it’s dead? Just like the ones killed Salzburg Oelefse nodded. “Christ, I thought head was going come off “ least still your head Turning, Oelefse headed for the last door the left-hand side the corridor. “Come. have tea brew The last obstacle his reunion removed, Cody hurried forward, passing Oelefse and shoving the door the room inward. Instantly, something large and aggressive was his face, shoving him backward and through the doorway. “Who you think you are…sir The man gripping the front the archaeologist’s shirt was not particularly tall, but very wide. “Take easy Cody struggled free himself. His adversary released him, but continued block the doorway with his bulk. “ one gets here who ain’t first been cleared office “Glad hear More relieved than ruffled, Cody strained see past the guard. “Call them, then. I’m Coschocton Westcott, the husband the woman your company was hired keep watch over Less challengingly, added, “She still this room, isn’t she The other man’s expression remained guarded. “Yeah, she’s here. Just stay there a moment Pulling a cell phone from a pocket, called , making Cody and Oelefse stand outside the hall while waited for a reply. Anguished and apprehensive, the archaeologist had choice but wait. There was nothing gained causing a scene that might bring security personnel running.

The guard looked from the phone. “Let’s see some Fumbling for his wallet, Cody produced driver’s license, university identification, and credit cards. After a short exchange over the phone, the guard finally stood aside. “Sorry, . Westcott. Just doing job “Real well, too Cody blurted pushed past him and into the room. Following, Oelefse smiled sympathetically the man. “. Westcott thanks you for your professionalism behalf his wife. You must tired. While are visiting, why not take a small break checked his watch. “ I not mistaken, the hospital caféteria should serving lunch now “I brought lunch. always bring our own. Something hot for a change would nice, though hesitated. “I really oughta wait for relief Oelefse patted him the arm, urging him through the doorway even was pulling shut. “ will here for a while. Everything will all right. . Westcott has been away and not about leave his wife’s side for some time “Well—okay. you’re sure. Who are you, anyway “I his uncle. I your uncle, too “Yeah, right. Funny The guard gazed longingly down the hall. “I’ll back hour. more “Life short, friend. Take two From the gap that remained between closing door and waiting wall, Oelefse smiled encouragingly. “ will here when you return Having seen the guard off, the old man shut the door and stepped into the room. Cody was seated the edge the bed, holding his wife’s left hand. was a tender tableau whose parameters were unchanged from the last time they had visited. The archaeologist was silent, but tears were running down his face. Seeing his mentor approach, Cody struggled control his emotions. “Look her, Oelefse. She’s worse. Don’t you think she looks worse Bending over the bed, the older man considered the inert, softly breathing form. The plastic spaghetti feeding tubes and monitoring cables still ran from her face and body into array medical machinery either side the bed. The beautiful face was paler than remembered , the pulse her wrist lagging. stared, something that was all glaring eyes and gnashing teeth rose from her chest snap him. the same time, half-a-dozen eel-like shapes bit Cody, coiling around his arms and gnawing futilely his face. Both men ignored the ferocious manifestations Those Who Abide. They could not harmed them, just puzzled doctors could not detect the monstrosities their insidious influence the inexplicably nonresponsive patient room 322. Cody almost wished some kind minimal contact with the infesting Interlopers could gained, only could wrap his fingers around the throat least one Those Who Abide, could feel writhe and die beneath him instead under the striking but physically removed vibration one Oelefse’s lethal tuning forks. Impotent influence the two unpolluted visitors, the grotesque, hideous shapes withdrew back into the human they were slowly destroying. Wanting plunge his hands deep into his beloved, drag them out with his bare hands, Cody could only sit her side and hold her hand while Oelefse attended necessary preparations. These were simple and few number. From his briefcase this time withdrew a different kind rattle, narrow and more tubular, decorated with different symbols and feathers the like which Cody had never seen. wondered the kind bird from which they had been plucked— they even belonged any creature

would recognize a bird. contrast their previous visit, Oelefse kept his suit and put paint his face. Setting the rattle aside, removed from the case a tiny, compact coffee brewer German manufacture. Noting the direction his young friend’s gaze, the old man smiled. “This designed make a decent cappuccino even the wilds Mongolia. will, should circumstances demand, also brew tea nodded the direction the door. ”I understand your feelings, having not seen her many days and after much drama, but will benefit her more you keep watch the door rather than hold a hand she cannot feel Reluctant, but deferring the older man’s wisdom, Cody gently let his wife’s limp hand fall back the bed rose and took a stance next the entrance. Recalling a previous similar situation, thoughtfully jammed a chair under the handle tightly could. The miniature brewer hissed softly Oelefse added water from the tap the bathroom. Chanting softly, began crumble between his palms the blue leaves the ilecc and Cody had fought hard acquire. each fragment leaf fell into the rapidly heating water, emitted a single, brief, cobalt-blue spark. Within minutes the water was boiling. Closing the plastic lid, Oelefse raised both arms and began make studied passes over the coffeemaker, his chanting growing louder. Despite the presence the splatter-preventing translucent brown lid, blue sparks continued fly from the fermenting brew, shooting through the protective plastic did not exist. Picking the rattle, Oelefse shook several times over the coffeemaker. There was ultimate burst flames; geyser embers flurry electrical discharges. Ceasing his chant, put the rattle back the briefcase and switched off the brewer. Passing the open container beneath his nose, inhaled but did not taste the final concoction. Cody thought had grown a little brighter the shuttered room, but could not sure. “Ice. need ice. And don’t want call for Without waiting for his young friend respond, Oelefse reentered the bathroom. Leaning one side, Cody could see him place the hot container the sink and run cold water around . More minutes passed, during which the archaeologist tried divide his time between his motionless wife, the door, and Oelefse’s inscrutable actions. When last the old man thought the brew had cooled enough, returned. Objection sprang unbidden Cody’s lips, but said nothing Oelefse carefully removed one the plastic bags supplying glucose solution Kelli’s unmoving form and poured the tea into the bag. Nearly empty, promptly turned dark blue with the tea Oelefse hung back its hook. The cobalt-colored liquid swiftly began flow through the tube and into the ashen arm the comatose woman the bed. Adjusting the controller the tube, the oldster increased the flow maximum. a nurse doctor should walk now, Cody knew … None did. Moving the foot the bed, Oelefse armed himself with rattles both old and new—and waited. Unable restrain himself any longer, Cody finally asked, “ this how it’s usually done “This not ‘usually done young friend. fact, I have never seen done myself. The use the leaves the ilecc described the records the Society. Given the gravity your wife’s condition, I believed from the first time I saw her that this was the only chance she had His lips tightened slightly. “The accounts say that the tea sipped indicated the intravenous tubing that was conveying the precious blue liquid. “Though mouth, throat involved, I estimate the rate ingestion sufficient Cody stared the steady flow cerulean fluid that was sliding from the bag into the arm the woman who meant more him that life itself. Had they really been friendly antagonists once, the high green mountains another continent? seemed long ago. Back when the world had been a safer, saner place.

Both them had been happier the bliss that ignorance brought. They would never, could never, ignorant again, knew. That happy, childish state was denied them even was granted most the rest humankind. Such was the inescapable burden knowledge. “Then you’ve never done this before commented quietly. extravagantly decorated rattle gripped firmly each hand, Oelefse shrugged. “I can still stop this, you wish “And what Cody’s tone was anguished. “I have choice. She has choice His expression pleaded. “ “Not you want her restored you. There other way realm knowledge The archaeologist replied tightly, “Then let her body drink, and Those Who Abide damned The bag was almost completely drained when Kelli’s recumbent form gave a twitch violent was unexpected. Her muscles reacted sharply some inner stimulus. Arching the waist, her whole body rose high off the bed, like a gymnast doing a back bend a wrestler demonstrating a neck bridge. Trembling like electrified wire, she let out a long, extended gasp, she’d been trapped underwater for some time and was expelling every ounce liquid she had swallowed a single furious, heaving exhalation. Emitting a triumphant cry, Oelefse launched into a chant enthusiastic was intense, shaking both rattles the undulating figure the bed, the elegant Continental gentleman Cody knew well transformed once more into a barbarous bishop engaged blessing the uncognizant afflicted. Without waiting for instructions, the younger man leaned over and grabbed his wife’s shoulders, holding her down she surged and sputtered. ambiguous blinking for her, Sleeping Beautyish delicate fluttering eyelids. Her eyes were wide open and staring. What they saw did not know, but far, her range vision did not include him, the old man singing energetically the foot her bed, the room that had been her living tomb for many weeks. They were focused something beyond reality. Holding her arm stationary could leaning his greater weight against , carefully removed the intravenous tubing. Slipping the tubes out her face was more difficult because her head tended jerk uncontrollably from side side, but managed accomplish that well. Seeing her freed from that medicinal Gordian knot plastic piping was almost encouraging her movements. The removal the drips that had kept her alive did nothing slow her movements. anything, they allowed her convulse more explosively than ever. Though outweighed her a hundred pounds, several occasions her arching form lifted him right off the bed. Full Those Who Abide she was—and now they were coming out. Not voluntarily, not see what was happening, but because they were being forcibly purged. And they were not happy about . Flying eel-shapes that were half-slavering jaws spurted from her widely parted lips. They flickered brilliantly the subdued light the hospital room, bursts anemic blue and green light running the length their malformed bodies like sickly lightning. Upon contacting either the two men, instead passing through them they normally would, they recoiled singed. Drifting, floating aimlessly, they sought refuge. But the sterile room there was defenseless host available for the taking, natural vector which they could find temporary haven. They began die. One one, the blinding light exploding blue and green flares filled the room. Though their aspect was wholly sinister, the volatile passing the Interlopers reminded Cody colored strobe lights flashing a discotheque. Except that strobe lights did not moan when they were turned off, and did not bestow individual looks hatred upon those dancing beneath them. A corpulent, one-armed shape devoid flesh emerged from the vicinity Kelli’s stomach. hideous was

appearance, overwhelmingly gross, that Cody drew back slightly spite himself. But did not let his wife. this worked and she was restored him, he’d vowed, would never let her again. The deformed abomination waddled clear the young woman’s body a quartet squat, porcine legs. Bleating threateningly, hopped froglike down the length her blanketed body, heading straight for the sing-songing Oelefse. The old man was ready for . When leaped him, with a mouth wide its entire body agape, Oelefse brought both rattles together either side the bloated, lop-sided skull. ruptured and died a spectacular bloom silent fireworks. Greenish fragments Interloper clung briefly the German’s face and shoulders before fading away nothingness, like embers thrown off a dying fire. was the last the Interlopers that had been dwelling within Kelli Westcott, and its incendiary passing coincided with the easing her violent convulsions. Held and comforted her husband’s arms, she began settle down. Her back longer arched acutely, and her eyelids began flutter. Gradually, her respiration steadied. Oelefse’s chant faded into the aural distance ethereally one orchestrated Hoist. The movements his hands slowed, the rhythmic chattering the two rattles quieted considered the young woman breathing almost normally the bed. Stopping, carefully placed the two rattles back the briefcase. was once more quiet ordinary hospital room. “Kelli Leaning toward his recumbent wife, a solicitous Cody Westcott moistened his lips, hardly daring breathe. “Kelli, can you hear Eyes open, head framed her halo shoulder-length hair, she turned toward him. Still trembling, her lips struggled form words. “Cody? That you, isn’t ? , Cody Throwing his arms around her shoulders and back, tears streaming down her face, lifted her upper body out the bed, trying hard not crush her with the trembling force his grateful embrace. Though weak from lack activity, she reciprocated, her own arms going under his hold him tightly she was able. She was crying, too. A paternal smile his face, Oelefse looked wordlessly. Such moments required commentary. Turning away from the restored couple, glanced around the room. There was nothing hiding the shadows glowering malevolently from the corners. was once again all that a hospital room should : clean, hygienic, and uncontaminated. Realizing she was still weak and needed room breathe, Cody reluctantly broke the embrace. “There were too many times, hon, when I wondered this moment would ever come. When I wondered swallowed with difficultyI’d ever hear your voice again She was staring straight him. “I don’t even know what happened, Cody “Interlopers. Those Who Abide. Remember patronizing efforts explain them you? You were infected. Real bad. Were you— pain “I don’t remember. I don’t think , but I really can’t remember. Everything just one big haziness and a vague feeling bad dreams She continued stare him. “Then there finally was some pain, and I woke , and now you’re here Her voice fell slightly. “I don’t think I’ll challenging you the existence these things any time again soon. How long—how long have I been asleep “You’ve been this hospital room for weeks. How long exactly I don’t know offhand. I’d have check the calendar. I’ve been busy with friend Oelefse trying find something that would cure you, would drive the Interlopers out your system. While you were a coma we’ve been all the way Europe and back and now Realization caused him break off abruptly. She was still staring him, only—she was not staring him. Something was wrong. Very wrong. took effort will for him voice the question that

could longer avoided. “Kelli? You—you can’t see , can you Her hands reached out him, once more gripping his arms. A sorrowful smile creased her weary but still beautiful face. “Yes I can, Cody. memory fills the blank places Cursing under his breath, fighting back the emotions that threatened overwhelm him, the archaeologist turned a beseeching face his friend. “Oelefse, what this? I thought she would fully restored: both and herself. —it’s a temporary condition, isn’t ? It’s just going take a little while for her sight return, right Having closed and latched his attaché case the elderly German now moved forward study the figure sitting the bed. Taking Kelli’s face his hands, gently manipulated and fro, peering into her open, staring eyes. She bore the examination silence. Internally, Cody was agony. “I not know Holding his chin, a concerned Oelefse straightened gazed speculatively the revived woman seated helplessly before him. “This I did not anticipate. There nothing the literature about . Though cases such severe infestation, side effects should expected “Side effects the space a few minutes, the archaeologist’s emotions had run the gamut from exhalation dismay. “Oelefse—she’s blind “Possibly. perhaps her sight merely limited. Tell , dear, can you see anything? Anything all? Can you distinguish between light and dark “It’s very strange, . Oelefse Turning slowly, Kelli scanned the room. “I wasn’t going say anything because I thought I was having some kind hallucinations. But—maybe they’re not hallucinations Turning face Cody, who had not stirred from her side, she smiled. “I wish now I’d been less critical about your comments and observations, Cody “You can see things? Like what Taking her hand his, squeezed gently. “Don’t afraid, love. Whatever that you’re seeing, tell . won’t laugh. God knows won’t laugh. Not after what saw Europe “Well She was still reluctant. “Over there, for example She raised her other hand and pointed. “ looks like the top a forest, only the trees aren’t trees. They’re like oversized houseplants, only they have colored lights running and down their sides, and hardly any branches, and they keep weaving back and forth like they’re trying hypnotize something. The tips the branches are spitting cold fire Her hand shifted. “And over there are a bunch balloons with tentacles and eyes, only they keep flashing like neon signs, and the eyes are the ends the tentacles. And next them something like a “Gott Himmel Oelefse murmured when she had concluded her description the sights she saw around her, “her ability view the world around her has been transposed. She seeing into the plane existence you and I visited Hohensalzburg! This most remarkable Cody was shaking his head, “This crazy! How can that

the very gesture could make the bad dream had stepped into away.

“ I said. Side effects. Because the danger and difficulty involved obtaining them, the leaves the ilecc are rarely put use. one ever knows for certain exactly what will result from their application “Well, something! She can’t live like this. Besides, what —what the Interlopers their elsewhere can now perceive her! Won’t they come after her “Just because she can see them and they her does not mean physical contact will result Oelefse continued watch Kelli, observing every gesture, noting the tiniest reaction. “This most interesting “Interesting, hell Cody bawled. “Fix ! Give her back her normal sight, her vision this world. Our world

Oelefse was slowly tapping a perfectly manicured index finger against his lower lip. “ could very useful, this. Someone who fully sighted the Interlopers’ reality The look that came over the archaeologist’s face quickly had the older man making placating gestures. “Take easy, young friend. I was only speculating. a scientist, you must understand that “I understand only that I went Hell and back get wife restored , and I want all her restored. Every iota. Every cell and sense. That includes her vision reality. I want able look into her eyes again and see them looking back —not some unearthly, translucent irregularity “Excuse , gentlemen Calm and controlled, Kelli Westcott sat the bed, hands folded neatly her lap. “Remember ? I don’t know what you’ve been through behalf, and I appreciate , but I have the feeling I’ve been lying this bed for much too long. Could maybe discuss what next about somewhere else? you indicate, I’m a hospital, I’d much rather home. Can’t talk about there astonished her sudden recovery were the doctors duty that they did not even try hold her another day for observation. With her blindness carefully camouflaged forestall any objections the part the hospital staff, she was discharged into her husband’s custody and released. Approaching their neighborhood, Cody was given a reminder the dangers that had not vanished simply because his wife’s coma had been broken. The Interlopers who lived the artificial waterfall that marked the entrance the community were still there, still waiting hungrily for the next unwary bystander lean against them and become unwilling host. The archaeologist was grim-faced pulled into the driveway. Cared for their good-natured neighbors, the house looked intact, undisturbed, and less troubled than its owners. After the traumatic and extraordinary events the past weeks, the shock encountering something familiar, domestic and comforting, nearly overcame him. “Are home Gazing blankly, Kelli fumbled for assistance exiting the car. “Yes. Yes, Kelli, we’re home. last. And we’re not going anywhere for a long, long time Holding her against him, Cody escorted her the winding concrete path that led the front entrance. Trailing closely behind, his briefcase expensive extension his hand, Oelefse countered the archaeologist’s homey assurance. “That , course, you, young friend. But you wish try and alleviate your wife’s present condition, I afraid cannot done from here. least, I certainly cannot from here Cody paused outside the front door. Ahead lay his home, his refuge, a castle smaller than Hohensalzburg but him and the one loved, less stirring vital. “Then you think there’s a chance? You think you can give her back her normal sight “There nothing wrong with her sight. her perception that has become skewed. But I need assistance. I need the help someone more skilled such singular matters than myself “We’ve just returned home, Oelefse. I’ve been away for long, and Kelli squeezed her tightly himKelli’s been away even longer Tilting back her head and speaking the sound his voice, she smiled. “What I’m seeing actually quite pretty, Cody. Deadly, maybe, everything you’ve been telling true, but still pretty. Otherworldly pretty She placed her open palm against his chest. “But I’d much rather able see you. your friend thinks can something, then should what says “I know, I know that Indecision tore the archaeologist. “I’ll —Kelli, I’ll whatever you want. You’re the one who’s been sick. You just climbed out a hospital bed. Are you sure you’re going somewhere soon, you want take a couple days and rest first She didn’t hesitate, turning the direction Oelefse’s costly and distinctive cologne. “I want see

husband again, . Oelefse. I want see him, and house, and cats, and blue sky and growing things that don’t glow. you think there’s a chance, any chance all, that you can make that happen, I don’t want hesitate. Let’s get with , right now Her smile shone brighter than the polished metal the medical instruments that had kept her alive. “I’d even like see you, I can thank you properly Cody checked the emotions that threatened overwhelm him. “All right, Oelefse. What have Wizened brows crinkled thought, and there was a glint the old man’s eye. maybe was just the passing reflection the midday sun. When spoke, was not Cody but his wife. “ dear Mrs. Westcott— your passport order

Sixteen Cody thought they mould head east, back Europe. Back Germany. was more than a little surprised when they boarded a Qantas flight. “Sydney, Australia posed the metropolitan query absently and his elderly companion waited for Kelli emerge from the women’s lounge the airport. “What’s Sydney “Excellent restaurants. Fascinating history. Interesting shopping Oelefse was scanning the concourse, his eyes ever busy, his mind always alert the possibility that even a security-screened public place the wretched minions the Interlopers might try intercept them otherwise interfere with their movements. “None that, however, need concern . Nichts, nada—nothing Cody was watching a tall, cadaverous Scandinavian approach the metal detector. The device would warn incoming guns and bombs, but not Those Who Abide. “Then why are going there “Because provides the most connections from the western U.S. Perth which, case you were unaware the fact, the most isolated large city Earth “ we’re going Perth The archaeologist shifted his stance, wishing that Kelli would hurry. Although knew that women restrooms typically did not hurry, because her impaired vision became nervous whenever she was out his sight for more than a few minutes. “Only get Kununurra Oelefse had finally lost him, had geographically dumped him somewhere the empty northwest Down Under. said much. His knowledgeable friend elucidated. “Kununurra a small agricultural town the East Kimberley, almost the border with the Northern Territories. South the town lies the Argyle mine, which famed for its pink diamonds. There also impressively big reservoir, Lake Argyle. About two hundred and fifty kilometers drive south from the town the Bungle Bungle range Though knew Oelefse was being dead serious, Cody could not keep from smiling. “There are mountains the world that are actually called the Bungle Bungles His friend nodded. “The aboriginal name more mellifluous. help your wife must enter Purnululu. For the local people a place great magic and spiritual significance. Despite its beauty, few tourists there. The place simply too isolated. Parts the range have never been observed close- and have yet visited — outsiders Turning his gaze away from the colliding streams humanity that filled the concourse, met the archaeologist’s eyes unflinchingly. “ one those places where the unreality Interloper existence

spikes the truth ours Cody’s smile vanished. “I see. this place remote and difficult visit, how will know where once get there was Oelefse’s turn smile Kelli, feeling her way along the walls, emerged from the restroom. “A member the Society will our guide. necessary. Otherwise could well become lost and perish thirst. The East Kimberley the border the Great Sandy Desert unforgiving country, friend. can kill surely a hungry Interloper The flight from Los Angeles Sydney was not long— was interminable. Arriving Sydney, they slipped past a violent verbal confrontation between a tight-lipped customs inspector and a first-class passenger whose luggage was being dismantled right down the aspirin bottle a small medical kit. was Kelli who spotted the irate traveler’s inhabiting Interloper first. was fluttering ecstasy, delighting the mental and emotional discomfort its distraught host. Feeding broad daylight. “Throughout the world, international customs are one the favorite feasting grounds Those Who Abide Oelefse informed Kelli and Cody. With his guidance, they had passed without comment through the line inspectors. they left the terminal, the enraged protestations the infected wayfarer could still heard behind them. Following a necessary night’s layover airport hotel, they were early the next morning catch the first flight Perth—another five and half hours the air. Perth Kununurra with the requisite stops between found them that remote but pleasant town nightfall. Cody had thought himself used the travails longdistance travel, but neither nor Kelli, leaning his arm for guidance, had ever experienced anything like this. While they collapsed air-conditioned motel room, the indefatigable Oelefse went search the local car rental. “ time waste the practical German had responded when Cody had urged him rest and wait until morning. “ must have a four-wheel drive reach, much less negotiate, the terrain around Purnululu Glancing the night sky added, “ late the dry season. the Wet hits while are here, will not able get into the range. I will feel better when have arranged the necessary vehicle “And contacted your colleague Kelli was seated the big bed, tracing its outline with her hands. Pain coursed through Cody that she was forced see with her hands instead the almost functional eyes she still possessed. She was handling her affliction better than . “I doubt will see him here Oelefse opened the door, letting a puff almost cool night air that slipped down around Cody’s head and shoulders like a cloak gossamer dampness. “ are not likely that lucky closed the door behind him. “But I know where find him—I hope The journey south from Kununurra along the paved two-lane, shoulderless road euphemistically called the Great Northern Highway wasn’t bad. Except for having hold his breath while the occasional road train came barreling toward them, Cody found almost enjoyable. did his best describe the rust-red, sparsely vegetated ground with its warped hillocks and torturously folded ridges attentive Kelli. From time time a kangaroo wallaby would bound across the road, while unknown birds mocked them from the shelter scraggly bushes. Warmun Community was little more than a collection dilapidated trailers and a couple food stores, though a few newer, more permanent houses could seen hugging the shade a small canyon. “This place used called Turkey Creek Oelefse remarked they pushed through the desert heat toward

the largest the stores. “Like a good deal this country, the names well the land are reverting back the original owners they walked, Cody marveled their guide’s ability handle the difficult climate. Living Phoenix, and Kelli were used the heat and absence humidity. least, reflected, Oelefse had finally put aside his elegantly tailored suit favor bush shorts, poplin shirt, and wide-brimmed hat. Enveloped this wilderness apparel, the omnipresent briefcase that went everywhere with him looked distinctly out place. Although everyone was soon perspiring profusely, the temperature was not the real problem. Far more aggravating were the flies that assailed them every opportunity. Refusing waved away, they persisted wherever they happened land— exposed skin, lips, the inviting cavities ears nostrils. Cody and Kelli quickly learned how perform the Australian salute—the waving a hand ceaselessly back and forth front their faces. The store was air-conditioned and blissfully free annoying insects. Behind the counter, a heavy set woman with skin blacker than that any person Cody had ever seen was unpacking bottled sodas from a cardboard crate and placing them one one open upright cooler. Her features were bold and flattened. When she smiled, the contrast between ebony skin and teeth white milk was startling. “What you blokes want? Something cold drink Kelli wiped sweat from her brow, clinging deftly her husband’s left arm for guidance. The clerk noticed but did not comment. “I’d love a cold cola. The brand doesn’t matter Oelefse paid. Halfway through their chosen refreshment, put one hand the counter and smiled engagingly. “I seeking Tjapu Kuwarra The woman looked uncertain. “You not a government bloke—you got a funny accent, mate. You a friend old Tjapu When Oelefse nodded, she waddled out from behind the counter and retraced their steps the store’s double-doored entrance, parting a sudden influx laughing coal-black children like icebreaker cleaving Arctic sea. “You see back the canyon there? Last house—you’ll have walk “ home Cody inquired politely. The woman chuckled. “Maybe. Maybe not. Doesn’t matter. wants see you, he’ll there, and don’t, won’t Without a goodbye, she turned deal with the sudden flash-flood thirsty children who had inundated the counter with their shouts and laughter. After downing the last their drinks, the three travelers left the store and started the rough dirt track. Overhead, a single scavenging hawk soared silently rising currents desiccated air. “How you know this Kuwarra person Despite her handicap, Kelli negotiated the uneven path gracefully, relying her husband notify her any obstacles their path larger than a baseball. Oelefse glanced back. “Why, a member the Society, course smiled. “The Society has chapters odd places. Wherever Interlopers are found, the Society there: watching, combating, striving protect those who can not perceive Cody had been uneasy ever since they had left their Jackaroo four-wheel drive parked front the store. His eyes swept the surrounding terrain: all stone and bush and tree. All natural, and therefore potential home Those Who Abide. Detecting not a single Interloper, observation that the skew-sighted Kelli was able confirm, queried Oelefse about their apparent absence. “Tjapu here, and works protect his people. reputation a good man, a strong defender. keeps his

territory cleansed. not worry about these rock faces and precipices walk between. will already have dealt with them. the local Kija language, Kuwarra means ‘cliffs you can’t climb.’” Cody was heartened, until several tries the door the last house produced response. Though was unlocked, Oelefse chose not enter. Instead, they walked around the back, where they were surprised find a modest, neatly laid-out garden composed carefully nurtured desert plants. Several were bloom and boasted unexpectedly brilliant flowers. the far end the garden path they came upon a small, narrow pool; a place where still water had gathered for protection beneath a slightly undercut, overhanging cliff. A single large log rested the edge the water. had been trimmed and groomed form a kind bench. Seated the log and facing the water were three locals; all male, all aged, almost identically clad shorts, short-sleeved shirts, and battered sandals. The first had a neatly trimmed white beard and wisps a darker gray peeking out from beneath his hat. Cody guessed him about seventy. His neighbor’s whiskers were long and full those a department store Santa, above which eyes were set deep ebon skin. His face was convoluted and tormented the surrounding geology. might have been eighty, ninety, over a hundred; the archaeologist could not tell. Seated his right was a similarly bearded elder who was the perfect image aboriginal Methuselah. None them looked the newcomers’ approach. None turned from contemplating rock and water offer query greeting. Silently, Oelefse took a seat the near end the log, put his briefcase down a flat red stone, and proceeded stare fixedly into the placid desert pool. After whispering a description the scene his wife, Cody led her forward and together they assumed similar positions. They all remained just for least hour, all six them staring quietly water that did not respond. that hushed canyon, nothing moved. The other houses were likewise silent, their younger men away tending sheep and cattle nearby stations working the distant diamond mine. Terminating the brief eternity, the youngest the three elders finally turned Oelefse and asked, all had passed, “Where you from

time

“Germany. friends are from America Leaning forward slightly, the old man gestured. “I a friend Tjapu Kuwarra The speaker nodded once. Without another word, and his neighbor rose, turned, and departed. Again, goodbyes were offered. They were leaving, and that was farewell enough. The action being selfexplanatory, there was need for superfluous declarations. the country the Kimberley, even language was scrupulously conserved. Rising from his seat the far end the log, the oldest the contemplative trio came approached the visitors. His astonishingly advanced age did not appear have much impact his movements, which were fluid slightly shaky. Smiling through his white monument a beard, reached out embrace Oelefse. “Long time since I had a visit from the Society. Welcome the presence much hoary sagacity, Cody felt like a stammering child. Having nothing wise say, demonstrated wisdom saying nothing. After introducing his companions, Oelefse proceeded explain the reason for their visit. Tjapu listened solemnly, every now and again nodding much himself his visitors. When Oelefse finished, their venerable host turned and headed back toward the house, moving with easy, rapid strides. About burst from anxiety, Cody did not wait for Oelefse explain. “ wife—can you help her? Can you

anything alleviate her condition “ sure, mate Looking back, the ancient one smiled. “ fix her right . The doing might a little dangerous, but for sure got give a try, you know? everything works, she’ll right. worries “And everything doesn’t Kuwarra shrugged. “Then maybe dead. But the long run, all dead, fair dinkum Opening the back door, led them inside. Though did not boast the wonderful forced air-conditioning the store, the interior the concrete-block house was far cooler than the sweltering conditions outside. Amid a wealth astonishingly detailed paintings done traditional style, they sat and stared while their host served them lukewarm tea, chocolate biscuits, and chicken sandwiches. All the while, Kuwarra was studying Kelli, searching every inch her face, gazing into eyes that could not look back. “S’truth, she got the Sight, but not sight. fix that “How Cody sipped his cup, marveling the absence ice such a climate. “Oelefse has tried rattles, and chants, and tea brewed from the blue leaves the ilecc “Ilecc leaves their host exclaimed. turned Oelefse. “You blokes been doing some serious traveling Holding his cup delicately were court, the German replied genially. “ had a few awkward moments, yes indicated Kelli. “She was very ill. The ilecc restored her health, but left her vision turned inside out. Thanks his research, our friend Cody Sighted. because that research, which important and inimical Those Who Abide, that and his wife were singled out them for special attention “ not for him Cody added nodded Oelefse’s direction, “I don’t think Kelli and I would here now. anywhere else Kuwarra nodded sagely. “The Society glad help. I honored turn Rising, turned and started for a back room. “Got get some things together. You finish eating. Spend the night here “ there a motel Kelli asked hopefully. That brought forth a burst laughter bright and refreshing seemed cool the room ten degrees. “A motel! Warmun! That’s a good one, sheila. A motel Still chuckling himself, vanished into the back. “ will sleep here tonight Finishing the last his tea, Oelefse discreetly set his cup aside. They had not been provided with saucers. “Tomorrow will into Purnululu “What’s there Cody was wary the answer. His friend would only smile. “This Tjapu’s country, not mine. You will have ask him. Not ilecc bushes, I promise you “Something else the archaeologist murmured. “Something different. different this land from Austria, I suspect Reaching out, patted Kelli’s hand. “Whatever , can rely Tjapu make good use “ doesn’t kill first Cody felt compelled point out. *** After the comparative cruising comfort the paved highway, the fifty off-road miles into Purnululu came more than a slight shock. places they were reduced bouncing and banging along dry creek beds, following signs that had been battered and weathered almost beyond recognition. With the Jackaroo grinding over rocks and stumbling across mini-gorges, the time the fabled, isolated range itself finally

came into view, the two Americans were sore and tired. contrast, neither their elderly companions seemed have been affected the difficult ride. Ahead loomed the most remarkable collection hills Cody had ever seen. did his best describe them Kelli. More than anything else, the Bungle Bungles resembled a collection giant beehives. Horizontally striped red, yellow, ochre, and every shade between, the domes rose out the surrounding rubble like a vision from Bosch. Trees clung the shady places between the sandstone cupolas while Livistonia palms hid cracks and chasms the highly eroded rock. the abused Jackaroo trundled forward along the dirt and gravel track, a nail-tailed wallaby burst from a bush rocket past front them. The spectacular array mineral-inspired colors was enhanced a backdrop cloudless blue sky. Turning right, they followed the track until they eventually left entirely. Behind the wheel, Oelefse paid careful attention Kuwarra’s directions. Cody was acutely aware that they were leaving behind any semblance civilization development. the eastern half the escarpment were tourist facilities, roads, nothing but beehived sandstone, heat, and the maddening, Dante-esque flies. the south lay the empty vastness the Great Sandy Desert, thousands square miles waste-land uninhabited save for a few marginal sheep stations and isolated aboriginal communities. the rim the range the terrain was relatively flat and negotiable the Jackaroo. Peering the jumble resplendently striped domes and spires, Cody wondered aloud how they were going coax the fourwheel drive more than a short distance inward. “We’re not was Kuwarra’s answer. “Got walk. There’s a creek we’ll follow. Can’t drive these hills anyway. That pretty banding you see a crust over the underlying sandstone. Just walk wrong and flakes away The archaeologist eyed the hills with new respect. They didn’t look half fragile. “Okay. find what

a creek.

“These hills Kuwarra asked him, “what they look like you “Beehives Cody responded without hesitation. “Big beehives “How about eggs The Warmun elder was grinning. “They look a little like eggs you “Maybe a little. Awfully garish for eggs. Easter eggs, maybe “S’truth, mate Kuwarra pointed and Oelefse responded with a sharp turn the wheel, heading the vehicle into the looming, multicolored hillocks. “Sandstone here, sandstone there, but every now and then you find egg. That’s what looking for. That’s what got find help your woman. Bonzers from the city, they just see rock, rock, everywhere. Walk right past egg without seeing what . Don’t matter the egg ‘cause they don’t try break open. different Watching the rounded hills, some them hundreds feet high, draw near, Cody frowned. “You’re saying that some these domes aren’t stone, but eggs “Too right, mate: Bunyip eggs. That’s what gonna : crack open ourselves a bunyip egg Bouncing the padded bench seat next her husband, Kelli spoke . “What

then? Make omelet

Roaring with laughter, the aged aborigine slapped his leg. “Bunyip omelet! That’s a good one, woman! , omelet. something else nudged Oelefse, who was concentrating the gorge they were approaching. “You hear that, mate? Feed a lot folk, that omelet would “All your community Cody asked curiously.

“Maybe. Depend the bunyip. Maybe feed Warmun, sure Turning, the white-haired elder met the archaeologist’s gaze. “Maybe feed Perth Cody was left with that image ponder they entered the shallow creek that had eaten a cleft the rock, allowing them penetrate the range. Curving, sheer-sided walls closed both sides. Even the shade, was hot, but nothing like the searing semidesert they had left behind. When the chasm grew too narrow for the Jackaroo, they parked a little side canyon. Kuwarra passed out small day packs. Cody and Kelli’s contained only food and water. addition his pack, the elder carried one hand a three-foot long wooden tube, a piece tree that had been decorated with many symbols and dots white and dark red. Kuwarra defined them best could, tracing paths and stopping-places the Dream-time, highly stylized animals, and creatures few people would recognize. Cody was one the few, having seen Interlopers before. They advanced silence, following the overachieving trickle a creek until the water vanished into the sand. Kelli held tight her husband’s guiding arm. Above them the sky was reduced a narrow, winding blue streak that followed the line the gorge. Everyone kept a careful eye out for Interlopers, but despite the profusion native stone, they saw none. Their absence such a potentially hospitable place struck Cody peculiar. said much the two old men who were leading them onward. “The reason simple enough Kuwarra explained though was the most obvious thing the world. “They keep away from this place ‘cause they scared “Scared all his many conversations with Oelefse, Cody could not recall the German mentioning anything that could frighten Interloper. Enrage them, yes. Through his research the archaeologist had succeeded doing that himself. But scare? “What could frighten Interloper Kuwarra’s laughing smile vanished and for once was wholly serious. “You never seen a bunyip, mate. When you see one, you have your answer did not elaborate. Nor, Cody decided abruptly, did want him .

Seventeen Eggs. Observing the domes and spires through which they were hiking, Cody could not banish the image from his mind: something a hundred feet high, maybe two, having the appearance solid, banded sandstone, suddenly rumbling and cracking and splitting wide open release—what? Every image his brain unwillingly conjured fill the void was more disturbing than the next. Kelli helped calm him. the danger was that great, she argued, then surely Kuwarra would not have brought them here. There had a reason why their actual presence was required. was simply a matter finding and gathering something, some special ingredient for a potion pill, the elder could have come himself, company with Oelefse, Oelefse and Cody, just her husband and his European friend had gone fetch the blue leaves the ilecc bring her out her coma. Her rationale, Cody realized, was sound. But while approved the logic that led inarguable conclusion, didn’t like . Kookaburras and galahs guffawed the Livistonia palms that filled the chasm. Where fast-flowing

runoff from the Wet had scooped depressions the sand the creek bed, dark pools had collected, their depths still and shadowed the dust-free surface black pearls. Even the near perpetual shade, was incredibly hot. Sweat poured down everyone’s face except Kuwarra’s, staining collars and sleeves. Tjapu Kuwarra did not sweat. any event had nothing stain, having left everything the way clothing back the Jackaroo but for a skimpy pair briefs. The chasm widened out into a bowl-shaped pit. The far side was dominated a vast undercut ledge, a smooth-ceilinged cavern large enough hold a thousand people. Splashing through ankle-deep water, they halted beneath the ceiling the impressive natural amphitheater. Even a whisper was clearly audible, reflected and magnified the superb natural acoustics their red earth surroundings. Slipping his pack off his back, Kuwarra brought out incongruously powder-blue, cheap plastic lady’s makeup kit. From its contents extracted glutinous paints and natural resins with which proceeded paint his body from face feet, not neglecting dab some bright reds and yellows his remarkable beard. Cody looked quiet fascination, doing his best describe the simple but bold patterns Kelli. Working silence, Oelefse stripped off his own clothes and proceeded emulate his friend and colleague. The designs with which streaked his pale skin were utterly different from those that decorated the nearly nude form the aged aborigine. When both elders turned face Cody, wondered would also expected offer his torso for duty a canvas. worse, Kelli’s. Noting the look concern the archaeologist’s face, Oelefse hastened reassure him. “You are perceptive, Coschocton Westcott, but you are not a member the Society. There work done here, and for friend Tjapu and Cody nodded understandingly. “What about Kelli and ? What you want “Stay out the way Kuwarra’s eyes were roaming the sheer stone walls that enclosed them. “Stand. Watch. And ready “ can that Kelli told him. “Where you have next “Where Kuwarra gestured expansively. “ are there, miss Turning a slow circle, Cody examined the handsomely banded, wind- and water-washed sandstone. contained every earth tone imaginable, from deep magenta bright yellow. saw nothing but gravel, boulders, weathered stone domes, and sand. Since entering the range they had not seen a single Interloper. They were afraid this place, their guide had explained. the bunyip. What hell was a bunyip? Did want find out? Settling himself down a cool patch sand the water’s edge, Kuwarra passed something Oelefse. was a half-foot long piece wood, smooth both sides, shaped something like a squashed banana. Intricate painted patterns decorated both flattened sides. one the two pointed ends, a stout knotted string passed through a hand-drilled hole. Oelefse held the string loosely, letting the piece wood dangle near his ankle. Taking the hollow tube had been carrying, Kuwarra put one open end his mouth. Beeswax formed a smooth seal between lips and wood. When blew into the resultant drone, enhanced the acoustics the sandstone amphitheater, spooked every bird from its mid-day roost for half a mile around. Wings briefly filled the sky overhead before disappearing all directions. What the aborigine patriarch played could not called a tune, but was surely music, Cody knew. archaeologist, had heard didgeridoo before, though had been nothing like this. Instead a hypnotic,

barely modulated drone, Kuwarra punctuated his playing with weird assortment whoops, squawks, squeals, and moans could found a haunted house All-hallows Eve. his hands the didgeridoo became a living thing, imprisoned orchestra, insistent long-distance call atavistic past that went beyond music penetrate the heart whatever was that made its listeners human. was mesmerizing, enthralling, all-embracing, and the Kija elder played without pausing breathe, utilizing the traditional cycle breathing that had been developed for use simultaneously with the instrument itself. Within a banded beehive dome a hill across the shallow water, something stirred. soon Cody saw the sheer rock face begin quiver, put arm around Kelli and drew her back, instinctively putting room between them and the two elders. Bits and pieces the highly colored sandstone crust began flake away from underlying stone, tumbling the sandy creek bed below. Kuwarra never broke off playing. anything, his playing grew more insistent, more convoluted, evolving into the didgeridoo equivalent a fugue. Cody paid less attention the panoply sounds than did the shuddering stone. Kelli took unexpected step forward and pointed. “I can see The archaeologist squinted, scanning the exfoliating rock. had raise his voice make himself heard above the wail the ancient musical instrument and the now rapidly peeling cliff face. “Where? I don’t see anything “There—it’s right there She was gesturing emphatically. “Can’t you see Between a band yellow and a band mauve, the rock was parting, cracking open, widening reveal a dark hollow place the solid stone. Cody looked like a mouth opening wide a pair colossal lips parted. But that was all could see. “—it’s coming out Kelli took several steps backward, compelling her husband retreat with her. “What? What’s coming out Anxious and frustrated, Cody stared intently the widening maw the cliff that the backs his eyes began throb. “I don’t see any There was a crack thunder. A crack thunder a cloudless, clear blue sky. The two-hundred-foot-high dome split vertically, like a mound rainbow sherbet cleaved down the middle a hot butcher knife. From depths within emerged a bluish silhouette, grotesque and malformed beyond imagining. Shimmering and glittering with malevolent fire, turned a thousand luminescent fangs the length a man the direction the four tiny figures the sand below. Without warning, preamble, hesitation, struck, a descending synthesis all that was sharp and lethal. Just before attacked, Oelefse had begun whirl the banana-shaped piece wood over his head, like a loop the end a lariat. With each revolution the brightly painted wood thrummed through the air, generating a deep-throated humming like the whir a colossal, contemplative bumblebee. the mad aggregate blue-tinged razors lunged Kuwarra, the wooden bullroarer struck. Fangs exploded, bursting contact with the ancient device a shower azure sparks that flamed briefly blue before sinking into the sand. Outraged and thwarted, the horrific visage withdrew preparatory striking again. “It’s outline Clinging tightly his beloved, Cody tried shield her best could. “Just electric blue outline. There’s nothing else there Within the tenuous safety his arms, Kelli struggled swallow, and failed. “, Cody. It’s more than that. I —I can see all “But how turned slightly meet her blank gaze, the rest the archaeologist’s question died his throat. All could see was a silhouette, a suggestion, a roiling hint what the flickering blue enclosed. Damaged, altered, her perception transfigured, Kelli could not see him. But her clouded eyes could see

—other things. The truth was right there, blatant the stone that surrounded them. spite himself, despite his fear for his wife’s safety and his overriding desire shield her, pulled away from what saw. could not blamed for doing . one could have withstood the horror saw then—not even Oelefse. The bunyip was reflected her eyes. drew back, gathering itself strike again, Oelefse whirled face the two archaeologists. His painted countenance was longer that the urbane European gentleman. Like the rest him, his expression seemed have slipped back ten thousand years time. Even shouted, continued whip the bullroarer over his head while Tjapu Kuwarra sustained the steady drone the didgeridoo. “Kelli Westcott! Inhale! Take a deep breath. Now, deep you can! Questions flared like matchheads Cody’s mind, but there was time for thinking. Reacting Oelefse’s command, a startled Kelli sucked much the ozone-tinged air she thought she could. Beneath her shirt her chest expanded with the effort. coincided with the bunyip’s second attack. Once again the strike was deflected the disk power generated Oelefse’s bullroarer. But this time the frightful apparition was not hammered backwards. Instead, reflecting the angle which had impacted the bull-roarer’s circle influence, was shunted sideways, knocked askew. Something caught hold , drawing forward instead casting away. Though struggled mightily, twisting and writhing like a runaway dynamo with awful insensate life, could not resist. Cody felt had been struck a pillow filled with pudding. The force knocked him down, breaking his grip Kelli’s shoulders, then picked him and threw him six feet away that landed flat his back the soft sand. Looking helpless horror and fascination, watched a single flash condensed blue lightning vanished down his wife’s smooth-skinned, tanned throat. Kelli sat down hard, her hands her sides bracing herself a sitting position. Startled, dazed, she blinked several times, she had swallowed nothing more than errant bug. Putting aside didgeridoo and bullroarer, the two elders instantly rushed her aid. they started help her , a furious Cody brushed them aside. “What happened Trembling with rage, stared down his stunned wife. “What did you her Oelefse replied gently—more gently than Cody had ever heard him speak. “Ask her she can see you, friend The old man nodded encouragingly. “Ask The archaeologist did not have . Her eyes welling with tears, Kelli had reached and was running her fingers over her husband’s features; touching, caressing, loving. The answer Oelefse’s query was evident the way her face moved, the way her smile widened. “I can see you, Cody. I can see again. Everything The fury went right out him. Whatever hideous marvel had just witnessed, had restored her sight. Except for some initial, momentary shock, she seemed none the worse for the experience. “Most people muttered falteringly, “can get with swallowing a lousy pill cure what ails them Then was bending toward her, his face inclining toward her own, his mouth and lips reaching for the warmth that was familiar, staring into … With a cry fell back, stumbling away from her startled face, his trauma greater than hers. was still there. The bunyip was still there— her newly restored eyes. had seen —and had seen him, staring murderously but impotently back from within the depths his lover’s self and soul. wanted out. Yet, gathered himself and struggled deal with the shock what had just seen, struck him that she

seemed suffering ill effects. What had happened, was happening? Did the bunyip now possess her— she ? Her expression was one frightened bewilderment. “Cody, honey—what ? What’s wrong She was oblivious that which was now dwelling within her. Slowly walked back her, putting a hand each shoulder. “How you feel? Anything unusual irregular? What about your eyes “They feel fine. I can see again. They ache a little, and I’m kind nauseous, but it’s nothing I can’t handle her voice, confusion was paramount. “What’s the matter? You look strange, Cody. Almost you’re frightened Still holding her, his expression grim, turned confront the other members the little party. They were observing silence. “Well? What just happened here? Should I frightened her? Should all The two elders exchanged a glance. Oelefse left their guide explain. “ was the only way, mate. The part her mind that sees right was all cocked sideways, you see. Had knocked back into place. Need a big shock that, too right gestured his colleague. “Without and Ole here, the bunyip maybe come out its egg and eat you for sure ventured encouraging smile. “Instead, make a little music, a little magic, and she eat . Suck straight down, your sheila did! Knock her eyeball stuff right back into line Cody and Kelli struggled make sense the unfathomable. Kuwarra’s words were clear enough, but the antediluvian meaning behind them was not. “Then hasn’t gone away, this bunyip thing? It’s still inside her Summoning a great effort will, the archaeologist made himself gaze once more into his wife’s eyes. What saw there would have made a strong man blanch a weaker love turn away. “I can see Oelefse nodded. “All surgeries have side effects, young friend “Side effects! What are supposed now? home and back work? Resume a normal life while Kelli walks around with some irate eldritch horror fuming inside her? The idea behind all this was keep Those Who Abide away from . Not make them part the family “The bunyip not Interloper Oelefse explained patiently. “ something else “I’ll say Cody’s angry voice reverberated off the burnished, buckled sandstone walls the amphitheater. “ makes the worst Interloper I’ve seen look like a stuffed toy handout from a fast-food chain “ course will exorcise from her The elderly German’s tone was soothing. “But you are willing, not here. There a better place “Better place Frowning, Cody looked from one composed, impassive elder the other. Kelli’s expression reflected similar uncertainty. “What you mean, a better place Kuwarra took the explanation. “Something the verge happening, mate. Something real very bad for the very real world. got stopped, don’t you know spread his hands wide. “ prevent something real bad you got use something real bad. Nothing around that’s badder than a bunyip Straining see, tried peer speculatively into Kelli Westcott’s eyes. ”Especially angry one “ you need this bunyip Breaking off, Cody stared open-mouthed the two old men. Despite the heat, all-encompassing coldness ran down his spine, penetrating him the core. Gracious, concerned, kindly, the two elders gazed back, waiting for him speak—a pair evenly matched, compassionate cobras. “How long finally found the wherewithal whisper. Realization had stunned him beyond anger. Deeply confused, Kelli started say something, only hushed her husband. The gesture alone was enough

quiet her. Cody never tried silence her. Few people did. those few, rarely did anyone succeed. The look her life-mate’s face was enough kill any words aborning. Oelefse sighed heavily. “Tram before the beginning, friend “Don’t call that Cody was beyond irate. “Your call for help was not the only one considered, you know Picking his briefcase off the sand, the old man opened and withdrew a small towel from its depths. spoke, wiped paint and stain from his face and body. “But because your backgrounds was decided that you two would the least vulnerable the revelations that were bound follow “You used A still disbelieving Cody was shaking his head slowly from side side. “You helped because you needed a vessel. Just like Interloper needs a human vector. You needed someone serve a bottle for a bunyip Oelefse’s voice was still firm, but was beginning look more than a little uncomfortable. “ could have been anyone, but your wife’s condition was serious. Saving her was our first priority “Was ? Was really? Tell something Letting Kelli, took a belligerent step forward. “Could you have cured her, brought her out her comatose state, without adversely impacting her vision? Without leaving her unable see her world? The real world did not let the ensuing silence linger before raising his voice. “Could you With obvious reluctance, Oelefse nodded. “I could lie you, friend, but that not the way the Society— usually. , could have been done that way—but then she would not have been able serve a suitable alembic for the bunyip. And need such alembic, Cody Westcott. need very badly. Time was—time , short nodded toward the solemn-visaged Tjapu Kuwarra. “ you have just heard, something very bad the verge transpiring. Something that must prevented any cost “ ‘Any cost’.” Cody’s tone was mocking. “You mean our cost. Kelli’s cost. Not yours “ are all risk Oelefse said adamantly. “You remember the ilecc “ I recall, I was busy with other things while you were picking leaves “A tea brewed from the stems the ilecc would have been enough restore your wife’s sight normal. contrast, the tea the blue leaves left her vision altered and her self open. Open and able receive and store almost anything. Such the power the ilecc shrub. Now she has her sight back, and additionally from now will able perceive Those Who Abide well you I. Only one small thing has been added “Small thing Kelli had started the conversation far, far behind everyone else, but was catching quickly. “ that same ghastly specter that I saw what’s inside now, was big airport terminal She swallowed. “ wonder I’m feeling nauseous “ only temporary Oelefse assured her. “Tjapu and I can coax out any time “Then bring out now. Right now a furious Cody demanded. “This not the best place, mate Kuwarra’s response was resolute his smile. “Not the time, either His gaze drifted northward. “Soon. Where can maybe stop this thing that’s otherwise going happen. , not maybe. Got stop . falls four here. been put our hands “Well, Kelli and I don’t want any part ! You hear The distraught archaeologist’s hands fluttered his wife’s direction. “Get out her! Make away. Now “Maybe first you have a listen Kuwarra’s smile shrank but did not disappear entirely. “What done here today don’t lightly, mate. really really important. Nobody toys with a bunyip for fun

“That’s real reassuring Cody replied bitterly. “I suppose there’s risk Kelli involved waiting, either did not include himself the equation because did not care about himself. “Nobody say that The aborigine elder continued. “ lies now, mate. There’s risk all. Anytime you got deal with something this big and bad, there’s always risk Turning away from the patriarch, Cody murmured solicitously his wife. “How are you feeling, love? You still okay? How about the nausea “It’s still there, but it’s not getting any worse She hesitated. “ least, not far Biting back the sarcasm that rushed his lips, but that knew would have been wasted the stolid pair elders, the archaeologist had content himself with glaring them. They waited with maddening repose for his response. “Okay—we’ll listen. But decline get involved your ‘real bad thing whatever , then you have promise, swear , drive this monstrosity out wife. that understood “Unequivocally Pivoting that faced westward, Oelefse raised a hand and pointed. “ you know what lies over there, that way Kelli replied before her husband. “I remember you talking about . The town Hall’s Creek “Beyond that The elderly German waved, trying stretch his fingers encompass more space. this point, Cody would not have been surprised those manicured digits had actually grown a foot two. But they remained their normal, natural length Oelefse spoke. “The town Broome. The Pacific Ocean Kelli responded absently, her restored vision constantly distracting her with a view interesting rock intriguing insect. “Farther still The tired old man turned back them. “I will tell you. India lies there. And next India, Pakistan was a struggle for Cody remain focused Kelli’s tribulation and not show interest Oelefse’s words. “ what? They’re big, all right, and I guess sometimes they’re bad, but what’s that got with ? with your Society, for that matter Having removed the last vestiges paint from his face, Oelefse moved with the cleansing rag his chest and arms. “They not like one another, these two countries. They are favorite habitats for Those Who Abide. much misery concentrated one area provides them with ideal feeding ground. Any large city either country contains more healthy, rapacious Interlopers than any state America, Germany. They are among the most heavily infested places the world “That makes senses the archaeologist conceded grudgingly. “ not enough for them, young friend. Those Who Abide are never satisfied. They are always hungry for more. More suffering, more despair, more wretchedness. They grow and multiply, and they , they demand more nourishment; the provender woe. create opportunities for feeding, they will whatever within their power increase . Pitiful incidents may sparked several Interlopers working together Thinking back, Cody remembered the bicyclists the university who had nearly entrapped him: collision and collusion. “I know. I’ve seen them work “The greater the number Interlopers toiling together, the more extensive the grief they can induce. the subcontinent they have had great success. Even stand here, this isolated place, they are planning another tragedy. Have been planning for some time. Have you forgotten that I once spoke you about such momentous malignant events? When first I came your house offer help curing your wife Cody thought back, remembering. With a shock recalled that the scholarly German had even

mentioned India the time. “ this what you were talking about? Something that’s going happen India Pakistan “ will take place neither country, and both. You have heard Kashmir “The northern province that both countries claim? Sure; follow the news Kelli said, finding herself distracted from her inspection a school small gray-white fish that were swimming just beneath the surface the shaded desert pool. Joining the conversation also helped take her mind off the nightmarish phantasm that was now abiding somewhere within her unsettled self. “They’ve been arguing over dominion the place for decades “Not just arguing Nearly free paint, Oelefse dropped the busy towel his legs. “They have fought several wars over the territory. People die there all the time. One man’s terrorist another man’s freedom fighter His voice fell slightly. “ the past years, something has changed. Something that raises the specter violence and destruction a scale that reduces everything that has gone before a tantrum between overgrown children. Both sides, both countries, are now possession nuclear weapons and the means deliver them “ know that Cody found himself becoming engaged despite his protests. “Kelli just told you— follow the news All a sudden did not like the tack the older man’s conversation was taking. Given his wife’s present unhappy condition, there were very, very few phrases powerful enough divert him from her situation. the liturgy distractions, the wholly unexpected mention “nuclear weapons” was one the few that would qualify. “Their existence must please the Interlopers Kelli presumed. “ does not just please them Wiping the last the paint from his calves, Oelefse neatly folded the now deeply stained towel and slipped back into his seemingly bottomless briefcase. “ excites them. tempts them, draws them together, sets them the most malicious scheming and planning. They have been conspiring for some time now “ what end Cody couldn’t help himself. had been drawn into Oelefse’s recital neatly dirt down a drain. The older man took a deep breath. “ nothing done, some time within the next couple weeks, a large mechanized Indian invasion force that has been assembling secret north Rajput will make a dash for the Kalkuma Pass. The only road suitable for tanks, armored personnel carriers, and heavy mobile artillery presently clear snow and obstructions. They will attempt take possession and secure all Kashmir. Once through the pass, they will split eliminate any local Pakistani resistance. Designated elements will drive all the way the border with Pakistan and dig , ready repel any counterattack. All this will come about because extremist elements the Bharatiya Janata, the Hindu nationalist party, have seen their strength slowly slipping away due the failure their economic policies. They hope that thrusting a jingoistic diversion before the masses, they will able shore their flagging popularity. “Much the weaker country, but with a highly trained and well-equipped military, the Pakistanis will respond immediately. They will driven off the entrenched Indians. Extremist Muslim elements within the government and the army will then demand that the ‘honor’ the nation upheld His gaze unwavering, Oelefse was staring hard the archaeologist. “You can guess what will happen next. The Pakistanis will employ tactical nuclear weapons the field against their Indian adversaries. The Indians will driven back from the border into Kashmir, but they will not driven out. “They will then respond with their own—devices. The conflict will escalate until one side the other attempts trump its opponent through the use nuclear blackmail. When this bluff called, inevitably will , a small bomb will fired a large city let his words linger the dry, desiccated air. “After that, the

limited nuclear arsenals both sides will brought into full play. Millions will die. Many millions more will horribly scarred and mutilated. Cancer and radiation poisoning will doom additional millions, well untold numbers children yet unborn “Those Who Abide Kuwarra added lazily stirred the sand with the end his didgeridoo, “will get stuck right into this people barbecue. The poor folk won’t even know what happening them “But that not the worst Oelefse waited patiently for a response. “There’s worse than that Kelli had momentarily forgotten her nausea. “Once the full might arms both countries involved, they will call upon their erstwhile allies for help. Linked religious and cultural ties, the entire Middle East Gulf region may throw its economic and military muscle onto the side the Pakistanis. This will have the ancillary effect driving world oil and therefore energy prices higher than the steeples Cologne, consequently sending the world economy spinning into chaos. Seeing a grand opportunity defeat a hereditary enemy with which has fought similar border wars the past, the Chinese will open a second front northeastern India. Assailed from two sides, the Indians will then swallow their pride and ask for outside help Oelefse nodded the stunned archaeologist. “That may bring your country, and mine, and the rest the developed world into the conflict. that point one can predict what might happen, except say that Those Who Abide will grow sleek and contented. not the Black Plague, perhaps even the Second World War—but could very, very bad. All this, course, from the military buildup northern India its projected conclusions, has been aided and abetted those humans infested with Those Who Abide. Without their incitement, such a confrontation would unlikely, not outright impossible “You say ‘may’ and ‘could ” Cody’s earlier anger had fled and was much subdued. “The Society’s predictors cannot see much beyond the initial clash between the subcontinent’s dominant countries. Subsequent that, all hazy speculation. But the course the initial hostilities, they are confident “How can they Kelli’s expression was anguished. “How can they know all this going happen? Can some your Society people see into the future “, not exactly The old man smiled gently. “Several thousand years knowing one’s opponent and striving outthink leads specific techniques useful forecasting certain trends. Also, have people all countries, those the subcontinent included. have been tracking this secret military buildup the part India ever since was initiated. know their plans and have recorded their stratagems. From there, extrapolation can made with a reasonable degree accuracy “And you Cody had already realized, “you and the Society, you plan try and prevent this from happening Both elders nodded simultaneously. “ must “And for that you need something like a bunyip. What for— frighten the troops and keep them from advancing “That would not work Oelefse explained patiently. “Its appearance would trouble only a few soldiers, and would explained away a clever Pakistani deception the fanatics their ranks. The assault would proceed with little delay. Our predictors note that the Indian advance has been carefully timed. cannot carried out this year, before winter snows the Karakorams close the Pass, then support for within the ranks the Indian military will fade. spring, the political power the Bharatiya Janata forecast much reduced. The threat military action divert people’s attention from the state the

economy will evaporate, and a new, less extreme coalition government will take power “ you’re not going use try and scare soldiers, then what you need a bunyip for Cody pressed him. “You already know that, mate Using his didgeridoo, a grinning Kuwarra blew a soft honk a galah winging its way over the chasm. “ frighten away Interlopers Husband and wife exchanged a confused glance. “What Interlopers Kelli asked. “The ones India? that where we’re going next “Not all Turning slightly, Oelefse pointed northward. “ need the bunyip frighten them away from the Hook. There are several that can utilized. This one, having the strongest association, will defended. After the guardians are driven off, can yoke the bunyip and make pull. will not take much a tug what must done Yoke the bunyip. Cody found himself yearning for the comforts home and the warm, enshrouding predictability staid academia. “ we’re not going India, then where? Pakistan? And what the hell kind a ‘hook’ are you talking about Oelefse smiled cheerfully. “You will see, when get Hoskins “Hoskins Kelli made a face. “ that near Perth? Darwin “Somewhat farther north the German told her. “ the island New Britain, which part northern Papua New Guinea “New Guinea Overwhelmed seemingly unrelated places, persons, and events, Cody was too exhausted object. “I thought the danger was Kashmir “ , mate A relaxed Tjapu Kuwarra casually slung his didg over a shoulder and started back down the narrow rock-walled gash the Earth that led toward their waiting four--four. “But the Hook ain’t

Eighteen Lost individual contemplation, neither the Westcotts sought press their elderly guides for details during the long ride back Kununurra. The specter looming nuclear war the Indian subcontinent was more than enough keep their thoughts occupied. Unspoken between husband and wife was any thought abandoning the two elderly men return home America. they were telling the truth, then millions lives were stake. that context, their own minor personal problems receded insignificance. Besides which, Kelli could hardly return a normal life housekeeping and teaching while carrying around a condensed bunyip her belly. Somehow Cody doubted even a prescription purgative would strong enough alleviate the condition. And some chance did, might well result consequences far worse than their present situation. essence, then, they had choice but “volunteer” their support. From Kununurra they flew Darwin, and then small plane Port Moresby. they were crossing the coralencrusted Arafura Sea that separated the island New Guinea from continental Australia, Cody jokingly asked the ever upbeat Kuwarra his passport was order, mimicking the admonition the archaeologist had heard more than one occasion from Oelefse. way response, the aborigine elder brought forth the document question and handed Cody for inspection. Upon opening the small booklet, the younger man was confronted with a bewildering mass official stamps and impressions that covered every available square inch every page. Reading the names was like skimming a worldwide travel agency’s main brochure. Kelli’s eyes widened she looked over her husband’s shoulder the battered pages.

Abashed, handed back its owner. “I owe you apology. When first met you I never would have supposed you were a world traveler like His words trailed away became even more embarrassed the implications his comment. Kuwarra was not offended. “Like good mate and colleague Oelefse? Why would you think that? Because I live a small house a tiny community the outback His grin was, always, infectious. “The Society got members everywhere. has , mate, we’d all bloody walking birdhouses for Those Who Abide slipped the thoroughly astonishing passport back into his shirt pocket. “You being archaeologists, you and your woman got visit Heidelberg some day. See the scrolls saved from the library Alexandria, that sort thing. Very cool stuff The plane banked starboard and leaned his face against the window. Ahead and below, ravine-cut green-clad mountains towered above a dusty coastal plain and turquoise sea. From Port Moresby they flew across the lofty spine the world’s second largest island, until the pilot announced their imminent arrival Hoskins. Looking out the window, Cody and Kelli saw a smaller replica New Guinea itself emerge beneath the plane. Though not large, New Britain was a huge island its own right; impressive, mountainous crescent more than three hundred miles from end end that averaged some forty often impenetrable miles across. “A difficult place get around Oelefse informed them the Fokker began its final descent. “There road from north south and road across. Only a little potholed pavement here and there the west coast, then tracks. Lots tracks. And the Hook Having made the discovery the beginning the interisland flight that a Fokker F-28 has less leg room than the average baby carriage, Cody struggled massage some feeling back into his long, cramped legs. “How you know much about such obscure place “When one joins the Society, the first thing one taught the location those places the Earth that possess distinctive characteristics unfamiliar contemporary science. But I also familiar with this part the world from ordinary secondary school. For many decades, this was a German colony. are presently flying over the Bismarck Sea, you know “What happened the German presence here Kelli’s expression reflected her internal discomfort. Despite the best efforts her husband and friend, she had been suffering from recurrent nausea all the way from Australia. Dramamine, they had discovered, did not work bunyips. “The Australians happened Oelefse told her, “followed the First World War. But reminders the early colonial presence are still scattered across these islands Hoskins was a ramshackle collection westward facing buildings the shores Kimbe Bay. The commercial hub the central and southern half the island, was being dragged kicking and screaming into the twenty-first century. Aspects the old South Seas clung like lost adjectives from a novel Conrad: wisps clapboard buildings posts and smiling dark-skinned women hauling fruit and chickens and children the brightly colored woven string bags known bilums. There was road across the ragged, emerald-draped spine the island, but there were a number wellused trails. Crossing horseback, they arranged for final supplies the town Pomio before proceeding inland once more. The main trail terminated Ora, a tightly knit knot wood-and-thatch houses little changed from those built the previous century. Naked children gawked them out wide eyes while suspicious village elders sat with their arms wrapped around their knees and stared solemnly the outsiders. Ora saw perhaps a handful visitors a year, and that only a good year. Dismounting, Oelefse began transferring supplies from saddlebags into a backpack. always, the ubiquitous briefcase never left his side. Draped a long cotton cloak decorated with intricate symbols

and animal designs, Kuwarra was gazing deep into the mist-swathed jungle that enclosed them all sides. “From here walk the elderly German was telling them. “This a place where the world stumbles. The local people will farther gestured inland. “North here lies a mountain called The Father, that the locals know Ulawun. over seven thousand feet high and cloaked impenetrable rain forest Listening him declaim what lay ahead, watching him prepare for a conflict whose parameters remained unknown, Karl Heinrich Oelefsenten von Eichstatt struck Cody a cross between Rambo and Geppetto, with a pinch Merlin thrown . Retching sounds made him look elsewhere. Poor Kelli was standing the edge the forest wall, throwing again. She had done least once every day since leaving Purnululu. She would continue , apologetic Oelefse explained, until the time came void the bunyip. Every upchuck was tinged, however delicately, a light blue. The locals observed the sick white woman stolidly. Once informed the visitors’ intended destination, any hint sympathy had fled from the village. They were not hostile, but neither did they offer any help. Sensible folk did not seek the slopes Mount Ulawun. Truly dangerous raskol bands used that country hide from the law, and had forever been the abode malicious spirits. Bidding farewell their guides and horses, the four travelers struck out into the jungle, following the faintest paths through the turgid, cloud-blanketed rain forest. Rustling sounds the bush hinted the hesitant passage tree kangaroos and giant rats, while the spasmodic hollering unseen birds--paradise echoed their progress. They spent the night the side a megapode nest, a huge mound decomposing leaves and forest-floor litter that the peculiar bird used incubate its eggs. Volcanic heat rising from the ground aided the parent birds maintaining a comfortable temperature for their offspring. also warded off the dampness that rapidly descended the travelers. Bidding them draw near, Oelefse unfolded a map alongside the fluorescent lantern Kuwarra used a shirt ward off entranced moths the size dinner plates. “See here told them, tracing lines and locales the wrinkled paper, “out here the western Bismarck Sea near little Aua Island the point the Hook lies embedded deep the ocean floor. then runs a perfect, unbroken curve through the Ninigo and Hermit Islands, through the much larger island Manus, before rising out the sea New Hanover drew his finger across the map a slow downward arc. “The curve the Hook continues through New Ireland and becomes the northern tip New Britain. Here near Mount Ulawun lies its easternmost point. this place begins disrupt the crust the Earth. The heat you feel beneath you tonight volcanic origin, are all these larger islands. The Hook then bends back toward the mainland New Guinea, giving rise volcanic islands all along the way. Karkar, Manam, Kairiru—all active, and very dangerous, volcanoes Folding the map, brought out another. A world map this time, Cody noted. “You can see clearly where the line attached the Hook goes, running perfectly straight down into the crust the planet His finger moved spoke. “The line ends here, where secured the mantle Cody could have laid out the path with a ruler. Unbending, unvarying, never deviating, the line ran from the north coast New Guinea, across southeast Asia, terminate under… Kashmir. “Fortunate coincidence Kelli stared the map. “Not all Oelefse proceeded refold the map. “Other hooks are tied other localities. are fortunate only that the one require lies near Tjapu’s homeland. has saved some traveling. The effort will the same

“About that effort Cody wondered aloud. “Just what we’re supposed here “Use the Hook, course Oelefse smiled him. “ must get its easternmost point. Then you will see took them several days tramping through the sodden undergrowth reach a ridge that was dominated eroded needles limestone. Surrounded innumerable other, smaller versions itself, the spire a triumphant Oelefse singled out was not especially distinctive. a karst landscape, Cody knew, such spectacular rock formations were the geologic norm. him and his wife the whitish stone monolith, festooned with ferns and epiphytes and clinging bushes, did not stand out among its disintegrating brethren. “ will set ourselves its base Thumbs tucked under the straps his backpack, the elderly German led them forward. “ all goes well, will our way back Ora Village nightfall All might indeed have gone well Oelefse hoped, and his prediction come true, had not been for one complication. They were not alone the ridge. There were fifteen twenty them, Cody estimated hastily. Certainly too many fight. Having experience with the notorious raskol gangs Papua New Guinea, could not tell these were more less scruffy and threatening than the average band local miscreants. What surprised him most was their stature. Perhaps half hailed from the highlands the main island; typical their tribes, they averaged less than five and a half feet height. The ferocity their appearance made them appear considerably taller. Most were armed with traditional weapons: stone axes, spears, bush knives, bows and arrows fashioned from the flexible stalks the black palm. Half a dozen carried firearms, including a trio homemade shotguns made iron plumbing pipe, with nails for hammers. Two the grim-faced men wielded -47’s while the apparent leader wore army-issue Clock pistol his waist. They emerged from their hiding places behind the monolith and its cousins, spreading out form a semicircle front the travelers. Either had not occurred them encircle the visitors prevent their escape, more likely, they knew they could easily run down the swiftest the intruders. After a brief exchange among themselves Melanesian trade pidgin, the leader stepped forward and addressed them broken English. His eyes lingered entirely too long Kelli Westcott for Cody’s liking. But neither their hostile stares nor their eclectic collection weapons was what worried the archaeologist the most. Every last one them, near Cody could tell, was host Interloper. “ not get many tourists here. You want see Mount Ulawun, you will need guides The pistol-toting leader wore a broad, confident smirk. “You hire Oelefse, who could perceive the roiling, shifting shapes the abiding Interlopers clearly his younger companions, nodded tersely. “ are willing that. How much you charge The headman glanced his men. A few chuckled softly, whispering among themselves. “First take you see Mount Ulawun. Then you give everything you got, including your clothes. Then maybe don’t kill you. That fair, not “You can have clothes now Kuwarra began undo his colorful cloak, a masterpiece traditional aboriginal art. The chief raskol gestured sharply. “Maybe let you keep yours, brother. Maybe even let you share a little bit His eyes had roamed back Kelli, who was standing close her husband possible. “ can share right now, mate Having removed his cloak, Kuwarra flung the direction the leader.

Startled, the other man reached ward off. Wrapping itself around his upper body, the cloak continued flutter and pulsate. The way moved reminded Cody the flapping wings a bat. The analogy drew strength from the prominence the back the cloak a beautifully rendered flying fox. Perhaps the cloak drew some kind strength from the exquisitely rendered icon well. Cursing and flailing the confining cloth, the raskol struggled with the cloak. did , the cloak fought back. The nearest members the band rushed aid their chief. Momentarily flustered, their heavily armed colleagues could only look bewilderment. they did , Kuwarra unslung his didgeridoo from his back, his movements swift and precise those a samurai unsheathing his sword. The notes proceeded blow were unlike anything Cody had heard before, even Purnululu. Attention shifted away from the lurching, cloak-enveloped raskol the elderly aborigine and his braying instrument. A couple the Highlanders started his direction. they did , Kelli abruptly staggered several steps backward and clutched her lower abdomen with both hands. Traveling from her ears, the eerie drone had finally reached her stomach. Something was emerging from between her lips. Something dark blue, noxious—and angry. “Quickly, friend—come with ! Schnell, schnell Pulling Cody’s wrist, Oelefse was dragging him toward the monolith with one hand. the other held his stained, somewhat battered, but still intact briefcase. “But Kelli—!” Cody struggled resist the old man’s surprisingly powerful pull. “She safe with Tjapu. Hurry, while there time Against his will, Cody felt himself hauled, reluctant and stumbling, toward the looming limestone tower. Its peak submerged fog, looked different from the others nearby. wondered what unseen features distinguished Oelefse’s eyes. Behind them, chaos had broken out. Drawn forth the bawling drone the didgeridoo, the enraged bunyip erupted from the prison Kelli Westcott’s belly find itself confronted ancient enemy. A couple bursts from the Kalashnikovs passed through through air. Massive, tenebrous blue tentacles lashed like whips. They caused only a shudder the dense human matter the raskols they passed through their fleshy bodies, but upon contact, the Interlopers struck shriveled and died frightful convulsions. Echoes elsewhere, their eerie, otherworldly screams lingered the air long after their passing. Standing protectively over Kelli’s gasping, retching form, the aborigine elder continued blow the didgeridoo the raskols staggered and fell. Driven mad, one sprinted right off a nearby cliff, spinning and tumbling the rain forest below. Others clutched their heads and screamed moaned the unsuspected unearthly entities they hosted were flayed from within. the time Cody and Oelefse reached the base the Hook, all but two the band had been laid flat the damp earth, weeping and wailing and twitching helplessly. Having swept the ridge its archenemies, the maddened bunyip sought new foes. Outlines multiple eyes settled immediately the two humans who were exerting themselves the base the monolith. With a cry like a bad wind rising, flowed down the slight slope toward them, tentacles lashing, multiple mouths agape. From the briefcase Oelefse had drawn forth a rolled- net glistening twine that shone like spider silk. tossed one end the archaeologist and began back away. Only when the twine was fully extended did the old man point the limestone pinnacle and shout. “Now, young friend! Cast , over the top A disbelieving Cody frowned the hundred-foot-high spire. “What, this—fishing net? What good will

that The twine was light air his fingers, which meant that while its weight presented problems, having mass would make next impossible throw any distance. “Just throw Oelefse was watching the bunyip, sloughing downslope toward them. Thus far had slaughtered only Interlopers. The more its azure tint deepened, the longer lingered, the denser became. Another minute two would see sufficiently solidified this reality where could begin impact humans. They had very little time. “ three! Bin, zwei Given time think, Cody did was told. his considerable surprise, the net soared into the mist its own volition, easily cresting the point rock and floating down the other side. either side the spire, the loose ends hung trailing the air. Something slammed into the ground nearby. Eyes wide, Cody saw the incensed bunyip swiftly bearing down them. Its rapidly curdling footsteps began have impact the earth. Upslope, Kelli was sitting and screaming. The drone the didgeridoo had drifted, swallowed distance. Dimly, heard Oelefse shouting him. “Now—run Stumbling backwards, Cody fought for balance and did was told, his long legs carrying him downslope ducked beneath the bottom flap the glistening net. Limestone boulders protruding from the rich, loamy soil threatened trip him , and the steepness the grade promised a serious, possibly fatal fall lost his footing. Behind him, the bunyip howled insanely, tentacles reaching for the two humans still standing. crashed into the net that lay draped over the apex the monolith. Instantaneously entangled, flailed and struck out wildly. The impact its headlong rush generated a rumbling sound Cody immediately recognized from the time had spent South America. was once familiar and terrifying. Earthquake. Expending every iota the unimaginable energy which was heir, the bunyip fought free itself from the increasingly restrictive netting. did , yanked the entire limestone pillar infinitesimally forward. Yanked the Hook, Cody realized was thrown the ground and found himself rolling downhill. Deep within the Earth’s crust, the effect the bunyip’s sudden, violent lunge was disproportionately magnified with increasing distance. The quake thus generated rolled through the outer islands New Guinea and down through the mainland. Karkar and Manam volcanoes erupted simultaneously, spewing hot ash and fiery lava into a pristine sea. From the Gazelle Peninsula the mountains the north, the ground trembled and heaved. There was fear, but panic. The inhabitants one the most seismically active parts the world were used such tremors. Its kinetic energy growing orders magnitude, the tectonic oscillation raced down the length the Hook, rattling every city and village Irian Jaya raced northwestward beneath the Celebes Sea. Passing deep under Indochina, did more than shake teacups Nang and disturb priests’ prayers Mandalay. anyone able track its progress would have seemed that its strength had been lost, dissipated the depths the continental crust. reality, the exact opposite was true, but the effects did not become apparent until the traveling fluctuation reached the end the Hook—sunk securely into the fabric the planet deep beneath the Deosai Range. a part the world where a mountain must rise above twenty-five thousand feet simply considered high, twenty-one thousand-foot Muat Kangri drew little notice. Ignored international climbers and locals alike, its comparatively moderate slopes overlooked the pass between the villages Kargil and Marol;

between Indian-held and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir. Through that pass ran the only paved road between the two disputed territories. was through this defile that the massive Indian force that had been assembling secret the city Srinagar planned roll. Muat Kangri, however, possessed one characteristic the taller, more impressive mountains that surrounded lacked: Its base, buried deep within the Earth, was the northernmost terminus the Hook. Striking with incalculable force, the ascending oscillation that had traveled unseen and largely unfelt beneath the Earth’s surface all the way from east New Britain wrenched the root the mountain like a dentist tugging a rotten tooth. Had anyone been present document the aftermath, would have been noted that the entire bulk the mountain actually shifted the northwest some two and a half inches. The result was a powerful but deep earthquake whose effects were devastating but highly localized. The most immediate and noticeable effect was the colossal avalanche and accompanying landslide that roared down the southern slopes Muat Kangri, completely obliterating the road through the pass. would take, declared the engineers who arrived the scene days later, months clear away enough rubble allow even one-lane, one-way traffic inch its way through the entombed pass. military buildup the size the one Srinagar could unnoticed for long. Quietly, unobtrusively possible, was disbanded, tanks and troop carriers and mechanized artillery dispersing their accustomed bases throughout the northern portion the subcontinent. one knew how close the two countries had come war and possible nuclear catastrophe. Subsequently weakened the polls and the elections that followed, the radical Bharatiya Janata party was never again a position contemplate extreme a mobilization aggressive forces the vicinity Kashmir-Jammu. Drawing the bullroarer from his briefcase, a perspiring Oelefse began whirl over his head. The deepthroated drone rose above the hum the forest and the muted shriek the entangled bunyip. With his free hand extracted something else from the open case and tossed toward his younger companion. Cody caught the oblong object reflexively. The shape was vaguely familiar. “What the hell I supposed with this Shouting heard above the moan the bullroarer and the wailing the bunyip, held high a solid-gold, intricately inscribed kazoo. “Blow ! When I give you the word, blow with all your strength Oelefse was spinning the bullroarer faster and faster. was indistinguishable blur now, its basso groan abrasive howl that sounded like whole mountains grinding past one another. “But the archaeologist began, “I don’t know how —!” “NOW Matching velocity direction, Oelefse let the string, sending the whistling bullroarer flying toward the bunyip just the cerulean monstrosity finally broke free its bonds and came hurtling down the slope toward them. Immediately, the old man threw himself the ground, face down, and covered his head with his hands. Vacating every alveolus his lungs, Cody blew what sounded him like extremely sour but very loud note the kazoo, whereupon did his best imitate his mentor’s actions. hit the ground, felt the wind a razor-edged blue tentacle descending toward him and smelled the fetid, otherworldly breath the bunyip his neck. Then exploded. Cobalt light suffused the surrounded atmosphere, tingeing the air with actinic aroma ozone and scorched flesh. Daring raise his eyes ever slightly, the archaeologist’s jaw dropped observed the graceful, lazy fall blue snow. Twinkling brightly they struck the ground, the fragments detonated

bunyip left little black streaks where they seared the earth. Several struck him and leaped unbidden his feet, slapping and flailing the hot spots his clothing. Nearby, Oelefse was performing the same energetic dance, albeit a more dignified and reserved Teutonic manner. When was reasonably certain was longer fire, a panting Cody fought his way back the slope. A sobbing Kelli met him halfway, near the base the limestone spire. Tjapu Kuwarra had recovered his cloak from the indisposed leader the raskols and had wrapped around her. Clutching his didgeridoo, stood shorts and shirt, his eyes alive with delight, his white beard streaked with blue had pushed his face deep into a brightly colored birthday cake. “Quite a bang the bunyip makes, ‘s’truth. She’ll right now Glancing over the dazed, sluggishly recovering raskols, made a face and raised his didg blow their direction. Yelping and moaning, the thoroughly intimidated would- assailants staggered for the cover the forest. Much their surprise, they found that despite their horrific, mysterious encounter the mountain, a man they felt healthier and happier than any them had quite some time. “The explosive situation Kashmir Cody thought ask when and Kelli last eased their tight embrace. Kuwarra and Oelefse exchanged a glance before the elderly German replied. “ everything there happened akin everything here, then should now have been alleviated, believe Kelli was shaking her head disbelief. “How you know that? How can you tell “Everything work here a grinning Kuwarra told her. “ reason why everything should not work there Taking a deep breath, surveyed the now tranquil, fog-shrouded mountainside. “Beaut country, this. Good place for sheep, maybe affected exaggerated shiver. “Too cold for old Tjapu, though “And too uncultured for Turning, Oelefse extended open hand. Wordlessly, Cody passed him the golden kazoo. The spider-silky net and his friend’s bull-roarer had been vaporized along with the bunyip. “I need a slice good torte, with lots chocolate, and a decent cup cappuccino “Might well look for that another dimension, mate Chuckling himself, Kuwarra turned back the two younger members the quartet that had just saved the world— a significant segment , anyway. “How about you blokes? What you want now? back your teaching, I guess Standing the steep flank the green mountain, enveloped mist and rain forest, Cody’s gaze met that his wife a long, contemplative stare. When finally responded Kuwarra’s query, knew was doing for the both them. “ you don’t mind, I think Kelli and I would like learn a little more about this Society you and Oelefse belong . does dovetail somewhat with our work, you know “And maybe Kelli added hesitantly she clung her husband, “sometime the future, conditions were right and absorbed the necessary precepts, could even join? Just for reasons self-defense, course “ course Tjapu Kuwarra’s expression turned uncharacteristically solemn. “The Interlopers are ever active, and always hungry. They have always been with , holding mankind back, impeding our progress, feeding off our misery and despair. the job those who belong the Society our best see that they starve Extending his hands, took one Kelli’s and one Cody’s each his. His long fingers grasped theirs powerfully, his firm grip belying his age. Deeply felt emotion seemed flow from the old man into them, raising their spirits and warming their souls. “The help those who have learned perceive always welcome “Good Wincing suddenly, Kelli reached down grab her stomach. Cody reacted with alarm. “What, what ? Something else the matter

“Yeah she turned look him, her grimace was replaced a smile, radiant and gloriously free the multiple torments from which she had suffered for far too many weeks. “It’s strange, but for the first time since I can remember, I think I’m actually hungry. stomach’s empty it’s growling “That’s okay her relieved husband managed reply, “ long you’re not feeling blue