Fonziebirds: Trouble With Tracys

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 1: In the Dark of the Night

The light flickered and sputtered as the lit candles burned steadily. Across the room, a figure moved. The light shone off a dark head of hair and forehead. Knowing his slave awaited his order, he spoke in a low tone that sent shivers through the man standing behind him.

"Bring her to me."

The first man did not even turn around; he knew the slave would obey. He was too scared not to obey. A feeble light showed a twisted grin escape his normally emotionless face. The door was flung open, and two strong men came in, dragging a small, struggling figure. The shadows enveloped it, making it impossible for any to see the expression of loathing and something else on its face. Fear.

"Leave us." Soon they were alone. The small figure stood, barely able to contain the shivers of fear running through its body. The man walked slowly towards the small figure, eyes gleaming strangely in the candlelight. They seemed to almost glow red.

"And how are you today, Miss Jerome? What, no answer? Surely, you must have something to say." A slight chuckle rent the air. Before the small figure could make a sound, the man's white covered arm made contact with her head. She fell. Hard.

"Did that hurt, my dear? Tell me, were you scared?" The figure, now laying half way in the shaft of light, did not utter a sound. The man studied it as the legs, covered with white pants, struggled to lift the body off the unforgiving ground. His white shoes slipped and slid until they found traction. As soon as the shadowy figure stood, an invisible wall of force was flung from the man to the standing figure which was sent flying through the air until the small body made contact with the stonewall. Amazingly, there came no sound from the obviously hurting figure: no sharp cry of pain, no voice begging the torment to end.

"Still nothing? My dear, how long do you think you can keep this up? You've remained strong which is admirable. But how long can this last? Sooner or later, I'll win. I'll succeed with you as I'll succeed with International Rescue." As he said this, he grabbed her arm and pulled her close to his face. The candlelight fell full on his face highlighting the hard, determined face and cruel, cold dark brown eyes. This same fickle light continued to shield the young lady's face from sight.

"In fact, my dear, soon the Fonziebirds will be no more, thanks to me, the Candy Man. And your last hope'll be gone, won't it, dearest?" He flung her to the ground and pulled something from his shoulder holster. The girl flinched and raised a hand in a pitiful attempt to stem the horror to come.

As the man raised the whip to strike, his cold voice echoed through the room. "The Fonziebirds, like you, will be mine."

CRACK.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 2: Just a normal day

"Thank god it's been so quiet around here lately. The pressure and strain were really starting to get to us all, Dad." the young man stretched and moved to a more comfortable position in the chair. He looked over to the older man sitting across from him.

"I know, son; twenty rescues in two weeks is insane. I'm glad these last few days have been peaceful..." The two men jumped up quickly as what seemed like tons of freezing cold water spilled over their heads. Turning quickly to look behind them, they saw, respectively, their brother and son Richard a.k.a 'Richie' shaking with laughter with a water hose in his hands.

"Richard, you..." Howard Tracy was, unusually, at a loss for words. However, his second oldest son Warren a.k.a 'Potsie' knew precisely what to do. Braving the spray of water still shooting from the hose, he rushed his younger brother. Years of training, both in the Air Force and later with International Rescue, came into play as he grabbed his brother and quickly rendered him incapable of further harm with a headlock. He then picked up his trickster brother and threw him unceremoniously into the large swimming pool. Comically brushing his hands together, Scott turned to his father.

"Well, as peaceful as possible with him," jerking his thumb over his shoulder, "around." Howard chuckled and moved to sit back down in the now drenched beach chair. As he moved towards the chair, music began coming from his side pocket. As Howard pulled out his cell phone, he noticed peripherally that all of his terrestrial sons were glancing over, eager to know who the caller was.

Howard quickly flipped open the small phone and saw the caller was his oldest son, Arthur a.k.a 'Fonzie', who was serving his duty up on International Rescue's space station. As the cell phone's song continued, he paused briefly, thinking about his handsome son. Fonzie was home only a few months out of the year because he served his duty aboard Fonziebird 5. Not that either one would complain. They both knew the whole Tracy family had to make sacrifices so International Rescue could function. Even though they did not mind too much, since it meant saving lives, sometimes selfishly, Howard wished they could live the life of billionaires as they pretended.

Mentally shaking himself, he said "Hey, Fonzie." Immediately, he heard his son's voice, he sounded amused.

"Yo, Dad. Just wanted to check in with all of you. Tried to contact you in the control room but obviously you weren't in there. Just thought you might want to know that this lull looks to be around for a while. Nothing goin' on." Howard nodded and smiled.

"Thanks, Fonzie. Guess it must be kind of boring up there right now."

"It ain't too bad, dad. My book's keepin' me busy right now. I'm just choosing some photos the telescope Al installed up here took the other day. I'll send some down to you later. They're fabimundo." Howard attempted to smother the smile that was trying to break free. Of his sons, only Fonzie and Charles a.k.a 'Chachi' had shown any inclination of sharing his love of space, though by necessity, Chachi was a pilot of Fonziebird 3. Potsie came close with his love of flying jets the fastest and wildest ways he could. However, none of the brothers would ever tell another of their brothers they were not interested in what the other one was doing. Potsie especially made sure he knew the interests of each of his brothers and took active interests in them.

"Thanks, Son. I know the others'll want to see the images as soon as possible. Anything else we need to know?" Both of them would have liked to talk for hours but they all knew that Fonzie needed to constantly monitor the radio waves Fonziebird 5 picked up for potential rescues. Besides, communications with base needed to be kept strictly for business purposes. Howard sighed internally. This was one of the problems with a secret family rescue organization. But the rewards far outweighed the problems, most of the time.

"No, Dad. Everything fine for now. See you later."

"Good bye, son." Fonzie signed off and Howard snapped the phone cover down with more force then necessary. Potsie glanced at him then walked over and laid a hand on his father's shoulder. He gave him a slight squeeze, nothing more. In this family of all men, one gesture was usually all it took. They had been through the fire together and knew each other better then most families did. They all knew and they all understood. And they all wanted to continue despite the bad times.

Howard Tracy cleared his throat and nodded. Potsie walked off and started a low conversation with Ralph.

Just another day in the life of the Tracys. So they thought.

Across the ocean, in the small town of Maryville, Tennessee, two young people were parked at the overlook above the town. Jason and Meredith had been dating for six months and both felt that they were finally in a relationship that was going somewhere. This was their favorite spot because of its secluded location. In between kisses, Jason asked Meredith if she would be willing to wait until he finished college before marrying him.

"I just don't want to make the mistake my dad did and have to constantly worry if the plant'll take my job or not. I want to be able to provide for you and our future children."

Meredith was about to answer him when they heard two muffled thuds. Suddenly, their world was turned upside down. Jason's head hit the steering wheel while Meredith hit the dashboard. Both were knocked instantly unconscious.

Two hours later.

"Calling International Rescue! Calling International Rescue!" Fonzie raced to the control board and switched on the microphone.

"International Rescue, what's the sitch?"

"I'm the mayor of Maryville, Tennessee and we've got two of our young people trapped halfway up a cliff which overlooks the town. There was an overlook up there and they seemed to have parked up there. For some reason, we still don't know, the cliff just crumbled and sent them straight down. Luckily, a tree stopped them halfway down but it looks like it'll give way at any time. There has been no contact with the two victims. Can you help us? None of our rescue equipment can get near the area." Fonzie let a brief grin escape. Here was a supposed 'hick' mayor who had just given out his information in the most orderly manner ever. Fonzie was very impressed: no screaming, no wailing, and no hyperventilating.

"Sir, International Rescue can help you. If you'll stand by, I'll contact base and let them know the sitch."

"Yes, of course. Thank you! Thank you!"

"Yo, Fonziebird 5 to Base. Fonziebird 5 to Base."

Back on their tropical island hideaway, Howard was seated behind his desk in his office while Chachi, the youngest Tracy, was watching a small TV from the sofa in the corner. Howard was so glad to have his whole family together for the summer as Chachi was at school for most of the year. The rest of the family was spread out at different jobs around the island. Howard was about to go join his youngest when a small beep echoed through the room. Howard and Chachi's eyes instantly focused on the plasma screen on the desk. A quick push of a button brought Fonzie's face onscreen.

"Go ahead, Fonzie."

"Dad, the mayor of Maryville, Tennessee just called and requested our help."

Howard leaned over and pushed another button on the desk. This was the klaxon, which could be heard in every corner of the house and let everyone know at once that International Rescue was again needed. While the three Tracys waited, Fonzie filled them in on the details. Thundering footsteps precluded the rest of the people Howard Tracy called family.

Potsie was the first one through the doorway. Not giving him a second to slow, Howard said "Potsie, set out in Fonziebird 1. Fonzie'll brief you on the way."

"F.O.N.Z." As the rest moved to give him space, Potsie hurried over to the wall behind the desk. Here was a huge picture showing each of the boys and Howard in front of the house. Suddenly, the picture began to fade and six portraits took its place, Howard and his sons in their IR uniforms. Potsie's portrait swished to the side revealing a platform. Stepping onto the platform, the portrait slid back into place and the platform dropped. Potsie gripped the handrails tightly as he felt the platform's freefall begin to slow. When it came to a stop, he got out and ran to his ship, a large silver ship with the words Fonziebird 1 written vertically down it. Potsie moved quickly to the pilot's chair and started the preflight checks. Potsie quickly changed into his off-white uniform with the blue piping. He was glad they had decided against implementing the bright blue uniforms with the sashes and the hats. Besides being less practical, he had felt the bright blue uniforms would be the same as having a sign on the back saying 'Shoot me, I'm International Rescue.' Walking back to the pilot seat, he buckled the safety belts and saw that the preflight check had showed everything was normal.

Flicking a switch, he asked "Fonziebird 1 to base, do I have clearance to launch?"

His father's voice came over the speakers "F.O.N.Z." Potsie pushed both of the levers forward and smiled briefly as he heard the engines power up. With a roar, the great ship raced upward through the swimming pool which innocently hid the fastest jet the world had ever known.

Potsie leveled her off horizontally and checked his instruments. Fonzie had sent enough info into the computer to tell him where to head. He pointed his plane towards the California coast and pushed the speed up to 7500 mph. The radio crackled to life.

"Fonziebird 5 to Fonziebird 1."

"Fonziebird 1 to Fonziebird 5, go ahead, Fonz."

The bushes moved ever so slightly as if a wind had rustled them. The firemen and police, who were standing around waiting for the famed International Rescue to show up, didn't notice. If they had, at least one would have wondered since there was no wind.

"Fonziebird 2 to Fonziebird 1. Pots, do you read me?"

"Reading you strength 5, Ralphie. Fonz brief you on the situation?"

"Yeah. I'm 25 minutes from danger zone."

"F.O.N.Z. I'm landing now."

Potsie landed his plane as close to the cliff as he felt was safe. He didn't want his VTOL rockets to cause the car to move anymore. As he stepped out, he saw a few people hurrying to greet him. He began unloading the Mobile Control unit.

"International Rescue? I'm the mayor of Maryville. We're so grateful you've come."

"Well, it's our job to give help where it is needed. My name's Warren and I've got some buddies right behind me. I need some place big for them to land."

"They can land in my field, Young man. Right over there. It's close by. I'm Mr. Robertson, Jason's father."

"The guy trapped up there? Right. Thanks. That helps a lot. Could some of you help me set up my Mobile Control unit?" Within minutes, it was ready.

"Mobile Control calling Fonziebird 2."

"Go ahead, Mobile Control."

"Ralph, I've got your landing coordinates. Land quickly, then get over here. We need to talk about how to affect this rescue." Chachi glanced at Richie. That didn't sound good.

Fonziebird 2 landed and began raising itself so that the pod door could lower. Potsie already had the police chief assign men to guard both vehicles because the Tracys knew from experience that there were several evil people-the Candy Man being the first to come to mind-that wanted nothing so much as the Fonziebird craft and International Rescue's secrets. Ralph, Chachi and Richie ran over to where Potsie was seated.

"Okay, guys, here's the sitch. Two teenagers, Jason Robertson and Meredith Baker, are trapped in that car," Potsie pointed above them to where a blue car swayed slightly in the branches of a tree. "The Police Chief tells me that they believe the car was parked on the overhang above," he pointed still higher. "And it seems the area where the car was parked crumbled."

Richie's attention was held by the still crumbling cliff face. "Why did the overlook collapse now? Did they have any reason to believe that it was unstable?" Potsie shook his head.

"I don't know and right now, that's not our concern. Out concern is getting those two people out of the car and to safety."

Chachi spoke up. "Potsie, how are we going to get to the people?" Potsie smiled at him.

"We're going to winch down one of us to the car. They'll ascertain the stability of the car and the shape the passengers are in. Then we'll use the winch to lift them up one at a time. Any questions?" Ralph nodded.

"Who's the lucky one?" Potsie winked.

"Well, since we need someone to operate Fonziebird 2 and keep her steady while they're being winched down, you're out. You're the best pilot of her and we'll need your expertise. I'm out because I've got to man Mobile Control. Richie's out because he's got the greatest experience with winch control. I guess that leaves..."

"Me! It leaves me," Chachi fumed. "I knew it. I'm the smallest and weigh the least. It had to be me!"

Richie winked and said "'Sides, these two are too old. They wouldn't be able to do it." Potsie and Ralph rolled their eyes. The 'old' jokes were getting... well...old. As everyone moved to his assigned positions, Potsie grabbed Chachi's arm.

Lowering his voice, he said "Be careful, Chach, okay? This is tricky and...well we sure won't want to lose you. Who else would we torment?" Chachi gave Potsie a warm grin.

"I'll be careful. After all, who else do you have besides Rich to crack old jokes at you?" Potsie sighed as Chachi walked toward Fonziebird 2 to get into his harness. It was so hard as field leader to send your own brothers into harm's way. But as he had said, this was their job. What was that line..."With great power, comes great responsibility."

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 3: The Rescue and the Surprise

Ralph activated his VOTL rockets and lifted off. The large, green ship lifted off and quickly moved over the small blue car. Ralph made sure he was much higher then he should be, then activated the down thrusters in short bursts. The car and tree started to sway.

"Ralph! Stop!" Reflexes born of constant training hours and the trust in a brother born of months together helped Ralph shut off the thrusters just before the rescue turned into a retrieval operation. Ralph wiped sweat from his forehead and then rubbed his sweaty palms on his uniform. He had almost blown it. A crackle from the radio signaled Potsie's call.

"Hey, Ralphie. It's okay. The tree held. Thank God your reflexes are so quick. You okay?" Ralph ruefully shook his head. Sometimes, he thought Potsie knew him better then he knew himself. Of course, the reverse was also true. He probably knew Potsie better then Potsie knew himself.

"Fine, Pots. Just a little shook. If you ha..." Potsie sent him a look.

"There's no reason to feel like that, Ralph. Now. Let's rescue some people. You're at a good height and I think that Chachi can get to the car without worrying about too many trees or their branches. Better send him down with some cutters though. He probably will have to clear some stuff out of his way."

"F.O.N.Z."

Chachi triple checked the last hook and sent Richie a quick thumbs up signal. Richie nodded then flipped a switch. Chachi leaned over to look down at the ground. Despite Ralph's good piloting, they were still much higher up than Richie would have liked. His specialty was water, he had a fear of heights. That was especially funny since the plan had been all along that Chachi would go into the space program after he graduated from college. Then, he knew Richie was going into the World Aquanaut Security Patrol after graduating from college. But for now, he was still a kid. However, ever since the huge incident with the Candy Man, both his father and his brothers had been giving him more responsibility. Chachi was reveling in it. So, yes he would kid Potsie about not wanting to go but in reality, he would do this and more. It felt so good to be trusted by his hero brothers. He looked over to his closest brother and nodded. Then he stepped out into thin air.

Within 30 minutes, Chachi was beside the car. He cautiously opened the driver's side door. The boy, Jason, was slumped over the steering wheel. Chachi didn't like the angle of his neck and radioed Richie.

"Okay, Chach. I'll send down the neck brace along with the VLS (visual life signs) and the back board."

"F.O.N.Z." Chachi turned his attention back to the young man. Man, he's only a few years older then me. Probably Rich or Ralph's age. I sure hope he doesn't die. He's still got so much life to live.

A sound made Chachi turn and see the orange backboard. He put the neck brace on Jason carefully and then began the problem of getting him out without hurting him further. A groan caused him to raise his head too quickly and it made contact with the top of the doorway. Rubbing it ruefully, he glanced at the young woman who was now blinking at him groggily.

"How are you, Miss?" She winced as her hand encountered the large bruise on her forehead.

"Aside from a headache as big as Mt. Everest, I'm doing pretty well. Jason! Is he okay?" Chachi shook his head.

"He's not doing too good. If I come around and help you out of the car, could you lie on the backboard and let my bro...buddy winch you up? That would allow me more room the get him out." Meredith nodded. Chachi quickly radioed Richie and Potsie and filled them in on the change of plans. Soon, Meredith was being lifted to safety and Chachi was once again stuck with the problem of moving Jason when he should not be moved. His wristwatch suddenly beeped and Potsie's face appeared in the face.

"Chachi, a Mr. Thompson is coming up to assist you. He's a trained medic and we all agree you will need help moving Jason since he's unresponsive. Rich'll let down the line to him and winch him up to you position when he gets to the tree. Sound good to you?" Chachi sighed with relief.

"F.O.N.Z."

Richie radioed Chachi and told him Thompson was in position. Chachi was soon shaking hands with a man roughly his father's age. He was worried the medic would comment on how young he was but Thompson was too worried to notice that the International Rescue operative was only sixteen years old. Quickly but with infinite care, the two rescuers moved Jason to the backboard. As they strapped him in, they both let out a breath they hadn't known they were holding. Chachi hurriedly hooked the young man to the VLS and was relieved to hear the steady beeping. Jason was not in the greatest shape but he was holding his own.

Richie winched the young man up and quickly moved him on a hovercot to Fonziebird 2's sickbay. He then hurried back to the winch controls. He sent the winch down while radioing Chachi. Mr. Thompson was quickly winched up and shown to the sickbay where he got to work on Jason.

Richie radioed Chachi to get him ready for the line. Suddenly, a wind shear rocked the huge ship. Ralph fought the controls and finally, the wind slackened. The radio crackled to life and Richie relayed his bad news to his older brother.

"The line's snagged in a tree 5 meters away from Chachi. Im gonna have to climb down the line and untangle it."

"Rich! That's too dangerous! There's got to be another way." Richie shook his head.

"Just keep her steady, Bro."

All of the Tracys could hear the interchange. Howard's face went a shade whiter and he rested his head on his arms. Fonzie stood stock-still. Potsie gripped the control panel while Chachi stared helplessly up at the opening where his brother was making a hard decision. One slip and a Tracy could die.

Ralph swallowed the goose egg sized lump in his throat and slowly nodded. Richie got a safety line and attached it to the harness he was already wearing. He placed the two magnets on either side of the hold and then checked to make sure they were secure. When he was certain, he stepped out into the air. The line held. Exhaling the breath he was nervously holding in, he flicked the switch on the control box on the harness and was slowly lowered to the twisted line.

Chachi could see his brother moving slowly to the cable. He saw Richie land near it and stop the line. Alan radioed Mobile Control.

"Pots, Rich reached the winch line and...yes, he's got it untangled. He's taking it with him and will soon send it down to me...Pots? Are you there? Do you copy? Pots, answer me!"

Thirty minutes earlier.

"Boy, you guys sure do a great work. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. My son probably wouldn’t have made it. By the time the police and volunteer fire department had got to them..." Potsie smiled at the appreciative father.

"No problem, Mr Robertson. I'm just glad our operative found them alive." Potsie nodded to a man who had come up next to Mr Robertson. The rather large man was wearing dark clothing and was tall. Robertson shook the man's hand.

"Mr DiMaggio, good to see you. Warren, this is Mr DiMaggio. He moved here only two weeks ago but he's already become a part of the community. He helped fix the sewer problem we've had since the line was put in and is helping all of us paint the courthouse." Potsie smiled at the man while a shiver ran up his spine. As unobtrusively as possible, he turned on the Mobile Control's recording device. He didn't care what Robertson said. Mr DiMaggio was one scary man.

Mr DiMaggio bowed to Potsie and said "Thanks for saving those kids. They're our future." Potsie nodded and they turned to watch Jason being lifted up. Suddenly, Mr Robertson dropped to the ground. Potsie rushed over to him and checked his pulse. Everything was fine; it was almost as if he had just fallen asleep. With this thought, Potsie jumped to his feet while turning around at the same time. There stood Mr DiMaggio with a syringe in one hand and a gun in the other pointed straight at Potsie's heart.

"Warren, there's no reason for this to end in violence. Just drop your laser pistol and put your hands on your head. You're going on a little journey." Potsie's deep blue eyes turned almost grey with the steely glare he shot at the man.

"Okay." Slowly, he let the gun drop and then put his hands on his head. He knew no one would notice. Everyone was about 10 meters away watching the rescue. DiMaggio moved slowly over to him, pulling out a pair of handcuffs. Just as he was about to snap the first one on Potsie's wrist, Potsie's leg shot out and tripped him. Soon they were wrestling, each one giving the other some good punches. Abruptly, Potsie stiffened and then went limp. DiMaggio looked up at one of his operatives. He nodded, holding up an identical syringe to the one used on Robertson.

DiMaggio kicked Potsie off him. The boss had said the Fonziebird men would be difficult. He was glad he had listened and brought several men with him. The operative spoke softly to him.

"Is this the one the boss wanted?"

"Yeah. The leader, the one we'd find behind the control box. See, the blue edges on his uniform. Yeah, this is him."

"Shouldn't we also bring the box?" DiMaggio held up his hand for silence. Over the speakers of the control box he could hear the one his boss hated the most; "Pots? Are you there? Do you copy? Pots, answer me!"

"No, they're calling him. They'll soon investigate. Get the others. We gotta get out of this place." The operative bowed and hurried off the gather the men. DiMaggio grabbed one of the limp arms of his prisoner and started to lift him up. However, Potsie's limp body proved heavier then he had expected and he lost his hold on the body. As the limp form fell to the ground, DiMaggio instinctively reached out and tried to grab one of his arms. The sound of tearing fabric was accompanied with a slight thud as Potsie's body hit the ground hard. Cursing silently, the man let go of the scrap of cloth that had been left in his hand and picked up the unconscious Potsie. He had to move from this place. Someone would soon come and investigate.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 4: The Shanghaiing of Potsie

As soon as Chachi was inside the ship, Ralph hurriedly shot Fonziebird 2 up. He quickly landed and helped unload Jason and Meredith, who had lost consciousness. When they were loaded into the ambulances, he ran with Richie to Mobile Control; Chachi had headed there as soon as Fonziebird 2 had landed. Both Ralph and Richie had heard Chachi screaming for Potsie to answer and both had heard the silence that had followed. When they reached Mobile Control, they were stunned by what they saw. Chachi was holding onto a scrap of cloth and staring at nothing while one of the fireman and a policeman were hovering around a man lying on the ground.

Ralph walked up to the man they all knew as the mayor and asked "What happened? Where's Potsie?" The mayor looked at him sadly.

"We don't know. We were all standing over there watching the rescue, when we heard this young man," pointing to Chachi. "Screaming for Warren. We hurried to see what was going on. When we got here, we found Tad...uh Mr Robertson where he is now and no sign of your friend or Mr DiMaggio who was with them." Ralph nodded trying not to show how worried he was. The fireman stood up and approached the mayor.

"Mr. Dixon, Tad's been drugged. We found a mark on his arm made by a syringe and besides, he ain't truly asleep, just unresponsive," Eyeing Ralph, he said "We know a lot about drugs. Too many of our young people are into them." Ralph nodded; he was so numb that he could not think of anything to say. He glanced over at Chachi and then slowly made his way over to him. Placing one artistic hand on his kid brother's shoulder, he knelt next to him.

"How're you holding up, Chach?" Chachi didn't answer but passed him the piece of cloth. Ralph glanced at it and then took a closer look. It was from his brother's sleeve. And right in the middle was a small pinprick of blood. They must have drugged him too; though by the looks of the ground, I'd say they fought first. Unexpectedly, he felt someone tap his shoulder. Spinning swiftly around, he found Richie standing there with the saddest look Ralph had ever seen.

"What?" Richie shook his head and grabbed his arm. He led him over to the Mobile Control and pushed a button. Suddenly, voices could be heard.

"Thanks for saving those kids. They're our future." One of the rescue men looked around before his eyes fell on the control unit.

"That's Mr DiMaggio's voice on the recording. Hope you guys can find out what's happened to your operative and him. We're moving Tad now, catch you later." None of the Fonziebirds operatives heard him; their whole focus was on the recording.

Ralph would have hugged Potsie if he were here. He had turned on the recorder. Ralph didn't understand why but he hoped there would be a clue in the dialogue telling them what had happened. Then he tensed as he heard the next line.

"Warren, there's no reason for this to end in violence. Just drop your laser gun and put your hands on your head. You're going on a little journey."

Ralph was listening very hard now. This Mr DiMaggio guy's obviously part Italian and if he is, he's most likely working for only one person...

"Alright." Sounds of a scuffle ensued, then silence. Ralph was about to walk away when Richie held him back.

"Wait." Then he heard it. Someone was speaking in mobster slang like in the movies Little Ceaser and the Public Enemy.

"Pots? Are you there? Do you copy? Pots, answer me!" A few more words in the mobster's language, then there were the sounds of someone walking away, someone laden down with something. Ralph couldn't help himself. He slammed his fist down on the button to stop the recording and walked off. Richie just stood there gaping. Ralph never let anyone see him angry or flustered. He was the cool headed one of the bunch. However, Richie couldn't fault him for the outburst. Ralph and Potsie were closer then any of the other brothers; they often seemed to act as one on rescues. For one to lose the other was unthinkable.

Potsie's limp body was thrown in the back of 'Mr DiMaggio's' black caddilac. With a squeal of tires, the caddilac zoomed away from the rescue scene out onto the highway. Eugene's lips moved in such a way that one could call it a smile, though most wouldn't as it radiated pure evil. He would be paid well for this...service. His boss wanted the field leader of the Fonziebirds and Eugene was bringing him. His operative was sitting in the back seat with the IR leader, checking to make sure he was alive. He gave a quick nod. Thirty minutes later, Eugene parked the caddilac next to a small plane, which they were hiding on an abandoned airstrip. The rest of his team were already prepping the plane and hiding the vehicles they had stolen for this operation.

Eugene pulled the still drugged Potsie from the backseat and carried him over to the plane. In the main hold, a medical gurney was set up. Potsie was unceremoniously dumped on it and strapped in. Eugene was about to hook an IV onto his arm when he noticed it. Muttering harsh obscenities at his men and himself, he tore the watch from Potsie's arm and stomped outside the plane.

"Guard him." he barked to the nearest man. He quickly disappeared inside. Eugene turned on the rest of his men.

"Sticky, take this. Drive out to the large lake a few miles back and drop it into the water. But before you do, push this button. Not now, you fool! Do this and then take this money and fly back to base. We'll be waiting for you." The man nodded and hurried to do his leader's bidding. Sticky had served with Eugene on many of his jobs for their boss and they trusted each other, at least as much as two men in their situation in life can trust.

Eugene marched back into the plane, only to find their prisoner slowly gaining consciousness. Eugene sent the guard to co-pilot the plane and he smiled as the plane lifted off. The rest of his men would use different commercial airlines and arrive back at base within the week. Their boss knew how to move without being seen and had taught this crack team of mobsters a good bit of his tricks. Eugene's focus was caught by the groan issuing from the man lying beside him.

Potsie slowly blinked his eyes that many women had called 'killer blue eyes' though he and his family did wonder if he would be as handsome if his father were not a billionaire. His eyes were having problems focusing at the moment and his head ached terribly. While still trying to get his uncooperative eyes to focus, he tried with his other senses to figure out where he was. The sound of an engine, a plane engine that he was not piloting, peaked his interests. What am I doing in a plane but not piloting it, His mind, which was sluggishly trying to start up again, reminded him that he had been at a rescue. This confused him further. If I was on a rescue, then who's driving Fonziebird 1? And why can't I seem to move anything below my neck? Am I injured? No. That didn't seem right.

He blinked. Yes, he had seen something move. Suddenly, his world came into brilliant focus, and just as quickly, his heart sank. There was Mr DiMaggio who he had fought with before the world went dark. This was definitely not Fonziebird 1 so he must be a prisoner. Slowly turning his head fully to the man next to him, Potsie opened his mouth and tried to speak. No word would come out.

"I imagine your mouth feels a little dry right now. That's to be expected since we had to drug you. Now, Warren, you're on a plane. We're taking you to our...boss who's pretty anxious to see you. However, to make sure you don't give us any more trouble, I'm afraid I'll going to have to drug you again. Just hold still, Warren." Potsie tried to not show the shudder that went through his body. This man knew who he was. He knew that IR was in fact the Tracy family. Only a few people were privileged with that info, and only one knew it that would do this. As the man inserted the IV needle into his skin, Potsie tried to speak again. This time, as he felt his mind slip into the darkness, he forced the word out.

"Candy Man."

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 5: Crushed Hopes and Despair

Fonzie jumped up from his chair so fast that it was sent skittering across the room. Richie had been informing him of Potsie's disappearance when a loud beep echoed through the space station. Fonzie ran over to a small control panel. This was the tracking station for the watches worn by all the members of International Rescue. Fonzie frantically pushed two buttons, then let out a shout of thankfulness. Potsie's signal was coming in clearly. Fonzie let out a quick prayer of thanks that his brother had been able to turn the tracking signal on. Running back over to the main control board, he hailed his younger brother.

"Rich, I got Potsie's watch signal on the tracking screen. It's at position S290-4r5."

"F.O.N.Z, Fonz! Thank God! Ralph's really starting to scare me."

"Well, he's the closest to Potsie." Richie nodded. As he signed off, Richie glanced over at his older brother. He was hoping with all his might that they would find Potsie soon. He did not want to see his brother have a nervous breakdown.

"Ralph, Fonzie got Potsie's tracking signal and gave me its current coordinates. The three of us can go in Fonziebird 1; it'll be faster. You'll need to lock down Fonziebird 2; I'm sure the mayor won't begrudge a few of the police officers watching it for a bit longer." Ralph nodded then suddenly threw his arms around his brother. Richie was deeply shocked.

"Thanks, Ralph. I guess…I must be acting like an idiot. It's just…" Richie just shook his head.

"Don't apologize." Ralph gave him a warm smile then hurried to lock down his bird and inform the mayor of the extended need of his officers. Within minutes the sleek jet had risen and was shooting off towards the small electronic signal that represented hope to these young men.

Fonzie looked at the button and sighed. He had been putting this particular action off as long as he could but it could no longer be helped. Their father had to know that one of his sons was missing. He had not been contacted since Fonzie had accidentally let him hear the interchange between Richie and Ralph. He had assured Howard that he was okay right before Chachi's shout sent their attention scurrying to Potsie. Now it was time. He hated this. He hated it more then anything but within a few minutes, Fonziebird 1 would be at Potsie's signal; so there was nothing to worry about, right? Fonzie wished he could convince himself of this. Something told him this was far from over.

"Fonziebird 5 to Base."

"Go ahead, Fonzie."

"Dad…whoa." Howard knew instantly that something was wrong. His eldest son had the ability to tell quickly and concisely the facts. When Fonzie paused or was at a loss for words, Howard knew he was about to hear something he did not want to.

"What is it, Fonzie? Just tell me." Fonzie swallowed. Howard was trying to help him but it was useless. Nothing could make this easy.

"Dad, we fear that Potsie's been…taken. Ummmm…we got a recording that sounds like he was struggling then there's silence. Ralph, Rich and Chach ran to Mobile Control but he was gone. There's good news though. We're tracking his signal and they should be there any minute now." Howard couldn't move or speak. He couldn't even tell Fonzie off for not contacting him sooner.

"I'm…sorry, Dad that I didn't contact you sooner but we…hoped we would find him quickly. I'm sorry."

Howard sighed then looked up.

"No, Fonzie. You don't need to apologize. You were right. You would have wasted time if you had contacted me before, time that Potsie might need," Howard fixed his eldest son with steely eyes. "Keep me informed though."

"F.O.N.Z. I'll leave the link open, Dad. Is that okay with you?" Howard nodded. He looked down at his paper littered desk and let one lone tear caress his cheek. His son, his second eldest son. God, may he be safe. A slight noise caused his head to snap up. There stood Al, the scientist who had become a good friend since the beginning of International Rescue.

"Mr. Tracy, what is it?" Howard got up from his desk; his head slumped to his chest. Still not answering, he walked over to the opposite wall. The wall that was one huge picture and yet more then that. It was a picture of himself and the five people he loved most in the entire world. His sons. There they were, wearing suits and ties, standing proud and strong.

"Mr. Tracy?" Howard turned to the Italian genius. Al had been with them since International Rescue's infancy. Without his phenomenal mind, IR would have quite literally never gotten off the ground.

"Al, Fonzie just contacted me. Potsie's missing. It looks like he might have been kidnapped. Fonzie's tracking the signal from his watch," Al gave an audible sigh of relief. "And the boys are heading towards it. I just hate feeling helpless."

"I know, Mr. Tracy. But your sons know what to do." Howard walked over to the Italian scientist and placed one hand on his fat shoulder.

"You're right as always, Al."

Ralph landed the sleek jet as close to origin of the signal as he could. When the three Tracy brothers had disembarked, Ralph set Fonziebird 1 in lockdown mode. No one would be able to get in except him or Howard. Potsie turned on his personal survivor tracker or PST and watched as the blue dot winked innocently. "I've got him, Ralph."

"Good. Let's go. And keep an eye out. The person or persons who took him could still be around." Chachi fell into step between his older brothers. He hoped they would be able to find Potsie aliv…well. He winced slightly when he thought that and Richie noticed.

"You okay?" he whispered. Chachi nodded. Right now, they needed to concentrate on Potsie. He would be fine when they found him, not before.

Sticky pressed his body closer to the tree. He silently cursed the damn machine that would not start. Though his boss had seen to it that all the men knew how to drive a car, he had not seen fit to teach them what to do if something went wrong. The car had innocently run out of gas but to Sticky, it appeared that the machine had ceased to function. He sighed. It would be a long walk to the airport and he did not know the language well enough to ask directions. Suddenly, he heard a slight crunch near him. Here they are, he thought. He would have to wait until International Rescue was gone before setting out. He only hoped they would not find him. Chachi noticed the dot was very near to them.

"It looks like it's just up ahead." As he said this, he ran forward ignoring the frantic cries from his two brothers. Unexpectedly, he came to an abrupt stop. He looked stupidly down at his boots that were now half submerged in the mud by a huge lake.

Ralph came up behind him, trying desperately to blink away the tears that were running down his cheeks. Richie checked his tracker and then checked it again. There was no mistake. The signal was coming from just a few feet from them under the water. Without a thought, Richie started stripping his uniform off. Ralph started to do the same. As he did so, he turned to Chachi.

"You stay here and keep a lookout. We'll try to be as quick as we can." Chachi nodded. No one wanted to say what was foremost on their minds; was Potsie down there…dead?

Quickly and effortlessly, both Tracy boys waded in and swam out a ways. Richie turned back to Chachi.

Knowing what his brothers wanted, he called out "Just a couple feet further, that's right. Now about five strokes to your right. There! You're right over it." Both Ralph and Richie disappeared from sight.

Sticky saw everything from his hiding place. International Rescue had found the watch almost with no effort at all. He had failed. Surely, with all their equipment, they would soon spot him too. But not if he could help it. He slid unobtrusively from his hiding spot and silently slinked over to the young man, the one his boss hated the most, standing by the lake. He would take at least one of them out before running. Then his boss would be proud. He would kill the one he hated the most. If he had stopped to think, he would have realized that it was the last thing his boss wanted done.

Richie pulled effortlessly away from his older brother. This was his element. He might not be able to compete with his older brothers in some areas but they did not have a prayer when it came to swimming. He scanned the bottom of the lake. Soon he would have to go up for air. If they could not find the watch…or Potsie then he and Ralph would have to have Chachi get the underwater gear from Fonziebird 2. Suddenly, a bright light blinded Richie momentarily. Then he saw it: Potsie’s watch, two feet away. Lungs bursting, he made a grab for it and missed. A second grab was successful and he quickly headed for the surface.

Chachi saw the signal move slightly and then up to the surface. One of his brothers must have found Potsie's watch. In another part of his brain, Chachi hoped that the watch was all they had found. Though it would make finding Potsie almost impossible, the hope of him being alive was better then the alternative. First Ralph's then Richie's heads broke the still surface of the water. Chachi waved to them and they began to swim towards him. Abruptly, Ralph stopped and began shouting at Chachi. Chachi couldn't understand what he was saying but just then, a small snap behind him warned him of the presence of another human being a second before it knocked him down to the ground. Hands wrapped instantly around his throat, the youngest Tracy struggled and began to kick at the man who was on top of him. It was a futile effort. Just as white spots began appearing before his eyes, the man suddenly slumped forward. Standing over him were two sopping wet figures. Richie reached out a hand and helped Chachi up. Meanwhile, Ralph was bending over the prone figure of the man who had attacked his brother. A groan emitted from the man's throat and Ralph quickly rose grabbing his gun off the ground at the same time.

Sticky shook his head. Whatever had hit him, it felt like it packed the same force as a semi. Glancing around without moving his head, Sticky saw two pairs of off white clad legs. Then the world fell around him and he felt himself being pulled up to a standing position. Two pairs of hands grasped his upper arms while the IR operative with the green piping lifted Sticky's head which was lolling around as if his neck had no strength left. The man spoke but Sticky could not understand what he said. Besides, he would not tell them anything. If his boss found that he had told anything to the detestable International Rescue, Sticky's life was less then worthless. Letting his arms hang limp, the fingers of his left hand fumbled with a small pocket on the side of his pants. Slowly and carefully, he pulled out it's content: a penknife.

Ralph sighed inwardly. They were not going to get anything from this unknown man. From his looks and the unknown language on the recording, Ralph would almost have bet he did not even understand English. With a flash of brilliance, he hailed Fonzie.

"Ralph to Fonziebird 5."

"Go ahead, Ralphie."

"Fonz, we found Potsie's watch at the bottom of a lake." Hearing Fonzie's quick intake of breath, Ralph hurried on.

"We didn't find Potsie, only his watch with the tracking signal turned on. We also found or rather Chachi was attacked by some guy. He looks Italian and I'm pretty sure he knows English. Could you try to talk to him?"

"Sure, Ralphie. Turn your watch so I can see him. I'm turnin' the recording device on now." Fonzie began asking him the same question in many different languages.

"Who are you?" Each time the man showed no sign of comprehension. Fonzie was about to give up when the man stiffened then threw off both Richie and Chachi's holds. Before any of them could react, he thrust a penknife near Chachi's neck and smiled.

"I'll never tell you, International Rescue. You'll never find your comrade 'til it's too late. Then you'll wish he was dead. Live with that. Boss, guess what I did for yo…" Horrified, the Tracys could only watch as the man jump and stab himself in the cheek by accident. Chachi, since he was the closest, bent down and felt for a pulse. He was still alive and with him, he wished that any hope of finding Potsie was dead.

After several horrible minutes, Ralph stirred first.

"We've got to get that crazy guy to the police, it's their job to discover all they can about that headcase. Then I'll call Dad." The younger Tracys exchanged glances. They knew that was going to be a hard conversation. Ralph unlocked Fonziebird 1 while Richie and Chachi carried the dead man up and into the ship. Within minutes, the IR members were giving their accounts of the man who almost killed Chachi to the police. After pledging to send all their information to Fonziebird 5, the police and firemen quit the scene. While Richie and Chachi stored Mobile Control in Fonziebird 1, Ralph sat in his pilot chair in Fonziebird 2. Flipping the radio switch, he got Fonzie to patch him thorough to Base. Drawing a deep, fortifying breath, Ralph addressed his father.

"Dad…"

"Ralph, how are all of you doing? Do you have news of Potsie?" Ralph chocked on his words. He could not do this. He could not tell his father. Hanging his head, he spent several seconds studying his hands.

"Son?" He looked into his father's haunted eyes.

"I'm sorry, Dad."

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 6: The Games have Begun

Eugene debarked from the small airplane and looked around. There, standing by the small metal storage unit for the plane, was his master, his dark head gleaming in the steamy Italy sunlight. Bowing to his boss, Eugene waited for the order to rise. When given it, he waited for leave to speak.

"What have you got me?" Eugene shuddered. His boss wasn't one to suffer fools or failures. Luckily, he was neither.

"I've got the one you wanted, Boss. He wasn't that difficult to capture. I disposed of his watch as you requested and turned the signal on too. He's drugged and has no idea where he is. Do you want me to bring him out?"

"Yes. Well done, Eugene. You'll be greatly rewarded and have my lasting pleasure. Take him to the audience chamber and chain him to the furthest wall. I want him to wake up confused."

"Yes, Boss." Bowing low, Eugene went off to fulfill his boss's request.

Eugene carried Potsie's limp form into what could only be called a throne room. One of his boss's lesser slaves followed him over to the wall facing the door. Eugene deposited Potsie's body into the slave's arms while he picked up one of the manacles hanging from the wall. Roughly, he shoved it over the limp hand and locked the manacle around his wrist. He quickly repeated this and signaled the slave to lean Potsie against the wall. Eugene expertly moved the chains so they gave the prisoner some freedom to sag but would cause maximum pain too. As soon as the slave let go of him, Potsie slumped forward. For one split second, it looked like the chains would not hold. Then with a metallic clang and a painful jerk of the arms, his body stopped. For one moment, Potsie's eyes flew open and a grunt of pain escaped his lips. Then his lids shuttered close and he slumped against the chains.

The heavy footsteps on stone made Eugene spin around to face the noise. His boss, the Candy Man, walked over to the young man hanging ingloriously from the wall. His eyes narrowed evilly as he studied the helpless figure. Swiftly, his foot shot out and hit the young man squarely in the chest. With a gasp and a groan, Potsie's eyes shot open. Blearily, he gazed at the shadowing figure in front of him. Suddenly, his eyes flew wide open. Gathering his strength, he planted his feet under him and pushed himself up. Standing erect, he glared at the evil man in front of him. Summoning up all the hate and loathing he felt for the man in front of him, Potsie spat his name in his face.

"The Candy Man." Bowing slightly, the evil man gazed triumphantly at the bound man. Here was the key to International Rescue. Since IR was made up of the Tracy family, they were very willing to protect their own. When one was in danger, the others focused all their attention on rescuing and helping that one member. The Fonziebirds would be crippled by their fear and sorrow over Potsie's disappearance. Pain. Ah, causing the Tracys pain was like balm to his restless soul. He hated them, hated them more then even he cared to admit. At every turn, they had frustrated his plans. But no longer. His plan was perfect. He would not fail.

Looking into Potsie's pain-filled but steely eyes, the Candy Man's mouth cracked into what could only be called a grin. But grins were never made to look like that particular one. It sent shivers of fear down Potsie's spine. Before he could react, the Candy Man's left arm lashed out hitting his head. Potsie's head smacked against the stone wall causing his eyes to momentarily lose focus. Before the prisoner could regain consciousness, the Candy Man struck. Karate chops to the chest, ribs, arms and head were alternated with kicks to the knees to cut his legs out from under him. Each time that happened, Potsie's body would start to fall only to be painfully jerked to a stop by the chains around his wrists. After several minutes of these attacks, the Candy Man stepped back and surveyed the damage. Potsie hung limply supported only by the manacles. Blood was running down from a cut on his forehead and his breathing was hoarse and painful. The attacks had left him unconscious and he would not be waking up anytime soon. The Candy Man allowed himself one genuine smile. The games had begun.

A silent and heartbroken group landed on Tracy Island. Ralph, Chachi and Richie, who had flown Fonziebird 1 home, met again in the lounge. There, the entire family had gathered. Their father was sitting behind his desk desperately trying to appear brave while the tear tracks down his face betrayed him. Marion was holding her daughter Joanie while giving Howard the support he needed. Al, who was fruitlessly trying to keep the tears at bay, was seated on the sofa in the corner. Finally, Fonzie's picture was lit up. However, no one could see his face. His head was in his hands and all anyone could see was the back of his head and his heaving shoulders.

Chachi went instantly to Joanie, leaving her mother to comfort Richie. Ralph stood just by the wall portrait and looked up at the figure of his brother. Ralph could not cry, he looked rather worried. He could only stare stupidly at the picture of his missing brother. Ralph knew in his heart that Potsie was not dead. If he was dead, no one would have removed his watch and disposed of it as they did. This thought scared him more than the thought of his missing brother. Only a few people knew the secret of the watches the Tracy men wore and most were in this very room. There was only one person who knew the Tracy's secret and would commit such a reprehensible deed: the Candy Man.

Howard's eyes latched onto his middle son. Slowly raising himself out of the chair, he moved over to him. Tenderly, he wrapped his arm around his worried redhaired son. Ralph flinched. He would not give into the tears that threatened. He had to be strong for his family, for Potsie. He would be… A sob ended all his thoughts and he finally gave into the fears and griefs that haunted him.

Finally, his tears slowed and then stopped. Amazed, he looked around the room. Everyone had left. Only he and his father were still there. Marveling, he then noticed that he was somehow seated with no knowledge of how he got there. Howard glanced at him.

"Are you better now, Son?"

"Yeah, Dad, thanks. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have…"

"Ralph, don't apologize. Now, tell me everything you know." An hour and a half later, Howard leaned back against the sofa. This had been planned. It had to have been, which meant that the crumbling overlook was no accident. Someone had deliberately plotted and carried out an attack against his son. There was only one person with the knowledge, cunning and most importantly, the hatred to carry it out. Ralph caught his father's eyes and nodded. He knew what Howard was thinking.

The Candy Man.

The next day, a cloud hung over the tropical paradise of Tracy Island. After breakfast, every member of International Rescue, including Fonzie and Lori Beth via tele screens gathered in the lounge. Richie, Chachi and Ralph debriefed everyone on the rescue and the subsequent disappearance of Potsie. When they had sat down, Lori Beth raised her question.

Beautifully flicking a stray dark hair from her face, she queried "Has anyone identified or translated the mobster talk those guys were using?"

Fonzie answered her. "We got a recording of it but I ain't had a chance to do anything with it."

"Could you play it now?" The polished American accent had a slight hopeful tone in it. Everyone was praying for a clue to this mystery. Perhaps this was it. Fonzie pushed a button on Thunderbird 5's control panel and soon, everyone could hear the recording from Mobile Control.

"Thanks for saving those two young people. They're our future. Thanks."

Everyone tensed when they heard the next phrase.

"Warren, there's no reason for this to end in violence. Just drop your gun and put your hands on your head. You're going on a little journey." Joanie teared up when she heard the man threaten Potsie's life. Potsie had always been there for her like the older brother she never had and now he was gone.

"Okay." No one breathed during the sounds of the struggle; then they heard someone speak again but this time in the mobster's language. Before anyone could puzzle on how they could discover the origin of the language, Marion drew in a surprised breath. All the Tracys, Al, Joanie and Lori Beth turned to look at her. Her eyes grew wide; then she hastily signaled to Fonzie to stop the recording.

Turning to the large group of people gaping at her, she said "I know what they're saying. They're speaking like Jimmy Cagney and Edward G. Robinson. I know that sort of talk becuase my brother's a mobster. Please, Arthur, play the recording again." Fonzie complied at once and everyone remained silent long after the recording ended.

Chachi was the first to voice the question foremost on everyone's mind. "What would the Candy Man want with Potsie? I mean, it would have been simpler for him to just kill Potsie there on the scene. Why set up a rescue then kidnap only one of us?" No one could voice an opinion. But everyone knew he was right. Howard looked into the faces of his loved ones and saw confusion and fearful thoughtfulness, the same feelings he was experiencing. Then his gaze fell on his faithful retainer. Marion's expression was fearful and troubled. As Howard was studying her, Marion caught his eye. Knowing what her employer was about to ask, she unobtrusively shook her head no. She should not say what he feared to the whole group, they were already traumatized enough. There was only one reason to take Potsie alive, to torture him, hold him for ransom or possibly both.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 7: Tenderness In The Bowels Of Hell

She heard the heavy footsteps heading for her cell. They were coming for her. Just the thought made her long to crawl into the corner and cower. But she would not. She would be strong. He had taken almost everything from her but she wouldn't give him her pride. Squaring her thin, scarred shoulders, she stood and waited for the guards to claim her for the daily 'session'. Shivering slightly in the humiliating inadequate clothing she was forced to wear, she waited while the guards questioned the slaves who had come to get her. This was for their protection. Their boss would be severely displeased if she should disappear. A key scraped in the lock and the heavy door swung open. While the slaves blocked the doorway, the guards advanced on her baring a curious device. She stood stock-still and betrayed no emotion while one guard brought one part of the device around her waist. The metallic band snapped into place and locked. Then the same guard grabbed onto her wrists while the other thrust a manacle over it and locked it into place. This was repeated with her other hand. Now she was ready. The two slaves grasped her upper arms and dragged her down the corridors. With every dwindling inch of freedom, the young girl became more and more anxious. By the time the group had reached the door to the throne room, she was struggling violently. A quick rap at the door brought her back to her senses. She would not show weakness to him. It would only lead to worse things. The door was thrown open and she was thrown in. A shadow passed over her prone figure pausing briefly as if to enjoy her discomfort. Before she could push herself up, the figure passed on and the door slammed shut. The click of the lock echoed through the chamber mixing with another sound. The girl laboriously got up as it was difficult to push herself up with her hands shackled.

Glancing around, she immediately spotted the unconscious figure hanging from the wall. Though she had seen many things during her imprisonment here, still the sight shocked her. She fearfully checked all the corners and all the shadows. Though she thought he had passed her when she had been lying by the door, she learned quickly here not to trust anything. However, her examination was not as thorough as it would normally have been. The sounds she had heard before where coming from the man hanging limply and obviously painfully from his shackles. It was his breathing that was echoing through the chamber and it didn't sound normal. Knowing how he worked, the first thing he had done was rough him up a bit and show him who’s boss. And his usual method was to bruise or break a couple ribs and let people suffer.

Footsteps whispered softly over the rough stones until the girl stood near the unconscious figure. His ribs needed to be bound immediately but it wasn't as if she could just ask for supplies. She looked desperately around the room looking for anything that could act as a bandage. Her hands strayed to her hair and she started doing her nervous habit. She would grasp a patch of hair and give it a tight squeeze then grab another handful and begin again. Suddenly, there it was. The solution was wrapped in her hair. The young woman quickly unwound the long silk scarf that was woven into her hair. Long cascades of dark hair fell to the small of her back. As she approached the figure, his uniform caused her to cease all movement. There on his right breast was the logo of International Rescue and on his right sleeve was spelled vertically 'Fonziebird'. The Candy Man had done it. He had kidnapped a member of International Rescue. This man could not have any idea what the Candy Man had in store for him.

Well he would not succeed if she had anything to do with it. Though she knew from experience that no one had ever escaped his clutches, she would work until her dying breath to see that the Candy Man did not get his evil way. Her shoulders back, eyes steely, she swore she would help this man escape.

Carefully and with tenderness, she undid the front of his shirt. Careful not to touch his painful ribs more then necessary, she quickly wound the long, sturdy silk piece around his torso. Getting as tight as she could without causing more damage, she neatly tied it off and did up his shirt again. Next, she checked his wrist and winced. Since he could not hold himself up, the metal of the shackles was eating into his skin. She was back where she had started. She had nothing to use as a cushion for his wrists. Looking around she came back to her slave outfit. It resembled something out of a desert movie. It looked like a small, turquoise two-piece swim suit that had see-through white silk sleeves and leg and mid-drift coverings. Completing the ensemble was a pair of turquoise silk slippers and at one time, her hair wrap.

Thinking quickly, she carefully tore the white silk from around her mid-drift. He had more need of the cloth then she did. Tearing it long ways, she went first to the right wrist. Carefully she grasped the limp arm and moved the wrist until there was enough room between it and the manacle to insert the cloth. Gently, she moved the cloth around the wrist until it was soon protected by a thick wad of silk. Quickly but as gentle as she could, she repeated the process on the left wrist. Standing back to view her handiwork, her eyes were drawn to his lowered head. For a moment, all seemed relatively, fine. Then, for an instant, her eyes caught a drop of red fall onto his uniform from the left side of his forehead. Swiftly, she tore off her left silk sleeve and folded it several times.

She stood right next to the unconsious figure and placed her right hand under his chin. Slowly, she lifted his chin up until she was looking him squarely in the face. Instantly, she jumped back and fell backwards a good ways from the still unconscious figure. Her mouth opened but no words came forth.

Slowly and deliberately, she got up and returned to the side of the unconscious man. She once again carefully lifted up his face until she could see his entire visage. Her eyes grew wide. There was no mistake, it was him. She opened her mouth and spoke his name but no words came out.

Potsie?!

No. It was impossible. Potsie and International Rescue, impossible! And yet, it made perfect sense. The Tracys had always been caring and kind to others. She knew that from personal experience. Potsie, in particular, had been a sweet and kind boy though he had hid his caring nature under a gruff and in control attitude. She was now even more determined to help International Rescue and foil the Candy Man's scheme.

Tenderly she wiped the trickle of blood, then, by tearing of her right sleeve, she made a compress and a bandage to wrap around his head. Standing back to survey her work, she noticed that he was beginning to wake up. She was extremely nervous about that. Would he remember her? Would he remember how…?

Potsie slowly opened his eyes. He didn't want to. There didn't seem to be a part of his body that didn't hurt. Wearily, he raised his head only to be confronted with a pair of large brown eyes. Before he could react, the young woman in front of him leaped backwards landing on her butt and instantly curling up into a little ball. For several long minutes, neither said a word. The female studied the floor and pulled her arms tighter around herself. The man studied the young lady. He didn't know quite what to think. The girl was dressed in something that was little more then a bikini. This was made of a blue-greenish cloth that looked like silk. Her legs were further covered thanks to a white see-through material that didn’t quite hide the fact that her legs were marked with lashes and old scars. These also covered her arms which must have been clothed with the white material at one time. Her dark hair flowed down her badly scarred back and onto the stone floor. She looked so scared and vulnerable that Potsie's heart went out to her. He had to help this poor creature.

"Hey, I'm not going to hurt you. I think I'm in the same fix as you are. My name's Potsie. What's yours?" The girl slowly raised her head. Their eyes locked and Potsie felt a swift pang in his gut. Those deep blue eyes told a story for all to see. It seemed that all her fears, all her pain, all her shattered hopes and dreams were written in those expressive eyes. Yet, there was a nobility, a strength at their core that held the promise to never quit. Her face was almost elf-like in appearance and held a child-like vulnerability in its structure. She had a beauty that was not limited to the exterior but instead was internal and radiated out to enhance her physical beauty in a way Potsie had never seen, except once. He mentally shook his head wanting to be rid of that thought.

"I promise I won't hurt you. Won't you tell me your name?" The girl shook her head. Her eyes narrowed for a second and her brow furrowed. Then looking directly into his large blue eyes, she put the fingers of her right hand against the middle of her throat and tapped gently, shaking her head simultaneously. Potsie had no clue and suddenly the light bulb came on.

"You won't tell me your name because you can't. You're scared, aren't you?"

"Yeah, I sure am." the girl nodded sadly.

"I'm sorry."

The girl looked him in the eyes and he could read in her eyes as clearly and said "It's okay, it's not your fault."

"Are you okay?" She shook her head, then using her right hand she pushed away from her to her right, pointed to herself then gestured to the floor. Potsie was amazed that he could understand and communicate with her.

"I guess you're right, Potsie!" Lips twitching ever so slightly up, she looked him in the eyes when she spoke.

"Man, there's got to be a better way for us to speak about this." The girl frowned, thinking deeply. Then she raised both of her hands which were still bound by the shackles.

"I guess you're right." the girl said as Potsie laughed softly.

Waving his hands slightly, he said "I don't know what the Candy Man's up to but he won't get away with it." The girl smiled for the first time.

"You're right. It was going to be hard if you could. This may be stupid to ask but you're with International Rescue, right?" Potsie nodded.

"That's where I learned to stand up for the rights of others. Helps with communication and lets us operatives talk to each other when we don't want people to know what we're saying. How long have you been here?"

"Sadly," she answered. "I'm not sure. I know it's been a few days but there's no knowledge of time here, at least not for the slaves and prisoners."

"Will you tell me your name?" Potsie asked as she nodded.

"Jennifer."

"Jennifer? That's a pretty name. I once had a…anyway. Do you know anyway out of this joint?"

"No. There's none that I know about. Don't think it wasn't for lack of trying. But all you get for your troubles is this." She turned around and let him see the full extent of the damage done to her back. When she turned back around, she noticed that Potsie looked a little green around the edges.

"Sorry. But I thought you'd need to know what you were dealing with. He's ruthless. He'll stop at nothing to get what he wants. When physical threats and violence do not work, he always has emotional and psychological tortures at his disposal." Potsie nodded.

"I've never personally met the Candy Man before but my d…commander and a buddy have. What he did to us…he's got no honor. That's why we must get out of here, both of us."

Jennifer could not raise her head as she felt salty tears well up in the corners of her eyes. Finally, when she knew she had her emotions under control, she raised her head. Potsie found himself staring into the largest darkest eyes he had ever seen. Jennifer raised her hands.

"Both of us."

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 8: Pain and Punishment

It had been ten days since Potsie had been brought to the Candy Man's lair, nine days since he had met Jennifer. On Tracy Island, the family lifelessly went about their lives. Al locked himself in his lab and frantically worked on a new idea. Marion worked out the menus and cooked for the large family. When this did not occupy her, she spent the time cross-stitching a pillow for Potsie if…when he came home. Spreading it out, she picked up silver thread and began outlining the body of his ship. Silent tears fell from her eyes as she wondered if he would ever see it.

Chachi and Joanie explored every inch of the Island until they would know where they were blindfolded. The young brunette had found it was better to keep Chachi busy so he wouldn’t think about his older brother too much. He was retreating from everyone and Joanie was going to put a stop to it even if it killed her.

The rest of the family was busy in the lounge. Howard, his sons minus Potsie and Chachi, Lori Beth, Tom and Marion were busy making plans for their biggest search and rescue mission: to find one of their own.

"Marion, are you sure that both of the men's accents were from the East Side of Milwaukee?"

"Yes, Mr Tracy. I'm sure. I spent most of my youth there." Howard nodded.

"Then I think we should concentrate our search in that area. Now," he said spreading out a map of the area. "This is the part of Milwaukee we're focusing our attention on. It's still a very large area and there's no way we can scan it from the air. That would tip off the Candy Man. There's no doubt that he'd kill Potsie rather then give us the opportunity to rescue him. I won't take that chance. We'll be splitting up into groups of twos and threes. Always watch your backs and keep on your guard. We don't need more of us to be captured." All nodded their understanding and agreement.

"Alright. Tom, Lori Beth, I need both of you to pretend to be holiday tourists. Lori Beth, I believe you told me you have contacts there?" The elegant, young heiress nodded her dark head and smiled. She could easily play the stupid rich kid, eager to see how the other half lived. But she was sharp as a tack and knew how to listen without seeming too. She was the perfect spy.

"Fonzie, you and Richard are to set up a look out post on the highest mountain in the area," he explained, pointing to the lone mountain in region. "Get permission, claiming to be doing scientific observations up there." Fonzie had a college degree in Astronomy and had already written a well-received book on space. It would be easy for him to convince the right people to let him set up his equipment. If they dropped the name Tracy enough, they would get permission. What would seem as an innocent observatory would in actuality be an amazing tracking station. Fonzie and Richard will listen to all radio frequencies and, with a new invention of Al, all phone conversations, too. Howard would never let anything that sensitive be used by anyone but his sons whom he trusted. Fonzie and Richie would also be coordinating the search and, hopefully, the rescue.

"Ralph, you, Marion and I will be backpacking up and down the district, looking for any suspicious activity." Ralph nodded. He knew it was fruitless to try to talk his father out of going on the rescue. Howard was determined to go, and besides, it would probably be worse for his health to remain home, worrying about everyone else. Marion had to go with them as she was one of the only ones who knew the language.

Howard nodded one last time and let the map roll on itself. As everyone was about to leave, he pulled Fonzie aside.

"Make sure you continue to monitor communications with Fonziebird 5. If Potsie should escape, he'll attempt to contact us that way." Fonzie agreed and hurried off to pack. Operation "Old" Retrieval, named as such thanks to Richie, had begun.

The Candy Man left Potsie alone for a couple days letting him heal and worry about what was to come. During this time, Potsie saw no one but the slaves who fed him and occasionally exercised him. On the third day, a door off to the side was thrown open. Potsie strained until he could see who it was.

Walking smugly in all his princely glory, the Candy Man moved over to the throne sitting on a slight dais. Sitting down in it, he motioned for a slave to leave. He then turned and regarded Potsie.

"I hope you enjoyed meeting my slave Jennifer. She's been with me for quite sometime and is showing promise." Potsie saw red as this evil man discussed his destruction of Jennifer as a human being with humor.

"She's not your slave!" Chuckling softly, the Candy Man turned and regarded Jennifer herself as she was pushed into the throne room. Potsie also saw her and his heart went out to her.

She had a new costume on today and anyone could see by the tightening of her jawline, she was none too pleased. It consisted of a dark tannish colored silk bikini with long silky streamers hanging from the waist and middle of the arms. Her dark hair was intricately braided and draped around her head. This time, her hands were free but a metal chocker was fastened around her throat and a chain was attached to it. The male slave handed the chain to his master and left. Jennifer stood as still as a statue and seemed to see nothing. She was not facing Potsie yet he saw her throw imperceptible glances in his direction. This silent tense time went on for several minutes.

Suddenly, the Candy Man jerked the chain hard sending Jennifer flying straight at him. She landed in a heap at his feet and was unable to rise as she tried to gasp for air.

Potsie strained against the chains that held him and yelled "Let her go! Leave her alone!" Before he could shout anything else, movement from Jennifer caused him to pause. Secretly, she whispered just one word to Potsie as soon as the Candy Man glared at him again.

"No."

The Candy Man slithered over to Potsie until their faces were inches from each other.

"What did you say?" Potsie couldn't keep the loathing inside anymore. He could see Jennifer slowly getting to her feet, eyes blinking furiously, trying to keep tears from spilling over. He kicked the Candy Man between the legs. Instead of exploding as Potsie had thought and hoped, he clapped his hands. Three slaves came to their boss's side. One quickly handed him a gun and he took his time holding it to Potsie's head. Then he gestured to the two goons standing by, one holding a long whip. Quickly dropping it, he hurried with his fellow slave to Jennifer and grabbed her. Potsie was horrified.

"Your quarrel's with me! Don't involve the girl!" The Candy Man coolly examined him.

"I want you to see what'll happen if you ever do that again. Besides," he said as he began walking towards his desk chair. "This is more painful for you then if I had them whip you."

Much to Potsie's surprise, Jennifer did not struggle. Instead, she stood still as they removed the collar and then forced her towards the middle of the room. Potsie had not noticed it before but there was a large circle there with wrist and ankle cuffs placed in strategic places. Jennifer was forced to lie down on her stomach while her hands and feet were bound. Potsie didn't know if it was on purpose or by accident but she was turned so they were looking eye to eye. Jennifer's eyes were wide with fright but she was trying desperately to remain calm.

There was a vast expanse of silence. Then, the Candy Man raised his hand. Jennifer could see it reflected in Potsie's emotion-filled eyes. She saw it fall and prepared herself for what was to come. Still, she flinched terribly when the leather cut into her skin. Though no sound escaped her lips, Potsie only had to peer into her brown eyes to read the pain, both physical and mental, she was experiencing. Potsie heard repeatedly the crack of the whip but he did not register the knowledge. His whole being was focused on the eyes that seemed to scream for the brunette herself. Jennifer's eyes were fastened on Potsie's face. She would not give into the pain; she would not give into the pain. Potsie's heart broke as he saw one lone tear creep down her cheek. And the sounds continued.

CRACK.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 9: Operation "Old" Retrieval

Fonziebird 2 landed on the tarmac of the Italian airport in the middle of the night. The airport police escorted the huge airplane into an oversized hanger. They then left so that International Rescue could lock down on their own. No one was to know that a Fonziebird had landed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin because the Tracys were sure the Candy Man had spies working for him. IR had once saved the head of the airport's life and when Howard called him on the videophone, sound only selected, he had been very willing to help them. Only handpicked men had been there to assist with the landing. Ralph had a hurried conference with the airport's head and then ran over to where Howard was giving last minute instructions to the search and rescue teams.

He was in full commander mode now. He had to be because he knew that if he allowed himself to be the worried father, it would completely undo him. He thought back to the incident roughly a year ago with the Candy Man. He remembered looking into each of his son's faces when they realized Fonziebird 5 would be their tomb, seeing their strength and willingness to lay down their lives for what they believed. He remembered he worried for Chachi through the whole time, yet it had been unfounded. His youngest had proven himself beyond all expectations and Howard had been proud of him and was still proud of him. Now, Potsie was in deadly danger, if he was not already…NO! He would not think like that. They were a rescue organization; they would do what they did best: rescue.

"Lori Beth, you and Tom stay in Milwaukee. See what you can find out from your contacts here, also just find out all you can about the criminal organizations around here." The young brunette nodded and gestured Tom to get the shockingly pink car ready. Before she left, she looked at each of the Tracy brothers, Marion and finally, Howard. These brave people, who almost risked their lives daily so that others might live, did not deserve to be put through this hell. Her eyes lingered for a moment longer on Howard. He still had not noticed that her attitude towards him was not strictly friendship, but then as she had told him, girls were generally the first to figure things of that nature out. So, until he did, she would stand by his side and support him in any capacity she could.

"He'll be safe, Mr Tracy. We'll find him. Me and Tom'll be praying." Howard nodded, then grabbed the offered aristocratic hand. Shaking hands, she hurried over to her car and drove off. Fonzie and Richie moved to stand by their father.

"Boys, the airport head has given us full use of one of their planes. Take the equipment up to the top of the Pfhister Tower. Set up and begin scanning all frequencies. Keep the plane, we may need it." Fonzie and Richie nodded. Shaking everyone's hands, the two men walked steadily to the waiting aircraft. With a last glance at his departing sons, Howard turned to the remaining family members. Everyone stood around severe and silent. Shouldering his survival pack, Howard started to walk out of the hangar. Turning to his remaining son and faithful friend, he looked them hard in the eyes.

"Let's go get Potsie back."

Lori Beth sat in what was the equivalent of Arnold's Drive-In. Dressed in the tourist rendition of a French outfit, she sipped a soda. While most people thought of secret agents roles as one rollicking adventure, the truth was that most of her time was spent in waiting-in breathless anticipation of news. Staring at her cup, she wondered if it really was watered down. Shaking the melodramatic thought from her head, she concentrated on the door for a brief second. She was waiting for her informant, Tomasa Panessa, who was to have met her at 2:00. It was now 2:25 and Lori Beth was beginning to get worried. He had never been late for a meeting before. Something was wrong. When you had been in the field as long as she had, you acquired a sense for danger or you died very quickly. Lori Beth had an inimitable danger sense. She could tell a mile away if something was wrong. And right now, as some would say, her spider sense was tingling.

Looking around surreptitiously, she gave a quick, unobtrusive shake of the head to the obviously American man sitting at the table near the window. He quickly got up, paid his bill and left. Lori Beth gave one last look around and then paid her own bill. Walking jauntily out, she was quickly helped into a shockingly pink car and was whisked off to her hotel. Tom had barely closed their door when Lori Beth suddenly grabbed a charm on her bracelet and turned around quickly. The small man, who had been standing in the dark corner, quickly raised his hands above his head. Lori Beth sighed and lowered her arm, letting go of the small revolver charm. This, thanks to Al, was a working replica of a revolver which was very handy in tight places. However, they were safe for the moment. She inclined her head gracefully to the stranger.

"Mr Panessa, it's great to see you again. How've you been, Sir?" Mr Panessa bowed sincerely to this wonderful young woman. She gave so willingly to others that he could not live with himself in his selfish cowardice.

"Laura, please forgive me." As he said this, he fell to his knees and wept bitterly. Lori Beth was just slightly disconcerted. She was at a loss as to how to deal with a grown man sobbing at her feet. Her training held as her quick mind searched for a way to acknowledge the man’s words without dealing a blow to his pride.

"What are you talking about? What've you done?" She winced inwardly but allowed not a microscopic bit of it to show. Not her best line but she was slightly off kilter as it was.

"I did what you said. I listened in to conversations, talked to friends and gathered information for you. But I was overheard. A large man came to my house today and threatened my wife and children. I swore to him I won't come to you but you've always been kind to them and me. I've got a debt, one I won't be able to repay but I'll try." Lori Beth wasted no time. So the Candy Man was threatening people now; well, he was messing with the wrong woman. She may not have shown her best the last time she faced him but she had had quite enough of losing. He would not be able to carry out his threat; she would not let him.

"Tom, the car please. Mr Panessa, I believe you. We're dealing with a ruthless man who'll stop at nothing to stop my…employer. We're gonna take you to your family. I'm sending all of you to my place. You'll be under my protection." Panessa bowed once again. This young lady was an angel of mercy; his family would be safe. As he watched her eyes turn steely at a private thought, he almost felt sorry for the Candy Man. This woman was sweet and a perfect lady but she was dangerous.

Fonzie and Richie hurried to set up the command center. The top of the Pfhister Tower was not extremely cold, just annoyingly so. Hurrying as quickly as they could in order to keep their bodies warm, they unpacked the plane and began to set up. As soon as the heated tents were set up, Fonzie sat at a bigger version of Mobile Control in the biggest one. Flicking the switch that powered up the consul, he glanced out of the tent to his second youngest brother. Richie was just finishing the placement of the last antenna on the snow covered ground. Fonzie sighed. This…situation was hard on all of them. Potsie was the second oldest. He had been there for all of them. He knew just what to say and do. He knew how each of them dealt with things and what each one couldn't deal with. He would listen to everyone's problems but never open up about his own so much like his father. He was closest to Ralph and Fonzie but Fonzie was usually in the space station. He amended that thought; he was always in the space station. Ralph was often the one who held Potsie together when the breaking point was reached. And Potsie did the same to Ralph. They were as close as brothers could possibly be, as thick as thieves. It had been true since Ralph was born and on through their teen and now adult years. Potsie loved, admired and protected Ralph while Ralph worshiped, loved and protected Potsie. Fonzie closed his eyes in silent prayer as his thoughts turned to his younger brother. As rough a time as he was going through, Fonzie knew that Ralph was right now going through his personal hell.

Ralph rolled over in his sleeping bag for the hundred thousandth time. He had been trying to sleep for the past five hours but so far it had been extremely elusive. He, his father and Marion were heading for the plantation Marion's father had owned. From what Marion had told them, it was a large, beautiful place; or it had been when she had left. It was approximately three miles from the infamous mine where the man now know as the Candy Man had run a slave operation. Howard had rescued Marion there and ever since then Marion had been a member of the family. It was also where the Candy Man had almost died and where his undying hatred of International Rescue had been born. The mine and the house still belonged to Marion’s older brother which the Tracy's knew as the Candy Man.

It was going to be a long, hard journey, taking many days. Howard had thought about using a vehicle, but had rejected the idea. He hoped that by hiking across country they would avoid detection by the Candy Man's minions. Ralph's greatest fear was that they would be too late. If anything happened to Potsie… Mentally shaking himself, he rolled over once again and tried to sleep.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 10: They Would Pay Dearly

Potsie shifted and smothered a yelp of pain. Breathing was becoming increasingly difficult as his arms were held at such an unnatural angle. Flexing his stiff and sore arm muscles, his breath came out in a hiss of pain. Sometimes he wondered whether the physical torture was worse then the mental and emotional tortures the Candy Man was constantly putting him through. Other times, he knew the answer.

He looked over at the pitiful figure lying on the harsh stone floor. Jennifer was still asleep. Potsie could see her breath softly and how peaceful her face was. Her face was only peaceful when she was asleep. When she was awake, her face was lined by either the horrors she had seen or the pain she had suffered. Potsie could not tell which of these caused the distortion. She had been whipped several times since Potsie had been brought here and he felt awful. The Candy Man was using her to break him and what made Potsie feel so bad was it was working. He had all but given up on either of them getting out of this dump. He only hoped he would die before he was broken. He did not want to speculate what would happen if the Candy Man used a mentally broken Potsie against his family.

The next day, the Candy Man held his first party since Potsie’s capture. All of his higher acquaintances as well as those operatives that were enjoying his unusually high favor because of Potsie’s capture were there. All experienced great pleasure at hurling insults at the unfortunate young man. A jazz band entertained the vast number of guests while slaves wandered around carrying refreshments. Jennifer had told Potsie not to be surprised at anything. The Candy Man was a businessman and he had to keep his employees happy. He also had to show his acquaintances how wealthy he was.

The Candy Man walked in and everyone bowed to him except for his business acquaintances. He was holding a beautiful chain, if one can be called that which was attached to a collar hooked around Jennifer's neck. Potsie knew she had told him to not be surprised but her costume was…well shocking. The bikini parts were all red with gold embroidery. From her waist hung long strings of beads that enhanced every movement made by the small, emaciated form and streamers of different colored silk hung from her forearms and collar and her hair which hung down to the small of her back was braided with streamers likewise. It was like she was some glorified pet. Potsie couldn't bear the way all of the men were leering at her. If only he could get free, he would show all of them what he thought of them. Jennifer must have seen on his face what he was thinking because she looked him right in the eye and carefully shook her head.

As soon as the Candy Man sat on his throne with Jennifer forced to sit on the floor beside him, the band began to play a lively Charleston song. Executing complicated twists and turns, the dancing guests moved their bodies in ways Potsie had seen his father could when charleston dancing. This went on for some time until the band stopped playing for the Candy Man. Bowing low, they waited for him to pass judgment. He stood and grabbing a bag a slave handed him, dropped it in front of the leader, gold spilling out of the open mouth of the bag. Kowtowing still lower, the band moved off.

A gong was sounded and simultaneously, the band played again. The dancing group began moving to the music. Potsie turned bright red at what was going on in front of him. This was degrading not only to him, though he had always been taught that a man should be better than to grab a woman around the waist but to Jennifer as well. By the stony visage she had, he knew she was as disgusted as he was. The Candy Man must have noticed his discomfort because as he glanced at Potsie, an evil expression lit up his face. Suddenly standing up, he raised his hands for silence.

"It seems to me that something's missing from this little party we're having. Why, it must be that Jennifer has yet to entertain us. We must all beg that she would deign to show us her…talents." There was much chuckling among the men gathered round him. Potsie turned red at the insinuations the Candy Man was making. Jennifer, with a look of fear and loathing etched on her face, was staring at nothing. With a flick of the Candy Man's wrist, Jennifer was dragged in front of him.

"Let's see if you have more strength then last year." Everyone was watching eagerly, almost as a hunter watches its prey. Jennifer fought harder then Potsie had ever seen her fight. A third slave came over and grabbed her wayward head. Slowly, with great difficulty, he forced her to face the Candy Man. He grabbed her face with one of his large, calloused hands and moved in until their faces were inches apart. Potsie could see the Candy Man's face and he saw his eyes become red and his pupils become cat-eye slits. Struggling desperately against his chains, Potsie started to yell at Jennifer to not open her eyes. Before he could get a sound out though, he found himself quickly subdued and hands roughly covered his mouth. Jennifer struggled and strained for some time before finally falling limply against the restraining arms of her captors. The Candy Man stepped even closer and whispered in her ear for sometime. Potsie could not move, could not think, could hardly breathe-even aside from the fact that multiple hands were covering most of his face. The Candy Man had hypnotized her and Potsie knew from what his family had told him-what Al had told him of his encounter-that he could make you do anything he wanted. Jennifer had told him before that she had never been able to free herself while under his control. What would happen now?

Suddenly, Jennifer stood straight up, head lifted high. The brief surge of hope that filled Potsie's heart was quickly dashed when Jennifer unhooked the chain attached to her collar and then wrapped her arm suggestively around the man she hated most in the world. Despair pushed out all the hope that had just filled Potsie's body and left a vacuum. Jennifer was under the Candy Man’s complete control.

"Jennifer, all of my guests are bored. What do you say to an exhibition of your skills?" Potsie's eyes narrowed. What skills? Jennifer nodded and moved to the center of the room. Facing the wall where Potsie hung, restrained by both metal and muscle, she motioned him to be unchained. The men holding him looked to their boss for guidance but he only nodded and seated himself back on his desk chair.

Potsie tried to prepare himself as the men loosened the metal cuffs from his battered wrists. But it was to no avail. His knees buckled as his boots encountered the stone floor and he landed in a heap. He rose as quickly as his shaky legs allowed, planting them so he would not fall over again. As soon as he was up, Jennifer started for him but was stalled by the voice of the Candy Man.

"Not yet, my dear. He won't be much of an opponent now. Give him time, he needs for his legs to get use to supporting him." Jennifer stayed where she was, her eyes focused on Potsie as if she were evaluating him, for what he could not say. He searched her eyes trying to find his friend in them but to no avail. The Candy Man had her under his complete control and she could do nothing to break free.

As soon as his legs stopped shaking, the Candy Man nodded to him and offered one bit of advice. "You better defend yourself, Warren." Potsie knew what he meant but he was afraid in a way he could not explain. He knew that this was technically not Jennifer, at least not in her actions but he could not bring himself to hurt her. What was he going to do?

Before he could think any further, Jennifer struck. Drawing her leg back, she let go and high-kicked him in the head. Potsie went back and down, coming to a rest just short of the stone wall. He did not even get a chance to pick himself up before she was on him. Quickly, she wrapped her thin, scarred arm around his neck and applied pressure. Potsie could feel his lungs straining for the oxygen being deprived them. As his vision blurred and black spots dotted the crowd in front of him, he threw himself forward, pitching Jennifer over his head. Totally unprepared for his action, the young woman hit the ground in a sprawl.

Potsie eased himself off the hard floor and stood, his lungs sucking in all the oxygen they could. He watched as Jennifer leaped to her feet. She stared at him, gauging him as an opponent, not recognizing him as a friend. Then suddenly, she came straight at him.

They traded blows for several minutes; some finding their mark but most were blocked as the two knowledgeable fighters traveled up and down the room. Soon, however, Potsie's abused and malnourished body began to slow down. The seasoned combatant she was, Jennifer took full advantage of this, pressing him harder and harder. Suddenly, there came a blow he could not block in time. Jennifer's arm slid between his defenses and hit him squarely in the throat.

Potsie felt his larynx pushed roughly back by the force of the blow. Coughing and chocking, he collapsed to the stone floor. He could not get a breath. He knew that if he did not calm down, he would hyperventilate and then be in serious trouble, but he could not seem to stop.

The Candy Man stared down at the Tracy son watching him struggle for a single breath. When Jennifer moved in to finish the kill, his single word command halted her in her tracks. His guests had greatly enjoyed the exhibition, never realizing the emotional trauma going on around them. All they could see was the violence.

Jennifer stood there staring at nothing. However, there was an inner battle being waged. Her conscious self was fighting a desperate battle against the Candy Man's control. At his next voice command, she felt her body move towards Potsie, despite her fight to stay where she was. He then told her mind to attack the defenseless man in front of her.

Potsie was still trying frantically to catch his breath when he felt the foot connect with his rib cage. A gasp escaped his lips as he felt the bone give way under the force of the strike. For several minutes, blows rained down on the hapless man and soon his skin was covered with a mixture of sweat and blood. During all this, a blow hit his broken ribs. The force of the blow knocked all the breath from his body and he began coughing uncontrollably. Soon his coughing brought up blood from his pierced lungs.

When Jennifer saw Potsie coughing up blood, something rose up within her. She fought as she never had before, battling with everything in her to break the hold the Candy Man had over her. Suddenly, the control over her snapped in two. Falling to her knees, she immediately began offering him what medical attention she could.

Potsie, while fighting for every breath, felt a rush of pride for Jennifer. He was worried about her and for himself; he knew he was in a bad way. Nevertheless, at the same time, he could not deny the pride he felt at what she had done. She had finally resisted the Candy Man's mind control over her. She had fought him, truly, for the first time.

The Candy Man was furious. She had broken his control. She had fought him, Jennifer, who had only a week ago had been inches from the breaking point. Not only had she resisted, but she had beaten him in front of his guests. Both she and the Tracy boy would pay. They would pay dearly.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 11: Thoughts and Throes

Ralph hacked at another part of the undergrowth that was all around them and then paused to wipe his brow. Marion was studying the area around them and comparing it to the map. She was afraid that the many years she had spent away from here would cause her to lead the Tracy men astray. Howard was radioing Fonzie at Central Base. They had been traveling for three days and according to the map, they should be nearing the district next to their target zone. Ralph hoped they would be able to move quicker. Every moment Potsie was a prisoner of the Candy Man was a thousand times too much. Ralph was worried. In what shape would they find Potsie?

Potsie signed off and looked off in the distance, not that there was anything to see. Distance in this forest was about three to five feet. He just could not bear to look at Marion who was working her hardest to help the Tracys or Ralph who's normally freckled face was turning an unhealthy gray color and his bright eyes were dull with constant worry. Howard knew his eyes must look much the same. It had been three days since they had began their search and close to twenty days total that Potsie had been missing. The saddest thing for Howard was that he had come to depend on his second eldest's cool headedness and strength to help him through the difficult times that came with their job. With Potsie gone, the natural worry was compounded with the fact that he had no where to turn to for support. He knew that if he asked, Ralph would try to help him but Howard could not bring himself to do that. He knew Ralph had enough to think about.

“Okay, Dad. Keep in touch.” Fonzie signed off and let his head fall into his hands. Three days, three days and they had no word about Potsie. Fonzie wouldn’t have mentioned it to any of his family members but he had almost lost all hope. The Candy Man was a mastermind. He wouldn’t have an easy to find lair. His base of operations would be cleverly hidden; after all, he had not been found by most of the earth’s governments, how could International Rescue think they had a chance? A slight crunch behind him alerted him to the fact that someone was present behind him. Before he could turn around, arms encircled his shoulders. Richie.

Richie gave his oldest brother another squeeze. Fonzie was the coolest of the Tracy brothers and hid the most. All of the brothers hid their emotions but each of them had another to go to when it all became too much. Potsie went to Ralph and Ralph went to see Potsie. Richie and Chachi did the same. However, with Fonzie in the space station more then at home, he didn’t really have an emotional outlet. Except Scott. Gordon knew, as all the family knew, that the oldest and middle sons had many conversations that had lasted until the wee hours of the morning. Gordon knew that those talks were often the only thing that kept John sane. If that was taken away… Gordon hugged his brother again. They wouldn’t fail. They couldn’t.

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Lori Beth sighed. It had taken three days, but finally Tomaso Panessa’s family had been safely transferred to Lori Beth's neighborhood. Edmund Scott, an old family friend who knew of Lori Beth’s secret agent status, had helped and was taking the Panessas under his personal protection. He did not know, however, that Lori Beth was an agent not for Wisconsin but rather for International Rescue. He would have done it regardless but Lori Beth had always been hesitant about telling him. It was better if the fewest possible people knew she was connected with International Rescue.

Tomaso was sitting in the suite of rooms that were presently serving as her base. Lori Beth hung up the phone and turned to the man.

“Your family's now safely in the custody of Mr Scott. He's completely trustworthy; your family couldn't be safer.” The man bowed to his benefactress.

“Thank you, Laura. I can't express my deep and lasting gratitude to you for what you've done. And now I'll tell you what I've found out.” Lori Beth leaned forward. This was it. This was what IR had been looking for. She knew it. She just knew it.

However, she was never to know the precious information Tomaso carried. A small smack and the sound of breaking glass were followed by a grunt from Tomaso. Tom moved quickly, pushed his beloved employer to the floor and shielded her with his own body. The gunfire went on for some time, then it ceased. Tom carefully rolled off the young heiress then helped her rise. While the police pounded down the halls, Lori Beth could only walk slowly over and kneel before the dead man. One tear escaped the harden edges of her eyes. Then her gaze grew as cold as steel. The Candy Man would pay. If it was the last thing she did, he would pay.

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Potsie began to notice his slow climb to consciousness when the pain started to become more pronounced. As his wakefulness continued, he changed the word pain to agony. Every part of his body felt either like it was on fire or that a knife had been twisted in it a couple of times. What had happened to him to cause him this much pain? As his mind began to assert itself, pictures flashed through his mind. The Candy Man. Jennifer attacking…attacking him?! Jennifer using martial arts techniques against him. Where had she learned that? She had to have a black belt in at least one martial arts probably more to beat him like that. After all, he was a black belt in three separate martial arts teachings though he had to admit that several weeks of hanging by his arms on that wall had impaired his abilities more then he wanted to believe.
His thoughts flashed forward to the nightmare after the party. The whip. Jennifer’s pain racked face begging him to understand. Then he remembered. Pain. Lots of pain; both in his mind and from his body. And the Candy Man’s words.

“I'll break you. You'll be mine. Sooner or later, you'll be. But first, you'll have to watch Jennifer break. Then I'll have you.” Potsie winced as his mind replayed the images the Candy Man had planted in it with those words: Tracy Island, obscured by vast black clouds of smoke; Chachi and his father lying dead in Fonziebird 2’s silo; Fonziebird 1 being used to bomb a hospital and Jennifer, crawling towards him, right hand pressed against a gaping wound at her side.

Although he knew the Candy Man had shown him the images to shock and fluster him, Potsie could not help but give in to the feelings of helplessness and fear. They had seemed so real, as if he were watching them being played out with his own eyes. This was an enemy he did not know how to fight.

Potsie shifted to what he hoped would be a more comfortable position, instead the agony escalated beyond his ability to bear it. Potsie let out a scream that echoed through the chamber. As he lay panting, trying to manage his anguish, a noise made him turn his head, despite the pain it caused. There was Jennifer lying near him, silent tears coursing down the face drawn in pain. She was moving slightly, shaking at times, then biting her lips in a futile attempt to hold back a scream, a scream that wouldn’t be heard anyway. He called out her name softly but there was no answer. After repeating himself several times, he slowly and carefully pulled himself over to the pitiful sight. Gently pushing her hair out of face, he whispered her name again but still there was no answer.

Potsie realized then that she was asleep; how she could sleep while all the pain she must be feeling coursing through her body, Potsie would never know. He quickly felt her forehead. She was burning up but she was also shivering. Long hours of training kicked in, training to save lives; slowly, painfully, he moved closer to her. Carefully positioning her so that her open and bleeding back would rest comfortable against his semi clean shirt, he wrapped his arms around her. She needed to be kept warm.

And her clothes aren't for that purpose, he thought looking at her torn and bloodied slave outfit that showed more skin than it covered.

Light. Bright, unfeeling light. Jennifer’s eyes closed quickly against the blinding glare. And there was the pain. The pain flared up and she twisted slightly. It was then she noticed that arms were wrapped protectively around her. Fearfully, she slitted her eyes open enough to see who held her down. The off white cloth with blue piping told her who it was. She was safe; Potsie wouldn’t harm her. Careful not to wake Potsie, as he must have been in agony as well, she shifted to a less painful position.

Her mind began to pick up it’s scattered pieces, though she wished it would not. She did not wish to remember. Thoughts, feelings, and images all began to flow around her while she tried to comprehend everything, anything. Jennifer’s memories were rewinding faster then she could take. The party, the terrible attack on Potsie, the beating; all were spinning faster and faster in her mind until it couldn’t take anymore. Her body convulsed as her stomach gave up all it held. The convulsion caused a fresh wave of nauseating agony to wash over her, bring with it another stomach-wrenching heave. This cycle continued for sometime. Faintly, Jennifer could feel strong hands holding her, comforting her. At last, the attacks slackened, then stopped. Jennifer was left panting and worn out.

Potsie was very worried. Jennifer was in a great deal of pain and was very weak. The Candy Man never gave them a lot to eat and now she had lost what little she had. Gently, he picked her up and held her in his arms. Though she was probably as old as he was, she was so small and thin and fit comfortably in his arms. She stirred slightly then her tired head fell against his shoulder; she was asleep.

That was how the Candy Man’s chief slave found them two hours later: Potsie leaning against the wall, holding protectively the small, emaciated form. It had been many years since Julio had been free and he had seen many terrible things in those years. Few things touched his wounded and hardened heart. Yet, he could not stop a single tear from escaping from his eye. The young, silent girl was dying, dying slowly inside. Soon his boss would break her and when he did, the young man would soon follow. One of the first lessons a slave learned was that the Candy Man, given enough time, will always win. There is no escape. There is no escape.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 12: Freedom and Fears

Jennifer and Potsie were dragged unceremoniously into the Hood’s presence. Jennifer hung limply from the hands that gripped her forearms. Her head lolled wearily side to side. However, Potsie was alert though he pretended to be as helpless as Jennifer. Normally, this would have fooled the Candy Man about the time Jennifer sang the national anthem but today, it seemed to Potsie that the Candy Man was preoccupied and had brought them out merely as a formality. Indeed, after a few insults that fell well short of their mark, he merely had Jennifer and Potsie chained up to the wall. Potsie was not so ho-hum about it though; their injuries made it agony to have their arms hung at odd angles. The Candy Man, barely glancing at them, had hurried conferences with different slaves, then rose from his throne. He quickly ordered Jennifer to return to her cell while Potsie was to remain in the audience chamber. Before leaving the chamber, the Candy Man cast one last malicious look at Potsie.

“Enjoy this time, Warren. These could be your last few hours.”

Potsie expected the Candy Man to return and finish him but hours past and there was no sign of his captor. Slaves entered the room and extinguished the candles. Night had fallen and still, the evil man had not arrived. Potsie was concerned, not for the Candy Man, which was laughable but rather for Jennifer and himself. The Candy Man had not left his lair since Potsie had been brought here. What had caused him to leave? Would this bode well or ill for them? Potsie did not know but if everything stayed normal, Jennifer would be brought to see him tomorrow. With that thought, he gave in to the weariness that seemed to permeate his body. He would not worry about it anymore, at least not until tomorrow.

The next morning brought with the rising of the sun, Jennifer went to the throne room. The Candy Man was still mysteriously absent. Jennifer was thoughtful.

He's never done this before. Oh, he goes off any number of times, often for days at a time. It’s just…well, he's never let anyone off that easy like yesterday. Something's wrong; I can feel it. The guys who brought me spoke in awe; it sounded to me that they thought something had caused their boss to be uneasy. she thought, frowning at the rough, stone floor. Potsie waited for several minutes, thinking she had soemthing to say. He looked at her outfit. For some reason, it was more…conservative then normal. It was made of silk of the softest sea green he had ever seen. This one had an actual skirt that, though it was revealing, covered far more than normal. Today, she even had a see-through cape that had armholes. Potsie had to admit, she carried it off with beauty and class. Finally, when the silence had been unbroken for some time, he ventured to voice the thought that had been foremost in his thoughts.

“Do you think now would be a good time to esc…” Jennifer flew across the room and clamped her hand firmly over his mouth. Breathing heavily as she had not recovered from the Candy Man’s tortures by any means, her face betrayed the fear she felt. Shaking her head, she shot quick, searching glances around the room. Then she turned her worried eyes, which seemed to Potsie to be made of ever changing liquid. Seeing he was not about to speak, she removed her hand.

"Don’t say that word, the walls have ears." Jennifer said catching Potsie’s eyes and held them. "You're right, though. If we're gonna escape, then we better do it now."

“Got a plan?” Potsie asked. Jennifer nodded then paused.

"I know what to do once we leave this place. I’m just not sure how to get out of here." she said glancing around the room with an expression of utter defeat on her sweet, weary lined face. Then a change came over her. If Potsie had not been watching her carefully, he would have almost missed it. Her shoulders straightened and her face appeared as if a sixty-year-old woman had shed fifty years. Her almost child-like delight caused Potsie, unknowingly, to crack a small grin.

“What?” She shook her head. Running over to the side of the room, she stood studying the handrail that separated the dais from the rest of the room. Grasping a section of it in her hands, she gave them a hard, jarring yank. Nothing happened. Jennifer cursed internally. She was weak. A year ago, she could have done this. No, she would not think like that. She had to get Potsie out of here. This strange disappearance of the Candy Man worried her more then she would admit. She had overheard one of the guards telling a slave that the Tracys were in the area, presumably searching for their missing brother and comrade in arms. The Candy Man would sooner kill Potsie than give the Tracys even a slim chance of rescuing him. It was all up to her. And she would get him out, even if it killed her.

Focusing every last bit of strength, she grabbed the pole again and gave it a hard wrench. With the sound of straining metal, the pole ripped from its anchoring. Potsie stood chained to the wall, his mouth hanging open in utter astonishment. He was not entirely sure he could have accomplished that feat now and he had only been here for around three weeks. Jennifer hid great strength in her small, unassuming stature.

She quickly walked over to him and slid the slim pole between Potsie’s wrist and the manacle. With one hand, she signed what she was planning to do.

"I've to set you free and we don’t need the chains to get in our way. So, it's got to be the cuff. I’ll try hard not to break your wrist." Jennifer proclaimed. Potsie gave her a weak smile and a nod. He was ready. Jennifer started to position the pole exactly then paused.

"Undo the scarf in my hair. I think it might cushion the blow." Potsie did so and tried to help Jennifer wrap it around his wrist. They were ready. Jennifer gave him a quick glance, then positioned the pole. She gave it a quick jerk towards her and the cuff came apart. They quickly repeated this on the other cuff and soon, Potsie was free. However, they were still locked in the throne room. Jennifer’s brow furrowed as she tried to come up with a solution. Potsie was staring hard at the floor thinking while rubbing the feeling back into his numb hands and wrists. Suddenly, Jennifer grabbed him by his right arm and dragged him back over to the wall. She quickly grabbed his arm and wrapped the broken manacles around his wrists. When he started to ask what she was doing, she placed a finger on his lips. Finishing, she quickly outlined her plan.

"I’ll hide behind the door, while you call the guard inside the room. Tell him I fainted over there." She pointed to the floor beside the dais, well hidden from the door’s viewpoint.

"When he rushes in, I'll slip up behind him and knock him out, okay?" Potsie nodded. He watched Jennifer run lightly across the room and lean against the wall where the door would hide her from sight. Potsie took a deep breath then began shouting.

“Help! Someone, help! Help me! Help!” The lock snapped open and the door thudded against the wall. Potsie winced. He hoped that had not hurt Jennifer as much as it sounded like it did. The guard rushed in and began frantically scanning the room. Potsie continued his shouting.

“Oh, help! Please! She just collapsed! I don’t know what happened! Oh, is she okay? What can I do?” He started taking rapid, shallow breaths, giving the appearance that he was hyperventilating. The guard strode over to him and slapped him hard across the face.

“Where is she?” he screamed in Potsie’s face.

“Over there, behind the dais. You've gotta help her!” The guard glanced over, then began to walk over there, rifle held ready. Potsie let himself glance over to the doorway. Jennifer was half way to the guard, her shoes not giving off a sound as she moved lithely over to the guard. She moved right up behind him, then attacked. Within a second, the guard found a powerful arm squeezing against his throat while a small but strong hand was clamped over his mouth. Jennifer continued to cut off his air until he slumped over, unconscious. She looked over at Potsie, who had run over and knelt next to her. Quickly, she sighed, letting the limp body slump to the floor.

"Get my scarf. We need to tie him up." Potsie ran over, grabbed it and then hurried back. Jennifer showed him where and how they were going to bind the guard and they began. Soon, his arms and legs were tied up with a length wrapped around his neck. If he struggled too much, he would chock himself. Potsie tore off part of his already ripped sleeve to use as a gag. He felt bad, he did not like tying the man up where there was a potential for him to kill himself struggling. "My family's dedicated their lives to saving people, not killing them for Pete’s sake." When he told Jennifer this, she nodded.

"I know. I hate it, too. But I don’t want him getting free too soon and raising an alarm. Besides, he's got to be smart enough to stop struggling when he realizes he's choking himself." Jennifer said. Placing her hand on his shoulder, she grinned at him and Potsie allowed himself a brief chuckle. They weren’t safe, not by a long shot but he could feel freedom and that was something he hadn’t felt in a long time.

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For the first time since their meeting on Tracy Island, the entire group of people working on Operation “Old” Retrieval was meeting together. Fonzie and Richie were using their multitude of equipment to allow everyone to contact each other with their watches and videophones. Lori Beth had told her story again and everyone was evaluating the pros and cons concerning the continuation of the rescue operation. Ralph was the first to speak up.

“Well, personally, I don’t see that we've got a choice. We’re talking about Potsie’s life here. I'd take a thousand greater chances if it would bring us closer to finding him.” Ralph’s voice had risen but he cut it off suddenly. He looked down at the jungle floor, feeling embarrassed at how much he had let escape. The others traded expressive looks among themselves. Everyone knew that Potsie’s disappearance was hardest on Ralph; they were the closest of the brothers. He had just never put his feelings into words at least not in front of the entire group at once. Howard cleared his voice, trying to take the attention off his middle son.

“Why don’t we take ten and think about this decision more. It's…a hard decision. We should take more time with this.” Everyone signed off for a bit and waited. Howard went over and knelt beside his son.

“We'll find him, Ralph. We'll find him….Now, would you rather not be part of the briefing or do you want to be there?” Ralph took a couple deep breaths trying to force his emotions down to a manageable level. Then, he raised his head.

“Oh, I’ll be a part of it. I’ll be there.” The two of them were jarred apart when their watches started beeping. Howard immediately asked what was wrong. Richie answered.

“I don’t know. The Fonz is monitoring the different radios and …you know, so he may have picked up something.” Everyone waited breathlessly, could this be word about…or even from Potsie? Richie watched his brother’s face grow grave then white.

Richie leaned over and asked “What is it?” Fonzie turned to him, eyes unfocused.

“It’s Chachi, the Candy Man's attacking Chachi.”

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Chachi was terribly worried. The outer defense systems had shown two boats coming toward Tracy Island with all speed. They would reach the island in an hour and Chachi did not know what to do. He was the only Fonziebird operative at the base at that time with only Joanie and Al to help him. He had called Al in to his lab and told him to come to Howard’s office ASAP. Then he had called Fonzie.

“The shots I've got of the boats show a bunch of strong armed guys and besides, who else knows Tracy Island's worth attacking. It's got to be the Cand Man. What am I supposed to do with no one to help take out these guys?” Fonzie frowned.

“First of all, you can cool it, Chach! Second, you can get Joanie into the bunkers. Make sure they are armed and have provisions cause we may not get there for a little while. Next, get Al up here.”

“Already preshere.” The Italian genius moved behind Chachi who was seated at the desk.

“Okay, Al, get some of your gadgets and work with Chachi to set up traps for our unwelcomed visitors. You two'll have to keep them busy til we get there. Dig it?” The two men nodded. Then, Howard’s face joined Fonzie’s.

“Al, Chachi, we’re counting on you to hold them off until we can get there. Be careful, both of you. And Chachi,” Chachi looked his father square in the eye, “I know you can do this. Just take care of yourself and our family, okay, boy-o?” Chachi nodded and then, both pictures winked out. The youngest Tracy turned to his father’s assistant.

“Al, we've got a lot of work to do. Let’s go see what miracles you’ve come up with.”

Twenty minutes later, everything was set up. Al and Chachi had laid different traps across the parts of the island the men were sure to come. Some had already been set up and all they had to do was activate them; but they had added quite a few good ones. Moreover, Joanie had absolutely refused to stay in the bunkers. Instead, she was going to cover one section of the island with gas capsules. As Chachi surveyed their handiwork from an outlook point, he had to admit they had done well. He radioed Al.

“We’re all set. Let’s lay low so they don’t suspect a thing. And Al, pray. Pray they can get Fonziebird 2 in the air soon.”

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 13- Battles

Fonzie and Richie flew with all speed to the Milwaukee airport. On the way, Fonzie radioed the head of the airport and explained as much of the situation as they could. By the time they had landed, all traffic near them had been put on hold. Quickly with the security, Fonzie and Richie had Fonziebird 2 out of the hanger and in lift off position. Fonzie ran through the preflight checklist in record time and then turned on the address system.

“Your men need to move to a safe distance. And thanks, dig it?” The head of the security detail saluted and started moving his men. When everyone was cleared to a safe distance, Fonzie activated the VOTL rockets. The massive machine rose unsteadily off the tarmac and then settled to a smooth vertical lift. When Fonzie had gained enough height, he pushed the steering column forward and the giant green ship started in the direction towards his father, brother and friend. Both men were desperately praying that time would not run out on them.

Howard, Marion and Ralph were moving quickly to an open field a slight distance from their last campsite. There, Fonziebird 2 was to meet them so they could proceed to Tracy Island. Ralph, though he had not voiced his concerns, was discontented about leaving. He begrudged even one minute away from the search for Potsie but he realized he was needed back at base. Besides, what would Potsie say if Ralph let the Candy Man get away with attacking the family again? Ralph had to grin; it was a very amusing picture.

Fonziebird 2 landed three minutes after its take off from the airport. As the three IR men raced on board, Fonzie moved just in time for Ralph to take the pilot’s chair. If anyone could coax more speed out of the transport ship, it was Ralph. When the ship gained the necessary height, Ralph rammed the steering column forward as hard as he could. The large machine shot off towards the island home, while each member of the organization, founded only for aiding fellow humans in need, had to sit and worry about a brother and a son.

Chachi tried to make himself smaller in his hideout/lookout spot. The boats were drawing up to the shore and the young boy could see the assault rifles the men were carrying. The first boat landed and five men jumped out. The last grounded the boat and then joined his comrades. The other boat landed and five more men came ashore. One tall Italian-American man gestured half of the group to scale the mountain towards the round house. The other half was directed to the main house. Al glanced towards the youngest Tracy and nodded when he caught his attention. The older man flipped a switch on his remote control device and saw the reassuring green light turn on. The traps around the Round House were set and Joanie could knock the intruders unconscious with the gas capsules. Then he turned his attention to the more eminent problem: the group of men coming straight towards Chachi’s position!
Chachi was not sure whether he should leave his position or stay put and hope every one of the men were stone blind. Not likely knowing the Candy Man. Chachi’s jaw tightened when he thought of the evil man who had almost destroyed the Fonziebirds just a year earlier. He was determined to foil the Candy Man’s plan once again. Chachi gauged the distance left between his hiding place and the Candy Man’s men. Suddenly, an idea came to him. He slowly raised his watch to his mouth. Turning the volume down to the lowest audible level, he whispered his plan to Al. Al reluctantly agreed; it was a risk but a lesser one then the alternative.

Eugene lead the group ordered to infiltrate the main house. He hoped to be the one to capture the Tracy most hated by his master. The young man had caused more trouble then could be believed but Eugene felt prepared to face him. After all, he was only a child. Movement in front and slightly to his left caused him to pause. Unexpectedly, the young Tracy boy shot out from behind a screen of bushes and raced towards the house. Eugene ran a short ways until he came to a clear stretch. Then he leveled his rifle, not to kill but only to incapacitate. Before he could squeeze the trigger, he felt one of his men stiffen then fall to the ground. Looking around, he noticed several of his men lying still on the ground. Quickly, he threw himself on the ground. He was now the only member of the team left. He watched as the one his boss hated the most scanned the area and then waved to someone. Eugene watched as a man stood up not two meters from him with a laser pistol in his hand. He raised his hand but before he could do anything, Eugene raised his rifle and fired.

Chachi watched as Al slumped to the ground. He couldn’t tell if he was wounded or… A blind fury seized Chachi and without thought, without reason, he attacked the man who had shot his friend. The tall Italian-American man was well trained in hand-to-hand combat but Chachi had grown up with four older brothers. For what seemed like hours, the two traded blows until Chachi found himself under the older man. A blow to the head rendered him semi unconscious. As his world turned black, he felt the great weight of the unknown man lifted from his body. Then he knew no more.

Light blinded him for a moment, so he squeezed his eyes shut. He heard someone say, “Turn the lights low,” and the light dimmed. Slowly, the young boy opened his eyes. Someone was leaning close; he could feel them checking his head and winced when their fingers made contact with an open cut. Slowly, his eyes came into focus. There was his father, gently binding the cut on his forehead.

He croaked out, “Dad?” He could see the smile the Tracy boys loved the most.

“It’s Okay, son. Lie still. You had a rough time but you sure gave him one hell of a fight.” A tired grin crossed Chachi’s face before he lapsed back into unconsciousness.

Ralph came up beside his father in time to see Chachi lose consciousness. Though his father had tried to be upbeat so he would not upset his son, Ralph could tell Howard was extremely worried. And angry. The Candy Man had attacked another one of his sons and Howard had once again been absent and had not been able to protect one of his beloved sons. Ralph glanced over his shoulder where a large group of people was working diligently around another bed. Squeezing his father’s shoulder, he walked over and watched as Fonzie wrapped the last bit of bandage around Al's shoulder. Luckily, the shot had passed right through, though he had lost a great deal of blood. The scientist lay unconscious on the bed with an IV replenishing his dwindled supply of blood. He was checking his blood pressure while Joanie was disposing of the bloody cloths used to clean the wound. Ralph sighed and offered a silent thank you to God. His brother and friend were safe. Then his feeling of peace left him as quickly as it had come. He could not say the same about Potsie.

Jennifer peered around the doorpost. Their way was clear. Grabbing Potsie’s left hand with her right, she began to lead him quietly down the corridor. In her left, she carried the metal pole used to free Potsie; Potsie carried the guard’s rifle. She knew they would have need of them soon enough. Reaching an open area, she stopped and signaled him to halt as well. Cautiously, she glanced around the corner. Silently, she cursed. Suddenly, she jumped when a hand was placed on her shoulder. Turning around, she looked with amazement on a grinning Potsie. He quickly signed.

"You need to wash your mouth out with soap. You might not have known it but you said a pretty bad word." Potsie said sounding like Howard. After all of the stress, it felt good to joke about something. Jennifer laughed which made Potsie glad. Mentally shaking himself, he quickly questioned her on their situation.

"How many are there?" she grimaced.

"Three. Two face away from us while one is looking in our direction."

"What are we gonna do?"

"I think…I think we need a diversion. They think you're still chained up so it makes sense for me to do it. Let’s see…" Unknowingly, she stopped signing as her right hand found it’s way to her loosened hair. Grasping a handful, she would pull at it and then repeat the process. Potsie watched her as a memory stirred in the back of his mind. He pushed it down; right now was not the time. He had to focus on others things. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he nearly jumped when he felt a small, delicate yet strong hand rest on his arm. Quickly, Jennifer outlined her plan.

Sticky and the other men were bored. They had relieved the night guards early in the morning and it was now past noon. They still had several hours to look forward to and Sticky was fed up. He did not understand why he could not be a part of one of his boss’s units or serve him in some other way. A sudden noise alerted him and caused him to look down the corridor. He saw the young girl, the one his boss had been working on for many years, coming down the corridor towards him. Her hair was undone and disheveled. Her jacket/cloak was torn in multiple places and her skirt had huge tears in it. She was stumbling incoherently and moving her lips as if trying to speak. Without a thought, Sticky dropped his rifle and ran towards her. He watched as she began to fall; luckily, he got there just in time to catch her. The other guards came up and circled round him so they could help him for she had begun to convulse in his arms. Quickly, they helped him lower her to the ground and one helped him hold her down. The other quickly ran down the hallway to get medical help.

Sticky was so busy looking after the young woman that he did not notice the disappearance of his fellow guard until it was too late. He glanced up and saw the young International Rescue operative tying him up. He looked down at the beautiful girl and saw her grinning at him. She thrust her hand palm up and made contact with his chin; it was the last thing he saw for quite some time. Jumping quickly up, she dusted herself off and helped Potsie drag the three unconscious and now bound, guards into a nearby closet. Throwing them in there, they quickly locked the door and continued their search for the way out.

Jennifer carefully peered around yet another corner, then signed that the coast was clear. She and Potsie walked quickly down this new hallway, but she stopped him midway. Cautiously, Jennifer opened a door marked 'Storage'. Letting Potsie in, she quietly closed the door behind them. Switching on a light, Potsie beheld boxes stacked to the ceiling. Jennifer quickly went to one and pulled out two packs. She handed one to Potsie then stepped over to boxes in one corner of the room. Two first-aid packs were pulled out, followed by two flashlights. For several minutes, Jennifer loaded up both of their packs and then motioned Potsie to the door. Before leaving the room, she pulled one more item from a box; a pair of hiking boots. Looking down at her feet, Potsie realized how smart that was; her silk slippers would not have lasted ten minutes. She switched off the light and shut the door. Motioning him to another door a little ways down the hallway, she started moving towards it. Jennifer carefully opened the door and Potsie saw a room full of pre-packaged food that was ideal for surviving in the wilderness.

Quickly, they packed every remaining space in their packs with the food. Jennifer also grabbed two canteens for each of them and they filled them with the water stored in the room. As she was about to leave, Potsie placed his hand on her shoulder.

"Oh man, we'll need more water then this. Has the Candy Man got any aquasanitas capsules?" asked Potsie.

"I think so but I don’t know where. We’ll have to look. The aquasanitas capsule was a wonder of modern chemistry. All you had to do was drop it in a canister of water and it'll kill any harmful bacteria or viruses that might be contaminating the water. This was very helpful for people who ran into polluted drinking water because of their jobs. It also cleared up all polluted rivers and wells in third world countries. The scientist, who wanted to remain anonymous when the capsule was introduced, and his employer footed the bill for the clearing up of the world’s drinking water." Potsie knew the capsule well since Al had been that scientist.

Looking around, he finally spotted the familiar symbol and container. His father had insisted that all the Fonziebirds carry the capsules and it had saved more than one Tracy life. He quickly picked up a couple containers for each of them, and they crammed the boxes into their full packs. Jennifer cautiously opened the door and looked outside. There was no one around. They went down several more hallways until they could see the main entrance, heavily guarded of course. Potsie rested his back against the stone wall and closed his eyes. They had come so close but he now realized it was impossible. They would never escape; they would die here. His breathing became erratic, and his heart thudded harder and harder against his chest. His world was caving in around him; he was hyperventilating and could not stop himself. Suddenly in the darkness of his despair, he felt another human’s touch, kindly but strong and sure. The hands grasped his face and wiped the sweat off it. Then the hands turned him around and began slowly kneading his shoulder muscles which currently had the properties of steel. When he started to gasp for breath, the hands were there, helping him pause then take a deep breath. Pause, breath, pause, breath. Finally his panic ended and he could open his eyes. He found himself looking into Jennifer’s eyes, so full of understanding. Taking one hand from his shoulder, she signed what he needed to hear the most.

"We'll get out. Somehow, someway, we'll get out. But I need your help, otherwise we're lost." Potsie nodded. They would get out; together, they could do anything.

"Now, we won’t go out the main entrance; it is never unguarded. However, this is an old temple and I've heard stories told at the parties of secret passages and trap doors. There must be another way out of here and we'll find it." As she finished saying this, she took Potsie’s hand and began leading him in another direction. After what seemed like hours, during which they felt every square inch of what Jennifer was sure were outer walls, Potsie found a crack. He traced the unnaturally straight crack until the outline of a door appeared. Grabbing one of Jennifer’s hands, he quickly signed his discovery.

"I think I found a doorway out of here." Jennifer said as she traced the outline, then turned and grinned at her friend.

"I think you're right. Let’s find a way to open it." After more costly time spent searching, Jennifer motioned to Potsie to come stand beside her. When he reached her side, he instantly saw what she had found. A small, invisible, except from their exact position, switch was staring at him innocently. Jennifer flipped the switch up and their action was instantly rewarded when the door swung open. They both stared at the open door, then into each other eyes. Here was their gateway to freedom but they had a long hard road before they could get true freedom from the devil who had tortured them body and soul. Neither was sure if they could take the first step.

It was as if they had read each other’s minds. For at the same instant, they asked the identical question to each other.

"Shall we go together?" Potsie quickly tried to stifle a giggle while Jennifer had no such compulsion. She threw her head back and laughed uproariously, yet silently. Potsie grabbed her hand, getting her attention immediately.

"We’ll go together." So saying, he pulled her into the opening and they began the journey through the dark, damp, stone walls.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 14- The Cost

Chachi woke up sometime later, only to find himself lying in his own bed. As his headache was now only a dull pain, he slowly raised himself up to a sitting position. Instantly, his oldest brother Fonzie was at his side.

"How are you doing, kiddo?" he gently ruffled the tussled, blond hair. He wished to show brotherly affection but it was tempered by his desire not to cause his brother more pain. Chachi shrugged; then his eyes grew wide.

"Al! Is he…?" Fonzie quickly shook his head.

"He's okay. His shoulder will be out of commission for a while but he'll soon be good as new. We were more worried about you. The way you kept slipping in and out of consciousness. Dad about drove us all nutso, he was so worried." He paused, then nudged his youngest brother's arm and said "You did good, Chach."

Chachi's face broke into a huge smile. It always made him feel so good when his hero brothers were proud of him. Sometimes, he felt he just didn't measure up to them. Then a thought brought a frown to his face.

"What about Potsie? Did you find him?" Fonzie's shoulders slumped and Chachi had his answer. For several minutes, neither one said a word. Then Chachi hazarded a question.

"How's Ralph handling this?"

Fonzie sighed "I ain't sure. Sometimes he seems great; other times, he hides himself away in Fonziebird 2's hanger or spends countless hours playing insensible music on the piano. He keeps begging Dad to let us go back to Milwaukee but Dad won't let us. He wants to make sure the base is safe before we go back. Plus, with you and Al out of commission," Chachi began sputtering out a reply but Fonzie stopped him. "You ain't at 100 and you know it. With the two of you out of commission for awhile, some of us will have to stay, and that means less people searching for Potsie. Lori Beth's stayed behind and is working to find out more about the Candy Man. She and Tom are hoping to discover the location of his hideout by the end of the week. Then we'll go back and resume the search; that should give us enough time to make the base safe. And no, you can't come! You're still unsteady on your feet. Now get back in bed before I get a needle and make you sleep!"

Chachi quickly climbed back into bed. Fonzie was the cool brother and when he threatened, the others generally believed him. Before he knew it, he was asleep.

Howard sat on a sofa thinking about the Candy Man operative that had jumped over the cliff before Fonzie and he could reach him. He had pulled the man off Chachi and the man had push away from him. Both he and Fonzie had chased him to the cliff. Then, with an insolent salute, the man had thrown himself from the cliff, depriving the Tracys of his knowledge. Howard remembered how Fonzie had turned pale and threw up. He himself had felt nauseated. What kind of man caused such misguided loyalty or pure terror to cause two men to kill themselves rather then allow his secrets to fall into the wrong hands?

Howard looked over at his middle son. Ralph was tunelessly hammering away at the piano. After all day of this, Howard's nerves were at the breaking point. So far, he had held his temper, knowing this was the only outlet his son had for his frustrations. Being around the machines was too painful for him right now. After a particularly harsh and trying chord, Howard snapped.

"Ralph Virgil, are you trying to kill the piano and our ears or are you just inventing another form of torture?" he was immediately sorry that he had said anything. Everyone was worried sick about Potsie and Ralph had lost his main way of relieving his fears and frustrations with his disappearance. Ralph stood up and slammed the cover of the piano down as hard as he could. Then, without so much as a glance at his father, he stalked out of the room. Howard looked up and saw Marion, Al and a newly arrived Fonzie staring at him as if he had grown six arms. Without saying a word, Fonzie ran after his brother while Marion gazed reproachfully at the Tracy father as she left the room. The head of the Tracy family fell back into his chair and let his head fall into his hands. How could he have been so uncaring? He should have been helping Ralph, letting him vent his frustrations to him. Instead, he had snapped at him and ridiculed him in front of his family.

A strong hand on his shoulder brought him back to his senses. Al was resting his good hand on Howard's shoulder and waiting for his employer to speak.

"How could I have been so unfeeling? This whole situation's killing him inside; we all can see that. And instead of helping him, I deride him and take away the one outlet he has left. What kind of father am I?"

"A human one," Howard's head shot up to look at his good friend. Al was looking at him with kindness and…understanding in his eyes. "This situation's killing you, too. Every one of us is extremely worried and lessened with Potsie's disappearance. Each one of us has a different way of dealing with these feelings. It was inevitable that we would try one another's nerves. However, understanding that and acting on it are two different things. Talk with him, tell him you're sorry and let him talk to you. I think he has been giving us a plea for someone to help him but he's Ralph; he won't ask for it outright." Howard nodded. The Italian scientist knew his son well. Without a sound, he got up from his desk and began his search for his son.

It did not take long for Howard had known from the beginning where his son would go. Yet, when he entered Fonziebird 2, no one was there. He quickly contacted Fonzie on his watch.

"Fonzie, could you connect with Fonziebird 5 and locate Ralph's signal?" Fonzie logged in on his computer and within minutes was accessing the satellite's tracking station.

"Here it is…it shows him in his room." Howard shook his head.

"I looked there right after I found Fonziebird 2 empty." Fonzie looked his father straight in the eye.

"Did you check in Fonziebird 1?" The older man started. No one had gone near the sleek ship since Richie had flown it back to the island the day Potsie had disappeared. Every time the father thought of his second eldest son's ship, his stomach clenched painfully. He could not bear the thought that Potsie would never see his beloved ship again.

"Why the hell would Ralph be there?" Fonzie shrugged.

"Just a thought. Knowing his mood these last couple of days, I'd say he wants to be as close to Potsie as he can. What better place then Fonziebird 1? I went in there a couple of times, just to get away…" Howard stared at his son. The normally assured young man was not there; slumped shoulders and frightened, evasive eyes had replaced him.

"Son…" Fonzie shook his head as if trying to shake off a mantle of despair.

"Just find Ralph, Dad. He needs you." Howard gazed at the blank screen. He was losing his sons; one by one, they were drawing into themselves and allowing their pain to control them. A wave of panic filled the father as he felt his helplessness drown him. He had not been able to be there for his sons when his wife Marion died, as he had sustained a complete breakdown. It had fallen both on Potsie and Fonzie's shoulders to aid, heal, tend and care for three heartbroken children with one of them barely in school. Howard had been proud of his son and been…well, thankful was not adequate. Yet he had never told him, never thanked him for shouldering a man's burden at such a young age. Walking quickly to Fonziebird 1's hangar, Howard vowed that if…when they got Potsie back, he would tell him…tell him how much he appreciated him.

Ralph sat in Potsie's chair, his hands running repeatedly over the controls. His face and shirt were drenched with tears, yet his eyes were dry. He had no more tears; he had cried them all. Now he just sat there, emotionally and physically spent. He did not want to face his family especially his father. He just…he just.

Warm, loving arms encircled his tense shoulders. Ralph struggled at first not wanting any of his family to see him like this. Then, of its own accord, his body melted in the embrace. Shoulders shaking, dry sobs echoed through the cockpit. His eyes may not have had any more tears but his heart and spirit needed to cry.

Marion, Joanie, Richie, Fonzie, Al and Chachi raced or attempted to race into Howard's office. They found Howard sitting in his chair behind his desk with Ralph sitting beside him on the desk. Fonzie was pleasantly astonished to see Ralph looking so…normal. His eyes were two pieces of blue swimming in a sea of blood but his face was calm and had a look of peace on it. Fonzie had not seen for several days. The old Ralph was not back but this was his closest kin.

"Thank you all for coming as quickly as you did. We have to make a decision. This could be the toughest one we have yet had to make. I know all of you want to go back and rescue Potsie but we have all seen what happened the last time we all left Tracy Island," Everyone glanced towards Al and Chachi. "I know that normally, I'd be the one to make this decision but this isn't a normal situation and it's unfair to ask any of you to go against a matter of the heart. Therefore, I'm going to have each of us vote on this. This is a secret ballot. No one has to know what you decide; but your belief, your opinion is wanted. I…I can't make this decision on my own. I can't decide between the almost certain death of one and the possible deaths of more sons and family. I…I can't." Everyone watched in awed silence as the brave, strong astronaut and commander of the secret International Rescue organization broke. He had not broken during the fiasco with the Candy Man three weeks ago nor when faced with the knowledge that the organization he had given his all to was about to be destroyed. He had not broken even with the news that Chachi and Tracy Island were in danger. Yet, so much had happened, all of this and more and now the toughest thing he had had to face yet was here. Could he doom a son to certain death with the knowledge that they would never see Potsie again, alive or dead? Maybe it was not so surprising. He was, after all, a father too. Before anyone could move, Ralph leapt off the desk and raced around. He knelt beside his father and enveloped him in his arms. He turned to the rest of the family.

"On the desk are the data sheets. Each one has a name on it. Go to your rooms, ships, anywhere on the island and write out what you think. Dad'll carefully read each one and then reconvene this meeting. Then the…the decision will be made." Turning his face from the stunned group, he rested his head against his father He alone knew what this decision had cost him. What he might have to pay for it later if…well, he thought as he squeezed his father's shoulders, best not to think about that now.

[Race's Girl]

Chapter 15: A Long Ways to Go

Potsie cautiously pushed against the obtrusion that blocked their way to freedom. Jennifer steadied the torch and made sure the beam was where he needed it to be. Both knew that if they could not get the obstacle out of their way soon, their chances of survival would be nil at best.

“Judging from my inability to move this thing, there has to be a switch or lever or something. Do you see anything?” Jennifer shook her head and then quickly signed her response.

“I’ll look around. Do you want this torch or do you want me to get yours out?” Potsie whispered back.

“If you could. I’ll start on the left side, and you start on the right.” For several minutes, neither spoke nor thought of anything except how to escape from the hell they had been forced into. Fingers soon grew rough, then bled as the hands scrambled frantically across the rough stones. Finally, just as both of them were about to give up, Potsie’s smallest finger grazed over an obtrusion in the otherwise similarly shaped stone. Quickly, he pushed against it and grinned as their prison door creaked open. Jennifer turned and stood, staring. The sun…she had not seen the sun since…for many years. The golden liquid shimmered around her: highlighting her hair, accenting her pale complexion and making her dark eyes shine like diamonds. For a moment, Potsie swore he saw a pool of water gather and fall down her face and then he dismissed it. He had not seen Jennifer cry; she had not shed one tear since the first whipping he had seen. He had to give her that; she was very strong-emotionally as well as physically, despite her wounds. After waiting for a couple of minutes, he reluctantly placed his hand on her arm.

“It’s time. We need to get as far from here as possible.” She nodded and picking up her pack, slipped through the opening.

The crystal shattered against the far wall and multi-colored pieces fell to the ground like snow. The normally unruffled, unphasable criminal mastermind was furious. His face and dark head were as crimson as his robe and his eyes, those cruel eyes, seemed to be consumed by fire. All of his slaves and henchmen were kneeling in front of him, praying to whatever gods they had turned their backs on to save them from this dangerous man. In an instant his fire was replaced with cruel ice. His face smoothed to it normal, detached state and his whole body seemed to uncurl. Calmly and deliberately seating himself on his throne, he surveyed the quaking masses of flesh in front of him. He would not give into anger; anger was for weaklings. A true genius, a true man could detach his emotions from any situation and act calmly and destructively.

“Well, what do you think we should do?” His words and mostly the flash of his mental powers cut deeper then any whiplash ever could; every man flinched as he spoke. Finally, Eugene came forward. Eugene was a huge man; he seemed to fill even the vast throne room. He had the same hair color as both Sticky and the Candy Man and a voice as deep as is humanly possible. He had been in the Hood’s employment for many years. Eugene bowed to no one but he was loyal and had served his leader well. The Candy Man was willing to accept this arrangement. Eugene was one of the few people he trusted completely or at least as completely as he could.

“Boss, we got the man power and technology to track them. Two of our guys are wounded, weakened by lack of food, armed with little or nothing. Hell, one of them's a chick-they got no chance against us. Let me lead a group and have another lead a group. With two groups searching, we're bound to find them. When we do…” Eugene’s eyes were two black holes without mercy or kindness. The mastermind steepled his fingers and nodded slightly.

“Very good, Eugene. We'll try your plan. But, don't underestimate them. Both the girl and the Fonziebird operative. You lead one group as you're the most trustworthy of all my…employees. Sticky'll lead the other.” Every man in the room nervously glanced at his neighbor. If the Candy Man was going to take an active role, they had better find the escapees. Their lives depended on it.

Jennifer lead Potsie into a nearby drive-in for several minutes until they came to a payphone. They stood by the payphone for sometime; for, according to Jennifer, the Candy Man owned several dogs gifted in tracking. Finally, they left the drive-in and walked deep into the city. Quickly, Jennifer shimmied up a tree, then gestured for Potsie to do likewise. When they had found reasonably comfortable spots, they both settled down to sleep. They had a long ways to go.

Jennifer awoke to find her world darkened by the arrival of night. As the nights were cold, she and Potsie had huddled together for warmth. She cautiously and with as little movement as possible raised her head so that she could study the stars. She quickly found the Southern Cross and used it to find her sorority house. She was so glad they could actually see the dim star because of the city around them. Every cloud has a silver lining. The realist in her quickly came back when she discovered that they had been moving east. Silently, as usual, she cursed their bad luck. They needed to head west if they were going to reach the destination she had in mind. That meant they would have to pass right by the Candy Man’s base. Not the brightest thing to do, but they had no other choice. She sighed internally. If the Candy Man did what she thought he would, then they would soon be tracked by the world’s best hunter: a hunter of humans. She shivered uncontrollably. Unbidden, her mind flashback to one of the more…unique of the Candy Man’s tortures for her.

She ran blindly through the forest, never stopping for breath or to check her bleeding feet. The wind of Milwaukee slapped at her body as she dodged the multiple obstacles created by Pfhister Park. Finally, she could go no further. Leaning her back against a nearby tree, she sucked deep gulps of air; her vision growing alternately darker then lighter as oxygen-rich blood pounded through her brain.

A sudden noise made her hold her breath. There. The sound of a boot snapping twigs underfoot. The young woman felt her eyes grow wide and her body seize with fear. It couldn’t be, not him. She began running again. No sense of direction, no knowledge of whether she was heading out of or into danger. She only knew she had to get far away from her pursuer.

That night she spent up a tree, the whole time listening for any sound that was out of place in the park that seemed to go on forever. The next day, she continued. Her whole body ached with exhaustion and fatigue; the only thing keeping her legs moving and supporting her weight was grit: true force of mind pressing the body to go on beyond its endurance. She knew he was getting closer; she could feel it, she just knew it. Still she kept running.

Two days later, she came to an opening in the park. Making her body as small and unnoticeable as possible, she peered into a scene that was as close to heaven as she would get for many years…a city. The people went about their daily lives, unaware that a young, hurting girl was avidly watching all of their goings on. She stayed in the same position all day, watching, waiting and hoping. For she had seen something that was worth all the gold in the world: a radio antenna.

The stars were shining on the small village that had not seen technology since the old wave radios. However, she didn’t care. It would serve her purpose. If she could send out a call for help, then she could—blessed, extraordinary thought—finally be free of…of HIM! Warily, she moved towards the dilapidated shed that seemed to house the radio. Although she had heard nothing from her stalker for several hours, she could not relax. If it was who she thought it was, then you needed to worry most when you didn’t hear him. That meant he was ready to pounce. When she reached the door, she carefully lifted the latch and crept inside. Carefully closing the door behind her, she began to walk towards her hope.

A sudden noise right behind her cause her turn around. Standing right behind her was…Eugene! She shook her head and let out a yelp of fear. He quickly wrapped his huge hands around her small neck and applied pressure until she slipped into unconsciousness. Her last thought was of a dying ember of hope.

Tears began forming around the edges of her eyes, but she quickly dashed them away. That was the past and even if Eugene was tracking them, this time she was armed. This time she was better prepared. Jennifer was also positive about one thing: no matter what, she was never going back.

Potsie opened one bleary eye and then sat up quickly. Night sounds were all around them and the stars were their only light. Looking around, he noticed Jennifer was staring off into the distance. Tapping her on the shoulder, he asked with his eyes if everything was all right. She nodded. Then she began speaking again.

“I think it's best if we travel at night. It's dangerous and hard to do but it's more dangerous for us if we're caught. I know of place that's got a wave radio. Do you think you could contact your organization if we could get to the radio?” Potsie nodded his head without a second’s hesitation. Fonziebird 5’s signal dishes had been built with the ability to pickup any kind of signal—radio, visual, wave, laser—and it had always performed admirably.

“There is one other thing…” Jennifer hesitated. She did not want to tell him. “The radio station's due west of here. That means…we'll have to retrace our steps. We'll have to go past the Candy Man’s hideout again.” She watched as he grimaced. He did not want to go back there anymore then she did. However, they both knew they had too. There was no other way.