Redemption

Early morning, Others camp

Ben Linus sat at the table in his residence eating his breakfast. He reached for the French press pot and poured himself a cup of coffee. The hand holding the cup shook slightly and it took all his concentration to steady it. The tingling in his fingers and toes was getting worse lately too. Ben put that thought out of his mind. He didn't have time to focus on his physical frailties or grim prognosis at the moment. There were more important things to worry about. Nibbling distractedly on a piece of toast he thought about Kelvin and what he had sent him to do. He liked the former intelligence agent but wasn't sure if he completely trusted him. Hopefully he would be successful in infiltrating the survivors camp and bringing John Locke back with him. Ben glanced at the clock. It was almost time to meet with Juliet. He had mixed feelings about that. They had been much more than friends once. Now they were colleagues only and their relationship was strained but pleasant. Ben couldn't help but be a little jealous of how she was treating Jack. Making him homemade soup and juicy cheeseburgers and spending, in Ben's opinion anyway too much time with Jack. “I've been diagnosed with a serious tumor on my spine and she can't even be bothered to ask how I'm feeling or how I'm handling it.” he thought bitterly. Finishing his coffee Ben stood and cleared the table. It was time to get on with his day.

In the jungle, mid-morning

Locke and Kelvin walked through the jungle on their way to the camp of the Others. So far everything was going according to plan. Kelvin kept his senses tuned to everything around him. There was no one around and it didn't appear they were being followed. He thought about what would happen when they arrived. Ben hadn't told him what he had in mind for Locke but Kelvin could imagine it was more than just tea and a nice conversation. He hoped they weren't planning to hurt Locke or experiment on him.

A ways back Desmond and Danielle arrived at the abandoned bunker. There were more footprints but no sign of Locke or Kelvin. “I think we bloody missed them again.” Desmond said. “Do we even have a chance to catch up to them?” Danielle asked. Desmond thought about this. “Possibly.” he replied. “Even if we don't we can keep following their tracks. That might be better anyway.” He remembered what had happened the last time he had followed Kelvin. He certainly didn't want a repeat of that. Keeping their distance would definitely be the most prudent thing. They stopped for a short break then continued on following the tracks through the jungle. They had been walking for a while when Desmond heard the faint sound of voices ahead of them. “Do you really know where the Others' camp is?” A voice that sounded like Locke said. “Have a little faith, John. I wouldn't lead you on a wild goose chase.” Desmond shivered. That could only have been Kelvin. He'd know that deep voice anywhere. “Is that them?” Danielle asked. Desmond nodded. “Yes it is.” Danielle looked at him. “Why don't we ask to join them?” Desmond didn't like that idea at all. “I don't think that would be a good idea.” he replied. “I don't think they would welcome the company.” He knew Kelvin wouldn't. “We can keep following them from a distance. I think that would be safer.” Danielle didn't like this but she accepted it. “I thought they were your friends?” “They are.” Desmond answered. “It's kind of complicated. I was told to go back to the beach and not say I met this friend in the jungle. He would not be pleased if I showed up now, even if it was for a good reason.” They continued walking, keeping a safe distance from the other two. Desmond hoped Kelvin would be distracted talking to Locke and would not be aware they were being followed.

Others camp, Hydra station

Ben and Juliet stood at the observation window watching Jack Shepard pace angrily in his containment room. The TV was showing a tape of cartoons (Space Ghost and Sponge Bob) although Jack wasn't paying much attention to it. “He still isn't very cooperative.” Juliet said. “Give him time. He'll come to see things our way soon enough.” Juliet turned to Ben. “Maybe having another of his friends held captive will help change his mind. If Kelvin is successful, that is.” Ben didn't like the edge in her voice when she said this last. “He will be, don't you worry.” He couldn't keep the edge out of his own voice. “Why don't you care about me anymore?” he wanted to ask, but didn't. “I don't quite trust this Kelvin.” Juliet said. “What do you actually know about him?” Ben looked at her. “Enough. I know he was with the CIA and was an intelligence officer for the army. He was also an employee of the Dharma Initiative, though not a high ranking one. I trust him to do the mission I sent him on.” Juliet looked at Jack. He was sitting on the bunk staring sullenly at the TV. Ben didn't like the look currently on Juliet's face. He sincerely hoped she wasn't developing feelings for the doctor. Ben stared at the glass in front of him. His back was beginning to hurt but he forced the feeling from his mind. He absolutely could not show weakness now. “You think Danny will get over losing Colleen?” Juliet asked. “I think he will in time. It's hard to lose someone you love. Especially like that.” Juliet nodded. “You didn't seem too upset about it.” Ben looked at her. “Just because I didn't show it doesn't mean I wasn't moved. There is a time and a place for things like that.” He wondered how upset Juliet would be if he died. “I'll have to have a talk with him. I don't want him roughing Sawyer up too much yet.” They walked out of the viewing room.

Chapter 2

In the jungle

Kelvin and Locke were getting close to the encampment where the Others had Jack, Kate and Sawyer. (They were still a good distance from where they lived, but that wasn't where he had been told to bring Locke.) Kelvin wondered if there were sentries stationed anywhere in the jungle. If he was in charge he would definitely have lookouts stationed in the area leading to their base. So far he hadn't seen anybody. He was actually glad of this. Ben's people were loyal but most of them didn't have any military training or intelligence training. Kelvin didn't like security being left to a bunch of wanna bes and weekend warriors. Some of them also had a propensity for being trigger happy. “It's not much farther now.” he told Locke. The sun was getting low in the sky. Hopefully they would arrive at the camp by dark. He would suggest to Locke that they do some sneaking and peeking under cover of night. Once they were inside it would be out of his hands. “You sure this is where they're being held?” Locke asked. “This appears to be the Others' base of operations. I'm not exactly sure where in there your friends are being held.” Locke nodded. “Did you happen to notice what kind of weapons they had?” Locke asked. “One of our group was captured by them a while ago when he went looking for his son. He said the group was pretty primitive.” Kelvin looked at Locke. He was talking about Michael. The young father hadn't seen the Others' real base and had been only given certain information. Kelvin still didn't understand why they gave up Walt so easily. He sounded like a good bargaining chip. “They did seem kind of raggedy, but I wouldn't underestimate them.” He paused. “I didn't see any weapons except for a couple guns.” Locke looked like he was thinking about this. “I hope you're right.” He turned to Kelvin. “I still don't like being here almost unarmed.” Just then a sound could be heard through the trees. Someone was coming. Kelvin gestured for Locke to get back and they both slipped behind a nearby grouping of trees. Several of Ben's people stepped into the clearing. So he had sent watchmen after all. Kelvin didn't recognize any of the men except that they were Others. Probably low level grunts. His closest associates like Tom and Danny Pickett would never get sent on sentry duty. (Good thing too. Pickett was known to have a short fuse and to be trigger happy.) “Let's go this way.” Kelvin suggested. “See if we can evade them.” They walked deeper into the jungle going parallel to their original path. Hopefully they hadn't been seen.

A short while later they turned and went north, the direction of the camp. “I think we lost them.” Kelvin said to Locke. They hadn't seen hide nor hair of the sentries since they had changed paths. “Here we are.” They stepped out of the shelter of the trees to see the settlement in the distance. “We should probably wait until full dark before we go any farther. I don't know how many more of our friends are out there waiting for trespassers.” Kelvin told Locke. “They're not my friends.” Locke said. Kelvin nodded. “Mine either.” They hunkered down to wait. Kelvin turned at the sound of a branch breaking behind them. He wished he had more than a pocket knife to defend himself with. “Hold it right there.” a voice said. Several more of Ben's goon squad stood there armed with semi-automatic rifles, Kalashnikov if Kelvin wasn't mistaken. The question of where Ben's group had gotten Russian sub machine guns was pushed to the back of his mind by his irritation at being caught like a fish in a barrel. “We don't want any trouble.” Locke said. He stood slowly. Kelvin followed suit. “We're not armed.” He held out his empty hands. “You can put the guns down.” He wanted to bark “Do you know who I am?” but knew it probably wouldn't do much good. He didn't know any of these men either. The Others held their guns level but loosened their fingers on the triggers. Locke looked at Kelvin as if to say “They only had several guns, huh?” Kelvin shrugged back. He had a “so shoot me” look on his face. “You two are coming with us.” one of the men said. “ I guess we don't have much of a choice.” Locke didn't look happy but he knew he was outnumbered and out gunned. One of the Others bound their wrists while the other two stood guard. “I'm sorry” Kelvin mouthed to Locke as they were led away. He actually wasn't too upset by this latest development. Once they arrived and were brought to someone in charge he would be released. He hoped these goons got their asses handed to them for capturing one of their own. Locke would be kept in custody, unfortunately. Kelvin glowered under the hood that had been roughly put over his head. His expression changed to a smile as he imagined what he would do to these inept guards if he ever got to interrogate them. Even though he couldn't see he had a rough idea of where they were going as they were prodded along. He hoped Locke was doing okay.

A short time later there was the sound of a key in a lock and a door being opened. The bag was yanked off his head and he was shoved inside a small room. He assumed Locke was being taken somewhere similar. The door was closed and he was left alone. “If someone doesn't come soon and untie me heads are going to roll.” he thought.

Chapter 3

Out in the jungle, Desmond and Danielle ducked behind some trees as they heard the sound of someone approaching. “I think we're getting close.” Desmond said. They watched as several Others with guns stepped out of the trees. “Where do you think Locke and your friend went?” Danielle asked. Desmond wasn't completely sure since the footprints veered off near here. “They probably took a roundabout way to avoid them” He gestured to the Others. “I think we should do the same.” Danielle nodded. They slipped silently deeper into the jungle. They continued walking for a while, keeping to this same circuitous path. There didn't seem to be any sign of the sentries. Maybe they had lost them, if they could be so lucky. "Halt right there.” Desmond and Danielle turned. Several men stood blocking their path. There was a clicking sound as they cocked their rifles. "We don't want any trouble, mates." Desmond said."What are you doing out here?" one of them asked. "You're kind of far from your camp." Desmond thought for a moment. "We were out hunting. We got a little lost." He put an innocent look on his face. "Is that so?" the guard replied. He turned to his companions. "Bind their hands. They're coming with us." "Is that really necessary?" Desmond asked. "I'm afraid it is." the man replied. "You can't do this." Danielle protested. "You're mistaken there little lady. We certainly can." the man paused. "You're on our side of the island now." Desmond and Danielle looked at each other. He hadn't wanted anything like this to happen. "Hey. Easy, brutha." Desmond said as his hands were yanked roughly behind his back and tied. He saw they were doing the same to Danielle moments before a bag was pulled over his head. "Let's move it out." one of the men said. Desmond felt himself being shoved forward. He was angry but there was nothing much he could do about it at the moment.

In the camp Ben stood listening to the sentries give their report. "We caught two interlopers out in the jungle." The leader, a man named Adams said. "A bald guy and a big guy wearing glasses." Ben nodded. "Were they middle aged men or younger?" he asked. "I'd say middle aged." Adams replied. "The bald fellow looked like the older of the two." Ben thought about this. The bald man had to be John Locke. He had a pretty good idea who his companion was, and if he was right was sure he'd be fit to be tied by now. Why he hadn't just brought Locke to them was a puzzle But Ben wasn't too worried about it. Kelvin was known for his unconventional methods. "Thank you. You've done well" Ben said, dismissing the guards. As soon as they left he went to deal with the new prisoners, stopping to get Tom and Juliet on the way.

In his cell Kelvin sat and stewed. How dare they leave him in here like this. He looked up at the sound of a key in the lock. "On your feet." a voice said. Kelvin stood and glared in its general direction. Danny Pickett stepped into the room. "Well, it's about time." Kelvin said. "Did I say you could speak?" Pickett growled. "Danny, for God's sake it's me, Kelvin. You can cut the tough guy crap." You never were any good at it he added silently to himself. Kelvin knew the other man had just lost his wife but he still felt like slugging him. Pickett looked more closely at Kelvin. "Would you untie me already?" Kelvin growled. Pickett did so. "I didn't recognize you right away." he said. "Why the hell were you skulking around in the jungle? You should have brought your prisoner straight here." Kelvin rubbed his wrists. They were slightly red and raw from being tied. "Don't tell me what I should do or how to do my job. I was a spook for over ten years. I know what I'm doing." Pickett had a slightly different opinion but knew better than to voice it. "I'm sorry about Colleen." Kelvin said, softening his tone a bit. "I can only imagine how hard it is to lose someone like that." Pickett's hands were balled into fists. "They'll pay for what they did to her." he said. He gestured for Kelvin to follow him and they left the cell. Kelvin was very glad to get out of there. He hoped Locke was okay.

Chapter 4

In a nearby holding room Locke sat on the bunk pondering what had happened. Part of him was angry for trusting Joe (if that really was his name) and going along with his plan. Another part was glad he hadn't brought anyone else along to get caught. He also wondered if it could have been a set up. There was a slight possibility but it wasn't that likely. Joe had seemed just as surprised as he was to see the Others there with guns pointed at them. And he had been taken prisoner too. Locke didn't like to think that he could have been that gullible to be tricked and used again. Just then there was a sound at the door. Locke peered into the darkness. Two men stood silhouetted in the doorway. Locke's eyes widened as he recognized them as the man he had known as Henry Gale and the leader of the group he, Jack, and Sawyer had met in the jungle, now without his beard. “Hello, John” Ben said. “I can see you're surprised to see me.” That was an understatement if Locke had ever heard one. Ben stepped forward. “Allow me to properly introduce myself. My name is Benjamin Linus.” He smiled at Locke. “I'm sorry I had to deceive you before.” Locke looked at Ben, speechless for a moment. “What happened to Joe, the man I was captured with? “ he asked “And where are Jack, Kate, and Sawyer?” Locke's shock had turned to anger and outrage. Ben smiled. “They're all fine. There's nothing you can do for them right now anyway.” He turned to Tom. “Take Mr. Locke to more permanent quarters. I'll be back to talk to him more later.” Ben turned and left. Locke stared at the man that remained, Tom Ben had called him. He was still trying to process what he had just learned. “Henry Gale” was really named Ben and it seemed he was in charge of the Others. (this group at least.) Locke wondered who the “Him” he had been so afraid of was and if that had been another lie. He looked at Tom. “Where's your beard?” he asked. Tom smiled and chuckled softly. “We don't need the disguises anymore. At least around here.” Locke looked puzzled. “Disguises?” “Didn't your friends tell you about that? They knew my beard was fake when we caught them on the dock.” Tom replied. “No they didn't.” Locke replied. He wondered what else he had been kept in the dark about. He had continually told Jack that keeping secrets was dangerous, but would the doctor listen to him? No way. “We'd better get going.” Tom said. Ben wanted you moved right away.” Locke looked at him. “And if I refuse to go?” Tom took several steps into the room. “That's your choice, but you'll only be making things more difficult for yourself. I don't want to have to use force but I will if necessary.” Locke continued to look at Tom. He kept his face carefully devoid of emotion. Inside he was fuming. How dare they threaten him like this. “I guess I don't have much choice, do I?” he said. Locke didn't particularly relish the thought of being kept prisoner, but he liked the alternative even less. “You made the smart choice.” Tom said. Locke stood and Tom led him from the room. “Can you tell me where you're taking me?” Locke asked. “You'll see when you get there.” Tom replied. They walked up to a large steel door. Tom input a code and it opened with a beep and a hiss. “After you.” They stepped into a nondescript entry hall with a flight of stairs at the end of it. Tom led Locke down the stairs into a steel and concrete tunnel. They followed its twists and turns until they came to another door. Tom input another code and the door hissed open revealing another set of stairs. “We're almost there.” Tom said as he led Locke up the stairs. They stepped out into a steel hallway. Tom led Locke partway down the hallway to another door. He opened it and motioned for Locke to go inside. The room was medium sized and furnished somewhat as the living quarters in the swan hatch had been. There was a single bed, a table and two chairs, a small love seat, and a TV set. Another door opened into what appeared to be bathroom facilities. Locke looked around curiously. “Ben will be back to talk to you soon.” Tom said “And someone will be around with food in the morning.” Locke nodded. “You're sure my friends haven't been harmed?” He asked. “They're fine.” Tom replied. He left and the door hissed closed behind him. Locke looked around the room again. There was a pitcher of water and a bowl of fruit on the table. Locke went over and picked up a mango. How dare they keep him and his friends prisoner. No matter how nice the surroundings captivity was still captivity. Angrily Locke threw the mango at the wall. It bounced off and hit the floor with a dull thud. He looked at the bowl and thought about picking up another fruit, but his anger had subsided as quickly as it had come. Locke left the table and walked over to the TV. What possible channels could they get out here? He pressed the power button and the set came to life. As expected there was nothing but static. Locke thumbed the power off and went to sit on the couch. He wished the Others had thought to leave some reading material.

In an observation room similar to the one by Jack's cell Ben and Kelvin stood watching Locke. “He looks like a caged animal.” Ben said as he watched. “I don't blame him.” Kelvin replied. “I'd be acting the same way if someone locked me in a room like that with no explanation.” He turned to Ben. “Let me talk to him. I owe him that.” This surprised Ben. “You owe him? What do you mean?” Kelvin turned to the smaller man. “In the time I was undercover I got to like John. I brought him here. I feel I at least owe him some kind of explanation.” Ben didn't seem to agree. “You were doing your job. Nothing more. You don't owe him anything.” Kelvin's jaw tightened at Ben's statements. “I still want to talk to him. I won't tell him anything about what you have planned.” Ben considered this. His hands were tingling again. Somewhat absently he rubbed them as he stared into Locke's cell. “I guess it would be okay if you spoke to him.” Ben flexed the fingers on his right hand. “You okay? “ Kelvin asked, seeing this. “Huh? I'm fine.” Kelvin wasn't completely sure about that. “I won't be too long talking to John.” he said as he turned to go. Ben nodded. “Just don't tell him anything.”

Locke was pacing frustratedly in his room. He hated being a captive. He hated the lack of information even more. He turned at the sound of someone at the door. “Are you finally going to let me out of here?” he said hopefully. “Unfortunately I can't.” Kelvin said as he entered the room. Locke looked at his visitor with surprise. It was Joe O'Neill but he was dressed differently and not wearing glasses. “I owe you an apology John.” he said. “My real name isn't Joe O'Neill as you've probably gathered by now. I'm Kelvin Inman. I was sent to your camp to bring you here.” Locke listened to this with a growing sense of shock and betrayal. The name also got his attention. “Your name is Kelvin? Like the Kelvin who was in the hatch with Desmond?” Kelvin nodded. “That's me.” Locke stared at him. “Desmond said Kelvin was dead.” Kelvin chuckled softly. “He thought I was. You should have seen the look on his face when I ran into him in the jungle several days ago. He really thought he had killed me.” Locke's hands had clenched into fists. “You tricked me.” he said angrily. “I'm sorry. Really I am.” Kelvin answered. “I never meant for you to be harmed, and I still don't want that to happen.” He paused. “You'll understand more once you've been here for a while.” Locke stood. “Why did you pick me?” He asked. “Is it because I'm easily coerced? An easy mark?” He couldn't hide the bitterness in his voice, nor did he want to. Kelvin shook his head. “It wasn't that at all. I wish I could tell you the real reason but I can't.” Locke listened to this with a “hogwash” look on his face. “I know you probably want to punch me and I don't blame you.” Kelvin said. “I really am sorry and I hope you'll come to understand why this was necessary.” Locke glared at him and said nothing.

Chapter 5

“Where the bloody hell are you taking us?” Desmond asked as he walked along. His voice was muffled by the burlap bag over his head. “Shut your mouth and keep walking.” One of the guards said. He prodded Desmond roughly in the back to keep moving. Desmond wanted to fight back in some way but was hindered by his bound hands and the fact he couldn't see anything. “I just wanted to know where we're going.” He said softly. “You'll find out soon enough.” the guard said. “Don't waste your time talking with them. It won't do any good.” Danielle told Desmond. She cried out when the guard shoved her. “Frenchie's right. The less both of you say the better.” Desmond felt anger rising inside of him. Who gave these Others the right to treat people this way? They continued on in silence until the guard yanked roughly on their arms and said “We're here.” Desmond heard a door being unlocked and felt himself being pushed inside a room. The bag was pulled off his head and the door slammed shut. He assumed the same was being done to Danielle. In the faint light that permeated the room he could make out a cot and a chair. Hopefully he wouldn't be kept in here for too long. There didn't appear to be any bugs, thankfully and the guards were gone. Desmond's back still hurt from where they had prodded him. Dejected, he sat on the cot and thought about the strange turn the day had taken. He felt very bad for letting Danielle down. How would they find Alex when they were both prisoners?

Ben stood at the viewing window watching Locke and Kelvin talk. The two men seemed to be in a rather heated discussion. He wondered if he should have let the former CIA agent go in there. Before he could give this any more thought Tom came into the room. "We've got a "situation" on our hands." he told Ben. "Our second security group picked up two more people in the jungle not far from here." This got Ben's interest. "I don't think they are part of the group of plane crash survivors." Tom continued. "Then who are they?" Ben asked. Tom shrugged. "They're a French woman and a Scottish man. That's all we know right now." This intrigued Ben even more. Who could these people be? He had an idea about the man but couldn't confirm it until he had a name or some other info. "Have they been taken to the holding cells?" he asked. "They have." Tom replied. "Good." Ben said. "Go and talk to them. Find out what you can about them." Tom nodded and left the room. Ben continued thinking about the new captives. How had they found their way as close to the camp as they did? Had they just stumbled upon it or did they know where they were going? He would have to have a word with Kelvin when he had a moment. Sighing Ben turned back to the viewing window. Things were fast becoming complicated.

Chapter 6

A few moments later Tom walked into the building where the new captives were held. He thought about what Ben had told him to do. He was always ordering him to do something. Perhaps that wouldn't be going on for much longer. Tom wondered how long Ben could keep his diagnosis to himself. (and the couple other people like him and Juliet who knew about it) Ben was the type who would rather die than show weakness. He was hiding the physical effects of the tumor well, but Tom could see the echoes of pain in his eyes and the way his hands shook sometimes. Pushing concern for his friend to the back of his mind Tom entered the building. He walked down the main hallway and stopped at a door marked with the designation 1A. He keyed in his access code and the lock disengaged. He stepped in the small room, closing the door behind him. Desmond sat sullenly on the small cot. He looked up when Tom entered. "Have you come to let me out of here, brutha?" he asked. Tom chuckled. "That's a good one." he looked at Desmond. "What's your name?" Desmond looked at him warily. He hesitated for several moments, then spoke. "I'm Desmond. Who are you?" Tom looked at him somewhat menacingly. "My name is Tom. That's all you need to know at present." He hoped Desmond wouldn't give him any trouble. “Where did you come from?” he asked. “Were you on flight 815?” Desmond wondered how honest he should be about that. “No. I bloody wasn't.” He replied. “My boat crashed on this island three years ago.” This got Tom's attention. He thought about the boat the survivors had used to get to this side of the island. The boat Colleen had been shot on. “Would your boat happen to have been a sailboat?” he asked. “Aye. That it was.” Desmond replied. “I was sailing in a race around the world when I crashed here.” So it was his boat. “What were you and your lady friend doing on this part of the island?” Desmond looked at Tom. “We were out hiking.” he lied. “We got a wee bit lost.” Honestly, he added “I didn't know there were parts of the island I was supposed to stay away from.” Desmond hoped Tom believed him. As he sat staring at his captor images came into his mind. Desmond felt confused. He had been having these flashes of insight ever since the hatch explosion. “Regardless of that, you were still poking around where you didn't belong.” Tom was saying. “I think you have more serious things than me to worry about, brutha.” Desmond said. “What the hell do you mean?” Tom demanded to know. “Is one of your friends a slim bloke, a little shorter than you with spiky brown hair?” Tom nodded warily. “Yes.” Desmond looked at him. “He has something physically wrong with him. Something serious that will eventually kill him.” From Tom's poorly hidden surprise Desmond knew he was right. “How do you know this?” Tom asked. “I don't bloody know, brutha.” Desmond answered. “ I just know things somehow.” This disturbed Tom more than he cared to admit. Ben would definitely want to be informed. How could this man have known about the tumor? Tom wouldn't have put it past the sentries to be loose lipped but they didn't know about it to tell anyone. Ben had only told him and Juliet, and that had been after a lot of coaxing on their part. To Tom's knowledge Desmond hadn't been in the medical building so he couldn't have seen the x-rays as Jack had. “What else do you know?” he asked Desmond. “Not a whole lot more. The problem is in his back.” he paused. “It's a good thing you have Jack here, yeah.”Tom looked at the Scotsman. “Someone will take you to more permanent quarters in the morning.” He turned and left the room, wanting to talk to Ben. Left alone, Desmond pondered what had just transpired.

In the Hydra station Locke and Kelvin stood face to face in Locke's cell. "You used me." Locke said. The pain and hurt was clearly evident in his voice. "It was necessary." Kelvin replied. Locke glared at him. He was only several inches shorter than the former CIA operative and could almost look at him eye to eye. "You'll thank me eventually." Kelvin said. "I doubt it." Locke felt like slugging the other man but didn't know what good it would do. Kelvin stepped back towards the door. "I knew you wouldn't be happy but I thought you deserved an explanation." He didn't want to get involved in a punch up either. He knew he could take Locke if it came down to it, but really hoped it wouldn't. “I'll be sure you're treated well.” He said. “Provided you cooperate.” The older man's eyes continued boring holes into him.

"Cooperate with what?" Locke asked. "You'll find out in time." Kelvin turned and left, locking the door behind him. Locke stared after him, still seething inside. How could he have been so gullible that he got tricked again? He thought back to a time a few years ago when everything had been simpler and clearer.

Chapter 7

John Locke whistled contentedly as he crossed the parking lot of Raley's Supermarket . His arms were loaded with grocery bags containing the week's shopping. As he approached his truck he heard a ripping sound as one of the bags gave way. Helen had always told him to double bag. This is what he got for not heeding that advice this time. Helen. The thought of her was like a knife in his heart. John cursed sharply as cans and bottles spilled onto the blacktop in front of him. He set the remaining bag down and began gathering his wayward groceries. "They don't make brown bags like they used to." a voice said. John looked up. A solidly built woman of around his age was helping pick up the spilled cans. She was wearing jeans and a t-shirt and had blunt cut chin length hair. "I hate when this happens." she said smiling. "My name's Jan." She helped John put the salvaged food items in the back of his truck. "John Locke." They shook hands. "Thanks for your help." Jan smiled. "My pleasure." They were joined by a well built man in jeans and a plaid shirt. "This is my husband Mike." Jan said. "Pleased to meet you." Mike looked at John. "You from around here?" John nodded. "I live in Tustin." "Nice area." Mike agreed. "We live up in the valley not too far from here." John nodded. "Don't get out that way much. It's beautiful country though." "It certainly is." Jan agreed. She looked at the lettering on the side of John's truck, "Welcome Home home inspection service, John Locke owner" “You're a home inspector?” She asked. “Yes.” John replied. “I'm kind of on sabbatical right now.” Jan nodded. “Mike and I are farmers of a sort.” Mike smiled in agreement. “Sustainable agriculture. We believe in being environmentally responsible and giving back to the land.” He paused. “Do you like to hunt, John?” Locke set the cans he was holding in the bed of his truck. “Sometimes. I haven't gone lately.” Mike smiled. “Like minded individuals are always welcome to join us. If you'd ever like a weekend away from the city we'd love to have you.” He paused. “The hunting and fishing is great.” He took out a small pad of paper from his pocket and wrote their address on it. Below that he drew a small map. “You shouldn't have any trouble finding the place.” he said handing the paper to John. “We're just off I-80.” Locke looked at the paper in his hands. Big Sky Farm. A weekend in the country did sound pleasant. “I'll have to think about that. See when I'm free.” Both Mike and Jan smiled at him. “we'll look forward to it. It was a pleasure meeting you, John.” They shook hands. “It was good meeting you.” They walked over to their truck and John got in his. He looked at the paper again. He would definitely have to think about this.

Several weeks later John Locke drove peacefully down I-80. It was a beautiful sunny day, traffic was reasonably light, and Dire Straits blasted on the CD player. Tapping his fingers on the steering wheel in time to “The walk of life” John thought about what he was doing. These people were practically strangers. Still, the invitation had seemed too good to pass up. John needed to get away for a while, sort things out. A short time later he came to the turn indicated on the map. Turning the radio down a bit he pulled onto a gravel road that seemingly led to nowhere.

Locke drove down this road wondering if he was going the right direction. At the end he came to an unmarked driveway. Taking a deep breath he turned down it. On either side of the groomed dirt and gravel were lush green trees going back as far as he could see. As he continued on verdant fields and a number of buildings became visible. Locke pulled into the circular parking area and took a good look at his surroundings. He turned off the engine and straightened his cap. Big Sky farm appeared to be quite an operation. He stepped out of the truck and reached for his bag. "Stop right there." a voice said. Locke saw two large men approaching. They didn't look happy to see him. "What are you doing here?" one of them asked. "My name is John Locke. Mike and Jan invited me." Locke said. "Pete, Tom it's alright. Mr. Locke is our guest." Mike said as he walked up to them. Locke was very glad to see him. "I'm glad you decided to come." He said as he led Locke to the house. "Sorry about the welcoming committee. We can't be too careful around here." Locke nodded. "I understand completely." He did, mostly. Part of him was curious though. Why did an organic farm need such tight security? He didn't think it was his place to ask quite yet.

They walked into the main complex. Locke was surprised to see a good number of people around. "We usually have around fifteen or twenty people here." Mike said. He nodded at several women who passed them carrying baskets of apples. "You just have to see the orchard. It's beautiful this time of year." Mike took Locke's bag to a room in the big, rambling house then showed him around the grounds. John marveled at how peaceful and organized everything seemed . "What is that structure for?" he asked indicating a small wood and straw enclosure about the size of a tepee. "That's our sweat lodge." Mike explained."Anyone who wants to can go in there and meditate, commune with nature." This intrigued John. He wondered about trying it himself .That evening he sat at a long table with everyone else there sharing a meal of fried free range chicken, potato salad, fresh vegetables, corn bread, and fruits from the orchard. He had never felt more peaceful.

In his comfortably appointed cell, Locke felt anything but peaceful. He went to the table and poured himself a glass of water. Picking up the glass he hesitated. It looked like water and smelled like water, but what if it had something in it? He wasn't sure if he could tell if any drugs had been added, but it didn't hurt to be extra careful.

In another building Tom was having a heated discussion with Ben. "There's something about this Desmond. He knows things..." Ben looked at Tom. "I'm sure it's just coincidence."

"How can you say that? He knew about your tumor. How in the hell would he have known about that?" Ben didn't have a good answer for him. "That is a puzzle." He pondered this for a few moments. How could this man have known what he did? Ben wondered what else he "just knew". He also wondered about something else. "You said his name is Desmond?" Tom nodded. "That's what he told me." Kelvin had mentioned living in the Swan hatch with a man named Desmond that he had found washed up on the beach. It wouldn't be that strange if this was the same man. He hadn't been in the Swan when Ben was there, but that didn't mean he wasn't on the island at that time. He would have to ask Kelvin about that, among other things. "What should we do about our "guests"?" Tom asked. "Nothing right now. We need to get more information." he thought for a moment."I'd also like to find out more about this Desmond's "abilities" if he really has any." Tom looked at Ben. "You want him moved to the cages in the morning?" Ben shook his head. "Not yet. I have something else in mind for him." Tom wondered what that could be but knew better than to question Ben about it. The two men stood in companionable silence thinking about what they would have to do in the morning.

Locke lay on the narrow bed in his "quarters" and tried to sleep. His mind kept going over the events of the day and things that had happened in his past. Taking some slow, deep breaths he began a relaxation exercise he had learned while he was living at Big Sky farm. Starting at his toes he concentrated on each body part, imagining cool blue light flowing over him. He tensed and relaxed each group of muscles. Closing his eyes, Locke attempted to clear his mind.

Chapter 8

The smell of burning fragrant wood was all around him. Locke tossed a bunch of sage and meditation herbs onto the fire. Soon those scents mingled with the others, making him feel slightly dizzy and heady.The rough walls of the sweat lodge seemed very close around him. Locke looked at the diffuse light coming through chinks in the wood and straw and forced himself to relax. Wearing only a pair of cotton pants Locke sat cross legged on the straw covered floor. He picked up a small bowl from the floor next to him and looked inside contemplating its contents. Mike had said the mixture would help facilitate meditation but hadn't told him exactly what it was. Locke had never tried any drugs and had no experience with hallucinogens. He was somewhat leery about trying this but didn't want to admit it. Locke cautiously dipped his fingers into the bowl and scooped up a small amount of the thick paste. It was gray in color and smelled like a mixture of herbal tea and the poultice his foster mother had put on his chest when he had a cold as a little boy. He looked toward the door of the lodge. Mike was sitting outside in case there was a problem. The thought of that was both comforting and disquieting to Locke. If going in the sweat lodge was so safe as he had been told, why did someone need to keep watch? Taking a deep breath Locke put the dab of paste in his mouth and swallowed. It tasted slightly bitter and at the same time somewhat salty. He set the bowl down and put several small pieces of wood on the fire. Scents of fragrant smoke and herbs were completely permeating the lodge now. Locke sat back and waited for something to happen. He didn't feel any different yet. With more interest than usual he watched the flames dance around the burning wood. The lodge felt somewhat bigger too. Looking around he confirmed that feeling. The walls were definitely farther apart. For some reason that didn't seem strange to him. The roof seemed higher too. A tendril of smoke curled up, reaching for the tiny opening at the top. Locke followed it with his eyes, mesmerized. There was a sound of chanting just in the range of his hearing. A wolf howled. Locke looked toward the doorway, now much farther then when he had entered. A gray and white wolf sat looking back at him. He gasped. The wolf turned and slipped out the entrance opening. Locke stood unsteadily and took a step toward it. The light seemed brighter around him. Looking for the wolf he saw that he was standing outside. The wolf turned its head and looked at him as if to say “follow me.”, then padded off into the woods. Locke stumbled after it, not concerned about his bare feet or the fact that he didn't know where he was or how he'd gotten there. The wolf led him to a clearing where there was a circle of stones. A fire pit sat at its center. A low,flat stone held a knife, a diamond ring, and a stack of money. The cloth these things rested upon had red stains that could have been blood. “What's going on?” Locke asked not caring that he wouldn't get an answer. “Where am I? What is all this?” A figure stepped out of the shadows. It was Helen. “You have to learn to let go, John.” she said. “Helen? What the...” Locke stared in shock as another figure appeared. “You need to toughen up if you want to find your path.” Anthony Cooper told him. “What the hell is going on here?” Locke said. His emotions were alternating shock and anger. “You wanted guidance from the Earth, from the Spirit.” Helen said. “Your anger is holding you down. Release it.” Locke was angry now. “How dare you tell me what to do. You walked out on me. You hurt me. I can't just forget that happened.” Helen looked at him. “You have to move on, John. Helen made her choice. You can't stay bitter forever.” Anthony stepped forward. “You took the first step by giving me your forgiveness at my “funeral”. You need to take an even bigger step and move on. You are meant for much more than you know.” Locke looked at him. “I never wanted your money. I just wanted your love. I wanted a family. A real family.” Anthony looked at him. “Anthony could never give you that. Don't blame yourself though, that's all his failing. It's nothing about you.” he paused. “You have a family here at Big sky farm. Embrace them. Embrace your destiny. You are a hunter and a protector. You have a purpose.” The wolf howled again. “Unburden yourself” Helen said. “How?” Locke asked. “Those items before you are symbols of what's holding you back. Destroy them to free yourself.” Locke tentatively picked up the ring. He looked at it then threw it in the fire. Helen disappeared. He turned to Anthony. “Why the two of you as my guides?” Anthony shrugged. “Who's to say how the unconscious mind works.” Locke picked up the money and tossed it in the flames. He glanced back as Anthony disappeared. He picked up the knife and put it on his belt.“How will I find my way?” he asked the empty forest. “Raise your eyes and look to the north.” a voice said. He did and saw a beautiful white light and felt a sense of peace and contentment. The glow became so bright he had to shield his eyes. When he opened them again he was sitting in the sweat lodge. The smoke was thick and he began to cough. It seemed very dark and close inside. Getting to his feet Locke felt for the entrance and stumbled out. He took in big lung fulls of the clear air and slumped to his knees as a wave of dizziness came over him.

His eyes were watering and it felt like his throat was coated in flannel. Locke doubled over coughing and retching. "John just take some deep breaths." Mike was by his side, concerned. Locke slowly sat up. His throat still felt scratchy from the smoke he had inhaled but he was feeling more clear headed. He looked down at his feet. How could they have gotten so dirty just sitting in the sweat lodge? And how did he get the small scratches on his upper body? Scratches that looked like they had come from making his way through the brambles and hanging branches in the woods. Mike would have said something if he had come out of the lodge earlier. "Did you see anything?" Mike asked. "Not everyone has a vision their first time in the lodge." Locke thought about what to say. "I saw a circle of stones in the forest and a wolf." He conveniently left out the part about his father and Helen. Mike looked interested in what he was saying. "Wolves often appear as avatars for our spirit guides. What did your guide tell you?" Locke hesitated. "It said that I'm a hunter and that I need to put my past behind me." Mike looked at him. "That's good advice John." he smiled. "A lot of the people we have living here came to find something. What did you come to find?" Locke looked at him. "Myself ." he replied. "Family. Somewhere I belong." Mike clapped him on the shoulder. You've come to the right place." Locke hoped he was right. He felt at home there.
Lying on the bed in his cell Locke wondered if he'd ever feel at home again.

Chapter 9

Ben was sitting in a room a ways away from where the prisoners were housed when Kelvin arrived. He was glad to see the big man as he had a number of questions for him. "What happened to your former hatch mate Desmond?" he began without preamble. Kelvin looked at him. "As far a I know he's still on the island." That wasn't quite the response Ben wanted. "You haven't seen him recently have you?" Kelvin was puzzled and slightly worried by this line of questioning."Would it matter if I had?" Ben's eyes narrowed. "You trust me don't you?" Kelvin nodded warily. "Yes." Ben folded his hands on the table in front of him. "If you trust me then give me a straight answer. Have you seen Desmond recently?" Kelvin wondered why Ben needed to know that so badly. "I saw him the day before I arrived in the beach camp." He looked at Ben. "Why are you so concerned about Desmond?" Ben's face turned serious. "Our perimeter guards apprehended a man and a woman lurking near here today. Tom talked to the man and found out his name is Desmond and he arrived on this island three years ago." Kelvin felt a chill go through him. "You can't think I had anything to do with him being here." Ben looked at him calmly. "I'm Not sure what to think. Did you tell him anything?" Kelvin looked almost offended by this. "Of course not. I never told him where I was going or why. I told him to go back to the beach camp. It's just like him not to listen." Ben looked skeptical. "He was with a woman?" Kelvin asked. "Yes." Ben said. "Juliet talked to her. Her name is Danielle Rousseau and she and Desmond were looking for her daughter." Ben kept his face carefully neutral as he said this. Inside, it bothered him more than he cared to admit. Sixteen years ago part of their group had taken a newborn infant from a young French woman that had crashed on the island. Ben had raised that child as his own daughter. He was sure Danielle was the girl's biological mother. (a blood test would be given to make sure, but he knew what the results would be.) The thought of losing Alex caused him almost as much concern as his tumor did. “I think it's actually a good thing those two were caught.” Kelvin was saying. “I made a mistake letting Desmond go in the first place. This way he can't talk to anyone else.” Ben looked at him. “How do you know he hasn't talked to someone already? You don't know what he did after you left him.” Kelvin looked back at Ben. “That's true. I don't know what he did. It doesn't matter though. He didn't know anything of importance to tell. I made sure of that.” Ben folded his hands. “I surely hope you're right about that.” Kelvin's hands folded into loose fists on his lap. “I know how to do my job.” he paused. “All possible leaks are stopped so there's nothing to be concerned about.” He looked at Ben, managing to hide his irritation. “Is there anything else?” Ben shook his head. “That's all for now.” Kelvin left and went to his quarters. It was getting late and he was glad of the chance to rest. Ben sat alone in the small room thinking about what would need to be done next. Kelvin was probably right about there being nothing to worry about. At least from Desmond. Rousseau was a different story. Ben had no intention of giving up his daughter.