 
Coincidence

Right Place Wrong Time

© Copyright 2017 by Terry Aspinall

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means electronic, mechanical, photographic (photocopying) recording, or otherwise without prior permission in writing from the author.

ISBN: 9781370376025

Published by Terry Aspinall

Smashwords Edition

This book is available in E-book format at most online retailers.

It is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the work of this author.
TABLE OF CONTENT

Copyright

Chapter 1 Sunday 14th June 2015.

Chapter 2 Sunday 14th June 2015.

Chapter 3 Monday 22nd June 2015.

Chapter 4 Saturday 5th July 1980.

Chapter 5 Saturday 23rd August 2008.

Chapter 6 Wednesday 15th September 2010.

Chapter 7 Thames House, Westminster London.

Chapter 8 Wednesday 15th September 2010.

Chapter 9 Wednesday 1st June 2011.

Chapter 10 Thursday 8th December 2013.

Chapter 11 September 2014.

Chapter 12 Thursday 5th February 2015.

Chapter 13 Sunday 5th April 2015.

Chapter 14 Sunday 14th June 2015.

Chapter 15 Saturday 20th June 2015.

Chapter 16 Monday 22nd June 2015.

Chapter 17 Tuesday 21st July 2015.

Chapter 18 Wednesday 22nd July 2015.

Chapter 19 Michael Darcy.

Chapter 20 Friday 22nd July 2015.

Chapter 21 Raymond Foster - Clive Manning.

Chapter 22 Tuesday 4th August 2015.

Chapter 23 Saturday 8th August 2015.

Other books by this Author

http://www.terryaspinall.com
Chapter1

No.13 Barnaby Street Norwich.

7:16 pm. Sunday 14th June 2015.

For a split second, there was a slight movement under Dave Slater's closed right eyelid. Followed by a brief flicker, after which both eyes slowly opened and blinked a couple of times, trying to focus and accustom them to the poor light. Although the deadly silence within the room, helped give it an eerie feeling.

Immediately he experienced a striking pain to the back of his head. His first response was to reach up, to feel and explore the area from where the pain was coming.

As he tried to move his right arm that was pinned under his body, a second pain suddenly informed him that he had further areas to investigate.

Without moving his head, he looked around trying to work out where he was, and to what might have happened. A couple of glances, and he concluded that he was lying on the floor of a large bedroom. Which left him bewilder as to his location, and why he was there.

To confuse him further, his brain was playing tricks. As he tried to remember what incident had taken place and left him in the predicament and unknown location he found himself.

Somehow, he managed to release his right arm, and slowly moved it up to feel the back of his head. Upon contact it felt wet and sticky, informing him that it was an open wound. Just touching the area was an effort that increased the pain level dramatically, informing him to stop any further exploration immediately.

Slowly he started to roll his body over into a face down position, to try and get up from the floor and onto his feet. At first, he was a little wobbly with nothing to hold onto as he attempted to stand up. Feeling dizzy he reached out and placed the palm of his left hand against a wall next to him, to help steady his balance. Although the light level in the room was low, it allowed him to see a door on the far side of the room. Slowly he made his way towards it, wondering what surprises might lay ahead.

He still had no idea where he was or what had happened, although his brain was continually working overtime trying to remember any snippet of information that might give him a clue.

Once through the door he slowly made his way towards the stairs, and leaning against the wall, he made his way down to what he hoped was a way out of the building.

Lady luck was with him as he reached what turned out to be the ground floor, and in front of him was a door. He wasted no time in opening it and taking a deep breath of the fresh air that greeted him.

A split second later he was almost blinded by a brilliant light that was directed on to his face. Followed by a loud voice ordering him to,

"Freeze, raise your hands."

An order that at first confused him. Although he quickly made up his mind that he was not going to disobey, as he had no idea what was happening around him, or where he was. The freeze part was easy to comply with, but it was very painful in raising his hands.

His sense of freedom had lasted just a couple seconds. Having walked straight into the arms of several heavily armed Police officers, who looked like they were about to enter the building, using force to batter down the door? At least he had opened it for them, now there was no excuse for them to smash it open. Thinking that it must have saved somebody a repair bill.

One of the Police officers screamed at him,

"What's your name?"

Because he never replied, the question was repeated only this time it was even louder.

"What's your name?" He bellowed.

"Dave, Dave Slater." He mumbled a reply.

Within seconds another officer who by now had advanced closer to him, ordered him to lie on the ground, and to place his hands behind his back. Which turned out to be another painful exercise.

One of the officers knelt beside him, and thrust his knee into his side, causing Dave sever pain. He then grabbed his hands and proceeded to disable him by attaching a set of handcuffs.

While at the same time another Police officer informed him,

"You are wanted for questioning back at the Police station."

"Why the cuffs, what have I supposed to have done." Dave asked.

"You will find out back at the station."

While Dave was being dealt with, other officers had been directed and cautiously entered the building. Within a few minutes one of them returned, and ran over to the officer who looked like he was leading the arrest, and whispered in his ear.

"There's a body in a down stair room, boss". Followed by,

"Looks like he might have been shot by a pistol, probably a nine mill."

"Okay take him back to the station, but nobody talks to him."

"I'll do the talking." The officer ordered.
Chapter 2

Norwich City Police Headquarters.

9:26 pm. Sunday 14th June 2015.

Back at the Norwich City Police station, a Doctor had been called out to check Dave Slater over, and bandage up a small open wound and bump to the back of his head. While the pain in his left arm turned out to be server bruising, caused when his full body weight fell on to it, as he collapsed to the floor.

He then reported his findings to the duty officer,

"He has received a violent blow to the back of his head at some time".

"But he is okay to answer a few questions."

Dave was then ushered into a vacant interview room, and ordered to sit down at a table, with his back to the wall. Which meant that he would be facing a two-way mirror on the opposite wall, allowing his every move to be video recorded as future evidence, if required.

His first thoughts were that with a little luck he might be informed as to why he was helping the Police with their inquirers. Although he knew he had been caught leaving somebody else's house, but he could have been leaving a friend's house. There again, breaking and entering did not usually require an armed offenders squad to arrest and detain suspects into custardy. Being realistic, he had no idea how he was going to talk his way out of the situation.

Detective Chief Inspector Eden and a colleague he introduced as Peter Davidson entered the room, and sat opposite Dave across a table that had long since seen better days. He then dropped a folder on the table to the sound of a dull thud, to be followed by a short period of silence. That was eventually broken by the DCI who after looking at Dave asked,

"Who's been a naughty boy then."

To which Dave remained silent. Then leaning back in his chair, he folded his arms as a minor act of defiance. Believing that the Police had screwed him a couple of years ago, and they were not going to do it to him again. Not if he had anything to do with it.

Up to now his short-term memory was still not responding correctly, although gradually small items and snippets of information were returning. However, his long-term memory could remember almost every minor detail. After all he'd spent nine months in prison apple time to think about what might to be thrown at him once again.

Realising that it did not matter how thick the file was he had a good idea of its contents, although he was not going to let them know.

DCI Eden broke the silence once again by asking,

"Out on bail, are we?"

"What's this all about?" Asked Dave.

"Just answer the question." Eden replied.

Dave could not help himself, and not wanting Eden to have the upper hand replied,

"I was found not guilty, and released."

"Not guilty was never mentioned, that will take another court hearing to decide." Eden was quick to respond.

Eden further inform Dave that as he had been in prison, they already knew a great deal about him, and that if he told them lies they would know. Light heartily adding that if he cooperated, it might be of help to him at a later stage during the court hearing.

Although Dave believed Eden to be correct, it still came as a bit of a shock how blatant and abrupt he was.

It suddenly occurred to him that Eden might be trying to re-open the whole case once again. His thirst to know more, allowed him to ask,

"What's in your folder then, what have you got on me", and sat back to hear what Eden had to say.

"Well let's start with the nine-year jail sentence you were originally awarded, for the murder of your then girlfriend Susan Darcy, on the 5th December 2013."

The remark once again caught Dave off his guard. It was like a bomb had exploded inside his head. Yes, it was true but there was no way that he was going back to prison.

There followed a few minutes silence as nobody said a word.

His memory was jogged further as he looked down at a tattoo on his left forearm. One could see that it was not a so-called professional job, as it lacked colour and sharp lines, looking a little blurred. It was a giveaway that he had spent time in prison. At least he had not had the backs of his fingers tattooed to read 'Love' and 'Hate', as was the custom that many of the other inmates showed around at every opportunity. A type of bragging right, to show around their local watering holes. That they were not somebody to be tangled with, and if upset could hold his own in a brawl. Dave remembered that at the time it was almost compulsory for all the prison inmates. However, on a couple of occasions he had used his muscle to try and refuse their wishes. Although it had led to a couple of bashings from the inmates, during which he gave almost as good as he got. Even though he was heavily out-numbered on each occasion.

Eden started to read out that Susan had been murdered, and that he had been sent to prison, after being found guilty of murdering his then girlfriend Susan Darcy, and repeated that he had been sentenced to nine years.

However, nine months into the sentence his legal team had managed to appeal, and assist in the granting of his freedom. Arguing that there had not been enough evidence to support that he had been at the actual scene, let alone commit the crime. It was also mentioned that although a small amount of DNA had been found on the disease's body. There was nothing to link or connect Dave to the crime.

At the time of the appeal, questions had been asked as to who was financing the case for Dave. A question that had never been fully answered. Leading to a lot of media speculation of secrecy and behind the scenes backhand dealings.

According to the paper work, the evidence against him showed that he had been in the same area where his girlfriend had been killed. In fact, he walked right past the very spot where her body had been found, in a local public park. Although to say that he was in the same park was a bit over the top, as it was also possible to be half a mile away from her, and still be in the park. A bit like being found guilty by association.

However, the Police had recovered her handbag lying nearby that contained her mobile phone, and his last message to her. Along with her purse, that still contained a little cash. That alone assisted the investigation team, informing them that the attack had not been a robbery gone wrong. The phone message was also of interested to them, informing them of his meeting her at that very same spot.

According to the Police who investigated the crime at the time, it was an open and shut case, and in their view Dave had committed the crime. Although at the time nobody could come up with a motive, or place him at the spot at the exact time. Dave had always insisted that he had passed the scene, after she was already dead. Not knowing why, the Police were there, or realising that some body had been killed there.

During the appeal, it was also pointed out that Dave's DNA was not found at the scene of the crime. However, they believed that the last phone message Dave sent to her was deliberate, to try and put the Police off his scent. The same can be said about him sitting on her doorsteps, in full view of people passing bye. It was all an elaborate alibi. As many might have seen him but as for the time, no two people could agree on the exact time. How many people would look at their watch if they saw somebody sitting on a doorstep. Many of the investigation team believed it pointed the finger straight at Dave, as the phone call had been sent from the same area as the crime scene. Well it would be, as he was sitting on the steps of her accommodation at the time, just a couple of minutes up the road.

Dave's first response to the details being read out was,

"So, what's that got to do with you picking me up for questioning."

Eden was swift to reply that they had been tipped off that somebody had broken into the house, and that upon their arrival he had just happened to be leaving the premises, and had walked straight into their arms. Furthermore, they had also found a body in the house. Although they had no idea as to whom it might be. However, it was believed that it was the owner, a Mr Clive Manning.

Trying to direct the attention away from him Dave asked,

"Do you have anybody in the frame for killing Susan?"

"That's confidential."

"Well, have you?"

"Ehh, apart from you, no."

For the first time in the discussion Dave found himself mentioning her name. He had fell in love with Susan after seeing her on and off for about six months. Usually meeting at pubs or on a few occasions at a local restaurant. However, on the night of her murder they had arranged to meet at one of the gateways leading into the park. Sadly, he recalled that her body had been found in the bushes just inside the park, a few meters from the gate that was always open to the public. Upon reflection, he had always blamed himself of agreeing to that location to meet her. Although it had been at her suggestion, being very close to where she was living.

Dave had been heading towards the gate from the other side of the park. By the time, he had the gate in view, Police officers were already at the scene. Although at the time Dave had no idea what was happening. He had no idea that it would soon involve him, and change his life forever.

He could see Susan was not standing by the gate, and so he walked right past the Police, and headed for the terrace house she was renting just up the road. Upon arrival and after knocking on the door for a few minutes, he sat down on the steps to wait for her return. Believing that if she had missed him, she might make her way home.

It was during that time that he tried calling her on his mobile phone, but she never answered. He hastily left a message for her to get back to him as soon as possible. After waiting a further twenty minutes he called it a day, dropping in at the 'Greyhound' local pub for a drink before he headed back to the rented accommodation he used while in London.

Dave had no idea that the Police at the scene had heard the call, not sure what they should do, nobody had answered.

It was the following day, and the reading of the daily newspaper head line that he discovered why the Police had been near the park gate, and that it involved Susan. Although the newspaper article at the time made no mention of her, or further information as to what had happened?

Raising his voice Eden asked,

"What were you doing at the deceased's house?"

Dave was jolted from his silence and leaned over the table and picked up Eden's pen and wrote a phone number on the file cover telling him,

"Here ring that number, and you might be enlightened as to what I was doing at the house."

Once Eden got through, and started chatting Dave watched as the expression on his face gradually changed from a bit of a smirk to that of surprise, and then to a bewildered and humbled look. He did not seem to be able to ask any questions, all he seemed to do was listen. Eventually, he closed his mobile down and looked at Dave for a few moments. Finally, he opened his mouth and spoke,

"You think your bloody smart don't you Slater."

"Why the hell could you not tell me?"

Dave quickly responded,

"Because I'm covered by the official secrets act, and can't talk about it."

Then adding,

"And now, neither can you. So, can I go home now?"

"Yes, but we need to know where you are staying." Adding,

"We will need to speak to you later."

With a smile on his face Dave told him to,

"Use the same phone number to make further contact with me."

With a slight smile Dave pushed his luck further and asked,

"What about a taxi ride home?"

"Working for MI5 and you want me to pay for a taxi ride." Adding,

"I'm sure your boss Mr Jones would love to pay it."

After DCI Eden announced that the interview with Dave was over, he was released from the Police station during the early hours of the morning.

Dave made his way back home to the 'Lodge' in Great Finborough Suffolk.

Even though he was dead tired, he checked the place out before retiring to his bed for a long-awaited rest and hopefully a deep sleep.
Chapter 3

MI5. Thames House Westminster London.

9:18 am. Monday 22th June 2015.

Mr Jones had arranged a meeting with DCI Eden and Dave Slater. Looking for a connection with Dave's involved in two completely different murders.

He had also arranged for Eden to arrive early, in order that he might fill him in on Dave's early history, and of how he came to be working as an MI5 operative. From the start, he made it quite clear that he and others believed him to be a trustworthy person, and good at his job.

Announcing that he and MI5 had been watching Dave for a long time. Knowing that he professed the qualifications they were always on the lookout for. Especially his computer skills, and of being able to crack codes and passwords. Along with writing his own software programs.

"I personally met up with Slater, and recruited him without hesitation. He has served us well, and I hope he will in the future."

"We have employed him as a 'Jack of all Trades', although he is mainly used to clean up crime scenes, bug dwellings, follow suspects and courier drops.
Chapter 4

Great Finborough Suffolk.

4:13 am. Saturday 5th July 1980.

Dave Slater had been born during July 1980. In the quiet Suffolk country village of Great Finborough, a few miles from the town of Stowmarket. An only child to single parent Molly Slater, daughter of a local builder.

His education can best be described as average, although he did stand out in most sports, especially football and swimming.

While attending the local Secondary Modern School, he met up with Lorraine, and after a couple of years she became his very first serious girlfriend. It was a good thing that they were in different classes, otherwise he might not have been able to concentrate on what the teacher was trying to explain to the class.

Upon leaving school he struggled to find and hold down a job, as unemployment in the area was high. He also underwent the stress and emotions of a break up with his first girlfriend, as they set off on completely different paths to obtain adult-hood.

After four years of struggle Dave finally decided to join the Royal Navy. During June 1998, he arrived at 'H.M.S. Raleigh' in the West Country. The training base for all Royal Navy recruits. Once his basic training was over he was given the opportunity to take up a trade apprenticeship. Dave choose the 'Electronic Technician' (ET) course that included maintain, repair and operate a variety of electronic systems associated with guns, missiles, radar, sonar, navigation, combat data, communications and their related information technology, electrical, hydraulic and mechanical systems.

An ET sailor's employment requires them to be adept at operating, monitoring and maintaining equipment in a wide and diverse range of platforms both in a sea going and a shore based environment. As maintainers and operators, ET sailors are required to operate and monitor equipment performance to identify trends, which have the potential to impact on the operational capability of a ship and initiate corrective action when required. Dave thrived on computer work, and stood out from many around him.

Upon completing his training, he was assigned to 'H.M.S. Subdue', and spent a year touring the Mediterranean, on what was known as showing the flag. To the uninitiated it means showing the area that Britain still likes to think it ruled the waves.

During early 2000, Dave was re-assigned to the aircraft carrier 'H.M.S. Illustrious'. One of the largest war ships in the British Navy at that time. He once described it as like moving from a country village to a major city. There was also a change in the area in which he had been sailing, from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean.

By May of the same year, 'H.M.S. Illustrious' had been ordered to Sierra Leone on the west coast of Africa. To assist land forces that the British Government had earlier deployed, promising the United Nations Mission to Sierra Leone, that they would help end a civil war.

'H.M.S. Illustrious' led a Task Group known as 342.1, it was a naval task force comprising of 'H.M.S. Ocean', 'H.M.S. Argyll', 'H.M.S. Iron Duke', 'H.M.S. Chatham', and numerous other Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships, which was all aimed at restoring peace and stability within the country.

On 18th January 2002, President Kabbah declared the eleven-year Sierra Leone Civil War officially over. By most estimates, over 50,000 people had lost their lives during the conflict. Countless more fell victim to the reprehensible and perverse behaviour of the combatants.

Once back into the UK and based at Portsmouth, Dave became friendly with Jenny Wong a W.R.N.S. (Women's Royal Naval Service) working in the dockyard administration. Penny was of Chinese decent and very pretty. She also had a great sense of humour just like Dave.

He used to tease her constantly by referring to her as,

"What Went Wong."

A saying she took in good taste as a joke, knowing the comedian side of him.

Both could not help them-selves and fell head over heels in love. Meeting up at every opportunity, although it depended when and where Dave's ship was in port. Even then he was restricted to a limited number of days he was allowed a shore. As Royal Naval ships must be ready to put to sea at short notice. In other words, only half the crew can be on shore at any one time.

Although when they did meet up, they made the best of the situation, savouring every moment.

At one time, they even talked of planning to get married. However, Dave's constant trips overseas became a major problem. As did the length of service time they had both signed up for. It was felt that they should both purchase their discharge from the Navy together. Although money became a major issue, as both would have to find jobs, and at that time they could not even make up their minds as to where they were going to settle down and live.

During the next few months, they met up regularly whenever Dave was in the area. However, their relationship finally ended after they drifted apart, owing to being separated for longer and longer periods of time.

Five years into his commission, and Dave's time in the Navy was coming to an end. Not wanting to sign up for a further couple of years, he decided to take the bold step and become a civilian once again.

It had been part of Dave's long-term plan to spend a few years in the Police force. Having wanted to understand how a Police officer under takes, and goes about his normal every day work. Long term thinking ahead that maybe one day he would go into business as a Private Investigator.

During July 2003 Dave presented himself at the Ipswich Police Headquarters. Where he under-went a two-year probationary period. During which time, he was taken through a comprehensive and professional programme enabling him to effectively fulfil his role while serving the community.

Based in Ipswich was a great help as he knew the town well, and wasted no time in becoming a member of the 'Armed Offenders Squad'. Although it meant further training, he was doing something he had been wanting to do for a long time. In fact, it was the culmination of a lot of preplanning, learning, and hard work.

Came the day that all service personnel dread, when a pre-organised plan involving fire arms went badly wrong.

Dave's unit had been called out upon reports that a gunman was holed up in a house on one of the town's estates, and threatening to kill two hostages being held within the building. Knowing the building was small, they were prepared to expect there would not be a lot of room to move around once inside.

Upon arrival to the area, they had formed up behind their armoured vehicle as per normal plan. While awaiting the go-ahead order, they used the time to run through their plan of attack. All questions were addressed, and everybody was aware of their role for a successful and safe entry. However, to a certain extent all plans had to be flexible, as the unknown can and will pop its ugly head up sometimes, and bite you hard. It's always easier to defend a position than to attack it. Although their leaders had been trained to seize any opportunity that might presented its self. Their names had been removed from their clothing, in order that the public did not know who they were. Not wanting members of the team or their families being targeted for reprisal attacks. During training Dave had been allocated number three, a number that stuck with him during his entire time with the unit.

On a given order from the Commanding officer handling the situation, the unit moved forward to take up their forced entry position. Once number One was in position about a metre back from the front door. The rest of the unit took up their numbered position, with their left hand on the right shoulder of the officer in front of him. While holding their firearm in their right hand, with the barrel pointed towards the floor. When all was ready another officer carrying a heavy steel door rammer approached to the left of them, and took up a position by the left-hand side of the door. Ready to smash the lock and force the door open. All the officers were wearing a radio and earpiece receiver. Therefore, all the members of the team could hear what was being said by the team, and the Commanding officer.

An order was given to release their left hand from the officer in front of them. This informed the unit that they were all in their correct positions and ready to go. As trained their left hands automatically grabbed hold of the barrel of their firearm, that by now was at shoulder height pointing forward, and awaiting further instructions to advance. Having a lazar fitted to the barrel meant that at least they could see were and onto who they were aiming.

The Commanding officer then informed them that they believed the Gunman to be upstairs in the front bedroom. He then asked if everybody was ready, and all in sequence answered yes, including the door rammer who was the last to respond.

The Commanding officer then preceded a five second countdown.

"Five, Four, Three, Two, One, Go."

The next second there was a loud crash, as the front door bust open, and was flung back leaving it hanging by just one hinge against the wall on the right-hand side. Officer number One took a giant step into the house, just as the sound of a discharged firearm surprised the whole unit.

Officer One was immediately flung backwards to the right of officer Two, having been hit by a twelve-bore shot gun round. Fired from a gunman who was standing on the bottom step of the stairs, about four meters from the front door. It had not been planned, it was the shock and surprise of hearing a very loud bang, as the door was suddenly flung open that caught him off guard. He just dropped the shotgun to waist height and fired.

Number Two heard the gun go off, and within a spit second realised that number One was being flung backwards towards him. To end up on the floor by his right-hand side, allowing the gunman to come into view. Instinct allowed him to immediately pump two rounds into his chest, that flung him backwards onto the stairs.

Shouting into his radio,

"Officer Down, Officer Down."

As number Two was still moving forward he tripped over number One, and ended up on the floor almost on top of him. Although not wounded he had received several timber splinters to his face as the spread of the shot easily covered the narrow width of the hallway.

Dave was third in, also receiving timber splinters, and a few of the lead shot to the right side of his body. At first glance Dave realised that there was the possibility of a blockage being create by the front door. He made it a priority to push his way in, well past the front door. Allowing others behind him to gain entry to the staircase. Although it was no easy task trying to climb the stairs, without standing or tripping on the gunman. Dave used his radio to warn others behind him that number One and Two were lying just inside the door, and a gunman was lying on the bottom of the stairs.

Although two of the team were down, the remainder of the unit kept pushing their way in to the building. They had to secure every room not knowing if there were other gunmen on the premises. The fact that two of the unit were down had to be ignored in case other firearms were pointed at them.

Once the house was secure, and the hostages were found, and lead outside to awaiting ambulances. It was Dave's turn, at least he could walk, while number Two was taken out on a stretcher. Sadly, number One had died within seconds, catching the full force of the shotgun blast in the stomach.

Upon inspection of the gunman, at first it was believed that he had only been hit once, but later it was discovered that he had taken two shots in the very same area of his chest. That was later to become known as the perfect shot.

An enquiry was set up, to see what they might have done wrong, and to educate them for future deployments. While the passing of a colleague caught them all off guard. It had been the second loss the unit had experienced. The first being five years earlier. The Commanding officer hoped and insisted upon his team that it would be their last. Insisting that the unit should dust themselves down, and to get on with their job.

During his time in the Armed Offenders Squad Dave was never ask, ordered or forced to shoot at anybody. Although he was present when others around him were ordered to shoot. Dave's attitude was and would always be that of carrying out superior's orders, no matter what. He realised and under stood that orders had to be obeyed. If not the system breaks down and mayhem takes its place. A situation that makes it easier for criminals to have a field day, and take control of the streets.

If you start to wonder if it's moral, your hesitation might end up with you being killed, or worse still one of your fellow team members. However, what Dave did enjoy was the adrenalin rush that took place every time the Squad was called out.

The way he carried out his orders and treated others around him, made him well liked, and all believed him to be one of best to protect their back.

As his original five-year contract was coming to an end, and having reached his 28th birthday. Dave believed the time was right to hopefully find a wife, and to settle down, into a country life style that Great Finborough still offered.
Chapter 5

Great Finborough Suffolk.

8:00 am. Saturday 23rd August 2008.

The village of Great Finborough in Suffolk still held a lot of memories for Dave, even though his Mother had since passed away. Having been involved in a serious car accident, while he was in the Royal Navy. This was where he wanted to settle down and to re-establish his roots.

Fred Davis an old family friend, had offered Dave the opportunity to purchase a small property, where he could live and hopefully set up his next challenge in life, that of a local Private Investigator.

Although it looked a little sad and run down, Dave was sure that given time and a little money he could make something of it.

Known as the 'Lodge', it was located down a narrow twisting over grown country lane, the type that doesn't allow two cars to pass anywhere along its length. For a stranger not knowing the area it was a nightmare to drive down. Because he would be up against further problems at the other end, as the main gate ahead of him was always kept shut and locked. Creating further problems, as there was no room for a vehicle to turn around. Forcing the driver to reverse all the way back up the lane to the main road, that also resembled a narrow country lane.

The 'Lodge' was perfect for Dave, hoping that it would keep away all unexpected and unwanted visitors. For further security, he liked the six feet high metal clad front gate. Even though it was rusty, having been poorly maintained and neglected over the years. As well as being locked, it was heavily over grown with vegetation on either side. Just what he was looking for?

During his Royal Naval travels, many of his friends had always referred to Suffolk as,

"Sleepy Suffolk."

To which Dave would always reply,

"I'm from Suffolk mate, so you won't hurry me."

Although others, when out of ear shot and under their breath would refer to it as,

"Silly Suffolk."

None of which offended him, after all it was a country-orientated county, and its laid back wide-open spaces attacked many from the busy traffic clogged up main cities. If given the opportunity many would chose the easy-going life style, of quaint country cottages, and wide-open spaces all around them.

However, the 'Lodge' needed a lot of work and elbow grease to help spruce it up from the bombsite it resembled. Wanting it to look presentable to those that might, or were lucky enough to be invited to visit, by invitation only.

However, it would all have to wait, as he needed to concentrate on the setting up and running of his newly registered business, hoping to generate a little money to pay off the mortgage.

To help get the company up and running he undertook any challenge that was offered, be it in Great Finborough or neighbouring Stowmarket. No matter how small or silly the job seemed, he would take it on. In the hope that he might make a name as somebody the locals could trust, and help them with their problems.

He had a couple of favourite saying that he strongly believed and honoured. 'Keep an open mind' which he did, and 'Don't bad mouth anybody', which he also honoured. He also believed that 'People who have had power miss it badly,' and were people to be wary of. While successful people are usually not very happy.

The early work he under took was that of watching people, property and reporting back. Be it for marriage break ups, to none payment of bills. In fact, he was amazed at the amount of people, who wanted to know what others were getting up to.

Having a Police background and knowing the system certainly helped in directing work his way. There was also the old friends network around the area that could help at certain times. However, for him to take advantage, he had to be accepted as a local. Although he had always believed he was a so-called local, forgetting that he had been out of the area for over ten years. He certainly believed that insider knowledge was always a benefit when it came to work.

It was Suffolk folk law that one had to live in a village for about twenty-five years before they were eventually accepted as a local. Probably another twenty-five before they are trusted. However, he also realised that another generation had grown up during his absence from the area, and he had to gain their trust.

To help spread the word further, and run the odd errant for him, Dave eventually conned Fred Davis into taking on the job. After all, living his whole life in the village he knew everybody.

Although, it was known as a sleepy county village, Dave was surprised just how much was going on behind the scenes and close doors. He used to joke that everybody was more interested in what their neighbours were getting up to. This was fine by Dave who willingly took up the challenge, to make a living out of other people's curiosity, and village scandals. Although it must also be noted that Dave tried to keep a personal low profile, not wanting to attract controversial attention. He was happy to just be one of the locals, if it was possible.

Dave used the local pub as a watering hole, although in most cases it was just to keep up with the local gossip. As he had a very good brain for the storage and recovery of knowledge, and that it might help him at some time in the future.

His regular use of the local pub to drum up work was a slow starter. Not a case of people tripping over each other trying to hand him money. However, work eventually started to pick up slowly when some of the locals realised that he was experienced on a computer.

It all started when a fellow drinker asked if he could help him reformat his computer. Dave was only to pleased to help. At least it gave him something to do, and hopefully help keep his brain ticking over, and a little cash coming in.

Dave ended up spending a couple of hours on the computer, and for his trouble he was paid £80.

Once word spread around the pub and village, work started to pick up. At one time, he was earning more money from computer work than from criminal investigation. With all the repair work being under taken at the owner's house that included plenty of cups of tea, a few beers and the occasional meal. It also paved the way for the locals tripping over themselves, to buy him a drink whenever he visited the local pub. That became more frequent during the following months.

Hence his hope of keeping a low profile became just a dream, as he became well known all around the area as the computer man.

He was amazed at the amount of people in the pub who had been conned out of a lot of money at some time, by so called computer scammers.

One of the local drinkers had explained to Dave, that somebody informing him that he had a problem on his computer, after contacting him via E-mail. Explaining to him that after a payment of £400 pounds, he would be able to fix it for him, as he would go directly into his computer. Anyway, the drinker being a little gullible paid up, although believing it to be a lot of money at the time. Panicking a little, he believed that at least his computer would be fixed, or hoping that it would be fixed.

It turned out that a couple of others had also had the same experience. Although, for different amounts of money. One had even handed over £500.

That night Dave went home with the drinker who had originally told him about his problems. Upon arrival, he wasted no time in getting on to the computer. The owner then directed Dave to the E-mail, so he could have a read. It was vital that he could see for himself, as many middle to older age people do not understand computers. It's just shear good luck that they don't get caught out the very first time they log in to go on line.

After Dave had sorted and worked out what had gone on between the computer owner and the scammer. He then checked over the computer, and making a few minor alterations and adjustments, he informed the owner that all was okay. He then asked for permission to use his computer to get in touch with the scammer.

At first the owner was a little hesitant, but finally agreed after Dave had promised to pay for any damage or faults that might arise. Then after being given the okay, Dave looked at the original message from the scammer and E-mailed him. To his amazement within fifteen minutes, he responded. Dave could not believe his luck.

He played the part of a person who knew nothing about computers, and could he help again. The Scammer jumped at it, and a conversation developed, mainly so that Dave could obtain certain information about him. At one time Dave described himself as a useless prick, when it came to computers.

His play-acting worked well, as without realising the scammer was gradually giving Dave more and more information about himself. Probably not even realising what he was doing. Thinking that all his contacts were complete idiots.

Dave continued acting as a complete novice, asking him the most stupid of questions trying to gain his confidence. Working on the assumption that if somebody thinks he knows more than anybody else, it goes straight to his head. Believing that he is the expert and know more than others, they say more and more trying to impress people.

Dave turned the subject onto passwords. To which the scammer was only to please to help. Explaining that a sequence of letters and numbers would be required. Dave persisted and kept saying that he didn't really understand what he was talking about. Repeatedly asking him what it would look like, and eventually asking what the scammers looked like, and what had he used.

Eventually the scammer dropped his guard and sent Dave a few letters. Immediately Dave punched them on his keyboard, and low and behold he was into the scammer's computer. He had struck gold.

"Slack arse, what an idiot." Dave thought.

"Some of these scammers are not that good on their own computers, when it came to their own security."

"They leave themselves wide open for an attack."

"In this case pay back, a dose of their own medicine."

Dave spent a little time looking around the scammer's computer, until he eventually found where he was keeping records of all the payments he had received from dozens and dozens of other victims. Chuckling to himself, he wondered if the scammer was keeping it for tax reasons.

"Surly he's not that dumb." Dave thought.

Then to his amazement he even found a column of the payments that was titled reimbursement. He could not resist the temptation and clicked all and okayed it. Wondering how many people would feel a little happier the following day, when they checked their accounts. As for Dave, he was happy that he had done his good deed for the day, and for free. Mind you he did think of sending the scammer a bill for his service, but thought better of it. Then Dave blocked the scammer from his computer, hoping there would be no reprisal attack on him.

The last thing he did was to show the owner how to set up and use a password. Something he was completely un-aware of. Shutting the computer down, Dave left for home.

Once all had been informed at the Pub the following day, Dave became the hero of the day. Amazingly his computer work picked up, and there was also a slight increase in his Private Investigation work in the area. Had he finally been accepted as a fully-fledged local?

One of the strangest events he was to be involved in happened while he was working on a client's computer at his house. After making a repair he asked the customer to jump on and have a look around. After several minutes of checking, he opened his Face Book page. Scrolling down he came across a friend who had just posted a song 'Time to Say Goodbye'. Sensing that something was wrong he tried to call him on his mobile, but there was no answer. It's a very moving and powerful song, and so he immediately rang the police. Feeling that there was something wrong. As it turned out he had tried to commit suicide, but the police being on the scene quickly managed to save him. Apparently, it was his way of saying goodbye to all his friends.
Chapter 6

Recruitment

Thames House Westminster London.

8:30 am. Wednesday 15th September 2010.

Dave had opened what looked like an ordinary letter, with a London frank on the envelope. He was inquisitive and keen to know whom it was from.

It turned out to be from a Mr Jones, who was asking if Dave would be able to help trace one of his relatives that the Jones family was trying to locate and make contact.

Anxious to get the job, Dave wasted no time in arranging to meet him in a London cafe on Millbank, Westminster, at 11:00 am the following day. Placing the phone down he felt a little relieved, having realised that his diary was showing no previous work booked for the following day. While feeling pleased with himself, as it could lead to more work in the Smoke, as London had earlier been nick named.

Once again looking down at the letter he suddenly noticed that there were no other contact details, not even an address. Even the phone number was a landline, and there was no mobile number. Dave was left hoping he did not want to make further contact if he could not find the cafe, or was running late.

As was normal for Dave he arrived ten minutes early. His way of thinking that if you are killing time before an appointment, better to arrive early and kill the time at the destination. This allowed for any problem that might arise, and hold him up along the way. Something that had been drummed into him during his time in the Royal Navy and Police force.

Having ordered a flat white coffee, he left the serving counter to sit out front in the fresh air. The waitress brought his coffee to the table and placed it in front of him, and hoped he enjoyed it. She then placed another cup opposite him at a space that had been pre-set and walked away.

Dave tried to attract her attention,

"Excuse me." He asked.

Before she had chance to answer, a gentleman was standing by the extra cup of coffee, introducing himself as,

"Mr Jones."

Dave stood up and they both shook hands, and then sat down. Dave had been caught off guard wondering what was happening.

As Mr Jones announced,

"This is my regular haunt, for my daily hit of caffeine." He continued,

"Good to see you made it must have been a bit of a drive."

"Good job I left early, otherwise I might have been late.

"Didn't realise how bad the London traffic was."

"I think it's getting worse Dave. Sorry you don't mind if I call you Dave do you."

"No that's fine." He replied.

"Most ex-service men are always early." Mr Jones nodded his head.

Wondering what to say next Dave asked,

"I suppose you would like to know all about me and how I work?"

'Not really, as I already know all that, been doing my homework, and you have an impressive history and CV." Mr Jones continued,

"Something I and a few others would like to tap into. If you were to agree and let us."

Dave was left a little dumb founded, and for once was lost for words. Finally, nervously asking,

"What about your missing family relation, have you brought any of his details for me to have look at."

"Dave, I'll get straight to the point. I work for the government, and I and my senior executives would like you to come on board and work for us."

"Which one" Dave asked.

Mr Jones leaned a little closer to Dave and in a low voice whispered,

"MI5."

"Wooo, you're getting ahead of me." said Dave.

"That came out of the blue, and was completely unexpected."

Mr Jones started to go into a little more detail, explaining that they had been watching him for a few years, and liked what he had been up to. He felt that all the training he had been through, placed him ahead of many others who would like to work for them. If he was to agree, it would be easy for them to retrain him for what they had in mind.

"They also tell me that you are pretty good on computers."

"Yeah, I get bye."

"I'm told that you are very good at cracking passwords and codes."

"Where did you hear all that." Dave asked.

"Word gets around, and anyway it's our job to know who's doing what, and with whom."

"Tell me about the software you use." Mr Jones asked,

"It's my own design, up to a year ago software only allowed around 15 characters to be cracked, in what's known as list cracking. Been able to extend it out to around 30."

"I call it 'Elephant-ears' because of its long memory, might even be able to better it sometime in future."

"Also, able to encrypt messages that I can hide within a photo file."

"Although it can leave a trail. As long as you are not on anybody's radar you can usually get away with it."

"Ah, Steganography, at least your credentials seem to be in order." Mr Jones responded.

Dave was quick to add,

"What you might be interested in, is a completely new code I'm working on. Using batches of ten numbers and letters, although some are decoys and not being used, but changed daily."

"Just to confuse people, although today it's not individuals who crack codes, its computers and its software."

"But I'll let you know more about that later."

With that Mr Jones invited him back to his office that was only a brief walk away from the cafe.

A deal and plan was devised, allowing Dave to operate in the East Anglian and London areas of the United Kingdom. Not wanting MI5 operatives to cross territories and tread on each other's toes. The agreement also allowed Dave to still operate as a Private Investigator while in Suffolk. It being a good cover for what he would be asked to do for MI5. Mr Jones also liked the idea of 'Slate' as a code name for him.

Later, Dave was introduced to a Mr Smith, who was to be his contact within the MI5 organisation, although Mr Jones would always be there if major problems were to arise. Dave was then informed and shown how they could contact each other.

A message would be placed by either of them in the Guardian newspaper and its online version, in the miscellaneous column. Certain words would be used in the hope that all involved would understand. Although to help, Dave was given a piece of paper explaining different words, and their code meaning. Dave did not need telling that the paper had to be hidden, and if possible destroyed. However, as a safe guard to the untrained eye it read like a small article from a book, with only them understanding what it all meant. Land line phones could be used, but once again care had to be taken. A type of code was to be used, on the understanding that it could be listened to. Mobiles were only to be used as a very last resort, knowing that most were being tapped.

It was also mentioned that an American citizen working for the military had released certain information before he disappeared and, is now believed to be in Russia. He had claimed that the American government was listening and recording almost every single mobile phone around the world. An update of an earlier program known as 'Thin thread' that allowed the Americans to listen in on all their citizens landline phones in the USA. Although it was not legal and kept from the American people. The whole world was now up for grabs.

Mr Jones informed Dave that,

"The whole world is covered with fences."

"To keep half the people in the world from breaking in."

"While others are to keep the other half behind them."

For this reason, all phones were to be treated as if you are being recorded. Be careful what you say. Briefs and debriefs were to take place at the MI5 headquarters. While comings and goings were to be kept to a bare minimum, expecting public CCTV, their enemies, and possibly foreign embassies to be watching who was entering and leaving the building. Finally, Mr Jones wrapped up their discussion by saying,

"The old fashion snail mail is still the safest way to send messages of great importance." adding,

"Although after being read they should be destroyed, and certainly not copied on to a computer."

"At both ends." He insisted.

Mr Jones dropped his guard a little, and would allow any dire emergency to be called in from a public phone box, if the number was stored in his head, and not on a piece of paper stuffed in his wallet. It was also noted that many of the public call boxes, were not being replaced after constant vandalism. Therefore, in certain crime ridden area's they would be hard to find.

Finally, it was arranged that once Dave was set up back home and ready. Mr Smith would spend some time with him, teaching and explaining what was going to be expected of him. Of what he could expect of MI5, and of how to go about certain requests.
Chapter 7

MI5, Thames House. Westminster London.

MI stands for Military Intelligence and the differences between the two organisations MI5 and MI6 is vast. They are answerable to different departments and completely different people. MI5 is answerable to the Home Secretary, and is an indirect confirmation of the organisation's focus on domestic as well as external threats to the country.

While in contrast, MI6 answers to the Foreign Secretary in part due to its exclusive focus on external threats.

The two organisations have their headquarters in different locations. MI5 is based at Thames House. While the offices of the MI6 are located at Vauxhall Cross in London on the south bank of the river Thames. Sometimes referred to as SIS the 'Secret Intelligence Service'.

The budget and operations of the MI6 are understandably cloaked in secrecy. While in comparison, MI5 is relatively more transparent. To fulfil its mandate, MI5 concentrates its focus on several key areas, terrorism, both domestic and foreign that takes top spot on its list of priorities. This is partly due to the rise of global terrorism as a serious challenge to the security of the United Kingdom and its interests globally. To effectively respond to these threats, the organisation spends a large percentage of its budget on non-domestic counter terrorism. The rest of its budget is shared out almost equally between counter espionage and domestic terrorism.

MI5 also works to counter subversion and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

To explain it in layman terms, MI5 is for domestic intelligence, and MI6 is for international intelligence. Put more crudely, MI6 are 'Our' Spies while MI5 is there to catch 'Their' Spies. Then it gets a little more complicated in that MI6 has its own 'Counter Intelligence' section.

'MI5 / MI6' were the original designations given when both organisations came under the War Office, now the Ministry of Defence. Although they're official names were acquired way back during the 1930s.
Chapter 8

Great Finborough Suffolk.

6:30 pm. Wednesday 15th September 2010.

The drive home gave Dave time to think and plan his next move. His brain was already working overtime, hence a couple of times he took a wrong turning. Sadly, his Police training was lacking at that moment in time. The last thing he needed now was to be involved in an accident.

Having taken on board a lot of information from Mr Jones. He was only now realising that he should have asked a lot more questions.

On the advice of Mr Jones, his first plan was to make a few alterations to the 'Lodge' that would suite 'Jonesy' as he had already privately started calling him. Although it was something he had thought about doing earlier, but had put it off as a future project.

However, Dave had also come up with a further idea that Mr Jones was not aware of. Realising that most of his work was going to be undercover and probably illegal. Therefore, he needed to cover his arse in case he found himself without friends, and out on a limb on his own. Un-like being in the Navy and the Police force where you have mates always covering your back.

Dave was secretly planning to carry out a lot more changes and additions than Mr Jones would ever suspect of him.

Although the property looked a little rundown, it suited his long-term plan to be hidden, and not to leave a digital foot print. If possible his aim was to set up a base so he might stay hidden from prying eyes. Something that was becoming almost impossible to achieve, as the world was speeding towards a digital future, or '1984' as he sometimes referred to it.

During the 'Lodge' property hand over, Dave had used John Taylor as an alias name. A name he had seen on a gravestone in the local churchyard. He had also memorised his parent's names just in case he was ever challenged with further ancestral questions. To back him up he had a few business cards made up displaying his name as John Taylor. However, these were only to be used in situations where he did not want people to know who he really was.

He had purchased a second prepaid mobile phone under the same name. Although, he knew the draw backs of a mobile, and of a dozen different ways in which he could be traced and follow by the signals they give out. Therefore, setting himself strict personal rules of when and where to use it. It was not to be used on a regular basis, only in emergencies. After its battery was removed, it was hidden by the back door behind the old washing machine that had seen better days. Hoping that his conversations would not be over heard by others who might be interested in his location. Not that he talked to himself. They were the rules he had set himself, and he rarely backed down on any personal goals.

During the next couple of days, he purchased a third pre-paid phone using a different alias. Once again, upon leaving the shop he removed the battery. This was hidden in the car along with its battery up under the dashboard of his car. A fourth phone was later stored in locker at the Stowmarket railway station, and was only to be used if all else failed, this would be a last resort. Although many of his local calls were made from the phone box at the bottom of the lane on which he lived.

He had always believed that one of the easiest ways of being caught was by a normal Police car stop. He believed if you could present a legal driving licence, and there were no problems with your car. Once the Police officer had checked on his computer, there was a good chance that the officer would let you go.

Although he had a current driving licence, he applied for another one under the name of John Taylor. As an identity, he showed them an electricity bill that was for the farm and under his alias name.

As further insurance, he had purchased an old Ford car that was first registered over twenty-five year earlier. This insured that it was not run by a computer, and was not leaving a digital footprint. Although he did have to spend a little money on it, making sure it was road worthy and looked tidy with an up to date legal warranty. Especially, adding a complete set of new tyres. Tyres being the most common item that the Police pick up on followed by broken rear lights. The finished project left him quite pleased with the result. As a final touch, it was registered under his alias name.

One of his biggest problems was CCTV cameras. They were everywhere and their grand tally was increasing daily. Even in the back woods of Suffolk, there was a chance that as you left towns and villages, you would drive past a camera somewhere. Then of course there were the locals, because of the high crime rates over the whole country, individuals were trying to protect their own property. Not just to film people entering their property, but driving past. He would often chuckle to himself while in the pub listening to locals bragging about who had driven past their house the day before.

He knew from his military days that most CCTV cameras were using a facial recognition program to identify people. Even wearing a full-faced balaclava did not help to hide your identity, as the program worked on facial recognition, concentrating on the cheek bone structure. Dave came up with a very light weight latex rubber facial half mask, that he had purchased from a theatrical shop. When fitted it only came up to the lower parts of the eyes hiding the cheekbones. However, this was only to be used on special occasions.

He also realised that CCTV also record how you walk. Almost like a fingerprint we all walk in different ways. Dave had purchased a very small soft latex heal insert for his left shoe. It was only about ten millimetres thick, but it gave him a slight limp on his left leg. It was no good just trying to rely on altering his walk when he saw a camera, as many are hidden. It was common knowledge that we are all being filmed twenty-four hours a day no matter where we are. However, the wearing of some of these disguises would only be used trying to protect his identity from others, while working for MI5.

As he could not observe the front gates comings and goings from the 'Lodge', he set up a hidden CCTV camera amongst the thick bushes. He liked the idea that the house could not be seen from the road. It meant that opportunists would not be teased in to breaking into the property. However, he wanted to be warned when anybody was about to enter. To assist him further, he added a small wireless system outside the property to the right-hand side of the front gate. It was connected to another speaker system inside the house, along with a remote switch to open and close the gate. A further gate remote switch was always carried in the driver's door panel of his car.

An early warning infrared red sensor that switched on a monitor in the 'Lodge' to the sound of a buzzer was also hidden in the vegetation, covering the front gate.

As for recording, what the cameras were picking up, Dave had come up with what he believed was a fresh look at an old idea, of hiding the information they were recording, from prying eyes or people breaking into the house.

During the early days of CCTV recording, a system known as VHS tapes were used, sadly the recoding units and tapes were big, ugly and cumbersome.

While in the Royal Navy Dave had been told by a friend that his Father had once hid his VHS recoding unit in the walls of his house. He had placed the unit in the wall and then plastered over the hole. The remote he used could penetrate the wall, if he was pointing it towards the wall roughly where it was hidden. Which meant that he could control its use. The only drawback was that he could not physically touch the unit or change a tape. Although he could play back on the TV, and save the information to other tapes that he could then hide in other places.

Sadly, one day his house was broken in to, and the burglars seeing the cameras outside the house had decided that they needed to find the recorder, and to destroy the damming evidence that they had been in the house.

At first the burglars could not find the recorder, until one of them noticed that a wire was coming out of the plaster, and was plugged directly into the TV. Thinking it was from the recorder they started pulling on the wire, and tearing it along the plasterwork. After destroying a whole wall, they eventually found the recorder. Apparently, all they stole that day was VHS tape from the recorder.

Dave's idea was to once again hide his recorder in the wall, only this time the technology had moved on, and with the help of Wi-Fi he needed no wires that would give the recorders position away.

Dave's computer was fully encrypted, so E-mails, locations and destinations could not be traced. Knowing that E-mails have what is called an encapsulated header. When the E-mail is written, the IP address information from that computer is then embedded and hidden into the top of the E-mail, this is then added at every port of call. In some cases, it could be as many as ten different locations, before it eventually ends up at its final intended destination. Having left an electronic trail (foot print) from the sender to the receiver.

The same can be said of an E-mail via an I-phone. The phones address and IP address are encoded into the mail, if it is then sent via a Wi-Fi at say a cafe to hot-mail, then both IP's are also included, if it then goes to another address and is forwarded. Once again, an electronic footprint will be recorded in other locations, thus building up a rather large dossier and digital footprint on the sender. You can spoof the address but you cannot spoof the electronic trail, unless you use some other person's computer, and he will end up being the fall guy. Although what the future held, nobody knew, as governments improved there strangle hold of obtaining as much information on its citizens as was possible.

Hoping that most of his gadgets were hidden covered up and in some cases camouflaged from prying eyes. Along with a few other little changes and rules he had set himself. While hoping for a sprinkling of good luck. Dave hoped to be able to drop off the radar, as he liked to call it.

A couple of weeks later Dave picked Mr Smith up at the Stowmarket railway station, and set him up with a bed at the 'Lodge', for a four-week field training period that Mr Jones had recommended earlier.

Mr Smith was going to explain and hope to train Dave on what was expected of him, to become a Field Operative. Explaining what he could trust and rely on, when the need arose, and of where to get help when it might be needed.

Being known as 'Slate', he was to become an MI5 'Cleaner', cum 'Courier' and 'Computer hacker', what was known in the trade as a 'Loner'. His main role was to clean up anywhere he was directed to, so no evidence could be found or gathered that might be used later in a court case. It was stressed that he was working for the government, although there is good chance that they might disown him. If he was caught it might not be legal what he was doing. In other words, it had to be done in secret. Adding that if he were caught there was a good chance that he would be on his own. In other words, he would have to dig himself out of whatever mess or hole he might find himself. He also had to plan where and how he would dump any evidence he gathered. Just in case they needed it at some later date.

Mr Smith had also brought a present for him, in the form of a My-Dish. Along with a remote control to point the dish, as well as altering the program on a monitor. The dish was fixed to the back of the 'Lodge' where he hoped it would not be seen. It was then pointed towards a British Military Satellite. Using information that Mr Smith had given him, along with a promise that it was legal. Mr Smith punched in a password telling Dave that if another password was used, they would know that he had been compromised, or maybe somebody else was trying to use it. He was also informed that its use would be monitored by the military. Once it was all set up, Dave was hoping that it would pick up most of the government controlled CCTV units across East Anglia. While later he was hoping that he might be able to tap into many of the other major cities throughout the country.

A secret bank account had been set up to assist him, and was up to him how he used it, be it digital or over the counter.

Along with information of how Dave could lock his computer into a secret server that was set up for all operatives. A whole new Internet that runs alongside the public one. Often referred to as the next web. Although it was never left on line, just in case his house was broken into. The thieves of today always go for the computer first.

As further protection Dave always used and worked from a portable hard drive that was never left with the computer, but hidden elsewhere.

He might also be sent on errands to visit people or deliver items, known as a 'Hand Luggage', or just to make notes on what was happening. In other words, he could be asked to do anything, while helping protect the country from terrorism be it arriving, or to already established cells in the country.

In order that certain packages could be delivered to him, at any time by an MI5 operative, Dave was asked for one of his electronic gate openers, along with a key so the package could be hidden in a secret place in the house. It would also mean that he did not have to be at the house all the time.

Depending on how successful he was as an operator, depended upon how he would be treated by the MI5 organisation.

East Anglia would be his main operational area, although he might be asked to assist other operatives in other areas, if needed?

Dave was pleased with the job, as it did not include a lot of office paper work. After it was explained to him that office work leaves a paper trail. Head office did not want evidence to be found anywhere. Whatever he got himself into, he would have to get himself out of.

However, not wanting to be telling MI5 how to operate, Dave had waited until Mr Smith had finished with his indoctrination upon joining MI5. Dave had spent a lot of time studying mobile phones, and how they could be best used, denying others the chance of following, listening, or reading the messages.

Dave had found a system that was used a couple of years earlier by one of the world's biggest and wealthiest drug dealer, Joaquin Guzman Loera nick named 'El Chapo'. Not only was he one of the richest people in the world, but also using a self-devised mobile phone system he was able to pass messages around without the authorities knowing. The money he bribed top governments officials with was staggering. Many could not help themselves and grabbed at the bribes he was offering.

Using the Blackberry system was a bonus as during its earlier days it turned out to be one of the hardest systems to get into. However, 'El Chapo' took it one giant step further. Realising that Wi-Fi in many cases is not track-able as it's encrypted, and that's what helps to keep it safe.

To get in touch with 'El Chapo' a contact would send a direct message to a Blackberry held by a trusted Lieutenant, using only public wireless networks. The Lieutenant would then transcribe the message onto a tablet, and forwards it to a middleman who was also using a tablet, and public Wi-Fi. The middleman then transcribes the message onto another Blackberry and sends it to 'El Chapo'. All was devised to keep him safe, which it did for a long time.

Dave wanted Mr Jones to see if MI5 would be interested in setting up a similar system. Having the manpower and technology it would be easy to operate. Plus, he had a few other ideas he could add to make it even more secure, and workable friendly.

Mr Smith was quick to answer with a smirk on his face.

"Can't see Mr Jones allowing the MI5 headquarters building being used as a Wi-Fi hub."

"No, I'm not suggesting anything like that."

"However, it would be a good move if you used the coffee shop free Wi-Fi just down the road, where we first met up." Insisted Dave.

"I'm sure there are other hubs close by that could also be used from your building."

Dave left him thinking over what he had just explained to him.

Upon dropping him off at the Stowmarket railway station Dave crossed his fingers that his idea would at least be given a little thought.
Chapter 9

Christian Street Whitechapel.

7:30 pm. Wednesday 1st June 2011.

During one stay in London, while trying to relax and wanting a beer, Dave had taken a walk to the local watering hole known as the 'Greyhound' pub. It was a quiet mid-week evening with just few of the loyal drinkers at the bar. One of those nights when it seems hard to strike up a conversation with somebody.

Dave was sitting at the bar, and was surprised when a woman came up to the bar for a drink. Dave's arm bumped her by accident while she was trying to pick up her drink. Although Dave had always believed that it was a genuine bump. Anyway, his apology led to a few polite words being swapped between them that lasted a few minutes.

Upon Dave telling her his name, she introduced herself as Susan, who lived locally. After a short time, Dave had established that she was alone, and so he asked if he could join her at the table she was about to head for. To which she was only too please, needing the company.

It turned out that Susan was also living on Christian Street the same street as Dave. Only in the opposite direction, about ten-minute walk from the pub.

Because of his work, Dave had not enjoyed the luxury of female company for some time, and had started to realise just how much he missed it. It was not for sex, more like a female's company and point of view during conversations. Although being honest with himself, it was in the back of his mind.

In all they spent just over an hour together, and both enjoyed each other's company. However, Susan had to leave as she had something to catch up on, before returning to work the following day. Not wanting to just walk away, and being a little old fashion in his ways, he insisted on waking her home. Which he did, and along the way he arranged to meet her at the weekend, adding that if his work did not interfere.

Once they arrived at Susan's house she made it plain that he was not going to gain entry. Although she willingly gave him her mobile phone number. While Dave was smart enough to evade passing his number onto her. He did not even get a kiss, but she had wet his appetite to see her again. As he walked away it left him wondering if he should have given her his number, as he really did want to see her again.

After many meetings at the 'Greyhound' Dave would always walk Susan home, and was usually asked in for a supposed cup of Coffee, that usually ended up with them in bed. As an in-joke between them, sex had become known as a cup of coffee.

However, at no time did Dave invite Susan into his apartment, just in case. As it was used by other MI5 operatives in the area, needing a place to lay their head. Never knowing what she might find laying around.

During one date, Susan had asked why he did not take her to his home. One thing Dave did believe in was that of not telling lies. Rather than lie he would change the subject completely, or find some other excuse. On this occasion, he explained to her that he was sharing the accommodation with a couple of fellow workers. Which in a way was true, adding that the place needed cleaning up, and it did?
Chapter 10

Christian Street Whitechapel.

7:30 pm. Thursday 8th December 2011.

During one stay in London, while trying to relax and wanting a beer, Dave had taken a walk to the local watering hole known as the 'Greyhound' pub. It was a quiet mid-week evening with just few of the loyal drinkers at the bar. One of those nights when it seems hard to strike up a conversation with somebody.

Dave was sitting at the bar, and was surprised when a woman came up to the bar for a drink. Dave's arm bumped her by accident while she was trying to pick up her drink. Although Dave had always believed that it was a genuine bump. Anyway, his apology led to a few polite words being swapped between them that lasted a few minutes.

Upon Dave telling her his name, she introduced herself as Susan, who lived locally. After a short time, Dave had established that she was alone, and so he asked if he could join her at the table she was about to head for. To which she was only too please, needing the company.

It turned out that Susan was also living on Christian Street the same street as Dave. Only in the opposite direction, about ten-minute walk from the pub.

Because of his work, Dave had not enjoyed the luxury of female company for some time, and had started to realise just how much he missed it. It was not for sex, more like a female's company and point of view during conversations. Although being honest with himself, it was in the back of his mind.

In all they spent just over an hour together, and both enjoyed each other's company. However, Susan had to leave as she had something to catch up on, before returning to work the following day. Not wanting to just walk away, and being a little old fashion in his ways, he insisted on waking her home. Which he did, and along the way he arranged to meet her at the weekend, adding that if his work did not interfere.

Once they arrived at Susan's house she made it plain that he was not going to gain entry. Although she willingly gave him her mobile phone number. While Dave was smart enough to evade passing his number onto her. He did not even get a kiss, but she had wet his appetite to see her again. As he walked away it left him wondering if he should have given her his number, as he really did want to see her again.

After many meetings at the 'Greyhound' Dave would always walk Susan home, and was usually asked in for a supposed cup of Coffee, that usually ended up with them in bed. As an in joke between them, sex had become known as a cup of coffee.

However, at no time did Dave invite Susan into his apartment, just in case. As it was used by other MI5 operatives in the area, needing a place to lay their head. Never knowing what she might find laying around.

During one date, Susan had asked why he did not take her to his home. One thing Dave did believe in was that of not telling lies. Rather than lie he would change the subject completely, or find some other excuse. On this occasion, he explained to her that he was sharing the accommodation with a couple of fellow workers. Which in a way was true, adding that the place needed cleaning up, and it did?
Chapter 11

Thames House Westminster London.

September 2014.

The case against Dave of being accused of the murder of Susan Darcy, although only circumstantial the Police felt it compelling, mainly as they had nobody else in the frame. Probably hoping to increase their crime clear up rate figures.

However, MI5 believed they knew the truth about Dave's connection, but understandably could not stand up and vouch for him in court of law, without having to explaining their involvement in the protection of the country. They believed they knew the true story, as he had been working for them in the London area as a courier on that occasion. Although the exact time and his true location were un-known as he was looking forward to having an evening off. Hoping to meet up with his girlfriend Susan, and to have a quite drink together in the local pub.

Dave knew the risks when he joined MI5, and that one-day maybe something like that could probably happen to him.

After being arrested by the Police he had to stay silent, and hope for the best. He could not count on MI5 to become openly involved, mainly because they did not want the public to know about a terrorist cell, and to what they were planning.

This time Dave was well and truly on his own, and realising that he had to play out the hand that had been dealt.

Although it was a little hard to swallow, especially after hearing the judge sentence him to nine years behind bars. The not knowing how long he was going to be in prison did not bare thinking about.

While in prison he had further problems to worry about. If the inmates found out that he related to the law in anyway, there was a good chance that he might be found dead one morning in the shower or toilet block.

At no time did anybody visit or contact him. Now he was well and truly on his own. Facing nine years behind bars, without parole.

While behind the scenes and in secret MI5 had been trying to work on a plan to get Dave released without divulging their involvement in what Dave was up to. They had to also keep it secret that they were paying and working behind the scenes to help gain his release.

Eventually, after a wait of six months into his sentence, Dave's secret MI5 financed legal team lodged an appeal. Because no DNA from Dave had been located at the scene of the crime. Although another major reason was that a member of the public had finally come forward to report that he had seen whom he believed to be Dave walking towards the park, and later sitting on the steps of Susan's accommodation. Somehow MI5's name was not mentioned, and they managed to keep their nose clean, and un-involved. Although the Home Office had secretly informed the Judge of what had taken place.

About ten further weeks passed, to make it look normal and above board, before Dave was finally released from Wandsworth prison. Being secretly picked up by a fellow cleaner to evade attention. While everybody at MI5 sat back and hoped that the press did not smell a rat, and plaster it over their front-page tabloids.

They were in luck, while Dave was also delighted wanting to drop out of site for a while to enjoy his freedom, and the fresh air he had missed during the past nine months.
Chapter 12

Norwich Police Headquarters.

10:30 am. Thursday 5th February 2015.

Following his usual daily routine, Dave bought a Guardian newspaper only to check the miscellanist column. Then running his finger down the messengers, he stopped by one that read 'Please visit the Garden of Eden'. It needed no further explanation, as Dave knew exactly what it meant.

To his amazement and surprise, Detective Chief Inspector Eden wanted to talk to him at the Police station.

Upon his arrival, Dave was surprised by the warm reception that greeted him at the station. Eden's out stretched hand of welcome was a further surprise. Far different from the way they had parted company a few weeks earlier. Although Dave was more interested to learn as to why he wanted to see him.

Eden had been busy trying to locate as much paper work and information as possible about Dave's involvement in the murder of Susan Darcy.

Un-known to Dave, Susan Darcy had been born during early February 1974, on the eastern side of London near Gallows Corner, and Harold Hill in Essex, alongside the A 12 motorway heading into London.

Her Irish parents had been very strict, sadly something they did not apply to themselves. Most evenings they would be out visiting the local pub or cinema. While Susan was left to stay in the house on her own. They never spent any money on her, and presents were very scares. Christmas time if she was lucky.

During her growing up she became their un-paid house keeper, and was criticised most days for the work she carried out. Always being hostile towards her at every opportunity. Although their behaviour was never carried out while in the company of others. Their Jekyll and Hyde routine made it impossible for Susan to try and reach out to others for help. While in other eyes, it was Susan who was the constant complainer, trying to run her parents down whenever possible, to gain attention at every opportunity.

During her middle teens, Susan had run away from home and ended up living rough with friends. While later she secretly gave birth to a little boy on a friend's settee. Who she named and registered as Michael Darcy, using her maiden name. Although it was not publicly known, several in the area believed his Father to be Raymond Foster. A young teenage tear away leader of a local gang of thugs. Who made life even harder, and in some cases unbearable for many of the people living in the area. That included robbery, drug dealings, and bashings to name but a few problems. Deliberately damaging property and stealing whatever was not bolted down securely. As well as the beating up of innocent people, and the distribution of drugs amongst the young people of the area.

However, Foster deserted Susan soon after the birth of Michael, and moved on to a long list of other local girlfriends. All of who sort his attention because of the money he was constantly flashing around.

Although he was small in stature, and young, he still attracted the name of 'Mr Big'. Not many people in the area ever challenged him, or his position, in the criminal fraternity. Money spoke louder than words in that area.

A few years later it became common knowledge that Foster had Fathered several other children in the area. Having walked away from all without financially assisting any of the Mothers.

Upon Foster's desertion, Susan fell upon and experienced hard times trying to look after Michael. She had been forced to give up a part time job she had managed to hold for a short time. Which later lead to the unemployment office, and later the child welfare Social Security Department stopping payments to her, for violating their rules and regulations.

Hence the start of a hard life that spiralled down wards out of control, and it became hard for her to survive. Handouts from her friends slowly dried up, and eventually the child was taken from her, and ended up in care. Although Susan loved the child very much she knew she had to let him go. Hoping that he would end up with a good family and be loved.

While Susan was left with nothing, no job, nowhere to live and no help to assist her during this sad depressive time. Rumours circulated that to survive she moved closer to London and turned to the streets as an income. Although not wanting to meet face to face with her parents, was probably another reason, for the move.

As for Michael, he was taken into so called care, and sadly was shunted around amongst a selection of childcare units, where he was treated as an item and love was the last thing on their minds. All they were after was the cash that the government handed out to help look after him.

Around the time he was five, he started on another round of pass the parcel, being shunted around a long list of foster homes, amongst families that were not the best of role models. He was treated very bad, beaten and in a couple of cases sexually abused. Just like his Mother he became the house cleaner, under the threat of punishment it he did not do what he was told.

Being shunted around different family's Michael became a hand full to control and look after. During which time, he was constantly threatening to run away. A few times he did, but was always returned to the family, and usually received a beating. He was best described by the Social Service Department of the day, as being 'Beyond Parental Control'.

DNA had been taken from Susan's body, although at this stage her son's location is unknown, as there are no threads of information in the system to follow up.
Chapter 13

Mile End Road Norwich.

21:35 pm. Sunday 5th April 2015.

The Gladstone Electronics factory was situated just off the Mile End Road, South West of the city of Norwich. It being a cover for British intelligence gathering throughout the country.

Secretly it was where all the old Government computers and hardware was stored, so that certain information could be retrieved and store elsewhere. The hard drives would then be removed and replaced with new ones, before finally being checked over, and set up for resale to the public. Making sure all existing data had been erased, before others could use them.

The front gate had been designed to keep un-welcome visitors out. A small cabin was in the middle of the driveway at the front of the property. With two strong separated barriers blocking both the inn and out lanes. The cabin was about five meters wide with a glass front allowing the twenty-four-hour guard to watch who was arriving, and who he was allowing to leave.

During the early hours of the morning a car turned into the driveway, but instead of pulling up alongside the sentry box on the driver's side of the cabin. It under took a sharp right turn just in front of the cabin, and parked with the cabin by the passenger side of the car.

The passenger side door opened and a young man climbed out and made his way to the guard who was standing inside the cabin, but leaning over towards an open window in his exit door, waiting to see what he wanted.

As the passenger arrived at the window the sentry asked,

"Can I help?" He asked.

"Yes, I hope so." He responded.

Explaining they had seen a couple of temporary road signs along the road having pre-warned them of a diversion that was to be expected up ahead. He wanted to know what was the best way to get to an address that they believed was around that area.

The sentry looked at the piece of paper, and started to explain pointing in a couple of directions, while telling him what roads and features he should look out for. Finally adding that he should take the left then the right. The passenger started to act a little dumb, and responded that he did not understand, especially as he did not know the area. That he would not be able to pass it on to the driver, who he added did know the area a little. He then asked if he could just tell the driver. The guard was only too willing to oblige and exited the cabin. Making his way to the passenger's door that had been left open, just in front of his cabin. As he leaned down to talk through the door, the passenger moved ahead of him and politely opened the door a little wider to assist him. He then started giving directions to the driver.

After a few seconds, the passenger hit him on the back of the neck with his fist. Then after pushing him onto the front seat he slammed the door shut.

The passenger hurriedly made his way back to the cabin that had been left open, and raised both the in and out barriers.

He then returned to the car and got into the back seat, behind the unconscious guard. Placing his arm around his neck just in case he came around, and ordered the driver to drive on.

The car then joined the out lane and did a sharp left turn into the main road, and parked in a bus layby a few meters further on. The driver then applied the brakes three times. Allowing the red brake lights to flash. Passing a signal to other members of the team who were parked further back in a truck. This was a signal informing them that it was all clear to drive on and enter the property.

Within seconds the truck entered the depot, and another member of the team jumped out, and entered the cabin looking for the keys to the main building. Upon finding them hanging on a board just inside the door, he grabbed them and jumped back into truck ordering the driver to drive on.

The raid had been well planned, as they knew the routine of the guard, where and what the keys looked like, how to turn off the alarm, and finally where to enter the main building. The information had been bought and so far, it looked like it was worth every penny.

The team of four wasted no time in switching off the alarm and entering the warehouse. They had come prepared for the occasion, wearing gloves, plastic bags over their shoes, hooded camouflage jackets and micky mouse face masks. Knowing that the whole warehouse complex was probably being covered twenty-four hours by CCTV cameras.

While planning they had suggested that they should try and switch off the cameras. However, this idea was discarded as a waste of precious time. Knowing that they would be on video getting into the warehouse. Better to cover up and get on with the job. As there was also a chance that the system might also be duplicated with a secret back up that their informant did not know about.

They made their way safely to the locked room the informant had descried to them. Which contained dozens of plastic crates, all full of old computer internal hard drives. It took them a further twenty minutes to load fifty of them into the back of the truck, using two men per crate to lift them. While all the time listening out for a car horn signal that would inform them that there were problems about to develop.

Once the team were back in the truck, they drove back out onto the street and flashed the car still waiting in the bus layby just a head of them, after over taking them they drove off.

While the security guard was bundled out of the car onto the pavement. Within seconds the car sped off behind the truck and they were last seen heading for the A11 Old London Road. Better known by the locals who referred to it during peak rush hour, as the A11 car park.

Although unaware, the truck and its cargo was tracked via CCTV footage, and delivered to a medium size stately home on the south-eastern out skirts of Colchester. Having been unloaded during the early hours of the morning, into a small out house building around the back of the property.

It turned out that Mr Clive Manning, a very successful businessman, owned the property although not a lot of other information was available of his earlier history.

Mr Jones of MI5 was pleased with the information passed on to him, and ordered more to be gathered as soon as possible, as to what he was up too.

The data that might be gained from the hard drives could be of great use to him or a foreign country. Be it cash or security wise.

Although by then the robbers had long gone. The local Police were ordered to raid the property, and to leave no stone unturned, especially in and around the outhouse area.

That turned out to resemble a city office complex. With twelve desks spread around the room all set up with two and in a couple of cases three computers. Plus, printers and scanner. It was certainly a professional set up. The information they were checking over seemed to be worth a lot of trouble and money trying to gather it. Whether the property owner Clive Manning was using it or maybe he was selling it, either way they had to find out, and find out fast. As the security of the whole country could be at stake.

After the outhouse had been thoroughly checked over for information, the Police made an extraordinary decision. Instead of moving all the computers and hard ware. They decided to get a team of MI5 experts in, and to start checking out the information stored on the hard drives in the outhouse.

Mr Jones was desperate to know what was of interest to Mr Clive Manning, not just its value in money but also its cost to the security of the country.

A pattern started to develop of the type of information that had carelessly been left on some of the hard drives. It was then established that the drives with sellable data were all coming from the same departments. In other words, many of the drives had not been reformatted, as had been ordered.

Mr Jones was guessing that the hard drives were probably offered for sale in batches, and that it was up to the buyer. A lucky dip, and a bit of a gamble, knowing that some were of no use to him. While maybe a few were.

The seller stressing the point that he could not check each one when they were stolen, but the information they were uncovering was well worth the cost of the sale.

It was also detected that it was the Army ones that revealed a lot of information that would be of value to a foreign buyer. Who knows maybe they were just on selling it. On the other hand, looking at all the computers in the room, maybe he was storing all the useful information. However, that would depend on what the buyer was after.

As the information within the room was being gathered the enormous complexity of the set up was being realise. The information that might have been sold during the length of period that this scam had been going on became frightening to all who were there.

After all, this was only the first report of such a robbery. Knowing government departments as he did, this could have happened a few times during the past, and covered up as was usual. Working on the premise that what the public don't know, they won't worry about.

Mr Jones concluded that the time was right to bring his opposite number MI6 in on their findings.

Suddenly Jones stopped what he was doing, having realised that he already knew a 'Clive Manning'. Of course, he did, they had been keeping an eye on him a couple of years back. Although he did not have much information on what he was up too. It was looking like he might be setting up some sort of a cell, whether for him or he was helping somebody else they did not know. Too find out he had ordered the 'Slate' to bug his house that same night. Having been concentrating on the hard drive robbery, it had completely slipped his mind.

However, he was brought back to normality by the ringing of his phone. To be informed by a DCI Eden, that he was holding somebody, who was helping them, concerning the death of a Mr Clive Manning.
Chapter 14

No.13 Barnaby Street Norwich.

7:16 pm. Sunday 14th June 2015.

As it was MI5 who had sent Dave to check out the property, they felt it was their responsibility. Dave's bugging job had been arranged by Mr Jones as they were tracking a suspected local terrorist group that had been set up a couple of years earlier in the area. However, they were not ready to spread the net and arrest all its members as they lacked vital information on exactly what they were involved in, and how many were involved.

Dave had been sent in to check out the leader Clive Manning, and to bug his house. Unfortunately, Dave's plans did not work out. As he had not expected anybody to be in the house. He was caught un-aware and knocked out from behind. When he came around he could not remember seeing anybody, be it the owner or another possible intruder.

Believing the house to be empty he had quietly searched around the downstairs area, but missed the owner lying dead behind a settee in front of a wall, having been shot.

He hid a small microphone by the land phone line in the kitchen, on top of a high cupboard. It being the main area that conversation would usually take place.

He then proceeded upstairs, having a general look around, in case he was asked to describe the lay out of the house, if a raid was required later.

After going through two bedrooms he approached what he believed to be the main one.

He opened the door and slowly walked in, deciding not to switch on the main light, or to use a small torch he had in his pocket. As both might attract attention from people walking past the building.

As he let go of the door he had just opened to walk over to a picture on the far wall. Suddenly the light in his eyes went out, as he received a serve blow to the back of his head.

Several minutes later he was almost blinded by a brilliant light that was directed at his face. Followed by a loud voice ordering him to freeze and raise his hands, an order he was not about to disobey.

Mr Jones first gut instinct was telling him that it had been an ordered hit on Manning. To him it was not a burglary gone wrong, as the average burglar doesn't usually carry a gun. They like to gain entrance into a property as fast as they can, grab what they can, and get out as fast as they can. No, burglars do not normally carry guns.

This intruder had arrived at the house before Dave, probably killed the owner and was upstairs looking for something, maybe a safe? When Dave disturbed his plans, and walked into the bedroom.
Chapter 15

The 'Lodge'.

Great Finborough.

9:00 am. Saturday 20th June 2015.

Dave was left wondering about the situation he found himself, that of being involved in two completely different unconnected murders. Try as he might he could not come up with a reason or a connection. Apart from the fact that they both happened while he was working for Mr Jones.

However, one had taken place while he was taking time out with a girlfriend. While the other was on a special assignment for Mr Jones. Maybe that was the connection, or maybe it was a coincidence.

Maybe it was just a case of being in the right place at the wrong time. Once again maybe his luck had run out on him.

The subject left him bewildered for several weeks. At the extreme, maybe somebody was making sure that he was returned to prison. Only this time as a double murderer, then the authorities might be able to throw the book at him, and the key away for good.

Although on second thoughts maybe he was being targeted, maybe he was being followed for some other unknown reason. He even had the thought that maybe he was being set up as a murderer, if so whatever was coming next. It left him realising that he should try and keep an eye on his back, just in case a third coincidence might pop up its ugly head and strike again.

Dave found himself with a little time on his hands and so retreated to the 'Lodge' for what the Royal Navy called a 'Make and Mend' period. Having been issued during training with a small linen pouch containing needles and cotton thread to repair their clothing and uniforms. However, many usually referred it as feet up time, so you could do just that and take it easy.

During the evening, he walked down to the pub for a drink. Being mid-week it was quiet, with only a hand full of locals standing at the bar. Therefore, all were involved in what little conversation was taking place, cracking jokes and laughing. In fact, it turned out to be a I can beat that joke competition night.

When suddenly somebody tapped Dave on the shoulder. He turned around to find himself looking at a lady of about his own age standing on her own. He must have looked a little bewildered in not knowing who she was.

"You don't know who I am do you." She asked.

"No, I'm afraid you have the better of me." Followed by

"Should I."

"Well you have kissed me in the past.' She informed him.

"That narrows it down to a few hundred." He fired back.

"You, really don't know do you." She teased him.

"How about a re-run." He asked.

She leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek, at this point some of his earlier girlfriend's names were racing through his mind, in the hope that he could come up with who she was.

Eventually both said,

"Lorraine." At the very same time.

'Wow'. He could not believe that it was his school day's girlfriend, and had not seen her since they left school way back in 1995. He immediately gave her another kiss, only this one it lasted a little longer. It was followed by loud cheers from the drinkers standing around the bar.

After buying her a drink they went and sat by the window, where it was a little quieter, leaving the drinkers cracking their jokes by the bar.

They were soon into telling each other what they had been up too since leaving school. Although Dave neglected to mention MI5, concentrating on his Private Investigation business, as all in the area was aware of.

The one thing they had in common was that they were both single. Furthermore, neither of them had settled down with a regular partner.

They spent so much time talking that both never noticed their glasses were standing empty on the table, until one of Dave's friends brought them a fresh one over to their table.

Without realising it, the night had rushed by, and the landlord was shouting,

"Time gentlemen please." Wanting to close for the evening.

They were so engrossed in talking to each other that they continued outside, for some time. Eventually Lorraine called it a night telling Dave that she had to go. Although not before she gave him a couple more kisses and asking if they could meet up again, and very soon. It took Dave a split second to answer,

"Yes, the sooner the better."

That was the first time in his life Dave had ever been asked out on a date. He had grown up into a world where the guy did the asking, as well as the paying for the first evening out together. Which left him wondering if she was going to pay.
Chapter 16

MI5. Thames House Westminster London.

11:46 am. Monday 22th June 2015.

Dave Slater joined Mr Jones and DCI Eden in the office not realising that they had already been chatting for a couple of hours, about his character and history.

Mr Jones asked him to take a seat and started the conversation explaining that he wanted to know if there was a connection between both the murders that Dave was involved with.

He had been through a few rough nights without sleep, wondering if MI5 was also involved. For security reasons, he had to find out. Just in case it was to escalate up to another level. Adding that maybe the connection was not via Dave but via MI5. A hush fell on the room, as they all looked at each other.

Being the only person in the room that was directly connected with both murders. Dave was first to speak, the last thing he needed now was another stint in prison, for something he had not committed. Now, he was free and wanted to stay that way.

They started to add little snippets of information, hoping to build up a picture that might explain a connection if in fact there was one. Or was it just a Coincidence.

Eden could only answer questions on what he had been involved in, that of the arrest of Dave at Clive Manning's house. However, since then he had been checking out other information, hoping that he might be able to unravel the situation further. Although he had come up with one big blank.

Dave was asked if he had any other ideas, and shook his head, but added,

"I did not even know there was anybody in the house, be it owner or murderer?"

Mr Jones interrupted,

"On both occasions Dave, you were working for me, but I can't find a connection."

"Let's go through it again."

"How did you meet up with Susan Darcy, and the run up to her murder."
Chapter 17

Norwich Police Headquarters.

11:28 am. Tuesday 21st July 2015.

Detective Colin Barnard spent a lot of time concentrating on the case, for his boss DCI Eden. Upon undertaking a DNA siblings test, he eventually established that Raymond Foster i.e. Clive Manning, had quite a few illegitimate children in the Harold Hill, Essex area. Along with proving he was the Father of Susan Darcy's son Michael. Although there was nothing on record of Michael, of where he was, or if in fact he was still alive.

He further proved that a third persons DNA taken from the bodies of Susan Darcy and Raymond Foster was the same. Not a lot but enough to make a positive connection.

On Susan's body, there was one single hair. While on Mr Foster the DNA had been taken from a couple of beads of sweat that might have dropped on the body as the murderer tried to drag it behind the settee. To hide it from view as people entered the room. Thus, assuming the room to be empty.

Try as they might they could not make a connection. The DNA was not even on the National data base system, which further informed the authorities that the killer was not connected with any other known crime in the country. From here the trail was cold. The problem now was who was that person, and where was Michael Darcy.
Chapter 18

Norwich Police Headquarters.

9:00 am. Wednesday 22th July 2015.

DCI Eden and his team had received a break though concerning the Clive Manning case. Colin Barnard one of the detectives discovered that several years earlier he had changed his name legally via deed poll. He used to be known as Raymond Foster, who was born in 1973. Responsible for a lot of petty crimes during his early years, when he lived in the Harold Hill, Gallows Corner area of Essex.

"He has a petty crime sheet as long as your arm." He told Dave.

"But not much else to go on."

Luckily another member of the team decided to run a further DNA test for siblings, and was very surprised to find that there were several matching results. Most of who, used to live around the Harold Hill area of Essex. Proving that he had been very active in the baby-making department. However, upon checking with the Social Security Office, and according to their files, it looks like he never paid a single penny to help with their up keep.

The report further informed them that Raymond Foster had eventually moved to the Norwich area. Becoming the head of a legitimate company. That eventually turned out to be a front for a local crime gang. At present, there is talk and chatter that he could be getting involved in an International syndicate. It was also believed that they are trying to branch out and set up in the United Kingdom.

"Can you pass this information on to Mr Jones, for me." Dave asked.

To which DCI Eden agreed.
Chapter 19

Michael Darcy.

Over the years, Michael Darcy had managed to survive keeping himself out of major trouble with the law.

However, during this time he had always blamed his Mother for what had and was still happening to him. Constantly thinking of reprisals for the life he had been thrown into, and of the brutality he had constantly experienced.

It had all lead to a rather large grudge being carried around in his head, against his Mother. Blaming her for all he had been through, and cheated of. That ruled his every day thoughts and long-term plans. During all that time, nobody had ever told him the truth about where he had come from, and who his parents were.

Just like his Mother, as soon as he was 16 years old he ran away, and dropped off the radar. Somehow, he must have kept out of trouble because there is no record of him anywhere. Although, later officials came up with the idea that he might have changed his name. Not officially as there is no record, but just started referring to himself by another name, whenever he was asked. Using the system is relatively easy to get away with it, as not many people ask for identity. The most usual one is a driving licence, and not everybody drives.

It eventually started to drag him down, to such a point that he visited a local library, and went on line to try and find out information about his Mother. It was not easy, and took a couple of days and several hours. He eventually found the correct department that dealt with foster children. However, his answers where not going to be easily gained, as there were several forms to be filled in, and sent to their head office.

When his reply finally arrived, it informed him that he had to visit a local office for a personal chat. Explaining that information like he was trying to obtain, was not handed out lightly, to anybody. However, if he adhered to certain condition, and he was entitled to know that sort of information, they might be able to help.

Came the day when he wasted no time in arriving on time at the Foster Children's office. Where it was explained to him who his Mother was, and of where he was born. Although on his birth certificate it did not list his Father, which is why he was named Michael Darcy. The last known address they had of his Mother was Christian Street Whitechapel, London.

Amongst the folder of papers, they had on Michael was a photo of his Mother taken a few years earlier. Upon requesting a copy, it was obliged along with another of Michael taken when he was about five years old.

Michael was determined to try and meet up and confront his Mother, but his biggest problem now was trying to find her. His only clue was that she might still be in the Whitechapel area.

After a month of searching Michael was still convinced that she was in the Whitechapel area.

While walking past the 'Greyhound' pub late one evening he noticed a couple leaving, and the alarm bells in his head started ringing. After just one glance he was sure that it was her. Although he had no idea who she was with. However, he decided to follow them, so he dropped back and slowed up his walk.

When eventually they stopped outside a terraced house, Michael also stopped, pretending to tie up his shoelace. To his amazement after just a few minutes of chat, and a quick kiss they parted company. The guy turned and walked back towards him, and passed bye. To carry on along the road back towards the pub. While Michael took note of the address.

The next day, he visited the local library and wasted no time in getting on line to search the phone directory. Hoping to find the name of a person living in Christian Street Whitechapel.

Sure enough, there she was, and yes, he was convinced that he had just seen his long-lost Mother, because she was still using her maiden name. At least she had never married.

During the next few days he watched and followed her on several occasions, not sure what he might do next. He wanted to meet up with her, and if possible on his terms, but could not make up his mind how to go about it.
Chapter 20

Christian Street Whitechapel.

6:45 pm. Friday 13th December 2013.

Walking through the park heading for Christian Street, Michael Darcy was on his way to once again try and follow his Mother. When he suddenly realised that she was standing alone by the park gate that he was heading towards. A split second's decision, and he decided to confront her, although he had no plan of what to do next, or what he was going to say.

He just walked straight up to her, and without hesitating asked,

"Do you know who I am?"

Susan was caught off guard wondering who he was, and if she should shout for help. Remembering that a couple of years earlier somebody had been attacked in the park. For a few moments, she did not know what to say or do. Then answered,

"No, leave me alone or I'll call the Police."

Michael was hurt by her answer, and his low mental state took control of him.

"You Bloody well should." He started to raise his voice.

"I'm your son, don't you bloody recognise me." He asked.

For a moment, she did not realise who he was, it being twenty-three years since he was taken away from her. Plus, he would have only been a few years old at the time.

With tears in her eyes she finally acknowledged,

"Yes, I do know you." Not really knowing what was going to be expected of her next?

For a moment, it seemed to satisfy Michael, as he did not know what to do next. Now he was making it up as he went along.

"Who's my Father?" He asked.

Although there was no answer. With a raised voice he asked her again,

"Who's my Father?"

He started poking her hard in the chest with two fingers.

"Raymond Foster." She answered.

"Who's he?" Michael asked.

"Where does he live?"

"I don't know, he changed his name to Clive Manning and moved to Norwich many years ago."

"I don't know any more about him." She pleaded.

Michael started poking her harder and harder in the chest, although by now she was sobbing so much that she was becoming incoherent. This brought on a fit of rage, as Michael was determined that he was going to get his Father as well. Also, blaming him for all his problems.

By now both were out of control. Michael with his rage, that he was unleashing upon Susan, blaming here for almost all his problems during the past few years. While Susan was badly distraught and sobbing bitterly. Realising that this was not the way she had hope for, if she were ever to eventually meet up with her long lost one and only child.

With that he grabbed hold of both her arms near her elbows, and with his momentum pushed her back off the pathway into the bushes. The more that Susan struggled and taunted him, the more violent he became. His pushing finally stopped as Susan's back contacted what felt like a rather large tree.

By this time, Michael had completely lost control of his actions. Still having hold of her arms, he started banging her against the tree. Becoming more violent every time she made contact.

As she was trying to call out for help, it encouraged Michael to do more to try and shut her up. His response was to lump her body even harder against the tree.

Until one big violent push smashed the back of her head against the tree, with a loud thud. It had contacted a jagged stub, of an earlier broken off small branch. Immediately her body went limp and started sliding down the tree trunk towards the ground. As her body started to slump towards, Michael was unable to hold onto her, and let her drop. She then crumpled into an unsightly heap by the base of the tree.

Upon looking at his Mother, Michael's mental state deteriorated quickly into a major panic. It suddenly became obvious that he might have possibly killed her. He had to get away. Without even looking around to see if anybody had been watching what had happened. He pushed through the bushes and back on to the path and made a quick exit from the park.

Once the horror of the crime he had committed sunk in, it seemed to have settled his brain, and all inner thoughts of further revenge attacks were wiped completely away.

After all the newspapers of the day were later informing their readers that a David Slater was in the frame for the attack. To him the pressure was off and he disappeared for a few months. Not wanting to be seen in case there was a connection with his Mothers Murder.

However, it was not long before the revenge thoughts returned.

Having discovered whom his Father was, Michaels thirst for reprisal was gnawing away in his head. His mental state was completely mixed up, having no remorse for killing his Mother. Although his ego was thriving, and the adrenalin was pumping, on the belief that he had completely got away with the crime. Although his mental state was not that of a normal person, as he carried no guilt.

Michael was keen to track his Father down, and wasted no time in trawling through the on-line phone directories. Striking luck at his first attempt, as there was only one Clive Manning in the Norwich area. Just to make sure he also looked up Raymond Foster, and was amazed to find that there was also one. Even more surprising they were both listed as living at the same address. No.13 Barnaby Street Norwich.
Chapter 21

Raymond Foster - Clive Manning

Raymond Foster had been born in the suburb of Harold Hill, during 1973 to Scottish parents Andrew and Bella. It being a tough area to live made it a tough upbringing. His Father Andrew was a well-known character in the area, being involved in most of the small-time crime that influenced Raymond's growing up.

His lack of schooling did not worry the family, as it was taken for granted that he would one day take over what his Father had set up. In fact, it was hoped that he might expand the business further.

However, all those plans were placed on hold the day he reached the age of sixteen, when his Father was arrested for dealing big time in stolen property. For which he was eventually sentenced to four years in prison. This was the signal for Raymond to take over, although he was not prepared for the promotion.

He was thrust into a world of crime on a scale that was way above his none existent educational standard. Oh, he could break into any home or industrial site, but it was the running of the business that he had not been prepared for. Mainly because his Father never dreamt or expected that one-day he would be caught. Plus, he was not going to let somebody else get his hands in the till, before it was necessary.

It was not long before many of the locals became a little scared of him, as he tried to portray himself as the toughest guy in the area, and living off his Father's reputation. Who was big in structure, and could plant a fist into anybody's face, without any warning of it coming.

The crime rate in the area increased, and all who live there believed him to be the culprit. However, not many people took him on, even those who felt his bark was worse that his bite, were not that game. As he was unpredictable in whatever he did or was involved in.

The illegitimate birth rate in the area also increased, and once again rumour had it that Raymond was the main culprit. The way in which he flashed his money around attracted many of the local girls to him like a magnet.

One such girl was Susan Darcy who had a son named Michael. Just like all the other girls, at no time did he ever offer financial help for their up-keep.

Gradually he managed to take control of the business, and his crime dealings started to attract other crime figures from other areas to undertake deals between them. In fact, he managed to scale up the business to include other more profitable crimes. There was even a suggestion that he was starting to secretly import firearms. While assisting other crime groups some of who were outside the country. The business was growing fast, and so he decided to move to a much larger more profitable area.

Raymond chose Norwich as it had an airport, with regular flights in to and from Europe. With what looked like a fresh start, he even came up with a new name for himself. It was all under taken legally via deed poll. Over the next couple of weeks, he became Clive Manning, and for what he hoped was a fresh start in a new up-scaled criminal business.
Chapter 22

Dave Slater.

9:37 am. Tuesday 4th August 2015.

Mr Jones contacted Dave to inform him that one of his departments, had spent time going through all the facial recognition CCTV footage, for a second look.

Spending several hours searching the Christian Street, Whitechapel area. As the park was very large, and there were dozens of angles to look at, and ten different gates of entry.

The first place of interest was to look at the gate near where Susan's body was found. However, there did not seem to be anybody entering around the time it was believed she died. It looked like she had been walking from the opposite direction through the park. Although, they did pick her up once she was standing just inside the park, a few meters from the gate.

Then a male also approached from the internal path and stopped just in front of her. A few seconds later it looked like he was pushing her backwards, into thick bushes. Then they are out of sight for a time, until the male leaves the area on his own. The footage lasted just a few minutes, and during all that time his face was only captured on a couple of frames, although the quality was poor. However, the boffins within MI5 managed to enhance it, so it could be used via a facial recognition software program.

His facial details had been logged into several of the computers covering CCTV footage across all the counties in the East Anglian area and London.

A few hours later other security companies got in touch, informing that he was also on their footage. It seemed like most of his latest spotting's were all in the Norwich area. Dave wasted no time in asking Mr Jones to let him know where ever he crops up, as he wants to get to him first. That he would be staying in the area just in case he pops his head up and re-appears.

Mr Jones later informed Dave that Michaels face was being recognised around the Norfolk Broads area of Horning, near the 'Swan Inn' alongside the river Bure.

Taking the only photo of Michael that he had, Dave wasted no time in driving to the location, and to have a look around for himself. He had no other clues as to what he was wearing, or of his exact location. Although at first glance he could see that it was a small country village. To make it easy he pre-booked himself a couple of nights stay at the 'Swan Inn', explaining that he was on holiday as a bird watcher. This would give him an excuse to be wandering around the area. Lucky for him he had a small set of binoculars in the glove box. Although they were of a military design nobody would know the difference hanging around his neck.

He spent several hours walking south east along the cannel bank. Only to retrace his footsteps back to the pub. To then follow the cannel west for a couple of miles, followed by a return walk back to the Pub. That deserved a drink before he retired to his room.

After a couple of beers, he was about to call it a day. When he spotted, somebody enter and walked up to the bar, to ordered a pint. Something about his face was telling Dave that he could be the man he was looking for. Grabbing his wallet, he removed the photo and took a closer look,

"Yes, got you." He thought.

Although he was dog tired after covering several miles along the cannel bank earlier. He had to keep awake to watch the new comers every move. Bad luck for Dave as he stayed until last orders and closing time.

Dave had decided to try and follow his target, although by now it was dark and he did not know the area.

Upon leaving the pub, the target made his way along the cannel heading in a South Easterly direction. The first route Dave had taken earlier in the day, passing many holiday cannel narrow boats.

It was hard to keep him in sight because of the darkness, and the distance he had to stay back, in order that he was not spotted. Eventually the suspect stopped by a boat, and looked like he was trying to unlock the cabin door by the stern.

Dave spent some time trying to work out his location, so he hoped he could find it the following morning. Lucky for him although all the boats looked the same in shape and style. They all had completely different paint jobs on the outside of the boat. For some reason, the colour red seemed to stand out. Although just to make sure he kicked around on the side of the path, feeling for small rocks. Luck was with him as he managed to place three of them together in line with the stern of the boat.

Back at the Swan pub and the privacy of his bedroom, Dave contacted DCI Eden, passing on all the details of the evening.

Dave was told to keep his distance, and that he would be contacting him at the pub, early the following morning.

There was no plan, they would have to make it up as they went along. All Dave had in his mind was to get him because of what he had done to Susan his girlfriend. Plus, for what he had personally been through while in prison. The fact that she was his Mother did not seem to come into the equation. Now it was Dave who had bad feelings in his head.

Dave met up with Eden in the dining room of the pub, and explained everything he could remember that had happened the day before. Although there was no plan discussed as to what they were going to do. Other than somehow try and catch him, if he was the man they were after. Knowing that he had shot Clive Manning with a pistol pre-warned them that he could possibly be armed.

Eden had brought along five other Police officer all in uniform, so they would have to stay hidden, until requited.

After explaining to Eden that he had marked the boat, it was decided that just the two of them would lead the way, while the others kept well back and out of site.

It was a twenty-minute walk until they finally came across Dave's three stones laying by the side of the path, and yes, he had been right in describing it as being mainly painted red.

As planned they carried on walking past the boat, as if in deep conversation. Although both were looking at it closely memorising as much detail as possible. While trying to act like a couple of friends on holiday, and out for an early morning stroll and a breath of fresh air.

A few hundred meters past the boat they stopped for a few moments describing to each other in a low voice what they had seen, just in case either of them had missed something.

Along the side of the boat between its windows in big light green letters its name was displayed, 'Primrose Valley'. While the external paint job of deep red and dark blue stood out, as if making a bold statement.

They carried on walking until they were out of view from the boat. Then Eden used his mobile phone to ring his office back in Norwich, asking if they could find out who owned the 'Primrose Valley'.

Twenty minutes later, he was informed that it belonged to a Mr Clive Manning from Norwich. That was enough information and an excuse for them to board and carry out a search.

By mobile Eden spoke to the other officers further back along the footpath. Explaining that he and Dave would board the boat as holiday makers finding themselves lost, and wanting to know a few directions. If something went wrong he would call for help. If not they were to stay hidden until they both walked back along the path.

Walking back towards the boat, both agreed that there were no signs of life. A decision was made that they would knock on the door in the pretence that they wanted directions, the rest would be made up on the spur of the moment.

Stopping by the boarding plank, they tried to gain entry as quiet as possible. However, they were out of luck as it creaked and groaned under their weight as each boarded.

The door was in the middle of the stern area, and was leading forward via a central walkway up through the middle of the boat.

Standing by the door Dave changed his mind about knocking and asking directions. Instead he quietly got hold of the door knob, and slowly turned it. To their amazement, the handle turned all the way around and the door moved, as it was unlocked.

Once again quietly and slowly he opened the door inwards, until it was wide open. There was no sign of life, and so Dave called out,

"Anybody home, hello?"

After a couple of minutes, He once again called out,

"Hello, Hello Anybody there?"

There was no response. Dave whispered to Eden,

"Let's look around."

Slowly he led the way as they quietly and very slowly made their way up the centre of the boat. They were in luck as daylight was coming through the very thin lace curtains. There were certainly signs that somebody was living there. A small table had not been cleared after a meal. There was still food on one of the plates, and a mug was half full of what looked like and smelt like coffee. Dave picked it up and was surprised that it was still warm.

Before he could mention it to Eden, a shot rang out and Eden fell forward knocking Dave further forward, before he fell to the floor groaning.

The shot had come from the door area they had just walked through. Suddenly Dave saw somebody going through the doorway onto the stern of the boat, only to disappear onto the boarding plank.

Dave had to climb over Eden who was still laying on the floor, but at least he was moaning so he was alive. It took him a few seconds to make his way back to the boarding plank. Just enough time to see the gunman disappear into the bushes that bordered the footpath. He wasted no time in running all the way back to where the police officers were hopefully still hiding.

Thankfully they were aware that something might have gone wrong, having heard the shot. Dave told them to follow him as he ran back to where the gunman had last been seen disappearing into the bushes. He then grabbed one of the officers to help him with Eden and told the others to get after the shooter.

Dave and the officer boarded the boat, and made their way to where Eden had fallen. He was still laying on the floor although he was moaning in pain. As Dave had suspected he had been hit, and told the officer to ring for an ambulance as quick as possible. Upon inspecting Eden, he found that he had a bullet hole through the upper muscle of his left arm, and was losing a lot of blood. Grabbing a tea towel from the table he wrapped it tight around the wound, and decided to try and get him off the boat.

Eden could stand up and assisted them trying to guide him back to the doorway, and then the gangway. Although walking back to the pathway was not so easy. He was then sat down on the path, to get his breath. Plus, Dave wanted to see if the tea towel was still in place.

Knowing that the nearest the ambulance could get to them was at the Swan Inn. Dave decided to try and get Eden as far back as possible. But not before the officer had rang in again informing someone that the ambulance might have to send somebody with a stretcher on foot, South East along the foot path.

Lady luck was with them, as Eden at least could move his legs. Coupled to them standing either side of him for support. Gradually they made their way back towards the Swan. Although they had to stop on several occasions, as they all got their breath back. By this time all three of them were becoming covered with blood. Informing Dave that Eden was losing a lot. Hoping that in moving him, they had not made matters worse, although deep inside he believed he had.

They arrived at the Swan around the same time as the ambulance, and Eden was treated on the spot, before being loaded up and taken to one of the Norwich Hospitals.

Time for Dave to kick himself, realising that Eden and himself had broken a cardinal rule. That of, when you enter an un-secure room, you should always check behind the door before proceeding. After all this was the second time he had been caught out, failing to stick to house searching rules. Promising himself that there would not be a third.

Dave was convinced that the gunman had been behind it. There was nowhere else he could have hidden, as the interior was all open plan.

The other big mistake he had made was in ordering the Police officers to chase after the gunman through the bushes. If they had found him, there was no way they could have identified him. As Dave was the only person with a photo of him, and that was neatly tucked away in his wallet. He found himself uttering one of his favourite sayings of the time, 'A promising opportunity usually leads to a big disappointment'.

Upon reflection, it also a cured to him that maybe the gunman was not a very good shot, or was not used to handling a gun. In a hit and run incident, a gunman would usually fire at least two sometimes three shots at the target, and then run. Just to make sure that he had killed him. Dave was also surprised that at close range, the single shot had passed through Eden's upper arm. Where-as most people, who use firearms, are trained that the largest area to shoot at is the chest. Which accounts for most of the kills as the major organs are hidden behind the chest rib cage.

Eden spent a few un-welcomed days in hospital, although he had been very lucky. As the bullet had past right through his upper left arm muscle. Lucky in the fact that it was a clean hole right through the muscle. Usually some bullets slightly tumble as they pass though the flesh, leaving a much larger exit hole. While also taking a lot of flesh and sometimes small pieces of bone out with it. It was described by a doctor as a clean exit, as it had not damaged other parts of the muscle. Although he was going to have to accept that it would be heavily bandaged, and in a tight sling for about three weeks.

Once he was fit to talk and accept visitors Dave visited Eden on a couple of occasions. In the meantime, he had directed his right-hand man Peter Davidson to work closely with Dave. Which was welcome, as they had both got on well with each other, since he was taken into custardy for questioning, connected with the death of Clive Manning.

The first job he got Peter to do was to make copies of Michael Darcy's photo and to circulate them. Then it was all systems go to check as much CCTV footage as possible to try and track him down. At least they had a starting point, it being the Swan Inn.

Within hours Peter had been informed that Darcy had made his way across Norwich, although the trail had gone cold as he approached the Castle area. This was unusual as the castle and museum were one of the main areas in the city that attracted holiday makers, and large gatherings. A few years earlier the council had installed several more cameras, to help if problems were ever to develop. For some reason, they did not seem to be picking him up. Although Peter had concluded that he may be ahead of them. Having decided to go to ground for a few days. Therefore, he had given orders that special attention should be taken during the evenings.

After a week, Eden was allowed back on the case although it was stressed that it was light duties only. For once he would have to delegate tasks to others.

Dave had been given permission to work closely with the team. While all at the station had been informed that Dave was representing MI5. Having been personally involved in two earlier murders, it was hoped that he might be able to shed a little light on Michael Darcy's location. However, Dave had never met or even heard his name until just a few months earlier.

Dave asked Mr Jones to send him a few spy chips. Just in case it was possible to attach one to Michael or something he was carrying. Then they would be able to track him via a mobile phone. Being very small in size, and at a quit glance they could be easy mistaken for a coin or a battery. It made them ideal to drop into somebody's pocket or bag.

Came the big breakthrough they all needed when Mr Jones got in touch. After pulling a few strings higher up the chain of command, he was notified that Michael had been found using his mobile phone. Not only were they informed where he had used it, and what he had said, but now they had the phone details to help track him. Providing he did not remove its battery.

Apparently, that's what he looked like he was doing. As he was only on line for a few minutes at a time, and he was never in the same place. Although there was a pattern developing, as he seemed to be around the same area. That of the University of East Anglia Campus. Dave believed that he was trying to use the cover of hundreds of students who would be in and around the area. Although he even wondered if he was a student.

A quick check on the student list showed that there was no Michael Darcy. The race was on looking for names that might be Michael, but sadly there were no clues to assist them.

Peter Davidson decided to get in touch with the Social Services Foster Children Department, thinking along the lines that Michael might have changed his name to that of one of the families he stayed with. It turned out to be a long laborious task that took almost three days to compile. Even then he wasn't sure that he had a complete list of all the families involved. It was certainly harder than he had first thought, when he came up with the idea, and it was long.

Peter then spent the next couple of days going through the countless list of surnames of people who had looked after Michael. To make matters worse they were not in just one county, but all over the country. Even Peter started to feel a little sorry that he had been farmed out to so many different families.

He was hoping that his theory, that he still might be using Michael as his Christian name, along with any of the surnames he had listed.

Slowly as he worked his way down the list he started to lose interest, as he could see the bottom getting closer and closer. Eventually he reached the W's and was demoralised, to such an extent that he nearly called it a day. However, it was a good job he carried on to the end, as the last on the list was Mr and Mrs Wright. When matched up with the University of East Anglia student list, there was a Michael Wright.

It was still not the time to start jumping for joy, as he now had to prove it was the Michael they were looking for. Although it did go through his mind that maybe the Wright's were the only family who he liked. Maybe they had treated him well.

So as there was not a mix up, he got the Social Service to send him a photo, even though it might be out of date.

Peter decided to visit the University taking a copy of Dave's photo with him. A brief visit to the main office and he knew he had the right man. The office directed him to his classroom and looking through the glass door, there he was sitting at the back of the class.

Peter was hatching a plan, and waited in the corridor for the class to be dismissed. Upon which as the students left the classroom he joined in and walked along side Michael, and secretly dropped a spy chip into his jacket pocket. He then dropped back allowing all the other students to pass him, and for him to make his way back to his car. Where he checked the application on his phone to see if it was picking up a signal. Feeling pleased with himself he set off back to the Police station, and a meet up with Dave.

Unknown to Dave the latest version of the spy-chip, as well as sending out a signal that could be detected and followed. This new version also allowed for conversations to be heard and recorded. For law and order, it was a giant leap forward in its fight against crime. Even its appearance had been made to look even closer to that of an ordinary flat battery.

Peter's idea was to follow Michael and to try and arrest him when there were not too many people around. They knew or believed he was armed, and were not sure how he might respond when challenged. Having already shot Clive Manning, they did not want anybody else ending up in the morgue.
Chapter 23

St. James Street Norwich.

9:36 am. Saturday 8th August 2015.

Peter Davidson had discovered that Michael was not actually living within the University campus. However, he was sharing accommodation with a few students in a nearby rental. Probably using the students as a means of cover.

Peter was also under the impression that he was a person of habit, and he believed he could predict some of his movements.

Eden, Peter and Dave hatched a plan to try and follow him while he was not on the University grounds. Hoping they might be able to corner and arrest him while on his own. To arrest him at home there was a worry that he might be able to destroy certain information that later might be of help to the Police while in court. It was also believed that others staying at the accommodation could innocently become involved, if things were to go wrong.

Eden would be running the operation from the Police Station, and listening to the spy-chip. While Peter and Dave would follow him on foot. A day was chosen when they believed he would take a route heading for a local shopping area. They would both follow him at a distance, but on opposite sides of the road. Each would be independent of the other, although keeping in touch with each other and headquarters via mobiles that were permanently open.

Came the day and everything seemed to be working to plan, as Michael was correctly believed to be heading for the shops. Peter was about one hundred meters directly behind him, while Dave was on the opposite side of the road, weaving his way through what seemed like a larger than normal crowd of shoppers. Something they had not been taken in account during the planning stage. The news was to get worse, as they came upon a few market stalls set up on the side of the pathway. Once again, the congestion had not been foreseen. Anyway, the plan was in action, and not much was mentioned over the mobiles other than stick to the plan.

With the large crowd of shoppers Dave found himself dropping back from Michael. Then just as a small narrow park appeared in the middle of the road his vision of Michael was restricted to almost nil. The park could best be described as a green area with seating. About forty meters wide and laced with trees producing shade to those that chose to sit amongst them. Some were reading, while others were talking to each other or just feeding the birds. Dave could see through most of the trees, but occasionally they were closely grouped and blocked his view. Which meant that he lost sight of the target for a few moments.

Lady luck was with Peter, although a hundred meters behind he still had Michael in view, but he was also having a problem over taking the pedestrians around him. Realising that the density of shoppers around him was starting to become a bit of a problem. Believing it not to be a good area to try and make an arrest.

Suddenly Dave had to ask Eden were the target was, having watched him disappear behind a small group of trees, but had not appeared out the other side. After listening to the spy-chip Eden reported to Dave that he could hear a car revving its engine around his position. Dave crossed the road and entered the park, hastily making his way over towards an area where he hoped he might be able to see Michael.

He wasted no time in locking in on the revving car. Lady luck was with him as he looked through the park railings and saw the car almost doing a wheelie away from the kerb, and there was Michael just in front of it.

Not wanting to lose him again Dave climbed over the fence and jogged across the road trying to get closer and keep him in view. Although he was now in front of Peter it was still hard to keep him in view.

After listening to the spy-chip Eden asked both if they could see an ice cream van ahead, as he was picking up the jingles they used to attract customers. Both responded that they could not see or hear one from their location. The alarm bells started ringing in all departments, something was not quite right, and for now nobody could come up with an answer.

Having got in front of Peter, Dave was first to spot Michael turn left into an alleyway. By the time, Dave arrived at the junction, he was confronted with a long narrow empty alley that looked like it was the back entrances to an array of warehouses. What stood out even more was that nobody was in view.

Before progressing further something in the back of his mind was telling him that he should wait for back up. Another bad sign was that the alley looked like it had a dead end.

Dave was determined to arrest Michael so he could be brought to trial, if only to clear his own name.

Not wanting to waste time and possibly loose Michael, Dave had to quickly rethink his strategy. Deciding to process up the alley, while looking for clues as to where he might have gone. For some reason, it never dawned on him that, he might be waiting for him behind one of the doors that lay ahead.

Unbeknown to Dave he was walking into an on the spot thought up trap. Michael had found the spy-chip in his pocket the night before. Although at first, he thought it was a normal flat battery. Although finding it in his pocket made no sense, he could not remember purchasing one or of placing one in his pocket.

After spending the evening trying to think of reason why it would be in his jacket pocket, he was about to give up, but decided to undertake a few Goole searches on line. It did not take him long to realise that it was a tracking device.

However, by the morning he had made up his mind that he would get rid of it. Although, not sure how or when, but he would use the exercise to try and see who might be following him.

While walking down the road heading towards the shops, Michael had his right hand in his pocket touching the spy-chip. Occasionally he looked behind him, but was not able to pick anybody out as following him. That left him wondering where and how he was going to dump it.

Approaching a car that was revving its engine by the kerb side. He noticed its side window turned down a few millimetres, as if to let fresh air inside. Although at the last minute he changed his mind thinking the driver might hear or see it drop into the car.

Next minute a lady approached him, carrying a large open top shopping bag.

Without thinking he took the chip out of his pocket, and dropped it into her bag as brushed past him. Without stopping or even slowing down, he continued walking. Turing up the next alley-way was his way of checking if anybody might still be following him.

For some reason, Dave decided to try the first door on the left-hand side of the alley. To then move about four meters across the alley, and try the door on the right. He was worried that while crossing sides he was out in the open, a good position to be fired upon. Assuming that Michael was more than likely to be armed.

He was surprised to find the first couple of doors were locked. Catching him out as he expected one of them to at least be open. However, he did note that the doors were all set back from the alley, by about a meter of brick work. At least giving him a little cover, as he slowly made his way up the alley. The second door was also locked, as was the third and fourth.

Suddenly as he stepped back into the alley to make his way up to the fifth, he was caught out in the open as a figure suddenly stepped out of the tenth door way, pointing a pistol at him and asking,

"I think you might be looking for me, although I have no idea why."

Before Dave could answer, the sound of a shot rang out from behind him. To which Michael started to double up in pain, but not before he returned fire and hit Dave in the upper left leg, knocking him of balance and dropping him to the ground.

As Dave had stepped out of the doorway, Peter had entered the ally-way behind him, and upon seeing the gun being pointed at Dave, his basic instinct took control informing him that Dave's life was in danger. Knowing that Dave was not armed he responded appropriately. To which Michael was wounded, and rushed off to hospital, in an ambulance along with Peter as an escort. While Dave followed in a second ambulance.

It turned out that Michael was mortally wounded in the chest. By the time, he arrived at the hospital he had fallen into a coma, and was never to regain consciousness.

The Police hierarchy were not pleased, hoping they might have been able to question him, to clear up a few un-answered questions. Using that well-known tried and tested tool known as 'Hindsight', Peter was severely criticised by his superiors for shooting first, and an inquiry was launched. Although Dave had always believed that anybody who is seen carrying a weapon, it must be assumed that they will use it. Time lost in making a quick decision, can sometimes mean the wrong life is lost.

However, Dave's record of never having fired a shot in anger and of killing somebody was still intact. A record he was very proud to own and intended keeping.

While MI5 was also happy in the fact that it had been proven that Clive Manning had been selling information to a foreign terrorist group. They had not caught them, but at least they had been exposed by the Dutch Police and Interpol. After which they were chased out of Europe. Which in turn shut down the selling and passing on of security information that could have placed the United Kingdom in great danger.

However, Dave was sad and upset having wanted to talk to Michael. To try and find out what had gone so badly wrong in his life, that had driven so much hate within his brain, to murder both his parents.

Dave had seen a lot of good and love in his Mother Susan, who he had been in love with for couple of years.

Dave ended up in hospital, after the bullet passed through his leg. Although it was later discovered that the bullet had also broken his femur bone.

It became a busy round of everybody who ever knew him, dropping in for a visit, and that included his employers Mr Jones and Mr Smith. As one can imagine it soon became a boring stay in hospital.

One morning while Dave was sitting in a chair looking out of a window by his bed. Sadly, the only view he had was that of a local churchyard across the road, and of a few people leaving flowers by some of the graves.

However, it was better than just lying in bed looking up at the ceiling. Letting his imagination run away with him. His inward thoughts were positive, believing that at least he was laying on the right side of the road. At least people were not laying flowers around his bed.

The silence was eventually broken when a nurse came to see him, and asked if he was up for just one more visitor. Dave just nodded his head hoping it would be the last, as he had been informed earlier that he might be released later in the day.

When he looked up he found himself looking at the first female who had wanted to visit him. Starting with her feet he slowly looked up her body heading towards her head.

Upon reaching her face he got the shock of his life, as he recognised it to be Lorraine, and she was on her own. Wow was she a pleasant sight for sore eyes he thought.

She learned over and kissed him on the side of his cheek, and whispered,

"I've come to pick you up." that left him speechless for a few seconds.

"Never been picked up in my life."

"How about another kiss, first?" He asked.

To which she leaned over to once again try and kiss him on the side of his cheek, but just as her lips were about to touch his cheek, he moved his head slightly so that her lips eventually met his. A long drawn out kiss then took place.

With that he needed no more visitors. Calling for the nurse,

"Bring my cloths, I'm going home to enjoy a long private convalescence with an old school friend."

## The End
Other books by this Author

**'** **Almost Total Recall'** an Autobiography by Terry Aspinall. Who grew up in Stowmarket and the Teddy Boy gangs of Ipswich? Later to serve in the Royal Marines Commandos and saw active service in Borneo. Was involved in Hang Gliding during its early days of development in the UK. Played in several Rock N Roll bands around the world, before immigrating to New Zealand and a few years later to Australia.

**'Correcting History'** the invention of the Modern Hang Glider seems to have been shrouded in mystery and incorrect information for many years. It is only now with the luxury of hindsight, very fast computers, IT media and our constant quest for more and more information, that the story has been slowly unravelled. I'm not sure if it would have been possible fifteen or twenty years ago, as earlier hang gliding historians found out at their cost. As they had published articles and although read by many, nobody seemed to have picked up on what they were saying, or did not care.

**'Royal Marines 350 Years'** is a brief history of the Royal Marines that were formed way back at 11.58 am on Tuesday 28th October 1664 by King Charles II. It describes some of its history up to the present day. Along with its traditions that have moulded Royal Marines into what has always been one of the finest fighting military forces in the world. Those that they fought in battle were so impressed with their courage and skill that their countries formed their own version of the Marines. To copy is the best form of flattery, a way to acknowledge just how great the Royal Marines were respected. Once A Marine Always a Marine.

**'Landguard Fort'** Royal Marines Museum'. Royal Marine museum is within the Landguard Fort complex situated at the southern end of Felixstowe (Suffolk). It is the last place a foreign invading force landed and was defeated on the British main land. It was also the very first battle that the Royal Marines fought on land, having been formed only three years earlier during 1664.

**'The British Hang Gliding History'** is an updated history of how the Hang Glider was invented in Australia during 1963, and of how it arrived in the UK to be manufactured and flown for the first time during 1972. This book is a shortened version of the successful website of the same name www.british-hang-gliding-history.com there are working hyperlinks to the BHGA early Hang Gliding magazine 'Wings' and the BMAA early Microlight magazine 'Front Line'.

**'Transfer Music from iPod to Computer'** This is just a short easy to follow free article that I'm sure will help many people to move their music collections from their iPod and iPads to their computers. I do not use legal or illegal software that usually bring loads of other rubbish into your computers. It will only take you a few minutes to learn and a couple of hours to move folders and files around on your computer.

**'An Easy Guide to Self-Publish Your E-book'** this short book will enable you to self-publish your work in E-book format with Smashwords.com. Its valuable information that can get you started on a literary career. It's short, basic, and very easy to follow. It covers the so-called tricks of the trade and mistakes that I learnt along the way. Explaining to the reader a rough idea of what will or won't be accepted with their publication.

**'Aldeburgh'** **Photo Memories 2014** is a collection of photo's that were taken during a short holiday stay in the town during September 2014. It's my way of being able to remember the trip and to also allow my friends and family to enjoy what Aldeburgh offers. My wife grew up in Aldeburgh and could not believe the changes that had taken place over the past thirty years. People who keep this E-book record will be able to use it in the future as further changes take place as the town changes and grow.

**'Birkdale Road'** A photo album capturing the different colours that are annually displayed, and enhance the Birkdale Road just east of Brisbane Australia. As with most countries one can usually tell the time of year by the vegetation that nature displays all around us. I get a great sense of pleasure looking at the different colours that enhanced the Birkdale road, and of their constant changes that take place during the different seasons.

**'The Fabulous Spawlszoff Brothers'** a fictitious story, that is based on actual funny events that the author has experienced during his 50 years in the music industry.

**'Johnny Morris and the Convertibles'** is a fictitious story that is based on actual events that the author has experienced during his 50 years in the music industry.

**'Chasing Shadows'** this novel is about Englishman Michael J. Thompson. Who joined the Australian Army so he could serve in Vietnam during 1968. There were only a very few British who got to fight in this theatre of war and Michael was one of them. Michael had his own ideas of jungle training and fighting that he had learnt in other theatres of war. Where they had worked well and saved many lives. He always wanted to help others survive in a hostile environment. Where your next step could kill you if you walked into a bobby trap or ambush. His ideas on cross border patrols where later to be adopted by other western countries. However, his special teams were at their best on information gathering patrols. His golden rule was 'To see but not be seen, and eat nothing red'.

**'The Kansas Rascal'** Ten years after his wife died, Australian Bradley Newman is living a lonely life. Never being able to accept her death has made it hard for him to find another partner. His love of music and magic has been his saving grace. Accepting that he will never find that special person that could replace her. After his son sets him up with a computer he becomes excited at the prospect of learning a new technology. Then by chance during 1998 while on line he meets a girl from America, and falls in love with her. However, he has not the courage to tell her of his feeling. He secretly flies to America to meet up with her, but walks into a lot of trouble that he did not see coming. Feelings of love can sometimes blind the beholder.

**'The Autumn Reunion'** A fictitious story of a school reunion that tempted James through the painful journey of having to choose one girlfriend above another.

**'The Adventures of Henri and Charlie'** is a very young children's short story about the authors pet Peach Face Parrot and Canary that escape from their cages and are taken on a wild ride, with no hope of returning to the security of their own cages back home. In this story, the birds talk to each other.

**'Matthew Returns'** Matthew has been discharged from the British Army after serving 22 years. He returns to Suffolk and the small countryside town of Stowmarket, in which he grew up. At first, he finds it hard to settle back into the life he once knew. Finding it hard to obtain employment with skills he had picked up while serving in the Army. However, a shock awaits him when it comes to finding himself a girlfriend.

**'Unexpected'** John is in a great relationship with his partner until the day she disappears. His friends and the locals turn against him, thinking that he has done something wrong. Luckily, he befriends somebody who takes him for who he is. However, he is in for a shock and an ending that he did not expect.

**'One of A Kind'** Chris Lawler was born into a military orientated house hold and his Officer Father forces him to join the Army that leads to the SAS. He goes on to Join the French Foreign Legion. To later find himself in Vietnam and later Angola. Eventually joining the Royal Marines and serving in Northern Ireland **.**
