The Mantis Synchronicity - Book Five - 22. Chapter 22 - New Target, New Plan

“We went through Abernathy’s place,” Lahari informed Olona. “S’Kay and I searched his shop and residence, but he wasn’t there. It was nearly sunrise, so we ditched the plan.”

Olona lit a joint. “I thought this was gonna be easy and done with,” she mumbled. She looked up at Lahari. “Will you two go back tonight? Should I go with you this time?”

“We had to break in,” Lahari replied, “so I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s now wary and prepared for someone returning.” She shrugged and the black spines that stuck out from her shoulders flexed. “In hindsight, maybe we should have stolen something or messed the place up. We never had to leave behind a staged scene before, to throw the Messiahs off from what we were doing to them. If we couldn’t achieve a goal, we simply left. That’s what S’Kay and I did last night, but Abernathy will know someone broke in.” Lahari frowned. “He may suspect someone’s onto him. For all we know, he may come after you, since you’re probably the only person he’s aware of who knows about his weapon.”

Olona was surprised by the idea, and she perked up. “You think so? Well, that would be convenient; I know exactly what he looks like. I could take him out immediately.”

“Oh, right, you do know what he looks like, don’t you?” Lahari replied. She paused with a thought. “Well then, I have an idea!”✪