The Scarlet Crane: Transition Magic Book One (The Transition Magic Series 1) (22 page)

He paused for several seconds. “If you die tonight, those plans won’t be worth shit.”

Her face sagged as if paralyzed by a stroke. She started crying quietly, her nose running, tears mixing with the snot running across her lips, down her chin.

“I promise you, I will not ask a third time. So before you answer, think of all you value in life.”

Again he paused. “From whom do you get your orders?”

She stared into his face. “You cocksucker, you’re no better than they are.” She took a deep breath. “Wu De. His name is Wu De.”

“Where’s he located?”

“I’ve met him once a year since we set up the … business arrangement. Always in Shenyang.”

“How long have you been dealing with him?”

“Five years.”

“What exactly do you do for Wu De?”

“Promise me—”

“No promises. What do you do for him?”

Her face remained slack; now her posture slumped to match. “I buy kids for him. They can be boys or girls but must be six or seven.”

“What countries?”

“Vietnam. Somalia. Thailand. Myanmar.”

“How many each year?”

“Originally, ten. Last two years, twenty.”

John had promised himself that he’d avoid getting emotional and stick with the facts. His commitment didn’t survive his rising sense of disgust. “So you bought, what, seventy kids like they were furniture and shipped them off to be beaten, raped, killed?”

Upland shrugged. “They’re worthless trash. No one gives a shit about them. Their lives will be miserable until they die. All they do is breed more useless kids and spread disease. I’m doing the world a favor.”

John felt like he’d been punched. And felt himself reacting the way he always did when he was threatened. Or when someone he loved was threatened. He wanted to strike out, destroy the threat.

He stuffed the emotions, returned to his questioning.

“Give me the names and locations of the slavers in each country.”

She rattled off the information without hesitation.

“How much do you get paid?”

“Five thousand US per kid, plus expenses. Way more than the normal market. I make a killing.” Pride crept into her voice.

Heat crawled up the back of his neck.

“How do you deliver them?”

“Varies. Containers, trucks, planes. Then by plane to Shenyang.”

He struggled to hang on to the contents of his stomach.

Six year old kid goes for a walk. She’s grabbed and dropped into a life of brutal horror.

“What’s the program’s code name?”

Upland shrugged. “I don’t know. Once Wu De referred to it as Crane, but that was only one time.”

The picture in Quince’s room. A scarlet fucking crane. He was trying to give us the program’s name.

“How do you arrange a meeting?”

She described a simple but ingenious process that left no trail. She’d call an 800 number and punch in a six-digit code that meant she’d be in Shenyang in two days. They met at the small park next to the North Pagoda.

“What about Wu? Old? Well-dressed or a bum? Smart? Does he speak English?”

“His English is better than mine. He’s young, maybe mid-twenties, cocky. Likes expensive Western clothes, always wears cowboy boots with silver tipped toes. Seems like he has lots of money or an unlimited expense account. He told me his father is some sort of political bigwig.”

“Does he meet you or send an intermediary?”

“Just him. There’s a bench near the entrance to the pagoda grounds. I wait there. He always comes up from behind and scares the hell out of me.”

“How does he know it’s you? What’s your signal?”

She sighed. “A bright yellow silk scarf. I have a bright yellow scarf covering my head. If I’m not wearing the scarf, he knows to stay away.”

He had what he needed. It fit with what little they’d learned in Bangkok and Hanoi.

He stared out over the cliff at the lights of the twenty-first-century city below.

There are more kids sold into slavery today than at any time in the history of the world. How can we have progressed so little?

He raised his cane and pressed it against the back of the chair.

I’ll see you in hell.

He shoved the chair over the edge.

Hoeryong

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

Senior Colonel Zhi, Major Eng, and Thanna sat at a small, round table in a closed room just outside the children’s dorm. Zhi had just finished talking to a gathering of all the children in the school. He’d said that he was sorry for their treatment by Colonel Rong, that Uncle Eng was replacing him and would protect them. After he’d finished, he told Uncle Eng and Thanna that he wanted to talk with them alone.

Zhi gazed at Thanna with a gentle expression. “I understand from Principal Chu-hua that Colonel Rong abused you quite severely.”

Thanna shrugged and said nothing. Zhi looked like a kindly grandfather with his soft voice, gray hair, and round glasses, but Rong had also seemed gentle until the bloody confrontation in the Chinese countryside.

“I’m sorry he did that. It was very wrong, and I never would have permitted it. Thanna, do you know why I allowed you to attend our school?”

She shook her head.

“Because you understand Mandarin and can help care for the Vietnamese children, including those you call your little ones,” Zhi said. “I hope that’s something you still wish to do, because they need you. But I’ll understand if you don’t, and will arrange for you to return to Hanoi if that’s the case. Will you stay and help us?”

Thanna wanted to believe him, but years on the street had taught her that the smoother a man’s words, the greater the danger.

You’ll never let me go home.

The seed of an idea began to form in Thanna’s mind. A way for her and all the children to be safe, to go home.

When she remained silent, Zhi asked, “Well, child. Which do you prefer?”

Thanna whispered, “Grandfather, can I learn magic if I stay?” She noticed Zhi’s eyes flick to Eng and return.

“Of course you may. You and the other children in Transition may use magic together. Uncle Eng will teach you.”

Thanna nodded. “And can we have ice cream? All of us?”

Eng laughed. “I like how you bargain. Yes. Every night, after dinner.”

She looked at the two of them and forced a smile. “I want to stay.”

Hoeryong

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

Zhi gazed at the frozen fields of North Korea sliding by on the other side of the Mercedes’ rear passenger window. Dusk’s failing light painted the barren landscape in shades of gray. He shifted his focus to Colonel Rong’s icy posture behind the wheel.

Rong had collected Zhi and Eng an hour earlier at the Hoeryong military air terminal. Rong had been sullen and silent, his only interaction a scowling salute as they disembarked from the Gulfstream jet. That, and a grunt when Zhi introduced Eng—Major Zhang—as his new aide. Eng sat mute in the front passenger seat, eyes forward, obviously uncomfortable with the tension between the two officers.

Zhi contemplated letting the silence extend unchallenged as a test of Rong’s stubbornness. But he had much to do, and a sulking Rong would only slow him down.

“I don’t like our situation any more than you do, Rong Ming. My revered grandfather once told me the wise adapt themselves to circumstances, as water molds itself to the pitcher. Perhaps that is something for us both to learn from our ancestors.”

Rong shook his head. “I’ll work with you because I’ve been ordered to. But you are not to be trusted.”

Zhi sighed. “He who does not trust enough, will not be trusted, Colonel. However, I’ll accept whatever you’re willing to offer.”

Zhi returned his gaze to the frozen, snow-covered plains. “What has transpired during my absence?”

“I believe Comrade Wu already informed you, Senior Colonel. I captured and returned the children and Principal Chu-hua to the program.”

“And my former aide?” Zhi asked.

Eng needs to understand Rong is not his friend.

“I shot him in the head, stripped his clothing, and left the body in a field outside Hoeryong. Some farmer will uncover his bones in the spring.”

Eng turned and stared at Rong for several seconds, then faced forward. Rong appeared not to notice.

“And the children and Principal Chu-hua? What of them since their return?”

Rong hunched over the steering wheel. “Chu-hua will hardly speak to me. The children are equally reluctant.”

“How many are in Transition?”

“Five. Plus the Hanoi girl you approved. She has a few days left; the others just started.”

“How is the girl? Can we use her?”

“No. She should be repatriated. She’s insolent and a trouble maker. The other kids follow her like puppies.”

Zhi smiled.

Any kid you hate that much is already useful.

“What else?”

“Comrade Wu expects the two of us to call first thing tomorrow. Beyond that, I’m to make daily reports. It seems I’m not the only one who doesn’t trust you.”

Zhi snorted. “You may report to Comrade Wu every hour if you wish, but I command Crane, Colonel. I’m here because Comrade Wu lacks confidence in you. You will follow my orders without hesitation or complaint. Do otherwise, and the farmer will find additional bones in the spring.”

Something else Eng needs to hear. I am the master of his fate. Not Rong. Not Wu.

“When we arrive, please inform Principal Chu-hua that I’ll meet with her at seven tomorrow, in her office. After our meeting, I’ll want to visit with the children. Then we can place our call to Comrade Wu.”

“Very well, Senior Colonel.”

“One last thing. Assign Major Zhang the quarters adjacent to mine.”

“I’m in those quarters, Senior Colonel. I vacated your apartment when I learned of your return.”

Zhi laid his head against the seat and closed his eyes. “Return to your billet in the Attainment Unit.”

* * *

Zhi rose, showered and dressed, choosing a sport coat and casual shirt rather than his uniform. He left his apartment and strode the short distance down the hall to the adjoining unit. Eng answered after one knock, wearing his dress uniform, complete with the single star insignia of his new rank. Zhi wondered how he’d managed to obtain the emblem in the little free time available since his promotion.

Zhi said, “You need to wear something more friendly. Put on your exercise sweats. We’ll get you some civilian clothes later.” He waited by the door while Eng changed.

Eng emerged wearing dark blue sweats, a pair of Nike running shoes, and a puzzled expression. “Much better,” Zhi said. “A uniform would scare our principal and the kids. We want them to like you. Trust you.”

Eng smiled and nodded. “I understand, Senior Colonel.”

“We are partners in this enterprise, you and I. Call me Zhi Peng when we’re alone. Unless you object, I’ll continue to call you Eng.”

“Thank you, Zhi Peng. I’m honored by whatever name you choose.”

A willing sycophant.

“Excellent. I’ll show you to your post a little later. Right now I want you to attend my early meetings. I encourage you to seize any opportunity to befriend Principal Chu-hua Li and our young charges. You must appear secure and comfortable with your position, as if you are politically connected.” Zhi smiled. “Your sweats are consistent with such confidence—how would you dare dress in this manner if you didn’t have a powerful patron?”

He led Eng from the building and across the icy compound to the Education Center. About half-way there, he stopped, turned to Eng, and yelled over the wind. “I’ve taken a decision. Colonel Rong can no longer work effectively with the children. You will take his place in preparing them to use magic and conducting the sessions.”

Eng shivered and stomped his athletic shoes in the foot-deep snow. “I don’t know what that means.”

“You must help the children learn the ritual words for magic and guide them in saying the words properly. Do it well, and I’ll see about another promotion.”

Rong must go, and you are my best alternative
.

Eng nodded. “I will do my best.”

“Of course you will.”

Zhi turned and hurried to the warmth of the Education Center. Their arrival caused a stir among the building’s staff, who hurried to get them hot tea before showing them to Chu-hua’s office. They found her standing at attention behind her desk.

Zhi waved her to her chair. “Please, Principal Chu-hua, sit, sit.”

She took her seat—back rigid, hands clasped on her desktop, eyes pinched, lips in a thin, tight line. Zhi and Eng settled in the two chairs facing her desk.

She said, “Senior Colonel, I—”

“Tut, tut. One moment before you say anything. Let me introduce Major Zhang Meng. He is an extraordinarily talented young officer with influential friends. Friends who are concerned about the welfare of the children. The major’s job is to ensure you and they are treated well and your voices are heard.”

Chu-hua nodded. Zhi watched as she glanced at Zhang’s feet and clothing before she settled on his face. “Welcome, Major Zhang.”

Zhi couldn’t recall ever seeing Eng smile, but he did so now, his expression warm and open. “Thank you, revered Teacher. I’d be honored if you’d call me ‘Eng.’ It’s a pet name my family uses. I hope we become close.” He relaxed against the back of his chair.

There are layers to this young man worth exploiting.

Chu-hua’s face cracked into the slightest smile. She nodded.

Zhi said, “My reason for visiting is to beg your forgiveness for the unfortunate way you and the children were treated.”

Chu-hua’s eyes widened; her lips formed into a small “o.”

“This morning I will order the Repatriation Unit closed. Children will be placed in an orphanage after they emerge from Transition and be treated with the respect they’ve earned for their contributions to the state.”

“But won’t the children still die using magic, Senior Colonel?”

“I’ll be open with you Chu-hua Li. No secrets. Just prior to Colonel Rong’s interference, I solved the mystery of how to use Transition safely. Children need no longer die if my procedures are followed with care.”

The stiffness in Chu hua’s posture had begun to melt.

Zhi continued. “Some risk remains, yes. But I promise that Eng and I will do all in our power to protect the children.”

“What about Colonel Rong? That night, he scared them so terribly. He …” She composed herself. “He put his pistol in my mouth and killed your aide in front of us and said he would kill us all if we didn’t do what he commanded. He’s a—”

Eng interrupted. “Dismiss that horror from your mind, Chu-hua Li. Only you and I will work with the children to conduct magic.”

Principal Chu-hua’s eyes filled. “Thank you, Eng. Senior Colonel.” She breathed deeply. Her face was still drawn with tension. “I fled because I feared for the lives of the children. My children. I didn’t understand why our country needed their lives.”

Zhi said, “I honor your commitment.” He brushed a hand across each of his shoulders, clearing invisible lint. “This is water already spilled. I know you remain loyal to our cause and the state. Now you and Major Zhang can ensure we succeed while protecting them.”

At least until I replace you with someone less … emotional.

“Now, shall we visit them? I’d like to get Crane back on track as quickly as possible.”

* * *

Zhi stood before his office windows, enthralled by the violence of a swirling snowstorm that had appeared without warning.

His visit with the children had gone well. They were spooked by the events of the last few days, but calmed as they sensed Principal Chu-hua was more relaxed. They warmed immediately to Eng. He and Eng had talked privately with the girl from Hanoi. She was a calculating little bitch, typical of street urchins, but had agreed to help with the Viet children. Even better, she’d asked to use magic. Zhi had directed Eng to include her in the group that would kill Colonel Rong.

There was a sharp knock on his closed door. “Senior Colonel?”

Zhi crossed to his desk, took his seat, and adjusted his collar. “Come.”

Rong entered, saluted, and stood at attention. “Relax, Colonel,” Zhi said. “Take a seat.”

Zhi punched the number for Wu’s secure line into the speaker phone.

Comrade Wu answered, wheezing and coughing. “Hello? Senior Colonel?”

Zhi saw the sick old man in his mind’s eye, cigarette in hand, sitting in the center of a smoky cloud. “I’m prepared to report Comrade. Colonel Rong is with me.”

“Get on with it.”

Zhi summarized his visits, emphasizing that Major Zheng would now be the one responsible for guiding the children’s use of magic.

Rong’s face darkened like the storm outside Zhi’s windows. “Guiding the children is my role, not some wet behind the ears—”

The phone line crackled with Wu’s cough, interrupting Rong before he could launch into a full rant. “Did we not agree, Senior Colonel, that Colonel Rong is the second in command?”

Zhi said, “We did, Comrade, and he is. Unfortunately, Colonel Rong so terrified Principal Chu-hua and the children that they are too afraid to work with him. This is why he’s been unable to get the program restarted.”

“That’s absurd,” Rong countered. “Given time I can get them to do what we want.”

So. Wu hasn’t disclosed his cancer to this stupid fool. We have no time.

Zhi glared at Rong. “You slaughtered my aide in front of them. You threatened their lives. They will never trust you again.”

Zhi addressed the speaker phone. “Comrade Wu, six children will be in Transition during the next two weeks. If I can calm them enough to begin training, we can restart the program whenever we wish.”

To cure your disease.

“It will take a few days to know how the children respond. However, I assure you—magic will be impossible if Colonel Rong is the one working with them.”

Wu’s responded without hesitation. “Then proceed, Senior Colonel. Do you have a role in mind for Colonel Rong?”

Zhi told Wu about his promise to place children who survived Transition in an orphanage. “This is essential to obtain Principal Chu-hua’s unreserved cooperation. Colonel Rong’s role will be to get the facility up and running.”

“I don’t like this idea of an orphanage,” Wu said. “Those children are security risks and no security can be perfect. Word of what we’re doing will get out.”

A smile creased Rong’s face as Wu voiced his objection.

Zhi said, “I beg your indulgence Comrade Wu. Before I proceed with this conversation, I must ask Colonel Rong to leave my office. I have something for your ears only.”

Rong protested hotly. “Absolutely not. I—”

Wu sighed loudly, “Don’t be tiresome, Rong Wing. Go take a leak. The Senior Colonel will let you know when you can rejoin the call.”

Rong stormed out of the office, slamming the heavy mahogany door.

Wu said, “I hope this wasn’t just a stunt to further embarrass the Colonel.”

“He embarrasses himself,” Zhi said. “I can’t take the risk that Colonel Rong will divulge my plans to Principal Chu-hua to undermine me.”

Wu asked, “What plans are those?”

“I agree with you about the orphanage, Comrade. I mean for the facility to be temporary until I obtain a replacement for Chu-hua. Someone more loyal and less sensitive. Once I have a new principal, we’ll eliminate the children in the orphanage and return to our prior policy. Until then, we must have a credible institution to hold them, one that Chu-hua can inspect and be satisfied with.”