The Shiva Objective

SIX

When Rakesh came for her, she was ready. She had borrowed a tourist's pen and a sheet of notebook paper. Found a quiet spot in the gardens and wrote up what she intended, then went back in the mausoleum to wait.

Rakesh appeared behind her when she was in quiet meditation. "It's time," he said. "And may I offer you congratulations?"

"You may not," she said, standing swiftly. She handed him the folded note. "So," she continued as he read. "What's the mood up there in the penthouse? Davarius crapping a brick? Can't be too happy that half his hunters are toast."

His eyes wide, lips trembling, Rakesh finished reading. He looked at her a long time, meeting her questioning look. Come on, she urged. You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Slowly, he nodded to her. Crumpled the note, then tapped his lapel, and pointed to his ear. She understood. They were listening in, but her guess was likely correct — they couldn't have any cameras in here and didn't see her pass him the note.

"He is actually impressed," Rakesh said in his usual droning business tone. "And thrilled. You are the best adversary the hunt has ever had."

"Well, doesn't he know how to make a girl feel loved?"

"New members are taking interest and want their chance to hunt the toughest game. He is already preparing dossiers on all your colleagues — and seeking out other potential contestants."

Nina nodded absently. "All right, what now? I know the entrance to the underground caverns is through the mysterious well on the second level, an archaeological feature no one's been able to adequately explain."

"Now," Rakesh said. "I take you there, where the guards are in our employ. They will let you in. And you only come out if you beat the game and make it to the statue of Shiva." He sighed and continued, reciting monotonously. "You will not have a map. The passageways are lit by dim halogen lamps. It is… an extensive labyrinth, but if you are careful you can find your way to the center, to the final arena. There is no other exit but this one. The hunters are already down there, at their positions, waiting."

"Got it," Nina said. "And of course, along the way there are things I've already seen in my visions: bear traps, trip wires, concussion mines and other nasty surprises."

Rakesh gave a hopeful smile and handed the crumpled note back to her, mouthing the words: Thank you. And then he said simply: "Good luck."