CHAPTER 3

The Calling — 2098 A.D.

THE COOL TEMPERATURE inside the cab felt good. Chantelle closed her eyes and leaned her head back. The world had changed a lot in the last hundred and seventy years, but people were basically the same. Most went about their lives, intentionally oblivious to the scheming of the ambitious politicians and military leaders. Doing so allowed them the security they sought but humanity paid a great price for ignorant bliss.

We could be so much more if people cared. Then what purpose would Healers serve? I'd be out of a job.

It was an amusing thought. At the moment, though, she needed to focus on her mission. She had found her patient and had spent several days watching her.

Watching nothing is more like it. Whatever is concealing you cost a lot of money. That can only mean the government is involved. And why are you so interested in that woman and dog?

She could feel the energy change whenever the two appeared. Today it had spiked higher when the dog peed. Chantelle barely contained her laughter. The dog's aim was precise. When Chantelle sensed the woman was leaving, she decided to make her own mark. Following her to the alley, she stopped short of the entrance. It would be foolish to enter.

"I'm not a fool... and neither are you," she said and turned to walk away. Waves of frustration flowed from the alley. Tomorrow would be interesting.