When the two agents entered the room to escort Stuart and Catherine to the laboratory, they found them laughing hysterically. Stuart was dressed in the white tracksuit provided by the agency. The outfit was way too big for him. He held out a hand to introduce himself to one of the agents but the sleeves of the top were so long, all he offered the man was a floppy cuff hanging from the end of his arm. This sent Catherine into another laughing fit which in turn started Stuart off again. The frivolity was short-lived as a loud bang shook the windows of the room. Stuart raised his hands to his head and ducked slightly. One of the agents told them not to worry, reminding them the explosion was expected and everything was under control. The second agent spoke into a tiny device in the palm of his hand before turning to his colleague and offering a slight nod. “Ok, doctor, Stuart, if you are ready we can head to the lab and meet the others. Just stick close behind me and I’ll guide you to where you need to go.” They followed him out of the room and into the corridor. He removed his pistol from its holster with his right hand, letting it point toward the floor on his right side. “Just a precaution,” he offered.
His colleague removed his weapon also and followed to the rear, constantly looking back over his shoulder. Stuart’s heart began to pound so hard he wondered if the others could hear it. He felt like a condemned man being led to his execution, every step bringing him closer to a fate over which he had no control. He looked down at the loose material hanging over his hands. It wasn’t funny anymore, just pathetic. He rolled up the sleeves so his hands were free. No sooner had he done this he felt a warm hand take hold of his. He turned to see Catherine at his side. He offered her a half smile and in return she squeezed his hand lightly. She looked as nervous as he felt.
The walk to the lab seemed to take a lifetime as they followed the agent through a maze of corridors lined with doors. No one had suggested they should keep quiet but not a word was spoken, the only sound being the occasional screech as the soles of their shoes rubbed against the shiny surface of the flooring lining the corridors. Every time they reached a corner the agent leading them would hold up his hand to halt them while he poked his head around to ensure the path was clear before they proceeded.
They eventually arrived at the lab to find two more agents flanking the entrance. One of them reached for the door knob and pushed it open. Stuart was certain this was not the same room they had visited previously but he immediately recognised the Harmoniser booth and the computer banks. To his surprise the room was empty. Catherine shrugged at him and turned to one of the agents who looked equally confused. The second agent was talking into his palm. He finished his conversation before turning to inform them there had been a slight change of plan and the others would join them shortly.