NEVER FURTHER

Good morning, Bridget, Carter cheerily spoke, oh my I have got a busy day today Patricia is off on one of her digs.

Then this afternoon we are having a picnic gathering over at Jerico. How did last night go?

Bridget searching for the adequate words to reply. Paused for a moment flicking her long ginger hair over her shoulders.

Before blurting out awful! It went awful; I cannot comprehend why I agreed to go.

Carter looked at her kindly, you went because you are a good friend.

Austin whose football crazy had already purchased two tickets for himself and Rick.

He was so excited and looking forward to the football match, you did what friends do for each other.

Bridget with no animosity in her voice made light of her dreadful evening, well I will have no sympathy for Ricks slipped disc,

that he got from rugby training. It is bad enough he acts so macho,

I’m surprised he doesn’t ask us to watch him at rugby training.

They both chuckled.

Oh, look is that the time, Carter with some urgency headed towards Jerico. Just then Reason entered the kitchen, morning Bridget how was footy.

Bridget still feeling jovial replied with sarcastic humour, apparently the club is up for sale, loyal fans were not enamored by this.

To express their feelings the stadium of fans took up standing positions while chanting stand up cos were not for sale.

Attempting to remain in my seat from behind I could feel spluttered spit landing on my hair. Followed by an angry poke in the back suggesting I stand and be loyal.

I am only 5feet 1 inches tall not big enough to refuse this giant of a man. I thought men watched football because it was fun, oh boy was I wrong.

Obviously, I immediately took part in their ritual, not so much as a fan but in fear of my life.

As for the next ninety minutes I remained visual, I was at the ready to stand at arms when required.

I had no idea at all what was going on, there were green shirted men & red shirted men.

They appeared to kick the ball in one direction, then after a break kick the ball the opposite way.

As I left with my life, I assume the right team won.

Oh, look Carter has left her bag, she was rushing as Patrica is off on a dig somewhere up north, I think. I better take it to her, see you later Reason. Calling Carters name, Bridget found her in Patricia’s room.

Hi Bridget, I wanted to say goodbye to odd ears., but Patricia has already left. Patricia wore either one or two odd earrings, so as a child Carter referred to her as grandma odd ears.

In my rush I have spilt coffee down my top, so I am going to use one of Patricia’s, as there is a lot of picnic food to be prepared, I don’t have time to go home.

Taking a folded top off the neatly packed shelve, her eye wanders to a coat hanger with a loose long blouse with pockets.

With the fact of it being blue which is her favourite colour.Carter thinks it will be Ideal for the picnic.

Putting it on stands in front the mirror, muttering perfect.

Once in the kitchen caravan, Carter gives a sigh of relief as many people are there already preparing food.

A hive of activity all around to background music were making sandwiches.

Agnes a kindly resident passes Carter a cold glass of lemon juice.

We have got this Carter go sit outside and have a break. Agnes slowly with her arthritic joints brings her out a cheese and cress sandwich.

Saying just sit and take five minutes for yourself.

Carter putting her hand into the pocket of Patricias blouse that she was wearing pulls out a piece of paper.

Thinking please no not a to do list today. The last thing she needs today is a long to do list.

“Dear brother. A German architect Felix possibly aged about 74, who after purchasing the land, designed & built a property. He started his design with the intensions of living in it.

Halfway through the build changed his mind.

He also changed his design for the building. It was redesigned as one large house divided into two three-bedroom flats. With one shared kitchen for the use of both flats.

It is a large open plan kitchen plenty enough room for the six people it is intended for. In one flat live three-woman Carter, Bridget & Kirsty.

In the other flat lives three men, Austin, Reason & Rick.

They are all similar in age, Kirsty the youngest at 24, Carter the eldest at around 30, the other four varying between those two ages.

Perhaps a unique choice of environment’s to build, in a setting next to a neighbouring a commune.

By no means any type of cult, no religious beliefs, no fences or extreme rituals. Looking much like a caravan holiday site, owned by Carter’s grandmother Patricia.

Thirty years previous with baby Carter being born with speed, her father Eric driving her mother Joanne to the hospital with as much haste as labour was moving. Crashed the car, nearby emergency service’s pulled the remaining part of Carter from her dead mother’s womb. The remaining part being the babies torso as her head was already born. Carters cries were of great relief and joy to those on the scene.

With both parents deceased, her grandmother Patricia an archaeologist took the female child lovingly into her care, fittingly naming her Carter after her love for travelling the world on digs of ancient sites. And having a particular interest in Egyptian history and artifacts.

Also, it was using a mix of letters from her son Eric and daughter-in-law Joanne. Patrica a unconventional character has no interest in what city life offers. The speed of a city with everyone always in a rush to seemingly achieve very little.

In-between her extensive travels she enjoys spending her days at Jerico the name she has given her retreat,

The only rule of Patricia’s paradise is everyone plays their part

Well not so much a rule as everyone does this willingly. Some go out to work, while some prefer to stay within the commune having no interest in the corruption beyond its confines.

Theres plenty to do an orchard, large vegetable, herb & flower gardens.

A home school, an herbal first aid unit and just about every other facility the resident’s require or request.

The monthly open day sales of produce baked goods, jams, pickles, handmade crafts etc.,

along with regular and freely given donations by the residents maintain the running costs and future of Jerico.

Speak soon your brother.”

Carter doesn’t know what to make of it, what a strange letter. From a brother to a brother, Carter doesn’t know of two brothers.

Why would one brother be sending this private information to another brother.

Just then Carlos one of the residents Goes over to Carter. Hi Carter has Patricia left, yes, she left early before I got here.

This confuses Carlos as Patricia’s well used suitcase is still there.

That is not an issue reply’s Carter, she often goes with just a backpack, it is probably just a two- or three-day dig.

Although Carter has known her go on longer digs with only a backpack.

Carter knows her grandmother is a free spirit.

The picnic was as always, a great success, lots of laughter and food. The adults played games on the extensive lawn with the children, a relaxing fun afternoon was had by everyone.

The commune is always full of life, lots of hustle & bustle, Carter having trained as an accountant is Jerico’s bookkeeper. She is also the go to person with any issues in Patricia’s absence. The letter is on her mind, but finding time to revisit its content is paused with other commitments. Jerico’s birthday festival always starts with a picnic. Then the following week, a full-on list of holiday activities. Day one a music afternoon sat out on the lawn. With the many talented musical residents filling the air with beautiful sounds. Day two is an arts & crafts afternoon. Day three is sports & swimming. Day four is either flower arranging, wicker work or pottery. Day five sports with the children. Day six is a treasure hunt around the ground’s. Day seven a community feast.

And so, ends the annual birthday festival of Jerico being established by Patricia many years previous.

After the community feast Agnes who could see how tired she was, suggests that Carter go home to her flat and rest after all the work she’s has done organizing the celebrations. Carter too tired to oppose that suggestion agreed.

She arrived to find Austin in the women’s shared apartment.

He was waving a bit of cloth saying here it is I’ve found it. Carter asked where Bridget & Kirsty is, Austin replied not home, the door was unlocked, I popped in to find this, he started waving the piece of cloth again.

Carter extremely tired just said in a confused tone what? Austin explained Bridget must have put it in her pocket at football.

It’s lucky we won’t win the next match if I don’t wave it. Carter not too far from sleeping where she stood, remarked ok, I really have got to sleep see you later.

Carter slept solidly right through till morning.

Each morning throughout the months that followed she stood in for Patricia, still awaiting her return. The next celebration was Christmas and with joy & laughter the residents decorated the grounds. It looked incredible, all the lights & décor diverted eye’s from the cold, leaving a warmth in all their hearts. Carlos asked if anyone had heard from Patricia, no one had, Carter & some of the older residents all gave assurance that Patricia had done this sort of thing many times. She will be back when she has finished digging up bones.

When the birthday celebration festival for Jerico was once more upon them, even Carter started to question the whereabouts of her grandmother. Patricia had been away this long before as a younger woman, but never this long for many years. The excavation was somewhere up north, but it wasn’t unusual for Patricia to take her passport. As if she heard of some exciting dig somewhere, she would get on a plane to be there.

Carter sensed in her soul that her grandmother was fine, she knew that Patricia a capable independent woman. so, it wasn’t until the second year of her disappearance that she decided to ask the police to find out whatever crazy dig she was on.

The police were livid with the length of time passing without contacting them; Carter was the first taken into custody for questioning. Followed by each resident everyone who lived at Jerico.Carter trying her best to explain Patricia’s lifestyle to detective inspector Alan Dunbin, who was not impressed. The inspector requested Carter tell him a bit about Patricia.

She began well, Patricia’s 5 feet 7 inches tall, shoulder length brown hair with some grey in it. Stop yelled the inspector I have a photo; I do not mean her looks.

Over the following weeks as evidence was collected, Carter again explained that

Patricia’s bank account not being used is not necessarily out of character. Patricia preferred cash and would have taken money with her.

Carter was already aware no money was used by Patricia as she did all of Jerico’s accountancy, which raised D.I Dunbin suspicions towards Carter even more.

On further investigation D.I Dunbin informed Carter at yet another in police custody interview, Patricia’s passport had been used to go to Germany two years ago on a return ticket meaning she was back in this country.

Banging a file up & down on the table while firmly asking who does Patricia know in Germany?

Carter’s mind in such confusion nervously replied I don’t know, no one. Now listen very carefully to me Carter, checking jane does over the last two years with Patricia’s dental and medical records have revealed nothing. How can she have just vanished.

Carter gave a huge sigh of relief; she would not have coped finding out her beloved grandmother was a jane doe. Just an unloved, unidentified and unclaimed body. How many children did your grandmother give birth to? None she gave birth to none, its none she adopted her son Eric, but never gave birth to any babies.

D.I Dunbin a stout well-dressed man was fuming, again, you lie her medical records show she had given birth at least once in her lifetime.

Yet there’s no records of her baby anywhere. Did she conceive & give birth abroad? Did she? Answer me Carter, did she? Getting cross D.I. Dunbin walked around the desk to Carter, leaning his face so close Carter could feel his breath.

Is there a baby or child buried somewhere in the grounds of Jerico? Carter a meek woman who rarely answered back to confrontation sat, intensely crying said honestly, I don’t know. Where’s gran?

You obviously checked the wrong medical records; she adopted my dad & she has been my mum since birth. I’m her only child.

We’ll it appears she treats you as such, on checking her insurance policies she leaves Jerico & all her worldly goods to you. But I suspect you already know that.

Jerico had already been manually searched the by police and many of the residents belongings taken. Now it was time for the police dogs who were employed to sniff around the grounds, taking a much-concentrated time around Jerico’s private chapel & graveyard. After several weeks Jerico returned to somewhat normality, Patricia’s file remained open, there was only a brief police visit.

It was a beautiful day, bright sunshine with a cool breeze.

Some people find normality boring & hum drum, but Carter was feeling thankful for it. What she had said all along, what she felt in her heart was true, as home comes Patricia. Her grandmothers routine has always been to be left alone on the first day of her return. To rest, then greet anyone the next day, Carter ran with open arms to her, wrapping her arms around her saying your home it has been so long. With love and a returned hug Patricia quietly says, not now, not today Carter I will speak with you tomorrow.

The next morning Carter filled her in on all the events, with a huge smile saying I knew you would return. Going on to say apart from the police everything else had run as normal. You should probably see Carlos,

because he hasn’t been here that long, the eventfulness has unsettled him, he ask’s about you lots. Although he is enjoying the relaxed life at Jerico, I think he thought I was perhaps too laid back, a bit too flippant considering your missing situation. He was agitated, almost scared, I feel he was expecting the police to find a body.

Ok replied Patricia smiling, I have a word, try to reassure him. He is a gentle soul, perhaps he thinks he moved to some kind of killer cult. Carlos is a generous hearted man who always shows an interest in other’s activities. At times he may come across as overly interested, which I guess some might view as a bad thing.

Anyhow on to business, I noticed the gardens are becoming a bit overgrown, Carter suggested that as Owen the main gardener was getting on in years, not able to do as much. That she offers employment to Reason, who is looking for work. Patricia thought that a good idea, looking up from her paperwork to ask what’s he like, I don’t get to see much of Reason.

Carter replied he’s ok, he said he’s been made redundant, he is polite, friendly, yeah, he’s ok.

I think he has known hardship as he says he’s 27 but he looks more like 47, bless him.Shall I suggest he stays with us over in the flat or moves into one of the empty caravans. Patrica thinks either, whichever he prefers.

Reason choice is to live in a caravan at Jerico rent free, opting to accept a lower wage. That concludes the all the business.

Life resumes as normal and all at Jerico is calm, Carlos after his chat with Patricia feels much more eased.

Jerico’s calm is disrupted once again by D.I. Dunbin who arrives unannounced to check in on Carter. He is furious to find Patricia there. Bellowing at Carter, what you didn’t think to report the fact that Patricia returned.

D.I. Dunbin demanded an immediate conversation with Patricia. He was confidently informed by Patricia that her whereabouts were none of his business. So angry. he would have liked to arrest her, but having no cause to do so, he left without any information.

Carter commented “I don’t like that man” you’re not alone said Carlos arriving with Agnes and Bridget. Everything ok Bridget, yes, all good, Carlos drove me and Agnes to the shops. Got go pack these things away, with that the two women left accompanied by Carlos who was carrying their shopping bags for them.

Carter needed to speak with Patrica, to enquire, would Reason need to pay a part weeks rent on the flat as he had moved into a caravan part way through a week. OK mutters Patricia, yes, I do need to talk to you about that.

It was several days before Patricia had a free opportunity to do paperwork etc. Once a free day was found, they both sat happy & relaxed in the caravan office. Once all the usual orders of business were completed, it was on to Felix. Patricia calmly started the Felix agenda by saying Felix had died. She said it with so much hurt in her eyes, Carter could see her pain and instantly went to her with a hug, I am so sorry Patricia, how? When? Her pain was on display, she trembled while sobbing, quietly from her lips Carter heard I loved him, I truly loved him.

Patricia had known Felix for many years, they were more than friends, they were sole mates, who in years past had been lovers. Patrica confides in Carter that she had not gone on a dig, she had intended to,

but on hearing that her friend was dying, instead spent time caring for her dearest friend until he passed away.Carter spurts out numerous questions at once. Patricia intercedes Slow down Carter, where to start, he was a world-renowned architect requested by the gentry to design their homes.

He was married briefly to Linda, a somewhat unstable German school teacher. Who committed suicide shortly after giving birth to twin boys.

He was a good father, having a few relationships after her death, none of which worked out. Wanting to make a future for his sons, he decided reluctantly to register them into a boarding school. Meaning he could travel earning extreme amounts of money designing homes. All for the love of his sons having a good start in life. He was such a lovely man, tragedy struck him again when his son Noah lost his life in a freak boating accident, while on a school trip. This had life changing effects on his other son Ben.

He had complex mental health issues, became violent and in his late teenage years was diagnosed schizophrenia.

He turned his anger towards his father felix, refusing to take his medications, Felix felt no other option than kick him out.

Not an easy choice for any parent, using a private detective to keep an eye on his whereabouts, he knew that Noah moved around a lot, had spent time in prison for violent offences, then he lost movement of him.

Having no clue where he is. I spent some time searching, no success, he is off grid somewhere.

I wanted to find him, to tell him his loving father had passed away. I remained in Germany to organize his funeral, as there was no one else to do it. His solicitor requested to see me, it was for his will reading.

He left everything to me, his land, his properties all his money. I so wanted to find Ben perhaps I could help him.

The flat you live in now belongs to Jerico, it was built on some of my land, which he purchased at a very good price, with an understanding between friends if he ever wanted to sell it. I would get first offer.

Completely breaking down Patricia cries, now along with all his worldly shackles its mine, I rather have Felix back. Patricia now sat crying on the floor, Carter sits down beside her, longing to supply the comfort she so badly requires, but not knowing how to. She just awkwardly pats her gently, with much pain inside, seeing her grandmother like this.

With Patricia still in the process of mourning her dear friend, it was with no words spoken that the conversation rest there for now.

Carter sensing Patricias need to sit alone, left to take an ice filled drink to the flowerbeds where Reason was working in the heat.

These seasons blooms were looking fantastic; Carter rested on the grass a while admiring their scent and beauty.

Such an array of vibrant colour, with only the silence broken by the industrial work of a bee or two. An insect vital to the world yet often feared by its sting. A bee pollinates roughly a third of the food we eat.

Patricia’s hurt continued during the weeks that followed,

Felix’s ashes now rested forever beneath the ground in Jerico’s graveyard, knowing Felix would not have liked a cold headstone, the ashes had been buried beside a wall, on the wall a stone plaque. It just simply read Felix, no age was engraved into it, after his death in Germany Patrica noted without saying a word that his age was incorrect.

On realizing the true number of his years were more than she had been told by him. She thought back to first meeting him; they had an instant connection. Yet she had said in a passing conversation with him, that her intentions were not to be with anyone with more than a five-year age gap to hers. She had a childhood of men much older than

her. Falling in love with her, she now assumes this small lie was to protect the love he so clearly had for her.Knowing everything she did about him, he was right their age gap had only served to strengthen them.

It was a sunny day, while Patricia & Carter sat together on a bench in the graveyard, from behind them a shadow blocked their brightness.

Turning to see, there behind them stood D.I. Alan Dunbin.

Good morning, ladies, do we have an appointment enquires Patricia. Smugly the reply, oh no ladies, no appointment necessary.

Would you like to talk here or at the station, Carter thinking to herself, “I really do not like this man at all”

Would you like to come to our office for a cold drink inspector? I will come to your office, but no drink thanks you.

Patricia’s first reaction is, I will arrange everything, assuming Felix must need some loose ends tidying. As she spoke the stern looking inspector firmly says. No doubt, of course Patricia replies.

Pacing around the inspector suggests he recaps the situation. You Patricia go missing, claim to have been nursing your friend Felix Kraus until his death. Staying on to see to all his affairs. Gently Patricia whispers he was my love, curly hair. The inspector starting to get agitated repeats “curly hair”? Patricia with tears running down her face repeats yes curly hair, the translation of Felix is Blessed, and the translation of Kraus is curly hair.

My friend blessed with curly hair. The inspector losing patients snarls did he have curly hair. No not really Patricia sighs.

Still snarling while looking over at his constable he bellows, then why are you writing that down. Slightly smiling Patricia mumbles Alan translates as equestrian, do you like horses inspector.

Inspector changing his stance continues with his recap, then you return here. Two days ago, a murder enquiry has opened for the dead body we’ve recovered. And guess where the trail leads? No guesses than I Shall I tell you. It leads me right here to your paradise. I shall be taking statements & requesting D.N.A samples. Starting first with you two ladies,Carter became panicky whose dead? What’s going on? The inspector still pacing around paused first to look at Carter while quizzing her, you tell me who the corpse is?

Go on make a guess? Saying the same to Patricia once he had paced over to her. Neither woman had any idea, straightening up his stance rather like someone on parade he clapped his hands while announcing Benjamin Kraus. Son of Felix Kraus, Patricia felt her legs weaken beneath her as she feebly fell to the floor.

Carter who rushed instantly to her was told to sit back down, how did you say he passed? The inspector pronounced each of his next three words slowly and concise “I did not”. Moving on ladies, your rooms will be searched first, followed by the grounds. I expect you both at the police station tomorrow at 9am sharp to make statements. Patricia who had no dislike of the police, certainly had an intense dislike for inspector Dunbin’s attitude, on her advice along with legal representation both gave no comment interviews. Patricia in no uncertain terms stating to the inspector that if his attitude were better so would their cooperation be. Everyone at Jerico existed in harmony, spoke to each other with politeness, were cracks appearing in her loving persona? The inspector was no fool, on swallowing a proverbial cup of sweetness tried a different approach.

I do apologize if I have upset you ladies, was his initial greeting the next day.. Our enquiries lead us to believe Benjamin Kraus may have fathered a child or children. In truth. neither woman knew that and both shook their heads side to side, in a way to mean we don’t know. Talking through the hand he had raised to his face to avoid a sneeze, came the words, we know he moved around a lot, also that his father Felix Kraus had set him up a trust

fund, estranged from his father he could access this through a solicitor.Which he seems to have done as it is empty.

One last question, do you know of a person called Alwaze Bodford, both women again shook their heads. Ok ladies, thank you for your time, I’ll be in touch.

Patrica was asked to attend an interview with D.I. Dunbin, he firstly informed her it was a voluntary chat, that she was not under arrest and free to leave at any time.

His manner more approachable than previous meetings with him, for now Patrica this is an off the record chat.

The DNA evidence identified DNA that did not belong to Benjamin, we found no matches on our police data base so tried again for familiar matches.

We already have your DNA sample on record from requesting it from you on your return from your mysterious travels. Returning after leaving the room to get two coffee’s he continued.

Our data base suggests that your DNA is a distant familiar match. Asking around the streets where Benjamin hung out to, most there reluctant to speak, but with a few cigarettes and cans of cider, the name Alwaze Bodford came up.

Do you know of her or him not a 100% certain if were looking for a male or female. How do you not know if this Alwaze is male or female?

Well, she has been referred to as both her and him.I don’t have all the answers yet, but I assume Alwaze fashioned a hair style and clothes that could be either. Patricia shook her head negatively, asking, you said Murdered, how? the inspector in a friendly tone said he was stabbed. He could see how puzzled she was, which confirmed his thoughts that she

probably had nothing to do with it.He had been an inspector for years, he could read a room., trying a new approach, he requested she tell him her life story.

Patricia knew it was the best thing to do and began. I was born into a cult in Romania; I don’t know who my parents are! Once a woman there gave birth the baby was taken straightaway, the mothers had no idea of the sex of their child only that it now belonged to the cult.

Nothing from the outside world came in, there were no calendars, clocks, newspapers.so I don’t know how old I was. Once I had started my periods, at the order of the ultimate lady, which was how we all addressed the woman who was in charge, I was raped.

I would have a hood made of itchy material placed over my head so I could not see my rapist.

I don’t know my age, guessing but I really don’t know perhaps somewhere between age twelve years or older. The inspector paused the interview with Patricia I think we should invite a woman support officer in here. She replied there is no need for that, honestly, I ’am fine.

Standing while slightly raising the back of her blouse said look that’s what happens if you’d disobey. Showing the branding on her back of a large capital D.

D for disobedient. Would you like to see burns or scars because I have plenty.

Enough said the inspector gently, enough for now I will drive you home. On the car journey Patricia told him about the birthing ceremonies. Just as the rapes the woman in labour has a hood placed over her head, then laid out on the field, while the whole community were summoned to watch.

All nursing mothers their expressed milk which got taken to the nursery for the babies. I can’t remember how many babies I had, I do not know if they were male or female, or if they lived or died. Look were here at Jerico let’s get you inside, Patrica thank you for talking to me, I will pop into see you tomorrow.

If you need support, I can arrange it. No thankyou ended the conversation with him

Patricia took some herbal medications and rested.

Inspector Dunbin arrived at Jerico early the morning, Him and Patricia sat on a bench beside the flower beds, watching the hustle and bustle of the commune rising. Going off to work some off site, some on site, the inspector being a hobby gardener himself remarked on how beautiful the flowers were,yes, I love sitting here she replied.

He followed on by asking if she were free that afternoon? Saying he had always wanted to walk the footpath through the forest. A forest not belonging to, but adjoining Jerico. Patricia consented adding it is a beautiful walk she had done many times. During the walk the inspector revisited the previous day’s conversation, with the sole aim of knowing if Patricia remembered anything else that might help him. How did you leave there? Oh, Bode and I escaped together, we crossed borders to make sure we were further enough away.

Bode? the inspector asked, Felix, we were both renamed and given surnames as we had none once we reached Germany. My birth commune name was Eve.

Every child born in a year had the initial A, the following year B then C and so on. I think it was for ultimate lady’s reference. Something like that any way or might have been monthly or on a full moon the initial changed, I can’t remember.

In Germany we received care, medicals, blood tests and dentistry. We were giving identities, birth certificates and surnames. We knew because my name initial being E and Bodes being B, that we couldn’t be the same age.

We were given ages 5 years apart, I wasn’t aware until after his death, that because of something to do with something medical happening his age was altered. I had gone to boarding school in England, Felix remained in Germany. Having had walked quite far the pair chatting away while heading back to Jerico. The inspector noting that Patricia had never seen the Forrest from the opposite far side, said then that’s a date for our diaries, we will drive and come in from the other end next time.

While Patricia and Carter attended to the accounts sat in the caravan office, Carter sang a little tune “grandma’s got a boyfriend hip hooray” no I have not I am just trying to help find out what happened to Ben.

I ’am told his body is still evidence, once the murderer is caught, I have permission to bury him here at Jerico. So, if there’s anything I can help with, I will do so.

The residents at Jerico continued with pleasurable life’s, unlike Patricia who felt drained, who carried the burden of knowledge that the residents did not have. Her mind which had settled from the past was once again full of anguish.

Things that were once buried now haunted her sleeping. She was relying more on prescription drugs as her once choice of herbal remedies would no longer suffice.

She had never researched that old cult online before, now sat looking at her computer screen she mumbled in disagreement with its commune name “the ultimate’s church”, for she knew this to be wrong, for the name of it was etched in her soul “the united ultimate empire”.

It reported how an estimated 2000 residents lost their lives there, mostly on the final day when the evidence concluded they had all doused themselves in fuel, then set themselves alite. Flames were seen for miles around, only a few survived, many badly burnt died later in hospitals, most died at the scene.

It was a welcome interruption to walk outside on hearing Carlos calling her name. after Carlos enquired if there was anything she needed in town and left. She sat on the bench outside her caravan gazing all round at her paradise while thinking about the familiar DNA, it must mean a blood descendant of hers survived the fire, going on to kill Ben, but why, it just doesn’t make sense.

The thought that a child she birthed could do such a thing was of great torment to her soul. A child born into the cruelest of circumstances. Patricia felt an overwhelming sense of guilt; her mind tried to tell her that this crime was not hers to own. Childbirth had happened to her through a force of her circumstances, not from a choice she made. But a choice her mother had made when joining the cult. She wondered if there was evil in her DNA or had her mother joined in hopes of finding life’s answers. As so many cult members have done before.

Thinking back to something Felix once told her, “Your never further from a solution than you think you are. And saying out loud never further she went back inside.

From boarding school Patricia attended collage then university, she became a renowned leader in the field of archaeology traveling the world on digs, doing lectures, writing & promoting her books.

Her and Felix married but not to each other, Patricia married a fellow archaeologist, Ralph.

who had passed away, having not been gifted with any children they adopted their son Eric.

Eric was a joy, a bright eager to learn child, he showed an enthusiastic interest in engineering. Always inquisitively taking apart and putting back together his toys. Well mostly putting back together, often some parental input to do so was required.

In Patricia’s younger years she always opted for a commune in preference to a hotel, staying in many weird and wonderful camps during her many overseas digs. Some required a dress code, others requested that guests attend their on-site church services.

Thankfully never again any run by the amount of evil instilled as there was in “united ultimate empire”.

Recapping in her thoughts over and over, which had occupied her mind for months, Patricia thought of Felix having had two boys, it took her thinking to a letter she had received a few years ago, from a brother to a brother.

Her first thought was to inform inspector Dunbin, deciding against it as it made no logic at all, one died as a child, the other is the murdered body.

Setting it completely aside did not introduce it at their next meeting.

Instead saying you know a lot of me, what about you! Do you have a family?

He responded you know I can not divulge such things, especially on a murder inquiry. Quickly back at him she enquired so I ’am a suspect. No, you are not.

I know it is not your open to the public market day but wondered as a colleague has retirement drinks this afternoon, I came to ask if I could purchase a bunch of those amazing blooms of yours.

Patricia asked Carlos to please find one of the gardeners dismissing him with that is not my department.

Before you go inspector, I looked at the online reports about

“The united ultimate empire” I found a report about Alwaze, apparently, she was one of the recused children that survived the fire.

I thought you said some homeless people gave you her name. Did you not see her name yourself when you read about the cult online.

The report read that because she was so young she couldn’t master a new name, with most of the cult dead, it was decided to let her keep the name Alwaze.

You mentioned a surname for her, at the cult no one had a surname, what was it again I’ve forgotten. I cannot talk now Patricia, I’ll come by one day next week perhaps we can go out for that forest walk, we’ll talk then.

Very quickly can you think of anyone at Jerico who comes over as a bit dodgy you know suspicious. Anyone here asking too many questions, shrugging her shoulders Patricia replied no I don’t think so, although I do know some police officers fitting that description.

Carlos asks a lot but not in any suspicious way, he asks cos he cares.

The inspector whilst walking away repeats Carlos, ok I’ll check on file to see if he has been interviewed.

Patricia calls after him he has, yes inspector he was interviewed before I returned. With a chuckle called out don’t you go frightening my residents away. Getting in his car called back no worries I won’t. see you next week.

Inspector Dunbin reported back to Patricia that he had informally interviewed Carlos and found nothing suspicious about him.

He also re interviewed those living in the flats that Felix had built, Carter, Bridget, Kirsty, Austin and Rick. With much frustration the inspector had no leads at all.

Months passed and a judge ordered that with all his body evidence collected. That Ben’s body could be released to Patricia for burial.

Although Patricia did not know Ben, she conducted him a beautiful and moving burial service.

The residents’ at Jerico left Patricia completely alone, as they knew it was what she desired. To have a few days solitary in meditation to mourn the passing of Ben.

After a week had passed and Patricia had not been seen by anyone, Carter contacted D.I. Dunbin.

He seemed quite unalarmed stating the fact that this is not the first time she has gone on a wander, is it? Carter explained she has not gone on a dig, she would have said.

But the inspector showed only disinterest.

It was the following year when the far end of the adjoining forest was being surveyed by a building company that Patricia’s body was found.

There were no sniffer dogs or police searches, as inspector Dunbin had agreed with his superiors that there were insufficient funds.

Carter felt so broken, she was in disbelief that the police were doing so little. Once Patricia’s body had been released by the coroner she was laid to rest forever in Jerico’s church yard.

Patricia loved Jerico once commenting it is the only true home she has ever known. Although she loved her job, Jerico was most definitely the place where she was happiest.

Carter had designed a head stone which had two open wings. As Patricia had always welcomed everyone, it would be erected on her grave once the stone masons had finished it.

Later the same year D.I. Dunbin passed away from a short illness.

Tragically he had contracted secondly pneumonia, with his body unable to fight it, his family around him, he passed peacefully away in hospital. Carter held a service for him at Jerico, as she knew Patricia would have. Not a funeral, just a service to acknowledge his involvement in Patricia’s case.

Carter felt angry and assumed nothing else would be done to catch Patricia’s killer. That he or she would be free to kill again. Which left her feeling that life was very unfair.

Her assuming was incorrect as a D.I Jenny Blank who had transferred from a different police force arrived.Tasked at first with a serious assault case, which she felt the other police officers would soon solve, given the number of witnesses and c.c.t.v evidence. Her intuition proved correct as the perpetrator was soon apprehended. Pled guilty and jailed for eight months.

She explained to Carter that D.I. Dunbin had conducted himself in accordance with advice from higher up the food chain.

With reassurance she went on to say that she had read the file in detail and felt confident this case could be solved.

Carter interrupted saying I wasn’t saying anything bad about D.I. Dunbin, only that I ’am disappointed that more was not done.

D.I. Blank said we’ll I am here now to review the whole thing. Continuing she said I have heard that D.I. Dunbin could be abrupt but was I ’am also informed that he was a very trustworthy hard working police officer. He will be greatly missed at the police station.

D.I. Blank was herself an honest, hardworking police officer, on reading slowly and carefully through the file she came across an issue she found extremely disturbing.

Which was D.I. Dunbin had off record added his own DNA to be tested. Could it have been put in the wrong file by mistake?

She felt her only option was to add his name to her list of people to investigate. Thankfully that list wasn’t too long, as her superiors reminded her that there is more than just that crime to work on.

But regardless her focus remained on the murders of Ben and Patricia. Also, on a cold case from 25 years ago of a reported missing man.

Cecil Fordman now missing for quarter of a century, being the fact that his last known location was Jerico, the inspector added his name to her list.

D.I. Blank with intense concentration continued investigating thoroughly she concluded that D.I. Dunbin did in fact trace back to the ultimate lady empire cult. He had been one of the rescued children.

Nothing in anyway led her to uncover any evidence suggesting that he had any involvement in the two murders.

So far, her only theory was that he was innocently seeing if he was related to Patricia in anyway and did not want that known.

On her next visit to Jerico, Carter asked why are the police still not giving her answers regarding Patricia’s murder? The inspector explained that they were not revealing Patricia’s cause of death yet, as their hoping the murderer might slip up.

Carter remembering a letter, asked D. I Blank if D.I. Dunbin had any siblings. Although Carter had no reason to be suspicious of inspector Dunbin something about him made her uneasy.

She replied not that I ’am aware of, but being born in that cult situation he may have some that he was unaware of. why do you ask? Carter told her of a letter from a brother to a brother that she had read years ago. The inspector curious said I don’t recollect reading about that in the file.

Carter and the inspector uncovered the letter in Patricia’s room, which had not been touched since her murder. All her possessions positioned as she had left them. The blouse that Carter had worn poking slightly out of the opened wardrobe door.

The air filled with the faint smell of Patricia’s perfume. A vase that had once held flowers from the garden, now only caged some rotting stems, their petals strewn where they fell, on her bedside table and on the floor. A single framed photograph adorned the wall; it was that of Eric and Joanne holding Carter. A piece of fiction, as this had never been possible. Patricia with no skills of her own to do so, had baby Carter photo shopped into the picture.

After reading the contents of the letter, D.I. Blank enquired why was this not given to the police at the time. Carter muttered I didn’t think it was relevant, and I think I’m right as Patricia never handed it over either.

The inspector while using one of her fingers fiddled with her teeth, not biting her nails, but that sort of motion. Then suggested that if it had no importance then why Patricia hold on to it.

Asking can I take it with me with Carter agreeing the inspector left.

The 25-year-old case of the missing man Cecil Fordman was once again closed; there was no evidence to suggest any connections to either Ben or Patricia.

The theory being he moved around from place to place staying at hostels and such like places. Jerico merely being one of the places he stayed at for a short time.

It was a busy time at Jerico; a large celebration of Patricia’s life was soon to take place there. Carter was expecting guests from all over the world, with Jerico unable to accommodate so many, the local hotels were filling up fast.

Residents were busily decorating the large lawn with lights and ribbons. A large screen erected to project Patricia’s many achievements. A huge marquee filled with tables and chairs, which would be serviced by an outside catering company, the task being too mountainous for Jerico’s meagre cooking facilities.

The day was a great success, filled with laughter and tears in equal measure. Carter’s only disappointment for the day, was due to all the run up days to it being so very busy. She had completely forgotten to ask D.I. Blank to return the in-memory book. Lots had written messages in it at Patricia’s funeral, she had hoped for many more anecdotes to be penned in it, as a keepsake of her beloved grandmother. She found some comfort in reading the funeral messages that had been written in. little funny memories shared by those who knew her. So many in writing had reminisced events during her many digs.

One telling of how a mountain pass bus driver had taken them to the wrong destination, and Patricia’s fury at missing a dig. Another of the group layering up with several items of clothes during an upset stomach adventure. On one of Patricia’s rare stays in a hotel room, she had put some very small slithers of gold on a bureau, the maid thinking it was dust vacuumed it up.

After the events of the day were done, it was enjoyable to relax together, Carter, Bridget, Kirsty, Austin, Reason and Rick. All sat chatting away with a glass of red wine each. Kirsty asked for her friends input, she had started a new job, one at an advertising agency.

Her induction was to prepare visual ideas on how to advertise some white lace lingerie. With help from her friends her idea remitted to her boss was. The lingerie laid on a bed of petals from the wild plant queen Annes lace. Her boss although not using that idea, liked her thought process. Giving her a six-month trial contract of employment.

Since Carter and Reason had both moved into caravans at Jerico, the six of them who once shared the flats together had not had much of a catch-up time.

They reminisced and laughed until early evening, it was just the medicine Carter needed. Reason suggested why doesn’t the six of them pack a picnic at the weekend and walk through the adjoining forest in their own remembrance of Patricia.

All approving it as a great idea, Saturday was settled on and the six all went to their beds feeling good. Friendship is a gift so well received when a heart is troubled.

It is an unspoken importance to know a person is not struggling to stand on their own.

But the saying best plans laid by mice and men arose. For numerous different reasons, only Carter and Austin were free to go,

They considered deferring it until the following Saturday, alas with neither having any other plans for that day.

They decided just the two of them would go.

Austin using a large stone had only hit Carter with it once, knocking her to the ground. When came a voice drop it Austin you are surrounded. Austin with his face full of angry menace. Holding the same stone that he had just struck Carter with above his head.

He ran towards D.I. Blank, he was shot dead at the scene by a police marksman.

Once his body and room were searched one single earring belonging to Patricia was found in his room. It had become hooked to his jumper during his attack on her.

He claimed he had tried to bury it in the flowerbed garden but was interrupted by Reason. So having to slip it back into his pocket unseen. Reason had caught him unawares knelt by the dirt, he quickly waved his piece of cloth saying here it is. With sleight of hand concealed the earring in it. This was later confirmed to be probable when Reason stated he could vaguely remember such an occasion.

With no other objects recovered from his room search it was left undecided wither it was a trophy or not.

Carter was taken to hospital by ambulance, with no life-threatening injuries.

D.I Blank filled in the missing pieces to her. Carter, you know the letter that you thought was irrelevant? Well, that solved this case.

Using Patricia’s remembrance book, I employed a handwriting expert to examine the handwritten messages of the eighteen residents who refused to give voluntary D.N.A samples.

At first, it seemed all eighteen of them had genuine cause to refuse, having concerns how and for how long would it be kept and where.

We now know seventeen of them had legitimate worries and one did not.

Doing a background search on Austin I interviewed his sibling. claiming he had not received a letter from him. I do believe that to be true, How Patricia came to be in possession of that letter remains unclear.

Austin’s mothers story is very much a tragedy she was recused from the cult fire.

Her legs so badly burnt that both were amputated in attempts to save her life.

Six months after her rescue she gave birth to twin boys.

She never recovered mentally from her ordeal spending the rest of her life in a mental health facility. She was deemed too ill to ever be released.

The twins were not fostered for the first time until the age of four years. Records conclude that giving prospective foster parents background information was the cause for this.

The two children unfortunately never found a forever home, spending their whole childhoods separated from each other between different foster parents and various children’s homes.

With the handwriting confirmed as that of Austin. I thought I would speak firstly with his brother before approaching him.

One of the first things to catch my eye on entering his flat was a piece of material framed behind glass on his wall.

I knew I had seen it before; I just could not recall where.

Then it came to me! I had seen Austin sat twisting an exact piece through his fingers, sat on a bench at Jerico.

Carter said that was his lucky piece of cloth he carried it everywhere; his football team wouldn’t win if he didn’t wave it.

Anyway said D.I. Blank, you need to rest Carter As you being kept in for observations, I will pop in again tomorrow to see you.

True to her word D.I. Blank visited Carter in hospital the next day, this time to tell her about her interview under caution with Austin.

Firstly, the pieces of cloth were two hanky chief sized squares cut out from the nightgown their mother was buried in.

Carter sighed saying that is so sad.D.I. Blank continued, the two sons had a piece each.

Austin claims he had no intention to harm Ben, merely to ask information. As we know now Ben was an unwell and complex person. Austin recollects that it was Ben who pulled a knife on him and started the fight. Austin in fear for his life wrestled the knife from him, he cannot detail the stabbing as he cannot remember clearly the event. But admits he stabbed him and out of fear ran.

Carter feeling so puzzled asked the inspector, but Bens postmortem showed familiar D.N.A to Patricia.

D.I. Blank sat in a chair beside Carters hospital bed, remarking how pleased she was that Carter’s injuries were minor and she would be discharged that afternoon. Extending her hand on to Carter’s arm saying I don’t yet have all the answers. As for the familiar D.N.A match Austin think’s there’s a possibility that he is Patricia’s grandson.

He feels angry that after Patricia and Felix escaped, they did nothing to save the others. His exact words are that they fled as far as they could even crossing boarders in their selfishness.

Carter is shocked, stumbling her words trying to ask does that mean she was possibly murdered by her grandson. Also, can you say now how he murdered her.

The inspector said yes Carter, I can tell you now. He used the same modus operandi as he did with you. I will tell you as you will hear it in court and on the news. Her postmortem revealed fifty-two injuries; he confesses to using a stone he picked up in the forest.

Rubbing Carters arm the inspector said don’t fear the trial I will be there with you. Carter still puzzled enquired how did Austin know about Jerico.

The inspector replied well, having had a life with no real ties or connections, Austin moved around a lot. He stayed here and there for short periods of time finding temporary work, then moving on to a new place.

Hearing of some seasonal fruit picking work in this area,

he found lodgings at the flats in JericoPatricia was always open about her past and on hearing bits and pieces

Austin could not believe the situation he was in.

Assuming in his mind that fate had brought him to Jerico to right a wrong.

The happiness he encountered all around him at Jerico, only served to heighten his plan for revenge.

Carter snapped at the inspector; you say that like you have sympathy for him. The inspector replied no Carter I just report the facts.

The unfairness of it did not dissipate for Carter, when the jury found him not guilty of the murder of Ben.

Guilty only of manslaughter.He returned from prison to court for Patricia’s murder.

The judge in his final statement reminded the jurors of Austin’s tragic life.

A life of pain and abandonment,

his barrister had already filled their heads with Austin’s hardships.

Justice did prevail and Austin was found guilty of Patricia’s murder.

Yet it was agreed this was an act of revenge on behalf of his mother.

A sons love for his mother is how the press chooses to print it. After taking time for the Judge to deliberate the day of sentencing arrived.

The judge declared that due to Austin’s life circumstances and time already spent in jail. That he would sentence him to twelve years in prison.

Carter with the support from Agnes, Carlos, Bridget,

Reason, in fact all the residents at Jerico, moved on with her life.

She stayed at Jerico and on the annual anniversary of Jerico being founded by Patricia, held the biggest festival Jerico had seen.

The purpose and highlight of the day were to rename Jerico, in honour of Patricia and Felix, using some of the letters in both of their names.

With pride Carter stood on the festival stage, into the microphone announced from today onwards Jerico will be known as Capri Life. Which means relaxed lifestyle.

The crowd clapped and cheered, while a new sign reading Capri Life replaced the Jerico sign.

Carter lived her unconventional life in happiness at Capri Life until the age of ninety-two when she passed away peacefully in her sleep.

She had held services for her friends who had passed away before she had. Agnes, Carlos, Bridget, Kirsty, Reason, Rick and D.I. Blank were a few amongst far too many. Each of their life’s and friendships important and celebrated by Carter.

D.I. Stefan Eveland replaced D.I Blank but took early retirement after being injured in the line of duty. Followed by D.I. Cody Devan who requested a transfer after several months off suffering from stress. Lastly D.I. Tracy Moors. Did D.I. Moors ever have cause to investigate crime at Capri Life, well, that is quite another story.

THE END