ENCOUNTER by Hep Aldridge (bill gates books recommendations .txt) 📕

somehow intertwined with your search. I felt your life might be at risk after overhearing the Cardinal’s phone conversation, in some part because of my research findings. That is why I am here. I cannot be a party to such a plan. I am a researcher and a man of God; I provide information, but not to be used to kill another human being. I simply cannot… The little man sat almost trembling as he spoke.

“I am very glad to hear that,” I said, “and I do appreciate your concern. So, what is the Vatican’s end game here?”

The priest continued, “I am sure the knowledge and physical technology the library may hold would be highly prized. But, more important to them, I believe, is the source of the stranger’s longevity. I fear if they find that, a faction within the Vatican, which I know exists, would use it for purposes that would destroy the Church as we know it and who knows what else. I am afraid the Cardinal bishop is deeply involved in this group and has a lust for power.

“Do you realize the power that immortality could provide? A Pope, for example. Immortality could be represented as a gift from God, a miracle, and in the eyes of his followers, granting him absolute power over all things. And the technology, unlike any known to man, could lead to control, not only of the Church and its believers but also to the world. No, Signore, this is not something I want to be part of or see happen. They must be stopped, and I am afraid,” he said in a halting voice, “this task falls to you and your friends.”

I pondered his statements for a few minutes and looked at Doc, who said, “He’s right; that would be disastrous and have consequences worldwide.”

I turned back to the Prefect, who was looking about nervously, took a breath as the enormity of what had just been said started sinking in, and said, “So, Father, what can you tell me about these men, this Marco the Cardinal bishop talked to?”

“I did some checking on my own before I came. In my position, I have many confidential resources not available to others. I can ask questions without the fear of reprisal or being found out. The men this Cardinal bishop hired are very dangerous. They have worked for him before on things that require action with no questions asked, taking care of problems with extreme prejudice. Some of the men are ex-military, they are mercenaries, and they have no compunction about killing. You and your friends are in grave danger, as am I if it is found out I came to warn you.”

“Is that a possibility that you could be found out?”

He thought for a moment, “Possibly, yes, but not likely. I leave later tonight for my return to Rome, so my absence should not be noticed. I have additional safeguards in place should I need them, so do not worry about me. Be aware that these men are well trained and have unlimited resources at their disposal. As I said, they are very dangerous.” He looked around again and said, “I must go now,” he rose and turned to face Doc and me. “God go with you, my sons; I will pray for your safety and the safety of your friends,” and with that blessing, he blended into the crowd and was gone.

Doc and I sat there a few minutes, not saying much, and then Joe’s voice came over the Comms, “Your visitor has left the park.”

“Roger that,” I said, “could you tell if he was being followed?”

“I don’t believe so; he hailed a cab and left the area within minutes. I saw no one else looking like they were interested in his presence or departure.”

“Good, head back to the hotel, and Doc and I will meet you there. We’ve got a lot to discuss.”

We hailed a cab and rode back to the hotel in silence. When we got out, we stood at the hotel entrance, and Doc looked at me and said, “Well, that was a hell of a bombshell we just had dropped on us. Talk about a nightmare scenario.”

My mind was reeling, “No shit,” I said, “Just what we needed. It’s bad enough we’ve got these new guys that want to kill us, but the potential for world domination looming in the distance… and we may be the only ones that can stop it. I mean, for crying out loud.”

Doc chuckled, “Yeah, no pressure.”

I was shaking my head as we entered and headed for the bar. I thought, well, at least it’s not Monday…

The rest of the gang was there, including Reggie. They must have called her on their way back. Good, she needs to hear this too. Two cold beers were sitting on the table, waiting for us. I picked up mine and said, “Pay the tab and meet in my room, five minutes.” I turned and headed for the elevator. Five minutes later, we were all seated around the table in my room—expectant looks on all the faces.

“Okay, boys and girls, here’s the latest bombshell.”

Doc interjected, “You guys are going to love this,” he said sarcastically.

With that preamble, we filled them in on the details of our meeting. Everyone sat quietly, waiting for us to finish. When we did, we sat back in our chairs and surveyed the faces around the table—everything from grim acceptance to open-eyed “wow” and much in-between.

O’Reilly spoke first, “So, you think this guy is for real? I mean, this sounds pretty apocalyptic.”

“I know,” I said, “It’s a lot to take in.”

Reggie looked around the table and said to the group, “How the hell do you guys get yourselves into these situations? You have been in the shit ever since I met up with you, but this is just wacko. I mean, I’m down with this whole space invaders/library thing, but this religious apocalypse, really?”

“Well,” Doc said, “the pieces seem to be