Originally posted July 2006
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Shadows
Part 1 (PG)
It will happen again! He will get all the credit for this!
The heat penetrates the shadows but doesn’t warm me inside. The roof will give in to the flames soon and will fall, making the destruction of the building complete. I am in the shadows…but even if I was standing with the watching crowd I’d still be in shadow…in the shadow of his so called “greatness”.
A deep breath to calm the anger draws the smoke in, burning my throat. The irritation caused is strangely comforting as it complements my feelings inside. Staring blindly in to the flames I let my mind soar –let it free to plot and to scheme a way to show the world what I am capable of. To show them that I can be great, greater than him…
My mind focuses in on Murdoc, the one time star of HIT that had a near perfect record before he deserted. There was one target he couldn’t eliminate – MacGyver. One way to escape these shadows is to do something extraordinary. Something like destroying the indestructible! ***********************************************************
MacGyver looked up from the pencil he was trying to balance tip down, and frowned at his friend and boss.
“What? No way!” he groused
“But MacGyver…It could be Murdoc!”
“Pete. All you know is that “someone” heard that “someone” heard that “someone” from HIT has been sniffing about.”
“Mac – Last week there was a hack into the personnel files. It could be related.”
“Well, you see – If it is related it proves its not Murdoc. Murdoc knows my file. He has no reason to hack in to it”
“Ok so if it’s not Murdoc… HIT no longer trusts him. Maybe they’re sending someone else after you.”
“Yeah and maybe I’ll get hit by a bus tomorrow. Pete I can’t spend my life hiding from maybes”
“MacGyver – Your file was definitely hacked, and that coupled with the fact that HIT are sniffing about…”
“The rumour you mean”
“…I think it would be best if you laid low for a while. Go stay at a safe house…”
“Pete. No.”
Pete sighed and watched as Mac succeeded in balancing his pencil for a few seconds. Mac gave a triumphant grin and Pete shook his head. “ You are not taking this seriously at all are you?”
Mac gave a half shrug “ I’ll be extra vigilant ok?”
Pete nodded “ Make sure that you do. I’d be a lot happier if…”
“Yes. But I wouldn’t” Mac said getting to his feet. He tossed the pencil to Pete who caught it. “I’ll watch my back Pete. I promise”
Pete watched his friend walk out of the door and hoped he was being over protective and that his nervous feelings were unfounded. The problem was trouble always seemed to find MacGyver. He trusted that MacGyver would be vigilant but even he couldn’t watch his own back while he was asleep. MacGyvers file gave his address among other information. If only he could get MacGyver to stay somewhere else for a while. Somewhere it would be more difficult to find him… Pete smiled. He was beginning to have an idea.
***********************************************************
MacGyver dropped his plates in the sink full of soppy water and decided to let them soak. He was tired but it was early still. He didn’t want to go to bed just yet because he’d end up wide-awake far too early the next morning. He half-heartedly started to sort out his laundry but gave up when he couldn’t find a missing sock.
He turned on the TV and watched an old movie for a while. Stretched out on his sofa, MacGyver relaxed back comfortably and soon felt his eyelids begin to droop. He told himself he was not going to fall asleep on the sofa again and would go to bed in the next ad break…
He started awake suddenly – there had been a noise. A noise loud and out of place enough to startle him awake. Memories of Pete’s warnings flooded back and Mac felt wariness rising as he stretched out and fumbled to turn the TV off. Had he been too cocky? He lay still, listening, breathing slowly and quietly. Listening…to nothing but the normal sounds of the marina at night.
He began to relax again and was about to get up and drag himself up to his bed when there was a sound out on his decking. He couldn’t see outside from his position on the sofa. He slowly raised his head and tried to peer out of the glass doors to the decking. It was darker outside than inside and all MacGyver could see was vague shapes past the reflection of the interior. He felt exposed. If he moved from this position anyone out there could see him and he couldn’t see them.
He lay still and listened for a few more minutes before making a decision – he couldn’t just lie there waiting for someone, who may or may not be on his decking, to make a move. As naturally as he could he stood up and sauntered over to his kitchen area. He forced himself to move normally, desperately trying to get rid of the image supplied by his overactive imagination of someone outside spying on him, and perhaps even targeting him with a gun. He got himself a drink of water and as he wandered back past the light switch he quickly reached out and turned it off plunging the inside of his houseboat in to darkness.
MacGyver blinked to accustom his sight to the dark as quick as he could and stared out to the decking. The lights in the marina revealed nothing. No strangers at the window. He released the breath he’d automatically held and walked over to the doors to his decking. Peering out he was met with the usual sights of his neighbourhood. He relaxed and moved back through the living room to the light switch. He was about to switch the light on when there was a noise by his front door.
Mac felt the tension build again and then too his surprise there was a soft knock on the door. He frowned. Why would someone who was out to do him harm knock on his door? Or why would someone who was just a harmless visitor lurk on his decking and then knock on his door when the light went out? He decided the best way to find out who was at his door was to open it. He gently placed his drink on the table. Bracing himself for the worst, he reached out and unlocked the door slowly and silently. He took a breath and pulled the door open swiftly.
Pete jumped back and gawped at him. “MacGyver! What are you doing? You scared me half to death! Why were you lurking by the door in the dark?”
MacGyver felt a bit sheepish “Uh… I was just about to go to bed.”
“Yes, I saw the light go out. I was going to come back later but I wanted to talk to you and thought I’d risk a quiet knock. If you were still awake you’d hear.”
“Uhmm…You been out there long?”
“Nope. I pulled up as your light went off. Why?”
“Oh, no reason” Mac didn’t want to worry his friend unduly. He wasn’t even sure the noise he thought he’d heard was anything sinister. “What’s up?” Mac asked waving his friend to the sofa and going to close the blinds.
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He didn’t see me! Didn’t see the slightly darker than normal shadow by the wall. Now the blinds are drawn I can step out in to the dim lamplight of the marina. Soon there will be no more lurking in shadows. ***********************************************************
“So why the visit Pete?” MacGyver asked putting the kettle on.
“I need a favour…” At MacGyvers frown he hurriedly added, “…It’s not another assignment.”
“Well that’s good. I’m just home from the last one.”
“Uhm. It does require you to be away from home though…”
“Pete! I am not going to go to a safe house!”
“ Its not a safe house MacGyver. Calm down. It’s just a little…excursion. You’ll enjoy it.”
***********************************************************
The next evening found MacGyver on a helicopter. He was rested and looking forward to the next few days. He was sure Pete had asked him to participate partly to get him out of his home and away from potential HIT assassins but he didn’t mind. He liked to be out in the fresh air. A few days in the woods with young keen Phoenix employees would be refreshing. He initially was wary of Pete’s motives but was assured that this was not an assessment of the employees’ abilities and he would not be asked to report back on any of them. This was purely an exercise to let them experience how the skills they had leant could be adapted to an isolated woodland environment.
Every one of the operatives had some experience of assignments. MacGyver had recognised a few names on the list from recent missions. He primarily worked alone but help with background checks and reconnaissance was greatly appreciated. Although he’d not really met them MacGyver always felt gratitude towards those who supplied him with the vital information. Two names were very familiar as they had been on recent reports he had read – Trevor Sanders and Paul Allan. He was pretty sure he’d read something by two of the other operatives, Emma Maitland and Andrew Charmers. The last name, Jennifer Ross, was not familiar. He was eager to meet them all and to give them any advice he could.
On landing MacGyver gave the helicopter pilot a sloppy farewell salute and made his way towards the building. The group of new operatives were waiting for him and as he approached he received smiles and calls of welcome.
“Hi you must be MacGyver.” One of the young men said stepping forward to shake Macs hand. “I’m Trevor.”
“Yup. That’s me. Good to met you Trevor…and you all are…?”
The others quickly reeled off their names and shook his hand warmly. MacGyver grinned – initial impressions led him to believe the next few days would be pleasurable for all of them. The two girls, Emma and Jennifer, chatted happily together as the group made their way in to the building. Paul led the way striding confidently through the tall grass whistling to himself, and Trevor and Andrew fell in to step with MacGyver and asked him how his journey was.
Soon MacGyver had a mug off tea in his hand and was sitting at the table with the group.
“So MacGyver…do we get to try out MacGyverland?” Trevor asked with a cheeky grin.
Paul rolled his eyes “Trev wants to beat MacGyver in MacGyverland. He’s been on about it since we heard you were coming out here”
MacGyver looked at Trevor and assessed the obvious physical strength of the short stocky man. He was undoubtedly stronger than MacGyver but there was more to MacGyverland than brute strength. Mac smiled “If you like. I was thinking of heading off in to the hills but we can head that way if you’d prefer.”
“I vote for MacGyverland” Trevor said grinning.
“Yeah me too.” Paul said quickly glancing at Trevor. MacGyver grinned as he spotted the spark of competitiveness between the two men.
Andrew shrugged “Its an obstacle course. We’ve done loads of those. I’m game if the others are but I’m not bothered. If MacGyver has other plans that’s fine by me.”
“ I like the idea of a hike in to the hills.” Jennifer said and Emma said she didn’t mind either way.
“We could do both couldn’t we?” Paul said hopefully.
Trevor smirked “You fancy having a go against MacGyver too don’t you?”
“It’s more like I’m keen to see your attempt!” Paul replied with a laugh.
Mac shrugged “Both the obstacle course and a hike is doable. I suggest we get a good nights sleep and then we’ll head to “MacGyverland” tomorrow. We can then spend the rest of the day and the next couple of days hiking in to the woods. Sound ok?”
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He has no idea… He is confident that he is safe. He is confident that no one out here is on a mission against him but he is wrong. Dead wrong! There is me…. And soon there will be another… ***********************************************************
End of Part 1
(Note: For this part I’ve altered MacGyverland for my story but don’t worry I’ll put it back the way I found it when I’m finished)
Shadows
Part 2 (PG)
The next morning the group began their hike in to the woods. They were all fit and healthy so MacGyver was confident that they would reach the obstacle course quickly. As they walked, in amongst the general chat he questioned them on their outdoor survival skills. Paul and Trevor were quick to answer and knew a great deal. The others were not as ready with answers. To find out what they knew he had to direct questions to them personally to prevent all the answers being monopolised by the more competitive pair.
The competitiveness between Trevor and Paul was even more apparent when they reached the obstacle course, with both men studying the ropes and walkways through the trees as soon as they were in sight. MacGyver could see them both noting the route and planning how they would tackle the course in their minds. A little friendly challenge was fine by MacGyver and he was looking forward to the competition too. Soon all 6 of them were gazing upwards studying the course.
From where they stood the majority of the course was visible with various wires, ropes, ladders, cargo nets and platforms scattered from the highest branches right down to the ground. The course required the participant to climb up, over, around and through obstacles as well as climb down some in a controlled manner. MacGyver had seen many a person descend too quickly, in so much of a hurry to complete the course that they ended up injured on the forest floor.
“That looks high.” Emma said. She didn’t sound afraid and was just stating a fact but MacGyver couldn’t help but focus in on her statement. Parts of the course were high. He’d completed this course a lot of times and once he was up there he didn’t have any problems with his fear of heights as long as he stayed focused. Looking at the course from the ground now he wondered how he managed it without his vertigo kicking in. He glanced at the expressions of the others, looking for signs of fear. He wanted to identify any potential problems before they became issues. All of them had passed several obstacle courses in their training but out here, in the wilderness, things sometimes felt different and fears could become multiplied and difficult to overcome.
Thankfully they all appeared unafraid and all looked psyched up for the challenge. Trevor appeared especially tense or excited. Possibly at the idea of beating MacGyver at “MacGyverland” Mac thought wryly noting the muscles on the younger man. It would take hard work to beat him. Paul also appeared strong and was nearly as tall as MacGyver. Mac knew the height advantage he had over the stockier Trevor would not be there against Paul.
Jennifer, despite originally preferring the route in to the hills, was pleased to see that this was not just an ordinary standard obstacle course. “Wow…oh that part looks tricky!” she said pointing to a area with a couple of ropes strung, one 3 feet above the other, between two high platforms. Mac grinned, knowing from experience that the elevation from one platform to the other made it difficult to walk along the lower line while hanging on to the other line. He found it easier and quicker not to walk along the lower rope while using the higher rope for balance, as the lay would lead you to do. He preferred to simply hook his hands and ankles over the top rope and pull himself along that one rope quickly using hand over hand. Mac explained this information to the group and also any other hints he could think of for the course.
They all listened to MacGyvers advice and Emma teased, “Mac you are giving away your advantage!”
MacGyver smiled “I still have an advantage because I’ve done this course before. I can go first so you can see the route but I can’t make it a truly level game I’m afraid.”
“Ahh not to worry…” Trevor said with a grin “We might just give you a run for your money and then you’ll be wishing you kept your tips to yourself!”
The normally quiet Andrew surprised them all by volunteering to try the course directly after MacGyver. Trevor tried to goad him for being so egger but, apart from giving him a distracted glance, Andrew kept his focus on the ropes and platforms in the trees. “MacGyver you’d better watch out! Andrews’s brain is going in to overdrive! He’ll calculate a way to win!” Trevor teased.
Though Trevor was teasing, MacGyver could see the determination in Andrew and, although he wasn’t as muscular as Paul and Trevor, he appeared to be light on his feet and was agile in his movements. Emma also appeared to have a good awareness of balance and had mentioned on their walk that she was quite involved in martial arts. Jennifer was fit and enthusiastic and, although MacGyver couldn’t see any evidence of an advantage she could have over everyone, he knew better than to rule her out of the running. Appearances could be deceptive. This competition was going to be a close one and Mac found himself looking forward to it more and more.
They placed their packs at the foot of a tree and MacGyver suggested that they warm up their muscles – those in their arms and back especially since their legs muscles would have been taken care of in the hike to the course. All but Paul immediately started some warm up exercises. Paul said to Trevor “This is meant to be training for the field. I can just see it now – “sorry mister bad guy but can you wait while I warm up before the chase?!””
MacGyver overheard and laughed “Well after some of the missions I’ve been on I’ve wished I could have done that! Sure if our lives depended on us quickly completing this…but there is just no point in ending up with muscle strain when we can avoid it.”
Overhearing MacGyvers response the others asked what had been said and Trevor told them. “If you pull a muscle you’ll get no sympathy from us Paul! And don’t think we’ll carry your pack either!” Jennifer said laughing. Paul grunted incoherently and, conceding the point, started to warm up too.
MacGyver then checked the course was still safe and secure after being left unattended in the month since the last Phoenix visit. He went to the starting point and was soon off – whizzing through the trees on the end of a rope one moment and then scrambling up a cargo net the next. He was dimly aware of cheers of encouragement from his “rivals” below. MacGyver climbed, wriggled, jumped, scrambled, swung and crawled his way through the course, arriving at the end out of breath but grinning from ear to ear. He’d enjoyed that, and while it wasn’t his best time, he’d done quite well. He received friendly pats on the back and congratulations from them all.
One by one the others took their turns on the course. Andrew did well but a couple of the tricky obstacles really slowed him down. Emma went next and was a bit quicker than Andrew but still not near Macs time. Jennifer completed the course competently without making any slips and, although her time was the slowest so far, she was pleased with her efforts. The group all cheered each other on but as the competitive pairs turns neared they began to focus on their attempts.
Trevor went next and was so keen to make a good time at one point his feet were moving faster than his hands causing him to stumble and lose precious seconds. In the end he beat Emma but only by a few seconds leaving him still behind MacGyvers time. He was slightly disappointed in his time but knew where he’d gone wrong and accepted it. Paul gave a near perfect attempt with no mistakes or stumbles but MacGyvers time remained unbeaten.
Paul was notably disappointed and, while the others were working on getting some lunch organised, he studied the course again trying to work out what he could do to improve. Emma asked him to go and fetch some water but he was seen heading in to the branches to try various ways to cross a particularly tricky section.
After a while Trevor called him out of the trees “Come on Paul! – Stop obsessing and come and help with lunch”. His calls were greeted with silence. He turned to the others “Maybe he’s sulking?”
Andrew sighed and picking up the bottles said, “I’ll go get the water. I hope we’ve finished eating and there is no lunch left by the time he comes down!”
Mac watched Andrew stomp off into the trees towards the stream. Paul’s unhelpfulness was beginning to annoy the group. Not wanting annoyance to escalate to anger, he stood and peered in to the branches. “Paul?” He called. There was no reply. Mac moved closer to the course and realised there was no one in the trees. “Paul?” he called again looking around for signs of him.
Jennifer came to MacGyvers side “Maybe he went for water after all. Andrew will probably bump in to him at the stream”.
“Without the bottles?” MacGyver said frowning. He was beginning to get a bad feeling about this.
***********************************************************
Paul had been sitting at the start of the course gazing up at the ropes when something had caught his eye. Something had flashed to his right. He looked over to the bushes. Getting to his feet he moved towards where the flash had come from. He was soon faced with a camera on a tripod, unattended in the middle of a small clearing. Paul frowned and moved closer. Suddenly a strong hand was clamped around his mouth and what felt suspiciously like the barrel of a gun was pushed against his back.
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All the players are here and are unwittingly following my script perfectly. The trap now has bait. My time will soon be here.***********************************************************
End of Part 2
*LabRat Sneaks a quick go on a rope swing (Yeeehaaaa!) and then scurries about ensuring MacGyverland is returned back to the way it was*
Shadows
Part 3 (PG)
***********************************************************
MacGyver glanced at his watch. Andrew had been gone too long and there was still no sign of Paul. Trevor noticed his concern and asked “Would you like me to go hurry them along? We need that water for cooking”
Just as MacGyver was contemplating sending out a search party he spotted movement in the trees. “Oh this looks like them now…well one of them anyway.” He amended as Andrew came in to view with full bottles of water.
“Hey, what kept you? Did you see Paul?” Emma asked helping him place the bottles on the ground.
Andrew scowled “Didn’t see Paul. Is he still playing in the trees?”
“No. We haven’t seen him since before you left.” MacGyver said becoming more worried.
Andrew gave an unconcerned shrug “Probably got himself lost” and began to feed sticks in to the fire.
MacGyver frowned at Andrews lack of concern but thought maybe he was overreacting. Paul was a good woodsman and wouldn’t have got himself lost. Maybe he simply went for a walk and hadn’t noticed the time passing.
After another 10 minutes without any sign of Paul MacGyver decided he had to act. “I’m just going to have a look for Paul.” He told the others.
Emma glanced at her watch “He’s been gone a bit long hasn’t he? Would you like help to look for him?”
“I’ll give you a hand MacGyver” Andrew offered.
“Ok. Thanks. We’ll be back within 30 minutes guys.” MacGyver told the remaining group and he and Andrew set off in the direction they had last see Paul heading.
As they passed the start of the course Andrew paused and said “That’s odd.”
“What?” MacGyver said lowering his gaze from where he was scanning the rope course. “Oh.”
There was something tacked to the tree that supported the starting platform.
MacGyver moved closer and felt the hairs at the back of his neck stand on end. It was a photograph. A very clear calling card from Murdoc! The photo was a picture of Paul sitting under this very tree. The photo had been taken from the side of this spot. MacGyver immediately turned and scanned the area.
“What’s up?” Andrew asked confused by MacGyvers jumpy reaction.
“Careful. We might not be alone. Paul’s in trouble” MacGyver said quietly moving towards the bushes to the side. He crouched down and examined the ground finding 3 distinct indentations. A tripod had sat here. He searched the nearby bushes but knew Murdoc was probably no longer in the area. Why hang around when he had bait and could draw MacGyver into a trap wherever he wanted?
MacGyver came back to Andrew who was looking at the photo. “There’s another photo behind this.” He said pulling the pin out and removing the two photos from the tree.
Andrew glanced at the photo “looks like some lake” he said with a shrug and passed it to MacGyver.
MacGyver recognised the lake. It was the same one that himself and Pete had been to when they were trying to stop the smugglers.
“Come on” MacGyver said jogging back to where the others were preparing lunch. The group looked up surprised to see the concerned looking pair return so soon and without Paul. “Listen guys. Change of plan. I need you all to go back to the lodge and radio the foundation. Contact Pete and tell him that Murdoc has Paul and has left a clue to follow him to the lake. Tell him it’s the lake he knows.”
“Murdoc? Isn’t he an assassin from HIT? You aren’t going after them are you? Its obviously a trap!” Jennifer said concerned.
“Yes. I know it’s a trap but I can’t not go after them. Pete warned me there was a rumour that HIT were targeting me. Paul has got caught up in this through no fault of his own.”
“At least let one of us come with you as back up. I’m willing.” Andrew said.
“Nope. I’m doing this alone,” MacGyver said pulling on his rucksack.
“But that’s insane! We may be inexperienced in your eyes but we aren’t useless! I’m fully trained and could help you!” Andrew insisted picking up his own pack and slinging it on his back.
MacGyver turned to him “The decision is made. The best help you can be is to make sure Pete knows what’s going on. I’ll want transport out of there after I have Paul.”
Andrew scowled. “After you have Paul? How are you going to find them without Murdoc finding you first?”
MacGyver shrugged “Well it’s easier for one person to be silent than two. Get to the lodge and call Pete.” He turned to go but Andrew reached out to stop him. “I’m not wasting time arguing with you.” He said shrugging off his hand and began to walk away.
Trevor stopped Andrew from following and said. “Come on Andrew. Let him go. He knows what he’s doing.”
As he swiftly made his way in the woods he heard Andrew snarl “Oh yeah! The famous MacGyver. I bet he thinks can stop the world revolving if he wants! He’s crazy to refuse help!” The sounds of the ensuing argument followed him in to the trees until soon all he heard were birds.
As MacGyver hurried silently through the woods he quickly dismissed Andrews anger as concern for his colleague. In stressful situations people often said things they didn’t normally mean. The young man was probably just frustrated that he couldn’t help track down Paul.
As he walked MacGyver tried to figure out why Murdoc would need to hack in to his personnel file. He had been so sure Murdoc wasn’t after him... and if there had been someone lurking at his house the other night – That certainly wasn’t Murdocs style. He wouldn’t lurk and not act…but then again maybe Petes arrival had scared him off? The photos definitely pointed to Murdoc as Pauls abductor. He just hoped Murdoc hadn’t harmed Paul.
***********************************************************
The plan is all going perfectly. How easy it is to predict the actions of these people. It’s so hard not to laugh out loud - I’m having more fun than I’ve had in years!***********************************************************
Trevor was worried. They had tried to reason with Andrew but there was no stopping him. Despite their best efforts they couldn’t prevent him from following MacGyver. Short of overpowering and restraining him there was nothing that could be done to stop him. It did make him feel a bit better knowing MacGyver had someone else on his side out there but he just hoped they’d done the right thing.
***********************************************************
Nearing the lake MacGyver slowed and moved even more carefully through the woods. He’d made good time and was sure Murdoc, forcing an uncooperative captive along, would have only managed to arrive minutes before he had. He saw movement past some bushes on his left. He hid his pack under some leaves and slowly crawled to the bushes. Peering over the top he saw Murdoc with his back too him facing Paul who was sitting under a tree with his hands restrained behind his back and his ankles bound with cord.
Paul spotted him peering over the bushes and MacGyver saw his expression register his surprise and delight at being tracked down before he quickly tried to hide it. It was too late and Murdoc turned with a gun in his hand to face MacGyver.
“Ah! MacGyver! So good of you to join us. Your young protégé is not as pleasant company as your good self.” He ignored the angry glare from Paul and continued in a cheerful tone of voice ”On your feet – there’s no need to kneel in my presence, though I do appreciate the gesture.”
MacGyver groaned under his breath and got to his feet and slowly walked in to the clearing.
“Ah-ha! Hands visible!” Murdoc glanced at Paul “Our MacGyver has a nasty habit of getting himself out of bother with little tricks. But I’m sure you know all about that. Ok. Now hands behind you back MacGyver” Murdoc quickly secured MacGyvers wrists behind his back with handcuffs and quickly searched him grinning wryly as he found the familiar penknife.
Once satisfied MacGyver was unarmed, Murdoc forced him to sit on the ground next to Paul and tied his ankles.
“Now MacGyver, before we get down to business there’s a little something you ought to know. I was invited to join you out here in the wilderness.” At MacGyvers frown he laughed. “Invited by one of your little group of friends no less!”
As MacGyver tried to figure out if Murdoc could be telling the truth Paul piped up. “You’re insane! We are all with the Phoenix foundation. We work with MacGyver!”
“Yes! Delightful isn’t it? One of MacGyvers trusted colleagues has invited me out here and offered their mentor to me on a plate.”
“Who?” Paul said sounding shocked.
“He gave me no name. I can see MacGyvers brain has kicked in and he has a suspicion.” MacGyver glared at Murdoc. He was right, he did have a suspicion. Andrews angry outburst at being left behind rung in his memory. Was he actually voicing what he really felt? Was the reason for his anger the fact he wouldn’t be able to witness MacGyvers downfall first hand? Murdoc interrupted his train of thought and asked, “Care to share your ideas?”
MacGyver ignored the question and said, “ You have me. Let Paul go.”
“Oh don’t worry I intend to. I’d like to leave a witness to your downfall so that word can get back to the person who made this little adventure possible. After all the help he’s given me he deserves to know how things work out. Now you two just sit still. I’ll be with you in a moment…and in case you are thinking of trying anything funny – the safety is off” Murdoc warned waving the gun at them.
As Murdoc moved to his bag Paul hissed to MacGyver “This guys is mad! Do you think he was telling the truth about one of the group helping him?”
“I’m not sure. Andrew was missing for a long time when he was away getting water.” MacGyver replied trying to pick a piece of wood free from the tree bark behind him that he could use as a lock pick.
Outrage flashed across Paul’s expression and he growled angrily “You think Andrew is a part of all this!”
“Easy! I don’t know anything for sure. Just try to stay calm. We’ll get out of this. See if you can get a sliver of wood that can pick your cuffs.” MacGyver whispered, trying to keep the younger man focused on the immediate problem.
“I’ve been doing that already. Think I’m nearly free…. got it!” Paul whispered triumphantly quickly untying his ankles.
MacGyver looked startled as Paul began eying up the distance to Murdoc. “Don’t try anything risky…help me get free.” He whispered urgently, not liking the idea of Paul placing himself in danger while he was unable to help.
“No time. I can take him!” Paul whispered back and silently picked up a nearby hefty branch. MacGyver was almost scared to look as Paul crept slowly and silently up on Murdoc who was still rummaging through his pack. MacGyver knew Murdoc could turn at any second and would have no qualms about shooting Paul.
Paul made his way to directly behind Murdoc and raised the branch. He was just bringing it down when Murdoc turned. Murdoc swiftly dodged causing the branch to simply skim off his shoulder instead of striking his head. He raised the gun but Paul recovered in time to make a snatch for it. Although the pair seemed evenly matched Murdoc was looking pleased and was grinning as he struggled with Paul. As they wrestled MacGyver frantically worked on the lock for his cuffs. He had to get free. Murdoc was up to something sneaky and Paul was going to need his help.
***********************************************************
End of Part 3
Shadows
Part 4 (PG)
MacGyvers hope sank when Murdoc laughed with delight. It sounded like Murdoc had the gun again but to MacGyvers surprise they were still wrestling for it. What was Murdoc planning? MacGyver continued to try his best to pick the lock on his handcuffs with pieces of bark, desperately trying to get free so he could come to Pauls aid.
Murdoc called out ”I think you should tell MacGyver your big plan Paul. I bet he wants to know why you have concocted this elaborate charade.”
Paul kicked Murdoc in the stomach and pulled the gun from his hands. He glared at Murdoc who was sprawled on the ground. “You’ve spoilt it!” He spat.
Murdoc got to his feet and clapped delightedly as MacGyvers raised hope at seeing Paul win the gun turned to horror. “Well done! You fooled MacGyver. Look how shocked he is – he didn’t suspect you at all!”
Paul gave a smug smile “I know. If you hadn’t turned you’d be dead now. I’d have saved the wonderful MacGyver and killed the man he’d repeatedly failed to kill.”
Paul directed a glare at MacGyver “You have no idea do you? I spent nearly 48 hours solid chasing a lead for you. It was my information that allowed you to swoop in at the last minute to save the damsel in distress from that burning building. Everyone was so proud of you that night it was sickening! No longer would I have to hear about ’How MacGyver saved the day yet again’ and people would see that I am better than you’ve ever been. No longer will I be grouped together with people like Andrew – I’m disgusted to hear you thought he could achieve something like this by the way MacGyver.”
MacGyver continued to try to free himself as Paul ranted on. “The planning and work I have put in to this…No way would that idiot Andrew be able to pull this off. I manipulated the great Pete Thornton. All that was needed was a hack of you file, a rumour that your life was in danger and a hint that a trip to MacGyverland would be appropriate. Then simply goading Trevor in to wanting to beat you at MacGyverland…It all worked perfectly.”
“Ah it’s glory you’re after then. You’re jealous of MacGyver!” Murdoc said with a grin. Paul turned his anger on the smirking Murdoc.
“And you…the assassin who strikes fear in to the hearts of many! How easy you were to manipulate in to joining my plan. I gave you the location of MacGyverland and conveniently separated myself from the group so you could capture me. You didn’t notice the small sliver of metal hidden in a fake scar on the back of my hand. I simply waited and “accidentally” alerted you to MacGyvers presence and then all I had to do was pick the lock and save MacGyver by killing you. Now that you have given the game away I will have to kill MacGyver too. I will make sure you don’t get the credit for that. I’ll dream up a story so his death will be reported as tragic accident. You will die as the failure you have become since your first bungled attempt on MacGyvers life.”
Murdoc continued to grin knowingly, irritating Paul in to snapping “As for that ridiculous notion that you know what my motives are…Me? Jealous of MacGyver? No. Not jealous. Just frustrated at always being taken advantage of and never being given the recognition I deserve. All my life every time I have done something special there has always been someone else who has done it that little bit faster or a little bit better. This is a way to get out of the shadow of others and make a name for myself. You are simply a tool to help me get to where I belong.”
Murdocs smirk turned in to a full broad smile and he said “My, my. Youngsters these days have no respect for their elders and betters. Oh I did notice the fake scar when I hand cuffed you. I knew you could have a lock pick hidden there. A strange thing for a man camping in the woods to have concealed so cleverly. It intrigued me, as you were obviously my “partner” in this escapade. You didn’t identify yourself to me and I was trying to figure out what you were planning with all the pretending. You are devious but I have been devious for a lot longer than you. Don’t you think after years in my line of work I’d have something up my sleeve in case of double crossing partners?”
Paul warily levelled the gun at Murdoc and stepped back to ensure he was out of arms reach. MacGyver watched the men as he frantically struggled to unlock his cuffs. The pieces of bark kept breaking and he was scared that one would break and get stuck in the lock. That would effectively block any further attempts. He saw both Murdoc and Paul were poised ready to act. One of them was sure to make a move against the other soon and he could make a run for it as they fought…but he had to get free first!
Murdoc sighed dramatically, “Oh dear! You have such a deliciously devious and twisted mind. It’s going to be almost a shame to kill you.”
Paul laughed, “I’m the one with the loaded gun levelled at you. What makes you so confident?”
Murdoc shrugged and smoothly turned the casual shrug in to a lunge at Pauls legs. Caught be surprise Paul fired the gun but didn’t have time to adjust the aim and the bullet passed harmlessly over Murdocs head. Murdoc crashed heavily in to Pauls legs bringing him to the ground and causing the gun to go flying in to the bushes. Both men frantically scrambled towards the weapon while tugging and fighting trying to ensure the other didn’t reach it first.
Now would be the prefect time to escape…If only the cuffs would unlock! MacGyver was considering trying to hop out of there with his hands bound and his feet still tied when suddenly his efforts were rewarded and the cuffs opened. He quickly untied his legs and snuck away in to the trees.
Circling around MacGyver followed the signs and sounds of the struggle easily. He spotted them struggling together on a small hill that looked vaguely familiar to MacGyver. MacGyver looked around trying to think of a way he could capture both men. He looked back to the hill and remembered why it was familiar. When Pete and himself were trapped in a cave by the smugglers they managed to climb their way out. This was the hill with the hole they escaped out of.
MacGyver crept closer and before he could contemplate a plan Murdoc discovered the hole. Unfortunately for him he’d stepped back and was now teetering on the edge with only a fistful of Pauls shirt keeping him from falling. Paul was desperately trying to force him to let go and not pull him over the edge too. MacGyver moved forward to take advantage of the men’s distraction, hoping to disable them both.
Murdoc saw MacGyver approach and grinned. His grin faltered as Paul yanked on his fingers, forcing them free and causing him to fall backwards. “MacGyver!” Murdoc yelled as he fell in to the cave below. MacGyver wasn’t sure if Murdocs cry was for help or his usual cry of anger at failing again.
Paul angrily spun around and faced MacGyver. “I killed him and he yells at you! I am responsible!” He lunged madly at MacGyver. MacGyver was surprised by the sudden wild rage and was knocked off his feet. He saw Paul raise his fist to punch him hard in the face and brought his arm up to protect himself.
The punch never fell. Instead MacGyver felt Pauls weight move off of him and he peered around his arm to see Andrew struggle to pin Paul to the ground. Paul wriggled free and Andrew scrambled after him. MacGyver hauled himself to his feet and caught up with them. Together, he and Andrew managed to restrain the screaming and struggling man.
Paul still tried to fight as they securely bound and gagged him. MacGyver filled Andrew in on what had happened and said, “You have good timing. I’m glad you ignored my request. I appreciate your help. Thank you”
“Hey no problem. About before…I’m sure you heard what I said…I just get angry sometimes and say things I don’t mean. That’s why I took so long getting water. I was angry with Paul and needed some time to cool down a bit. I’m sorry for what I said. I didn’t mean it.”
MacGyver nodded “Sure. No problem”
Andrew frowned. MacGyver had avoided eye contact when he said that. “It’s the truth. I was just sounding off because I was feeling guilty about being angry at Paul when I thought he was actually in trouble. I wanted to make up for it by helping Paul.”
“I believe you…its just Paul said some things…”
Andrew saw MacGyver glance at Paul. “He fooled us all MacGyver. Don’t feel bad about it.” He said sadly. “He went through training with me and apart from some pretty competitive moments he showed no signs of this extreme behaviour.”
“I’ve never seen anyone so wildly angry before. He said I took the credit for a recent mission that he took part in. I never claim that I carry out successful missions totally unaided and everyone at Phoenix knows how valuable good reconnaissance is. I remember seeing his name on some really good work.”
Andrew shrugged “Thinking about it more I remember after he’d set a really superb time in one of our training sessions - he was expecting more than the quick congratulations that he got from the trainer. I remember seeing how jealous he looked when the trainer started to tell us all about MacGyverland instead of telling everyone how good Paul had performed.”
MacGyver sighed and walked over to the hole where Murdoc had fallen saying “There are tests Phoenix carry out to try to identify any signs of instability in potential candidates but they are not fool proof. They rely a lot on background checks so if he’s never shown signs of this kind of behaviour before…” He trailed off when he peered down the hole. He groaned and looked around.
“What? What’s wrong?” Andrew asked joining him at the hole.
“No sign of Murdoc. He could have landed on that ledge and scrambled out while we were busy with Paul I suppose.”
“That tiny little ledge? Its quite far down…the odds of him landing there has to be slim…not to mention him climbing out that quickly while possibly injured. He had to have fallen right down…if he fell that far he must be dead. Maybe the body is in the shadows at the bottom?” Andrew suggested.
“I wouldn’t bet on it!” MacGyver said irritated. It was beginning to look like Murdoc had escaped yet again. At Andrews quizzical look he sighed, “It’s a long story.”
“Well why don’t you fill me in while we wait for the cavalry to arrive?” As he finished speaking the sound of a plane could be heard in the distance. Andrew grinned “Oh well maybe another time. Looks like we’ll be home safe and sound before nightfall”
MacGyver groaned as the seaplane came in sight. “Oh I wouldn’t count on it. That’s all I need!”
“What’s wrong? More trouble?” Asked Andrew concerned.
“You could say that.” MacGyver replied with a wry grin. He’d recognised the rescue plane.
“Another long story?” Andrew guessed, relaxing slightly at Macs grin.
“Oh yes. A very long one.” Mac said moving to Paul and, with Andrews assistance, hefting him over his shoulder. “Lets get to the shoreline.”
As they reached the shoreline the plane landed, skimming across the water towards them. MacGyver smiled as the figure inside the plane waved enthusiastically to them. “Andrew, you’d better prepare yourself…for your first flight with Dalton Air!”
The End.
