Roland Clarke's Blog, page 28
April 17, 2019
O for Obstructions – Azure Spark. Part 15
[Music treat at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
OBSTRUCTIONS – Saturday Late
Afternoon
[image error]https://www.walesonline.co.uk/
Odious odours and smoke obscure the scene at the junction of Snowdon and Madog. I thread my way through the onlookers and under the police tape. The fire was fierce, destroying most of the corner building’s façade. A charred signboard hangs dangerously loose.
A group of North Wales firefighters are dousing down. One acts officious.
“Late as always, Meinwen. I solved this hours ago.”
Unlikely. Owen Anwyl might be a fire investigator, but his solutions
depend on others.
I’ve known him all my life, but I’m the eldest sibling by a
year.
“Some of us have other cases to occupy our hours.”
His smirk prepares me for more taunts.
But a man in blue slacks, red shirt and white flannel jacket
pushes his way through the barrier towards us. 5 foot 11, athletic, tanned,
dyed black hair.
“Hugh Arbuthnot. I own this shop.” His voice
pronounces every word like another royal invader. His icy stare flicks between
us, then he selects my brother in his dusty uniform – casts me away.
“Officer, I need to know what happened here.”
His equally posh lawyer will be next – or his accountant to
count the losses.
“A car mounted the pavement and skidded into your shop
front. Then the ruptured fuel tank exploded. Petrol – that’s the acrid odour. A
simple accident.”
Owen leads the owner around the burnt out 4×4 – torched by
the ram-raiders. No accident. Nor the petty thief we at CID are tracking.
I assess the interior. Any robbery evidence is obliterated
by arson. Convenient – for the perpetrators.
Tattoos tingling, I tap my bracer. A for Arson. R for
Robbery. O for Organised. Deliberate. ROAD. But not road rage.
“Why the police tape? Do you suspect a crime?”
“No, just routine to keep onlookers back.” More
Owen bull-shit.
“I disagree, this is a crime scene.”
“Who are you?”
I’m not dressed as a cop. So, I reach inside my biking
leathers for my warrant card.
“An opinionated observer who’s operating without her
lezzie partner – for once.”
I scowl at Owen, but the posh Englishman flinches – one
gesture short of crossing himself.
“I’m Detective Sparkle Anwyl, CID. This officer
requested our involvement in this suspected arson, which I believe was a ram
raid robbery.”
Glancing at my ID, Hugh Arbuthnot frowns, hands behind his
back. “I demand another detective – a second opinion. Not from someone
like you.”
“So, not Welsh,” I say, twisting his insult.
“Not easy in North Wales. But my partner is Tamil – her family immigrated
from South India. And she’s a more senior detective. Plus, our boss, Detective
Inspector Ffion Baines approves of our teamwork. Now, do you want to obstruct
us or resolve this case?”
I’m out of order but annoyed. Ffion would agree. Owen is stirring.
He requested me on purpose. Petty sibling rivalry.
A for Arson and Arbuthnot. R for Ram-raid and Robbery. O for
Owner and Obstructions. D for Disagree and Disgrace.
ROAD. Ignoring the rage, where to? Trace the 4 x 4.
“Officer Anwyl, finish off your fire investigation,
then please allow our forensic team to gather what they need – like that
vehicle.”
At the outside corner of the shop, I wait for Hugh
Arbuthnot. He will talk to me. He has no choice.
I gather more evidence. The angle of the crash is deliberate.
The torched vehicle designed to obliterate evidence but not destroy the
building. Measured. Observed in advance.
Hugh interrupts.
“My official objection will be lodged. I can give my
opinion but no more than that.”
“That’s your right, sir. For now, I need to know how
long you’ve owned this shop, what would the robbers take, and have there been
any other occurrences?”
He paces, throwing glances at the building and the burnt-out
car.
“My wife bought The Jewel Box two years ago.” He
grits his teeth and taps his left foot. “She died in the spring. I’ve
attempted to run this gift shop, but I have my own work. I’m a movie producer
with a demanding professional schedule.”
He hands me a fancy card – Hugh B Arbuthnot, Oriole
Productions, Executive Producer.
“Who runs the shop when you’re working?”
“My daughter, Olivia and her husband.” He snorts,
head held high. “Poulsen.” He slaps his left palm to his forehead.
“He mixes in shady circles. Some of his cronies did this.”
Opportunistic thieves? Or convenient coincidence? Whose
production?
[image error]
For those that wondered, yes this is my #WEP/IWSG post for April
so part of the 2019
WEP/IWSG Challenge. This incident will be explored further over
the course of the next four #WEP/IWSG posts. In the meantime, please enjoy
Azure Spark, another case for Sparkle Anwyl and her colleagues.
Word Count 731: MPA
Comments are welcome as usual, but for the WEP/IWSG
Challenge, the following applies:
[image error]
(FCA welcome – if you want to send one, just
let me know in the comments.)
[image error]
For further details on this A to Z theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
April 16, 2019
N for Narcosis – Azure Spark. Part 14
[Music treat at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
NARCOSIS – Saturday Afternoon
Nurturing natural nooks enhances our wild Welsh landscape.
The sea looks unspoilt, but we fear what lurks unseen. Humanity the criminal.
Crime never sleeps.
Not this weekend. At 4 p.m. there are reports to tackle and
the NWP nicks are filling up.
Ensure we are ready for tomorrow. Check everything, While
Kama confirms that Wiley is ready to submit the fraud case to CPS.
“It won’t be a late night,” she says, her tone
reassuring. “We’ve an early start.”
“Nemesis draws nearer for our criminals – if they
show.”
“They will, cariad.
They need divers – and we’re qualified.”
What am I overlooking? Unknown nightmare scenarios.
Stifle fear and suppress the nausea. Ignore glances from possibly dangerous colleagues. Kama has zero probable names. Hoax or hazard? Nerves jangling.
My phone rings. Our new desk sergeant – the one who replaced
my tad.
“Uniform have a prisoner you need to interview. Ellis
Evans. Arrested in Nannau near Dolgellau for dealing drugs.”
A new development. Relax. Prioritise.
In the interview room, seated beside a uniform colleague, I
switch on the tape recorder, giving the time and my name.
“Suspect is Ellis Evans. No lawyer has been
requested.”
I place eight bags of cannabis on the table. “These yours? For sale?”
He squints. “I never sell narcotics. These are a
friend’s for keeping safe.” He shrugs and crosses his arms over his chest.
“And your friend’s name?”
“Vic Vaughn. He’s in hospital, so I keep for him.”
String him along.
“Bangor? When did you see him last?”
“A few days ago. I can’t remember.”
“Amnesia. Narcosis. Ever been treated for those?”
“No. I’ve never been in hospital. I not register with
NHS.”
I lean forward. Open his file. Produce a photo of him
injured and in a coma. Slide it over.
“Never? Not at Bangor Hospital?”
His face goes ashen and drops. Sick at the sight of his
injuries. And more.
“I only remember leaving the building. I had to get
outside and breathe. To escape everything.”
“The drugs?”
“We never knew what is happening. They never told us
nothing.”
“Never told you and Stefan Mikaelsson – your friend.
His drugs? You ready to tell him that, Ivan Tjäder?”
He shakes his head and cries.
“I sell drugs to escape, to go home back to Sweden. I
won’t dive for them. Where is Stefan?”
“Safe. Tell me everything, and you will be safe here
to.”
His confession tallies with his friend’s. One less loose
end, but the kingpins remain unidentified.
As I walk back upstairs, Ffion waves me into her office. She
pushes a file across her desk.
“I fear the incidents have escalated a level. This time it’s
not a petty crime but arson. Can you investigate this evening? The fire officer
has asked for you specifically.”
Do we have a name?”
Her look fills me with dread. I start tapping my bracer
furiously.
D for Drugs and Dread. U for Untimely and Urgent. S for
Sailing, Smoke and Sweat.
“Owen Anwyl.”
O for Opportunist and Owen. I for Insensitive and Investigation.
ODIOUS.
My odious brother. That’s a mutual objection.
[image error]Baggies of Weed – https://breakingthecode.ca/navigating-our-medical-marijuana-dilemma/baggies-of-weed/
For
further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
April 15, 2019
M for Mayhem – Azure Spark. Part 13
[Music treat at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
MAYHEM – Saturday Morning
Melodious murmurs mingle with the churning surf and rival
bird calls. Makes these memories matter. Kama and me – melded.
“The dive ship will take us out to the final wreck.
This will be your last dive and will test your capability at depths of nearly
30 metres. But be prepared for the unexpected – this is not a tourist excursion.
And I won’t be easy on you.”
The training officer, Inspector Varley, hasn’t let up all
morning – not since our 4 a.m start. Intensive workouts, testing dives, and
mental mazes to tax us – and prepare us. No normal course.
“Move. We’re not on a shopping trip. Anwyl, you push us
off with that boat hook. And put some muscles into it – if you have any.”
Ignore the windup. My wetsuit moulds to me for warmth and
protection but it sculpts and reveals. Kama’s toned body is as marked.
I push us off. The coxswain steers the ship out beyond a
rocky promontory. But Kama and I must row us further in an inflatable towards a
jagged outcrop – even though it has an outboard.
Our scuba gear rechecked from tank to goggles, we descend
into the majestic depths.
The corroded metal merchantman looks vibrant with fish and seaweeds.
The ripped hull and damaged superstructure indicate the mayhem of the storm
that wrecked her on the rocks above.
Varley indicates we are to enter through the main breach in
the hull. Kama on point, me behind – ahead of our mentor-taskmaster.
Tattoos tingle. Nerves jangle. I dive down and left as a
black- clad figure with a tinted mask fires a spear gun at Kama.
I surprise the second attacker by dolphin-kicking into him.
Improvised Jiu-Jitsu stuns him.
Kama anticipates the spear, weaving into attack mode. She disarms
her attacker gesturing with the grabbed spear-gun for him to swim up to our
deep compression rendezvous.
I follow with my captive at the point of his gun.
Varley gestures at his watch and shakes his head.
Resolved too fast. That’s just us.
Back on the dive ship, he struggles to suppress his chuckle.
“Fastest resolution to my ambush ever. You ladies are
good enough to be in my Marine unit – not in CID.”
“Is that a job offer?” Kama raises her eyes as she
looks towards me. “We come as a team.”
One of the unmasked officers laughs and thumps her on the
back. “With your manoeuvres, I’d be out of a job. I’ve never seen some of
them. What are they?”
“A melange of my Tamil martial art of silambam and
Sparkle’s jiu-jitsu.”
“As my partner said, we’re a team so train as
one.”
Inspector Varley gestures for the coxswain to return to
shore.
“You two moved as one unit through that rupture.
Instinctively prepared. You’ve passed – and yes, if you ever want to become
maritime police and face marauders at sea, I’d welcome you. But I suspect CID
won’t let you go. So, good luck on tomorrow’s nautical challenge and get those
crooks.”
My stomach churns. We’ve colleagues that want us gone. Ones
that despise minorities like us. And moving to another force won’t resolve that.
Tap my bracer.
M for Mayhem and Minorities. A for Ambush. S for Silambam. N
for Nautical. E for Exertion.
NAMES.
“That your secret weapon, Anwyl?”
“Mnemonics are my mental ally. Keep me ahead.”
If we can identify the real attackers and what they are smuggling
from Sweden. Narcotics?
[image error]
A rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RIB) used by the
North West Police Underwater Search & Marine Unit. Note that it is marked as both POLICE and HEDDLU, as it operates in both England and Wales. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Mark_Hemans
For
further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.” William Congreve – The Mourning Bride
April 13, 2019
L for Lethality – Azure Spark. Part 12
[Background music at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
LETHALITY – Friday afternoon
Legal loopholes challenge us. CPS must prepare for canny
lawyers. I need to ensure we have everything.
Eyes closed, my mind plays games with scenarios. Be
prepared.
Ivan Tjäder, our runner might be more than the loophole. Did
he see me? Was this coma a pretence? The doctor would’ve known. But Stefan
fooled him.
My shudder is premature – if Ivan is found by us first. I
check the latest sightings – nothing.
But Ffion has sent me the petty theft incidents. Nothing
expensive. Nor anything the pawnshops will bother with. Very likely gift shop
purchases. Sentimental trinkets the professional jewel thief would ignore. An
opportunist petty thief? A spate that merits monitoring. So, I give Ffion my
assessment.
I’m assessing my next lateral step, when a message flashes
up.
“Detective Dike
Anwyl. We are watching you and your lesbian bitch. No perversion in NWP. Resign
or regret staying.”
I shiver. My heart beat races. Dizziness. Pain.
The first stone, and we’ve only been doing our jobs. Is this
hatred or jealousy?
Rigidity dissolves. The bitter tang in my mouth. Spit. My
lip bleeds.
I can’t tell Kama.
No. I must tell Kama.
Ffion?
Not yet.
Are we safe at the regatta?
No cop would dare expose us – would they? To be rid of us?
If we fail that proves our lack of worth.
Focus on the case. Ignore the haters. I’m queer and proud.
Lost cargo – jettisoned overboard. My hunch. I open the message from HMRC in Pembroke. The manifest from the Scandinavian freighter shows items missing – washed off by waves during a lightning storm. ‘Medical supplies.’ Drugs?
But no loss report or insurance claim shows in any records I
can access. Buried or dismissed?
Diving might reveal more. And probing.
I ring forensics.
“Liam, our guest confirmed they were attacked with
gaffs and staves.”
“Do we have a crime scene?”
“Nothing definite. A jetty, perhaps a marina near
Llandudno. We haven’t the resources to search for a scene. Not yet.”
“Austerity biting at your budget too. Crazy with crime
not sleeping.”
“That’s what my late tad would say.”
Tears come freely at his memory. Cancer was the crime that
took him. The toughest adversary.
“Wise man.”
“He was – the best.” I close my eyes. Breathe.
“I’ll ring when I have more. Oh, they had been sailing.”
Waves of tingling as I replace the phone.
A for Austerity and Adversary. M for Medical and Manifest. L for Lightning, Lesbian and Legal. U for Unknown.
MAUL. Who is wanting to maul us? Lethality unleashed. No
matter. The trap should be set. I check the online news.
“Champion divers choose Aberdaron Regatta.”
[image error]
SVEDOLIVER/ISTOCKPHOTO – https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2017/09/cargo-ships-may-be-creating-lightning-sea
For
further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
April 12, 2019
K for Knuckle-duster – Azure Spark. Part 11
[Background music at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
KNUCKLE-DUSTER – Friday Midday
Kama’s knowledge of kickboxing keeps me alert to her moves
in the gym. One hesitation and I’m flattened Nan bread. She gives no quarter.
Nor do I.
Sweat washes off as
she soaps my hair.
“How soon is the deep-water course – and the
regatta?”
“Tomorrow is the training on Ynys Môn. Anglesey has
great dive sites. Sunday, we try out our Aberdaron boat. Monday, we race. So,
no pressure.”
“Just that spot where your palm is playing on my right
cheek. But enjoyable.”
I kiss her. “Just returning your attentive touch. We
better sneak out separately. Remember the warning.”
There are strange looks when I return to the office, even though Kama is back conferring with Wiley. He’s proved one of our understanding friends – even if he’s captivated with Vivian. Supportive friends are too few. If only others were like PC Megan Matthews and her husband Cefin who protect our secret.
A new email arrives. Kristina Yoxall, our tame journalist.
“Story understood
and appearing as attached in this afternoon’s online edition. If you approve. I
expect my usual kickback – advance details of another successful outcome.”
The story is brief and baited:
Returning Tremadog athletes, Sioned Wilkins and Rashmi Sharma, 23 and 28, have announced they are entering the Aberdaron Regatta. Their first race is on Monday. They paid special tribute to Guto Thomas of Porth Meudwy, who restored the boat they are racing. In advance of their practice day on Sunday, the former champion divers said, “Our return to the Llyn Peninsula, where we grew up, is a great honour.”
If the lure isn’t taken, I’m stumped. For now, my heart
surges. Suggesting a few word changes, I email Kristina. Then ring Guto.
“Mister Thomas, this is Sparkle Anwyl. Did you get my
message?”
“About a boat for our regatta? Yes. I have the perfect
one. Bit fancy and she should turn heads like any fine lass. But she won’t win
anything else.”
“Other than catching the right breeze, the aim is to
catch our attackers.”
“Suppose you know what you’re doing. What about in a
boat?”
We are more familiar with being in the water, but I refrain
from saying that.
“All advice is welcome. Can you help us? We aim to
collect the boat early Sunday –”
“– If you are here at 5 AM, we can help. Won’t breathe
a word about you being Heddlu. You’re one of us. Goodwill. And good
sailing.”
“Thanks. We’ll be there prompt – Sioned Wilkins and
Rashmi Sharma. Former champion deep-sea divers.”
A chuckle confirms Guto is our man – our boat builder.
A pleasant tingle as I press my bracer. G for Guto and
Goodwill. L for Llyn and Lure. A for Aberdaron. E for Edition.
LEGAL. Are we? Will CPS approve of our actions? Does it matter if the Swedish kingpins use every weapon against us? Not just gaffs, staves and knuckle-dusters, but knives and guns.
Lethal force.
[image error]
1918 US Knuckle Duster Trench Knife – https://www.atlantacutlery.com/1918-us-knuckle-duster-trench-knife
For
further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
April 11, 2019
J for Jeopardy – Azure Spark, Part 10
[Background music at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
JEOPARDY – Thursday Evening
Jackdaw
jigs keep us entertained as Kama and I relax on our patio, enjoying the evening
sun and breeze. Negesydd had adopted us and even assists on cases.
“He’s
entitled to time off too – and I’m glad your fraud case is nearing a
conclusion.”
“Once
Wiley and Ffion think we have enough material for CPS.”
Unless
the Criminal Prosecution Service feel a judge and jury would dismiss the case.
A chill settles over me. My stomach is heavy.
“I
need a witness to the assault on Stefan and Ivan – and identities for their
rich assailants if my Aberdaron case is going to progress further.”
“But
you’ll find them and the motive.”
An idea
sparks in my head and my tattoos. R for Regatta.
“Want
to enter the Aberdaron regatta? Late entry.”
Kama
leans against me and whisper-kisses my ear. “Sounds like one of your
typical ploys. A risk. And a rush. So yes.”
I
snigger and kiss her, tasting grape and lemongrass.
“If
our rich Swedes want divers who can sail, we can oblige. Ffion should endorse
the sting. With Stefan in supposed custody and Ivan on the run –”
“–
They might bite. Our lives in jeopardy as usual.” She winks and caresses
me. “So, early to bed tonight. Exercise. Tomorrow, and early swim session.
Then you devise a plan with Ffion.”
[image error]An adult Jackdaw on Ham Common, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, England ~ Photo by Maxwell Hamilton – Flickr
Friday Morning
Ffion
reads my satisfied grin as I bring her a cup of mint tea.
“Hopefully
your colleagues don’t interpret joyous rapture for what it is. Remember keep
that at home. So, I presume the case has progressed due to our custody visitor’s
revelations.”
I’m outmanoeuvred
so I hand her the flash drive with my plan. She studies the details, her expressions
ranging from a grin and nod to pursed lips with a long frown to close.
“The
money guys will balk at this – unless most of it is done off-duty. Your lives
will be in jeopardy as usual – but I expect that with you and Kama.”
“We’ve
agreed to do the training off-duty – but I fear time is short so –”
“–
We might need to fast track your diving licenses. What’s your current
status?”
Our
wild water swimming is already challenging. Ffion knows that. Lying isn’t
necessary.
“More
than proficient. We need more deep-water hours.”
“I can arrange that with the North West Police Underwater Search & Marine Unit – and adjust your off-duty days. Issuing a license won’t be a problem. You want to leak the bait through the press?”
My body
thrills at the thought of decisive action. My fingers tap bracer studs.
L for Lure. O for Off-Duty. And J.
“Our
tame journalist will spread the fake news. She’s reliable – despite her
jealousy at our not-so-glamorous jobs.”
We
laugh together. The plan will only work if the rich couple are desperate after
losing Stefan and possibly Ivan.
Too
many variables.
“Why
do you think the Swedish couple need divers and a fishing boat?” Ffion
raises her eyebrows.
Our
wildcard. “The freighter jettisons its illegal cargo off Aberdaron. Divers
are needed to recover the goods.”
“Interesting
lateral thinking. What inspired that? Wine or passion?”
Her
teasing eyes prompt an honest answer. “Both.”
Memories
of our evening – after Negesydd hopped away – blood my cheeks and send finger spirals
up my spine.
I force
them down and let my tattoos feed in.
K for
Knowledge and Kama. I for Intrigue. L for Lure and License. J Journalist and
Jeopardy. O for Off-Duty and Ops. Y for Yield and Yester-eve.
KILLJOY.
Our penny-counters or someone else?
Ffion’s
smile turns serious.
“When
this case is closed, I have a new mystery for you both. It’s minor – non-CID
incidents now. But ones I’m watching. Seemingly unrelated jewel thefts – low
value items, trinkets but from tourists.”
“Intriguing. When you want our input, let us know. Meantime, I’ll work on the diving scheme.”
“I’ll
monitor the jewel incidents – perhaps let you see something in advance.
Unofficially. Get some judicious feedback.”
[image error]Rose Gold Pendant –http://celticandwelshjewellery.co.uk/product/rose-gold-pendant-26/
For
further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
April 10, 2019
I for Intent – Azure Spark. Part 9
[Background music at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
INTENT – Thursday Afternoon
Intuitive interviews are rare, but I have an instinctive
partner. Wiley keeps the doctor and nurses entertained – distracted – while we
talk to Vic Vaughn.
Vic attempts confused and almost succeeds. Nonsense phrases
and swaying head suggest insanity or evasion.
“Where are you from in Sweden?” I ask. His feigned
English is inadequate to con us.
Vic shrinks. “I’m no illegal immigrant. I’ve valid
visas from your embassy. Expensive but I pay, legally.”
“And your present job?” Kama studies him intently.
“Where is it?”
“I can’t go back – yet. I’m Stefan Mikaelsson, a
landscaper from Ince-in-Makerfield. They know.”
His gaze flicks from side to side. Kama and I interchange
our probing inquiries.
“Near Wigan. Who knows?” she asks.
I taste his fear and feel the trauma.
“The guys that need us to dive. Their identity is
unknown. Rich and Swedish but that’s all I know.”
Blood races and tattoos tingle. Inbred? Resist hasty
conclusions. There must be more.
Breathe. Don’t rush him.
“Your friend ran. Do you know why? Ellis Evans – what’s
his real name?”
“Ivan Tjäder. He fears them too. But he’s a fighter and
challenges them once. All we wanted was to race the boat.”
What does a Swedish company want with an Aberdaron fishing
boat? And divers? Not treasure. Smuggling?
“What did the couple demand?” asks Kama.
“After you completed the course?”
Stefan’s eyes dart between us. “They pay for the
training. They expect us to dive at night – for sea jewels, they say. Ivan
accuse them of lies and refuse. Call them gangsters. We all fight.”
“Where? With fists?”
My finger taps G for Gaff as he replies.
“On their yacht before sailing, by a jetty near
Llandudno. We use fists, but they have hooks and staves.” His head droops
with my heart. “Then I wake here. Confused until memories come. I can’t
leave.”
I anticipate Kama’s reply.
“You will be safe with us in Porthmadog.”
I tap my bracer studs.
I for Identity, Ivan and Intent. J for Jewels and Jetty. G
for Gaff and Gangster. S for Stefan and Staves. A for Assault and Aberdaron. W
for Wigan and Waterlogged.
JIGSAW. The investigation coming together. Or sawn into pieces?
[image error]
Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor, Wales (Image: Daily Post)
For
further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
April 9, 2019
H for Halestorm – Azure Spark. Part 8
[Background music at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
HALESTORM – Thursday Morning
Holyhead hides hindrances I need to fathom. Reasons for the
GEE package to go via Pembroke Dock. The harbourmaster confirmed ships from Scandinavia
do dock at Holyhead, although more often in Liverpool. Still, a better port for
North Wales.
I’m being hoodwinked. Taken in by a bloody herring. My
tattoos tingle and my finger taps my bracer.
N for North Wales. B for Boats. I for Indecision. NIB or
BIN.
My coffee is empty, so I leave the café. Walk along the harbour
seeking inspiration. Seagulls screech and lorries honk. Hail has driven
shoppers inside as missiles hammer wet streets.
Officially, I’m not here – not to the penny pinchers. Damn
their interference. They are my biggest hurdle. But it’s my day-off, when I get
to relax at home – or power though bends with Kama. But she is on-duty with
Wiley – in Holyhead hearing out suspects in the fraud investigation.
Cadging a lift was easy. A chance to be with Kama – for the
drive.
So near to the hospital in Bangor, yet miles away.
Interviewing Vic Vaughn is still hindered by money counters. Austerity sucks. Ffycin nhw.
The hail lets up. A brief reminder of the weekend’s storm.
Where was the Swedish freighter during the storm? Further north. Acting
normally, even though an online search reveals the freight line and GEE have
the same parent company. Harmless? Honest?
The hunch – the stab of tattoos screams guilty. Why?
Lateral moves.
Visualize the coastline. Places to avoid. Rocks. Wreckers in
another century. Treacherous areas in the storm. The Llyn has a few – most
notably Hell’s Mouth, or Porth Neigwl.
Valuable cargoes looted. Hijacked.
Smugglers. Defrauding customs.
The drab office block where I meet Kama and Wiley overlooks
the thrashing sea.
“We’re done here,
cariad.” Kama kisses me openly. “Wiley has a digression planned –
unofficial.”
He directs us to the squad car in the building’s carpark.
“A lead at the Bangor hospital – your lead.” He
grins at me. “Tenuously connected to ours But Bangor is on our way home.”
My tattoos tingle as warmth builds in waves.
R for Rocks and Reasons. E for Evidence and Evasion. D for
Decisive and Divers.
Plus, I for Intent and Investigation. B for Boats and
Buildings. N for North Wales.
INBRED. But in which way? Inherent or from inbreeding?
Wiley tunes the squad car radio to a local station playing
my music.
Kama beams. “Halestorm. Lzzy rocks.”
[image error]Holyhead Port, North Wales – http://holyheadport.co.uk/
For
further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A
to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.” William Congreve – The Mourning Bride
April 8, 2019
G for Greed – Azure Spark. Part 7
[Background music at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
GREED – Wednesday Mid-afternoon
Göteborg is well outside my remit, but that won’t stop me. Kama might have Interpol contacts, but gentle persuasion gestures. Garden products will be on the manifest of the correct Scandinavian ship dock at Pembroke Dock. And customs will have the details.
The message request to SWP permits me to go direct.
“Detective Anwyl from North Wales Police. I’m checking
on some garden products from Göteborg and wondered if you can tell me anymore
about them, the ship and the day they arrived. The goods were dispatched to Caernarfon
yesterday.”
“I can see what we have, detective. Stay on the line
while we check.”
While the music plays, my mind delves into options. Göteborg
is one, but gaff as a weapon is another. The forensic report doesn’t mention a
weapon, but something caused the injuries and the knock-out blows.
Or does gaff mean, in slang terms, someone divulged a
secret. A motive for attempted murder? Is Ellis Evans on the run from his
attacker?
“I found your shipment, Detective Anwyl. The products
referred to garden gnomes.” My
mind spins as he continues. “The freighter from Göteborg docked on Monday,
just after the storm.”
Gnomes don’t sound electrical. Glowing eyes? Garden glitter
doesn’t justify assault.
“Was the freighter carrying anything of concern to
HMRC? Was this the only consignment for Göteborg Electric Engineers?”
A click of a keyboard. “No. It was a routine import,
and the garden gnomes were the only consignment for Göteborg Electric
Engineers. Anything else I can do for you, detective?”
Regular shipment or one-time?
“Have there been other goods for GEE in the last few months?”
More keystrokes. “Not for that company. The freighter from Göteborg
has docked here once before – last month. Do you need those details? That might
take a few minutes. Anything else, detective?”
“You can email them to me at North Wales Police. If I
have further questions, I’ll call back. Otherwise, many thanks for your
help.”
Close eyes and tweak threads. Heartbeat growing.
First reaction, drugs. The only thing that might justify
assault. Unless I am being led astray. Minimal clues, minimal evidence. One man
is missing, and one man is confused – or he is pretending to be that way. No leads
on my screen, and my tattoos are silent.
Reverse gear.
I need an excuse to leave the office to interview our
remaining victim. But he needs to say something that the penny-pushers class as
‘germane’.
His wounds. Forensics must know something relevant.
“We know there were extensive claw-like wounds on the
victims. Do you know what caused them, Liam?”
“An item made of steel, but they are uneven so not a
claw-like weapon. We found no sign of anything else that might assist our
inquiries into that. Do you have a lead?”
“A theory. A gaff – a steel hook with a handle for
landing large fish. Could that have been used?”
The suggestion stumps Liam for a moment.
“Have you found one? Send it over if you have. We need
to analyse all possible assault weapons. And a gaff has a stout handle that can
be used to hit someone, causing a concussive blow to the head.”
“As I said, it’s a theory. Now a lead that I’ll pursue.
Thanks Liam.”
But where? A vague hope that might be a red herring.
Or herring as in the fishes caught by the Aberdaron boats.
Kama walks over to my desk and places a bag beside me, winks,
then heads back to where Wiley’s team are gathered. The bag is my lunch that I forgot
to buy.
Dates, ham sandwich, and haloumi cheese.
D for Dates and Docks. H for Ham, Haloumi and Holyhead.
Why didn’t a freighter from Göteborg dock further north? Pembroke makes no sense.
Ellis Evans knows perhaps.
I for Injuries and Interview. E for Evasion and Evidence.
HIDE. Is he hiding out of greed or fear? Greed if he doesn’t
want to share with Vic Vaughn. Fear if there are people after him – hired
hands.
[image error]
Team Deep Sea Flying Butt Gaff
For further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to
Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
April 6, 2019
F for Fraud – Azure Spark. Part 6
[Background music at the end. This story will be posted in full after the Challenge for those of us that like to read everything in one complete telling,]
FRAUD – Wednesday Midday
Faking a way inside GEE’s building is as fruitless as forced entry. Nothing illegal has occurred. I have no search warrant and no reason to act on a feeling – even if the tingling tempts me.
Even before I got my first tattoo as a teenage Goth – angel wings
across my shoulders – the sensation was a guide to follow or flout with fallout.
Teeth grinding, my report is curt, and I head the bike towards
Porthmadog. The speed limit on the A487 is an urge to be challenged. Wind
buffeting as I lean into the bends. Blood pumping as the bike roars. Foresight
urges I watch out for patrol cars.
I reached CID undetected.
Kama gestures to our Detective Inspector’s office door and
signs, ‘Trouble’. I nod and point to
the kitchen. Mint tea will help.
Ffion Baines stands up to the Chief Inspector, but that must
be a point at which her position is untenable.
We knock then enter, and I bring over Ffion’s mint tea.
“Thanks, Sparkle. A pity the Chief Inspector doesn’t
drink a fitting tea. Or even black coffee like you two. I fear your current
case is using too many police hours – well, according to our penny counters at
HQ. Fatuous when I have my best team unravelling it.”
“So, we’re off the case?”
“No, Kama. They say just one should remain – and
working from the office. I have my thoughts, but what do you suggest is the
best approach?”
My eyes hold my partner’s. Tears are hiding there. And the
answer.
“I will move off the case. Only one person can resolve
this – Sparkle. Her mind can fathom this maze.”
Ffion beams at us. “My thoughts exactly. Officially, you
will be assigned to another existing case, Kama. DS Wiley Yates needs someone
with your contacts assisting him on a fraud investigation. However, I cannot
stop you two continuing to discuss this case after hours. That’s impossible when
you live together, but I urge caution around this office.”
My stomach groans. Our worst fear – excepting the other’s
death.
Who knows? We’ve suspected Ffion ever since she and Marc Anwyl,
my tad, persuaded me to join CID. But suspicions would’ve remained in this
office.
“Cautious around whom? Kama and I always discuss things
quietly.”
“That may be where the snide insinuations began. You’ve
both figured I know you’re a couple as your tad did. But we said nothing. You
have every right to be lesbians in the NWP, and nobody in this office or
station has any right to abuse you for your convictions. I’m just warning you
for the sake of your relationship.”
“And Wiley? How will his team react? Not that their frame
of mind will stop me.”
“Wiley is firm. You can trust him, but I can’t be sure
of everyone he interacts with. Just be careful, please. Thank you.”
Back at our desks, Kama messages me the latest forensic
report, then walks over to Wiley’s desk.
My eyes are unable to focus. Fuzzy. Working on the same case
was a blessing. The sting in my eyes must be hidden. Even if the pain remains –
unless our hours remain similar. Bed, beach and breakfast.
At least she won’t be distracted by Wiley, the office catch – dark, tall and single. The new DC, Vivian Utkin, is welcome to dote on him.
Focus.
Forensics confirm that the two victims may have been in the
seawater – but not for long. The black substance is pitch and there are traces
of timber as in boatbuilding. There are no new leads. Another road block.
I ring the hospital. Vic Vaughn is still behaving confused
and now fearful.
“He’s afraid that I want to sedate him,” says the
doctor. “But he won’t say why I might do that. A curious case of amnesia
might cause such behavioural frustrations, but there are so many variables. The
flux following his friend fleeing. Unknown factors.”
Fearful of another lecture, I say, “please let me know
as soon as someone can interview him, please.”
“Have you found Ellis Evans?”
“Not yet, Doctor. All our units have been alerted,
never fear. I’ll be in touch soon.”
Göteborg Electric Engineers is the only remaining lead. The Skoda Octavia is one of theirs – a fleet vehicle. No
traceable driver.
Ffyc.
Stretch that frayed mind. How was the package sent? We have
the delivery company’s details.
I ring them.
“Detective Anwyl, North Wales police here. I need to
know about a package delivered to GEE today. We know it originated in Göteborg,
Sweden, but please can you tell me where it arrived in Wales? And the contents
– were they divulged?”
“I’ll check that, but I will have to call you back. CID
where?”
“Porthmadog.”
Always suspicious when we ring, but we could be anybody –
even the Fraud Squad. That would be an irony if our case was fraud like
Wiley’s. I message my suggestion to Kama. I can visualize the grin.
The phone rings.”Dashiel Gofer here. That package originated for our company at Pembroke Dock in South Wales. I believe that it came off a freighter from Göteborg. The contents were recorded as garden products. Vague, I’m afraid. I do very much hope that I have been of assistance, Detective.”
F for Fraud and Freight. G for Göteborg and Garden. A for Amnesia.
“Very much so, and we always appreciate the help.”
GAFF. From a trick to even nautical meanings. Were the marks
made by a metal hook? Whatever the game, there were victims.
Is Göteborg the lead? Or part of the gaff?
[image error]Pembroke Dock in South Wales –https://businessnewswales.com/bomboras-european-headquarters-based-pembroke-dock-wales/
For further details on this theme visit my Blogging from A to Z Theme Reveal, and on
the evolution of Sparkle Anwyl visit Snowdon Shadows.
Other A to Z Bloggers can be found via the Blogging from A to
Z website’s Master List –
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/2019/03/link-to-view-master-list-and.html
^*^
And now
for something completely different.
“Music hath
charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.”
William Congreve –
The Mourning Bride
