The First Tree Grove

Marxen Holt opened his eyes and focused on the last tendrils of his dream. His hands found the notepad next to his bed and he began to write down all he remembered. There had been boxes like those found in banks. Except on the front of each plate were a name and a photograph. Many faces had been grayed out while just a handful remained lit and vibrant. These were the ones he paid attention to. That was his job. To find people.

He gazed down at the names he had written; William Krietz, Andrew Davis, Samuel White, and Aleena Rigs. Four names were more than he usually found in a single dream. It was going to be a busy day.

He slid out from the confines of his warm crimson sheets. The bed retracted into its housing under the floor. He replaced the notebook on the single shelf protruding from the wall and proceeded with his daily routine.

“Good morning Marx. Would you prefer coffee or orange juice this morning?”

His living cell was simple and practical. It mimicked the way he preferred life. His cell was comprised of two rooms. One room held a shower and toilet and the other had everything else. Every inch of the floor and walls were multipurpose. He had designed the unit precisely to meet his every need.

“Coffee. As always Evie. Thank you.”

“It will be ready in three minutes.”

Marx was half-way through his cup of coffee when the com-band around his wrist flashed notifying him of an incoming call. He twisted his wrist and accepted the call. A moment later a section of the wall brightened, displaying a young woman in prime dress attire. Her hair was pulled back to give a clear view of the thin silver collar tattooed around her neck. In the center were four diagonal slashes, two silver and two black.

“Mr. Holt I apologize for disturbing you. If I may request a moment of your time.”

“Granted.” Marx took a sip of coffee. His muscles tightened. This wasn’t going to be good news.

“Thank you, sir. A violent act was reported just moments ago. Twenty dead so far with nearly a hundred injured. The suspect is unknown, but preliminary reports suggest the individual was assisted by at least one other. Dred Thomas Rigs is formally requesting your assistance.”