The TALONS Files: the chronicles of telepathic agent Ryan Dart

Important Guidelines

15

"As for the rules." Declan glided towards the corner of the room. Swiping a black folder from the podium, he projected a businesslike tone. "This does not leave the campus, for any reason." He handed the folder, which bared the red TALONS emblem, to the teenager. "According to rule five, that can result in your expulsion."

"Damn that's strict."

"It's a test"

Ryan opened the folder, discovering a thick piece of paper. He glanced at Declan, "Exactly what does TALONS stand for?"

"The Telapathic Agents League Operating for National Security."

Ryan nodded, "Kind of cool,"

The teenager scanned the white sheet, which had the rules printed on it, as Declan started. "You're expected to memorize and know these at all times. It is your first assignment."

He assessed Ryan, as the LED wall displayed the first rule, white lettering on a black backdrop.

"Rule number one, You may not kill anyone or cause bodily harm using your talents, except in the actions of self defense." Ryan felt uneasy while listening to Declan read this rule. To have to be warned of something so heinous, made Ryan feel as if he were being discredited.

The LED screen on the table came to life, as it displayed an aerial view of a suspect walking the street of a small city, much like Green Bay's downtown portion. An echoed voice filled the room. "I think I'll walk across Spencer street today."

Another voice sounded. "Drive faster you'll never make it. Forget the red light, you'll be fine."

Screeching tires and a sickening thud filled the room, as on the screen a red Ford Fusion struck a man in his twenties.

Ryan's body froze in fear. "We can put thoughts in people's heads?"

"Yes, pick and choose those times wisely. Failure to do so will result in expulsion." Declan's eyes conveyed a soft warning.

He continued, "But back to rule number one, when this particular rule is broken, not only do we expel the perp, we also detain them for the rest of their lives. There is absolutely no excuse for taking someone's life, or causing harm to an individual. Understood?

Ryan shook off his terror and uneasiness. He considered the rule, realizing there was no way he'd even contemplate killing someone. Not even Caleb. "Yeah, rule number one shouldn't even be a rule, it's something that should just be natural."

Declan nodded with satisfaction and said, "Good, I'll go on to rule number two." Once again, the wall spelled out the second guideline.

"Rule number two, you may not interfere in the relationships of suspects and those close to them. They are still suspects and not convicted criminals, personal relationships are near and dear to the human mind. It keeps one healthy. Tearing an intimate bond apart for personal gain is totally unacceptable."

Ryan's head cocked, "Wait, if we can read their thoughts, we know their intentions, right? So wouldn't you know the guy is a bad guy? It seems it could be necessary."

Declan, with a casual gesture stuck a hand in his blue jeans, very relaxed as his words came professionally, yet easy. "Yes, but the act has not occurred. If we were to arrest people on mere thoughts alone, I think our overloaded detention centers would bust at the seams.

We're here to apprehend a criminal, and hold them accountable for their behaviors. Not to mention, we should do what's best for humanity.

May I continue?"