Star Law: A Marshal Cole Series

Chapter 30 (c)

Cole's internal AI Jem gave him a quick reminder that the stern pressure doors to Central Plaza were about three minutes from opening. He wasn't concerned yet but he hadn't heard from Orion and the plan would not work if she was not present. They had no way to communicate aside from telepathic link of a voice inside his head. But he still had no idea how it worked or how it was initiated. He was in his perch with dart gun at the ready overlooking the stern entrance. 

He glanced around and while there were people about, he did not see Orion. Not that he expected to. She had proved extremely elusive. Still, Cole felt she was near and closed his eyes and in his mind called out for her.

Orion? He asked tentatively.

I'm here. Orion's voice was clear as if she was right there beside him. You're getting quite good at this communication.

I'm not. You're doing all the work. All I did was call you.

Orion laughed. It doesn't work that way. If it did I'd be speaking to Goroshenko now.

Cole frowned. This whole psi think was hard to understand. Tell me again how this works?

He has never been able to initiate conversation. I can reach out to him but he is blocking to protect himself. Many psi people do that to create a bubble around themselves to hide.If they leave themselves open, they reveal their thoughts, can be tracked and be vulnerable. Some powerful telepaths like Singh can cut through this to send messages or act as a conduit for two way or even conference calls. But Singh could not compel a reply or even know if you received the message. Nor could he locate you even if you did reply.

This elicited a scowl from Cole. Can you message Goroshenko if you see him?

This close and with a line of sight I can get his attention replied Orion.

Cole looked around once again to see if he could spot Orion after she mentioned line if light. He saw nothing but felt confident that she was close. 

My task is to catch him first and then talk said Cole. Put him to sleep and then ask questions when he wakes.

He won't be hurt? cried out Orion in alarm.

The dart will have him asleep the moment it makes contact. He won't feel a thing assured Cole.

He's will apparate the moment he wakes if he doesn't feel safe said Orion.

We've got that covered said Cole.

Orion was quiet a moment. I'm trusting you, marshal.

The time is almost here said Cole. Let's make sure everyone is safe.