Notes From The Underground

"You mean that…she is…" said Kelly pointing at the petite young woman next to Echo.

"Yes K5, or as you probably know her, Kourtney Cathy Puttam" said Katrina.

Kourtney Cathy…it was all too obvious. But Cathy had never said anything about any of this. In fact she had said that although she was kept confined on Island she had not been mistreated. "But why did you let her go?" asked Kelly.

"Your raid on the Island created a serious problem for Zax. You had managed focus the public's attention on our breeding program and negatively sensationalize it thereby placing its results in jeopardy. Worse, the resulting controversy coupled with your organization's previous and ongoing crusade threatened to seriously undermine the Servitude Laws not to mention the New Social Contract. Neither could be permitted. In order to quiet things down, Zax was forced to placate your organization. Keeping your companion ultimately required revealing additional information and facts that might prove, how shall I say, difficult to properly manage" said Katrina.

"And so you let her go" said Stacy.

"Yes" said Katrina, "so we let her go."

It was all clear now, too clear. But it still did not quite explain why Cathy had betrayed them. "It's all very convenient" said Erin, but it still doesn't explain why Cathy would betray us."

"For that, you will need to ask your companion" said Katrina.

"Why Cathy? Why?" said Erin.

Cathy looked down and wiped her tears and spoke for the first time since they had entered the storage facility. "Isn't it obvious" she began, looking at Erin. "They had my daughter, even though they let me go. Do you know what it's like to have to leave your daughter? Especially after carrying her inside you for nine months? It's impossible to describe the emotions, the turmoil, the self loathing and hate. No one actually gets pregnant anymore in order to have a child and now I understand why. It's too hard to bear any loss…" Cathy stopped and started crying again, her tears running down her cheeks and falling on the floor at her feet.

"Cathy…" began Erin.

"No!" said Cathy, "don't you dare!" Forcing herself to clam down, she wiped the tears from her eyes and continued. "Zax told me to keep quiet when I left, if I ever hoped to see my daughter again. So I did, it was that simple. But as the years went by they weighed on me. For I knew, that although Kourtney was relatively safe for the time being, eventually she would turn 18, and then…"

"And then she would become a diapered slave" said Erin.

"Exactly" said Cathy. "Then Prudence approached me about two years ago. She told me that if I wanted to spare Kourtney I would need to cooperate with Zax."

"So you betrayed us" said Erin.

"It's not that simple" said Cathy.

"What do you mean…" began Erin angrily.

But Cathy cut her off. "It's not that simple Erin! Prudence gave me a choice. She said that Zax was concerned about Varinia, now that the Children were coming of age. They did not want a repeat of the publicity that had occurred twenty years ago and were determined to eliminate Varinia once and for all. She told me that I could either persuade you to voluntarily disband and abandon any further attempts to modify or eliminate the Servitude Laws or assist Zax in eliminating Varinia for good. If I complied, Zax would release my daughter, and if I refused, then they would diaper her as soon as she came of age."

Kelly and Stacy looked at each other, stunned by Cathy's story and its obvious implications.

"But why didn't you tell me?" said Erin.

"I tried Erin! I tried so many times, but you were always so zealous about your 'cause' and adamant in your opinions. I feared that you might try another raid on the Island and I knew if I told you and you refused to give up, that would be the end for Kourtney. Like you, I know what its like to be diapered and humiliated. To spend your life in constant shame and embarrassment without hope. I could not let that happen to her."

Erin looked at Cathy coldly. "I can't believe you didn't trust me enough to confide in. Given the circumstances you would have certainly persuaded me." she said finally.

"Oh Erin! I did try to persuade you! But you would never listen. How many times did I ask you to quit so that we could get married and put everything behind us? But you were always so self-consumed and stubborn. Still I did not give up easily; I kept after you and after you, but without success. When time finally ran out and I was forced to make my decision. And an awful terrible decision it is to choose between your lover and your daughter. I am not proud or happy about my choice, but at least I saved my daughter. For I knew that I could never save you from the temptation of making that one final and inevitable mistake; if you had not been caught this time, then it would have certainly been the next time or the time after that. I knew that you would never quit."

Erin sighed and looked at the floor. She knew that deep down Cathy was right. She would never have quit. But still, they could have at least worked something out…Suddenly Erin felt very tried and deflated. She had lost; Katrina and Prudence had anticipated their every move. All she could hope for was to make the best deal she could with Katrina. If nothing else it might buy them some time. After all, even Katrina had hinted that they had a few 'opportunities' left (although Erin was not quite sure what they were, nor did she expect Katrina to tell her). Looking at Katrina she said "You said that you did not want to publicize Cathy's involvement here tonight. Surely if you have us arrested word will get out."

Katrina looked at her, eyes sparkling with anticipation, like a chess player waiting for her cornered opponent to miss the last critical move that would finally bring an end to the game. "Unfortunately true" she said.

"Perhaps we can come to an agreement then" said Erin.

"Perhaps" said Katrina.

Erin looked at the older woman and thought carefully. Katrina was playing her cards close to her breast, revealing nothing. She could see that Zax would not want to remind the public of its affairs regarding the Children, especially given the recent diapering of Kathryn and the imminent diapering of the other three girls. News of another sensational raid in behalf of these young women would almost certainly cause problems for Zax. Problems that Zax would clearly wish to avoid at such a critical moment. This left Erin with an ace or two to use in her behalf. However she knew that she would have to be careful.

'It's clear that this is a critical time for you" she began. "Although we might be convicted our judicial investigation would certainly raise the public consciousness and create controversy. This could prove problematical, at best for Zax."

"True" Katrina said. "And what do your propose?"

Erin held her breath. This would be the critical moment for them tonight. "You let us go, along with Kourtney. In return I will disband Varinia and we will all disappear, leaving Zax to pursue its plans without any more interference from us."

Katrina smiled slightly and looked at Erin coldly. "Your hand is not quite that good. Although the publicity from your hearing could prove quite troublesome, it would not be enough to prevent Zax from proceeding with its plans for the 5K's. Zax has weathered storms before, bigger ones than this, and it has always survived, if not thrived. In addition, it would not be wise to leave you free to resume your activities against us at some later time. As long as you are all free, this would remain a very real possibility and a potentially serious threat to Zax. You will therefore have to do better than this."

Erin frowned. Was Katrina bluffing? Looking at the older woman she could see her determination and confidence. But Erin had little left to bargain with, the aces in her hand were disappearing fast. However the thought of having all her friends arrested and sentenced to life-long servitude because of her mistake and stubbornness was not something she could allow either. She would do anything to prevent that. "Suppose I surrender now, plead guilty to whatever charges you make. You can have me. The others go free and Varinia is disbanded."

"No!" said Kelly and Stacy simultaneously. "You can't do that Erin, we won't allow it!"

Erin looked at them and shook her head. "You have no choice." Then to Katrina she said "Well?"

"Throw in your two eager companions here and we have a deal. However, you must all plead guilty. I am sure you know what the charges and consequences will be. There is to be no publicity."

Erin looked at Stacy and Kelly. They were both pale, but each woman nodded at her, silently acquiescing to Katrina's harsh terms.

"Done" Erin said.

Turning to Cathy, Katrina said "You have fulfilled your part of the bargain." Motioning to Echo, she said "Your daughter, as agreed."

Echo had been stunned by the drama that had just unfolded before her. Never did she dream that her records would have been put to such use. When she and Kourtney had stepped off the transport an hour ago, Prudence and Alex had been waiting along with the troupe of guards that now surrounded them. Prudence had briefly explained what was happening. Echo had been surprised and Kourtney confused.

"You used my records as bait?" she had asked astounded. Prudence, of course knew about the records from the beginning. She had understood Echo's desire to keep a private copy, and had reluctantly agreed. The purpose, to which she was now putting them, had greatly surprised Echo.

For her part Kourtney, was totally confused and the Headmistress's conversation with Prudence did little to enlighten her. Not that she was all that curious. The idea of meeting her mother and the mystery that surrounded her, consumed her thoughts. "Where is my mother?" she had asked.

"You will meet her shortly" said Prudence. "Be patient a while longer."

And now the moment had come. Kourtney had waited silently by her Headmistress's side along with Prudence and Alex trying to follow the conversation that had just taken place. She had been very surprised to see Alex and India there and questions about Kathryn had instantly come to mind. But when she had spotted Cathy she had immediately recognized her mother. It was like looking in a mirror and seeing an older and wiser version of herself. Her mind had immediately blocked out any remaining conversation like so much background noise and she had become preoccupied with her own questions and the mystery surrounding her mother.

Now the Headmistress, nudged her forward, and presented her to Cathy. "This is your mother, Cathy" she said.

Cathy looked at her daughter and tears started flowing again from her eyes. She had of course, seen short vids and pictures of Kourtney through the years. Zax had granted her that much, whether to tantalize, torture or threaten her she was not sure. However she had never seen her in person. Extending her arms, she embraced Kourtney, holding her tightly, eyes closed, and tears running down her cheeks.

"Mother, why are your crying?" said Kourtney, surprised by the older woman's reaction.

Cathy managed to get control of her emotions and said "Because I am so happy to see you at last."

"I am too" said Kourtney "Are you really my mother?"

"Yes" said Cathy.

"I hate to be short" interrupted Katrina "but our business here is concluded." Motioning to the captain, the guards closed in, surrounding Erin, Stacy, and Kelly.

Erin looked at Cathy and Kourtney and any animosity that she might have felt evaporated. "Good luck" she said has the captain led her past Cathy.

Cathy looked at Erin and said "Erin…"

"It's OK" said Erin walking past her. "It's OK".

As the guards led the three women out of the storage facility India (who had been uncharacteristically silent while she watched the entire proceedings and who was now totally confused by seeing Kourtney and learning about her relationship to Cathy) said "Will someone please tell me what's going on here?"

Echo grabbed her by the arm and led her towards the exit said "Later."

India opened her mouth so speak but Echo's look silenced her. For once, the world's most celebrated party girl was left with nothing to say.

Chapter 9: Life before Twilight

Echo and India few back to the Island together in the same transport Echo had taken over to the City with Kourtney. India, of course, had pressed Echo for the details about Cathy and Kourtney and she had told her curious companion about Prudence's call and startling revelations.

"Incredible!" India exclaimed when Echo finished relating the details to her. "Prudence never mentioned anything to me!"

Echo frowned and said "Or me either. It seems you have been more in the know the entire time, so I wouldn't fret too much."

"I guess so." said India brightening a little. "Still…"

"I would advise you not to go there" said Echo dismissively, shaking her head. Although Echo had known just how ruthless Prudence, Katrina and Zax were, she had still not been quite prepared for what had transpired that night. Perhaps knowing some of the participants had clouded her objectivity and personalized the entire episode more that she would have thought possible. However no matter how events were spun, Echo had to admit the chilling impression they left on her mind. Prudence and Katrina and Zax in general, were forces of nature beyond the understanding and control of mere mortals like herself. As such, Echo had gained a new respect for her mistresses and (although she did not like acknowledging it), a new sense of fear.

India seemed oblivious to all this, as usual. In a way Echo envied her ignorance and the peace of mind that went with it. However, she had more important things to worry about; chatting ideally and speculating with India were both fruitless and a waste of her time. She had not been able to discuss Kourtney's new disposition with Prudence before they left. Prudence had been in a hurry as usual and had left immediately with Alex and Katrina. Now with the transport due to land in less than an hour, Echo needed to decide on a story to tell her remaining charges about their 'missing' companion. Clearly, the truth (or for that matter anything even close to it) was out of the question.

A sudden illness or accident, although a bit implausible, would certainly provide a temporary cover story for a few days or perhaps a week. Unfortunately, Echo needed something of greater duration and durability. Although Karolyn's 'wedding' was coming up quickly, she would need an explanation that would account for Kourtney being absent for at least a month or more.

"Why so silent?" said India

Echo sighed and said "I was thinking about what to tell Karolyn, Krystyn, and Krystal about Kourtney. When we land, they will be up and about, and no doubt wondering what has happened."

"I hadn't thought about that" said India, becoming uncharacteristically thoughtful as she pondered the implications of Echo's problem.

"Perhaps you could tell them she had an accident or got sick suddenly" said India.

"I already thought of that" said Echo. "But at best, it would account for her being absent for at most a week. I need something longer."

"Hmm" said India. "Maybe you could say her mother turned up and…"

"No" said Echo shaking her head. "That would lead to entirely too many questions. I need something less dramatic and more self-explanatory."

"Hmm" said India again.

Both women sat in silence for awhile as they mulled the problem over. After a few minutes India said "Perhaps you could say she was invited some where."

"Perhaps" said Echo. "The question is where?"

India was silent again for awhile and said "I know! You could say she was invited to take a tour, perhaps with me..."

"An invitation!" said Echo thinking fast. No not the kind of 'invitation' India was thinking of, but perhaps an invitation to participate in an academic program. The mathematics community was always sponsoring something or other; it was their way of attracting and identifying new, young talent. Perhaps she could say that Kourtney had been selected to participate in a special program for the mathematically gifted at the University. Yes…that would be entirely plausible given Kourtney's interest and talent in mathematics…

"You're a genius!" said Echo.

"I am?" said India surprised and happy at the sudden praise.

"Yes. I can tell the others that Kourtney had been selected to participate in a special program in mathematics at the University for gifted young women. It's the perfect story."

"How boring" said India wrinkling her nose.

Echo looked at her travel companion and sighed. Some things never changed.

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The captain and her troupe led Erin, Stacy, and Kelly though a side door that connected the storage facility directly with the detention center. For Erin, the trip was surreal and later she would find that she was unable to recall any of the details. After some formalities, they were separated. Each woman was ushered into a small cell containing a bed, table and chair, toilet and sink and windowless door. After stepping inside, Erin could hear the chamber door being locked behind her, as the captain silently departed, leaving her alone in the small room.

Erin sat down on the bed, exhausted and rubbed her face in her hands. It had been a long and terrible night and the prospects for the day which would soon be starting were not promising. Erin lay down on the small bed and closed her eyes. Her mind was awhirl with thoughts, none of which she was able to focus on. She felt dizzy despite her prone position and shut eyes; her emotions were in taters and she could not feel anything; neither anger or sorrow or even frustration.

Cathy had been right all along. She had been operating completely out of her depth and the inevitable had finally happened. Although Erin wanted to be angry at Cathy, if for no other reason than to have someone else besides herself to blame, she could not muster the required energy. Down deep in her mind she knew that if Cathy had not betrayed them, then Katrina and Prudence would have found another way to foil their plans. That much was sure. Still…how could she have been so foolish and reckless? Erin moved her forearm over her head and she could feel tears running from the corner of her eyes, down the sides of her face and onto the pillow. After awhile fatigue, dizziness, and emotional exhaustion took their toll and she fell into a deep but troubled sleep.

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When Pam and June returned to the Ranch they were shocked to find Cassandra waiting for them. "What happened?" asked Pam.

"Erin has finally gone and done it" said Cassandra grimly.

June looked at Del, who shook her head and said "I think we better go inside and sit down."

When the four women were seated in the conference room Pam said "OK, let's have it. Where are Erin and the others?"

"They were caught" said Cassandra "plain and simple."

"But how?" said June incredulous. "We neutralized the communications of Zax's agents. I even fried my own communicator" she continued, holding up the small device.

"That wasn't the problem" said Del.

"Then what?" said Pam a bit angrily.

"It was Cathy" said Del looking down at her folded hands on the table.

"Cathy?" said June. "You mean that she…"

"Betrayed you" said Cassandra.

"I don't believe it!" said Pam.