(Part 4)
Alan looked around the table. Most of the team looked slightly worried but motivated, except for Richard: he just looked pissed for some reason.
“There will be two teams traveling to the islands. One is our technology team here, led by Sam Johnston. His team will be airlifted to the compound on Isla Sorna and attempt to access the computer system. It is believed that, nature permitting the system may still be intact and functional. The islands were equipped with sensors and video cameras that we can use to document the animals as well.
“The other team will fly over the islands,” Alan paused seeing Richards eyes turn upon him as if to say ‘say it,’ “and perhaps making brief stops to investigate from time to time if the situation deems fit.”
“Now,” Alan asked to the table, “are there any questions?”
Ellie raised her hand.
“Do you know why the dinosaurs are dying off?”
Alan paused, Richards head rose sharply and looked at Ellie, then Alan.
“No, I don’t. But I do know that these animals are dying and we must do this quickly.”
“You handled yourself well,” Ellie whispered into Alan’s ear.
“Thanks. You get use to crowds when you have to beg for money.”
The group had finished their meeting and were now spending their last night before the trip to Isla Pena in private suites in the InGen complex building.
“Spared no expense,” Alan remembered John always saying. It was obvious he wasn’t a part of the company anymore though. The suites were more like local holiday ins except with nicer furniture. He often wondered how much control Hammond still had in the company. What they had negotiated on and what he was still left with. He didn’t know.
“–but mom!” Charlie exclaimed, flailing his arms about.
“No buts! Get in there and get ready for bed.” Elie yelled back.
Charlie ran into the bathroom and closed the door.
“Kids,” Alan joked.
“Glad to see your back to your old self again.” Elie replied, smiling as she sat on her bed near the window.
Alan walked over to the other bed, and sat on the edge.
“I don’t–“
”I know, Al.” Elie interjected.
“I know. You don’t want me to go. But, something tells me to. Charlie wanted to go with me and I can’t leave him alone for a month and I don’t want him staying over some sitters a month. My mom can watch the baby, but Charlie,” Elie trailed off.
“Elie,” Alan said comfortingly, “I’m glad you came.”
“Thanks.”
“Your staying on Isla Pena, right?” Alan asked, being more serious.
“Of course. Charlie and I will watch your progress from there.”
“Ok.”
An awkward silence filled the air. Alan wanted to ask about Mark but he could tell she was still upset.
“Well, it’s late. We need all the rest we can get. Early start tomorrow,” Alan finished, walking towards the dividing door.
“Yes. Have a good night Alan,” Elie said walking up to the door, starting to close it.
“Night Dr. Grant!” came a little voice from in the room.
“Night Charlie,” Alan replied back, closing the door. He was worried about Elie. He made her promise her she’d stay on Isla Pena but he knew something was up. She and Mark were having troubles and it made him upset that he couldn’t help. He didn’t want anything to happen to them, and he would make sure nothing would.
The Initial Flurry