Page 21 of Escaping my Dragon

“Yes stupid. This place kills even the strong and experienced.”

“Did you need any help digging into Greenfield?” I had contacts, some less than legal, that could uncover the doctor’s secrets, assuming he had any.

Noah shook his head. “No need. I doubt there’s anything of interest. Besides, the fellow is likely dead and of no threat.”

“What if he jumped before the helicopter went into the volcano?”

“For someone who prides herself on debunking crazy theories, I’m surprised you’d even suggest that.”

“So, not possible.”

“Highly unlikely. But even if he did somehow throw himself out, that would put him on the volcano, exposed to the gases, the elements. Even if he managed to not die of poisoning, he’d still have to descend the volcano and walk over twenty miles for safety.”

“You could do it, I’ll bet.”

“If I survived the gas, probably, but I’m a trained marine used to harsh conditions.”

“Think the doctor left behind a note explaining his actions?”

“Not that we’ve managed to find, although it does appear premeditated. He pretty much cleared out his room. His computer and most of his gear are gone.”

The ground underfoot shook, the third time since I’d roused. “Would the chopper crashing in the magma be the reason why we’re getting more tremors than usual this morning?” As if asking triggered it, a fourth one hit. A tiny shiver, but still worrisome.

“Could be the fuel agitated the magma. It will likely calm down.”

“Likely is not the word I want to hear,” was my wry response.

His lips curved. “I’m sure there’s nothing to worry about.”

“Guess you won’t be babysitting me today while you investigate.”

“I’m sorry. I know we’d planned to visit Blood Falls.”

“Wouldn’t have seen much with this thick fog.”

“It won’t last. Forecast shows a strong wind will clear it out.”

“Good, because this thick fog is reminding me too much of that Stephen King movie.”

“For a woman who likes to debunk, you seem to watch a lot of movies about the supernatural.”

“I think of it as research.”

He arched a brow and I laughed.

“Fine. I like them because I know they aren’t real. The evil in them is one hundred percent make-believe, which I prefer over real news and movies grounded in reality.”

“I can understand that.” A gust of wind blew past, tugging at the hair I’d hastily pulled back in a clip.”

“What will you do now that our plans have been postponed?”

“I’m not sure, but I’m sure I can find something.”

“I might suggest not straying far from the station today, as the whipping snow can quickly disorient.”

“Guess it’s going to be an interview day, assuming there’s anyone left.” I’d already hit the people of most interest.

Noah hesitated before blurting, “Or you can come with me to take a peek at what Greenfield was doing before he died.”