A HAWAIIAN CHRISTMAS CAROLE

Written by Cathy Richardson

Don’t forget to be kind to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! Hebrews 13:2

December 8^th 1971

The first time Danny Williams saw Carole Lawson in the flesh was the last time. The world wasn’t young and carefree either. Death came to her violently. A young life snubbed out taking a header off the 14^th floor of the Hawaiian Surf Hotel while Hawaiian tourist from all over the world enjoyed the December weather and the locals went on about there everyday lives. The events of that night would change his life forever.

He had been walking down Kalahaua Avenue, its palm lined walks suggested peace and tranquility but that would not be the case tonight. It had been a long and grueling week and he was ready for a break. He normally thrived on living at a brake neck pace, barely taking a breath or time to enjoy the Paradise in which he lived but it was different this week.

Glancing down at his watch Danny was sure he would be late. He had told Steve that he would meet him at Nicks at 8 o’clock but had decided to walk. He had been in a strange humor the whole week and had hoped the walk would clear his head. Nothing he could blame on any one thing. He would have to admit the cases had been some of the stranger ones he had worked since being at Five-0; seems the Christmas season brings out all of the crazies. Steve had him working out security for the Governor Jameson’s annual Charity Christmas Ball. The Governor had decided to invite several important and wealthy aristocrats this year including the Vice President of the United States. It wasn’t that he didn’t think he could handle it, it wasn’t any of those things that he could single handedly blame on his mood. He always managed to make the best of the holidays with lots of great friends, serving Christmas dinner at the old mission for the homeless and occasionally making a trip to the mainland to visit his Aunt Clara. Those things always seemed to get him through but this year he was missing something and wanting something that he couldn’t put his finger on.

Maybe part of it was Jane’s death. (Episode-Beautiful Screamer) It had been a year and even though his heart was still sad and had a piece missing that could never be filled he couldn’t say that her death was without question the cause of his conflict. As a matter of fact he felt like his life had become complacent and fulfilled. He had convinced himself that his life was mapped out for him and Jane was not to be part of it. So he buried himself in his job and friends and tired not to think about what could have been or will it ever be.

Even though Pearl Harbor Day brought reflection and remembrance every year, this year had been different as well. Yesterday was business as usual for most of Hawaii with all of the hoopla that Pearl Harbor Day brought. He, year after year had learned to get through the day with little more then a few headaches and heartaches as well. But this year he had been bothered by the fact that his memories of that day and before were fading. There were NO heartaches yesterday, at all. Thinking it was a good thing at first, it now upset him. Was he really ready to forget? All the years of wishing and hoping that the memories would not haunt him and leave him in peace. Now he almost mourned their loss. His birthday was another day he didn’t want to celebrate anymore. Boy was he definitely in a strange humor. He loved to celebrate anything, loved to see the look on people’s faces when they were surprised and happy, especially Steve, not only did he look surprised, although he thought most was put on, the embarrassment that he seemed to exude was priceless. Steve McGarrett, big tough head of Five-0 did not take surprises and being fussed over well. But this year he hadn’t even given any thought to presents for Christmas or Steve’s birthday party. He usually had most things bought or planned by now but this year he hadn’t even given it the first thought until now.

He knew Steve had asked him to Nicks because it was his birthday but he wasn’t in the mood for it and he certainly was not up to the Christmas season that was upon him. Everyone in Hawaii was gearing up for the Holidays. There was nothing like Christmas in Honolulu. Everyone had started decorating right after Thanksgiving. Even though a tropical climate the islands where decorated with bright lights. Everything that could be strung with them was, including the palm trees and boats in the harbor. The Santa’s with their surf shorts were already out in full force collecting their yearly stash for the Salvation Army. There was definitely Christmas in the air swirling all around him by the trade winds that blew upon the shore. As he passed shops along the street Danny could already hear sounds of Christmas songs emitting from them, most traditional but there was always the ones with Hawaiian style that made them unique. Ones he had came to love while growing up here. He had to admit the streets and buildings were breath taking and the weather impeccable but he just couldn’t get himself out of this slump. Danny wanted desperately to shake the sudden fatigue and restlessness that had somehow now consumed him.

He was suddenly startled out of his reverie by the sound of shouts. When he looked up not twenty feet away there were four young boys harassing an old bag lady on the sidewalk in front of him. They had turned over her grocery cart and had proceeded in throwing her belongings. Playing keep away with something that she desperately wanted back. What was it he had just been thinking? The holidays bring out all of the crazies! Maybe he should have driven instead!

Without thinking, it was impulsive. He picked up his somber stroll to a quicker pace as he yelled at the boys to stop what they were doing.

“Hey! You boys leave her alone. Stop Five-0!” Danny yelled.

That was all it took. The boys took off in four different directions throwing whatever it was they had been tossing back and forth into some shrubs. There was no use in trying to catch them. Just a few bored teenagers getting their jollies by picking on the homeless. The homeless often became targets of cruelty and hatred. If those boys had to live just one week in their shoes they might think twice, Danny thought. He had befriended most of the local homeless that lived in the doorways, back alleys and under the monkey pod trees in the local parks. They were often very useful when he needed to find someone or needed an inside tip. The homeless with their dirty appearance often gave the impression that they were not intelligent and were commonly overlooked. When in actuality they were quite smart and lot of them very educated. People whose lives had just taken the wrong path, and were down on their luck.

As he walked up to the poor old woman she was down on her hand and knees trying to retrieve bits and pieces of her belongings as the people coming down the sidewalks walked big wide paths around her not offering to help her, acting as if she had the plague. Or better yet treating her as if she were invisible. Where was all that Christmas spirit today, Danny thought to himself? Lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

“Here let me help you.” Danny said as he up righted her shopping cart. Most of the homeless had their own carts and it held everything in the world that they possessed.

“Oh thank you my darlin’!” the old woman said to Danny as she continued to pick up items lying on the ground. “You are a sweet boy to help an old woman.”

Danny had helped to pick up everything that spilled out, things that an ordinary person would find completely useless but seemed to hold some special meaning to her and that is all that mattered. He reached over and took the old woman’s hand and helped her to her feet. The woman standing before him was not one of the homeless that he knew; he figured she must have migrated here from another part of the island. She was slight built, short in stature. She was a haole woman but with skin that was tanned to a leather like appearance from so many years and too much exposure to the sun. Her hair had turned a silvery gray, was a bit wispy and stringy but she had it tied back with a rag. Her face had high gaunt cheekbones with earnestly blue eyes peeking out above them with some well earned wrinkles for added effect. Her age was not easily discernible. But she could definitely spew dialogue from the tiny mouth that set on her lovely, yes lovely he thought to himself, face. She seemed to be wearing everything she owned in the way of clothing and it is was very tattered and worn, and dirty. All the homeless seemed to layer their clothes and take them off and on as the temperatures changed.

“Now darlin’ I must again thank you. You are my savior tonight” she said as she reached up and cupped Danny’s face in her hands. He was surprised at the gesture but was unable to take his eyes from hers. Some strange feeling washed over him like a fever and he stood there looking like the one in need of help. “Well darlin’ my name be Eddy and I thank you so kindly for helping out this poor old woman from the likes of those young ruffians.” The old woman said again.

Danny finally coming back to his senses; Eddy what a strange name for a woman he thought before he replied “Well Eddy it is nice to meet you and it is really no big thing. I am sure someone would have helped you out if I hadn’t come along. My name is Danny, Danny Williams.” Danny replied to Eddy.

Eddy had walked over to the shrubbery where the boys had thrown the object that they had been teasing her with; as they had cowardly departed. She appeared to be looking for it. Danny had walked over with her and continued to help her search, not sure what it was he was looking for or why he even bothered. He had only looked for a moment when he spotted it, a small stuffed grimy brown teddy bear. He retrieved it and announced to Eddy that he had found a stuffed bear and was it what she was looking for? She had stood back up from her stooped position and gave Danny a great big toothless grin.

“Yes my darlin’ Danny that be what it is I be looking for.”

Danny started to hand it over to her but for some reason he was drawn to the dirty little bear and as he was holding it in front of him he couldn’t help but notice its missing eye and little faded red vest that it wore. He hesitated as he handed it to her taking in the little bear with its torn arm and missing fur. It for some reason had sparked an old memory but he couldn’t grasp onto it. It would not come to the surface.

“This little fellow, he makes it not so bad, the loneliness you know? And he helps me to remember and not to forget.” Eddy said in a solemn voice as she gently took the little stuffed bear from Danny’s hands.

Danny stood speechless. It hadn’t been ten minutes ago he had been feeling sorry for himself and out of sorts. It sure didn’t take much to humble someone. He did wonder what she meant though, ‘not forget’?

“Now my darlin’ Danny what is that I owe ya?” Eddy jumped back to life.

“Eddy you don’t owe me anything, besides I am a police officer; it was my duty.” Danny said to Eddy trying to get her to think he had only helped her out of duty so she wouldn’t feel that she owed him. “But if those boys come back and bother you again; you tell them Detective Williams at Five-0 has their number.” Danny said with his lop sided grin.

“Now I must get going, I am meeting someone,” Danny said hoping Steve would not be too upset over his delay. Surely he wouldn’t. After all he was helping a lady in need. He figured he had better pick up the pace he still had about four blocks to cover.

“Well Miss Eddy, Mele Kalikimaka.” Danny said as he turned to leave his company.

“And a Happy Birthday to you my darlin’,” Eddy said with a wink as she pushed her shopping cart down the sidewalk.

Danny had only taken three or four steps in the opposite direction when he was stopped dead in his tracks by what Eddy had just said. The look on his face was that of total bemusement and just as he was preparing to turn back around he heard the most eerie, bone chilling scream he had ever heard. And one that would haunt his dreams for many nights to come. When he looked people were staring and pointing upward at a person free falling from one of the upper floors of the Hawaiian Surf Hotel. He stood transfixed, unable to move a step, all he could do was watch as the person fell to their death and landed on the pavement below. It all happened so fast there was nothing to be done but watch. But as the person hit the pavement, Danny looked away; he could not make himself watch.

***

Steve McGarrett sat at the table in a remote area of the restaurant that he had reserved the week before, ALONE. Danno had not showed up. He was normally punctual but he had not been himself as of late. Music played in the background and waves of new costumers were making their arrival. Steve had intentionally picked Nicks, a bit pricey for him personally but this was a birthday dinner. He was sure Danno probably thought he had forgotten and was pleased to see Danno’s face light up when he had asked him to dinner. He never told him it was for his birthday, it was just one of those unspoken thoughts. Steve had hoped a birthday dinner tonight would bring him back around. He had not ever been big at giving out presents for birthdays or any holidays for that matter but had always found himself wanting to do something for Danno. They had become very close, not only at work but also as friends. He found himself puzzled at his fondness for Danny Williams but tried not to over analyze it. Life was good right now and he was glad he had Danno to share it with.

Steve knew this time of year was a bit rough on his second in command and he often found himself over compensating. Trying to keep him busy with menial tasks and some very important ones as well. Losing his parents when he was very young and then having a birthday the next day was more then he was sure most people could keep from being depressed about; especially at a time of the year when other people were celebrating. But Danno had always managed to keep himself up and busy and at least give off the appearance of cheer and enthusiasm. This year had been different. He was not sure when it had all begun and he wanted to kick himself for not noticing sooner but his Aikane was not himself. He had been moody and distant and had even caught him snapping at people he would not normally ever snap at. Other then him, Danno generally never snapped at anyone. And when they butted heads he knew it was because in certain ways they were so much alike and wanted the same things. He always felt that is what made them so close. They complimented each other; they could brainstorm like no other person he had ever had the pleasure to work with. He had hoped this evening Danno would open up and let him in on what was on his mind.

Glancing at his watch for the umpteenth time he was just about to get up and try to give him a call him he heard sirens, lots of them. Rushing to the door he joined a group of individuals that had already beat him out to the sidewalk in front of the restaurant.

The echo of sirens came to Steve McGarrett with a deafening force. Being a police officer he would have thought he would have gotten used to the sound over the years but found it always gave him a chill to hear them; knowing somewhere, someone was in danger or in need of help. Tonight it was especially chilling and he wasn’t sure if it was just the sirens or the trade winds blowing on shore, but along with the chills that consumed him was an accompanying feeling of dread that he couldn’t shake.

As he watched he saw they were stopping just a few blocks up the street and along with the swarm of tourist and locals he made his way in that direction, forgetting about dinner as he turned back into law enforcement mode.

***

By the time Danny Williams had reached the person on the pavement a crowd had already gathered. The noise and cries of the crowd was nothing more then a distorted muffle of miasma to Danny. He had seen death first hand on more occasions then he cared to remember. As a matter of fact he had been forced to walk a fine line between humanity and insensitivity / compassion and professionalism early on in his career. Steve has been sure to see to that and for what it was worth it had not been a bad thing. (Episode- And They Painted Daisies on his Coffin) It had made death much easier to come to grips with. To separate ones self from the horror and grief that came with the job was definitely NOT a bad thing. But this time as he approached the person lying on the pavement separation would not come so he took a deep breath and tried to push away the feeling of nausea as it swept over him.

The words returned to him with a vengeance; don’t bleed Danno as he ran his fingers threw his sandy head of curly hair and surveyed the gruesome scene. Lying in a distorted and mangled position in a pool of crimson that reached far beyond the body was a young girl wearing merely nothing more then a sheer robe. Catching Danny’s attention lying not too far from her head was a red Santa hat with its white ball already turning to red. Seeing it lying there had for some reason touched him beyond belief. He was bleeding all right!

He knew without checking that she was dead but as if on auto pilot he knelt down and checked the carotid artery on her neck for a pulse. He wasn’t even sure he had identified himself. Everything seemed to be in slow motion as if this was all a dream and Danny was hoping that it was. Muffled sounds and blurred images invaded him and time seemed to hover. Danny could see nothing but the macabre image of a beautiful young girl lying dead before him. And all he could hear was himself whispering, “Oh God WHY?”

Not knowing how much time had passed he realized someone was covering the young woman with a blanket and emergency personnel had arrived along with several HPD officers. He was jolted back to reality by a hand on his shoulder.

“Hey Danny what have we got, another kid that thought she could fly?”

When Danny had realized the question had come from Officer Greg Lieu he forced himself to turn away. “Yeah, that’s what it looks like.” Danny said as he stood from his crouched position. He looked upward at the curtains that were blowing in the wind several floors above them, the place that not moments before a young life stood and contemplated death. Or did she Danny wondered?

“Hey this isn’t Five-0’s thing why did you get the call Danny? Officer Lieu asked. But Danny never evened bothered to answer the question he just walked into the hotel lobby stopping briefly at the front desk to inquire as to what floor and what room she had jumped from. He flashed his badge and retrieved the room key and then made a swift departure for the elevator.

***

Steve McGarrett reached the spot where everyone had converged; In front of the Hawaiian Surf, one of the most luxurious hotels in Waikiki. He could see a body covered on the pavement as he approached. Everything seemed to be under control and he needed to get back to Nick’s in case Danno showed up but for some reason was compelled to peek at the body lying beneath the blanket on the ground. Walking over and stooping down he raised the corner to reveal a young woman who must have felt life offered no other way out.

Standing up he was interrupted from his musings when a young HPD officer spoke.

“Sir, I didn’t think they called Five-0 for suicides? Danny…” the officer said before catching himself. He was never sure how Steve McGarrett would handle his sometimes lax procedures as him and Danny had known each other for sometime. Rethinking he changed the way he addressed Danny to. “Detective Williams even beat you here.”

Steve McGarrett snapped a quick look over his shoulder at the officer with a guise of surprise on face he asked, “He did?”

“Yeah he went up there.” The officer said to McGarrett as he pointed to the window several floors above.

McGarrett glanced up at the curtains that blew in the wind over a lanai’s railings several floors up. He then proceeded into the hotel disappearing to the officers and medical staff below.

***

Steve McGarrett entered the excessively large and grand suite directly off the main corridor where Danny Williams stood among a hodgepodge of various colored pills and liquor bottles. He appeared to be very unaware of his entry and seemed to be scrutinizing something. Walking over to where he stood, he gently reached up and placed his hand on William’s shoulder.

“What do we have Danno?’ Steve McGarrett asked his second in command as he studied the room around them.

“A Christmas Carole…” Danny replied in almost a whisper and mostly to himself.

Steve was startled by the statement. He usually could read Danno pretty well but this had come out of no where and made no sense. He immediately drew his attention back to him. “A Christmas Carole? You have my full attention. I guess you are going to tell me what that is supposed to mean?” Steve asked.

“Carole Lawson, C-A-R-O-L-E Lawson born December 25^th 1951. A Hawaiian Christmas Carole! She was getting ready to turn twenty-one Steve. Somebody’s Christmas baby.” Danny said as he stood in a motionless and weary stance holding the dead woman’s driver’s license.

Steve McGarrett looked at Danny Williams at that moment like an older brother sometimes looks at a younger brother. This time, not as a boss. His aikane looked tired and detached. He had been worried about him earlier in the day but now his worries seems to be compounded. He needed to get him out of here.

“Well it looks pretty open and closed Danno. Looks like she had herself a little pity party and took the easy way out. Let HPD handle things and let’s get out of here.” Steve said.

Danny Williams head instantly glanced up into Steve McGarrett eyes. He was shocked at what had come from his mouth. But almost as quickly as he looked up he looked away as if defeated. He was just too…. too something. Too tired, too depressed? He just didn’t know and instead of engaging in a heated debate with Steve he simply just surrendered. Steve was certainly still in separation mode even if he wasn’t.

McGarrett continued his survey of the room with its lavish carpet and furnishings. This was definitely high class. Carole Lawson must have been pretty well off from the looks of things. He looked over to see Danno standing out on the lanai. As he approached he could tell he was in deep thought.

Leaning against the door frame he studied his friend “Any reliable witnesses?” Steve asked trying to humor his friend.

“Yeah, me!” Danny said with a melancholy answer.

“You saw it happen, her jump?” Steve asked standing up straight from his leaning position.

“Well most of it… the worst of it anyway.” Danny said as he turned around to face Steve McGarrett. “Me and twenty other people. Tourist, locals and a bag….lady…” Danny said trailing off into thought.

Activity inside the room caught their attention. The officers from downstairs were going through the normal routine and Steve knew there was nothing they could do or wanted to do, not tonight anyway, so he said. “Hey let’s get out of here, I still owe you dinner.

“Why do you think she did it Steve? She was young, beautiful and looked to be well off. Had everything to live for. Maybe she didn’t jump, maybe she was pushed or maybe she fell?” Danny hypothesized as he stepped off the lanai and headed out the door into the corridor.

“I don’t know Danno, I guess only Carole Lawson can answer that question. And if it was anything other then suicide HPD will let us know. But Tis the season! Bruddah. Tis the season!” Steve said as they walked into the elevator. Taking a quick look at his watch he said, “Hey it’s not too late, you still game for dinner? I am sure we can pick up something and take back to my place if you don’t feel like Nick’s.”

Looking over at Steve and giving him a half hearted grin he said. “Sounds good to me.

*** The abandoned warehouse sat adjacent to a small stream. Across the stream was the chain link fence that surrounded Schofield Barracks. The warehouse had not been used in years and the rain forest had grown up around it so that it was barley visible. It had been frequented by hippies and local teenagers in the past but now it stood empty. Hidden from prying eyes and unwelcome visitors it had been the perfect spot to make all the arrangements for the upcoming shipment. They took great effort in choosing and planning their meeting location and this one seemed ideal.

The five men that now occupied the warehouse had been assigned various positions as they awaited their Boss, ‘The General’ as he wished to be called. No one questioned his authority or his rank. They followed orders without wavering for his promise of riches that they could not imagine. ‘The General’ had already proven his ability to bring such wealth to all of them in the past. He knew what it took to run an ingenious op and he knew what it took to keep his people in check, even if it meant issuing threats of death for the ones who got the cold feet so to speak. Once in, there was only one way out, which was understood from the start. The five men were of various ages and assorted stations in life but they all had one thing in common. The all felt like the government owed them and it didn’t matter how they got what was coming to them they were going to have it. The General was the brains and they were they bronze and they made a perfect band of brothers.

There were seven men in total counting the General with an assorted number of other individuals that were used to help the men with the everyday operations. One of the brothers was missing today though. He had already been given orders regarding the shipment and was excused from the meeting. But the others were all too relieved that their comrade was not present. A few of them had feelings of lingering guilt about an incident involving him and did not wish to look him in the face but it was not for them to dwell on. Each man brought with him his own forte that made him valuable to the operations that they performed. They had been hand picked for their expertise and their loathing of the establishment known as government.

The General arrived punctual as usual with his agenda ready. Nothing would/could go wrong and he was going to see to that even if some loose ends needed tied up first. There was too much at risk. His men gathered around as he barked orders, some very shocking to the men that stood before him. But what choice did they have? None! That was the truth of the matter. Do as you are told and live with it or don’t live at all. You were expendable and replaceable. Some didn’t think they were and that was their first and last mistake. He gave his orders and set the next meeting. He would keep in touch with each man individually. The next meeting would be to set up the sell of the merchandise. The General already had the buyers and now they just needed to wrap up last minute details and security. He was very nervous about doing this in Hawaii under the noses of Five-0 but in the same breath felt the rush of excitement by out smarting them. But he warned each man to be wary and to be on the alert. Some of the men were familiar with Five-0’s prominence and knew of McGarrett and his men’s reputations. But no matter how criminal it was looked upon it couldn’t be anymore criminal then what they had all suffered under the pretenses of the governments command. They were getting what was due them.

***

December 9^th

Danny Williams sat on his lanai. Sleep had not come easy for him. Steve had dropped him off at his place shortly after midnight. He had to admit that he had enjoyed the rest of the evening at Steve’s place even though his mind kept wondering back to Carole Lawson and Eddy… the bag lady.

He had poured himself a drink hoping it would relax him enough to sleep but with disturbing images and sounds that he could not discern he was jolted from a fitful sleep. He had awoken with a start at his name being called and then the screaming of a woman. When he had first awoken he was almost sure that he had actually heard a woman scream and someone call his name but as he lay tangled in his sheets the only sounds he heard was that of his curtains flapping in the wind and the pounding of his heart in his chest. He was covered in sweat and his heart was racing so fast he felt like he had been on a morning run through the deep sand of the beaches below.

Danny reached up and ran his hand through his short curly hair. He sat there trying to calm his nerves and try to remember what in the dream had upset him so much. Only bits and pieces of it remained. It was 3:00 in the morning and he was too keyed up to even try to go back to sleep and even if he had wanted to, a bit of apprehension as to what sleep might bring him left him feeling despondent. So he sat and tried to conjure up the images and sounds of his dream but when he found that they would not surface he sat and went over the events of the previous evening instead. A young life lost to despair with the help of the dirty drugs that had became a mainstay in his paradise. He couldn’t understand why the death of Carole Lawson had shaken him so. He had seen young people die before, jump right in front of him (episode-Uptight) as a matter of fact. And even though he had been upset by it this was different and he wasn’t sure why. And then the old bag lady that would not leave his thoughts. WHY? She was just a bag lady, a homeless person who he had crossed paths with. He felt like he knew her or had at some time in his life met her. And he could have sworn as he walked away she had wished him a Happy Birthday. But that was not possible it must have been his imagination.

He had to meet with the Lt. Governor at 10:00 this morning about the Christmas Ball and go over the itinerary. Governor Jameson was not limiting his choice of big wigs to invite this year, he was inviting them all and Danny had to make sure all the bases were covered. He had most things well in hand and only had a few loose ends to tie up on his part and then it was up to the organizers. Danny yawned and rubbed at his tired eyes. Since sleep wasn’t a possibility he decided to get started he might even beat Steve into the office this morning. But first he had someplace to go.

***

Driving into his parking spot at the Iolani Palace this particular morning with its towering palm and banyan trees; Steve McGarrett was surprised to see Danny Williams LTD already there. As he stepped out of his car he pulled his overcoat up closer around his neck as an unseasonably cool breeze blew in from the nearby ocean. The weather had changed dramatically through the night. Even though it was December they usually enjoyed a much warmer day then sunrise had brought.

It was right at seven and Danny very seldom beat him to work. It had been late when he had dropped Danno off last night. He had seemed to try to have a good time but had been quite shaken over the girl that had jumped off the 14^th floor of the Hawaiian Surf. Or maybe it had been something else; he couldn’t be sure. A combination of things seemed to have his kaikaina troubled and out of sorts. All the men at Five-0 had had a tough year. Everyone of them had been injured at some point during the year (Episode-The Bomber and Mrs. Maroney- Episode-Highest Castle Deepest Grave- Episode-And I want some candy and gun that shoots-Episode-Rest in Peace Somebody) Maybe he was making more out of it then was really there but he would make a point to talk with him about it before the office filled with people. He needed him to be at his best with the security details for the Christmas Ball but he was troubled by his mood and behavior as of late. The dinner plans had fizzled out last night as well as his plans to discuss Danny’s mood. So now he planned to seize this opportunity. Danno always managed to betray his innermost thoughts and secrets, at least to Steve.

***

Danny was startled out of his slumber by a hand on his shoulder. For a brief moment he was uncertain as to where he was. The images and sounds had returned to his sleep and he had been glad to be awoken as if something foreboding was on the horizon. The sounds of a woman screaming and someone calling his name.

“Danno you taking up sleeping at the office? I thought I dropped you off at home last night?” It was Steve McGarrett that had waked him.

Danny had finally realized that he had fallen asleep at his desk. He had spent two hours driving the streets of Waikiki looking for an old bag lady. He didn’t know why and he certainly wasn’t going to reveal that tid bit of info to his boss. How could he explain something that he wasn’t even able to comprehend himself?

“I guess I dozed off going over these last minute details for the Ball. I wanted to get a head start this morning.” Danny said pointing to the file that lay open on his desk.

Steve reached over and gently slapped him on the back and said. “Well Danno you know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men. Now how about starting us some coffee and then come on in and we will go over what you have.”

Danny running his hand over his hair and letting forth a big yawn said. “Right, be right in.”

***

Danny felt extremely tired but not just physically, mentally as well. He felt drained of all his reserves. He knew Steve would see through him but he would try to put up a front as long as he could. How could he expect Steve to understand his mood if he couldn’t grasp it himself? He would just play it cool and hope to get through another day.

Danny finished making the coffee and grabbed the file from his desk and headed to the large koa door that led into the head of Hawaii’s elite police unit, Steve McGarrett his boss/ his best friend. Yes his best friend, he must try to remember that Steve was not an enemy and that he knew he truly cared about him. He had demonstrated this many times in the past. Not too many years ago he had helped him when he had had similar feelings, but then it was different. Then it was feelings of just needing to know about his parents and what had happened that day many years ago. (Fan Fiction- Skeletons in the Closet) He hesitated as he reached for the doorknob trying to compose himself before he entered.

Opening the door to Steve’s office Danny put on his jovial face and hoped for the best. “Coffee’s on, but I can’t guarantee you will be able to drink it when it is done. Jenny is the coffee connoisseur around this place.”

Steve turned his attention back to Danny. He had been watching the weather outside. And with a small smirk he said. “Well on a day like this anything will do. Mother Nature is in rare form today. It has dropped ten degrees over night, and that is a cold breeze. Someone needs to call a cop, this is criminal. This is supposed to be Hawaii!”

The statement caught Danny’s attention and he glanced over to the window. The weather had been fine when he had come in from his excursion around town. He walked over to the window and stared at palm trees as they danced in the sky. He could tell it had been raining hard and the day appeared to be dreary; reflecting his mood he thought. And then the thought occurred to him and before he knew it he had said it quietly but out loud. “I hope she finds shelter.”

“What was that Danno?” Steve asked puzzled by his second in command’s statement.

Danno turned around with a look of evasiveness on his face. “Oh I just said I hope she minds her manners. Mother Nature. It would be a shame to ruin the Christmas Holiday for the tourists that have come here for the good weather.”

“Yeah I know what you mean. Now on to business. Fill me in on how the security is going for the Ball. I know without a doubt you have all the angles covered.” Steve said as he walked over and sat down behind the big wooden koa desk.

Danny filled Steve in. He had been in contact with the Secret Service and had given them all the help they had asked for as well as the other diplomat’s security people. He had assigned several HDP units to various positions throughout the hotel. The grand ball room at the Royal Hawaiian was a challenge for anyone setting up security but Danny had managed to cover all the entrances and as well as the routes from they would be using on their way to the hotel, that is the ones that weren’t staying there. He had Kono do back ground checks on all the caterers and hotel personnel. All was left was for him and Kono to go over it with the Lt. Governor and that was scheduled for ten this morning. By the time he had finished going over the file they could hear the outer offices filling with talk, laughter and the normal morning routine.

Danny had stood to leave when Steve had agreed that everything was in hand but was stopped short by Steve saying. “Danno just a minute I would like to talk with you about something else.”

Danny resumed his seat in front of Steve’s desk and said. “Sure Steve I am all ears.”

“Danno is something wrong? I mean is there anything on your mind? You haven’t quite been yourself as of late?” Steve asked

“Just have a lot going on. That’s all Steve. You know Pearl Harbor Day and the Ball. Just have a lot on my plate.”

“Danno are you sure that is all? You’ve been distant and preoccupied lately. If there is something I can help you with you know I am here for you?” Steve said in a concerned voice.

Danny looked flustered, he had not covered up anything, Steve saw right through him. Was he that transparent he thought to himself before he decided to defend himself one more time?

“Steve I am fine really! Don’t you think I can handle this? I showed you I had everything under control!” Danny found himself snapping before he knew it. And being very sorry that he had done it. But it was said and he couldn’t call it back.

“Danno of course I think you can handle this. You have already done a fantastic job. I couldn’t have done it better myself. It is not that at all.” Hesitating Steve continued. “Look Danno, you just look tired and you have been out of sorts. I know this time of year is a little rough on you and I just thought you might need a friend that’s all.” Steve said in a lighter and softer voice then was usual for him. “And last night you were really wrung out over the jumper off the Hawaiian Surf. I am just concerned my friend.” Steve said as he got up and walked around to where Danny was seated.

“The jumper has a name, Steve! Remember, Carole Lawson?” Danny said as he jumped up.

Steve was dumbfounded. Where had that came from he thought but just as he had started to ask Danny that very question the intercom on his desk started buzzing. Reaching over to push the button he never took an eye from his friend, as he said. “Yes Jenny?”

“Boss Che Fong and Doc Bergman are both here this morning and would like to see you. They said it is about a woman who jumped last night.”

“Send them right in Jenny and bring some coffee in would you please.” Steve said watching Danny’s reaction when Jenny uttered the message. And he was not disappointed in his expression. For some reason this girl had gotten under Danno’s skin.

The men entered promptly through the large office door with Jenny following shortly with coffee.

Steve and Danny turned to greet them as Jenny placed a tray of coffee and condiments on a small table and excused herself. “Gentlemen you are at it early this morning. What do you have for us?” Steve said as he reached out and shook both of their hands as Danny loomed in the back ground. Knowing without being told that something was amiss with Carole Lawson’s death. It had been a gut feeling.

“Well Steve we had a jumper last night at the Hawaiian Surf.” Doc Bergman the state of Hawaii’s coroner and medical examiner began.

“Yeah we know we were there.” Steve said.

“You were? It wasn’t in my report I received from HPD. Am I missing something here?” Doc asked a bit shocked.

“No not at all Doc. We,” Steve said nodding toward Danno, “just happened along by accident. Now suppose you tell me what your interest is in a routine suicide? And what brings you two here this morning?”

“Well Steve, nothing routine about our jumper, Carole Lawson age 20 died from multiple fractures/blunt force trauma from a fall off the 14^th floor of the Hawaiian Surf Hotel.”

“Yeah we know that much Doc now I suppose you are going to tell me what’s not routine about that. Right!”

“Yes, well I was getting to that part. The jump definitely killed her no doubt about that. The kicker is, I did a blood analysis and she was certainly drugged out of her mind as well. Found high levels of LSD and amphetamines. But that wasn’t the only thing. Her blood showed levels of sodium fluoroacetate also known as compound1080. A potent metabolic poison; a lethal dose. Enough to stop and grown elephant in its tracks. An Aloha Cocktail!” Doc said with emphasis. “She may have taken the easy way out; she was going to die a painful death within the hour; it causes a horrific death. I did a stomach content analysis as well and she was full of pills that were laced with it. One other thing, she was pregnant. It would be a guess but I would say three months along. Sorry can’t tell you who the father is though Steve, we haven’t advanced that far yet?” Doc added with a chuckle and then finished by saying. “I would have to say that this was definitely attempted murder gentlemen. She just beat the 1080 to the bunch.”

Danny was shocked and his paled face looked startled as his eyes swept from McGarrett’s to Doctor Bergman’s then back to McGarrett again. “I knew it; I knew something didn’t look right.” Danny said partly to Steve but mostly to himself.

“Well pregnancy could be a motive for murder. Doc was there any sign of sexual assault or abuse?”

“No Steve, neither, all of her injuries were post mortem. Consistent with the fall.”

“Che what do you have?” Steve McGarrett turned and asked Five-0’s principle forensic scientist that occupied the lower rooms of the Palace.

“Well Steve I concur with Doctor Bergman’s findings. The pills that were collected from the scene were LSD and amphetamines. They were laced with 1080. Doc Bergman is correct about 1080. It is super toxic poison and it only takes one tenth of a gram to kill a full grown man. There is no known antidote for it. You need to find its source; this could wreck havoc here on the islands.”

Getting McGarrett’s undivided attention by his last statement he uttered the words. “How so Che?”

“It is an extremely lethal pesticide that was developed during World War II by a German Chemist. Now days it is used to control pest animals from rats to larger ones such as wolves and coyotes. It is used sparingly on the mainland and not here at all. It is banned in most states. It is mostly used overseas in New Zealand and other countries. Steve this is a highly regulated poison because it can be detrimental to the environment. It is not available to the public; it takes a special license to handle it. Only certain government agencies utilize its use and then only under strict government guidelines.1080 is a white powder that resembles the texture of flour. It is odorless, tasteless and it is virtually impossible to detect in the environment. It maintains its same level of toxicity in water so it could wipe out the entire marine life population here. Not to mention it remains in the tissue of whatever it kills for sometime, possibly years in the bone marrow even, so secondary death is a real possibility. ”

“And what does all this mean Che?”

“Well Steve it could potentially kill all the animals in the food chain including birds and marine life, and not excluding Man. Like I said it has no known antidote. One teaspoon can kill over one hundred people. At one time the military tested it for use in chemical warfare but found it too dangerous and unpredictable as well as the long term devastation down the road was too risky.”

“Now that is a scary thought. We know that Carole Lawson consumed it. Is there other ways that it can be harmful?”

“Yes absolutely Steve, through skin absorption as well as inhalation. If it is here on the island you need to find it soon before it gets in the wrong hands. The people that used it to taint Miss Lawson’s drugs appear to have been knowledgeable of its consequence but if it were to get in the wrong hands the ramifications could be monumental. It is so potent and dangerous they have introduced a bill to Congress to ban it totally from the United States.”

Suddenly the lines in Steve McGarrett’s face became more pronounced. The muscles in his jaw were working overtime. He never dreamed that the young girl that lay beneath that blanket last night would suddenly become the center of some sick person’s…what? Revenge? Hate?

“So gentlemen what you’re telling me is we could have a catastrophic possibility if we don’t find the rest of this 1080?

“More like cataclysmic!” Doc Bergman piped in after listening to Che Fong’s interpretation of 1080.

“Steve the tainted pills that were left and what was in Miss Lawson’s body may be all there is here on the island. But it is a possibility that there could be more. And with that possibility it shouldn’t be taken lightly.” Doc Bergman continued.

Steve McGarrett had glanced over several times at his second in command to see if he had any input or thoughts but he had remained silent. “Doc what are the symptoms and how soon would you know if you were poisoned?

“Well Steve in Miss Lawson’s case her death had she not jumped would have appeared to have been cardiac failure from an overdose of the drugs she was taking. Basically the symptoms resemble that of a heart attack, depending on the amount and how it was introduced into the body. Points of attack would be the cardiovascular systems, the central nervous system, lungs, and kidneys. Skin absorption and inhaling small amounts could cause nausea, vomiting, anxiety, hallucinations, convulsions, labored breathing and eventually unconsciousness. The symptoms can be treated if caught early enough but most likely should someone survive they would suffer permanent organ damage. It is a no doubt a nasty toxin.”

During the entire conversation between Steve and the other two men Danny Williams stood in a fog, unable to ask or answer question had he been asked. He had been unusually quiet and he wanted to see if he had any input.

“Okay sounds like a case for Five-O wouldn’t you agree Danno?” Steve asked looking over at his friend.

“Yeah it sure does.” Danny Williams said a bit short, with a look at his Boss that even caught the other two men’s attention.

“Che were you able to find anything else besides the poison?” Danny finally asked his first question.

“Yes, I was able to lift several sets of prints but haven’t made any identification on them. I checked the lanai and its railing and it doesn’t look like there was any struggle. There was evidence that there was a second party in the room at some time but that time frame isn’t easily discernible.”

“When you get an ID on those prints let me know. And Che make it ASAP.”

“Right Steve.”

***

The other two men had left the room without Danny’s awareness. He just stood staring out the window deep in thought before he realized that Steve was talking to him.

“Danno? Danno?” Steve said as he placed his hand on Danny’s shoulder. “You were a million miles away. I guess your gut feeling on this one was right on the money.”

“Yeah I guess it was. Who do you think would poison her like that?”

“I don’t know we’ll see what Che comes up with on the prints. Maybe a boyfriend didn’t like the thought of being a father? Maybe her pimp found out she was pregnant. Let’s just hope it something that simple.”

“Steve a bit of overkill don’t you think?”

“Yeah I was thinking the same thing.”

“Let me go check with some of my snitches, surely there is something on the streets about this if it was a hit.”

“You have the Ball remember? And besides I think you are too uptight over this one.”

“Come on Steve the security for the Ball is done, nothings left but the meeting with the Lt. Governor to have him okay everything. I can do this, I want to do this.”

Steve McGarrett knew he was between a rock and a hard spot. Maybe if he let Danno have the case it would keep him preoccupied. But he was afraid the way he had reacted last night that it might have an adverse affect on him. Something was definitely on his mind. How had he known? Why was this girl’s death affecting him?

“Okay Danno, WE will do this one. Now you go to your meeting. Meet me back here afterward. In the meantime I will call Washington and check on this 1080 poison and then try to find out so more info on our Carole Lawson and take if from there. Maybe Chin can do a check to see if this 1080 was ever used to intentionally poison anyone before now.”

Danny just acknowledged Steve McGarrett with a nod and left the room, satisfied that he had been included in the investigation.

***

Kono Kalahaua and Danny Williams clambered into the big black LTD dodging the rain that now seemed to engulf their end of the island. They were meeting with the Lt. Governor David Johns at the Royal Hawaiian at ten and if traffic cooperated they would be right on time. The ride was exceptionally quiet and Kono was hesitant to say anything. The last few weeks he had been walking on egg shells with Danny. He knew that he wasn’t himself and he had made this assignment harder then usual; nit picking and making him go over things continuously. If he didn’t know better he would think that Steve McGarrett and Danny Williams had changed personalities. He had even noticed the Boss giving Danny plenty of space as trying to avoid his tirades.

“Hey Bruddah I will be glad when this Ball is over. It is making me nervous and I don’t get nervous.” Kono said trying to break the all too silent ride.

“Yeah me too. I think the Governor overdid it a bit with his guest list this year?” Danny replied in a calm voice.

“Yeah I don’t look forward to wearing that duck suit again this year either. It is hard to concentrate with that thing on. I think someone always gets me a size too small.”

Danny looked over at Kono and grinned before saying. “You mean you can’t eat as much as you want with it on don’t you?”

“Yeah well that too bruddah.” Kono said as a big grin spread across his face. Danny knew him pretty well he thought.

“Hey Danny whata ya gonna to do this year for Christmas? You know ya can come over to my Momma’s. She would love for ya to come. We’re gonna have the biggest luau this island’s ever seen, ya know what I mean? Lots of great food, music, lying around and oh did I mention, lots of food. Just relax, bruddah relax. Momma’s been plannin’ this for weeks and she wanted me to ask ya. Hey and then later that day maybe we can go up the shore and catch some waves or have ya forgot how to do dat.” Kono said trying to rib Danny and lighten his mood.

“You are lucky Kono you have such a big family. They don’t need me around spoiling their cheer and goodwill. I will probably just grab something to eat and go home and hang around the apartment for the day. But thanks for the offer. I sure do think a lot of your Mother. And NO! I haven’t forgotten how; bet I can still out surf you any day of the week.” Danny said casting a sideways glance at Kono as they pulled up to the Hawaiian Surf.

“How much?”

“How Much what?” Danny said.

“How much ya wana bet.” Kono said as he exited the car.

“Let me think on it and I will let ya know.” Danny replied as he handed the keys to the valet and caught up with Kono at the front entrance.

***

Steve McGarrett with his dark blue suit coat off and his tie loosened had one hand resting on the phone as he sat and tried to decide who to call next. He had been brooding over the early morning lab and autopsy reports. His call to Jonathan Kaye in Washington had not been returned. He needed to find out what government agency handled this 1080 and was any of it missing.

He was going to hate to give Danny the low down on what he came up with on Carole Lawson. She had three prior arrests but no convictions for prostitution in the past year. She had been paid out of trouble all three times. It had been handled through an attorney so he wasn’t sure who had fronted the money. She appeared to be living well. Her room at the Surf was definitely high class. So he assumed she must have been a high class call girl. But they normally don’t work that part of town.

They had not been able to find any next of kin to notify and Steve found this disturbing. All the prints had been identified but one and Che Fong was working on that. The pieces were fitting together or WERE they. He felt like they were being handed everything they wanted to know; At least what someone wanted them to know. It was coming together a bit too easy to suit him. Everything was a bit too tidy. Even the discovery of the poison; it was as if someone knew they would find it. But for the pieces that fit there were that many more that didn’t.

The prints most likely would turn out to be a john. But that was just another piece of the puzzle to fit in place. But the big question was who wanted her dead and why? And who did the baby belong too? And why had she jumped? And the big one is why did they go through the trouble if using 1080 when there were other poison’s that were not as traceable; everyday drain cleaner would have been sufficient. This really bothered him. Was someone trying to make a point or maybe it was the start of something really big and ugly. God he truly hoped not.

He had a call into the attorney who had handled Carole Lawson’s bail but he had been in court so Steve had asked his secretary to have him return his call. From her arrest record as well as her drivers’ license he had been able to obtain an old address. It was up on Puowaina Drive. The road that runs into the National Cemetery. A call to the residence turned up nothing. Even though the name listed for the address was for a Dr. Fredrick and Laura Lawson the person who had answered had denied even knowing Carole and hung up before Steve had a chance to tell them she was dead. He was afraid the visit there was not going to be pleasant.

He remembered there being several expensive homes on Puowaina Drive scattered among the hillside that lead up to Tantalus Drive. When Danno returned they would go back by her room at the Surf and see if anything was missed then on to the Puowaina Drive address and see why the person answering the phone refused to acknowledge Carole’s existence. Maybe Danno had been right all along and there was something strange about this whole case.

***

The meeting had gone off without a hitch and Danny Williams was in hurry to get back to the office and see what his Boss had dug up on Carole Lawson and the 1080 poison. The weather had improved, maybe Mother Nature had only been teasing. If she was he didn’t like the tease.

As he and Kono drove along his feelings of depression consumed him once again. He had felt touched that Kono had invited him to his Mother’s home for Christmas. The Hawaiian Christmas tradition consisted of a Luau on Christmas morning and Kono’s family knew how to have a memorable one. Maybe if his mood improved he would consider it since his Aunt Clara was visiting friends in Ireland this year and he hadn’t even given thought to any other options. He felt bad too after the invite; he had given Kono a hard time in the last few weeks and he didn’t deserve the kindness. Especially since Kono was still on light duty. He had only been back to work for a few weeks and the Ball was suppose to resemble a none stressful easy going assignment. (Episode-Rest in Peace Somebody)

It was lunch time but he wasn’t even hungry. His mind was wondering from Carole Lawson to the old bag lady Eddy that he had ran into last night. Maybe since he hadn’t spotted her this morning he would try the old Kapiolani Mission; maybe she had taken refuge there; it was on the way back to the Palace. Then the thought occurred to him; maybe Kono knew her. Maybe she was new and he had been so wrapped up with other things that he had failed to notice her until last night.

“Kono do you know an old bag lady named Eddy? I ran into her last night and I have never seen her before.” Danny asked.

Kono looked over in his seat at his friend and looked puzzled. “Eddy, nah Danny don’t know no Eddy. Do you mean old bag man?” Kono said with a chuckle. ”Never heard of a lady named Eddy before.”

“Yeah she said her name was Eddy. She was there last night when Carole Lawson jumped. Or at least she was right before she jumped. I think I will drive by the old mission and see if she is there.” Danny said to Kono hoping he could deceive Kono into thinking it was for info on Carole Lawson.

“Oh and Kono thanks for inviting me to your Mother’s place for Christmas and thank your Momma for me. I will let you know.”

“Hey no problem bruddah. You know you are always welcome. Hey we are ohana, right?” Kono said lightly punching Danny in the upper arm in a show of affection.

“Right, Ohana.” Danny repeated as he thought how right Kono was. The Five-o men were all the family he had except for his Aunt Clara. He had to remind himself occasionally. Little sleep and the news about Carole Lawson’s poisoning were starting to take its toll and it was just noon. He knew what had been bugging him all month. It was the family thing but he had refused to let himself think about it. He had just kept busy and too himself but in the process had not been nice to the people who really were his ohana and who cared for him and him for them. Kono had innocently reminded him and he was grateful but why was it resurfacing now; the family thing. He thought he had resolved it all long ago. Why now after all this time?

***

The Kapiolani Mission doors were open as a hapless stream of regulars filed in for lunch. Danny had hoped that lunch time would be a good time to catch Eddy. He didn’t even know why. What would he say to her? Why did he want to find her? He would cross those bridges if she was here. Kono had insisted on staying in the car not wanting to smell the food cooking he said. So Danny made his way past the line of homeless as he did he greeted each one. But there was not an old woman named Eddy. He knew all of the ones that were waiting in line.

Entering the mission he was greeted by Father Terry who ran the mission. Danny always tried to help Father Terry out when time allowed and The Father was always grateful for the help. The Father was busy with a few others volunteers serving the lunch to the line that snaked out the door and down the walk. The drop in temperature; even ever so slight brought more then usual regulars by for a hot meal. The old building that housed and fed the homeless in this part of Honolulu all year long was decorated in Hawaiian Christmas style.

Danny smiled to himself as he came through the door. There was a small tree in the corner of the dinning area. Walking over to it while he waited for The Father to catch a minute he couldn’t help but notice it appeared to be listing a bit, it had been decorated with ornaments that Danny was sure had been donated to the mission. Some looked a bit tattered but still illuminated against the lights that were strung on it giving the little tree the aura of Christmas just the same. On the top sat a small dejected little angel. She had seen her better days. Her wings appeared to be broken and she looked to be listing along with the tree. He was taking this all in when Father Terry startled him from behind. When Danny had asked him about knowing Eddy the bag lady he had informed him that he did not. The Father then went about asking some of the regulars if they had seen her on the street. But know one had or would admit to it if they did. They were all a tight mouthed bunch and seldom opened up to anything involving each other. It was their code so to speak.

With no luck Danny and Kono drove back to the Iolani Palace, the Five-0 headquarters. Danny was again consumed with a sadness that he couldn’t understand. Feelings that he thought would pass if he were to find Eddy and none of it making any sense; he tried to push the feelings to the back of his mind. He felt alone and for some reason had felt like Eddy could make things better. He knew it was a crazy thought, but that is all he had been having as of late so why would today be any different? He only hoped Steve had had more luck then him on his search. He would try to focus on Carole Lawson and the poison that could be a danger to their paradise and get Eddy the bag lady off of his mind. She didn’t seem to want to be found so he would give up the search for now.

***

Steve McGarrett sat in the driver’s seat of the big black Mercury as they followed the curving black ribbon of highway along, passing under the Lunalilo Hwy, on his way to 1020 Puowaina Drive on the outskirts of Honolulu. His second in command sat in the seat directly next to him being so quiet that he had to look several times to see if he were really in the car with him.

Danny Williams had arrived back at the Palace shortly past noon and Steve had filled in him with the information he had been able to obtain on Carole Lawson. He had taken the news better then he had anticipated or maybe he didn’t he wasn’t sure he had been readying Danno right the past few days. They had made a quick stop by the Hawaiian Surf; turning up very little more then had been already discovered. The desk clerk on duty that night did remember Carole having a male visitor but was occupied with another guest and was unable to give a description. He had remembered the time as being around 6 pm because that is the check in time for the guest but doesn’t recall seeing the man leave later that evening. That left two hours between the time that he arrived and the time she jumped. A few pictures in a night stand next to the bed had been found, which Williams kept. They were of Carole Lawson and a young man. Maybe the father of Carole’s unborn child? It was uncertain at this point. There wasn’t much that was certain at his point but he had planned to change that soon.

He had given Kono and Chin both assignments. Kono to try the coconut wire for any news on Carole’s death and try to pin down her pimp. And Chin cross checking files on any similar poisonings using 1080 in Hawaii</