Chapter 11 of Shiva’s Messenger

Catwalk Away from the Russian Guns

“I require beautiful models for a one-day video shoot with blatant nudity.” Yuri called some of Toronto’s premier modeling agencies with a brief synopsis and just examining portfolios was a banquet for his eyes. Finally, he settled on a company that offered him one-stop service. Six girls that looked perfect for the job plus a makeup artist and manager were booked and the logistics were arranged.

He found the required video cameraman and photographer in a husband and wife team. One did still photography and the other video, with each assisting the other. With cast and crew assembled, Yuri only needed to set the stage back in Windsor.

The owner of the warehouse space was more than happy to do a short-term lease for a cash payment of several times the normal rent. The landlord smiled—without paperwork, how would he ever remember to report it on his taxes?

Yuri spared no expense on his lavish leasehold improvements. He hired an aggressive building contractor to bring his vision into reality. An unlimited cash budget and the promise of very generous performance bonuses are amazing motivators and his set took flawless shape almost magically before his eyes. As he peeled off the final tally to the delighted supplier and inspected the finished masterpiece, Yuri knew he was ready for the next phase.

[Content protected for Chevron members only]

…

“I’m wondering,” Dr. Smart sat down for a late breakfast with her new best friend and put a newspaper on the table, “if a certain person went from Manitoba to Ontario?”

“The same thought occurred to me when I saw the television coverage.” Jessica didn’t have to look at the headline to know what the doctor was talking about. “It immediately struck me as his style. It appears only disgusting men were killed.”

“What would be his point for these murders though? I’m sure the prostitution scene is only marginally, if any better after the fact. Even with the biggest floaters scooped out, it’s still a septic tank and new ones will pop up to the top.” Having recently purchased a rural acreage, not connected to a municipal sewage system, Cindy had been compelled to acquire some rather unwelcome insights into the decidedly nasty subject of sanitation.

“Barf!” The analogy evoked a crappy image that swam in Jessica’s mind. “I was planning on eating something.” The lawyer grimaced as she spooned up her teabag.

“Oh don’t squeeze it dear.” Cindy captured the girl’s hand before Jessica could squish the liquid from the soggy pouch. “That just makes it bitter and then you have to add extra sugar.”

“Maybe Romero just removed some dregs because there really isn’t enough honey to give the sex trade a sweet taste.” Jessica took a sip of her tea and savored it. “He’s up to something though and it keeps getting bigger each time out. It’s like he’s practicing for something and except for Winnipeg, he has a tendency towards places closely bordering the U.S.A.”