Free The Creation: Chaos Rising by Art Gulley Jr. Page A

jerked in surprise then burst out laughing. "Yeah that would do it! And if I'm not mistaking, she really did apply for one of their grants."
    "You're not," said Quinlan. "We have her application with us."
    The smile on Tyree's face disappeared. "You do? How did you manage that? Some kind of Vatican leverage with Double H's funding board?"
    "Not exactly," Quinlan chuckled. "We actually are the Funding Board; or rather the Elders are."
    The look of confusion on Tyree's face intensified. "What?"
    "The Double H was founded by the original Elders to provide a plausible front for the Presbyterii's investigative efforts," Quinlan explained.
    Tyree was stunned. "But…I don't understand. Helping Hands is a driving force in the philanthropic community. In fact, they've been a staunch supporter to dozens of Metro Detroit charities. If the organization is just a front, where does all that money come from?"
    "I'm afraid we're not at liberty to say," Sanders cut in, glaring coldly at his partner. "But I can assure you the funds are allocated from a legitimate source."
    "Amazing," Tyree whispered in awe. "I never would've dreamed the Double H was anything but what it seemed."
    "Which is why we normally do not divulge its secrets," Sanders growled, shooting Quinlan another reproving look. "To often the Vatican is criticized for its financial assets."
    "Oh, your secret's safe with me," Tyree assured the aggravated Seeker. "In fact, your revelation is quite a relief."
    Quinlan's left eyebrow arched with interest. "And why is that?"
    Tyree grimaced. "Now I don't feel so bad about ratting Nina out to you guys."
    "You did nothing wrong by contacting us," Sanders firmly told the Minister. "If Miss Delcielo truly is the recipient of our Lord's favor she will have need of the Presbyterii's guidance; and possibly its protection."
    Tyree's eyes widened with concern. "Protection from whom?"
    "No one, at the moment, but that could change if word of her talents leaked out."
    "He's right," Quinlan chimed in. "Knowledge of the future is considered by many to be the ultimate power, and there are countless factions that would stop at nothing to possess it."
    A guilty look appeared on Tyree's face. "Nina expressed similar concerns when she first told me of her abilities, and I told her she was just being paranoid. I guess I was so caught up in the miracle of the Manifestation that I never stopped to consider the possible dangers."
    "Not to worry, Father," Quinlan reassured the troubled priest. "Should Miss Delcielo's abilities turn out to be all that you say, the Presbyterii will ensure that she has the support she needs. Now if you will excuse us." He and Sanders rose from their seats. "Miss Delcielo has an unscheduled appointment with the Double H."
    A pleased grin erased the Minister's worried frown as he got to his feet as well then escorted them back to the main entrance.
    "You'll keep me posted on your progress?" he called to the departing duo.
    "We most certainly will," Quinlan assured him as he and Sanders climbed into the truck. "Take care, Father."
    Tyree waved as they drove off then went back inside the church, the door closing behind him with a gentle thud.
     
    *
     
    "G.P.S puts the center close to downtown Detroit," Quinlan announced as he wove his way through the city's morning traffic. "This freeway should take us right there."
    "Sounds good," Sanders replied, settling him self as comfortably as he could into his seat. "So what did you think of the good reverend?"
    Quinlan smiled. "He's definitely a likable chap. Seems very dedicated to his calling as well."
    Sanders regarded his friend through disapproving eyes. "Is that why you were so candid with Presbyterii business,"
    "I guess you could say that. There's something very trustworthy about him; an almost child-like exuberance."
    "Yes, he does appear to be a very earnest person," Sander, grudgingly admitted. "He's also still very much in love with our subject."
    Quinlan chuckled. "Oh,