Reflection Of Evil

Reflection of

Evil

A wealth of life’s experiences can clearly be seen in Bridgette Powell’s written word. Her connection to the spirit world since early childhood, along with her journey, through studies in the scientific field and working practices has ultimately guided her to producing this unique novel.

As you turn the pages know that her intention is to unite science and spirituality. To understand they are distinctively one and the same. Through creating a character of pure malevolence, whose sole purpose in life is driven by evil and integrating their crimes with characters who have fulfilling relationships, along with the significant role of forensic science, valuable investigative procedures and the mysterious unknown of esoteric dimensions, encompasses the world of human existence with the realm of the afterlife. To know the essence of spiritual light has the ability to eclipse dark sinister forces. She asks you question her concept of the truth, personal beliefs in order to validate your own

interpretation of life and insight into the hereafter.

Factual use of forensic practices in a psychological thriller that would look great on the big screen.

Barrie Warburton, Warburton Forensics, International Crime Scene Advisor, London UK.

"Captivating read with a realistic perspective from the Investigative point of view.

Thoroughly looking forward to the next novel. "

Jade Heald, Forensic Homicide Investigator Major Crime Division, Perth, Western

Australia

"A Reflection of Evil is a gripping story linking science and spirituality to catch a psychopath.

Bridgette Powell’s insight into profiling, forensic pathology, and homicide investigation is remarkable - a must read for anyone who enjoys a truly frightening and unforgettable mystery. ". Joel Kohout, FBI trained profiler and retired homicide detective for the

Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

An interesting twist on the usual forensic pathologist’s role, a gripping story that pulls the reader in and keeps them on their toes. The author clearly understands the interwoven roles of all the agencies involved in homicide investigation and does a great job of bringing Perth and WA to life for the reader.

Dr Daniel M Moss MBBCh FRCPA Forensic Pathologist Department of Forensic

Pathology PathWest Laboratory Medicine Perth WESTERN AUSTRALIA.

Dedicated to my wonderful parents

In loving memory of my father

Peter Lewis Powell

For his love, laughter and warmth of spirit

Knowing we shall meet again

And

To my beautiful mother Marjorie Powell

For her love, guidance and creation of treasured memories

With Love Always

First published in Australia in 2012 by

MBS Press (Mind Body Spirit)

A division of Pick-a-WooWoo Publishers Nannup, Western Australia 6275

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © 2012

The moral right of Bridgette Powell to be identified as the Author and Christopher Jon Brunton to be identified as the Cover Artist of the work has been asserted by them in accordance with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means electronic, mechanical, recording, photocopying, or in any manner whatsoever without permission in writing

from the publisher, except for book reviews.

National Library of Australia Cataloguing-in-Publication entry

Author –Powell, Bridget Title: Reflection of Evil Edition: 1st ed.

ISBN 9781921883170 (pbk.)

Dewey Number A8234

Publishing Details

Published in Australia – MBS Press (Mind Body Spirit) (A division of Pick-A-Woo Woo Publishers)

Editor

Rachelle Hardman

Printed & Distributed for AUSTRALIA

Printed and Bound in China on behalf of APOL Australasia Pty Ltd Distributed by Brumby Books and Music;

Printed & Channels in US/UK/Canada Printed through Lightning Source (USA/UK) Distributed in

United States

Ingram Book Company; Amazon.com; Baker & Taylor

Canada

Chapters Indigo; Amazon Canada

United Kingdom

Amazon.com; Bertrams; Book Depository Ltd; Gardners; Mallory International

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, organisations, places and events are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or locales is entirely coincidental.

www.mbspress.com

Reflection

Of

Evil

Forensic Science unites with Spirituality

In this spine chilling murder mystery novel

By

Bridgette Powell

Prologue

With a gentle tug, the silk scarf covering her eyes fell away. Her beaming smile froze clown like as she took in his malevolent expression. Then she heard the humming emanating from the box at his feet. Innate fear paralysed her senses as she watched him reach down and unhinge the catch, releasing the myriad of frenzied and buzzing insects from captivity. The swarming mass burst forth in a dense, pulsating cloud.

Trapped at the rear of the small, confined space she went to take a step back only to come up against the hard wooden bench. Tiny pebbles rolled underfoot and she stumbled. Unable to regain her balance she fell with a thud to the ground.

The droning throng descended, obscuring her in its dark shroud. Tiny razor sharp pricks pierced the skin of her face. Instinctively she raised her arms in defence, before they too relinquished their soft flesh to the incensed horde.

He stood in the doorway, blocking her only means of escape. Clothed in a long sleeved shirt and trousers he was shielded, protected from the animated mob.

With sheer will she forced herself up of the floor. Head down she ran at him. Gloved hands reached forward, grasping her shoulders firmly and halting any possibility of fleeing. Hysterical she began to frantically twist but his unyielding grip held her rigid.

The poison coursed swiftly through her veins and began to take effect. Swelling the back of her throat and leaving her gasping for vital breath. All strength suddenly ebbed away and she dropped her shoulders, stopping his resistance.

Looking into dark, sinister eyes she saw his exhilaration, the thrill of this encounter. Shock and betrayal assaulted the last remnants of her life. As she fell into unconsciousness and experienced the moment of her death, the last image she took with her was his evil smile of pleasure.

Chapter 1

Tahilia awoke desperately trying to hold on to her dream. The impressions faded and the voices became whispers as they disappeared into the recesses of her mind. She knew there was a message, deep within, awaiting her. Unsettled she fought through the mist of sleep and swung her legs over the edge of the bed and stretched. It was still dark outside and the birds were yet to sing their morning songs.

The steaming jets of water of the shower bought her senses alive. After towelling dry she swept up her blonde unruly curls, twisted them into a firm knot and pinned them into a neat chignon. Donning a white silk blouse, pure wool navy suit and stylish court shoes, she looked the epitome of a sophisticated professional. A touch of lipstick finished her morning ritual. By the time she was ready the coffee was brewed. Pouring a cup she walked out onto the balcony.

The first signs of daybreak were gently teasing the view before her. Soft greys yawning into vibrant colours. The blackness of the river suddenly touched by soft rays of sunlight became a shimmering expanse of diamond like facets.

It was ten years ago since she’d purchased the apartment. Smiling she remembered the day clearly. Zoe Nichols, her closest friend had called one Sunday morning saying she needed her to come and help house hunt. They had spent the day going from one property to another. Zoe had the financial means to acquire any place which took her fancy but her zany and fickle nature saw her rejecting every property at each home open they visited.

As soon as she’d opened the door to the 5th floor apartment its energy touched her soul. Instinctively feeling at home, she fell in love with it. The vista of the tranquil Swan River and Perth skyline bewitched her. All walls were neutral in colour, blank canvases, awaiting her passion, her creativity, to bring them to life, to give this space essence. Before the day was over she was signing an offer and acceptance contract after talking her father into loaning her the deposit.

Since then she’d created her own haven. The existing bathroom and kitchen were gutted and replaced by a chic, modern décor. She painted the walls with rich vivid colours, deep Prussian blue and velvet rose, contrasting hues which made her apartment warm and inviting. By adding Turkish rugs with earthy tones, placing sentimental artefacts she’d collected on her travels and photos of her loved ones Tahilia’s home became a reflection of herself and a personal sanctuary.

Zoe on the other hand took another two months to find a place she was happy with.

It had been hard back then trying to make the mortgage payments. Although she’d completed her studies in Forensic Pathology she was still undertaking her PhD in entomology, so money was tight, work days long and any precious spare time taken up completing her thesis. It seemed like an eternity ago. Leaving her reminiscing behind she picked up her tanned, leather briefcase and hurried towards the beginning of another hectic day.

Only ten minutes away from her apartment she made quick time to her office located at the Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre (QEII), one of the city’s major hospitals. It was a massive edifice. Block upon block of concrete, interlinked by vast windowpanes. Doors and passageways lead to a multitude of different wards, medical practices and therapy centres. Many people became lost in the myriad of corridors as it was not an easy place to get around.

Up on the second floor her office led off from a compact reception area. It was spacious and airy, two of the walls displayed ceiling to floor bookshelves, the third neatly lined with grey, metal filing cabinets. A large oak desk was placed close to the only window in the room. This overlooked a large public car park below.

At least up here she was removed from the cloying stench of death and decay which permeated the mortuary. A place away from the visual brutality of those violated by murderous acts or harmed through various misfortune. This was where she spent time going over her post mortem findings and lecture notes. Tranquil space, where her mind could be free, to put all the pieces of her work together. Seek the answers for those who’d lost their loved ones in unfortunate ways.

Dropping her briefcase on the desk she checked her messages, while waiting for her Personal Assistant (PA), Kiri Hekeao to arrive.

Kiri’s organization skills were exceptional. She seemed to read Tahilia’s mind and was always prepared regardless of what situation arose. Maori born, at forty eight she was a large stocky woman with thick dark hair and deep brown skin. Each day saw her wearing a different array of costume jewellery to match her colourful outfits. Chunky pieces of enamelled glass, beads and solid chains wrapped round her thick set neck and wrists. Every finger adorned with garish rings. Tahilia often wondered how she could type so efficiently with the weight. Kiri’s work was her life but once a year she returned home to the South Island of New Zealand to see her aging parents and siblings. Tahilia wouldn’t know what to do without her now. She had become such an integral part of her world.

Hearing the door open, she called Kiri into the room.

‘Good morning darling. What do we have today?’ she asked.

Returning the greeting, Kiri opened her notepad and began to transcribe the neat, orderly handwriting.

‘You have what looks to be a Sudden Infant Death (SIDS). Daniel Johnston. Nine months old. His mother put him to bed at 8p.m two nights ago. She checked in on him at 10 o’clock before she retired. Apparently all was well. When she went to wake him up the following morning he was cold and turning blue. By the time emergency services arrived there was nothing they could do. He was transferred from Princess Margaret Hospital to us late yesterday afternoon.’

‘Have his parents formally identified him yet?’

‘Yes, they have. And a Child and Family Health Nurse, has also been assigned to their care. Dr Nigel Drake, their General Practitioner has also been informed. Coroner Allsop has appointed a Detective Mike Anderson as the police representative, to oversee the investigative procedures and Dr Katherine Metcalf; the hospital clinician has asked that you call her with you initial findings post autopsy’.

Tahilia felt her emotions stirring, a beautiful young life, taken so suddenly. These deaths always hit her hard as most of the time there was no rhyme or reason why these babies died. She hated not having the answers and yet deep down she knew that part of life was accepting death. However this didn’t alleviate her empathy for his grieving parents.

‘Then we have Melanie Rhodes. Thirty three years of age. Initial cause of death appears to be anaphylactic shock. Multiple stings have been noted on the body. She was found in her garden by a neighbour late yesterday afternoon. Her family has already been in to identify her. They are anxious for you to do the autopsy. She’s had an allergic reaction to bee stings since childhood. It doesn’t make sense to them that she didn’t use her epi pen (anti allergen injection) after being stung. It has been located in the fridge un-tampered.

Depending on how long it takes for her post mortem this afternoon we really need to knuckle down and get your lecture notes done. Your seminar is only two weeks away.’

‘Thanks darling. I’ll head down now and get started. How about ordering Italian in for lunch?’

As she swiped her electronic security badge over the intricate surveillance system mentally preparing herself as she waited for the responsive click of the door. Entering the outer rooms of the morgue her senses suddenly heightened and she felt a rush of adrenaline. A vortex of energy surrounded her. The lingering essence of someone deceased. A surreal apparition, almost physically tangible drifted within the fringe of her vision, giving her a quick fright. Suddenly it was gone, leaving her unsettled.

Heading towards the change rooms she heard a faint whisper. Turning all she saw was an empty void of space.

She opened the doorway the cloakroom, and headed for a thin steel door which read number thirteen in big bold letters. Her favourite number emblazoned on her locker. She took a garment off the coat hanger. No matter how many times she slipped on the pure white lab coat a warm and familiar feeling would cloak her. A second skin, melding into her professional persona, analytical, scientific and complex, ready to put all of her years of study and experience to practice.

As Chief Forensic Pathologist, Tahilia thrived. At thirty six she was young for such a prominent position but her determination, empathy and commitment to the deceased and their grieving families had earned her the respect of her peers. She had been offered the posting in retrospect of her impeccable credentials, having studied and worked in varied forensic modalities in the United States and Sydney before returning to her birthplace, the coastal city of Perth.

In the beginning her eccentricity had seemed a little bizarre. She would request to be alone with the body of the deceased for five minutes before beginning the autopsy. No one was allowed to enter during this time and they would watch her through the glass panels of the viewing room, her head bowed as if in prayer. As time progressed she confided in a close few that her ritual accompanied by the gifts she was born with allowed her to make contact with the departed spirit. Her compassion extended beyond death as she tried to reveal whether the departed spirit was earthbound or had moved on to the next realm. The intensity of her gaze was often unnerving, as if she could see right through to their souls. Because of this some found her a little peculiar.

This aside she still managed to gain their esteem and loyalty through her dedication and the total commitment she demonstrated toward her vocation. Her clinical findings, medical and coronial reports were flawless. She worked gruelling hours beginning at 7am each morning and sometimes throughout the night or during the weekend to complete urgent post mortem examinations on homicide victims. On top of this she gave varied, informative and sought after lectures at the University of Western Australia (UWA). The only time she gave to herself was the month of July when the University closed for the mid-year break. During this time she would travel extensively with her parents or friends.

Tahilia’s delicate bone structure and petite build was a stark contrast to her formidable character. She was at times a hard task master, demanding the same devotion and hard work from those under her supervision. Her spiritual beliefs and psychic ability never encroached on her allegiance to the scientific facts placed before her. They dwelled within, like a detached duality. At times separate, while at others uniting as one.

A hard task master she may have been but her kindness and appreciation of her staff meant that they soon formed a cohesive team. In a matter of months they joined her in her ritual with a sense that something special was taking place even if they could not quiet put their finger on what it was.

Although she kept her thoughts and awareness to herself during this quiet time, she was more than happy to discuss her perceptions privately, if they made a request.

There were two Forensic Pathologists and six Technicians under her direction in the Mortuary.

Dr Tito Tao, Chinese with jet black hair, physically small in stature and gentle in nature. At fifty six he was meticulous in his methods and often used for Coronial Inquiry’s due to his expertise in many forensic areas. He had worked at the Government Mortuary for the last two years.

Dr Anita Sangster was the newest team member having only just completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science. At twenty three her athletic physique, luscious chestnut mane, fair skin and stunning features often caused men to glance her way. Her subtle personality and keenness to learn had allowed her to settle in nicely and be quickly accepted by her work colleagues.

The Mortuary Technicians although varied in age were quite similar in approach and technical dexterity towards their operational methods. Their primary responsibilities were to assist with the autopsies, collect, preserve and prepare the samples for lab collection and to set up, clean and maintain all equipment. Ultimately they provided an invaluable service, their efficiency freeing up much of Tahilia’s precious time. Maria Valentino, twenty nine and of Italian heritage, Michael Connolly, Australian through and through, thirty three, tall and lanky, Justin McKay, forty five, Scottish with a wicked sense of humour, Helen Tyler, fifty two, an energetic woman and a fantastic cook, Stephen Bell, at fifty five an intense, severe looking man and Ken Cullen the oldest of the group, sixty, plump and cheerless in nature.

Michael and Ken rarely worked alongside her preferring to assist Dr Tao so she built solid relationships with the rest of the technicians. She felt blessed to have them all in her life and to fortunate to work beside them.

As Chief Pathologist, she answered to the Coroner, as her Superior. Harold Allsop, or Soppie as she affectionately called him, was a lifelong bachelor. He was massively overweight due to his passionate indulgence of fine foods, severely balding and smelt a little like mothballs. Now well past retirement and regardless of how often people told him it was time for him to leave and enjoy his twilight years he refused to budge from his position. Those who knew him envisaged the day he would take his last breath while recording a ruling on a strange suicide or multiple homicide. Righteous to the point of distraction he had been involved in the judicial system for nearly fifty years. His passion for hard and fast justice was renowned throughout the legal fraternity, so too his intolerance for those who would not abide by legal processes, both individuals who broke the law as well as the lawyers who represented them. At sixty five he had taken the position of Coroner when offered to him. Now having just turned seventy he was comfortable in this role and knew it would see him through to the end of his days.

Coroner Allsop adored Tahilia or Tah as he affectionately called her. A nickname most had adopted. She had become the daughter he never had and his equal in intellect. Having attended all of his lectures during her University days, they had known each other for many years. Back then he was a lecturer in Criminal Law and Legal Investigation Procedures. Even in the earliest part of their relationship he’d seen her star potential. She’d often question his findings, the reasoning behind them and had an uncanny ability to see things from a totally different perspective. Now they often spent hours discussing unusual post mortems, crimes and pathological findings in order to seek out the truth. All sensitive forensic cases were now left to her. Harold knew he could trust her explicitly. She in return made sure that his reverence and esteem was warranted through her detailed reporting and the pedantic way in which she handled each set of circumstances put before her. Today was yet another day where these cases were vitally important and her major priority.

Heading towards the staff room she wanted to grab a coffee before beginning the first examination. Helen had baked some cupcakes for everyone to share at morning tea. She was enticed to take one as they smelt delicious and so inviting. But she held back the temptation, quickly finishing her drink and proceeding through the transparent, plastic sheathed doorway into the hub of the morgue.

It was a massive room, containing eight stainless steel slabs, work benches and a varied collection of wheeled trolleys, laden with a variety of equipment used specifically during post mortems. One wall housed the wet area. Large steel troughs and hoses used to wash off bodily fluids and the residue of decaying flesh.

The putrid, sickly sweet smell of decomposing tissue was a stink few got used to. Many who attended an autopsy applied menthol liniments to their nostrils with the hope of lessening the odours affect.

Another wall had a huge metal door in the centre which accessed the immense refrigerator. On either side of this entrance were individual recesses, housing stainless steel drawers which stored the deceased body’s pre and post examination within the refrigerated compartments. Other corpses were held in a large freezer area. This section was primarily used to halt the process of decomposition on cadavers who were in an advanced state of putrefaction.

The final walled surface held an array of shelves containing hordes of glass jars. These encased hearts, livers, brains, pairs of lungs and other visceral organs. Remnants of the physical vessels left behind by the departed.

Tahilia wandered over to a corner adjacent to the wet area. Five cupboards and wide laminated bench created a semi enclosed space. This was where they all gowned up prior to beginning their work.

Slipping off the lab coat she placed it neatly on a coat hanger before donning a pair of pale blue overalls, a plastic apron and Wellington boots. Hanging a face mask around her neck she pulled a pair of surgical gloves from a cardboard box and went to join her colleagues.

Today Helen and Justin were on her team, along with Anita. Gathering round the sterile slab, its hard steel surface cradled the tiny lifeless baby. Collective emotions stirred at this sight. The five minute silence and contemplation of his short life began.

Resting her hand upon Daniels fragile head, his skin was cold to the touch. Immediately she sensed that his spirit was free and unbound to the earth. It saddened her that she was unable to share with his devastated parents that their son was indeed at peace. Her role and fundamental purpose was to look at the scientific evidence only. Discover some of the answers they were looking for. Once his autopsy was completed and the relevant information ascertained, only then would she confirm his cause of death. At that time she would use her practiced strength and fortitude to step back from the parent’s emotional turmoil and separate herself from those feelings. If she became involved she wouldn’t be able to succinctly impart her findings.

She had also once tragically lost someone she adored, loved deeply. It had nearly crippled her, almost broken her spirit. Through sheer will and determination she’d fought through her agonising pain and moved forward in her life. This empathy enabled her to communicate gently, kind heartedly with those overwhelmed by sorrow.

With the post mortem just about to begin she acknowledged Detective Anderson with a slight nod of her head? He was standing in the viewing room behind a large glass window watching the activities taking place. It was procedure a police officer witness the autopsy before reporting the preliminary results back to the Coroner.

‘X-rays have been taken’, said Justin as he picked up a large camera and began to snap photographs from different positions.

‘They’ll send the films down, with a report when processed. We should have them by noon’.

After putting the camera down he went and stood alongside a wheeled trolley. An array of varied glass slides, knives, tweezers, scalpels and cutting tools were neatly laid out; all implements needed for both the internal and external examination. Anita and Helen were on the opposite side of the table in readiness to assist.

Once Daniels clothing had been inspected and removed Tahilia began the external examination of the body, making detailed notes on his appearance.

If it wasn’t for the brutal nature of the work watching her perform her duties could almost be seen as a thing of beauty. Her long slender fingers probing yet soft to the touch, her keen eye quickly assessing any anomalies such as unusual markings, contusions or fractures that may have occurred prior to death. Agile and light on her feet she glided around the doll sized cadaver like a dancer on the stage, quickly and efficiently recording her observations into a small microphone, attached to the collar of her overalls, as she went.

Having finished this she moved back allowing Justin and Helen to begin their work removing his internal organs. As each appendage was detached, Anita began the process of dissecting the tissue samples, carrying out biopsies on the muscle, skin and liver. She also took blood samples and carefully aspirated spinal fluid through a lumbar puncture. Tahilia oversaw the whole procedure staying completely aware of all aspects of the work being undertaken. It was her priority to make sure nothing got overlooked.

Three hours later having stripped off their gowns and kicked off their boots they were all enjoying Helen’s iced cupcakes and a well-earned hot beverage as they discussed the autopsy in full detail. Detective Anderson joined them. Tahilia clarified her initial findings with him before he left.

Justin and Helen were left to organize the dispatching of the samples to the Chemistry Centre and Path West. Depending on the analysis required some of the information would come back quickly while other investigations would take longer. They also needed time to clean down their work area and prepare for the afternoons post mortem.

Tahilia headed up to her office. She spent the next two hours transcribing her recorded data into a written report. Just as she was finishing Kiri knocked on the door, an aroma of garlic, cheese and rich tomato sauce wafting in as she entered carrying two plastic containers. Suddenly realizing how hungry she was, grateful that Kiri had remembered to order lunch.

‘You are such a darling’, she said reaching out for the delicious looking lasagne. ‘I think I’d starve if it wasn’t for you and Helen’.

Kiri smiled at the compliment, sitting down and digging in to her own large portion of the Italian delight.

Lunch over she called Dr Metcalf to discuss Daniels case with her.

‘Katherine just wanted to let you know the initial results of Daniel Johnson’s autopsy certainly seem to be leaning towards SIDS. The full outcome of course won’t be known for a few weeks so it would be best to let his parents know they’ll need to wait for the Coroners full report on cause of death’.

‘Thank you’, replied Katherine. ‘I’ll be seeing Ray and Pauline Johnston later today. Can I let them know he’s ready to be collected so they can go ahead with the funeral arrangements?’

‘Yes, that’s fine I’ll sign the release form. The funeral directors will be able to pick him up tomorrow morning’.

Saying goodbye she hung up the receiver.

Kiri immediately buzzed the intercom. ‘It’s nearly two o’clock you’d better head downstairs’.

Thankful once again for her PA’s steadfast organization and time management she left for the mortuary.

Descending down the stairs the same unsettled feeling she’d experienced on waking this morning returned to her. Small fragments of her dream tried to thrust forward. A sense of fear and entrapment gripped her forcing her to stop and regain her composure. She was thrust back to the feeling that had enclosed her in the cloakroom.

These types of encounters had happened to her many times since childhood. As far back as she could remember she’d been able to sense the lingering presence of souls. Those confined to the earthly plane, unable to release their spiritual energy from their human existence.

She knew with certainty someone was trying to communicate with her from the other side. Something had been left unresolved and they were demanding her attention.

‘What is it you want?’ she whispered.

Suddenly an answer emerged into her thoughts. Released from confinement it struck her with total conviction. Intuition enlightening her as to who it was. Setting a fast pace she hurried to the morgue already conscious Melanie Rhodes had a message for her.

Chapter 2

By the time she’d gowned up she felt centred and prepared for the post mortem.

Anita, Justin and Helen were standing together in the opposite corner of the morgue, talking to someone. He had his back to her but she could see that he was tall, with an athletic frame and wore a smart, grey suit.

As she approached the conversation stopped and he turned around.

Helen spoke, ‘Here she is now. Dr Baxter, please meet Detective Sergeant Brodie Halligan. He’s here to oversee Melanie Rhodes autopsy.’

He held out his hand to greet her. Steel grey eyes met hers. Returning the gesture she felt a strong, firm grip before letting go.

He seemed to tower over her small petite build and instinctively she took a step backwards.

With a mop of dark hair, gently greying at his temples, he looked to be in his mid-forties. A deep scar was etched over his left eyebrow leaving her to wonder how the injury had occurred.

‘Dr Baxter, nice to finally meet you, the Coroner speaks so highly of you that I’m looking forward to watching you work’

‘Thank you’, she answered, a little embarrassed. ‘Can you update me on your investigation before we begin?’

‘Yes, of course. I arrived at the scene yesterday after a neighbour found the body and called it in. The victim was lying face down in a garden bed, at the rear of the property. No respiration or pulse and the airway obstructed by obvious swelling. At first glance it appears death was caused by anaphylactic shock, brought on by a severe reaction to multiple bee stings.

But one thing did bother me. The lock on the greenhouse door looks to have been recently tampered with. A section of the bolt is unweathered like the rest of the latch. Anyhow, the immediate area has been cordoned off. My forensic team is out there now. So I’ll see what they turn up before I go back tomorrow.

I’ve also interviewed the parents. They are adamant she’d have used her epi pen immediately after being stung. Whether she was caught off guard and panicked or for some unknown reason was unable to get back into the house and retrieve the injection. I really can’t say.’

On the surface it sounded like an accident no one could have predicted and yet she felt something deep within, telling her there was so much more to this death.

‘I appreciate your input Detective Halligan. Now if you’d like to go into the viewing room we can begin’.

‘Please call me Brodie. And I would much prefer to watch the proceedings up close than locked away. If you’d just hand me a mask I’d be grateful.’

She felt her hackles rise in annoyance. As much as he gave the impression of a polite manner there was an undercurrent of roguish arrogance. Who did he think he was? Changing protocol and making demands.

‘It’s customary for representatives to obtain their information from the viewing room.’

‘Well, there’s a first time for everything,' he replied, smiling broadly.

‘I’m not one to follow rules, so if I can please have a mask before we waste any more time?’

Fuming she retorted, ‘Well if you’re determined to stay here then you can fully gown up like the rest of us. The garments are in the corner over there. And make sure you put on gloves’.

Her team became aware of her change in tone. They knew how precise and pedantic she was about how things worked in her mortuary.

Justin tried to lighten things up, ‘Sometimes it’s a good thing to break routine’.

She glared at him and he knew he would be in for a stern talking to later on.

Stepping aside from this intrusion she became focused, moving towards the adult female corpse lying face up on the metal slab. The rest of them gathered round.

Melanie had been a beautiful looking woman with rich auburn hair, straight aquiline nose with soft plump lips underneath. Sadly the pale skin was now covered with numerous crimson sores. Fine veins, tiny purplish-blue filaments were visible on the closed eyelids.

She laid her hands on the forehead and stilled her thoughts. Hoping to merge into a dimension which was totally separate from her world and seek answers from the dead woman. Suddenly she shivered the icy chill a sign which often accompanied a spiritual presence. Melanie was in the room.

Although the coldness continued to pervade the space she lost contact with the soul’s energy and was unable to receive a vision. Regretfully she lifted her hands away.

Brodie watched the proceedings. What the hell is she doing? Her eyes were closed and she seemed lost in her own reverie. Looking towards the others they also had their eyes shut, as if in prayer. What is this? They weren’t at a bloody church service.

He kept quiet, knowing he’d already upset her by requesting he observe up close. Obviously it was something they all practiced together. But in his mind he believed these sorts of ceremonies should be left for the funeral.

Finally it was over; animation and activity rapidly taking place.

Thank fuck for that he thought.

Justin and Helen reversed the roles they’d previously undertaken that morning. Helen took the photographs before Tahilia began the external examination.

Melanie was clothed in a white singlet top, long black track suit pants and black canvas shoes.

She wore a fine gold chain with a Saint Christopher pendant attached, a sports watch and gold and ruby set ring on her right index finger. No other jewellery was visible.

Helen removed the pieces, recording each item as she placed them in a small pouch. These would be returned to Mr and Mrs Rhodes.

Examining the outer clothing thoroughly, a few smudges of dirt were noted across the front of the singlet and also on the knees of the pants. No rips or tears were found on the garments. When she reached the rubber soled pumps she noticed that the shoe laces were tied up differently. The right one had a double knot and was firmly fixed whereas the left was single knotted, the bow appearing more uneven. Finding this odd she asked Anita to take a look.

‘What do you think?’

Anita confirmed her opinion. ‘Yes, I agree, they’re definitely not laced the same way.’

‘Justin can you remove the shoes and bag them for the lab?’

His gloved hands carefully slipped them off the feet.

‘I’m finished with the clothes too. Please bag them separately. Inform the lab I need them to compare the soil analysis from the garments and the shoes.

The body now lay naked apart from a small pair of panties. Noting the long, strong limbs it was obvious the woman had kept herself fit and toned.

There were no seminal stains or obvious signs of the fabric being tampered with and so she asked they be removed.

Tiny grains of sand were located underneath the hair just above the forehead. Smudges of dirt were also apparent on the bridge of the nose, both cheeks and on the tip of the chin. This corresponded with evidence the body had been found face down in the earth. Using tweezers Tahilia removed some of the minute particles and released them into a small dish Justin was holding. She then used cotton buds to take swabs of the facial smears which she slipped into cylinders and sealed. Opening the eyelids she noticed petechiae, small burst blood vessels on the whites of the eyes, an indication of strangulation or suffocation. She counted the multiple raised red welts on the face. These were all approximately the size of small peas. Excising five of them from different areas she felt it wasn’t necessary to deface her any further by expunging them all. Using gentle fingertips she tenderly probed the skull for any unusual lumps, ridges or evidence of injury, through the soft yet dense hair, finding nothing she moved on to the throat area. Palpating this section she noted laryngeal engorgement, indications of oedema before prising the jaw open. Visually checking the tongue for any abnormalities, she then took a fine bladed steel scalpel and extracted it. This would be analysed. Now she could observe the mouth and the larynx more clearly. Recording each finding she moved smoothly from one part of the body to another.

All fingernails were clipped and stored in small containers. These would be tested for DNA and any other relevant components. Rigor mortis was evident in the rigidity of the limbs. Arms, hands and the upper part of her chest were covered with multiple angry, red blemishes. Incising the scalpel she excised tissue samples from these regions. Toxicology would be able to verify the nature of these lesions, along with those excised from the face.

The instant she touched the shoulders of the corpse a sensation of being forced back, startled her. Quickly regaining control, determined not to halt the flow of her work, yet at the same time acknowledging this had meaning. Slightly underneath both the left and right collarbones she noticed some skin discolouration, early signs of bruising? She put on a pair glasses, specifically worn when using a fluorescent crime light before investigating further. The marks displayed initial blood pooling within the epithelial tissues, confirming the haematoma’s had been made prior to death. No anomalies were detected on the lower limbs.

Examining the pelvic region she found no indication that Melanie had been sexually violated. A vaginal swab was taken as part of procedure. After exploring the anterior aspects of the feet and toes, she asked for the body to be turned over.

Meticulously probing, assessing every inch as she continued.

Reaching the upturned soles of the feet she felt a powerful rush causing her to stumble forward.

‘Are you OKAY?’ Anita queried, concerned.

‘Yes I’m fine. Just felt a little off balance, that’s all. We’ll finish then take a break.’

Back on track, she raised the left foot noting a small unusual marking on the central surface of the arch. It was a round black dot approximately the size of a match head. Initially she thought it to be a tiny tattoo.

‘Please pass me the magnifying glass, Justin.’

Placing the round lens directly in front of her right eye she peered closer, becoming more inclined to believe the pigment was more likely ink from some sort of pen.

‘Let’s excise this and send it to the lab.’

Justin handed her a small, sharp scalpel.

Leaving an inch either side of the mark she made an incision, carefully removed the tissue and placed it on a glass slide before covering the sample with a second slide.

This finished, she stripped off her outer garments, dumping them in a laundry bin and walked off towards the staff room.

Everyone else was left looking perplexed. It wasn’t in Tahilia’s nature to leave half way through an autopsy.

Brodie didn’t know this so he said, ‘What now?’

Courteously Helen replied.

‘Looks like were having a break before we do the internal examination. How do you take your coffee Detective Halligan?’

‘Black, two sugars.’ He said frustrated but resigned to the interruption.

Discussing the strange black dot and shoulder depressions with her team Tah deliberately turned her back to Brodie cutting him out of the conversation.

‘I’m not sure this is a clear cut case of accidental death. There are a couple of discrepancies I’m not happy with. Why the clavicle region is slightly bruised? The different knots tied on the shoelaces, and the unusual black marking on the left foot? Anyway we’ll have a look at the internal organs, see if we find any other signs there.’

Brodie pushed through to the fore refusing to be excluded any longer. Before anyone else made a comment, he said. ‘The contusions on the shoulders could have occurred when she fell. Maybe she was in a hurry when tying the laces. And isn’t it possible she stepped on a pen?’

Tahilia’s frustration bubbled over. This stranger, a guest in her environment was questioning her discoveries, overriding her authority.

‘Who’s the pathologist here?’ she said, trying to curb her anger.

‘I report my findings as I see them, and you Detective Halligan, as the Coroners representative should be working with me, not denigrating the inconsistencies I’ve found.’

Brodie wasn’t fazed by her outburst. He had encountered much worse during his years in the Police Force.

‘Hey, I didn’t mean to offend you. I’m not saying you’re mistaken in your assumptions, just giving you a different point of view. Surely there’s nothing wrong in considering other possibilities?’

Refusing to engage in further discussion, she remained silent. An unsettling disquiet descended until Helen broke the ice.

‘Come on its getting late. Let’s go finish off.’

Returning to the morgue they re-gowned before beginning the next stage of the post mortem.

Using a Stryker saw Justin made a ‘Y’ incision which involved slicing downward from the outer region of both right and left clavicles to where the cuts met at a central point in the upper thoracic cavity, down the sternum and ending at the pubis, lower pubic area. This equipment had been specifically designed to cut through bone only; the intense oscillations of the blade wouldn’t damage the soft tissues yet were able to cleanly slice the bony parts neatly and efficiently. Pulling back the rib cage and abdominal tissues allowed open access to the internal organs. Utilising a razor sharp scalpel blade he detached the heart, lungs, spleen, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, stomach and intestines, weighing them individually prior to Anita’s dissection of the relevant lab samples. He utilised the saw once again to carefully separate the top section of the skull. The brain matter was removed, weighed and samples taken. Once these procedures were concluded the organs were returned to the body prior to the cranial, abdominal and thoracic tissues being sutured back up.

Melanie’s long flowing hair was put back into place around her face, covering the facial incisions. Often families of the deceased chose to view the body one last time before the burial or cremation. It was important their loved one appear close to normal as possible, to lessen the traumatic impact of this experience.

A large sheet was draped over the cadaver before being put on a gurney and wheeled over to the refrigerator section along the far wall. A metal compartment was opened and a steel cradle pulled out. Melanie’s remains were transferred over before her body was slid into the cubicle.

Depending on Tahilia’s report and her determination on cause of death, the body would either be released to her family or held onto for further investigation.

At this conclusion Brodie walked over to Tahilia.

‘Thanks for your tolerance. I know I can be a bit bull headed with how I like to do things. Anyway I’m sorry if I upset you.’

She didn’t think he was sorry at all, just trying to placate her for his earlier rudeness.

Rebuffing his triteness, she gave a little shrug.

‘If you could please let the Coroner know I’ll be in touch with him when I have the relevant reports back from the labs. In the meantime if you would please do a subsequent search of Ms Rhodes house and gardens. Collect any dead insects, especially bees, found in the vicinity so I can examine them. Also look for any black writing implements that may be in her home. I’ll speak to Mr and Mrs Rhode’s, let them know their daughter’s death is still undetermined. Make them aware we need more time to consider our individual findings’.

Brodie became irritated with her curt instructions, his calm facade slipping for the first time that afternoon.

‘As I mentioned earlier I’m going back out there tomorrow and you don’t have to tell me what I need to look for.’

Directing a steadfast gaze at him, she sensed his bravado guarding a hidden side.

‘See, now you know how it feels to have someone questioning your working methods.’

‘Touché,’ he grinned, accepting the jibe.

Leading him to the main door she used her security card to let him out.

‘Just one thing before I go,’ he said holding the door open. ‘What was that weird thing you guys did before you started the autopsy?’

‘Look I’m exhausted and really don’t feel the need to justify why or how I conduct my work, so please if you wouldn’t mind I still have a lot to do before I leave.’ With that she shut the glass panelled door on him.

A considerable sigh escaped as she watched him stroll away.

Popping her head through the door of the morgue she called out to Helen and Justin.

‘Please can you mark everything urgent? And make sure toxicology goes directly to Michael Saunders at the Chemistry Centre; he’s great at getting results back quickly. Plus I only want Bruno Dimitri working on the pathology and not that ignorant weasel, Hill.’

They nodded in response to her instructions.

‘Thanks for all your hard work today, you too Anita I really do appreciate it. However Justin I’ll be speaking with you tomorrow about the importance of following correct protocols in my morgue. See you in the morning, enjoy your night.’

Justin grimaced. He’d hoped she would have forgotten his earlier faux pas.

Kiri was still in the office when she returned.

‘You know we still have the syllabus to compile. Do you want me to stay behind? Or leave it until tomorrow? Dr Tao is doing the morning shift. You have Mr and Mrs Rhodes coming in at eight, after that you have some free time until one.

‘No, you go home darling. I’d like a couple of quiet hours to record my initial findings on their daughter’s examination. There are things I found today I’m unhappy with. I need some time to reflect and create some sort of cohesion. I want to have as much information for them as possible. We’ll get on top of the lecture notes tomorrow.

‘Okay, if you’re sure. I have a romance movie I’ve been dying to watch. Pretending I’m the leading lady is about as close as I’ll get to having a relationship.’

Tah laughed. ‘They should be falling at your feet. If I was a man I’d snap you up in an instant’.

Kiri picked up her bag. Turning she wrapped her boss in a big bear hug.

‘Talking of men, when are you going to find Mr. Perfect’?

She groaned, already aware what was coming next having heard these words a thousand times before.

‘Oh sweetie, don’t be like that. It’s only that I care and want you to be happy. It’ll never happen if you continue to keep yourself locked away. I know you love your job, but if you don’t let yourself get away from the dead once in a while you’ll miss out on knowing what it’s like to be alive.’

‘Thank you, but I’m perfectly happy with my life and not having to worry about looking after a man. So go watch your movie and keep out of my hair.’

As the door closed, she sighed, grateful for the silence. It was the first time since early morning she’d been truly alone, without the phone ringing or being interrupted.

Spending the next few hours compiling her preliminary assessment on Melanie’s examination, she found herself feeling ill at ease, instinctively knew something wasn’t right. Although aware of a presence during the autopsy, she’d received no vision or whispers from the other side.

Detective Halligan had also left her unsettled. His arrogance, questioning the inconsistency’s she’d come across. There again if she was honest he was vastly different to the usual cops assigned by the Coroner’s office. They were usually yes men, officers who just plodded along with their work, rarely displaying the aptitude or passion towards their vocation. Maybe she had misread his intent. He had been ballsy, shown a keen interest in the post mortem procedures and voiced a separate opinion. Surely she wasn’t that narrow minded that she couldn’t at least accept the possibility he may be right. She was annoyed too that a part of her felt a sense of connection to him, a strong, physical attraction, a feeling which hadn’t touched her for a very long time. She stepped aside from these disconcerting thoughts and concluded the Rhode’s report.

The corridors of the hospital were ghostly quiet as she left. Most of the hospitals patients were well and truly asleep, or recovering from surgical procedures. It was vastly different atmosphere as she entered into the emergency department, a section of the hospital which worked tirelessly twenty four, seven. The hubbub of the waiting room was a symphony of noisy conversations, howling children, scurrying foot traffic and the constant rattle of metal trolleys. As she exited the main door a whirring siren blasted out its urgent mantra. The ambulance pulled up sharply and within seconds the paramedics had the patient on a trolley, promptly whisking them through the doors and into the care of medical staff.

As midnight approached she arrived home. Stripping off her clothing, a faint stench lingered in the weave of the fabric. Walking naked to the laundry she threw the garments in a basket, in readiness to be delivered to the dry cleaners. It felt wonderful to be free of the day, safe in her own personal space, without people demanding of her. Heading to the bathroom she unpinned her hair letting it cascade down onto her shoulders. As late as it was she took a long hot shower before putting on apricot pyjamas, the soft silk refreshingly cool on her skin. She took a bottle of wine from the small, compact fridge in the bar and poured the golden liquid into a long stemmed, ballooned glass. Walking barefoot into the lounge she suddenly became aware of the flashing red light on the answering machine. Pushing the button she heard the soothing inflections of her mother’s voice.

‘Hello darling. Dad and I were just ringing to see how you are. Give us a call back when you’re free. Love you. Bye.’

Opening the sliding door to the balcony a peaceful serenity enfolded her. Although it was early April and the beginning of Perth’s autumn the night’s gentle breeze retained the balmy warmth of a summer evening. Collapsing into a comfortable, cushioned chair, she sipped the wine, while taking in the twinkling lights. A crescent moon rose high in the heavens, surrounded by diminutive stars radiating their soft glow. The view was so vastly different to that of the morning. Now the river was animated with the glimmering reflections of the city. Almost a mirror image imprinted upon the water. Large skyscrapers cut through the darkness of the night, emanating diverse colours from the neon lights advertising company logos. Looking off to the left she glimpsed the silhouettes of the boats and yachts moored at the Perth Yacht Club, as they bobbed gently on the fluid surface, the soft wind rippled across the water of the river, enchanting and mystical.

Unwinding she wished the hour wasn’t so late. After hearing her mother’s message, the comforting voice she knew so well. Her heart yearned to connect and share the strange experiences of the day. She would understand. For as long as she could remember her mother