Despite the illogical and bizarre, but very real dream connection that Jasper had with the Pearls and the critter, he shrugged slightly. Whatever was going on here was no concern of his; he had his orders.

"Sorry, guys, I'm not into sharing. Move it!"

Slowly and reluctantly, looking almost as if he wanted to cry, the smuggler placed the converter into Eliza's case.

Gibson's voice spoke into Jasper's ear. "Guys, move on, now."

"Converter in the box," said Jasper to the listening Gibson.

"Copy," said Eliza's disembodied voice beside Jasper.

Jasper kept his weapon trained on the smuggler. A moment later, Gibson's voice spoke in his ear. "Good job, Sergeant. Undetected. Back to base."

"Affirmative," Eliza's voice replied promptly. "Jasper? We're good. Get out of there."

"I'm on my way," Jasper responded. He hesitated, then grabbed the pearl from the table. It, too, was evidence. Igon watched, helpless, fuming.

"I'll find you, Federal Agent Jasper," he sputtered, almost choking on his rag