Rating: Pg-13.

Spoilers: Everything in the first half of the first season.

Disclaimer: I owe none of this.

Charlie blinked and looked up in astonishment. One moment he was talking to Jack, and the next they heard a massive whining sound. "What the hell?"

A flare exploded above the treetops in the jungle.

"Someone's in trouble," Jack said. "Come on!"

Both of them ran into the jungle. Not an easy thing to do, considering that it was pitch black. It was a calm, slightly breezy night. A few minutes later they emerged into a large clearing.

And saw that they were not alone. At least twenty people had already gathered. More were approaching by the second.

The man in the center was holding a flare gun. He had short brown hair, blue eyes, and a cocky smile. Jack had never seen him before in his life. The man nodded. "We seem to have enough people from the beach and the caves. Good. It's time we establish a natural pecking order around this place. A leader, if you will. And what we plan to do to get off this island."

"That's what you used a flare gun for? To call a meeting? We now only have five flares left!" Charlie snapped.

The man stepped closer until he and Charlie were eye-to-eye. "Sorry. Next time I'll whistle real loud." He smiled and turned back to the assembled group. "If we coordinate our efforts, we might actually get something done on this island. When a search plane comes by, I don't want to miss it because all of us are wandering about, sitting on our asses and doing nothing."

"So...who's going to be our leader?" Boone asked.

"Well, why don't we pick someone right now?" the man invited.

"Let me guess," Locke said. He raised his eyebrow. "You?"

"This is ridiculous," Jack muttered under his breath. "We don't need a leader. Establishing a pecking order won't accomplish anything."

"I don't know, Jack...might be a good idea," Charlie said, starring straight ahead.

"Who better?" the man answered to Locke's question.

"Jack," Kate replied quietly.

Jack felt at least thirty sets of eyes upon him. Silence in the crowd.

"How about it, Jack?" the man asked, stepped forwards. His brown hair blew in the wind. "Are you up to stepping onto the plate?"

For a moment Jack thought about it. He swallowed and looked down. "I'll go by the group's decision."

Kate gave him an unbelieving look.

The man nodded. "All right." He turned away and raised his voice. "My name's Earl. Think about it! Give it some thought! How about three days and then we'll meet back here!" He turned and left. The crowd began to disperse.

--------------------

"Waste of time," Kate muttered when they were back onto the beach.

Sawyer looked up from his book he was viewing with his flashlight. "Sorry, sweetcheeks-couldn't be bothered to go."

"Well, you didn't miss much!" she shouted to him, and shook her head. "The guy gives me the creeps. Right?"

Jack and Charlie were turned to the ocean, starring at nothing.

"Right?" Kate said. She stepped closer and touched Jack on the shoulder. "Guys?"

Jack turned. "Yes, Kate?" he asked calmly.

"What's going on?" Kate asked.

Jack shrugged. "I was just thinking about something else. I think it's a good idea, Kate-having a leader. Maybe the man is Earl. I dunno."

Kate frowned. "That's not what you said at the meeting-"

"I know what I said, Kate," Jack snapped. "Anyway, we should head back to the caves. It's been a long night."

'Yeah," Charlie agreed, grabbing his bag. "Goodnight, Kate."

Kate nodded. "Night."

Charlie and Jack headed up the small path. "What was her problem?" Charlie asked.

"Probably just tense," Jack said. "We could certainly use a leader and he's right about one thing-we're too scattered. Unfocused."

"True enough," Charlie said. He rubbed his forehead. God, he was getting tired. As he climbed up the path Charlie grinned as he thought about Earl's signal flare. That was a bloody good idea, using that. How better to call people?

very breezy day still.

"Your name's Hurley, right?" Earl asked, approaching from behind.

Hurley straightened. "That's right. Something I can do for you?"

Earl shrugged. "Just thought I could lend a hand, that's all."

"Sure," Hurley said after a moment.

Earl picked up bits of wood.

"That was quite the speech last night...I guess."

Earl shrugged. "I know that no one bought it, Hurley. At least, not yet. Maybe they'll change their minds when they have a chance to think about it. Let me ask you something Hurley-are you in a hurry to return to civilization?"

"Yeah...of course. Aren't you?"

The two of them began to walk. "To be honest, Hurley, not really. I mean, before the plane crash I was just your average businessman living in a bachelor's apartment. To me, this is a tropical paradise. I want to enjoy it for what it's worth." He paused. "What about you? What's waiting for you back there? Besides the food."

Hurley turned to him. "Hey-are you talking about my weight?"

"No," Earl said in surprise. "Not at all. Sorry, I didn't mean it like that."

"It's-it's okay," Hurley said and they resumed walking.

"Must be harsh, though," Earl sighed.

When Earl didn't reply Harley sighed. "What?"

"You know, discrimination. I bet you get lots of feedback about your size, feedback you don't deserve." Earl turned to face him. "I look at you know and I don't notice. And I know that every single person on this Island is too preoccupied or scared out of their minds with their own problems to notice. Do you think that's going to stay the same when we get back?"

Hurley was about to reply when a wave of dizziness overtook him. He bent down. "Woah. Dude."

"Are you all right?" Earl asked in concern.

"Yeah. Just give me a second."

"We'll talk later, if you want. Look, Hurley, the point is that I think you're smart and clever. And I know what it's like to have qualities people easily miss. If you help me, Hurley, I can help you."

Hurley said nothing. The firewood tumbled to the ground.

"Hurley?" Earl asked patiently. Hurley didn't reply. His eyes were blank and unfocused. Earl waved his hand in front of Hurley's face. No reaction. With a small smile on his lips Earl walked away.

Hurley blinked. "Woah!" he looked around. Who was he just talking to? "Weird," Hurley muttered.

-----------------

Earl walked down the beach and paused briefly to admire the ocean. So far he had talked to a dozen or more people and things were certainly picking up.

"Handing out fliers?" A voice asked below him. Earl turned sightly to see Sawyer lying on a beach chair. Sawyer stretched his hand. "Vote me for president of the Island and so on?"

Earl smiled slightly, before he turned back to Sawyer. "Care to hear my term objectives?"

"Just another person to try and boss us around," Sawyer said, reading his book. "Not interested."

"What if there was something in it for you?" Earl asked.

Sawyer looked up from his book. He smiled smugly. "Well now. I knew you weren't so hard to figure out. All right, then. I'll bite. What can you possibly offer me, besides an extra bedroll and some rations?"

"Control," Earl looked up. "It must be hard being a loner. Everyone talks about you behind your back, Sawyer. Laughs about you. It's no secret that everyone hates your guts."

"And you can somehow...miraculously change that status?"

"Elect me, and you can determine who goes where and does what. You can be your own boss, Sawyer, and show them just how mean you really are. Hell, I might even know a trick to make them like you. On this island, Sawyer, this possibilities are endless."

Sawyer burst out laughing.

Earl was still smiling.

Sawyer stared at him for a moment, and picked up his book. "I think I'd rather nominate Jack sooner then you. At least he's not insane." When Earl didn't go away Sawyer looked up in irritation. "Something else?"

"You don't have to be alone, Sawyer. You can have people that respect and care for you. Have you ever felt that before?"

Sawyer felt a rush of dizziness and the book dropped from his fingers and landed on the sand. Sawyer bent down to pick up the book. "Once...when I was..a kid," he said. His voice was slurred.

"Power. Affection. Hell, maybe even forgiveness, Sawyer." He nodded. "Think about it."

--------------

Charlie woke up to darkness, something which he was getting used to in the caves. That didn't mean to say it wasn't eerie, however. "Jack?"

"Already up," Jack replied, having a fire going and stirring a pot over it.

Charlie grinned and found his sneakers. He put them on. "We live to fight another day."

Jack smiled briefly.

Charlie approached the fire, and his smile dipped a little. "Oh no. Not rock soup again?"

"All we've got," Jack said.

Charlie scowled. It was basically heated water and that was about it. He cleared his throat. "Maybe I'll go talk with Locke. See if he can catch us something."

------------------------

"I still don't understand what you want from me," Locke said, focusing on the trees.

"Simple. Your support," Earl said. "I heard you're an incredibly good hunter."

Locke smiled and glanced at Earl. "Flattery will get you nowhere with me, son."

"It's not flattery. It's a fact," Earl said. He sighed and looked around. "It's tough being a loner but I can understand that. I can...certainly enjoy the peace and quiet. Trouble is, does anyone understand you?"

Locke said nothing.

"I think you're just like me, Locke," Earl sighed. "Neither of us wants to go back to civilization. We both don't want to return to that world, because we were born for this one." Earl turned to Locke. "If you help me, I will make sure that never happens to us. That you will be in charge of your own self. Able to make your own decisions."

Locke stepped closer until he and Earl were closer. He smiled. "Earl...I already make my own decisions."

Earl said nothing for a moment. Then he smiled and nodded.

Locke turned to go.

"Must be handy," Earl remarked. "Being useful. You sure weren't like that before."

Locke didn't say anything as he left.

But when Earl was way out of sight he allowed himself a frown.

-----------------------

Kate awoke on the beach and stood, brushing sand off her clothes. The first thing she noticed was Earl in the distance, talking with Sun. He said something in her language, and she laughed.

"Someone's been busy," Kate muttered. She walked over to where Sawyer was, who was fishing with a long crudely-made pole line. "Hey," she greeted.

"Hey," he returned. The sun glistened off his deeply tanned back.

"I didn't know you fished," she said.

"I did a long time ago. Not very good at it," Sawyer admitted.

Kate smiled. "Think you can find us some breakfast?"

"Actually...it's not for either of us. It's for Earl," Sawyer said.

Kate blinked in astonishment. "What?"

"He must be getting hungry, talking to all of those people," Sawyer said.

Kate giggled. She couldn't help it.

"What?" Sawyer asked.

"Just trying to imagine you, doing anything for anyone on this island," Kate said. "You're joking, right?"

"Nope," Sawyer replied. "The man's got purpose. And vision."

"So you actually approve of this guy?" Kate asked.

"Sure as hell I do. So should you...if you know what's good for you."

Kate placed her hands on her hips. "What does that mean?" she asked quietly.

Sawyer shrugged. "Nothing."

"You're being serious...aren't you?"

"You should talk to him, Kate," Sawyer said.

Kate said nothing for a moment, deeply disturbed. Either Sawyer was up to something...or Earl was.

"What's gotten into you?" Charlie asked as he approached from behind her.

"Sawyer's fishing," Kate explained.

"Oh really? Think he could catch us something?" Charlie pondered.

"No...I doubt it," Kate said. She frowned. "What are you doing here?"

"I come bearing rock soup," Charlie offered her the cold pot.

Kate sighed and looked down, without much enthusiasm. "Thanks. I'm feeling hungry already. Listen, have you talked to this guy yet?"

Charlie shrugged. "No. Haven't really had the chance. I think he's off talking with Jack now."

-----------------------

Inside of the cave Earl looked around, smiling.

Jack approached. "You wanted to see me?"

"I like these caves, Jack. They're impressive. In fact if I have to choose between the caves or the beach, I think I would choose the caves," Earl said.

Jack shrugged. "You're welcome to live in them if you like, Earl. There's plenty of room."

"Thanks. I might actually take up that offer."

A pause. "You don't trust me, do you Jack?"

"I agree with you that there should be a leader."

"Just not me." Earl stepped forwards. "So what can I do to convince you that I have these people's best interests at heart? I care about them Jack, same as you do."

Jack suddenly felt dizzy and touched his forehead. "Sorry. I-"

"Jack!"

Jack turned around. Earl stepped backwards. Locke was outside the mouth of the cave.

Jack looked back at Earl, who was smiling a little. "Excuse me," Jack said. He walked outside. As soon as fresh air hit him Jack immediately felt better. Jack glanced at Locke. "What is it?"

Locke shrugged. "Nothing."

"You called me over, and now you don't want to talk to me?" Jack said.

"Precisely. You should sleep on the beach tonight, Jack. You look a little queasy."

-------

The evening found Jack, Charlie, and Kate around a large fire-a beach party, as Charlie called it. "Beautiful night," Charlie mentioned.

"Yeah. Listen, have you seen Earl around?" Jack asked.

Kate shook her head. "Not in the past few hours."

Jack slowly nodded.

Charlie looked between them. "What? Am I missing something?"

"He just seems a little weird, Charlie," Kate replied. "Sawyer's all worked up about him."

"Yeah, and he's not the only one," Jack said. "Nearly half the people I talk to are always talking about him."

Charlie shrugged. "Guess the man has charmed. Guys, he's trying to be a leader for this Island! Of course he's going to act all...politician."

"Not Sawyer. I don't think anything could do that to him. Or I used to." Kate glanced up at Charlie and Jack. "I don't trust him."

---------

In the caves Earl was balancing on a rock and hanging something on the cave wall. He smiled a little. "Come in, Hurley."

Hurley stared at the wall, not without some astonishment. "You're hanging...flowers? isn't that a little girlie?"

"I'm a complex man, Hurley," Earl replied with a smile. He jumped down the rock. "So what brings you to my part of the cave?"

Hurley blinked. "I just wanted to say that...you're right. About me, I guess. I don't want to return to civilization."

"Of course I'm right," Earl smiled. "I know everybody's secrets on this Island."

"How?" Hurley asked, frowning.

Earl spread his hands. "I have my ways." He turned back to the cave wall. "From your particular group, I know that Sun has tried to run away from her husband and speaks very good English, by the way. Charlie's a druggie. Sawyer's pretending to be someone else. Locke was a cripple and Kate...well, Kate is a convict Hurley."

"Woah." Hurley blinked. "Dude."

"This whole Island could be a soap opera," Earl sighed, still smiling. He turned to Hurley. "Let me ask you something-do you want to be part of something important on this Island...something very important?"

"Why me?" Hurley asked, blinking and looking up at him.

"Because I understand you better then anyone else, Hurley. Because I was once almost exactly like you. I want to bring you into my inner circle...if you trust me. I need someone to help carry out my work and in exchange..people will respect you as I do. I promise that, Hurley."

Hurey stared at him. It was growing increasingly hard to concentrate. And more then anything, he wanted to be accepted and he really did believe in what Earl said. "Okay. That sounds...good."

Earl's smile widened and he clapped him on the shoulder. "Good man. There is still one person I don't know too well."

"Who?" Hurley asked.

Earl bit his lip. "Jack. I almost had him, Hurley. But then Locke stepped in. Jack is the only one who might be able to figure out my puzzle, Hurley. And that has me worried."

"So...what do we do?"

"First we'll go after his friends. Convince them that we're the best thing on this Island. Then, I'll talk to the good doctor again. It'll all work out, Hurley. It'll work out."

Earl pointed. "Sayid, right? That's your name?"

"Yes," Sayid replied, turning around.

Earl stuck out his hand. "My name's Earl." When Sayid didn't take it Earl coughed and withdrew his hand. "I"ve been looking for you. You're not an easy person to find."

Sayid turned away and started to walk. "I have heard what you are trying to do. Rest assured that I am not interested."

"Ah, but here's the beauty of it all-I can always offer people something."

"I told you, I'm not interested in politics."

"Really? That's a shocker, because you sure were interested in politics before."

Sayid turned to face him, and felt a wave of dizziness. "What? I don't understand-"

Earl shook his head. "Sayid. You once tortured and murdered dozens of people. Jack knows the truth

but what will happen if everyone else knows? Do you think they will trust you again? Do you think they will even *look* at you without fear?"

The dizziness increased. Sayid was sure he was going to pass out. He closed his eyes and struggled to speak. "How...how do you know this?"

"Help me, Sayid, and no one need ever know what type of person you are." Earl smiled as Sayid fell to his knees. Earl shook his head and turned away. "Easy as pie."

Sayid looked up. "The question is," he breathed, "What type of person are you?"

Earl's smile broke and white fury replaced his eyes. He turned back. "Why isn't it working on you? How-"

"I am nobody's slave!" Sayid shouted, and hurled himself at Earl. The two fell to the ground. In the process Sayid knocked something off him. He stared at the item in his hand. "Of course-it all makes sense now." Clenching his fist with the item in it, Sayid bolted into the forest.

Earl straightened and wiped the blood off his lip.

--------------------

A few minutes later he walked back into the caves, the same cocky smile dancing on his lips. Several people immediately offered him baskets of food. Earl waved them away. "Nah, that's all right."

"Anything we can do for you, Earl!" Boone exclaimed. "You just say the word. Do you want my sister? You can have my sister!"

Still chuckling, Earl made his way to the back of the caves and leaned casually against the wall. "Hello, Claire."

"Earl," Claire whispered, struggling to sit up. "I was wondering when you'd come by."

He bent down. "How's the baby doing?"

"It's okay," Claire said. "I was thinking of naming him after you, Earl." She blushed and looked down.

"Really?" Earl replied, raising an eyebrow. He shook his head. "Ain't that something." He sighed. "So here's the problem, Claire. I really hat kids. Not just a little, not just a lot, but with a passion. My ex-wife was a teacher you see, so I was around them a lot. I think you're sweet, Claire, but I don't much care for you either. I have plenty of woman to choose from, plenty of laborers for..my palace of sorts." Earl looked up. "I am sorry I have to do this. You know the ocean-the big, blue thing around this Island?"

Claire nodded. "Yeah!"

"I want you to go into it and no matter what happens, I want you to keep walking, sweetie. You think you can do that for me?"

Claire nodded. Earl smiled. He helped her stand up. "On your way, then."

----------------------

Sayid ran through the dark jungle, and didn't stop running until he bumped squarely into Jack. Both collapsed into the dirt.

Jack winced. "Sorry."

"My fault," Sayid said, helping him to stand. "I was looking for you. Where were you going?"

"The caves. Earl said he wanted to talk to me again about something-"

"No, Jack." Sayid sighed. "That is not a good idea. You see, I know who this Earl is, and I know exactly how he is doing things. Come with me." Quickly Sayid led him deeper into the jungle.

----------------------

It was almost nighttime. Charlie picked up a flower off of the grass and stared at it for a moment. He was standing on a cliff overlooking the ocean. He was hoping to find a present for Claire to welcome her into the cave dwellers. Maybe this would do. At least, it was better then nothing.

"I knew it wouldn't be so hard to figure you out, Charlie," Earl said from behind him.

Charlie turned around in surprise, tensing a little.

Earl pointed. "Driveshaft."

Charlie smiled.

"I knew you looked familiar," Earl explained with a small laugh.

"Come on-you must have heard that from someone else."

"No, it's true! Let's see-concert in Spain...fireworks at the beginning. I was there for that one. Do you mind if I walk with you?"

"No, not at all." Charlie stared. "That's an interesting flower you've got there. Sure as hell a lot more prettier then mine."

"Oh thanks-I"m a collector of sorts. Found this beauty right off the coast." Earl sighed and folded hs arms. "Tell me something Charlie-honestly, Jack doesn't think I should be in charge, does he?"

"Jack feels that way about everybody. I wouldn't take that personally."

"And what about you?"

Charlie paused. "I don't know," he said honestly.

"What if I could offer you anything, Charlie? Anything you wanted at all?"

Charlie stared at him for a moment, then looked away, a small smile on his lips. He started to walk. "No offense, Earl, but unless you've got a hamburger in your pocket there isn't-"

"I'm not talking about material goods, Charlie-things you crave and desire, I mean. I'm talking about things you would give anything for, including your soul."

Charlie looked away, a little disturbed. "There isn't anything like that I want, Earl."

"You used to be a druggie, right? I know, because I'm one too. You have all the signs, Charlie." Earl stepped down the path towards him. "Would you like a bit, Charlie? I don't have much, but I managed to save a little."

He opened up a small bag with heroin within it. Charlie stared. He couldn't help it.

"A little...never hurt anyone, Charlie," Earl continued.

Charlie's hand strayed self-consciously towards the bag. Then he snatched it away. "N-n-n-no thanks, Earl. I'm clean now...and maybe you should be too."

"I don't need a druggie to start giving me advice, Charlie. Besides, I quit ages ago. My choice. In the end, heroin couldn't help me. We're all defined by our choices, Charlie, and since you've made yours...." Earl tossed the bag over the cliff into the ocean below. "Now you see it, now it's gone."

Deeply disturbed, Charlie turned his head back to Earl. "I should get...into the caves."

Earl smiled and looked down, his hands in his pockets. "I'm sorry. I just have this theory that people believe in me a little more if they sell their souls to me first. It's a belief, anyway. At any event, the outcome is the same." He moved past Charlie and looked at the ocean. "We've been talking what- two, three minutes? Long enough for it to really get into your system."

"What?" Charlie demanded. "What are you-" He suddenly felt a wave of dizziness and bent down to his knees. He cried out in pain. His head was pounding horribly.

"By the way, your flower, that was meant for Claire, wasn't it? She won't need it where she's going, Charlie. Which is a one-way ticket into the ocean. It's nothing personal. Just can't stand to be around pregnant woman."

Charlie looked up at him in astonishment.

Earl was still smiling. "You're probably wanting to...kick my ass, or something. Instead you're going to-"

A thud.

"Collapse right where you are." Still smiling, Earl shook his head. "Yeah." With a chuckle Earl turned to where the unconscious Charlie was. "Charlie? Come on. Time to wake up and smell the coffee."

Safely hidden in the trees Locke watched the entire exchange, a small frown dancing on his lips.

--------------------

It was now nighttime, and Jack sat huddled near a small fire in the jungle next to Sayid. Sayid had

explained everything to Jack and was disappointed to see the reaction. "You don't believe me," Sayid stated.

"I'm sorry, Sayid. I don't trust Earl. But what you're proposing...it sounds just a little farfetched to believe."

"Perhaps. Perhaps not. He tried to use his methods on me and the only reason that I survived is because I know his techniques. I know because I have used them myself on other prisoners." Sayid took out a plastic sealed container. "This is what he has been using."

Jack stared. Inside the container was a purple flower that was full in bloom. "What is it?"

"I don't know. I've studied all types of species of flora, and I have never seen this kind before. I believe that this is what this man has been using to hold sway over the others." Sayid sighed. "Nevertheless, we have to be convinced without a doubt that this is the cause." He looked up. "Do you trust me, Jack?"

"Yes," Jack replied after a second.

"Good," Sayid said, and opened the container. He kept it open only for a few seconds, long enough for Jack to stare at it. Then Sayid pronounced, "It's raining," and snapped the lid closed.

Jack blinked and rubbed his stubble. "We might have to take this conversation indoors."

"Why is that, Jack?" Sayid asked.

Jack favored him with a are-you-kidding look. "Because it's raining."

"No, it's not," Sayid said. "It is a clear night."

Jack blinked and looked up at the storm-like weather that was drenching his body and his clothes. "Sayid, my clothes-"

"Are completely dry," Sayid said. "I only told you it was raining."

Jack blinked in astonishment. "Inhaling the pollen seems to make anyone believe what Earl is telling them."

"Think about it," Sayid invited. "Are there any moments when Earl was close to you and you felt like agreeing with whatever he said?"

Jack thought back. "The meeting. Earl was pretty close to both me and Charlie. Afterwards Kate said I was acting weird. Disagreeing with what I said before. The pollen did that to me?"

"And longer exposure seems to make anyone a virtual slave. And Jack-it is not a good idea to go to the caves. They are populated with Earl's followers. Or perhaps I should say, worshipers."

Jack sighed.

"Fortunately, I was able to procure this." Sayid lifted a leather-bound book and handed it to Jack.

"What is it?"

"Earl's diary. I have not yet had a chance to read it."

Jack looked up. "How did you get this?"

"So long as everyone believes that you are under the flower's spell, you can go anywhere," Sayid explained with a small shrug.

Jack turned the pages.

"Let's see what kind of a man Mr. Earl is."

--------------------

The wind blowing through her blond hair, Claire walked down the beach straight towards the ocean.

-------------------

Jack read quickly with the aid of the fire. "He was...going to commit suicide. He had nothing left-his wife had just left him and he was facing murder charges. He wanted to see his parents one more time before he killed himself."

"And the plane crashed and brought him here," Sayid finished. "A man who has nothing to lose. And there's more," Sayid looked up. "He knows a disturbingly amount of things about us. Things he couldn't possibly know. Things I have never told anyone in my life before."

"What are you saying?" Jack asked.

Sayid sighed. "Look. This is going to sound crazy, but there are periods of my life during the last week that I can't even remember."

"We just survived a plane crash."

"I know. But this...this is different. I'm not talking about shock. Is it the same for you, Jack?"

Jack thought about it. Hard. It wasn't easy to pinpoint, but..."Are you saying that Earl was getting us to tell him our secrets? Why not convert us right there and then?"

"Perhaps it's a game for him. Knowing more about us then we have told others."

"He's right," Locke said, suddenly approaching from behind them. "And we've got a big problem. Earl sent Claire off to drown herself."

"What?" Sayid said. Jack stood.

Locke stared at them helplessly. "I couldn't find her. She may have gone to the beach first, and then-"

Jack didn't need to hear anymore. He took off to the beach at a run.

----------------------

The beach was completely empty, something which Jack considered odd but he had no time to think about. He scanned the oceans. "CLAIRE!" he screamed but he couldn't find her. A minute later he spotted her. She was halfway into the water. He took off after her.

Jack grabbed her arm. The waves crashed around both of them. "Claire, we have to go back!"

"Get off me!" she shouted.

"Listen to me!" Jack snapped. "Earl's got you under some type of hypnotic suggestion. He's-" Claire's fist smacked against the side of his head. Even though the blow did no damage, it did pull him off-balance. The crashing wave did the rest and Jack was pulled under.

Jack struggled to find footing again and stand when two hands clamped on his shoulders, forcing him down. Jack thrashed and struggled, but it was no use. The hands were like claws. Above the water Claire held him down, her lips etched in a sneer. Jack had run out of oxygen and strength. Red blossomed in front of his eyes.

Suddenly the pressure around Jack's shoulders were released, but Jack had no more strength left in him to move. Not even to go up to the surface.

A large hand clamped down on the back of his neck and pulled him up above the water. Jack sputtered, coughed, and took in a large breath of air.

"Are you all right?" Locke asked in concern.

Jack closed his eyes, feeling movement tingle back into his limbs. He nodded, and Locke let him go. Jack opened his eyes and saw the unconscious Claire in Sayid's arms. "You didn't...you didn't hit her.."

Sayid shook his head. "Pressure points!" he shouted above the noise. "Let's get out of here!"

Jack thought that was a very good idea. --------------------------

They were back hiding in the jungle next to the fire. Jack had a queer doubling sensation as he felt rain dripping down against his arms. Jack glanced at Sayid.

"This time, it is really raining," Sayid confirmed. "The weather travels fast tonight."

"How is she?" Jack asked.

"She will be all right," Sayid replied, studying the sleeping Claire. "The pollen that Earl is using is powerful. Powerful enough for this woman to risk her child. If she wakes up, she will try to harm herself again." He looked at Jack. "We will have to tie her up."

"Why did Earl do this?" Jack wondered.

"Because Earl doesn't like kids," Locke replied.

Jack stood."We have to tell everyone-"

"Jack, there isn't anyone left," Locke said, stopping him. "As far as I can tell, he has only one or two people left. Then it's everyone except us."

"But what does he want?" Sayid asked. "What was the purpose of the meeting? There are easier ways to become a leader-that can't be what he's really after."

Jack and Locke's eyes met. Silent understanding passed between them.

"What? What am I missing?" Sayid demanded.

Locke folded his arms. "Son, if you've seen any movies about this type of thing, you'd know what most insane people stranded on an Island eventually end up doing. Or should I say, trying to be."

"And what is that?" Sayid asked, still confused.

"A God, Sayid," Jack explained. "He wants to be a God."

-------------------------

The next morning Kate awoke on the beach and immediately knew that something was wrong. The beach was mostly empty, but there was one or two people walking around, carrying beams of wood. Kate ran and caught up with Charlie, who was holding a basket. "Charlie?"

Charlie turned. "Oh. Hi Kate." His voice was distracted.

"What's going on?"

"I dunno-construction for the caves, I think. I wouldn't worry about that..um, Kate."

Kate stared at the basket. "What's that?"

Charlie grinned. "It's a gift basket. I made it for Earl."

"Charlie-that's all our food?"

"Do you think it's not enough?" Charlie asked, panicking.

Kate folded her arms. "Are you feeling all right, Charlie?"

"Yeah. I mean, why wouldn't I be?"

"Everyone's just acting a little strange. Fond of Earl, for example. Also I can't find Jack, Sayid or Locke anywhere."

Charlie shook his head. "You can never find Locke anywhere, Kate."

"But when I ask it's like..people are drugged."

Charlie's smile resurfaced. "Kate, I think you're just a little bit confused. You should talk to Earl. He can help you out. He...fills a void." With that, Charlie walked away.

"Ch-Charlie!" Kate called out. She shook her head. "Great."

"Hello, Kate," Earl said from behind her.

Kate turned, more then a little startled. "Earl. If you're looking for Charlie, he's-"

"I know where he's going," Earl replied. "I came here to see you Kate...and I'm sorry that it took so long. But you know what they say-save the best for last."

"What are you talking about?" Kate demanded as Earl approached closer.

"Have you ever had a dream, Kate? A wondrous dream that could have never come true? It has, for me. And I'd like others to share in that dream."

"Seems like everyone else already has."

Earl smiled. "They have a part, Kate, but they're not my equal. Not like you." He touched the back of her arm. "You're strong, Kate. And I know that you don't want to leave this Island. I eman, what's out there for you, Kate? Besides persecution? Besides...being alone?"

Kate closed her eyes.

"So why not share this Island with me?"

"Earl..." Kate began.

Earl stepped closer. "Yes?"

Kate opened her eyes. The next instant her fist connected with his jaw. Earl fell to the sand with a grunt.

Kate's hands were on her hips."How about no?" Brushing away a lock of brown hair, Kate walked away.

Earl grinned and touched his jaw. There was always one in a crowd that was immune. He stood, and watched her go. No matter. That just made things all the more fun.

---------------------

Claire's screams might have been a lot worse had she not been gagged.

"Listen to me!" Sayid implored. "You would destroy your life? The life of your baby? For this man?"

"You're wasting your time," Locke said. "And chances are she's going to attract every person on this Island." Locke raised his eyebrow. "Jack?"

Jack was stroking the last embers of the fire with a sigh. He sighed. "Agreed."

Sayid nodded, and turned back to Claire. "I am sorry." He touched two spots gently on her neck. Claire slumped forwards. Sayid balanced her gently against the tree.

"How long?" Locke asked.

"A few hours," Sayid replied. "We need a plan."

"Count me in," Kate said from behind them.

All three turned in surprise. "Kate!" Jack explained. "You're not..are you.."

"No," Kate said. "I heard you out here, but thankfully I think I was the only one."

Sayid nodded. "One more. Good. We have to stop Earl."

"We have another problem we need to deal with first."

Sayid blinked. "Another problem?"

"I didn't notice it until I was leaving the beach. The bonfire's out."

"What!?" Locke exclaimed.

"Earl doesn't want us to leave. And if a search plane does come, they'll miss us." Jack stood and grabbed a water bottle. "The first thing we've gotta do is get that fire working."

"It's dangerous," Sayid said.

"That's why I'm going by myself," Jack replied.

"Jack, let me come with you," Kate demanded.

Jack shook his head. "No Kate. If something does happen to me, the rest of you will have to come up with a plan." Jack turned to go.

"Jack," Locke said, stopping him. "A word of advice. If you see Earl, run. That's all you can do."

Jack nodded.

-----------------------------------

The beach was empty as Jack ran to the bonfire. Thankfully, it had only been doused and not

dismantled, otherwise this would have made Jack's job more harder. With a flick of a lighter he lit a stick of wood, about to throw it in the fire.

Charlie suddenly appeared as Jack looked up from lighting the torch. "What are you doing?" Charlie asked.

Jack took a deep breath.

------------------

Sayid was waiting by himself for Locke and Kate to come back, which was good. He wanted privacy while talking with Claire. "If I remove your gag, will you promise not to scream?"

Claire stared at him.

Sayid hesitated, and moved his hands to her mouth. "I do not wish to argue. I only want to know how you are feeling."

Claire smiled gently. "It doesn't matter how I feel, Sayid. I should have died, and you shouldn't have stopped me!"

Sayid sighed. "This cannot go on. The damage you are doing to your baby is already very great." He turned to the fire. "Are you hungry?"

Claire didn't reply. Sayid leaned back against the log. "All right then. Why are you in love with this man?"

"Earl's like..." Claire smiled. "Well, he's like the sun. You wake up every morning and you feel his radiance...his warmth. He's more then just a man, Sayid. A lot more. I can't expect you to understand."

Sayid looked down. "I understand belief," he said. "But this Earl is not who you think he is. He is poisoning you all with a type of flora. I could use it on you, for example, and you couldn't tell the difference between me and Earl."

"No, that's not true," Claire replied. "He cares about all of us."

"Care just enough to order you to die."

Claire hesitated. "Sometimes, sacrifices have to be made, Sayid. I understand that. I understand that in his heart, Earl will love me."

Sayid stared at her.

----------------------

For a moment Jack and Charlie stood facing opposite of each other with the unlit bonfire between them, the torch burning rapidly in Jack's hand.

"Charlie-"

"Jack, you do *not* want to light that fire," Charlie said.

"Yeah? Why not, Charlie? Because Earl doesn't want me to?"

"I don't know what you're going on about," Charlie. Said.

Jack held up his hand. "All right-just listen for a sec, Charlie. You and everyone else have a toxin in your blood, brought on by these flowers. Now it's making you and everyone else worship this guy! You have to believe me!"

Charlie stared. "You're jealous!" he exclaimed.

"What?" Jack demanded.

"You desire so much to be in charge of this Island but you choked at the meeting, right? So now you're trying to sabotage anyone else who tries!"

"Would you listen to yourself?" Jack snapped, his temper breaking. "Charlie, Earl tried to send Claire into the ocean to die!"

*That* made Charlie blink. "Tried?"

"Yeah. Thankfully me, Locke and Sayid were there. We stopped her."

"So...where is she now?" Charlie asked slowly.

"In the jungle. She's okay. Charlie...I've got to light this bonfire before a plane misses us."

Charlie folded his arms, looking deeply upset. "Earl is not going to be happy about this. That she's alive I mean."

That made Jack freeze. "What?"

"She has to kill herself, Jack! It's what Earl wants!" Charlie looked up at him. "I think you had better leave, Jack. You're not welcome here anymore."

Jack raised his eyebrow. "And what happens if I choose to stay, Charlie?"

The sound of metal scraping against wood. "Then that would be very unfortunate, wouldn't it?" Sawyer said, grinning and carrying a machete. Boone approached behind him, starring at Jack with hate. "At least, for you."

Twelve more people joined them, all carrying weapons. Jack stared.

"I don't know about the rest of you, but it seems mighty rude of the doctor to be ruining Earl's plans," Sawyer addressed the group.

"Maybe we should do something about it," Boone suggested. Jack was being driven closer towards the ocean.

"Something permanent," Shannon added.

"Now hold on!" Jack snapped. "I know all of you people! You're not savages! Can't you see that Earl's controlling you?"

Charlie stepped forwards. "Jack, we don't want to hurt you."

"Speak for yourself," Sawyer muttered.

"But we will, if you can't see reason," Charlie added.

"Reason?" Jack reported. "You call this reason?" Suddenly Jack winced and looked down at his hand which held the rapidly-burning torch.

"Jack!" Charlie stepped forwards.

A mistake. Jack smashed the burning stick against Charlie's chest. Charlie fell. Jack took off at a run.

"Come on!" Boone shouted. A split second later everyone followed. Jack ran fast though, and soon left

everyone behind.

Everyone except Sawyer, who soon caught up and tackled Jack. Both fell to the sand.

Sawyer turned Jack over. "You have no idea how long I have been wanting to do this," he said. He punched Jack in the face, giving him a bloodied lip. Sawyer stood and kicked Jack in the side. Jack felt something crack and cried out.

"Yep, revenge sure is sweet," Sawyer continued as Jack struggled to his feet.

"Sawyer, listen to me, please!" Jack shouted. "Earl's enslaved you! Since when did you ever do anything for anybody?"

"Please. This is my one chance to be accepted, Jack! Do you think I'm going to let you ruin it for me?"

"Is that what he has over you? Being accepted?"

"Shut up! And just...just fight."

Jack shook his head. "I don't want to do that, Sawyer."

"Well, then, that will certainly make my job a lot easier." Sawyer looked up as he heard shouting. The others were soon approaching. Looking to his right he saw that Jack had resumed running. Laughing, Sawyer soon followed.

-----------------------

"I found us some food," Locke said an hour later to Sayid. "Since it seems like we're going to be stuck

here indefinitely. How are things on your end?"

Sayid nodded. "We are making some progress, and-" He stopped when he heard the bushes rustle. He and Kate stood.

Jack emerged, bruised and bleeding. He was holding his arm and limping.

"Jack!" Kate exclaimed, and moved towards him.

Jack waved her away. "I'm okay, Kate." Still Kate helped him to sit down on a log.

"No, you're not," Kate said. "I'll see if there's a medical kit around."

'What happened?" Locke demanded.

"Couldn't get the bonfire lit, and I ran into some people while trying. They chased me all the way into the jungle, but I lost them."

"That explains it," Sayid said.

Jack looked up. "What?"

"I went back to the caves to see what they were doing," Kate said. "That's why I didn't run into anybody. They were all too busy chasing you."

"And what...are they doing?"

"They are currently converting the inner caves into a throne room," Sayid replied.

"I'm sorry this happened to you, Jack."

It was Claire who spoke. All four looked up.

"But it wouldn't have happened if you believed in Earl," Claire added.

"We don't believe in him, Claire. So where does that leave us?" Jack asked.

Claire didn't reply. Jack sighed. "We better try and go back...."

"No," Kate interrupted, lifting Jack's shirt off despite his half-hearted protests. "First you're going to rest tonight. There's nothing we can do for now. We'll try something in the morning."

------------------

It was several hours into the evening. A bandaged Jack was sleeping along with Kate right beside him. Locke was sleeping while sitting up against a tree. The only people awake were Sayid and Claire.

"You don't have to guard me," Claire said. "I'm not going to run away." She looked at her ropes. "I can't, anyway."

"I am not guarding you, Claire. I was just considering something, because I finally think I have this Earl figured out. The reason why he is able to affect us all so much is because he feeds off our despair. And offers us empty promises, perhaps? Hope of us leaving, or perhaps for some...a more personal guarantee."

Claire said nothing.

"What did he offer you, Claire?"

"I don't know what you're talking about," Claire replied.

"Oh yes you do. I know because I remember his words in my mind. He offered me...forgiveness for my past. After I had done things that no one could forgive. Jack knows what they are. He understands them, but he couldn't forgive them. I thought it wasn't even possible...until I talked with Earl. And...in that moment, he offered me everything I had dreamed for, and more...and I believed him. Almost, at any rate."

"So why didn't you?" Claire asked him, intrigued in spite of herself.

"Because I knew it was a lie. Because in that moment, I had also forgiven myself...and that could never happen. Not without some spell cast over me." Sayid looked up at her. "It might be a terrible way to live, but it's my way to live. Now your turn. What did he offer you?"

Claire said nothing but looked away.

"Perhaps I can guess," Sayid said, standing and walking towards her. "Protection for your child, perhaps? Protection for yourself? The assurance that you will never be alone?"

Claire looked down, tears forming in her eyes.

"Claire...you are not alone. All of us care about you. Especially Jack. Especially Charlie. But you have to wake up from the spell. You have to remember who you are. For the sake of your child."

Claire burst into tears.

Sayid gripped her tightly. "You are not alone," he repeated in a whisper.

---------------------

"I think we've got a problem," Charlie said to Earl the next morning. It was a clear day free of the rain, but there was still a bitter wind. Most people had resumed construction. They needed to be finished by tonight.

"What is it?" Earl asked Charlie.

"Well...it's Kate. She doesn't believe in you Earl...not like we do, at any rate."

Earl said nothing for a moment, thoughtful. "And she's not the only one. Neither does Jack, Locke, or Sayid."

"So what do we do?"

Earl smiled. "Ever see the show survivor?"

"No, I don't think so."

"It's a reality show. At the end of each episode, a member would be banished from the tribe forever, never to come back. And that's what we're going to do."

"You mean we're going to banish Jack and the others?" Charlie echoed.

"Banish? Nah, I was thinking more along the lines of killing them. I don't like loose ends."

"Kill them!? Isn't that a little...I dunno, extreme?"

Earl shook his head. "Not really."

"Oh..kay," Charlie said, bewildered but trusting in Earl to know what was right. He headed down the path.

-------------------------

The next morning Claire ate ravenously. Jack suspected that she had not eaten for some time. The five of them were huddled around the burning fire. "All right, this is where we're at," Jack began. "We're the only people still not under the effects of the pollen. Everyone else is under Earl's influence including Hurley, Charlie, and Sawyer."

"Not good odds," Locke remarked.

"At the meeting Charlie and I went under almost by being in immediate contact with Earl, which means it's definitely a pollen. Now this works out because the effects should wear off within twenty- four hours of being deprived of whatever Earl is using."

"When was the last time you spoke with Earl, Jack?" Locke asked.

"A day and a half ago," Jack muttered.

"And what do you think of him being a leader?" Kate asked.

"Well, one of us has to be a leader, Kate, so why not-" Jack stopped himself in mid-sentence.

Locke looked up at Jack in astonishment.

Jack looked down. "All right. We've gotta find a way to neutralize the poison. But first I want to see if we can shake its hold on some more people. It worked for Claire. It might work for others. Locke, I want you to work on Charlie. Kate-"

"Sawyer," she said quietly. "I'll see if I can do something with Sawyer."

Jack slowly nodded. "All right. Be careful. I'll work on Hurley. Claire, I want you to stay here. I want us all to meet back here in three hours, come success or failure." Jack looked up. "Good luck, everyone."

-----------------

A few minutes later Kate strolled to the beach. Sawyer was there by himself, fishing once again. Sawyer smiled as she approached behind him. "How's the good doctor doing this morning?"

"He's fine. No thanks to you," Kate replied.

"So you're back." Sawyer glanced briefly at her. "Does this mean you're finally going to take communion?"

Kate shook her head. "No."

"I should turn you in," Sawyer said.

"So why don't you?" Kate asked.

"Well, I don't fancy having to lend a mark on you to do it. Besides, you know it's hopeless. Either you accept Earl into your way of thinking, or you'll find life on this here Island a lot harder."

"It must be so easy."

When she didn't add anything further. Sawyer frowned a little. "What?"

"Giving in. Quitting. I used to think you were interesting, Sawyer. The fact that you didn't need anybody in your life. But now I see that you're no different then anybody else."

"Sawyer favored her with another grin. "Are you trying to mess with my head, girl?"

"Then why are you doing this?" Kate asked.

Sawyer frowned, and the hands that were holding the fishing pole were trembling. "Because I can't help it, Kate," he whispered. He turned his head a little. "Help me. Please."

-----------------

Charlie walked by himself in the humid jungle. He didn't know quite what he was doing. It was all so fuzzy. Then he remembered. He was trying to find Jack and Kate. Find them...and take care of them.

"I'm disappointed in you, Charlie," Locke said from behind him, cutting branches off a tree. "Very disappointed."

Charlie turned in surprise, and moved towards him. "What are you going on about?"

"I thought you were serious about going off heroin." Locke shrugged. "I guess I was wrong."

"Locke, I don't know what you're talking about, but I haven't touched any drugs since I quit. You saw me burn the rest in the fire! I'm clean!"

"But now you've found something as good, haven't you Charlie?" Locke asked, looking at him.

Charlie swallowed. "Now I really don't know what you're talking about." He turned away. "I've gotta go."

"Why, so you can warn everyone else that I'm here? Isn't that what drug addicts do first, Charlie? Sell out their friends?"

Charlie took off into the jungle like a deer. He moved fast, but Locke knew more about the terrain then anyone else. He headed Charlie off just as he reached the stream and crashed into him. Both tumbled into the water. For a moment they struggled blindly and then Locke had Charlie in an arm-hold.

"Listen to me!" Locke spat. "Earl's got you and everyone else under a drug!"

"Sod off!" Charlie screamed.

"Charlie! Look at how you're acting! We're standing in a stream screaming our heads off! Tell me, how many types of drugs make you do that?"

"I'm not under any drugs, Locke!" Charlie cried out in pain when Locke accidently twisted his arm.

"No. You're just delusional," Locke snapped, and released him. His face was etched with disgust. "All right then. Go. Prove me right and the fact that you can't stay away from an addiction."

For a long moment both of them stood there, Charlie starring at Locke. In the back of his mind Locke heard the stream going past them peacefully.

Charlie finally stepped forwards. "I'm...I'm clean, Locke," he repeated slowly.

"Are you?" Locke asked with a raised eyebrow.

Charlie looked away, puzzled.

"What did he offer you, anyway? Earl?" Locke persisted.

Charlie said nothing for a moment. "He offered for me to see Liam again." He was shaking a little. "He said he was going to find a way home."

Locke looked down. "It's not going to happen, son. Not by him."

Another moment of silence, but this time Locke knew that Charlie wasn't going to run away.

Charlie looked around, as though for the first time. "I'm not under the drug again."

"No. You're not."

"So what's happening to me?"

"It's something that Earl is using. Everyone is under its effects, Charlie. Not just you. Intense emotion seems to be the way to snap out of it."

"How many people are..." Charlie closed his eyes. "...are normal?"

"You, and me. Sayid, Jack, Claire, and Kate."

"Bloody hell," Charlie whispered. He rubbed his hand against his forehead.

"What do you remember?"

"Very little since the meeting." He sighed. "This is powerful stuff, Locke."

"I know." Locke gestured. "Come on."

"Wait. I *do* remember something," Charlie said. "Something about tonight. It's important."

I ...what are you doing?"

"I'm basking in the glow of Earl," Hurley replied.

"Oh. Well, listen-"

"Can't. Basking."

"Would you just let me talk!?"

Hurley blinked and looked up at him.

Jack stared at him. "You have to know that this guy isn't the answer. He isn't going to find the way home."

"I don't want to go home. Everything I need is right here."

Jack blinked. "Do you really believe that?" he asked, honestly curious.

"Well, maybe except a chocolate bar. But yeah, this place is good, you know? People don't mock me. Call me fat. They're all too worried about...surviving and stuff."

"Hurley, your weight isn't an issue," Jack said. "Not here or anywhere else. If people can't realize that it's a problem on their end, not yours."

Hurley looked up at Jack. "Really?"

"And you're smart enough to realize that," Jack continued.

Hurley said nothing for a moment. "Yeah...I guess. What do you want me to do?"

Jack breathed a sigh of relief, glad that was so easy. He turned, thinking. "Well, now that we have enough people I think we can-"

Hurley didn't listen. He looked at the ground and spied an old but thick piece of wood. He lifted it.

"...and then we should.." Jack said before he felt the back of his head explode. With a surprised grunt

Jack was already unconscious before he hit the ground.

Hurley was holding the wood that was now smeared with blood. "Heads up," he said.

---------------------

Sayid looked up as Kate approached. "Any luck?" he asked anxiously.

"Yeah. I might have gotten through to him," Kate said.

The bushes rustled, and Locke and Charlie stepped through. Both were sprouting bruises and lumps. "Got through to him," Locke would only say.

Charlie's eyes widened as he bent down. "Claire! Are you hurt? How's the baby?"

"It's doing all right, Charlie," Claire said.

Charlie shook his head. "Listen, Claire...I'm sorry for what I did...I mean, what I felt....I mean, well, I'm not sure what was happening-"

"It's okay," Claire said, her eyes brimming with tears. She gave him a smile. "I know it wasn't you."

"It is not anybody's fault," Sayid remarked. "Save for one."

"Where's Jack?" Locke asked.

Sayid shook his head. "He is overdue."

"Well, he knew better the importance of being on time," Locke said.

They waited a few more minutes in silence, without any result.

"Jack should have been here by now," Kate finally said, grabbing her bag. "I'm going after him."

"That is very dangerous, Kate," Sayid remarked.

"I have to try."

"You can count me in," a voice said behind them. They turned and saw Sawyer, smiling his usual cocky smile. Kate raised her eyebrow, but Sawyer didn't say anything more.

Charlie nodded. "Yeah. Count me in too...if..you're okay, Claire." He stood. "I've got a score to settle with this guy."

"You and me both, son," Locke agreed. "Jack said he would talk with Hurley. We'll make for the beach and try and track him from there. Now Charlie said that there's some kind of celebration for Earl tonight. Most of his people will be on the beach. That will give you two an edge to take this guy out."

Sayid shrugged. "How?"

Charlie was beaming. "Locke and I were talking about it on the way here. We're going to stir up another hornet's nest. While we're keeping everybody busy-"

"Me and Kate will take the guy out," Sawyer finished. "Is that right?"

"It's a good plan. Earl's got...some kind of attraction for me." Kate said, and a grimace of distance touched her features. "We'll be okay."

"I should go with you," Sayid said, already starting to stand.

"No, someone's got to look after Claire," Charlie said. "We'll be...um, we'll be all right. A few dozen mad crazy people. Nothing to worry about at all."

"All right, good luck everybody," Locke said.

-----------------------

It was fast approaching nighttime.

Music could be heard pounding on the speakers on the beach, and several bonfires were lit. Charlie

and Locke were watching from a safe distance. Charlie straightened in astonishment. "I recognize that music. That's me! That's Driveshaft! Where did they get my CD? And how are they playing music in the first place!?"

"Charlie, get down!" Locke snapped, pulling at his arm.

"But...I want a copy," Charlie said. Reluctantly he sat down and stared at Locke. "Well, they've got the bonfire going again. That's something."

"Probably only for tonight. Still, it might work to our advantage." Locke stared at the people dancing and eating. "I don't see Earl. He might have gotten held up."

---------------------------

Earl was grinning from ear to ear as the unconscious and bound Jack was slowly carried by Hurley and

two other men. "Well, finally. We've found the rotten apple."

Hurley dropped Jack quite ungraciously on the cave floor.

Island. The day before his wife had divorced him, taking the kids with her. He quit the job in disgust. He had almost killed himself on a bridge. Instead he bought a ticket to...well, anywhere. Then the plane crashed, which didn't help. The man was small and skinny, and not able to contribute much in terms of labor. Not too many people would even talk with him or even look at him and he felt utterly alone and useless.

That is, until he talked with Earl.

If he had overhead Charlie's conversation with Kate, he would agree. Earl does fill a void that makes you utterly happy. After talking with the guy you would believe anything. That's why Newman had spent days since then making Earl a present. A token of his appreciation. He had hand-carved, not very well, a living idol of the guy and placed it far behind them on the beach. Several people agreed that it was certainly life-like, and he could only hope and pray that Earl would like it too. If he did, then Newman's life would be literally complete. For the moment people were dancing from the music, eating assorted trays of fish someone called Sawyer caught. Earl was still in the caves, but he would be out shortly. To lead the people.

Newman couldn't wait. He was completely oblivious to know that two individuals were now hidden behind the said idol.

-------------------------

"We need a plan," Charlie whispered.

"There's no time. We've gotta draw them somehow towards us," Locke said.

"Well...fire would probably do the trick," Charlie remarked. He edged closer to the bonfire.

"Charlie...wait." Locke frowned. "That's Driveshaft!?"

"Yeah," Charlie said defensively.

"I haven't heard this song before. They sound terrible!"

"Well, you know, the acoustics on the beach...look, it was our final year, all right?" Charlie snapped, ignoring Locke's small smile.

"Come on," Locke said. "Let's stir up that hornet's nest."

The two of them grabbed two sticks from the bonfire. "Meet you back at the camp," Locke said.

"If we survive that long," Charlie agreed. They turned to the assembled crowd. "HEY!"

People turned around.

They waved their torches. "TWO UNBELIEVERS RIGHT HERE!" Charlie shouted against the noise. To add to the effect, he burned the horrible fake idol of Earl right beside him. It erupted into flame.

"YOU WANT US YOU'RE GOING TO HAVE TO CATCH US!" Locke roared.

"SO COME ON!" Charlie goaded.

The effect was immediate. People ran towards them, a lot of them carrying weapons.

"Good luck, Charlie," Locke muttered, before he and Charlie both ran into the jungle in different directions.

Only one person didn't run after them. Newman fell to the sand, starring at the idol. "Oh no....nooooo!"

--------------------------

From the top of the cliffs Kate and Sawyer watched the beach clear out. Kate stood out of the bushes, shouldering her backpack. "Come on. Let's go."

----------------------

Jack woke up to the feeling of water dripping over his face. He opened his eyes and found that he was

laying face-first next to the cave wall. He straightened himself into a sitting position, his eyes focusing.

Right away he noticed that there were flowers. Dozens of them that Earl used. All around him. Turning his head he saw that Earl was sitting on a crude wooden throne, watching him. "Wakey wakey, doctor," Earl said. "I have a lot of things to do tonight and I don't want to waste it all with you."

Jack's eyes went again to the flowers. Earl followed his gaze. "I figure that you've got about two minutes before the pollen enters your system. Time enough for a little chit-chat between us," Earl said.

"Well, in case I don't ever get a chance to say this again, you are one evil son of a bitch, Earl. Especially for what you did to Claire."

"Evil? No. I just...really love this Island, Jack. Is that so hard to understand?" Earl shook his head, smiling. "I knew that you would be the last ones to be converted. That you would figure me out."

Jack looked up. "Pretending to be a God? It's fairly easy to understand. Especially considering that you were planning to commit suicide."

"Oh, I was wondering where my diary went. I'll thank you to tell me where to find it. You know, when you're groveling before me, Jack."

"Look," Jack began. "I know what you've lost-"

"You don't know anything!" Earl snapped, his temper breaking. He looked down. "Yeah, I lost everything that mattered to me. Marie...left me. For good. I lost my very high-paying job. I didn't kill anyone, believe it or not. But my reputation was in shambles. It was all Earl this and Earl that."

"It might have helped your reputation if you hadn't run away," Jack pointed out.

Earl smiled a little. "Well, you know the courts. They're controlled by what the media tells them. I overheard Sayid once saying that the fact that we survived was destined. I do believe that, Jack. This is all part of my...destiny. As are all of you."

"You can't use people as slaves, Earl."

"I can. I have."

"So what was the purpose of the meeting?" Jack demanded. "What happened to free choice?"

"I never cared about their opinions, Jack! I just wanted to test the range of my little friend here." Earl lifted the flower. "Amazing isn't it? I haven't seen anything like it anywhere else, and I've studied them, you know. But then, you found a polar bear. I wonder what else we'll find on my strange Island! Obviously, the pollen didn't work on all of you at once. No matter. One person at a time works too."

"People can break away from it easily enough," Jack snapped.

"If there's someone around to lead them out of it," Earl pointed out. "I spared you because I wanted a doctor in my world, but everyone else-Locke, Charlie, Sayid-I don't need them. I'll kill them before they do to much damage, or rather, my people will kill them." Earl grinned. "You'll kill them, Jack."

Jack coughed once. He shook slightly.

"That would be the pollen kicking in," Earl said. He stood. "I'm really a simple guy, Jack. This is my last chance. And I'm going to take it."

"Earl," Jack struggled to talk. "Someone will find us here. Then what'll happen?"

"Please. Tribes have lived out their entire lives without being disturbed. But you better hope that no one finds us here, Jack. My people love me so much that they will fight to the death for me. As you well know. And if they know they can't win...they'll turn on themselves."

The room was rapidly swimming all around Jack.

"It works a whole lot better if people truly believe that they aren't going to be rescued, or if they lead very depressing lives with nothing better in sight. That's why it worked on Hurley so well. That, and I used small words," Earl added. "You know, ones that someone of his intellect could easily understand."

Anger flared in Jack, enough for it to snap out of it to make one last remark. "You won't get away with this, Earl." Suddenly the dizziness clouded his vision, and the last thought before he passed out was thinking how much he hated this guy.

---------------------

Charlie watched as people with flaming torches ran past him. He silently congratulated himself for thinking of hiding in the trees. Locke would be proud of him. All he had to do was wait a few hours, and then he could make good his escape.

Hurley was right underneath him. At that moment the worst possible thing could have happened. Charlie sneezed.

Hurley jerked his head. "There you are. Get down here!"

"Um....no. I'm quite comfortable here," Charlie said, shrugging.

"Look, I promise not to kill you!" Hurley said, crossing his fingers behind his back.

Charlie grinned. "Sorry. You're going to have to climb up to get me."

Hurley swore. He spied a pebble on the ground and grabbed it. He hurled it at Charlie, which bounced off his forehead. "Ow!" Charlie automatically grabbed his forehead and lost his balance. He fell. "Sodding hell..."

----------------

Kate walked by herself into the cave. Earl had clearly changed the place. Wooden beams now supported the cave, and Earl sat on a crude throne. "Hello, Kate," he said. "I knew you'd come."

Kate didn't reply. She immediately spotted Jack lying against the far wall. "Jack!" she cradled his head in her lap. "Jack?"

Jack's eyes flicked open. "Kate," he whispered. He gripped her wrist.

"Are you all right?"

"Listen...to Earl...Kate," Jack said, and his eyes closed. She couldn't get him to wake up.

"You should listen to the man, Kate," Earl said, his face beaming. "You should reconsider my offer."

Kate didn't reply. Jack's pulse was weak but strong. She stood onto her feet, brushing dirt off her pants. She stared at Earl. "Life with you...doesn't sound all that appealing. You're scum, Earl."

Earl laughed and looked down. "Well, you may be immune to my flowers but I was hoping that you're not immune to my charm. I can be a real gentleman at heart. For you." He stood. "Think about it? What's waiting for you beyond this Island, Kate? Besides prosecution?" He looked down. "Besides...punishment."

"I want to go back, Earl," Kate snapped. "I can't expect you of all people to understand."

"Try me."

"I want to prove my innocence."

Earl stared at her. "You can't stand the thoughts of others thinking that you're guilty, can you? Not on this Island. Not anywhere else. You're really that...vulnerable." Earl stepped closer until he was almost touching her. "You know, I'm a convict too. Just two...innocent convicts trapped in this cave, on this Island." Earl laughed a little. "Quite the coincidence." He touched her hair. "I can keep you safe, Kate."

Kate fought the compulsion to shiver with disgust. Her eyes flicked up to him. "So that's the deal, then? I would serve under you?"

"Not serve me, Kate. Rule beside me. Rule all these people." Earl was breathing hard. "But maybe during the nights, yes, serve under me..."

Kate gripped his wrist and flipped him with one motion. While he lay stunned on the ground her boot connected with his throat. "You disgust me, Earl. If I was ever going to be guilty of a crime it would be killing you!"

"Kate..." Jack struggled to his feet. "No...don't do it.."

Kate stared at him. "You're under the pollen, Jack."

"No, Kate. This is *me* talking," Jack implored, stepping forwards. "Don't do this."

Kate hesitated.

Earl gripping her foot and pulled. She fell heavily to the ground. Earl landed on top of her, chuckling. "Pity. Well, if you won't do this willingly...some things you have to just do the old fashioned way." He grabbed her shoulder.

Kate cried out. Above them Jack blinked, suddenly dizzy. He hit his forehead with his wrist and blinked several times. His vision was clearing. As he looked down he noticed, for the first time, Kate was under Earl and he was wrestling with her clothes. "Kate!" he cried out and reached forwards.

"Allow me," Sawyer said, who was closer. He grabbed Earl by the hair and yanked him backwards. Earl cried out in agony. Sawyer stood in front of Kate protectively as Kate stood, her eyes burning. Seeing the three of them, Earl ran out of the cave.

Jack stopped Sawyer before he could run off. "No, let me," he said. He ran after Earl. The two of them ran into the darkness for several minutes before Jack caught up with him. He grabbed Earl by the shoulder and punched him right in the face. Earl rebounded against the tree and fell.

Jack grinned and wiped his forehead. That felt good.

-----------------------

"Come on, get your fists up!" Hurley roared as Charlie stood.

"And then what?"

"Then...I'm going to punch your lights out, that's what!"

Charlie frowned. "Really?"

"Yeah...I guess. So come on, let's go!"

Charlie raised his fists, and lowered them. "Are you sure you know how to do this?"

"Come on!"

"Look, how many times have you even been in a fistfight?"

"What, you don't think I can take you?" Now Hurley was insulted.

"Well, no offense, but I am...faster."

"Hey, my weight is an advantage here!"

"Oh. All right," Charlie said, lowering his bag to the ground. He frowned. "How?"

"Like this." Hurley ran screaming right into Charlie like a battering ram. The air was knocked out of Charlie and he rebounded against the tree. Hurley picked him up by his shirt, his fist raised.

"No, wait, it's me!" Charlie cried out.

Hurley stopped in mid-punch, blinking several times.

Breathing hard, Charlie waited anxiously.

"Woah. Sorry dude. I don't know what I was doing."

"Obviously!" Charlie said. "And you're...you're normal now?"

"Yeah. What happened!?"

"Charlie!" Locke called from behind them. "Jack just sent a message. They've got Earl tied up. We're trying to get everyone else to snap out of it and it seems to be working."

"How?" Charlie asked.

Locke gestured at the wind. "The fresh air is helping!"

Charlie grinned. "Come on!" he said to Hurley.

"Woah, wait," Hurley gripped his shoulder. "What's been happening?"

Charlie didn't lose his smile. "Nothing. Everything's finally starting to turn back to normal." -----------------------

The debates ranged long into the night.

They had set up a bonfire and burned all the flowers they could find. But that was just the beginning. Charlie and Jack spent hours arguing with each other while the rest stood around silently. Finally, dawn approached.

Sawyer walked by himself out of the beach settlement, and spent fifteen minutes of walking until he reached where Earl was tied up next to a tree. As soon as Earl spotted him he made a desperate dive for the flowers still clutched in his hand. For him to try that again...Sawyer shook his head. "Nice bunch of flowers you have, but...I'm not that type of guy. Besides, the doc said that those infected cannot and will not be infected again. Still smiling, he glanced at Earl, who was very clearly beat up. "Let me guess....Locke?"

Earl shook his head. "Charlie."

"Ah." Sawyer turned to face him. "Can't say that you didn't have it coming, Earl."

"Guess I missed the meeting, huh?"

"Oh, there was a meeting. About you. Every single thirty-nine survivors had their say."

"And now you're here to do the dirty wok." Earl looked up. "Is that right?"

"No, Earl. Sadly, I'm just a messenger. You see, there was one person who spoke in favor of you. The rest just wanted to butcher you on the spot. Three guesses who defended you from them."

Earl looked down. "Jack."

Sawyer's smile resurfaced. "Frankly, the doctor's we-are-not-barbarians speech gets a little tiresome. Unfortunately, *that* was the one that prevailed."

Earl closed his eyes and released a breath.

Sawyer stepped forwards, suddenly angry. "Don't think that Jack is doing this for you."

"Funny. You defending him."

Sawyer didn't reply to that.

Earl shrugged. "So what happens to me now?"

Sawyer grinned and took out his knife. Earl immediately cringed. Sawyer turned around the tree and untied Earl's ropes. "You leave. Pick a direction. Live in the jungle. When and if we're rescued, you won't even be mentioned. As far as everyone else is concerned, there were only thirty- nine survivors from the crash. If you ever, and I do mean ever come back-"

"I know," Earl moved to leave, and stopped. "You could come with me, you know."

Sawyer raised his eyebrow.

Earl shrugged. "We're not different. You and I. We both have nothing to return to, nothing waiting for us. The world hates us both."

Sawyer hesitated. "You're right. But there is one difference between us, and that difference is the reason why I'm staying here."

Earl stared at him.

"I'm not an idiot," Sawyer said, and stood. He waved. "Adios."

----------------------

A few hours later Charlie approached Claire. "Hey," he greeted with a smile.

"Hey," she returned.

"I ah...got something for you," Charlie said, and took something out of his bag. It was a flower. "For you, miss."

"It's not...Charlie, it's not...."

"Don't worry. This is a perfectly ordinary, lovely flower which I thought goes rather nicely in your hair." Charlie grinned.

With a giggle Claire took it.

"Of course, if it was one of Earl's variety...well, then, that means you'd do anything I said, right?" Charlie said. "I mean, you'd do all the cooking and the cleaning-"

Still giggling, Claire punched him in the shoulder.

"It's nice to see everything returning to normal," Jack mentioned, watching them. He and Kate were carrying several jugs of water for the people on the beach.

"It is," Kate agreed. "So you'll head over to the caves, afterwards?"

Jack was about to reply, and hesitated. He saw Hurley standing by himself. "Hey, I'll be right back." He joined Hurley, who was silent for a moment.

"I can't believe what I did," Hurley remarked. He looked up at Jack. "Sorry about the-" He gestured to the head.

"No, it's okay," Jack said. "I'm just...glad you're back."

"I fell for it so easily..." Hurley said.

"We all did."

"Yeah, but you snapped out of it right away. So did Charlie. Locke and Sayid....they weren't affected at all. You know why?"

"No. Why?"

"Because you guys are strong. I'm just...I dunno, weak."

Jack stared at him in astonishment. "Hurley, I snapped out of it because I saw that Kate was in trouble. You snapped out of it because you didn't want to hurt Charlie. You're not weak."

"Oh really? Then why...why did I believe it so much...?" Hurley wondered.

"Earl offered a lot of stuff...he couldn't give. We all wanted to believe that. But he couldn't." Jack smiled. "Come on. Meet you for a round of golf?"

"You're just offering to make me feel better," Hurley said.

Jack shrugged. "Well, if you don't think you can win-"

"Hell, of course I can." Hurley brushed past him, smiling. "Let's go."

By the next half-hour, everyone had joined in for a golf tournament. Even Locke, whom Charlie had convinced was a 'hunter's game.' As they played Jack looked around and smiled briefly in satisfaction.

They were a community again.

THE END.