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Monday - September 13

"Good. Claire... Claire, I... I have to stay overnight. I can't tell you why, but something has happened. I don't know how long I'll be here, but just make sure you lock down tight tonight, and call me before you go to bed. Will you do that for me, Claire? Claire?" I ask, waiting anxiously for her response.

"What's wrong, John? I know you can't divulge anything specific, but will we be all right?" Claire replies with worrisome in her voice.

"Everything is fine," I assure her. "Just remember to call before you go to bed. I love you, Claire. I have to go. Remember... call me." I hang up on her.

Claire sets her phone down on the table. She wonders if she should have told me about the events that have happened in her day. She's glad she didn't. But Claire wonders what she should do about the key and its possible connection with the folder. Since both of these items have something to do with the number twenty-eight, she decides to investigate further.

Claire removes the key from the box and checks for an inscription. Thoroughly eyeing both sides, she sees that there's nothing inscribed. Then she notices on the keys top edge an etching of a symbol. She goes to her computer and scans the top edge. When completed, she enlarges the picture. The picture is a symbol of an upside down cross with the letter U on top of it. Not being an expert on symbolism, Claire decides to get on the Internet in hopes to find some answers.

Opening a search browser, Claire types in "symbols". Scrolling down through many available websites, she sees the symbol that the key has in a mediums advert. She clicks the link, and in black bold print is the exact same symbol as the key. Claire's eyes widen as she reads the name underneath it. "Neptune!" she exclaims.

Curious, Claire begins to read the website. It tells about mystical readings, and how one can tap into their spiritual powers that have been lost throughout time. Deeply engrossed with what she's reading, Claire sees a link to chat. With her finger nervously hesitating to click the link, she eventually does, and a chat box appears with the name of Danielle appearing.

Beginning to get second thoughts, Claire decides to close out the web page, but instead, a message appears.

Hello. My name is Danielle. How can I assist you on your journey today?

Not knowing to whom she is chatting with, Claire reluctantly replies to the message.

I was just curious as to what the symbol of the upside down cross with the letter U through it meant. Can you help me?

After a minute or two goes by, Claire receives a reply.

It is the symbol for the planet Neptune, as well as the symbol of Neptune, the Roman Sea god.

Not wanting to ask too many questions, Claire is unsure if she should continue with the chat.

Does it have anything to do with numbers?

Danielle replies:

Numbers?

Claire begins to feel like she's gone too far, but she hopes that maybe Danielle can give her some more insight.

Yes, numbers.

Danielle doesn't respond right away. Claire is now worried that she may have gone too far in asking too many questions. Wanting to close the page, Claire waits a few more seconds. Danielle finally responds.

Neptune is associated with the number seven. Does this help you?

Claire is stunned when she realizes that there are seven men in the picture. She now knows that there is a definite connection between the men in the photo and the key.