As dawn approached, Tim Jamieson headed south on Highway 77 toward Millinocket with the rescued children. Kalisha Benson, Luke Ellis, George, and Helen slept together in the back of the truck, exhausted, while Nicky Wilholm sat up front, appearing to doze.

Seeing two phone bars and a nine percent charge, Tim called Wendy. He confirmed he and Luke were alive and explained he had four additional children with him, but that many others had died at the Institute. He avoided details, citing safety and exhaustion, and said he could not use credit cards. The call broke up, and he ended it after telling Wendy he loved her.

Tim reflected on how distant DuPray felt compared to the urgent needs of protecting the children and anticipating pursuit. Nicky then spoke up, thanking Tim for helping Luke and coming into danger, and clarified he was not currently reading Tim’s mind.

Nicky explained his telekinetic and telepathic abilities were largely depleted unless he could link with the other children, in which case they might briefly amplify. He was unsure whether their powers would return to previous levels, noting that sports had mattered more to him than abilities.

Spotting Tim’s fatigue and lack of funds, Nicky suggested independent motels might take cash and hinted that he and the other children could likely help obtain money. He advised Tim to stop at the next town, then leaned back to rest as they continued south.