A Murder Most Foul: The Life of a Hitman

Chapter 26: THEN: HIT LADY

Chapter 26: THEN: HIT LADY
In this chapter, Notch, Sec, and Walter watch a TV movie called "Hit Lady," featuring a beautiful actress, Yvette Mimieux, playing a hitwoman. They find the movie amusing and unrealistic, as the Mimieux's attractiveness and attention-grabbing outfits make her an unlikely assassin. They joke about the movie's portrayal of a hitwoman and discuss the importance of blending in and not being noticeable in their line of work. The chapter ends with Notch reflecting on his future and the challenges of being a gun for hire.

Chapter 25: THEN: ALL IN THE FAMILY

Chapter 25: THEN: ALL IN THE FAMILY
In this chapter,  Notch receives a significant contract from the Mafia, marking a pivotal moment in his career. The job involves taking out the owner of a construction company during the grand opening of a shopping mall in Chicago. He meticulously plans the hit, choosing a long-distance shot from a building under construction. Despite the challenges posed by the windy city, he successfully executes the hit with a single shot, sending a clear message to his clients. This chapter highlights the Notch's growing reputation and the complexities of working with organized crime.

CHAPTER 24. THEN: NEW DIGS

Chapter 24: THEN: NEW DIGS
In this chapter, Notch finds himself in a new environment after a period of uncertainty and wandering. He is taken in by Sec, who provides him with a temporary place to stay and introduces him to a new way of operating. Notch learns about the intricacies of his new life, including the importance of never disposing of a target and always working through trusted cleaners. He also meets Walther, an armorer who can provide any weapon needed. The chapter highlights Notch’s struggle to adapt to his new life and the challenges he faces in maintaining professionalism while dealing with the emotional aftermath of his past.

CHAPTER 23. THEN: 1973, LIKE A COMPLETE UNKNOWN

Chapter 23: THEN: 1973, LIKE A COMPLETE UNKNOWN
In this chapter, Notch reflects on the tumultuous period following the disbandment of their team. Feeling lost and directionless, he wanders aimlessly, engaging in self-destructive behaviors such as drinking, fighting, and whoring. Eventually, he reaches out to a contact named Sec, who was part of Sarge's team in Korea. Sec helps the Notch transition into the civilian side of their work, setting up as a private contractor. He also meets Walther, an armorer who can provide any weapon needed. The chapter highlights Notch’s struggle to adapt to their new life and the challenges he faces in maintaining his professionalism while dealing with the emotional aftermath of his past.

CHAPTER 22. NOW: SUNDAY, THE SEVENTH: THE FINAL APPROACH

Chapter 22.  NOW: SUNDAY, THE SEVENTH: THE FINAL APPROACH
Notch is on the brink of a high-stakes mission, preparing for a pivotal moment on Monday night. As he contemplates the gravity of his actions and the potential consequences, he is haunted by thoughts of Gabriella, the woman he loves. The chapter explores themes of love, guilt, and the hope for redemption, all set against the backdrop of a dangerous and complex operation. Join us as we unravel Notch’s inner turmoil and the choices that will shape his future.

CHAPTER 21. THEN- 1973 DEATH AND TRANSFIGURATION

Chapter 21 - Then- 1973 DEATH AND TRANSFIGURATION
Notch’s world is turned upside down on January 22, 1973, when Sarge, the leader of their team, announces the disbandment of their unit. The revelation of Sarge's involvement in high-profile assassinations, including the one in Dallas, shocks the team. As they grapple with the implications of their past actions and the sudden end of their operations, Notch is forced to confront his own identity and future. This chapter explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption, set against the backdrop of political intrigue and moral complexity. Join us as we unravel the complexities of the Notch's journey and the choices that will define his path forward.

Chapter 20. NOW- SATURDAY, THE SIXTH: IN MY OWN WRITE

Chapter 20. NOW- SATURDAY, THE SIXTH: IN MY OWN WRITE
In this episode, Notch finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating his past actions and the consequences they have wrought. As he prepares for a pivotal moment on Monday night, he is haunted by thoughts of Gabriella, the woman he loves, and the possibility of redemption. The chapter explores themes of love, guilt, and the hope for a fresh start, all set against the backdrop of a high-stakes mission. Join us as we unravel the complexities of the protagonist's mind and the choices that will shape his future.

CHAPTER 19. THEN: I WANT TO BE IN AMERICA (CANADA)

Chapter 19. Then: I Want to be in America (Canada)
Chapter 19 describes Notch’s arrival in Seattle, Washington on October 11, 1971, marking the end of his Vietnam adventure. He is met by Sarge and Richard at the airport, and they drive to Sarge's compound in Canada. The chapter details the logistics of being based in Canada, including the importance of moving across the border with little attention.  Notch is given a Canadian passport and is tasked with learning about Bouillon, Belgium, as well as the importance of having matching identification and passports. The chapter concludes with Notch and his team settling into their new home and beginning their training under Sarge's guidance.

CHAPTER 18. NOW- FRIDAY, THE FIFTH: CHEERS THEN

NOW- FRIDAY, THE FIFTH: CHEERS THEN
In this gripping episode, we delve into the tense and dangerous world of professional hitmen. Join us as we follow the Notch's encounter with Walther, a seasoned gunsmith, who opens the door with a 357 Magnum in hand. The atmosphere is thick with the smell of metal, gunpowder, and cleaning fluid, contrasting with the Norman Rockwell painting-like front room. As they share a bottle of Blantons whisky, the conversation reveals the harsh realities of their profession, the risks they face, and the meticulous preparations for their assignments. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the life of a hitman, exploring themes of loyalty, survival, and the constant threat of danger. Don't miss this thrilling journey into the dark underbelly of contract killing.

CHAPTER 17. THEN: CAPTAIN JAMES T. (OR ‘R’) KIRK

Chapter 17. THEN: CAPTAIN JAMES T. (OR ‘R’) KIRK
 
In Chapter 17, Notch reflects on his feelings of loneliness and isolation after returning from Tan Son Nhut Airbase. He contemplates his life as a professional killer and decides to visit Sarge upon his return to the United States. After getting his bandages removed, he visits the Ba Thien Hau temple for contemplation and then goes to the Dhiem Ai Bakery to inform Xuan about Allan's death. Despite initial resistance from Xuan's uncle, he manages to speak with Xuan and tells her about Allan's love for her and his desire to marry her. Xuan reveals that she is learning English and wants to name their child after Allan. He struggles with thoughts of Allan, Xuan, and Gabriella, and the melancholy of his situation. The chapter ends with the Notch preparing to leave Vietnam and return to civilian life, feeling a sense of duty and the weight of his experiences.