Eliot shook his head. "Nate, we've got a problem here."

Before the mastermind could respond, he heard fists hitting flesh.

The hitter grunted as the professionals attacked with surprising force.

He downed a dozen before he was overwhelmed. He was

held fast by two while the biggest beat him mercilessly.

By the third rib broken, Nate had formed a plan.

"No. They'll kill you. Le' me t-... take it. 'M fine."

Eventually the well-trained goons left him to die. The team

rushed in when it was safe. Eliot was wheezing, groaning.

His broken and bloody body writhed gingerly. He apologized breathlessly.