IV
The next week Stone returns to work to begin his investigation on Croft. He arrives at headquarters around eight am Monday morning and greets Hudson who is sitting at his desk adjacent to his own.
"When did you make it home the other day?" Hudson asks.
"About midnight." Stone replies as he thanks him again for his help.
Hudson then informs him that upon his return to headquarters he gave his briefing to Hayes and relayed Stone's request to initiate an investigation into Croft.
"We've already got a file started on Croft." Hudson says. "It's pretty bare thus far but we're digging. No criminal history found under the name A.J. Croft, of course we don't know what A.J. stands for and it certainly has to be an alias."
"It's not, did you search just the criminal files?" Stone asks.
"Criminal files, DMV you name it. Everything within the states of Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and Nevada." Hudson replies.
"What about Interpol?"
"Interpol, FBI and CIA. The FBI was the only agency that had any sort of response."
"Which was?" Stone asks.
"Classified."
"Hmm, what about the gunman we captured?"
"We've got him in a holding cell at Andrews, his name is Robert Trent. Ex-police swat team lieutenant from Fresno. He was fired from the force when he was caught stealing seized funds from the evidence room. He escaped arrest though for a short time but was finally caught and served two years for armed robbery." Hudson explains.
"Okay I want to see him today. In the meantime have Watts hack into the FBI mainframe to see what information he can de-classify on Croft."
"Understood, I'll get him on it ASAP."
"Okay well I have debriefing with Hayes so I'll see ya later." Stone adds. "Oh and Will, thanks for doing all the legwork on this."
"No problem."
Miles City, Montana – Three days earlier: the arms dealer with the engraved Zippo is parked in another minivan on the outskirts of town. He impatiently looks at his watch reading ten past eight. He puts on a pair of shades as the sun peeks over the mountains.
"Where is this guy?" he says aloud.
Just then his cell phone rings, he looks at the number on the screen realizing it is his overdue client.
"You're late, where the hell are you?" he says into the phone.
"I can't say but things have gone south, we have to reschedule." The caller says.
"That's not an option, I'll give you twenty minutes then I dump the cargo." Says the arms dealer.
"You can't do that, I'm not even in Montana."
"Shut your hole! No names, no locations remember." The dealer says stepping out of the van into the cool air. "What happened?"
"The Feds caught up to me, took out my team." Says the caller.
"Then this conversation is over, if they tagged you then meeting could get me compromised."
"Wait I need that cargo, we have to reschedule."
"And I need the other half of my money to cover my expenses but what am I supposed to do with a million dollars worth of equipment."
"C'mon just give me a week to take delivery." The caller adds.
"A week! That's unacceptable."
"I told you I ran into some problems."
"Not my problem, this is precisely why I require fifty percent up front. You don't take delivery and I dump the cargo and walk."
"Okay, okay. Give me four days, that's the best I can do. I've got to assemble another team first."
"Still not my problem." The dealer says now pacing up and down the side of the van. "Okay four days, on one condition. You pay me triple!"
The caller, while frustrated admits defeat and agrees to the terms.
"Okay deal."
"Wire the fifty percent of the original price to me immediately. Then bring the other two million with you when you take delivery." The dealer instructs.
"Understood, I'll contact you at this time tomorrow via email to setup a new rendezvous point." Says the caller.
"Alright, remember four days. You don't make it, I'm dumping the cargo!"
"You ordered Watts to what!?" Hayes says.
"Oh c'mon this isn't the first time we've hacked into a secure mainframe. Besides I need that Intel." Stone replies.
"You can't just let this one go? I mean you rescued Jason safe and sound, why can't it end there?" Hayes asks.
"If the Feds are after him he's got to be up to no good. Besides I'd like to be able to tell my cousin that I caught this guy. I couldn't face her if I just walked away from this one."
"I guess I can understand that; I don't know how you're so good at talking me into these things." Hayes adds.
Stone smiles then says. "Besides do you have a better assignment for me?"
"Well there has been a series of attacks on a French shipping line in Calais."
Stone's reaction shows his disinterest and remains steadfast in his intention to hunt down Croft.
"So." Stone hesitates for a moment. "Carry on?"
Hayes simply nods her head. "Keep me updated."
"Yes ma'am."
That afternoon Stone and Hudson drive out to Andrews Air Force Base to interrogate Robert Trent. In certain situations Omega Sector has, on more than one occasion, been able to secure witnesses, fugitives and other high profile detainees at Andrews AFB or other bases around the world. With the FBI withholding information on Croft, Hudson was able to have Trent secured on the base until further notice. If the FBI knew O.S. was digging into one of their cases and questioning one of Croft's accomplices they would likely attempt to have him pulled off the base. Personnel at Andrews were more than happy to comply when they learned that Trent and his friends opened fire on two Air Force search and rescue choppers resulting in a casualty.
They check in at the main gate where an MP escorts them to the brig.
"You'll need to check your firearms sirs." The MP says.
Stone and Hudson turn over their pistols then are led into an interrogation room to await Trent. A few moments later a different MP brings Trent in through the opposite door, he's shackled and wearing military prison issue clothing. The MP puts him in a chair opposite where Hudson is sitting at the table.
"I'll be right outside sirs." The MP says as he leaves the room shutting the door behind him.
Trent looks at Hudson whom he's not met before then recognizes Stone who is leaning up against the back wall.
Trent hesitates a moment before speaking as he tries to read what's on the men's minds.
"So, you think I'm just gonna spill my guts huh. Well blow me, I ain't saying a thing until I see a lawyer."
"Mr. Trent this isn't a police holding cell. I'm not sure if you've even figured it out yet but you are in a military brig and we're not the FBI. If you were in the custody of the bureau or the state police you'd be awaiting trial for a number of charges including assault, kidnapping, accessory to attempted murder, accessory to murder, possession of a legal weapon and firing that weapon on United States Air Force personnel and that's just the short list!" Hudson says.
"So you're keeping me here until I cooperate." Trent says.
"You know you're not as dumb as you look." Hudson replies.
"So what kind of deal are you offering?" Trent asks.
"Spoke too soon." Stone says walking over to the table. "You don't seem to get it, there's no deal. You help us or you'll stay here indefinitely."
"Also, just as easy as we can make you disappear, we can make your life here very miserable." Hudson says embellishing for effect.
"Besides are you really that tight with Croft that you believe he'll come after you. Or that he wouldn't rat on you to save his own skin?" Stone asks.
"Cooperate and if the information you give us leads to Croft's arrest and the prevention of whatever he's up to then we'll make sure you get your trial. Maybe there will even be a reduction in sentence in it for you." Hudson says.
"Maybe?"
"It all depends on what you can give us on Croft and its usefulness." Stone adds.
Trent takes a moment to decide then he exhales deeply. "Okay, what do you want to know?"
Stone eagerly sits down as Hudson pulls out his laptop. "Everything." They say in unison.
Stone and Hudson begin asking numerous questions regarding Croft and his background as well as how Trent fell into league with him.
"That's the only name he gave me and the others, I have no idea if Croft is his real name or not." Trent says. "I was brought on board through a friend of a friend but Croft never gave us the details of the job he was working. I do know that his immediate plans were to meet up with some arms dealer to take delivery of a package. After which I remember him saying we were to catch a plane near Williston, North Dakota. From that point on I have no idea what is on his agenda."
"Where in Williston, are we talking a commercial airport or private?" Hudson asks pulling up Williston on his computer.
"Private plane but he's not going to an airport at all, he's headed for some lake called Sakakawea. . . I think." Trent replies unsure of the pronunciation.
"It's a seaplane?" Stone asks.
"Yeah."
"Did you find it?" Stone asks looking at Hudson.
"Well the main body of the lake is far to the east of Williston but it does have an arm that stretches almost to Williston." Hudson replies. "Where on the lake is he meeting this seaplane?" he adds now speaking to Trent.
Trent looks over the map then finds the cove about ten miles west of a public campsite.
"Why is the FBI after Croft?" Stone asks.
"He's a mercenary for hire."
Stone and Hudson glance at each other realizing that can't be good news.
"Let's go back to this arms dealer, what can you tell us about him?" Stone asks.
"Well I don't know his real name, in fact neither does Croft but his screen name is the Talon." Trent replies.
"How did he contact this arms dealer online?" Hudson asks.
"I don't know the specific process but I overheard him saying he was given access to a criminal for hire website. Anyone who can access the site can go online and hire hitmen, arsonists, mercenaries . . . ."
Stone finishes Trent's sentence. "Arms dealers."
"Yeah."
"And this arms dealer's name is the Talon and is listed on this site?" Stone asks.
"Yes, oh I almost forgot. One day while Croft was contacting this guy online I saw the homepage of the dealer's own website and it had an insignia of a Falcon head with a crest in the background."
Stone thinks for a moment then suddenly comes to a realization.
"If Croft got in touch with this arms dealer on this secret website then is Croft listed on there as well?" he asks.
"Not sure, Croft works mainly by word of mouth and like I said he was given some special access to the site to purchase whatever equipment it is that he needs for his current job." Trent explains.
"When is he supposed to meet the arms dealer?" Hudson chimes in.
"This past Friday."
Stone curses under his breath at the disappointing news.
"However he's not supposed to meet the plane until tomorrow." Trent adds.
Both of the guys' eyes light up with anticipation at the new lead.
"Wait, wouldn't he change his travel plans now that there's some heat on him?" Stone asks. "Why would he risk not changing them knowing you were caught?"
"He doesn't." Hudson says.
"He doesn't?" Stone asks.
"I debriefed the men back at Warren before we left for home. When they scattered Trent was seen heading west downhill while Croft was heading east with Jason. Also Trent wasn't in our custody until after Croft made his escape."
"Oh, good deal." Stone says receiving a smile from his friend.
"There's also the package that he's buying from the arms dealer, once it's in his possession he was adamant about getting it out of the Rockies by air." Trent explains.
Stone and Hudson exchange looks again and agree that it is a good bet that Croft will make the rendezvous at Lake Sakakawea as planned. They ask a few final questions then prepare to leave.
"I think that'll do it for now, we'll be back in a couple of days." Stone says.
"If you think of anything else we need to know just inform the MP's and they'll know how to get in touch with us." Hudson adds.
"Is there anything you need? Cigarettes, gum, something to read?" Stone asks.
"Don't smoke, how about a bacon cheeseburger and a cold beer." Trent replies.
"We can't get you alcohol, how about a soda?"
"Sure. Root beer, ice cold."
"I'll see to it." Stone replies.
After making the arrangements with the MP's for the requested meal Stone and Hudson finally leave the base having been there for almost two hours.
"You think he was telling the truth?" Stone asks.
"Yeah, after he realized what his options were he seemed . . honest."
"Honest?"
"Well yeah, just cause he's a criminal doesn't mean he's incapable of telling the truth. I'm surprised you catered to his request." Hudson says.
"Well, that's all he'll be getting if his Intel turns out to be bogus." Stone adds.
Once they arrive back at headquarters Hudson gives Hayes an update while Stone checks on Watts' progress.
"Find anything yet?" he asks.
"I came up with a few hits on the initials but none of them were Croft." Watts replies.
"You sure?"
"Positive, none of them even resembled our guy."
"Weird." Stone says thinking.
"What is?" Watts replies.
"Croft seemed sure that the Feds were after him."
"Maybe he got wind that they're after someone with the same name and doesn't realize it." Watts suggests.
"Hmm, well anyway I have a new assignment for you."
Stone lays out the Intel Trent gave him about the criminal for hire website. He orders Watts to do his best to locate the site and find the arms dealer Trent mentioned.
"So we have a new target?" Watts asks.
"Yes and no, I fully intend to nail Croft but let's see what we can find out about this Talon. Depending on how big a player he is on the black market there's no telling how many other leads we can gain off him." Stone explains.
"I follow, the guy has got to have a supplier right?" Watts adds.
"Yup, Croft could just be the first in a long line of targets for us to set our sights on."
"Sounds like a good day once all those arrests are made." Watts says smiling.
"Heck with that, more like a good month!"
After giving Watts his new assignment Stone walks into Hayes' office to find Hudson still there giving their report.
"I hear you have a lead?" Hayes says gesturing for him to enter.
"Yes ma'am, with your permission I would like to take Shadow and a backup team out to North Dakota to intercept."
"Granted, when do you want to leave?"
"Tonight, Trent stated that Croft was planning to meet up with the seaplane at eight tomorrow morning." Stone replies.
"Okay, what do you need from me?" Hayes asks.
Stone spends the latter part of the afternoon organizing his mission strategy. He heads home to change clothes and pick up a few other things that he might need. While he's there he gives Robin a call to let her know what's going on.
"Wow, only a day back on the job and you're already headed out again?" She says.
"Well this might be our only chance to nail Croft, I've gotta take it."
"I understand, would you like me to tell Amberly and Jason?"
"No, no let's see what happens first." Stone replies.
"Okay, I love you but I won't say it because I know you don't like to hear it." Robin replies.
"I'll be careful . . . and I love you too." Stone says, his smile emanating through the phone.
Andrews Air Force Base – An hour later Stone meets up Shadow team and their assigned backup, team Kilo. One of the larger teams of Omega, team Kilo consists of ten men. While preflight inspections are made on the O.S. aircraft Stone, along with Hudson, spends that time briefing the two teams on their objective and strategy.
"We will stake out the area as soon as we arrive, the local police lake patrol has been informed of the situation and will standby to back us up however we see fit. Our Intel suggests our primary suspect will meet with a seaplane in this cove sometime around oh eight hundred. However we have no idea what if any other assets the target may have at his disposal tomorrow, so we'll be utilizing the lake patrol to that end." Stone explains pointing out spots on the map displayed on the screen behind him. "Two of our agents will accompany each patrol boat. Shadow and the remainder of Kilo team will remain in concealment on land until the target arrives."
"Remember that the primary suspect is to be taken alive at all cost. It's possible that his connections could lead us to a series of very big players in the black market. We already know he's been in contact with one arms dealer." Hudson adds. "If we capture Croft maybe we can home in on the arms dealer, then the supplier and so forth."
"Even though we'll be in radio contact, due your individual assignments I've assigned a mission launch codeword so that there are no mistakes." Stone says.
"Mission launch codeword is Campfire." Hudson chimes in.
"Any questions?" Stone asks.
Stone takes a few questions then receives a call from the ground crew that their plane is ready for takeoff.
Williston, North Dakota – Shadow and company touch down at Sloulin Field just before five am. Stone is the first to step off the plane once parked in a private hanger, as he makes his way down the steps he spots a male police officer probably in his fifties approach him.
"Agent Stone I presume?" says the man wearing the Williston P.D. badge.
"That's correct."
"I'm Sheriff Rayf Johnston, Williston Police Department." The man says extending his hand somewhat reluctantly. "The Mayor has informed me to provide any assistance you might need while in town and that I'm to escort you to Lake Sakakawea. She also advised me to have at least three of my patrol boats prepped and ready for deployment along the western arm of the lake."
Based off his demeanor, Stone quickly sizes up the man assuming that he's not keen on having his men and resources commandeered by unknown federal agents. Although he also gets the sense that the Sheriff knows his place and isn't a man to disobey orders.
"That's correct." Stone says shaking his hand. "Thank you for your cooperation Sheriff, we'll do our best to have this operation wrapped up as soon as possible. Hopefully we'll be out of your hair well before dinner time."
"That would be fine." Johnston replies.
"Have you arranged for our transportation as requested?" Stone asks.
"In that hangar." Johnston points out the structure to where the plane was directed to stop at. "Two unmarked vans fully fueled."
"Very good, where are your men?"
"With the boats, as soon as you and your men load up I'll take you to the lake." Johnston replies.
Within minutes the two teams pile into the vans and follow the Sheriff leading the way in his cruiser. Johnston leads them to the lake patrol station where they find three other officers waiting near the boathouse. Johnston introduces Stone to his men and vice versa then gives Stone the floor to brief the officers. Once done he orders the six men from Kilo team to man their assigned boats with the officers. He also advises Johnston to pull out any units within a five-mile radius of the cove where Croft is to meet with the plane. Once everyone is clear about their assignments Stone and the ground team pile back into the vans and head for the cove just as the boats are launched.
The ground team arrives first and after finding no sign of Croft or any plane they quickly disperse and set up a perimeter around the cove. Two members of Kilo team quickly stash the vans out of sight and the rejoin the rest of the group. Meanwhile the three patrol boats take their positions under the cover of camo nets and over hanging foliage near the shore. Two of the boats take positions on the south side of the lake opposite the cove while the third waits on the north end just west of the cove itself. As the ground team scatters to take their positions within the wooded area Stone and Hudson take position at the top of a nearby hill overlooking the cove.
"There are campsites located east of here along the north side of this arm but this area seems pretty deserted aside from a few dirt roads and that old boat dock." Hudson says checking his map.
"This is the right cove though and that dock stretches far enough into the lake for a seaplane to pull up to." Stone replies.
"Are you sure we brought enough men?" Hudson asks.
"We're fine, even with Shadow one man short."
"I can't believe you left Watts back at headquarters."
"He's got his own assignment, if he can find that website Trent mentioned maybe we can get a lock on the Talon. Besides even without Kyle we're at eighteen including the lake patrol officers. Nineteen with Sheriff Johnston back at the boathouse to coordinate our efforts if this goes south." Stone explains. "How many men can be meeting Croft, four or five at the most."
"I suppose, are the boats in position yet?" Hudson asks changing the subject slightly.
"Lake teams come in, are you in position?" Stone says in his radio as he looks through his binoculars.
All three boats report in that they are in position and Stone is just barely able to make one out through his binoculars.
"Copy that, boat two I've spotted you through my binoculars. Do what you can to better conceal yourself." Stone replies.
"I guess all we can do now is wait." Hudson adds.
Shortly after eight am a dark red twin prop seaplane descends over the lake on approach to land.
"Okay people look alive we've got the plane inbound for the cove." Stone says over the radio.
Stone keeps his eyes glued to the aircraft hoping its crew doesn't spot the patrol boats. A few moments later it lands on the lake and comes to a stop at a ninety-degree angle to the dock.
"It's not very often you see pontoons on a Beechcraft 18 is it." Hudson whispers.
Stone watches through his binoculars as the copilot and a passenger exit the plane and tie it up to the dock just as the engines shut down.
"Do you think they saw the boats?" Hudson asks.
"No, they're covered besides if they spotted them they wouldn't have landed." Stone states.
Twenty minutes later a dark sedan appears on the dirt road leading towards the dock.
"Leader this is Drake, I've got a clear view from my angle and this is definitely Croft!"
"Is he alone?"
Negative, there are three others in the car with him." Drake replies.
"Okay standby to move in."
Before giving the order to move in Stone watches as Croft and his new entourage exit the sedan. Croft walks onto the dock but doesn't immediately board the plane; he stops halfway as the copilot greets him.
"What is he waiting for?" Stone whispers to Hudson.
He continues watching as Croft talks to the copilot, at the same time Stone notices the other three men that arrived with Croft have also not boarded the plane as well. Realizing he's about to lose their chance Stone is about to give the mission launch codeword but stops as Croft walks back to the car. He starts up the car and drives east parallel to the lake leaving the other three men to wait with the plane. Unbeknownst to Croft he drives right by the hill where Stone and Hudson remain in prone position overlooking the situation. Stone turns around still prone and watches Croft through his binoculars as the car stops some sixty or seventy yards away in a small clearing. Croft shuts off the engine and remains in the car.
"What is going on?" Hudson whispers.
"I have no idea." Stone says as he presses down the transmit button on his radio. "All units this is Stone, we have the target on site but something else is going on. Keep your positions and wait for confirmation to initiate."
A few minutes later an unmarked white cargo van appears from the east; the van circles around and parks in front of the sedan
Stone repeats his order to hold positions informing the team that a new player has entered the target area. He continues to watch Croft intently through the binoculars as both Croft and the unknown player emerge from their vehicles and walk towards each other.
"Can I trouble you for a light?" Croft asks the driver.
The driver pulls out his lighter with the engraved falcon crest on it. Croft not being a smoker simply examines the lighter and nods.
"The Talon I presume?"
The Talon nods and says. "You've been quite enough trouble for me already this week. Let's get this done."
Croft walks around to the trunk of the sedan and removes a black travel bag. Having already paid the original million via two separate electronic transfers to the Talon, Croft opens the bag revealing the remaining two-thirds in cash.
"Two million dollars, as promised." Croft says holding onto the bag. "Now let me see the weapon."
Satisfied with the bag's contents the Talon leads Croft around to the back of the cargo van. He opens the rear door of the van revealing a long dark green metal case with German writing on it. Croft steps into the back of the van and opens the case to inspect its contents
"That's the arms dealer!" Stone exclaims as he watches the exchange take place.
"What is he doing here, Trent said Croft was supposed to meet him back on Friday." Hudson says.
"I dunno, Croft must have been forced to reschedule. We were so close to catching him in Colorado he probably decided to lie low for a few days." Stone replies.
"Let's move in!" Hudson suggests.
"Yup. " Stone replies. "Anderson do you copy?"
"I read you sir."
"We've got the arms dealer in play, since Hudson and I are nearest we'll go after him. Since we know Croft will be heading for the plane I want you and your team to go after him. All other teams keep your original assignments, neutralize the ground targets and if possible keep that plane from taking off, especially with Croft." Stone orders.
"Copy that." Anderson replies.
"Okay mission is a go. Campfire, I repeat campfire!"
As the teams move in to seize the men guarding the plane the boats emerge from their cover and head for the dock.
"We've got trouble!" Says one of the passengers from the plane as he spots the incoming boats. "Toss me a rifle."
Another gunmen emerges from the door of the plane and tosses his comrade a model 58 Cetme. The gunman takes a knee on the dock and opens fire on one of the incoming boats from the south.
"Hit the deck!" says one of the Kilo team agents as the onslaught of bullets begins hitting the hull of the boat.
Just then Croft hears the gunshots and realizes his plane is under attack but before he can react he feels the barrel of a gun pressed against his forehead!
"You led me right into an ambush!" The Talon says.
Before Croft can say anything the Talon snatches the travel bag from him containing his two million in cash. "Where are the keys to your car?"
"In the ignition." Croft replies.
The Talon looks over Croft's shoulder and notices the two federal agents approaching. He tosses the van keys over his shoulder then hops in the sedan and speeds off.
Stone and Hudson run to the clearing having seen the Talon spot them approaching. As the sedan peels out heading back east Stone takes aim with his M4 and fires hitting one of the rear tires. The Talon keeps his foot pressed to the floor keeping the momentum even after he feels the tire blow out. Stone takes aim again this time hitting the other rear tire. Moments later the car comes to a stop some fifty yards from the clearing.
Croft immediately goes for the van keys once no longer at gunpoint. For a brief moment he begins to wonder why the Talon didn't just kill him. However he puts that thought out of his mind as he spots the two federal officers approaching. He jumps in the van and starts the ignition; realizing that the dock is also being surrounded he decides he'll have to regroup with the plane elsewhere. As he makes a one hundred and eighty degree turn he spots another group of federal officers heading his way. He completes the u-turn then heads east just as the original two agents approach the van. He gets a good look at one of them suddenly realizes one of them is the hiker he kidnapped back in Colorado. Frustratingly curious how this man continues to turn up like a bad penny, Croft's mind remains on escape. As he gains speed he approaches his sedan just as the Talon is exiting the vehicle. Croft floors the van aiming to hit the arms dealer but the Talon dives clear of the van rolling on impact along the ground. He stands up and opens fire on the van as it passes then takes off on foot as he spots the federal agents still approaching. Croft immediately grabs his cell phone and calls the pilot of the Beechcraft.
"Take off and meet me six miles east of your position, there's another dock at a campsite there." Croft says.
Meanwhile Drake and his team engage the men guarding the plane. Croft's entourage open fire at the federal agents approaching on foot. Two of them are taken down almost immediately just as a few more step out of the plane and begin to open fire with assorted automatic weapons. While the firefight ensues the pilot starts up the engines just as he receives the call from Croft.
"Watch your fire, we don't want to hit that engine." Drake says firing his M14.
As the first two patrol boats continue to take fire from the Cetme armed perpetrator the third comes into view from the west. The mercenary rises to his feet and sets his sights on the new target but before he can fire a bullet rips through his right shoulder! Drake lowers his M14 having fired the round and watches as the impact of the bullet forces the mercenary to keel over. The Kilo team agents aboard the boat see the riflemen go down as they approach the dock. However the rifleman stands up somewhat wobbly and pulls out a Glock. As the boat slows to a stop a few yards away from the dock the Kilo agents aboard take aim and fire sending the riflemen into the water.
"Stone this is Anderson, Croft got away in that white van, he's headed east along the dirt road.
"Send the patrol boats east down the lake, I'm betting Croft will try to rendezvous with the plane at another dock." Stone says.
"But the plane is still at the dock." Anderson replies just as he and his team cross paths with Stone and Hudson.
"Not for long, they just got the engines going." Says Drake over the radio.
"Can you hold them?" Stone asks.
"I don't think so, the boats have arrived but two of them are riddled with bullet holes." Drake replies ducking behind a tree from oncoming fire.
"Do what you can and keep us updated." Stone says into the radio then looks at Anderson. "Gage get your team back to the vans and go after Croft. In the meantime contact Sheriff Johnston and tell him to get some choppers out here, we may need eyes in the sky."
"Williston doesn't have a local police helicopter on their force." Anderson replies.
"Then tell him to commandeer a private chopper back at Sloulin Field." Stone says as he and Hudson pick up their pace again and to follow the Talon. "Get moving!"
A few minutes after separating with Anderson and his unit Stone and Hudson stop for a moment to try and pick up the Talon's trail.
"You see him?" Stone asks with his M4 raised.
"No but I don't hear any footsteps so he must have stopped." Hudson replies.
"He's close then."
Hudson rises slightly from his crouched position for a better look and almost immediately hears a gunshot whiz passed him!
"Holy crap!" Hudson says dropping back into a deep crouch.
"He's sighted us." Stone says.
"Ya think!?" Hudson says slightly agitated.
Stone remains calm and slyly grins as he says. "Hey you're the one who stuck your head out." Stone goes prone and peeks around a small boulder just as another shot rings out near their position. "Man that was close, is Drake still occupied or can he and his team come help us?"
"Doesn't matter, this guy will make a run for it before Drake could get here. He knows we have more assets in the area." Hudson replies.
"Crap." Stone says frustrated. "Hey, you gotta flash grenade?"
Back at the cove Drake and his team have successfully taken out all of Croft's entourage plus a few men from the plane crew. Within moments only the pilot and two others are left, the pilot increases the throttle and pulls away from the dock gaining speed. A few moments later it ascends to an altitude of twenty feet and heads east to rendezvous with Croft. Meanwhile Croft enters the public campsite that is only sporadically populated. He brings the van to a screeching halt then backs up towards the smaller yet sufficiently sized dock. Croft exits the vehicle and opens the back doors he's ready to load his cargo as soon as the plane arrives. Within moments he hears the report of the plane and watches the campsite for signs of the federal agents' continued pursuit. The pilot lands the plane and brings her to a stop at the dock.
"C'mon we need to get this loaded quick!" Croft yells to one of his associates as they lower the hatch. The mercenary runs to help Croft and as they are hauling the metal case back to the plane Croft spots the police boat heading his way.
"A.J. Croft, this is the Williston Police Department. Drop your weapons and stay where you are!" says the officer piloting the boat over the loudspeaker.
Croft and the other gunmen begin to load the crate aboard the plane via the cargo hatch as the third gunman emerges from the main hatch.
"We've got to get outta here!"
"We have to get this thing loaded first, cover us!" Croft yells.
The mercenary disappears into the cabin of the plane for a moment then reappears armed with a 9MM Uzi. He opens fire on the patrol boat still some fifty yards out just as the case is finally loaded. Croft and the first gunman climb aboard the plane just as his friend with the Uzi is shot from behind. He looks to the north to find two black vans arrive on site loaded with more federal officers.
"Let's go, let's go!" Croft yells to the pilot.
He fires his pistol towards the van just as the first patrol boat hits the dock. The Kilo agents step onto the dock just as the plane is pulling away. Croft shoots one of them and then closes the hatch; the second agent tries to jump onto the pontoon but is too short and falls into the lake. The other two boats finally catch up with the third but keep their speed as they see the plane attempting to take off. The Kilo agents order the officers to keep up with the plane as they take fire and shoot out the windows. After ducking from the shots Croft aims his pistol out the nearest window. He fires hitting at least two more agents just as the plane lifts off the lake. It gradually picks up speed as it ascends higher and turns north.
Hudson pulls out a flash grenade and hands it to Stone.
"Fake left and I'll throw it, we'll advance as soon as it blows." Stone says.
"Now!" Hudson says as he attempts to emerge from his cover.
Another bullet rings out hitting a nearby tree just as Stone stands on his knees and hurls the flash grenade. Hudson's feign only partially distracts the Talon from the grenade, he averts his eyes just in time to avoid the flash which would have blinded him long enough to get caught. However the grenade does succeed as he finds himself suddenly slightly dizzy and disoriented enough for the agents to make their move. He fires two or three more shots towards the agent's general direction then makes a run for it. Stone and Hudson make their move once the flash has dissipated. The Talon runs about fifty feet still dazed and seeing spots before stopping behind a huge rock formation. He blinks several times then waves his hand in front of his face trying to reacquire his bearings just as hears the two federal agents approaching.
"Where did he go now?" Hudson exclaims.
Assuming they had caught up to the arms dealer, he and Stone stand exposed with their weapons raised directly in front of the rock formation. Suddenly the Talon breaks his cover getting the drop on Stone and Hudson. He fires two shots however the disorientation affects his aim and the bullets intended for Hudson's head hit him square in the chest knocking him off his feet! Stone's reflexes tell him to fire back as he sprays 5.56mm rounds all over the rock formation. He hears the click of the emptied magazine and drops the rifle quickly drawing his Beretta. He circles around the rock formation where the Talon seizes the element of surprise again. He elbows Stone in the face then aims to fire at point blank range. Stone recoils a step from the blow but quickly executes a kick to the arms dealers' right hand that is holding his weapon. The pistol flies from the Talon's grip but he keeps his focus and quickly disarms his opponent of his own weapon then gives him a sidekick to the gut. This time the blow sends Stone tumbling backwards, he lands on his back but before the Talon can make a move for a firearm he sweeps his leg sending him to the ground as well. The two immediately get to their feet engaging each other in hand-to-hand combat. Still recovering from the first two blows Stone does his best to keep the edge. The fight continues for a moment with no clear victor until Stone receives a swift chop to the throat! The pain causes Stone to unintentionally lower his defenses; a reaction he knows just blew his chances of capturing his opponent. Before he realizes it he receives another blow to the midsection then a roundhouse kick to the forehead. The latter of the two sends him plummeting face down in the dirt. The Talon grabs his pistol and fires but the round misfires and the chamber slides forward empty. He suddenly hears more agents approaching and decides to take the small victory and make his escape.
Stone regains consciousness a few moments later and immediately feels the pain rush through his forehead. He looks up and finds the Talon is long gone.
"Agh . . . . .uh . . .dang it!"
He gets to his feet slowly, retrieves his Beretta, and staggers his way back to Hudson who is still lying on the ground. His hopes are confirmed as he sees his friend taking short yet painful breathes of air. He collapses on the ground next to him and begins checking his friend for puncture wounds.
"You okay?"
"I think so, hurts like hell." Hudson replies. "I don't think they punctured."
After finding no evidence of further injury Stone slowly pulls the bullet proof vest off his friend, exhausted himself he simply lies back down on the ground just as the Beechcraft seaplane flies overhead. He then notices Anderson and his unit pull up in the van nearby.
"The Talon got away, if Croft was on that plane it's going to make this a very crappy day." Stone says to Anderson before he can say anything.
"Oh crappy day!." Anderson says trying his best to lighten the mood.
"Well this mission turned out to be a complete failure." Hudson says still laying on the ground.
"Is there any positive news that came out of all this?" Stone asks.
"Well one of our Kilo boys on the boats got a good look at that green case Croft bought from the arms dealer." Anderson replies.
"And?"
"Well assuming it's not a decoy case it said Armbrust on it."
"Armbrust. Never heard of it." Stone replies.
"I have." Hudson says as he and Stone finally get to their feet. "It's a missile."
A few hours later back at the boathouse Stone and the others look up the technical data on the Armbrust. Hudson being the only one of them that is somewhat familiar with the weapon system gives the briefing.
"It's an older piece of weaponry made in West Germany; the Armbrust was designed as a man portable anti tank system." Hudson explains displaying a three hundred sixty degree view of the weapon. "It was never made in large quantities but it was used by West Germany and U.S. Army Delta Force. It's most notable and probably useful feature is that it has no back blast, which makes it ideal for firing within enclosed positions."
"You specifically mean indoors?" Stone asks.
"Right."
"I think I see Croft's attraction now." Stone says.
"What do you think he's gonna use it for?" Drake asks.
"No telling." Hudson replies.
"Best guess would be a bank vault." O'Bryan suggests.
"Possibly but I'm thinking assassination." Stone adds.
"What, no way!" Drake says thinking the idea sounds ludicrous.
"He only bought one." Stone adds. "What job could he be working that would only require one. If he was gonna use it on a bank vault the smart thing to do would be buy a few extra missiles in case the first didn't penetrate."
"He's right." O'Bryan says.
"Okay but assassination, really?" Drake replies.
"Steven, with your best rifle what is the longest shot you've ever made. I'll even give you the clearest day with no wind, what range?" Stone asks.
"Eight hundred seventy-six yards, made that shot when I was with the Seals. There have only been maybe a dozen or less that have made shots over nine hundred; a handful that have made a thousand." Drake explains.
"Okay. Hudson, what is the range on the Armbrust?" Stone asks.
Hudson takes a look at the statistics displayed on his computer. "Sixteen hundred yards."
"Just beat ya!" Stone says looking at Drake. "He can fire this thing off from a much farther distance, which gives him more time to escape, and then he doesn't even have to hit the target dead on. As long as he hits within a few feet the explosion would annihilate the target leaving very little chance for his mark to survive."
"Hell he could be on the top of a roof with a chopper ready to lift off." O'Bryan adds.
"So now we just have to find out where, when and whom he's planning to use thing on." Hudson adds.
Just then Anderson approaches having been busy with treating wounds and overseeing the policing of the area.
"Anderson, did we capture any of Croft's men?" Stone asks.
"Just one but he was wounded and is already on his way to the hospital under police escort."
"Escorted by Kilo?"
"No Williston P.D."
"How bad was he wounded?" Stone asks.
"I'm not sure, one of the paramedics Sheriff Johnston called in treated him. I just made sure that he was under guard when they left with him."
Stone immediately orders Drake and O'Bryan to go to the hospital and check on his status.
"If and when he's conscious question him about Croft's plans, whereabouts, his employer the works." Stone says.
Once they leave Stone asks Anderson for the report he came over to give him.
"Seven men wounded in all, five Kilo agents and two lake patrol officers. Most of the injuries were sustained in the legs or arms and should be fine. However we do have one Kilo agent in serious condition and should be arriving anytime at Mercy Medical Center back in town." Anderson explains. "Several others, including Hudson, took hits but their vests saved their lives."
Hudson simply frowns at the slight jab but isn't offended.
"The rest of the injured are on their way to Mercy as well, some of them will be there a couple days." Anderson adds.
"Is the area secure?" Stone asks.
"Yup."
"Alright let's pack up here and head back to the plane, we can wait there until we hear back from Drake and O'Bryan." Stone orders.
Two hours later Stone and the others have their gear stowed away aboard the Lear jet and are ready for takeoff. The eight of them relax aboard the plane as they wait to hear word from Drake, shortly thereafter Stone finally receives a call.
"What's the word Steven?"
"Our suspect just came out of surgery, the doctor said it would be a couple of hours before he's conscious again." Drake explains. "What are your orders, sir?"
"Wait one." Stone says as he looks towards Hudson.
"What's up?"
"Suspect just came out of surgery, it'll be a few hours before he can be questioned. I was thinking about leaving the two of them here until they can question this guy." Stone says.
"Sounds good to me, they can also accompany our wounded back home, once they're released." Hudson replies.
"Good point, I didn't think of that." Stone replies. "Steven, you and Patrick are going to stay behind for a few days."
Stone explains the details of the assignment to Drake and informs him to have their suspect under police guard at all times.
"Any questions?"
"No sir." Drake replies.
"Okay, give me an update as soon as you have one. In the meantime I'll arrange a hotel room for you guys." Stone replies.
"Copy that."
Stone disconnects the call then informs the captain that he can takeoff whenever ready. As the plane begins to taxi out to the runway Hudson asks Stone what their next move is.
"That all depends on what this suspect can tell us and if Watts can find a lead to this Talon. If so maybe we can draw him out somehow."
"Don't you think he'll lie low for awhile, after today anyway?" Hudson asks.
Unsure of their options and exhausted after the day's events, Stone leans his head back and closes his eyes.
"I dunno Will, I just don't know. All I know is I don't want to think about work for at least the next five hours."
He adjusts his seat into a slightly reclined position and drifts off to sleep just moments after the plane lifts off the ground.