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CHAPTER 25 2 WEEKS LATER: HOUSE "I won't be long." Sark assures kissing Sydney sweetly.
Sydney nods rubbing her middle. "I love you."
Sark grins "I love you too."
Sydney watches as he walks out of the kitchen and the baby kicks in response. "Hey he won't be gone long... just went to get your sister."
3:00PM Sydney gasps as she feels the baby kick hard, "Hey calm down little guy." She leans against the counter trying to catch her breath.
"So you're the one he's been protecting."
Sydney starts in surprise when she hears the voice and turns to see a tall black woman standing there a gun in hand as two other men stand nearby. "Who the hell are you?"
"I'm assuming your the one who replaced me in his bed."
Sydney stares at the other woman "You must be Alison. Sark told me about you."
"And what did he say?"
"Not much." Sydney looks at the three warily. "Why are you here?" She hugs her middle protectively. 'Julian.'
Alison notices the other woman's gesture "Let's go."
"I'm not going anywhere with you!" Sydney snaps
"I could kill you... or perhaps I should just kill your baby."
Sydney pales "Hurt my baby and I'll kill you myself." She hisses
"Then don't give us any trouble." Alison gestures with her gun.
Sydney steps in front of the other woman wanting to beat the woman's smugness but knowing that getting into a fight will put her baby in danger she controls herself. 'Daddy will find us.' She rubs her middle soothingly as she feels the baby kick then grabs her jacket off the coat rack by the door, 'Julian find us... soon.'
3:20PM "Mom" Ava rushes into the house dropping her backpack in the foyer. "Mom"
"Ava don't leave" Sark trails off shaking his head he follows Ava back to the kitchen expecting to see Sydney still there. "Sydney?" He calls
"Dad where's Mom?" Ava asks puzzled when she doesn't find her Mom downstairs.
"Perhaps she went up to take a nap." Sark muses "Why don't you go check upstairs."
"OK" Ava runs out of the kitchen and up the stairs.
Sark notices the cup of tea Sydney was preparing just sitting on the counter and frowns.
Ava knocks on the bedroom door, "Mom?" She opens the door when she doesn't receive an answer to find the bedroom empty.
Sark looks up as Ava enters the kitchen, "Is she upstairs?"
Ava shakes her head
"Maybe she's in the living room or library." Sark remarks "Let's go see." He takes the little girl's hand and they head back to the library. After a few minutes of looking Sark becomes concerned.
"Dad where's Mom?" Ava asks worried.
Not wanting to worry the girl Sark remains calm even though his whole body is screaming 'Something is wrong.' "Sweets why don't you go start your homework." He suggests at her worried expression he gives her a small smile "Go on." Once Ava is out of the room he takes out his phone dialing Will's number.
"Hello?"
"Is Sydney with you?" Sark demands without greeting the other man.
"No why?"
"She's not home. I went to pick up Ava and we came back and Sydney's not in the house."
"She's not with me." Will answers worried. "Sydney wouldn't leave the house without telling one of us."
"She didn't leave on her own... her jacket is gone and the car is still here."
"I'll be right there." Will hangs up
Sark ends the call then dials Jack's number.
"Jack Bristow"
"Have you heard from Sydney?" Sark asks
"No. Why?"
Sark swears under his breath running his hand over his hair, "I need you to have the cameras accessed around here."
"Why?"
"I left to pick Ava up from school and Sydney's not here yet the car is. Will hasn't heard from her either."
"I will have Marshall check the security cameras and call you back."
"How are you going to answer the fact he'll find me on them?"
"I'll deal with Marshall." Jack assures "I will call you once I know something."
"Good." Sark hangs up taking a deep breath trying to stifle his feelings of worry.
SAME TIME: CAR Sydney looks out the window of the car arms wrapped around her middle, 'Julian... find us.' She swallows the worry that threatens to overwhelm her. 'Hurry.'
4PM: HOUSE "Have you heard anything?" Will demands
Sark shakes his head his eyes on Ava who is sitting at the kitchen table quietly working on her homework. "Jack is looking into the security cameras around here."
"And how is he going to explain you?"
Sark shrugs "I don't care. I want her back."
"And Ava? She's going to wonder soon."
"I know. I will tell her when Jack knows more." Sark reaches above the refrigerator to the cabinet where he removes a bottle of wine.
9PM: SOMEWHERE Sydney ignores the woman who is staring at her with such hate then winces her hands going to her middle, 'Its OK little guy. Daddy and Grandpa will find us.' She takes a deep breath, 'Ava must be worried.'
HOUSE Sark pales when he sees the picture appear on the screen "That bitch." He snarls
"Who is she?" Jack demands
"Alison Dorne." Sark says angrily. "We used to be involved."
"Why would she take Sydney?"
"Because I told her that Sydney and Ava are off limits."
"And she still went after Sydney"
"Ali's not the sanest person in the world."
"Where is she?"
"I have no idea. Alison has her own resources. Irina wanted two with the ability to take control. I was the first choice she was second. Irina is the only one who knows."
"She won't tell us anything... even for Sydney."
"She might tell me." Sark says after a minute. "I'm bringing Ava with me."
"WHAT?!"
"I'm not leaving her here alone... even with Mr. Tippin here Alison might come back."
"Fine. I will inform Kendall you are on your way in."
"Ava will be coming as well."
"There will be questions."
"I don't care. Until I get Sydney back the only way I will let Ava out of my sight is if she's in a secure place." Sark hangs up to see Will enter the room, "Wake Ava up. We're going back to Los Angeles."
"Why?"
"I need to see Irina and I'm not leaving Ava here." Sark stands "Just wake her... pack her a bag. We leave in twenty. If you want to come with then fine if not" he shrugs "I'm still taking Ava." He walks over to the closet and unlocks it to reveal a steel door. He spins the lock then opens the door to reveal guns and all sorts of weapons.
Will sighs "Fine." He walks out of the room.
20 MINS LATER "Daddy?" Ava rubs her eyes sleepily as she walks down the stairs with Will behind her. "Is Mommy back?"
Sark crouches before the girl, "Not yet sweets." He brushes Ava's hair back then looks at Will. "Go get your coat on all right?"
Ava nods sleepily as she hugs Hank the bear
Will urges Ava to the foyer to help her into her jacket.
HOUR LATER: JET Sark covers Ava with a blanket then nods at the co-pilot then he settles beside Ava while Will sits across from him.
"Where is Sydney, Sark?" Will demands
"I'm not exactly sure." Sark admits "I have an idea who has her but not why. That's why I need to see Irina."
"She's not going to be happy to find out your alive."
"I know. Hopefully she'll realize it was for the best."
"From what I know about Syd... Irina" Will corrects "isn't one to let anything go."
"No she's not but she did ask me to protect them... and doing what I did was the best way to protect them." Sark looks at Ava, "I'd do it again if it meant keeping them safe."
"And now your current and past lovers are together... what will she do to Syd?"
"I don't know. Alison's unpredictable... to a point. Irina is the only one who know where Alison's places are."
"You don't know?"
"She would know better than to pick a place I know about. Irina would have the connections to know where to find Alison."
"And if you find this Alison?"
Sark looks at Ava then at Will, "She crossed the line. She put Sydney and our child in danger. If anything happens to either of them it will be painful." He looks back at Ava.
Will shivers at Sark's tone 'He'll do it too.'
15 HOURS LATER: AIRPORT "Grandpa" Ava runs to her Grandpa as he waits beside the car.
Jack picks up the little girl, "Hello sweetheart. How are you?"
Ava shrugs
Jack nods at Will and Sark as they join them, "Kendall is waiting for us. Are you sure about bringing Ava?" He looks at Sark.
Sark nods "She's safer with me."
Jack nods "Will are you going to go see Francie or come with us?"
"Someone needs to keep her occupied." Will nods at Ava.
HOUR LATER: CIA Michael Vaughn, Eric Weiss, and Marcus Dixon and many others stare at the sight of the man they all believed dead walks into the area while holding the hand of Sydney's daughter Ava with Jack and Will following. "What the..." Weiss trails off
"He's alive." Vaughn says stunned
"Mr. Sark" Kendall joins them "welcome back." He looks at the little girl surprised to see her holding the assassin's hand. "Hello Ava"
"Hi Mr. Kendall." Ava says charmingly
"Jack" Kendall nods "she's been told your coming like you requested."
"We'll be there in a minute."
Vaughn, Dixon and Weiss look at Kendall stunned as the three men take the child into Jack's office, "Sir Sark is alive?" Vaughn demands
Kendall nods "We will brief you on everything after he and Jack speak with Irina." He walks away
Weiss shakes his head, "Anyone else stunned by the fact Sydney's daughter was holding Sark's hand?"
"Beyond stunned." Vaughn says
"I thought that they were in London." Dixon states "If Ava is here where is Sydney?"
"I guess we'll have to wait until the briefing." Vaughn shrugs
WHILE LATER Jack stops before the cell where his former wife is sitting on the cot reading, "Hello Irina."
Irina looks up "Jack so what is with this unexpected visit?" She asks closing her book she stands. "How is Sydney?"
"There's someone who wanted to see you."
Sark enters the room "Hello Irina."
Irina hides her surprise "So you're alive. Does Sydney know?"
"She knows." Sark answers "She's why I'm here."
"Is she OK?" Irina asks worried
"She's missing. Alison took her. We need to find Alison but you are the only one who knows all of her hideouts."
"You don't?" Irina questions
"She wouldn't go to the ones I know about. I need the ones you know about and I need your resources."
"Why would Alison take Sydney?" Irina wonders
"Revenge for you and Sloane being here." Sark answers "She believes Sydney should pay and like I promised I told Alison that Sydney and Ava are off limits. You know Alison doesn't take no for an answer."
"Alison has always been the wildcard... even more than you." Irina muses
"Do you have any idea where Alison could have taken Sydney? A place I wouldn't know about or think about?" Sark demands impatiently.
"I don't know. Its been a while."
Jack presses the button on his watch then speaks "We have 30 seconds." He looks at Irina "Sydney didn't want anyone to know not even you but her pregnancy this time isn't the easiest because of her injuries since Ava. Its why she stayed in London she's not supposed to travel."
"I want Sydney and my son back or I will rip apart what is left of your organization and there will be no survivors." Sark threatens "And you know I will do it."
"Finally someone admits it." Irina shakes her head amused.
"You knew?" Jack says surprised
"I've known Ava was his since the first picture I ever saw of her. I assumed when Sydney told me she was pregnant that it was yours."
"How long did you know about Ava?" Sark demands
"I knew your father... he asked me to keep an eye on you after you and your Mother left Russia. I knew about Ava since Sydney found out she was pregnant." Irina shrugs "Its why I told you to keep an eye on Sydney when you started at SD-6. I knew in time she'd tell you."
"My father? Who is he?"
"That's something your mother wanted you to find out on your own." Irina shrugs
"Now is not the time for this." Jack snaps "We'll deal with that issue later. We need to find Sydney."
"There are two places she could be... I am assuming Alison will keep Sydney in Europe." Irina muses "Easier then bringing her to the States or South America." She gives them a few addresses "If she's not there try Trevan Marselle. He might be able to give you more places... he set up the safe houses for both of your sides." She looks at Sark. "Good luck."
Knowing his former mentor won't give anything else Sark walks away leaving Jack with Irina.
Once Sark is out of the room Irina looks at Jack, "How long has she been missing?"
"Since yesterday afternoon. He went to pick Ava up from school and when he returned she was gone." Jack answers knowing that the secure link has ended.
"How bad are the complications?" Irina asks
"The doctor said she shouldn't be pregnant." Jack walks away leaving Irina standing there. He finds Sark leaning against the wall. "Now is not the time for this Sark."
"Which is why I'm bloody trying to keep myself from going in there and forcing the truth out of her." Sark says in a barely controlled voice.
"Deal with that issue later. We have a briefing with Kendall and the others in ten minutes. I will go see what Marshall can find on Trevan Marselle and those coordinates."
Sark nods walking with Jack out of the secure area.
WHILE LATER Jack enters his office to find Sark sitting nearby watching Ava color with Will. "Kendall's ready."
Sark nods standing then follows Jack out of the room knowing Ava will be fine with Will. They enter the conference room where they find the others seated. "If this was anyone elses life I'd think this would be an intervention." Sark says sarcastically.
"Now is not the time for your sarcasm Sark." Kendall says with annoyance. "What have you learned from Irina?"
"The possible areas where Alison could be keeping Sydney." Jack answers
"Who is Alison exactly?" Dixon inquires
"Alison Dorne." Jack presses a button pulling up a picture on the screen. "Alison was supposedly killed in a car accident at the age of 12."
"And how do you know her Sark?" Vaughn questions
"Take a wild guess." Sark retorts "Alison was third in line to run everything... now she's no longer going to run anything when I get my hands on her."
"Irina gave us possible locations of where to find them but she said it is possible Alison has a new location she knows nothing about." Jack informs them.
"I located Trevan Marselle. He's still alive. We didn't pick him up." Marshall says
"Marselle is not of importance in the organization... he takes care of the safe houses and real estate issues." Sark states. "Keeping him around is useful."
"I checked the security around each of the addresses you gave me and I have yet to find any activity." Marshall says apologetically.
"A jet took off from London at four with no chartered course." Weiss adds "We've tracked it to Germany with a pick up at the airport. We lost the car though."
"So there is a good chance their in Germany." Jack states
"Or they could have crossed the border."
Sark frowns "Which direction was the car going?"
"North why?"
"She wouldn't"
"Wouldn't what?"
"I had a home in the German countryside for a few years but I sold it two years ago."
"And Dorne knew about it?" Jack asks
Sark nods "She lived there on and off over the years whether or not I was there."
"She might have bought the place." Vaughn muses
"Or just killed the people who live there." Sark mutters
"Could she have taken Sydney there?" Kendall inquires
"It is possible." Sark agrees
"Where exactly is this place?"
LATE EVENING Sark enters Jack's office to find Ava on the couch asleep as Will sits nearby reading a book. "How long has she been asleep?"
"About an hour." Will looks up
Sark pulls the blanket up staring at Ava.
"How are things going?" Will asks softly
"She could be in Germany." He glances at Will then back at Ava, "They are checking each place."
"She'd sleep better in her own bed." Will states
"Until we know for sure where Alison is she stays here."
Will nods
"Sark" Jack enters his office
Sark tears his eyes away from Ava, "Well?"
"Marshall confirmed that someone is living in the house. We're still waiting for confirmation that it's Dorne."
Sark nods
"Kendall wants to brief the teams going in... I take it you want to go as well."
"Yes. I know that place better than anyone."
"Once it is confirmed that Dorne is there with Sydney we'll be leaving. Reed said she would make sure Will and Ava get on a flight back to London once Sydney has been retrieved. I take it you want to take Sydney back to London as well?"
"Its a shorter trip to London than it is here."
Jack nods
SAME TIME: GERMANY Sydney steadies herself as the man shoves her into the room. "Do you mind having an extra 25 pounds kind of puts my balance off." She lowers herself onto the cot in the corner.
"I can't believe Sark wants someone like you." Dorne mutters
"What makes you think Sark and I are involved?"
"He's living with you. I saw pictures of you two kissing."
Sydney winces "He promised Irina he'd protect us... so he moved in."
"Its your fault Irina and Sloane are in jail."
"They got caught on their own. I wasn't even at work when they were brought in."
"He should be here running things with me but no he wants you."
'She's not entirely sane.' Sydney realizes
"He was mine for seven years... granted we were never loyal to each other but he has never turned me down. But now he turns me down for you!"
Sydney winces as the other woman suddenly backhands her blood filling her mouth. Sydney spits out the blood glaring at the other woman remaining silent knowing her baby's safety depends on keeping her temper.
"He would rather be around you and your brats then running this organization with me! Its like he's bored with it." Alison says angrily as she paces "Sark has never been bored with this life... he loves the challenge."
'He wants to be with me and our babies.' Sydney thinks as she absently runs her hands over her middle.
"With you out of the way he'll want to run things with me again."
"Or he'll just kill you." Sydney retorts "I know about his promise to Irina. I know that he's loyal to her and only her." 'And me and our children.' "If anything happens to my baby I'll kill you myself."
Alison shrugs nodding at the man in the corner, "Do it." She walks out of the room where two other men are waiting. "We're leaving here once he's done. Have her ready to move." A moment later, the door opens and the man walks out, "Done?"
"You're next."
"We'll do this upstairs."
Inside the room Sydney swallows a wave of nausea as she spits the blood out of her mouth then leans her head against the brick wall, 'Julian hurry... please.' She swallows heavily not wanting to cry despite the pain in her jaw.
9PM: CIA "Its been determined that Sydney is being kept at a farmhouse in the German countryside." Kendall announces "Jack and Sark will be accompanying you to Germany." He looks at Weiss, Dixon, and Vaughn. "Try to keep the body count down." He looks at Sark before he continues "The other members of your team will be meeting you in Germany."
"When do we leave?" Dixon inquires
"In an hour." Kendall answers "You'll go over the plan on the way. Good luck." He walks out of the room.
HOUR LATER "Where are you going?" Ava asks sleepily
"We're going to go get your Mom back." Sark answers "Will is going to stay with you and when we get your Mom back you'll be going back to London."
Ava nods rubbing her eyes
"Go back to sleep." Sark smiles faintly at the girl's actions. He leans down kissing Ava's forehead. "We'll see you in a few days."
"Is Mom going to be OK?"
Sark nods "I'm sure she will be. Be good for Will all right sweets."
"I will." She says sleepily as she hugs Hank the bear.
Sark pulls the blanket up, "Everything will be all right." He assures
Ava smiles sleepily, "Love you Daddy." She mumbles sleepily.
"I love you too sweets." After a moment, he stands walking out of the office where he finds the others waiting. He ignores Vaughn's expression as he joins Jack "She's asleep."
"Good." Jack nods handing Sark his previously confiscated guns.
COUPLE HOURS LATER: GERMANY Sydney winces shifting uncomfortably. 'Its OK baby.' She rubs her side 'Daddy and Grandpa will find us soon.' She closes her eyes taking a deep breath. 'Please don't let anything happen to him.' She prays silently then slowly she drifts off to sleep her arms around her middle.
SAME TIME: JET Sark closes his eyes, 'We're coming love. Just don't piss Alison off.'
"We have a problem." Dixon announces
Sark sits up "What?"
"We just received a report... there was an explosion at the house." Dixon informs them. "The German authorities are there but they haven't found any survivors."
"Did they leave beforehand?" Sark demands
"According to the security that we sent no one has left since they arrived." Dixon informs them with great reluctance. "Kendall is clearing the way for an investigation."
Jack takes a deep breath, "Check and make sure no suspicious flights have left Germany." He looks at Sark once their alone, "Well?"
"She's not dead." Sark says firmly. 'She can't be dead... they can't be dead.'
12 HOURS LATER: GERMANY Sark stares at the rubble of the house, 'No one could have survived this.' He mentally shakes his head, 'No Sydney would. She had too.'
"We should get back." Jack says. "There's nothing here. Weiss and Vaughn are going to stay to overlook the evidence pick up."
"If anyone else in the organization has anything to do with taking Sydney I will kill them." Sark warns
"We can't deal with that right now Sark. Right now we need to head back to Los Angeles and see what they come up with." Jack regards Sark who is staring at the rubble. "Well?"
"I have a bad feeling about all of this Jack." Sark says reluctantly.
"Its Sydney, she'll be fine."
"I hope so." Sark mutters
17 HOURS LATER: CIA Sark walks into Jack's office where he finds Ava curled up on the couch sleeping, while Will sits nearby.
"Where's Sydney?" Will demands
Sark shakes his head, "Jack will tell you." He nods out the window where Jack is talking with Kendall. "How long has she been asleep?"
"An hour or so." Will answers. "Its been hard keeping her inside. She's not used to being cooped up."
"I know."
"At least she's had Marshall to entertain her." Will muses
"We'll be here for a while. Tomorrow we'll take her back to the house."
"The house here?"
Sark nods, "She'll be more comfortable there."
"What about Francie?"
"We'll figure that out later." Sark gently strokes Ava's hair.
CHAPTER 26 NEXT MORNING: HOUSE "Francie" Will calls as they walk into the living room.
Francie walks into the living room to find Will, Jack, Sark, and Ava standing there. "If you guys are here where's Sydney?"
"Ava why don't we go play so they can talk." Will suggests ushering Ava back to her room.
"What's going on?" Francie demands looking at Jack and Sark warily. "Where's Sydney?"
"She's missing." Jack informs Francie.
"Missing? How's that possible?"
"There's a lot about my daughter you don't know Francie." Jack says softly.
"Sydney doesn't keep secrets from me... unless she has too."
"She had to keep this one." Sark says "She was trying to protect you."
"From what?"
Jack takes a deep breath, "She used to work for the CIA."
"She works for a bank." Francie protests
"Never did." Jack says reluctantly, "Look this is a long and complicated story so sit down"
HOUR LATER Francie paces the floor "She's been keeping this from me for 7 years?!"
Jack nods "She's wanted to tell you but she knew you were safer without knowing the truth."
"And you used to be a wanted terrorist?" Francie looks at Sark.
"Yes."
Francie runs her fingers through her hair, "Where is Sydney then?"
"Last time she was seen was when she was taken out of the house." Sark answers. "We haven't seen her since."
"Who took her?"
"Still figuring that out." Jack lies
"Will knows?"
Jack nods "Has since his arrest."
"And Danny?"
"That's why Sydney didn't want to tell you." Jack answers
"Why tell me now?" Francie demands
"She's missing and we knew you'd be suspicious about not hearing from her." Sark explains
"She wanted to tell you Francie... almost did numerous times but I unfortunately convinced her not too." Jack says reluctantly, "She wanted to keep you safe from the truth... especially after what happened to Daniel. Sydney doesn't have many friends outside of work and she needed that."
Francie nods "This is just... unbelievable." She mutters. "I knew Sydney was keeping secrets but not something like this."
Sark is about to speak when his phone rings. He fishes it out of his pocket and presses talk, "Yes?" He frowns "What do you mean she hasn't been seen or heard from? What about her security? Fine. I'll return soon." He hangs up looking at Jack, "She's nowhere. No one has heard from her. Security that was watching her... nothing."
"Any idea where else she could be?" Jack demands
"No. Look I need to get back before they start a rebellion." He walks back to Ava's room where he finds Will playing with the girl. "Ava"
Seeing the look on Sark's face Will quietly leaves the room. Sark sits on the edge of Ava's bed pulling her onto his lap, "Ava, I need to leave for a while."
"Dad where's Mom?"
"I don't know Ava. Grandpa and I and everyone else are going to look for them but to do that I need to leave for a while."
"I don't want you to go."
"I don't want to go either but to get your Mom and brother back I have to do this."
Ava bites her lip, "I want Mommy."
"I know. I'm going to do anything and everything I can to get them back."
Ava nods "When will you be back?"
"Soon."
"OK" Ava wraps her arms around his neck, "Love you Daddy"
"I love you too." Sark kisses her forehead, "I'm going to find them."
Ava nods
"I will check in every day." Sark promises. "You'll be safe here."
"I want to stay with you Daddy."
"Everything's going to be fine Ava." Sark assures.
THAT NIGHT: HOUSE "Ava phone. Its your Dad." Francie informs the girl.
Ava turns taking the phone, "Dad"
"Hello sweets."
"Where are you?"
"Still in the air. I just wanted to call and say goodnight. Its almost time for you to be in bed."
"Do I have to?"
"Yes. Its 8."
"But I'm not tired."
"Bed."
Ava sighs "OK."
"I'll check in tomorrow night. Don't torment Will or Francie."
"I won't."
"Sleep well."
"Night Daddy."
"Night sweets." Sark hangs up
Ava sets the phone on the table.
"Bed time Ava." Will reminds
"I know." Ava stands walking out of the living room.
"God I hope Sydney and the baby are OK." Francie sighs
"Me too." Will agrees
"For Ava to lose Sydney... thats going to be really hard on the girl."
Will nods "I know. Sark and Jack will do whatever they can to find Sydney and the baby."
"I know."
2 DAYS LATER: CIA "Jack... we have the DNA report back on the bodies." Kendall says
Jack looks up from his work "And?"
Kendall sets the file on Jack's desk, "I'm sorry."
Jack opens the file and reads the report then takes a deep breath. "Are they sure?"
"They ran the tests three times. It's her and Alison Dorne. I'm sorry Jack." Kendall says sympathetically.
"I need to see Irina." Jack says after a moment. "I want her to hear it from me."
"I'll let them know you're on your way down."
Jack nods sitting there he stares at the file open before him. 'My little girl's dead.' He sets his jaw not wanting to cry.
WHILE LATER Jack enters the secure room where Irina's handcuffed to the table dressed in prison greens. He sits across from her.
"Did you find Sydney?" Irina demands. When he doesn't answer she frowns, "Jack? What's going on? Where's Sydney?"
"She's dead." Jack slowly looks at his former wife. "They identified her remains... as well as Dorne's."
Irina stares at Jack, "What? They had orders to stay away from them!"
"Well obviously they didn't give a damn about your orders!" Jack retorts. "She's dead Irina."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. They ran the remains found three times."
Irina looks down, 'My baby's dead. Oh god Sydney.' "Have you told Ava and Sark?"
"No. Sark is out of town. He'll want to tell her himself."
Irina looks at Jack seeing the pain in his eyes she closes her eyes.
"I should go." Jack says after a few minutes of silence. "I have a lot I need to do." He stands starting towards the door.
"Jack"
Stopping Jack looks at her, "Don't Irina. Your too late for anything." He walks out of the room leaving Irina sitting there lost in thought.
COUPLE HOURS LATER Jack picks up the ringing phone, "Your late."
"Kind of hard to get away and call an enemy." Sark says sarcastically.
"You need to get back here."
"Why?" When Jack doesn't answer Sark frowns, "What's going on Jack?"
"They identified the remains."
"Sydney?"
"Yes. Dorne as well as some other people."
Sark takes a deep breath, "Have you told Ava?"
"If you want me to tell her I will but you are her father. She needs to hear this from you Sark."
"I'm on my way back." Sark hangs up.
NEXT EVENING: HOUSE "Where is she?" Sark asks as he enters the house.
"Her bedroom." Will answers as Jack enters behind Sark. "What's going on?"
"We need to talk." Jack says closing the door. He follows Will into the kitchen where Francie is cleaning up.
Francie looks up "Any news?"
Sark enters the bedroom to find Ava sitting on her bed reading. "Ava"
Ava looks up "Daddy" she sets her book aside, "Did you find Mommy?"
Sark takes a deep breath closing the door, "Ava we need to talk." He sits on the bed lifting her onto his lap.
"Daddy what's going on?" Ava asks worried. "Where's Mommy?"
HOUR LATER Sark walks into the living room where he finds Jack looking at pictures of Sydney and Ava. "She cried herself to sleep. Where are Will and Francie?"
"Upstairs." Jack answers "What now?"
"I'm shutting down the organization."
"Sark"
"Look that was the plan anyway. I'm just doing it ahead of time. We have enough to nail all of the leaders."
"We'll discuss this later." Jack says as Will walks into the living room.
"Francie's asleep." Will announces. "How's Ava?"
"Asleep."
"What now?"
"I'm going to look for all who planned this and rip them into pieces." Sark says coldly. He walks out of the room heading back to Ava's bedroom. He sits on the edge of the bed his eyes on Ava as she sleeps tears streaks on her face, 'I'm going to make them hurt for taking them from us. I swear Ava I'll make them pay.'
TBC.
I have to work on Wednesday... so I won't be updating until Thursday.
CHAPTER 25 2 WEEKS LATER: HOUSE "I won't be long." Sark assures kissing Sydney sweetly.
Sydney nods rubbing her middle. "I love you."
Sark grins "I love you too."
Sydney watches as he walks out of the kitchen and the baby kicks in response. "Hey he won't be gone long... just went to get your sister."
3:00PM Sydney gasps as she feels the baby kick hard, "Hey calm down little guy." She leans against the counter trying to catch her breath.
"So you're the one he's been protecting."
Sydney starts in surprise when she hears the voice and turns to see a tall black woman standing there a gun in hand as two other men stand nearby. "Who the hell are you?"
"I'm assuming your the one who replaced me in his bed."
Sydney stares at the other woman "You must be Alison. Sark told me about you."
"And what did he say?"
"Not much." Sydney looks at the three warily. "Why are you here?" She hugs her middle protectively. 'Julian.'
Alison notices the other woman's gesture "Let's go."
"I'm not going anywhere with you!" Sydney snaps
"I could kill you... or perhaps I should just kill your baby."
Sydney pales "Hurt my baby and I'll kill you myself." She hisses
"Then don't give us any trouble." Alison gestures with her gun.
Sydney steps in front of the other woman wanting to beat the woman's smugness but knowing that getting into a fight will put her baby in danger she controls herself. 'Daddy will find us.' She rubs her middle soothingly as she feels the baby kick then grabs her jacket off the coat rack by the door, 'Julian find us... soon.'
3:20PM "Mom" Ava rushes into the house dropping her backpack in the foyer. "Mom"
"Ava don't leave" Sark trails off shaking his head he follows Ava back to the kitchen expecting to see Sydney still there. "Sydney?" He calls
"Dad where's Mom?" Ava asks puzzled when she doesn't find her Mom downstairs.
"Perhaps she went up to take a nap." Sark muses "Why don't you go check upstairs."
"OK" Ava runs out of the kitchen and up the stairs.
Sark notices the cup of tea Sydney was preparing just sitting on the counter and frowns.
Ava knocks on the bedroom door, "Mom?" She opens the door when she doesn't receive an answer to find the bedroom empty.
Sark looks up as Ava enters the kitchen, "Is she upstairs?"
Ava shakes her head
"Maybe she's in the living room or library." Sark remarks "Let's go see." He takes the little girl's hand and they head back to the library. After a few minutes of looking Sark becomes concerned.
"Dad where's Mom?" Ava asks worried.
Not wanting to worry the girl Sark remains calm even though his whole body is screaming 'Something is wrong.' "Sweets why don't you go start your homework." He suggests at her worried expression he gives her a small smile "Go on." Once Ava is out of the room he takes out his phone dialing Will's number.
"Hello?"
"Is Sydney with you?" Sark demands without greeting the other man.
"No why?"
"She's not home. I went to pick up Ava and we came back and Sydney's not in the house."
"She's not with me." Will answers worried. "Sydney wouldn't leave the house without telling one of us."
"She didn't leave on her own... her jacket is gone and the car is still here."
"I'll be right there." Will hangs up
Sark ends the call then dials Jack's number.
"Jack Bristow"
"Have you heard from Sydney?" Sark asks
"No. Why?"
Sark swears under his breath running his hand over his hair, "I need you to have the cameras accessed around here."
"Why?"
"I left to pick Ava up from school and Sydney's not here yet the car is. Will hasn't heard from her either."
"I will have Marshall check the security cameras and call you back."
"How are you going to answer the fact he'll find me on them?"
"I'll deal with Marshall." Jack assures "I will call you once I know something."
"Good." Sark hangs up taking a deep breath trying to stifle his feelings of worry.
SAME TIME: CAR Sydney looks out the window of the car arms wrapped around her middle, 'Julian... find us.' She swallows the worry that threatens to overwhelm her. 'Hurry.'
4PM: HOUSE "Have you heard anything?" Will demands
Sark shakes his head his eyes on Ava who is sitting at the kitchen table quietly working on her homework. "Jack is looking into the security cameras around here."
"And how is he going to explain you?"
Sark shrugs "I don't care. I want her back."
"And Ava? She's going to wonder soon."
"I know. I will tell her when Jack knows more." Sark reaches above the refrigerator to the cabinet where he removes a bottle of wine.
9PM: SOMEWHERE Sydney ignores the woman who is staring at her with such hate then winces her hands going to her middle, 'Its OK little guy. Daddy and Grandpa will find us.' She takes a deep breath, 'Ava must be worried.'
HOUSE Sark pales when he sees the picture appear on the screen "That bitch." He snarls
"Who is she?" Jack demands
"Alison Dorne." Sark says angrily. "We used to be involved."
"Why would she take Sydney?"
"Because I told her that Sydney and Ava are off limits."
"And she still went after Sydney"
"Ali's not the sanest person in the world."
"Where is she?"
"I have no idea. Alison has her own resources. Irina wanted two with the ability to take control. I was the first choice she was second. Irina is the only one who knows."
"She won't tell us anything... even for Sydney."
"She might tell me." Sark says after a minute. "I'm bringing Ava with me."
"WHAT?!"
"I'm not leaving her here alone... even with Mr. Tippin here Alison might come back."
"Fine. I will inform Kendall you are on your way in."
"Ava will be coming as well."
"There will be questions."
"I don't care. Until I get Sydney back the only way I will let Ava out of my sight is if she's in a secure place." Sark hangs up to see Will enter the room, "Wake Ava up. We're going back to Los Angeles."
"Why?"
"I need to see Irina and I'm not leaving Ava here." Sark stands "Just wake her... pack her a bag. We leave in twenty. If you want to come with then fine if not" he shrugs "I'm still taking Ava." He walks over to the closet and unlocks it to reveal a steel door. He spins the lock then opens the door to reveal guns and all sorts of weapons.
Will sighs "Fine." He walks out of the room.
20 MINS LATER "Daddy?" Ava rubs her eyes sleepily as she walks down the stairs with Will behind her. "Is Mommy back?"
Sark crouches before the girl, "Not yet sweets." He brushes Ava's hair back then looks at Will. "Go get your coat on all right?"
Ava nods sleepily as she hugs Hank the bear
Will urges Ava to the foyer to help her into her jacket.
HOUR LATER: JET Sark covers Ava with a blanket then nods at the co-pilot then he settles beside Ava while Will sits across from him.
"Where is Sydney, Sark?" Will demands
"I'm not exactly sure." Sark admits "I have an idea who has her but not why. That's why I need to see Irina."
"She's not going to be happy to find out your alive."
"I know. Hopefully she'll realize it was for the best."
"From what I know about Syd... Irina" Will corrects "isn't one to let anything go."
"No she's not but she did ask me to protect them... and doing what I did was the best way to protect them." Sark looks at Ava, "I'd do it again if it meant keeping them safe."
"And now your current and past lovers are together... what will she do to Syd?"
"I don't know. Alison's unpredictable... to a point. Irina is the only one who know where Alison's places are."
"You don't know?"
"She would know better than to pick a place I know about. Irina would have the connections to know where to find Alison."
"And if you find this Alison?"
Sark looks at Ava then at Will, "She crossed the line. She put Sydney and our child in danger. If anything happens to either of them it will be painful." He looks back at Ava.
Will shivers at Sark's tone 'He'll do it too.'
15 HOURS LATER: AIRPORT "Grandpa" Ava runs to her Grandpa as he waits beside the car.
Jack picks up the little girl, "Hello sweetheart. How are you?"
Ava shrugs
Jack nods at Will and Sark as they join them, "Kendall is waiting for us. Are you sure about bringing Ava?" He looks at Sark.
Sark nods "She's safer with me."
Jack nods "Will are you going to go see Francie or come with us?"
"Someone needs to keep her occupied." Will nods at Ava.
HOUR LATER: CIA Michael Vaughn, Eric Weiss, and Marcus Dixon and many others stare at the sight of the man they all believed dead walks into the area while holding the hand of Sydney's daughter Ava with Jack and Will following. "What the..." Weiss trails off
"He's alive." Vaughn says stunned
"Mr. Sark" Kendall joins them "welcome back." He looks at the little girl surprised to see her holding the assassin's hand. "Hello Ava"
"Hi Mr. Kendall." Ava says charmingly
"Jack" Kendall nods "she's been told your coming like you requested."
"We'll be there in a minute."
Vaughn, Dixon and Weiss look at Kendall stunned as the three men take the child into Jack's office, "Sir Sark is alive?" Vaughn demands
Kendall nods "We will brief you on everything after he and Jack speak with Irina." He walks away
Weiss shakes his head, "Anyone else stunned by the fact Sydney's daughter was holding Sark's hand?"
"Beyond stunned." Vaughn says
"I thought that they were in London." Dixon states "If Ava is here where is Sydney?"
"I guess we'll have to wait until the briefing." Vaughn shrugs
WHILE LATER Jack stops before the cell where his former wife is sitting on the cot reading, "Hello Irina."
Irina looks up "Jack so what is with this unexpected visit?" She asks closing her book she stands. "How is Sydney?"
"There's someone who wanted to see you."
Sark enters the room "Hello Irina."
Irina hides her surprise "So you're alive. Does Sydney know?"
"She knows." Sark answers "She's why I'm here."
"Is she OK?" Irina asks worried
"She's missing. Alison took her. We need to find Alison but you are the only one who knows all of her hideouts."
"You don't?" Irina questions
"She wouldn't go to the ones I know about. I need the ones you know about and I need your resources."
"Why would Alison take Sydney?" Irina wonders
"Revenge for you and Sloane being here." Sark answers "She believes Sydney should pay and like I promised I told Alison that Sydney and Ava are off limits. You know Alison doesn't take no for an answer."
"Alison has always been the wildcard... even more than you." Irina muses
"Do you have any idea where Alison could have taken Sydney? A place I wouldn't know about or think about?" Sark demands impatiently.
"I don't know. Its been a while."
Jack presses the button on his watch then speaks "We have 30 seconds." He looks at Irina "Sydney didn't want anyone to know not even you but her pregnancy this time isn't the easiest because of her injuries since Ava. Its why she stayed in London she's not supposed to travel."
"I want Sydney and my son back or I will rip apart what is left of your organization and there will be no survivors." Sark threatens "And you know I will do it."
"Finally someone admits it." Irina shakes her head amused.
"You knew?" Jack says surprised
"I've known Ava was his since the first picture I ever saw of her. I assumed when Sydney told me she was pregnant that it was yours."
"How long did you know about Ava?" Sark demands
"I knew your father... he asked me to keep an eye on you after you and your Mother left Russia. I knew about Ava since Sydney found out she was pregnant." Irina shrugs "Its why I told you to keep an eye on Sydney when you started at SD-6. I knew in time she'd tell you."
"My father? Who is he?"
"That's something your mother wanted you to find out on your own." Irina shrugs
"Now is not the time for this." Jack snaps "We'll deal with that issue later. We need to find Sydney."
"There are two places she could be... I am assuming Alison will keep Sydney in Europe." Irina muses "Easier then bringing her to the States or South America." She gives them a few addresses "If she's not there try Trevan Marselle. He might be able to give you more places... he set up the safe houses for both of your sides." She looks at Sark. "Good luck."
Knowing his former mentor won't give anything else Sark walks away leaving Jack with Irina.
Once Sark is out of the room Irina looks at Jack, "How long has she been missing?"
"Since yesterday afternoon. He went to pick Ava up from school and when he returned she was gone." Jack answers knowing that the secure link has ended.
"How bad are the complications?" Irina asks
"The doctor said she shouldn't be pregnant." Jack walks away leaving Irina standing there. He finds Sark leaning against the wall. "Now is not the time for this Sark."
"Which is why I'm bloody trying to keep myself from going in there and forcing the truth out of her." Sark says in a barely controlled voice.
"Deal with that issue later. We have a briefing with Kendall and the others in ten minutes. I will go see what Marshall can find on Trevan Marselle and those coordinates."
Sark nods walking with Jack out of the secure area.
WHILE LATER Jack enters his office to find Sark sitting nearby watching Ava color with Will. "Kendall's ready."
Sark nods standing then follows Jack out of the room knowing Ava will be fine with Will. They enter the conference room where they find the others seated. "If this was anyone elses life I'd think this would be an intervention." Sark says sarcastically.
"Now is not the time for your sarcasm Sark." Kendall says with annoyance. "What have you learned from Irina?"
"The possible areas where Alison could be keeping Sydney." Jack answers
"Who is Alison exactly?" Dixon inquires
"Alison Dorne." Jack presses a button pulling up a picture on the screen. "Alison was supposedly killed in a car accident at the age of 12."
"And how do you know her Sark?" Vaughn questions
"Take a wild guess." Sark retorts "Alison was third in line to run everything... now she's no longer going to run anything when I get my hands on her."
"Irina gave us possible locations of where to find them but she said it is possible Alison has a new location she knows nothing about." Jack informs them.
"I located Trevan Marselle. He's still alive. We didn't pick him up." Marshall says
"Marselle is not of importance in the organization... he takes care of the safe houses and real estate issues." Sark states. "Keeping him around is useful."
"I checked the security around each of the addresses you gave me and I have yet to find any activity." Marshall says apologetically.
"A jet took off from London at four with no chartered course." Weiss adds "We've tracked it to Germany with a pick up at the airport. We lost the car though."
"So there is a good chance their in Germany." Jack states
"Or they could have crossed the border."
Sark frowns "Which direction was the car going?"
"North why?"
"She wouldn't"
"Wouldn't what?"
"I had a home in the German countryside for a few years but I sold it two years ago."
"And Dorne knew about it?" Jack asks
Sark nods "She lived there on and off over the years whether or not I was there."
"She might have bought the place." Vaughn muses
"Or just killed the people who live there." Sark mutters
"Could she have taken Sydney there?" Kendall inquires
"It is possible." Sark agrees
"Where exactly is this place?"
LATE EVENING Sark enters Jack's office to find Ava on the couch asleep as Will sits nearby reading a book. "How long has she been asleep?"
"About an hour." Will looks up
Sark pulls the blanket up staring at Ava.
"How are things going?" Will asks softly
"She could be in Germany." He glances at Will then back at Ava, "They are checking each place."
"She'd sleep better in her own bed." Will states
"Until we know for sure where Alison is she stays here."
Will nods
"Sark" Jack enters his office
Sark tears his eyes away from Ava, "Well?"
"Marshall confirmed that someone is living in the house. We're still waiting for confirmation that it's Dorne."
Sark nods
"Kendall wants to brief the teams going in... I take it you want to go as well."
"Yes. I know that place better than anyone."
"Once it is confirmed that Dorne is there with Sydney we'll be leaving. Reed said she would make sure Will and Ava get on a flight back to London once Sydney has been retrieved. I take it you want to take Sydney back to London as well?"
"Its a shorter trip to London than it is here."
Jack nods
SAME TIME: GERMANY Sydney steadies herself as the man shoves her into the room. "Do you mind having an extra 25 pounds kind of puts my balance off." She lowers herself onto the cot in the corner.
"I can't believe Sark wants someone like you." Dorne mutters
"What makes you think Sark and I are involved?"
"He's living with you. I saw pictures of you two kissing."
Sydney winces "He promised Irina he'd protect us... so he moved in."
"Its your fault Irina and Sloane are in jail."
"They got caught on their own. I wasn't even at work when they were brought in."
"He should be here running things with me but no he wants you."
'She's not entirely sane.' Sydney realizes
"He was mine for seven years... granted we were never loyal to each other but he has never turned me down. But now he turns me down for you!"
Sydney winces as the other woman suddenly backhands her blood filling her mouth. Sydney spits out the blood glaring at the other woman remaining silent knowing her baby's safety depends on keeping her temper.
"He would rather be around you and your brats then running this organization with me! Its like he's bored with it." Alison says angrily as she paces "Sark has never been bored with this life... he loves the challenge."
'He wants to be with me and our babies.' Sydney thinks as she absently runs her hands over her middle.
"With you out of the way he'll want to run things with me again."
"Or he'll just kill you." Sydney retorts "I know about his promise to Irina. I know that he's loyal to her and only her." 'And me and our children.' "If anything happens to my baby I'll kill you myself."
Alison shrugs nodding at the man in the corner, "Do it." She walks out of the room where two other men are waiting. "We're leaving here once he's done. Have her ready to move." A moment later, the door opens and the man walks out, "Done?"
"You're next."
"We'll do this upstairs."
Inside the room Sydney swallows a wave of nausea as she spits the blood out of her mouth then leans her head against the brick wall, 'Julian hurry... please.' She swallows heavily not wanting to cry despite the pain in her jaw.
9PM: CIA "Its been determined that Sydney is being kept at a farmhouse in the German countryside." Kendall announces "Jack and Sark will be accompanying you to Germany." He looks at Weiss, Dixon, and Vaughn. "Try to keep the body count down." He looks at Sark before he continues "The other members of your team will be meeting you in Germany."
"When do we leave?" Dixon inquires
"In an hour." Kendall answers "You'll go over the plan on the way. Good luck." He walks out of the room.
HOUR LATER "Where are you going?" Ava asks sleepily
"We're going to go get your Mom back." Sark answers "Will is going to stay with you and when we get your Mom back you'll be going back to London."
Ava nods rubbing her eyes
"Go back to sleep." Sark smiles faintly at the girl's actions. He leans down kissing Ava's forehead. "We'll see you in a few days."
"Is Mom going to be OK?"
Sark nods "I'm sure she will be. Be good for Will all right sweets."
"I will." She says sleepily as she hugs Hank the bear.
Sark pulls the blanket up, "Everything will be all right." He assures
Ava smiles sleepily, "Love you Daddy." She mumbles sleepily.
"I love you too sweets." After a moment, he stands walking out of the office where he finds the others waiting. He ignores Vaughn's expression as he joins Jack "She's asleep."
"Good." Jack nods handing Sark his previously confiscated guns.
COUPLE HOURS LATER: GERMANY Sydney winces shifting uncomfortably. 'Its OK baby.' She rubs her side 'Daddy and Grandpa will find us soon.' She closes her eyes taking a deep breath. 'Please don't let anything happen to him.' She prays silently then slowly she drifts off to sleep her arms around her middle.
SAME TIME: JET Sark closes his eyes, 'We're coming love. Just don't piss Alison off.'
"We have a problem." Dixon announces
Sark sits up "What?"
"We just received a report... there was an explosion at the house." Dixon informs them. "The German authorities are there but they haven't found any survivors."
"Did they leave beforehand?" Sark demands
"According to the security that we sent no one has left since they arrived." Dixon informs them with great reluctance. "Kendall is clearing the way for an investigation."
Jack takes a deep breath, "Check and make sure no suspicious flights have left Germany." He looks at Sark once their alone, "Well?"
"She's not dead." Sark says firmly. 'She can't be dead... they can't be dead.'
12 HOURS LATER: GERMANY Sark stares at the rubble of the house, 'No one could have survived this.' He mentally shakes his head, 'No Sydney would. She had too.'
"We should get back." Jack says. "There's nothing here. Weiss and Vaughn are going to stay to overlook the evidence pick up."
"If anyone else in the organization has anything to do with taking Sydney I will kill them." Sark warns
"We can't deal with that right now Sark. Right now we need to head back to Los Angeles and see what they come up with." Jack regards Sark who is staring at the rubble. "Well?"
"I have a bad feeling about all of this Jack." Sark says reluctantly.
"Its Sydney, she'll be fine."
"I hope so." Sark mutters
17 HOURS LATER: CIA Sark walks into Jack's office where he finds Ava curled up on the couch sleeping, while Will sits nearby.
"Where's Sydney?" Will demands
Sark shakes his head, "Jack will tell you." He nods out the window where Jack is talking with Kendall. "How long has she been asleep?"
"An hour or so." Will answers. "Its been hard keeping her inside. She's not used to being cooped up."
"I know."
"At least she's had Marshall to entertain her." Will muses
"We'll be here for a while. Tomorrow we'll take her back to the house."
"The house here?"
Sark nods, "She'll be more comfortable there."
"What about Francie?"
"We'll figure that out later." Sark gently strokes Ava's hair.
CHAPTER 26 NEXT MORNING: HOUSE "Francie" Will calls as they walk into the living room.
Francie walks into the living room to find Will, Jack, Sark, and Ava standing there. "If you guys are here where's Sydney?"
"Ava why don't we go play so they can talk." Will suggests ushering Ava back to her room.
"What's going on?" Francie demands looking at Jack and Sark warily. "Where's Sydney?"
"She's missing." Jack informs Francie.
"Missing? How's that possible?"
"There's a lot about my daughter you don't know Francie." Jack says softly.
"Sydney doesn't keep secrets from me... unless she has too."
"She had to keep this one." Sark says "She was trying to protect you."
"From what?"
Jack takes a deep breath, "She used to work for the CIA."
"She works for a bank." Francie protests
"Never did." Jack says reluctantly, "Look this is a long and complicated story so sit down"
HOUR LATER Francie paces the floor "She's been keeping this from me for 7 years?!"
Jack nods "She's wanted to tell you but she knew you were safer without knowing the truth."
"And you used to be a wanted terrorist?" Francie looks at Sark.
"Yes."
Francie runs her fingers through her hair, "Where is Sydney then?"
"Last time she was seen was when she was taken out of the house." Sark answers. "We haven't seen her since."
"Who took her?"
"Still figuring that out." Jack lies
"Will knows?"
Jack nods "Has since his arrest."
"And Danny?"
"That's why Sydney didn't want to tell you." Jack answers
"Why tell me now?" Francie demands
"She's missing and we knew you'd be suspicious about not hearing from her." Sark explains
"She wanted to tell you Francie... almost did numerous times but I unfortunately convinced her not too." Jack says reluctantly, "She wanted to keep you safe from the truth... especially after what happened to Daniel. Sydney doesn't have many friends outside of work and she needed that."
Francie nods "This is just... unbelievable." She mutters. "I knew Sydney was keeping secrets but not something like this."
Sark is about to speak when his phone rings. He fishes it out of his pocket and presses talk, "Yes?" He frowns "What do you mean she hasn't been seen or heard from? What about her security? Fine. I'll return soon." He hangs up looking at Jack, "She's nowhere. No one has heard from her. Security that was watching her... nothing."
"Any idea where else she could be?" Jack demands
"No. Look I need to get back before they start a rebellion." He walks back to Ava's room where he finds Will playing with the girl. "Ava"
Seeing the look on Sark's face Will quietly leaves the room. Sark sits on the edge of Ava's bed pulling her onto his lap, "Ava, I need to leave for a while."
"Dad where's Mom?"
"I don't know Ava. Grandpa and I and everyone else are going to look for them but to do that I need to leave for a while."
"I don't want you to go."
"I don't want to go either but to get your Mom and brother back I have to do this."
Ava bites her lip, "I want Mommy."
"I know. I'm going to do anything and everything I can to get them back."
Ava nods "When will you be back?"
"Soon."
"OK" Ava wraps her arms around his neck, "Love you Daddy"
"I love you too." Sark kisses her forehead, "I'm going to find them."
Ava nods
"I will check in every day." Sark promises. "You'll be safe here."
"I want to stay with you Daddy."
"Everything's going to be fine Ava." Sark assures.
THAT NIGHT: HOUSE "Ava phone. Its your Dad." Francie informs the girl.
Ava turns taking the phone, "Dad"
"Hello sweets."
"Where are you?"
"Still in the air. I just wanted to call and say goodnight. Its almost time for you to be in bed."
"Do I have to?"
"Yes. Its 8."
"But I'm not tired."
"Bed."
Ava sighs "OK."
"I'll check in tomorrow night. Don't torment Will or Francie."
"I won't."
"Sleep well."
"Night Daddy."
"Night sweets." Sark hangs up
Ava sets the phone on the table.
"Bed time Ava." Will reminds
"I know." Ava stands walking out of the living room.
"God I hope Sydney and the baby are OK." Francie sighs
"Me too." Will agrees
"For Ava to lose Sydney... thats going to be really hard on the girl."
Will nods "I know. Sark and Jack will do whatever they can to find Sydney and the baby."
"I know."
2 DAYS LATER: CIA "Jack... we have the DNA report back on the bodies." Kendall says
Jack looks up from his work "And?"
Kendall sets the file on Jack's desk, "I'm sorry."
Jack opens the file and reads the report then takes a deep breath. "Are they sure?"
"They ran the tests three times. It's her and Alison Dorne. I'm sorry Jack." Kendall says sympathetically.
"I need to see Irina." Jack says after a moment. "I want her to hear it from me."
"I'll let them know you're on your way down."
Jack nods sitting there he stares at the file open before him. 'My little girl's dead.' He sets his jaw not wanting to cry.
WHILE LATER Jack enters the secure room where Irina's handcuffed to the table dressed in prison greens. He sits across from her.
"Did you find Sydney?" Irina demands. When he doesn't answer she frowns, "Jack? What's going on? Where's Sydney?"
"She's dead." Jack slowly looks at his former wife. "They identified her remains... as well as Dorne's."
Irina stares at Jack, "What? They had orders to stay away from them!"
"Well obviously they didn't give a damn about your orders!" Jack retorts. "She's dead Irina."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. They ran the remains found three times."
Irina looks down, 'My baby's dead. Oh god Sydney.' "Have you told Ava and Sark?"
"No. Sark is out of town. He'll want to tell her himself."
Irina looks at Jack seeing the pain in his eyes she closes her eyes.
"I should go." Jack says after a few minutes of silence. "I have a lot I need to do." He stands starting towards the door.
"Jack"
Stopping Jack looks at her, "Don't Irina. Your too late for anything." He walks out of the room leaving Irina sitting there lost in thought.
COUPLE HOURS LATER Jack picks up the ringing phone, "Your late."
"Kind of hard to get away and call an enemy." Sark says sarcastically.
"You need to get back here."
"Why?" When Jack doesn't answer Sark frowns, "What's going on Jack?"
"They identified the remains."
"Sydney?"
"Yes. Dorne as well as some other people."
Sark takes a deep breath, "Have you told Ava?"
"If you want me to tell her I will but you are her father. She needs to hear this from you Sark."
"I'm on my way back." Sark hangs up.
NEXT EVENING: HOUSE "Where is she?" Sark asks as he enters the house.
"Her bedroom." Will answers as Jack enters behind Sark. "What's going on?"
"We need to talk." Jack says closing the door. He follows Will into the kitchen where Francie is cleaning up.
Francie looks up "Any news?"
Sark enters the bedroom to find Ava sitting on her bed reading. "Ava"
Ava looks up "Daddy" she sets her book aside, "Did you find Mommy?"
Sark takes a deep breath closing the door, "Ava we need to talk." He sits on the bed lifting her onto his lap.
"Daddy what's going on?" Ava asks worried. "Where's Mommy?"
HOUR LATER Sark walks into the living room where he finds Jack looking at pictures of Sydney and Ava. "She cried herself to sleep. Where are Will and Francie?"
"Upstairs." Jack answers "What now?"
"I'm shutting down the organization."
"Sark"
"Look that was the plan anyway. I'm just doing it ahead of time. We have enough to nail all of the leaders."
"We'll discuss this later." Jack says as Will walks into the living room.
"Francie's asleep." Will announces. "How's Ava?"
"Asleep."
"What now?"
"I'm going to look for all who planned this and rip them into pieces." Sark says coldly. He walks out of the room heading back to Ava's bedroom. He sits on the edge of the bed his eyes on Ava as she sleeps tears streaks on her face, 'I'm going to make them hurt for taking them from us. I swear Ava I'll make them pay.'
TBC.
I have to work on Wednesday... so I won't be updating until Thursday.
