Chapter 13: Time Stands Still

A/N: I managed to finish this chapter a little earlier than expected. We'll see what happens with the next few updates. As always, please don't panic if I go over a week between updates.

Thank you to everyone who read and reviewed the story. I am enjoying the PM chats with a lot of you on sharing ideas about the show, or life in general. It is humbling to know the story is engaging and entertaining.

Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles

Shopping was one of Sarah's guilty pleasures. In the past, Sarah was perfectly content to shop alone. Today, Sarah was paired with someone who took shopping to a whole new level. Eleanor Faye Bartowski.

To Sarah, it felt wonderful to engage in a normal activity and feel like an average girl out shopping with a friend.

The two women were practically giddy. After spending the entire morning in the Rodeo Collection, they walked side by side, bags in hand, down the famous street.

It was two days before Christmas. This was the first holiday in Sarah's memory that she was excited about celebrating the holidays. In darker times, the holidays meant the annual Salvation Army con with her father. Now, it was about being "heart-warmed" by the Bartowski's.

The two women were shopping for Ellie's famous holiday party to be held in the Echo Park courtyard on Christmas Eve.

Sarah couldn't decide on her ensemble, so she was glad for Ellie's help. When the two women entered Christian Dior, Ellie's eyes widened when the perfect dress seemed to jump off the rack and into Ellie's hands.

Sarah's eyes widened in shock. Ellie quickly made her case. "Sarah, this will knock Chuck's socks off."

Sarah studied the dress carefully. "It's so…short."

Ellie put a wicked grin on her face. "That's the point, isn't it?"

Sarah bit her bottom lip. "Chuck likes elegant. Classy. Not slutty."

Ellie grinned. "Sarah, it isn't slutty. Edgy, yes. But, not slutty."

Sarah looked Ellie in the eyes. "Really?"

Ellie put a hand on Sarah's arm. "Sarah, we're not buying a dress for a mission. We're buying a dress for you to propose to my brother."

Sarah held the dress up. "I like the neckline. It still looks a little short."

Ellie turned wicked. "Tell you what. I'll wear something short if you wear something short. Deal?"

Sarah gave Ellie a sideways glance. "You're starting to become a bad influence on me."

Ellie smiled. "That's what sisters are for, right?"

Echo Park

Chuck and Morgan were engrossed in Call of Duty. Chuck looked at his watch around the same time his stomach started growling.

Chuck glanced at Morgan. "Hey buddy, how about we take a break and grab a sandwich?"

Morgan nodded, hitting the pause button. "That sounds like a plan. I'm starving."

Chuck sat at the kitchen table and rested his face in his hands. Morgan took stock of his friend and placed the ingredients for a sandwich on the table.

Morgan narrowed his eyes. "Okay, Chuck. The doctor is in."

Chuck sighed. "Do you think it's too soon if I ask Sarah to marry me?"

Morgan's eyes widened. "Chuck…that's a terrible idea!"

Chuck narrowed his eyes. "Why is that terrible?"

Morgan waved his hands animatedly. "You're still in your prime! Once you attach the old ball and chain to your leg, your life is over!"

Chuck rolled his eyes. "Come on, Morgan. There won't be anyone else in my life but Sarah. Why shouldn't Sarah and I be happy?"

Morgan shook his head. "Think about it. I'll call you up for a game night, and it'll be, 'Sorry, Morgan. Sarah wants me to watch a romantic comedy.' You'll be domesticated. No longer a man. The next thing you'll know, you'll be shopping for women's feminine products. Dude, you know how much that section of the store makes me nauseous. It'll be the end of your life as we know it."

Chuck clasped his hands together. "Morgan, we'll still hang out. That's what's bothering you, isn't it?"

Morgan lowered his head. "I guess."

Chuck nodded. "Buddy, listen to me. Just because I want to get married, doesn't mean we can't hang out every now and then."

Morgan raised his eyes. "Really?"

Chuck grinned. "Really. I'm sure Sarah won't mind a game-a-thon every now and then."

The door opened and Devon entered the apartment. "What's up amigos?"

Chuck turned to greet Devon. "Hey, Devon. I take it Ellie informed you she and Sarah are raiding Rodeo Drive?"

Devon glanced at the door conspiratorially. "Indeed. While the ladies shop til they drop, John invited us over for a card game. My shift doesn't start until this afternoon. Interested?"

Chuck shrugged. "Sure."

Morgan rubbed his hands. "Heck yeah!"

Devon grinned. "Chuck, would you mind heading over and helping John set up? Morgan and I will grab some chips."

Chuck nodded. "Sure thing."

Chuck left the apartment and Devon glanced at Morgan. "Well? What did you find out?"

Morgan smiled. "Chuck wants to propose to Sarah."

Devon rubbed his chin. "Interesting. Sounds like a stand-off."

Morgan pulled a notepad from his pocket. "That's not all. He purchased a very expensive ring yesterday. Custom made. I think he's planning to pop the question at the Christmas Eve party."

Devon furrowed his brow. "You think he'll beat Sarah to it?"

Morgan pat Devon on the shoulder. "I don't know. I also found a proposal plan he's been working on. Well, several drafts of a proposal plan. You know as well as I do he'll use that as an excuse to put it off. We gotta boost his confidence, and fast!"

Casey's Apartment

Chuck took a seat and stared at the table in deep thought. Casey and Verbanski were preparing snacks for the card game. Verbanski glanced at Casey and gave him a look. Casey studied Chuck and nodded.

Casey rounded the corner and took a seat across from Chuck, pushing a beer Chuck's way. Chuck took the beer and glanced at it.

Casey broke the silence. "So. I hear you've been shopping for rings?"

Chuck's eyes widened. Casey grunted amused. "Don't act so surprised, moron. We can still track your movements. Gertrude told me it was custom made."

Chuck glanced away in embarrassment. "You think it's too soon, don't you?"

Casey grunted solemnly. "Nope."

Chuck looked astonished. "Really?"

Casey pulled out a cigar and lit it. "You know...I proposed once."

Chuck had a look of awe on his face.

Casey took a puff of his cigar. "I planned this romantic getaway at Niagara Falls. Anyway, things got screwed up. I got orders. I ended up proposing in a bus station in Buffalo. I'll always have that moment, and the look on her face."

Chuck smiled solemnly.

Casey stared Chuck in the eyes. "You don't need some elaborate plan, or the perfect location. All you need is the girl."

Chuck removed the red box from his pocket and opened it, handing it to Casey. "Do you think Sarah will like it?"

Casey studied the ring, grunting impressed.

Verbanski glanced over Casey's shoulder and gave Chuck a wink. "I would."

Chuck nodded. "Thanks, guys."

Verbanski handed the box back to Chuck. "Don't think about it, Chuck. Just take a breath, and do it."

Chuck's phone rang. It was the Buy More.

Chuck sighed. "There goes my day off."

Roarke Instruments

Roarke stared out his window to the courtyard below his office. "Oh, the silent majesty of a winter's morn…the clean, cool chill of the holiday air…an asshole with bad hair, telling me Volkoff put a hit out on me?"

Shaw ignored the jab. "The operative's name is Yuri Gabrienko. He's called the Gobbler. We picked him up at Dulles yesterday morning."

Roarke scoffed. "The Gobbler? What is he, a fucking turkey?"

Shaw took a seat. "He had your dossier in his luggage. The CIA has a file on Gabrienko. He's one of Volkoff's top assassins."

Roarke grinned. "What's his specialty? He breaks in, screams 'gobble, gobble,' then you die from laughter?" Roarke let out a goofy laugh.

Shaw handed Roarke a file. "He was sloppy. He had your file in his carry-on."

Roarke waved a hand. "I thought you were gonna tell me he got busted for impersonating a wild bird."

Shaw stared off to the side in boredom. "He's a cannibal, Roarke."

Roarke scrunched his nose. "You mean I was going to be this nut-job's Christmas dinner? That's disgusting!"

Shaw gave Roarke a flat look. "Well, now, he'll be eating whatever they serve at a black site. We're debriefing him as we speak."

Roarke nodded. "Well, good luck with Hannibal Lecter, Danny Boy. Thanks for the info. I'll send you a fruit cake."

Shaw stood and walked to the door.

Roarke shook his head. "This has turned into the hap, hap, happiest Christmas since Bing Crosby tap-danced with Danny fucking Kaye.,

Somewhere in Downtown Los Angeles, Late Afternoon

Frost tracked Shaw from Roarke Instruments to a diner in downtown LA. She recognized the man Shaw was meeting as Decker.

Frost picked up her phone and dialed Orion. "Stephen, it's me. You're not going to believe who is pulling Fulcrum's puppet strings."

Orion furrowed his brow. "Who?"

Frost seethed. "Decker."

Orion slammed his fist on his desk. "That mother…"

Frost interrupted. "Stephen James Bartowski!"

Orion smiled sheepishly. "Sorry, dear."

Frost rolled her eyes. "I'm activating the surveillance now. Are you receiving them?"

Decker and Shaw's voices crackled to life on Orion's computer. "I've got 'em, Mary."

Decker addressed Shaw. "Your target is Chuck Bartowski. I want you to use Mauser. He's my contact in the LAPD. He'll make it look like a robbery gone wrong."

Shaw narrowed his eyes. "How am I supposed to draw Bartowski out in the open? Remember what happened with Roberts."

Decker grinned. "Mauser tells me Bartowski is now the Regional Manager for this tech support service ran by the Buy More. Mauser will ask for Bartowski to assist with an investigation and pull video from a Christmas tree farm the store services."

Shaw nodded. "Why take him out? Doesn't our contact in Latin America have plans to turn Larkin?"

Stephen muttered. "Rat bastards."

Stephen looked through the CIA database for Bryce's orders. He found the orders and gasped.

Stephen spoke quickly. "Mary, Bryce Larkin has been assigned to take down Augusto Gaez. Gaez must be the contact they're referring to. They must think Bryce is still the Intersect."

Decker grinned. "The Elders want Bartowski terminated in the hopes of drawing Orion out of hiding."

Shaw shrugged. "Orders are orders."

Decker held up a finger. "One more thing. Stay close and make sure it's done. I don't want any surprises this time, Shaw."

Decker checked his watch. "You leave immediately. The address is 1517 Rosewood Lane. Mauser has already contacted Bartowski. He should be arriving at the farm shortly."

Frost sighed heavily. "Stephen, can you find anything on Mauser?"

Orion smiled. "I'm sending his picture to your phone now."

Frost glanced at her phone and studied Mauser's picture carefully.

Frost started her car. "I need you to alert Chuck's protective detail. I'll follow Shaw."

Orion sighed. "Be careful. I'll call Sarah Walker."

Rodeo Drive

Sarah and Ellie were loading their bags into Sarah's Porsche when Sarah received a call. Sarah furrowed her brow when "Unknown Caller" appeared on her phone.

Sarah answered the call. "Walker."

Orion spoke quickly. "Agent Walker, listen to me very carefully. Chuck is in danger. I need you to get to 1517 Rosewood Lane. There is a tree farm called Holiday Trees. This Lieutenant Mauser who contacted Chuck earlier is a Fulcrum implant inside the LAPD. He's going to assassinate Chuck."

Sarah quickly got in the car, motioning for Ellie to do the same. Her tone turned icy. "Who the hell is this, and how do I know this isn't a trap?"

Orion sighed. "Agent Walker, my name is Orion. Call Diane Beckman. She knows who I am. You have to hurry!"

Orion disconnected the call and Sarah glanced at Ellie. "Ellie, put on your seatbelt."

Sarah slammed the car into gear, peeling out of the parking spot.

Ellie's eyes widened. "Sarah, what's going on?"

Sarah replied curtly. "Chuck is in danger. The service call he called me about earlier is compromised."

Sarah called Beckman. "This is Agent Sarah Walker. Authorization Alpha, Tango, Sierra, Two, Seven, Seven, Niner,"

The call center at the NSA immediately patched Sarah to Beckman.

Beckman answered quickly. "Walker, what's going on?"

Sarah answered calmly. "Code Black, General. Chuck's service call at 1517 Rosewood Lane is compromised. Lieutenant Mauser of the LAPD is Fulcrum."

Beckman checked her computer. "Agent Verbanski is with Mr. Bartowski. I'm texting Colonel Casey now. Walker, how did you find this out? The LAPD cleared this."

Sarah turned the car on a busy freeway and floored it. "Someone named Orion."

Beckman gasped. "Are you positive?"

Sarah furrowed her brow. "General, what the hell is going on!?"

Beckman answered quickly. "I'll explain later. Listen to me, if Orion contacts you again, do exactly as he instructs! Am I understood?"

Sarah replied quickly. "Is he an agent?"

Beckman sighed. "No. A scientist. Sarah…Orion developed the Intersect. He's one of ours."

Sarah swerved between several cars while Ellie hung on for dear life. "Understood. Walker out."

Holiday Trees

Chuck and Verbanski met Mauser shortly before dark. Mauser met Chuck with a smile and a handshake.

"You must be the surveillance expert. Lieutenant Mauser, LAPD. My people tell me you're the best."

Chuck smiled, shaking Mauser's hand. "I wouldn't believe everything you hear, Lieutenant Mauser. Just glad I could help. Please, call me Chuck."

Mauser turned to Verbanski. "And who is this charming lady?"

Verbanski gave a flat smile. "I'm Verbanski, one of Mr. Bartowski's quality control experts."

Mauser smiled. "Well, I think you'll find everything in order, Ms. Verbanski."

Verbanski scanned the area for threats. "I certainly hope I will, Lieutenant Mauser."

Mauser motioned for the building. "Right this way, Chuck."

Chuck nodded at Verbanski, who gave a small wink. Verbanski decided to wait outside the door of the small office. She could maintain a visual on Chuck while scanning the farm for threats.

After a few minutes, Verbanski received a text from Casey alerting her Mauser is Fulcrum. She subtly placed the hand in the small of her back, gripping her S&W 1911.

Verbanski didn't have time to react when the tranq dart embedded in her neck. She fell to the ground in a heap.

Shaw approached and pulled his H&K handgun, but quickly holstered it when a family pulled up to the farm. He moved Verbanski around the back of the small building to an alley. He placed Verbanski next to a dumpster.

Shaw grinned at the unconscious agent. "Today is your lucky day. That family just saved your life."

Shaw scanned the area and made his way back into the tree farm, posing as a customer.

Shaw didn't notice a middle-aged brunette slip into the alley. Frost made her way to Verbanski and checked her pulse. Frost drew her Beretta, attaching a suppressor.

Frost keyed her mic. "I have a visual on Shaw. He just took out Chuck's security. How soon will back-up arrive?"

Orion typed feverishly on his computer. "They're 2 minutes out, Mary."

One Block from Holiday Trees

Sarah slammed on the brakes, forcing the Porsche to a complete stop.

Sarah glanced quickly at Ellie, giving a two-word command. "Let's go!"

Agent Dunwoody stood with arms crossed in the alley Sarah instructed her to meet.

Sarah made her way to Ellie, placing her hands on her arms. "You're leaving with Victoria. I'm going after Chuck."

Ellie narrowed her eyes. "No, Sarah! That's my brother we're talking about! I'm staying!"

Sarah huffed in frustration. "Alright. You're staying right here with Victoria."

Sarah glanced at Victoria. "Ellie does not move from this location. Is that understood?"

Victoria approached Ellie, placing an arm around her. "Yes, Ma'am."

Victoria pulled Ellie to her Suburban. "Don't worry, Ellie. We'll get Chuck out of there."

Sarah walked to her trunk and opened a weapons case, taking a few extra magazines for her S&W 5906, a suppressor, and extra knives. She also grabbed her vest, quickly putting it on. Sarah grabbed a spare vest, walking over to where Ellie was seated in Victoria's Suburban.

Sarah handed Ellie the vest. "Put this on. Dunwoody, are you wearing your vest?"

Dunwoody glanced up from checking the magazine of her Glock 19. "Yes, Ma'am."

Ellie grabbed Sarah's wrist. "Sarah, be careful."

Sarah took a breath. "Don't worry, Ellie. We do this sort of thing all the time."

As Sarah made her way towards the tree farm, Ellie muttered under her breath. "That's what concerns me."

Holiday Trees

Chuck finished downloading the surveillance video Mauser requested and handed Mauser a disk. Mauser smiled and thanked Chuck.

Mauser opened the door for Chuck. "Thanks for doing this, Chuck. I'll walk you to your car."

Chuck exited the building and glanced around for Verbanski. "Huh. I wonder where Verbanski went."

Mauser smiled. "Ah, there's a coffee shop across the street. She probably decided to grab a cup. Boy, I could use one myself. Tell you what, I'll buy you a cup. It's the least I could do for dragging you out this late in the day."

Chuck nodded, but quickly activated his alert tracker on his watch. "That's very kind of you, Lieutenant."

Mauser led Chuck through the middle of the tree farm, pausing when he was certain no other customers were in the farm. He turned and shook his head, drawing his handgun and pointing it at Chuck.

"There's just one problem, Chuck. You won't be enjoying any more cups of coffee."

Chuck quickly raised his hands. "Wha…what's going on?"

Mauser smiled. "You see, we know you're working with Bryce Larkin, Chuck. My people think you're a liability."

Chuck backed away. Mauser moved closer, his handgun pointed at Chuck's chest.

Chuck stammered nervously. "Wait! Maybe, uh, maybe we can work something out? I mean, Bryce is kind of a sore spot for me right now, and, and it is the holidays after all!"

Mauser grinned. "I am sorry about this, Chuck."

Mauser lowered his weapon and smiled. "You know what, kid? I like you. Instead of shooting you and having you bleed out, tell you what. I'll put one in the old melon. You won't feel a thing. Like you said, it's the holidays."

Chuck muttered. "Nice to see even bad guys have a little Christmas spirit."

Mauser raised his weapon. "Happy Holidays, kid."

Chuck closed his eyes and waited for darkness. Instead, Mauser dropped in front of him. Chuck opened one eye and gasped. The front of Mauser's head had a large, gaping hole.

Chuck felt a grip on his arm. "Let's go, Chuck! Come with me if you want to live!"

Chuck's eyes widened. "Mom?"

Mary cursed when she felt the tranq dart embed in her neck. She barely got out, "Run!" before collapsing.

Chuck, remembering his training, ducked and took cover. He heard gunshots and quickly raised his face to see a figure with weapon raised, walking toward Sarah. Sarah was on the ground, gasping for air.

Chuck screamed, "SARAH!"

Shaw grabbed Sarah by the hair, lifting her to her feet. He grinned sadistically. "You wore your vest. Smart. So, you're the bitch that killed my wife?"

Sarah's hands grabbed Shaws hands on impulse as he gripped a handful of Sarah's hair. She struggled to breathe, knowing the bullets absorbed by her vest were above her ribs."

The moment Chuck saw Shaw's face, he flashed.

Agent Daniel Shaw, Central Intelligence Agency

Currently assigned to Special Activities Division, special task force to investigate unknown organization aligned with Fulcrum.

Chuck glanced at his mother, ignoring the questions bombarding his mind. He picked up her Beretta, and quickly checked the magazine and firing chamber, just like Casey taught him.

Chuck watched in horror as Shaw backhanded Sarah, then punched her in her stomach. Shaw yanked her head back, placing the muzzle of his weapon to Sarah's temple.

Chuck took a deep breath. He heard Casey through the microphone in his watch.

"Bartowski, Walker, Verbanski! What's going on? I'm at the tree farm! What's your status!?"

Chuck hid and whispered into his watch. "Casey! A CIA agent named Shaw has Sarah! Mauser is dead, my mom is here, and I'm holding my mom's gun!"

Casey grunted. "Stop babbling, idiot! Where are you?"

Chuck looked back at Sarah. "I'm conceiled! Casey, hurry! Shaw is going to kill Sarah!"

Casey replied calmly. "Bartowski, listen to me. Remember what I taught you. You have to take him out. I won't make it in time."

Chuck shook his head. "No, no, no, no…Casey, I can't!"

Casey spoke with authority. "Remember your training! Go through the count, just like we drilled! It's time to cowboy the fuck up, Bartowski!"

Chuck turned just as Shaw violently put Sarah on her knees. She was still struggling to breathe. Shaw grabbed Sarah by the hair and put the muzzle of the weapon behind her head, cocking the hammer.

Chuck took a steady breath, quickly removed the suppressor from the Beretta, and left cover. Chuck walked swift, but silent, going over the steps Casey taught him in his mind.

One. Assume a firing stance.

Chuck paused several feet away, taking the Beretta in both hands.

Two. Identify your target.

Chuck assumed Shaw would be wearing a vest, and knew removing the suppressor would give the weapon in his hands more stopping power. He remembered Casey's methodical instructions. Aim small, miss small. Center-mass shots. Engage the target until the target is no longer a threat.

Three. Ready your weapon.

Chuck clicked off the safety. The sound got Shaw's attention.

Shaw raised his weapon at Chuck, then lowered his weapon when he saw the fear in Chuck's eyes.

Shaw grinned. "You don't have it in you. I'm not unreasonable. I'll let you watch her die first, then I'll kill you."

Chuck shook his head. "You can't do this! Back-up is on the way! They'll be here in seconds! There's nowhere to go!"

Shaw gave Chuck a sadistic look. "Doesn't matter. You both will be dead by the time they get here."

Sarah regained her composure and screamed out in horror. "CHUCK, NO!"

Shaw glanced down and saw the fear in Sarah's eyes. "Ah, I see now."

Shaw leaned close to Sarah's ear. "I'll let you watch me kill him first. You took something from me, I'll take something from you."

Sarah struggled. "I'll kill you, you bastard!"

Shaw smacked Sarah behind her head with his handgun. Chuck raised his weapon.

Chuck spoke in a seething tone. "Do that again, asshole, and I won't hesitate."

Shaw smiled. "No, Chuck. You will, but I won't." Shaw raised his weapon at Chuck.

Sarah screamed. "NOOOOO!"

Four. Engage the target until the target is no longer a threat.

Chuck swiftly leveled the Beretta on Shaw.

Time stood still. Chuck's eyes focused. His finger squeezed the trigger on impulse. Chuck advanced on his target, re-centering the sights on Shaw's chest after feeling the recoil of the weapon...over and over. Round after round slammed into Shaw's chest.

Chuck knew the Beretta M9 carried a 15-round magazine and one round in the firing chamber. Chuck counted 8 rounds before ceasing fire. Shaw's body lay motionless on the ground, with the exception of a few twitches. The dark, wet spots on Shaw's blue shirt told Chuck what he needed to know. Shaw wasn't wearing a vest.

Chuck swallowed hard, feeling the anguish hit his heart like an anvil. The hot rounds in Shaw's chest mixed with the cool air, causing steam to rise from the gaping holes in Shaw's chest.

Chuck's hands started shaking. He didn't notice when Sarah gently took the Beretta from his hands. He also didn't notice he was on his knees. His vision now blinded by the tears streaking down his face.

Sarah's voice struggled against the ringing in his ears. He blinked heavily when Sarah's eyes met his.

"Chuck! Chuck, oh my God!"

Casey rounded the corner with weapon raised. He paused at the site before him. Sarah was frantically checking Chuck over for wounds. Shaw lay a few feet away, 8 rounds in his chest.

Casey grunted solemnly. "Dammit!"

Casey scanned the area for threats. Casey approached Shaw and kicked his weapon out of reach. Sarah grabbed Chuck around his ears, pulling his head to her chest. Sarah glanced back at Casey, giving a nod. Casey then fired a single round into Shaw's head.

Verbanski came around the corner of the alley, swaying slightly, with her weapon gripped in her hand. Casey noticed Verbanski and ran towards her.

Casey grabbed Verbanski around the waist, putting her arm around his shoulder. "Are you hit?"

Verbanski answered groggily. "Bastard shot me with a damn tranq dart!"

Casey grunted in relief. "Glad you're okay. You'll have one hell of a headache."

Verbanski took in the view before her. "What happened, John?"^

Casey took a breath. "Ambush. Mauser is back there. Someone used his brains for tree ornaments."

At this point, Sarah had Chuck in a tight embrace, rocking him back and forth. The faint sound of Chuck sobbing could be heard."

Verbanski motioned to Shaw. "Sarah's handiwork?"

Casey sighed heavily. "No. Bartowski's."

Verbanski shot Casey a look. "Holy Mary Mother of God."

Chuck kept muttering, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry," between sobs. Sarah cooed Chuck lovingly.

Sarah took Chuck's face in her hands. "Chuck, listen to me. You didn't have a choice. You did the right thing."

Chuck shook his head. "I killed him, Sarah!"

Sarah spoke with conviction. "Chuck…you saved me."

Chuck's eyes met Sarah's. He replied in almost a whisper. "I couldn't let him hurt you."

Sarah spoke calmly. "I know, sweetie."

Sarah glanced at Casey. "Casey, we need to get him out of here."

Casey nodded. "We need Ellie."

Sarah closed her eyes. "Okay."

Casey keyed his mic. "Alpha team, secure the perimeter! Both VIPs will be in the tree farm! Lock it down, people! If anybody attempts to breach this perimeter, light their ass up!"

Casey took a breath. "Dunwoody, bring in Doc." Doc was Ellie's call-sign.

Dunwoody drove the Suburban to the edge of the farm. Ellie bolted from the passenger seat when she saw Chuck and Sarah cuddled together on their knees.

Ellie slid next to the couple, speaking with authority. "Anybody hurt?"

Sarah met Ellie's eyes. "No. Chuck's breathing is erratic."

Ellie studied Chuck carefully. "He's hyperventilating. Okay, lay him down."

Ellie took Chuck's face in her hands. "Chuck, listen to me! You have to get control of your breathing!"

Chuck's head bobbled erratically as his breathing increased. Ellie ran her hands around Chuck's body, but felt no wounds.

Ellie glanced at Sarah. "Sarah, we need a bag!"

Sarah nodded. "Okay." Sarah ran to locate a bag.

Ellie spoke to Chuck with authority. "Chuck, look at me, sweetie! Look in my eyes! You're going to be fine! You have to calm down!"

Chuck looked Ellie in the eyes and pointed to a clump of trees, forcing out in labored breaths. "Ellie, Ellie, Mom…"

Ellie narrowed her eyes. "What did you say?"

Chuck took a deep breath, then exhaled. "Mom." He pointed to where Frost lay unconscious.

Casey narrowed his eyes. "I'll check it out."

Casey made his way around the corner and found Frost behind a cart. He checked her pulse.

Casey stood and spoke to Ellie. "Ellie, there's an unknown female back here."

Sarah arrived with a brown bag and placed it to Chuck's mouth, helping him regain control of his breathing.

Ellie walked around the corner and froze, putting a hand to her mouth. "Oh my God! That's our mom!"

White House Oval Office

President Levy hung up the phone and closed his eyes in relief. One of his aides knocked, then opened the door.

"Mr. President, the First Lady would like to see you."

President Levy smiled. "Send her in."

Yvonne Levy stormed past the aid to her husband. "I came as soon as I heard. Is everyone alright?"

The President stood, placing his hands gently on his wife's arms. "They're fine. I'm very worried about Chuck right now. He had to use lethal force to save Sarah."

Yvonne covered her mouth with her hand. "Oh, Chuck."

President Levy nodded. "Don't worry, honey. I just got off the phone with General Beckman. She's going to set Chuck up with a CIA psychiatrist. We will do everything we can to make sure he's okay."

Yvonne blinked tears from her eyes. "He saved Sarah?"

The President smiled sadly. "From a rogue CIA agent. It seems you were right. There is nothing those two won't do to protect each other."

Yvonne covered her hand with her heart. "I want us to fly out there. Tomorrow. I want to treat them to a nice, family holiday meal. Zach, I know you asked me to stay out of this, but I am very emotionally attached to this since you told me about those two. We need to do everything we can for them."

President Levy nodded. "I'll cancel our trip to Camp David."

Yvonne nodded determined. "Good. By the way, a little birdy whispered in my ear something about a proposal? Do you know anything about that?"

The President furrowed his brow, holding up a finger. "How did…oh, never mind. Does everyone around here know about Chuck Bartowski and Sarah Walker?"

Yvonne approached her husband, toying with his tie with a mischievous grin on her face. "Zach. Sweetheart. Their story was going to get out eventually. Don't worry, no one is leaking this to the public or anyone outside these walls. I mean, this is like a fairytale. We all want a happy ending."

President Levy rolled his eyes. "I didn't realize I had the Brothers Grimm on my staff."

Yvonne kissed her husband gently on the lips. "You could use some down time around good company. You've been working too hard lately."

The President smiled softly at his wife. "What would I do if I didn't have you taking care of me?"

Yvonne gave a coy smile. "Hmm. Well, you would probably show up to work every day wearing a Star Wars t-shirt and Converse Chuck Taylor's."

A knock interrupted the President and the First Lady. The door opened to General Marcus, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs.

The General stood at attention. "My apologies for the intrusion at this hour, Mr. President, Mrs. Levy."

Yvonne gave her husband a quick peck on the lips and turned to leave. "I'll put the kids to bed. Good evening, General."

The General turned and opened the door for the First Lady, nodding. "Ma'am."

President Levy motioned for a chair. "Come in, General."

General Marcus sat and took a breath. "Mr. President, you're not going to believe this. We found Orion, or rather he found us."

The President's eyes widened. "That's great! Where is he?"

General Marcus answered solemnly. "In Burbank. Mr. President…Orion is Chuck and Ellie Bartowski's father."

President Levy's mouth widened in shock. "Chuck me!"

Echo Park

Sarah's mind was reeling. She was worried sick about Chuck. Add Chuck's mom turning out to be a rogue CIA agent to the equation, Sarah was a ticking time bomb.

Then, there was the icing on the cake. The man who developed the Intersect is Stephen J. Bartowski, code name Orion. Chuck and Ellie's father.

Chuck hadn't said a word on the ride home. He didn't say a word during the debriefing with Beckman. Chuck went straight to the bathroom, took a hot shower, and was now laying on his side with Sarah wrapped protectively around him.

Chuck acknowledged Sarah when she wrapped herself around him by interlacing his hand with her own.

Ellie was also worried about Chuck, but she was also in complete disarray over finding out her parents were back. Casey took Mary into custody, and Stephen agreed to turn himself in with his wife.

Ellie was sitting on the sofa, staring ahead in deep thought when Casey and Verbanski entered the apartment.

Casey grunted solemnly. "How's the kid, Ellie?"

Ellie answered in a flat tone. "Physically, he's fine. I just don't know what this will do to him."

Verbanski took a seat next to Ellie. "Ellie, Chuck did what he had to do. He didn't have a choice."

Ellie nodded, replying almost above a whisper. "I know. I'm proud of him. He saved Sarah."

Ellie turned and looked Verbanski in the eyes. "How do you do it?"

Verbanski knew Ellie's meaning. "We have the benefit of training, Ellie. We learn to compartmentalize and put it behind us."

Ellie shook her head. "That's the problem. Chuck will never be able to compartmentalize this."

Verbanski nodded. "Then he needs to face the cold, hard reality. The guy he took out would have killed him and Sarah both. Without batting an eye."

Casey took the recliner next to the sofa. "Ellie…Bartowski's stronger than any of us give him credit for. He can handle this."

Ellie stared Casey in the eyes. "And if he can't?"

Casey made eye contact with Ellie. "Then he has all of us to pick him up and put him back on his feet again."

Ellie nodded. "Casey, where are my parents?"

Casey leaned forward. "They're being debriefed in Castle. It's the safest place for them."

Ellie sighed heavily. "Is my mom really a rogue CIA agent?"

Casey lowered the tone of his voice. "We don't know all the facts yet, but that appears to be the case."

Ellie stared ahead. "I never pictured her as a traitor."

Casey sighed. "Ellie, like I said, we don't know all the facts yet."

Tears formed in Ellie's eyes. "I want to see them."

Casey nodded. "Alright. I'll set it up. I'm sure Beckman will agree."

Ellie whispered softly. "Thank you."

Verbanski put a comforting hand on Ellie's arm. "We need to work on a cover story for Devon. When will his shift be over?"

Ellie glanced at her watch distractedly. "Uh…he won't be home until tomorrow morning. He has the late shift."

Verbanski nodded. "Come on. I'll take you home. You need sleep, Ellie. Agent Dunwoody will stay with you tonight."

Ellie stood, glancing towards Chuck and Sarah's room. "I want to talk to Chuck first."

Ellie walked into Chuck and Sarah's bedroom. Sarah turned and smiled at Ellie. Ellie smiled sadly, walking around the bed. She knelt in front of Chuck.

Ellie smiled at her brother. Chuck stared in her eyes like a lost child. It broke Ellie's heart seeing her brother so devastated.

Ellie brushed Chuck's hair. "I know you feel guilty about what happened tonight…but you shouldn't."

Chuck took a breath and spoke barely above a whisper. "I'm a murderer."

Sarah climbed over Chuck to make eye contact. "Sweetie, you're not a murderer."

Ellie took a breath, speaking with calm authority. "Chuck, stop it. The last thing you are is a murderer. I don't ever want to hear that word escape your mouth ever again."

Tears welled in Chuck's eyes. Ellie grabbed his face. "Chuck, you saved Sarah. What you did was very brave. That man would have killed you both. Do you think that I would want to go on the rest of my life without you and Sarah? Think about Sarah, she was in danger. You did what you had to do."

Chuck took a breath and lifted himself to a seating position. Ellie and Sarah each took one of his hands, with Sarah sitting beside him.

Ellie smiled sadly. "Don't let this change you, Chuck. Don't think for one second that this will change you. You are still the same amazing guy that Sarah and I love."

Chuck lowered his head as tears streaked down his face. "It just hurts so bad, El."

Sarah took Chuck's head, nestling him against her chest. Chuck clung to Sarah and cried softly in anguish.

Ellie stood and wrapped her arms around Sarah and Chuck. "I know it hurts, sweetie. You will heal, I promise."

Chuck took a deep breath. "He was going to kill you, Sarah. I, I couldn't let that happen."

Sarah kissed Chuck on his head. "I know. I am so proud of you. What you did was very, very brave. I am right here. I won't let you face this alone. I love you so much, Chuck."

Chuck took a breath. "I love you too, Sarah."

Castle

Stephen and Mary were both exhausted. After spending hours going over everything from Project Isis to the Intersect with Beckman, all three were weary.

Beckman shook her head in frustration. "Stephen, why didn't you report what happened to Hartley? We could have avoided all this."

Stephen furrowed his brow. "Diane, who was I supposed to report to? The project was compromised."

Beckman sighed. "Stephen, we had our most trusted people working on Omaha."

Stephen shook his head. "Decker and Quinn weren't trustworthy. Hell, Diane, you know Fulcrum had already infiltrated the CIA and NSA's ranks when we began Omaha!"

Beckman held firm. "You still had an obligation to report this!"

Stephen's nostrils flared. "You're such damn beauracrat, Diane! Still worried about your career! That's why you chickened out and let Mary do all the dirty work when the Intersect fried Hartley's brain!"

Mary chimed in. "Diane, why don't you cut the bullshit and listen to what we are telling you. The Ring is real. Fulcrum is just one part of the Ring. Volkoff was sponsoring them both until recently. Now, they all want the Intersect."

Beckman clasped her hands together. "That doesn't excuse the fact that you both went rogue."

Mary had an incredulous look on her face. "Diane, what happened to you? You used to be the best, that's why we were great partners. What changed? Is this still about Roan?"

Mary closed her eyes when she saw Stephen's shoulders slump dejectedly. She quickly took Stephen's hands. "Stephen, sweetheart, I'm sorry."

Stephen smiled sadly. "It's okay, Mary. You would think by now I wouldn't let that guy get to me anymore."

Mary grabbed her husband's face and declared with conviction. "Stephen Bartowski, I love you. Only you. Roan and I were over before I met you."

Stephen stared in Mary's eyes. "I love you too, Mary. More than anything."

Mary brushed Stephen's hair with her fingers and brushed across his shoulder. "Roan Montgomery isn't half the man you are. Stop feeling second place to him, please."

Stephen nodded. "I'm sorry, Mary."

Mary placed a tender kiss on Stephen's lips. "I haven't been there for you all these years…or our children. I'm so sorry."

Stephen took Mary's hands. "Sweetheart, it wasn't your fault."

Beckman glanced away and took a breath. "Mary, I want your word of honor as my friend, that you are not a rogue agent working for Alexei Volkoff."

Mary stared Beckman in the eyes. "I am not a traitor, Diane. You can stick me in a hole and torture me until the next Ice Age if that's what it takes."

Beckman nodded. "I believe you. But Mary, this has created one hell of a mess. I'm going to need you on this."

Beckman glanced at Stephen. "I miss the counsel of my best friend, Stephen. I know I haven't supported you the way I should have. I am sorry. I need your help."

Stephen stared Beckman in the eyes. "I shouln't have called you a beauracrat. What do you need us to do, Diane?"

Beckman smiled. "What you both do best. If Fulcrum, the Ring, and Volkoff want a fight, I say we give them one."

Mary gripped Stephen's hand. "Then we'll give them one they won't survive."

Beckman nodded. "I suppose you both would like to see your children. I'll make sure that happens. Colonel Casey has already informed me Ellie wants to see you. I want you both to remain in Castle for your own safety."

Mary looked concerned. "Diane, is Chuck alright?"

Beckman glanced off to the side. "Only time will tell. Agent Walker informed me he hasn't spoken a word since tonight's incident. He will receive the best care we can give him. I have him meeting with our best psychiatrist, Dr. Leo Dryfus, tomorrow morning."

Stephen chimed in. "I know Leo, Chuck will be in good hands. Diane, what about Decker, Shaw, and Quinn? They're not the only implants in the CIA."

Beckman nodded. "I've already contacted Jane Bentley to start looking into her agents. She's the new Director of the NCS. I trust Jane. I don't trust Director Hardy. He's more politician than spy. But, we do have the advantage, which brings me to my next point."

Beckman leaned forward. "There is one person who I feel will decide the outcome of this fight."

Stephen looked curious. "Who might that be?"

Beckman replied with determination. "Chuck."

Undisclosed Location, Los Angeles

Marco dialed Volkoff's number, waiting patiently for an answer.

Volkoff answered with a sleepy tone. "What is it, Marco?"

Marco answered promptly. "We have a problem, Mr. Volkoff. Well, two problems. Yuri was picked up by the CIA at Dulles."

Volkoff turned angry. "Dammit! He has Hydra on him! How did this happen?"

Marco answered in a flat tone. "He was sloppy, Mr. Volkoff. He had Roarke's dossier visible in his luggage. This alerted Roarke's friends in the CIA."

Volkoff slammed his fist on his desk. "Alright. You said there were two problems."

Marco gulped. "Frost has been captured by the CIA."

Marco held the phone away from his ear while Volkoff ranted angrily. After calming himself, Volkoff addressed Marco.

"I don't care who you have to bribe or kill to find out where Frost is being held. Once you determine her location, I will handle this personally."

Marco nodded. "Yes, Mr. Volkoff."

Volkoff smiled sadistically. "We have just declared war, Marco."

A/N: No, I'm not an expert on fashion. That's what wives and Google is for. LOL

I decided to throw in some humor considering how intense this chapter ended up. I couldn't resist conjuring up a little bit of Clarke Griswold in Roarke's character. Gotta love Chevy Chase.

For the life of me, I will never understand how Shaw survived the shooting in Paris. Nobody survives multiple rounds to the chest. Even if he did, he would have drowned. He won't be returning in this story.

Next Chapter…Winter comes to Burbank…The Ice Queen and the Frost Queen.