Chapter 25: Take On Me

A/N: My apologies for the delay. I wanted to take my time with this chapter.

I hope everyone enjoyed the Holiday Season. My thanks to everyone who took the time to review the story. I am sorry for not catching up on reviews, but I do thank all of you.

Alright, we are now in the final arc of the story. I do plan to take my time with the remaining chapters just to ensure things fall into place.

Castle

Chuck swaggered down the hallway grinning like a fool. Sarah exited her dressing room and met Chuck in the hallway, giggling.

Sarah's eyes started at Chuck's shoes, and stopped at his eyes. "Wow. You look just like him."

Chuck rubbed his face. "Is your mask itchy?"

Sarah popped Chuck's hand. "Don't scratch it. It will take over an hour to make a new mask. We don't have a lot of time."

Sarah noticed the twinkle in Chuck's eyes. "Even with a mask, you're still gorgeous."

Sarah smiled, and kissed Chuck softly on the lips. Chuck furrowed his brow. "This is so weird. I feel like I'm cheating on you…with you."

The comment elicited a playful glare. "Are you telling me you find the First Lady attractive?"

Chuck stammered. "Uh...no! No! I...I didn't mean it that way."

Sarah winked. "Gotcha."

A lop-sided smile formed on Chuck's face. "Very funny. All kidding aside, I suppose this is what we'll look like in 20 years. By the way, you'll be beautiful."

Sarah furrowed her brow. "Honey, get real. I won't look anything like the First Lady in 20 years."

Chuck smiled. "You're right. You'll be prettier."

Sarah gave Chuck a coy smile. "Nice save. I think you'll look even more handsome in 20 years."

Chuck replied dryly. "Please. I'll be fat and bald."

Sarah rested her hands on Chuck's chest. "Uh, uh. We are going to eat right and exercise. I want our…love life to last a very, very long time. I am going to work your ass off in the years to come."

Chuck smiled. "Doesn't it strike you strange that the President and First Lady bear a striking…well, almost scary resemblance to us?"

Sarah shook her head. "Sorry. I just don't see it. I will admit there are a few similarities, but we're not clones." Wow. I have watched one too many sci-fi movies. Alright Chuck, you're restricted to action thrillers and romantic comedies for the foreseeable future.

Chuck raised a finger, but was interrupted when Casey appeared in the hallway, with a perplexed look on his face.

Sarah narrowed her eyes. "Problem?"

Casey muttered. "Weird."

Sarah rolled her eyes. "Not you too."

Casey grunted in amusement. "The real President and First Lady have arrived."

Zondra, Carina, and Verbanski appeared from around the corner, dressed in pant suits.

Carina smirked. "Madam First Lady. How does it feel to be the protectee instead of protector for a change?"

Sarah smiled, removing a knife and her handgun. "Well, this protectee doesn't need protecting."

Bower appeared from around the corner, tugging on his tie.

Casey motioned to Bower. "Grab the holster and earpiece from the table."

Bower turned to retrieve his weapon and earpiece.

Chuck noticed the down look on Bower's face, and walked over.

Chuck smiled. "Nervous?"

Bower nodded. "It's more than that. We're dealing with a nuke. What if we fail?"

Chuck decided to take Bower's mind off the situation. "That won't happen. Trust me on that. Uh, would you tell me about your wife?"

Bower smiled. "She's quite a woman. Graceful. Elegant. Kind-hearted. Loyal. Gorgeous."

Chuck stared at Bower in awe. "Where did you guys meet?"

Bower leaned on the table. "We grew up in the same area just north of Dallas, but from opposite ends of the social circle. My…grandparents were cattle farmers and owned a tractor supply store. I helped out after school, and on the weekends. Stephanie's dad purchased a lawn tractor, and sent her to pay the bill. Even though we attended the same school, that's how we spoke for the first time. Her car broke down in the parking lot, and I gave her a lift home. We started out as friends…but we ended up becoming much more than that. My mom was battling cancer at the time, and the store wasn't doing well, so I started working late to help Grandpaw fix tractors, and things like that. I wanted to ask her to the prom…but somebody else beat me to it. I was devastated. So, I decided not to go."

Bower glanced away thoughtfully. "On prom night, I was sweeping the sidewalk in front of the store, and she appeared out of nowhere. She looked so beautiful, but she was crying. I asked her what was wrong, and she confessed that she wanted me to ask her to the prom, but she was scared of what her parents would think. I broke down and told her what she meant to me…and that's when we kissed for the first time. She stared me in the eyes after I told her I was in love with her...and she kissed me. After the kiss, she said it was about time I manned up, because she was in love with me too. We danced right there in the parking lot to some…Glenn Miller song my grandfather put on the speakers."

Chuck smiled in awe. "That's quite a story."

Bower sighed. "We kept our relationship a secret in the beginning. I couldn't afford college, so I joined the Navy. Grampaw served in the Navy during World War II, and I was always fascinated by his stories. Stephanie attended the University of Texas and joined a sorority. She emailed me every day, and we would video chat every chance we could. Much to her parent's protest, we were married her senior year, right after my second deployment."

Chuck narrowed his eyes. "Her parents don't like you?"

Bower took a steady breath. "They're nice to me and all…but I had to prove to them I was good enough for their daughter. Her dad and I get along, but her mom keeps her distance."

Chuck shook his head. "I hate snobs."

Bower nodded in understanding. "We somehow made it work. I know she could have done better…but I do everything I can for her, and her family to prove I am at least capable of taking care of her. It's just…hard to do things for people who apparently have everything."

Bower continued solemnly. "Stephanie felt bad for wanting to keep our relationship a secret in the beginning. I didn't mind. I just wanted to be with her. After we were married, she told her mom either accept me, or she will never know her grandchildren. I tried to talk her out of doing that, but she wouldn't have it. She said she was tired of me going out of my way to do things for her mom, and her mom not even acknowledge my presence. I think her father may have intervened, because Miss Ellen learned to tolerate me. I think she was content that Stephanie's younger sister married the son of a Texas Congressman."

Bower smirked. "He is such an asshole."

Chuck laughed softly. "I admire your wife. For the record, I doubt very seriously she could have done better than you."

Bower nodded. "Chuck, if you don't mind me saying this, I really look up to you and Sarah. To hear what the two of you had to go through is inspiring. I only hope I love my wife as much as I see how the two of you love each other. I've come to realize, love is blind, you know? It doesn't matter where two people come from, it only matters where they're going. The key is loving that other person no matter what life throws your way. I don't just love my wife, I respect her. Well, I suppose I practically worship her. She's not just a pretty face, she's a very courageous and considerate woman. She's also very religious and believes in a strong family. Where I come from, God, family, and country means everything."

Chuck replied with conviction. "I'm not particularly religious, but I will say those are respectable values. I really admire how devoted you and your wife are to one another. You two are excellent role models."

Bower had a faraway look. "I'm lucky. I married the woman of my dreams. She's my best friend. When I'm with her...she just makes everything possible. Her eyes are the first thing that got my attention. She has the most beautiful blue eyes, but the thing is…her eyes change shades to match her moods. I could sit and stare in her eyes all day."

Bower gave a coy look. "When she wants something, look out world. I learned that the hard way a time or two. I've never given her cause to be mad at me, but she is very protective of what is her's. She punched a friend of her's in the nose once for calling me a commoner. Not all wealthy people are mean-spirited, but some of them would drown if it rained for having their nose thrown in the air."

Chuck smiled solemnly. "Tell you what. Let's stop these people from trying to blow up the entire West Coast, and then you can get back home to your family. Sarah and I look forward to meeting Stephanie, and your child."

Bower looked determined. "If that radiation made its way to Texas…"

Bower nodded. "Let's get this done, Chuck."

Chuck put a hand on Bower's shoulder. "Sometimes, all we need is a reminder of what we're fighting for."

Bower headed into the armory to retrieve a few extra magazines for his handgun.

Sarah approached Chuck with a smile. "That was sweet of you."

Chuck studied Bower in the armory. "He reminds me a lot of myself. The difference is, he didn't let anything stop him. I can't help but admire that."

Sarah smiled. "Jason is a good man, and his wife sounds like someone I would get along with just fine. But, Chuck, you didn't let anything stop you either."

Castle Conference Room

President Levy and the First Lady stared at Chuck and Sarah in shock. It was like looking in the mirror.

The President chuckled. "Chuck, I would love to have you as a body double. I could skip those boring state dinners, and work on my Call of Duty score."

Chuck smirked. "I'm sure you would."

Beckman arrived minutes later, and the team began the briefing.

Beckman began by addressing Orion. "Orion, have you and Hartley found the device?"

Orion appeared grim. "Not yet. But, thanks to Hartley, Hydra had some interesting facts about the device. It's tied to some sort of harmonic sound detection sensor that will activate the bomb the moment the music starts. It will detonate when the music stops."

Sarah sighed. "So. That just leaves finding the device?"

Orion nodded. "Unfortunately. But, at least we know what to look for."

Chuck furrowed his brow. "Guys, we need to find a way to keep the music going for as long as possible. That should give us enough time to locate, and disarm the device."

Chuck noticed Morgan on one of the monitors with Jeff and Lester, and grinned.

Chuck smiled at the group. "I have an idea…but I don't think anyone is going to like it."

Sarah grinned. "Jeffster?"

Casey scowled. "Aw hell. The fate of the free world now rests in the hands of a bearded idiot, and two perverts."

Inside a Presidential Limo

Bower leaned over to Casey and whispered. "Colonel, I don't know the first thing about posing as a Secret Service Agent."

Casey grunted. "Simple. Pretend you're holding a quarter between your ass cheeks, and act like a prick."

Chuck snorted. "Don't forget the shades."

Sarah spoke reassuringly. "Jason, don't pay these two any mind. I was attached to the Secret Service for a year. Just scan your sectors, and try to identify anything out of place in the crowds. Look for people who appear nervous or suspicious. Use your instincts, stay close to Chuck and I, and be calm. The key is to project a calm presence. Stand tall, and be professional. Okay?"

Bower nodded. "Thanks, Sarah."

Sarah smiled. "You'll do fine."

Zondra nudged Bower's shoulder. "Just follow my lead, and do what I do."

Bower sighed. "Got it."

Sarah glanced at Carina. "Carina, try not to seduce anyone today."

Carina winked. "No promises."

The limo stopped outside the Pacific Concert Hall. Gertrude checked her handgun. "Showtime."

Casey grunted. "Alright, Commander-in-Geek. Let's go find a bomb."

Pacific Concert Hall

Sydney Prince wasn't one for suicide missions, but she realized she had to make an exception in this case. Someone had to remain with the group of hand-picked Ring agents to ensure the success of the mission. The Ring Director, Decker, Vice President Bilden, and the Elders were all safe and sound in a safe house in Virginia, waiting to act.

Prince smiled when the President and First Lady exited the Presidential limo, but scowled when she recognized Casey, tagging along with the Secret Service.

Prince quickly phoned Decker. "Decker, we have a problem. John Casey is with the Secret Service."

Decker scoffed. "Does it matter? As soon as the music starts, the device will activate. Keep your eye on him. If anything is off, find a way to take him out. Quietly. We can't blow this."

Prince rolled her eyes. "Cut the bullshit! Casey's presence means one thing! His team is close by!"

Decker replied sarcastically. "Deal with it, Prince. You're a trained operative, for Christ's sake. Figure it out, and stop whining."

Prince seethed. "Listen, dumbshit! I'm the one who is going to be vaporized with the rest of the imbeciles in this God-forsaken shit-hole! Don't give me that crap! Provide me with back-up, or I'll turn this damn thing off, and walk away! You can be the one to figure it out, you egotistical jackass!"

Decker sighed angrily. "Fine, Princess. I wouldn't want you to chip a nail. Sit tight. Back-up is on the way."

Decker disconnected the call. Prince shoved the phone in her pocket, and blended into the crowd.

Castle

Frost despised being left behind on missions, but she knew right now, her place was at her husband's side.

The President and First Lady monitored the mission with Beckman from Castle's main conference room, while Orion, Hartley, and Frost searched through the Pacific Concert Hall's surveillance for the device. Vivian assisted in the hopes of identifying any Ring operatives. Time was running out as the attendees made their way to their seats. She knew once the music started, the count-down would begin.

Vivian's eyes widened as a dark-haired brunette caught her eye. "Father…I know that woman."

Hartley turned to his daughter. "From where, Vivian?"

Vivian furrowed her brow in deep thought. "I saw her a few times with the Director. I think she is a high-level operative."

Frost keyed her mic. "Listen up, people. Vivian just identified a potential bogey. Sarah, she is at your 3 o'clock."

Sarah glanced to her right, and identified Prince. "I've got her. That's Sydney Prince. She's the one who kidnapped Kathleen and Alex."

Casey grunted. "Prince is mine, Bartowski."

Westlake, Texas

Stephanie Bower was miserable. She was taking deep breaths to manage her sharp pains. The Braxton Hicks contractions she was experiencing placed even more stress on an already stressful situation. She knew her husband was okay, but she never stopped worrying about him.

Althogh miserable, Stephanie lovingly rubbed her bulging stomach, and spoke softly to her unborn child.

"Don't worry, little one. Your daddy is safe. He'll be home soon, I promise. He said to tell you he loves you very much. Mommy loves you too."

Stephanie's mother was still asleep. She knew it was early, but she was starving for any news of her husband.

Stephanie smiled at their last conversation. Jason knew exactly what to say to calm her.

Stephanie focused her attention back to the television, when another news story on the American News Network caught her attention.

In other news, President Levy and the First Lady made a special trip to Dover Air Force Base before departing for the annual Intelligence Summit in Los Angeles. The remains of 7 Sailors killed in the attack on the USS BAINBRIDGE arrived home to be returned to their families for burial with full military honors. The President joined the Secretary of the Navy, and the Chief of Naval Operations to honor the returning servicemen. The President spoke briefly on the incident.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the Sailors who lost their lives in this unfortunate attack. The First Lady and I share your grief during this time of loss. Please know that the American people honors their sacrifice."

According to a Navy spokesperson, the BAINBRIDGE arrived in port at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Mississippi for drydock repairs on Friday. The spokesperson also mentioned the aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE, and the amphibious assault ship USS IWO JIMA joined a number of cruisers and destroyers already operating off Costa Gravas. The Navy and Air Force commenced a second attack on Costa Gravas yesterday, hitting a number of key command and control facilities. The Costa Gravan government has remained silent over the incident, and has not retaliated. Sources could not confirm allegations of a possible coup in Costa Gravas, which was reported shortly after the attack on the BAINBRIDGE.

Costa Gravan Premier Alejandro Goya severed ties with the United States in 1991, after accusing the United States of making an attempt on his life. Those allegations have not been proven. Political analysts have pointed out the possibility of Goya holding democratic elections in the country, after Goya allowed a delegation from the United Nations to visit the country last year.

Stephanie blinked away sad tears after the story, sad for the families of the Sailors killed in the attack, but thankful her husband was safe.

Stephanie's mom entered the living room, and rolled her eyes. "Steph, this isn't healthy for you. Why don't you let me take you shopping today? I saw this gorgeous outfit…"

Stephanie cut her mother off curtly. "Mom, I can hardly move, much less walk around a shopping mall all day. You go ahead. I want to be here if Jason gets to call again. I would rather talk to him at home rather than a crowded shopping mall."

Ellen took a seat and huffed. "Why did you have to marry him? Brandon was a much better choice for you and this family."

Stephanie bore daggers at her mom. "Mother, don't even start with me this morning. I have no regrets about who I married. I married Jason because I love him. He is a loving, honest, and loyal man, and I am proud of him for serving our country. Excuse me that I didn't marry for social and political convenience, to a man who cheats on his wife with half of Dallas! My husband is out there, right now, putting his life on the line for you, Mother! Stop patronizing him!"

Anthony, Stephanie's father, entered the living room. "Ellen, why don't you leave Stephanie alone?"

Ellen waved a hand. "Fine. I'll ask Louisa to prepare breakfast."

Anthony took a seat next to his daughter. "She is right about one thing. It's not healthy sitting here glued to the TV, sweetheart."

Stephanie angrily wiped away tears. "I know, Daddy, but I get so sick of her putting Jason down all the time, when he goes out of his way to be nice to her. It makes me so mad!"

Anthony nodded. "I know, sweetie, I don't like it either. Jason is a good man in my book, and I'm proud to have him as a son-in-law."

Stephanie leaned her head on her father's shoulder. "I wish he could come home, Daddy. I miss him. He tries to put on a brave face when I talk to him, but I can tell not being here when the baby arrives is eating him alive."

Anthony hugged his daughter close. "I know you do, but he has a job to do right now. We could be at war with Costa Gravas at any moment."

Stephanie sighed, not wanting to think about her husband in harm's way. "Well, what's on today's agenda? More boring meetings?"

Anthony grinned. "Unfortunately. I get to listen to our geo-physicists give survey reports on our latest drilling projects. I could have used you yesterday when our partners from Norway visited. Natalie told me she misses your charm."

Stephanie frowned. "Yuck. Natalie needs to work harder. I know she's an introvert, but she can be graceful when she tries. She should have put Ashley on it. She's a pro at finding restaurants, booking hotels, and making visits from our partners enjoyable. She even found a place that prepares haggis when Mr. McDonald visited last year."

Anthony smiled. "I'll be sure to make a note of that. By the way, your sister sent me a text earlier. Mark and his father had to make an urgent trip to Virginia. Grace mentioned she will come by to visit you after she takes care of some errands."

Stephanie smiled. "Good. Maybe I can talk Grace into making her Western-style Panini. This baby has an appetite."

Anthony smirked. "Are you sure it's just the baby?"

Ring Safe House, Falls Church, Virginia

The Director listened intently to his personal assistant provide his morning briefing.

"Mr. Phillips called again this morning. The kidnapping went according to plan, and the family has agreed on a ransom payment. Shall we release the hostage?"

The Director smiled. "No."

The assistant nodded. "Very well, then. Oh, I almost forgot. The contractor we hired for the Sarah Walker assassination hasn't checked in yet. Should I call him?"

The Director frowned. "Absolutely. Tell Mr. Gruber I want her found, and disposed of as soon as possible. She has our Intersect, and I want her eliminated. Is he still in the Los Angeles area?"

The assistant made a note on her legal pad. "We're not sure. His last known location was somewhere in the Midwest. Should I put a deadline on the job?"

The Director sighed. "No, not yet. Rafe Gruber is a patient assassin. Let the man work, Charlotte."

Decker entered the room without knocking. The Director smiled. "What is it, Decker?"

Decker took a seat. "John Casey is with the Secret Service team at the Pacific Concert Hall. I ordered our stand-by team to assist Prince."

The Director glance away thoughtfully. "Is there a way to detonate the device remotely?"

Decker sighed. "No, it was too risky. The harmonic detonator will activate the device the moment the music starts."

Decker checked his watch. "Which should have been 15 minutes ago. The best course of action, is to stay on course with our original plan."

Vice President Bilden entered the room. "Decker, is there time remove the First Lady from the concert?"

Decker checked his watch. "It'll be close. Why?"

Bilden smiled. "I want her."

Decker gave the Director a 'are you kidding me' look. The Director shrugged. "Give the man what he wants. He's about to be the next President."

Decker rolled his eyes and muttered. "Fine. Who can I contact to remove the First Lady?"

The Director addressed Charlotte. "Charlotte, my dear. Find out if Mr. Gruber is still in LA. Tell him I have a new job for him. We'll put our search for Sarah Walker on hold. Besides, if she is still in LA, the explosion will take care of that problem.

Pacific Concert Hall

Rafe Gruber surprised Sydney Prince in the atrium. Prince wasn't thrilled to see the gruff assassin, but was relieved to have a competent assassin on hand.

Gruber addressed Prince in a flat tone. "Decker sent me. He wants the First Lady extracted."

Prince rolled her eyes. "Seriously?"

Gruber glanced around disinterested. "I'm not paid to question instructions."

Prince scoffed. "How do you plan to get her away from the Secret Service?"

Gruber shrugged. "Create a diversion, then take them out. Simple."

Prince shook her head in disbelief. "Good luck with that."

Gruber sighed. "We'll tell the First Lady there is a phone call for her. When we isolate her from the President, we take out her Secret Service detail, hit her with chloroform, and then take her out the back. It doesn't take a genius to figure that one out."

Prince snapped her fingers at a Ring agent posing as an attendant. "Find the First Lady. Tell her she has an urgent phone call at the service desk."

Prince stared at Gruber. "Okay, hot shot. Let's try not to fuck this up."

Castle

Orion took a breath after intercepting a phone call from a location in Falls Church, Virginia to Prince. Frost pulled up the CIA dossier on Rafe Gruber after the call ended.

Frost spoke calmly to Sarah. "Sarah, any minute now, expect to be summoned. An assassin named Rafe Gruber has instructions to grab you. He's working with Prince."

Chuck and Sarah stared at one another before Sarah responded. "Okay. We haven't been able to find the bomb. I'll take out Gruber and interrogate Prince."

Casey chimed in. "Can I handle the interrogation, and you take out Gruber?"

Sarah grinned. "Feeling left out, Casey?"

Chuck sighed. "Casey, you, I, and our detail will follow five minutes behind Sarah. We need Prince alive."

Casey grunted. "Wasn't planning on killing her before letting Verbanski beat the information out of her."

Sarah leaned over and gave Chuck a soft kiss. "Okay, guys. Let's do it."

As expected, an attendant approached, informing Sarah there was an urgent phone call at the service desk.

Sarah spoke quickly when Bower, Zondra, and Carina followed. "Jason, follow Carina and Zondra's lead. Be ready to act quickly."

Frost scanned the surveillance feeds. "Sarah, I count two Ring agents with Prince and Gruber. There's three more watching the rear exit. That will be the extraction point."

Sarah spoke confidently. "Not a fair fight at all…for them."

Pacific Concert Hall

Sarah decided to change the odds by quickly excusing herself to the restroom the moment she hung up the phone. Prince and Gruber followed close behind, along with two Ring agents.

Sarah gave Carina and Zondra a knowing look. She knew Bower would have to stop outside the restroom door, so she decided to have Zondra back him up.

Sarah gave Zondra a subtle tap on the shoulder the moment they arrived to the restroom. Gruber headed for the men's room, while Prince followed Sarah and Carina inside. The two Ring agents stopped near a picture, pretending to admire it.

After Zondra and Bower turned, Zondra whispered. "Okay, I'll take the one on the right, you take the one on the left. Keep your eye on the men's room. When Gruber acts, take him out."

Bower took a cleansing breath. "Got it."

Zondra smiled sadistically. "Now!"

Zondra drew her handgun and shot one Ring agent, while Bower took out the other. The sound of gunfire caused bystanders to run for cover.

Gruber had a little surprise of his own. He tossed a flashbang into the hallway, blinding Bower and Zondra.

Gruber exited the bathroom, and shot Zondra in her bullet-proof vest. Bower turned his weapon, but Gruber knocked it out of his hand. Gruber grinned, and drew a knife.

Bower took a steady breath. "Alright, asshole. Let's get it on."

Gruber swiped at Bower wildly, while Bower tried to dodge the deadly thrusts of Gruber's knife. In the meantime, Zondra caught her breath and crawled to her handgun. The moment she grabbed it, she turned and took aim, but couldn't fire because Bower was too close.

Gruber got the upper hand, and got behind Bower. Bower put all his strength into keeping Gruber from cutting his throat. Bower glanced to Zondra, took a breath, and then elbowed Gruber as hard as he could. Gruber lost his grip, and Bower dove out of the way. Zondra put two rounds in Gruber's chest, and one in his head.

Inside the restroom, the moment gunfire erupted, Prince made her move. The moment she drew her handgun, Carina turned and kicked it out of her hands. The two traded punches momentarily, before Prince slung Carina into a mirror. Before Prince could finish Carina off, Sarah kicked Prince in the back with a powerful side kick. Prince turned, and Sarah punched Prince in the face, stunning her.

Prince smiled as she wiped the blood from her face. "You're not the First Lady."

Sarah seethed. "Nope. I'm the woman that's about to kick your ass."

Prince reacted by charging Sarah. The two women crashed into a stall, and traded a series of punches, before Sarah kicked Prince back toward the sinks.

Prince drew a small revolver from an ankle holster, and Sarah swung the stall door closed the moment Prince fired.

Bower and Zondra crashed into the room, but Zondra turned the moment three Ring agents guarding the exit rounded the corner, and fired.

Prince turned, and shot Bower in his bullet-proof vest. Bower fell backwards. Sarah crashed through the bathroom stall, and two knives flew through the air, hitting Prince in the wrist, and shoulder. Prince cried out in pain, dropping the handgun. Sarah grabbed Prince by the hair, smashing her head against a sink.

Zondra killed one Ring agent the moment Bower landed beside her. Bower rolled to his stomach, took a breath, and fired.

Zondra ejected the magazine in her handgun the moment two Ring agents charged around the corner. Bower got to his feet, took aim, and shot one Ring agent while moving in position in front of Zondra. Bower grunted as two rounds hit him in the vest, and cried out when another round hit him in the shoulder. Bower fell backwards into Zondra, causing Zondra to drop her handgun. Bower took a breath, raised his handgun, and cursed under his breath when he heard the dreaded 'click' of being out of ammo. The second Ring agent stopped, and smiled. The slide on Bower's handgun was locked back, indicating he was out of ammunition.

As the Ring agent raised his weapon, Casey and Verbanski popped around the corner, and riddled the agent with bullets.

Zondra helped Bower lean against the wall the moment Sarah and a dazed Carina, exited the bathroom with handguns at the ready.

Bower winced. "Damn that hurts!"

Zondra checked Bower over, and noticed blood oozing from his shoulder. "He's hit in the shoulder! The rest of the rounds hit his vest!"

Sarah and Carina hurried to Bower's aid. Sarah spoke with authority. "Alright. Take slow, deep breaths. Can you walk?'

Bower nodded. "Yeah."

Sarah put a hand on Zondra. "Stay with him. Get a medic."

Zondra nodded. "On it."

Zondra put pressure on Bower's gunshot wound. "Do you think your wife would mind if I kissed you for saving my ass?"

Bower chuckled, but winced. "She can get pretty jealous."

Zondra kissed Bower on the cheek. "There. No harm done."

Bower nodded in pain. "I'm sure she'll understand."

Chuck noticed the symphony was coming to an end. He keyed his mic. "Morgan, it's time. Unleash Jeffster."

Casey approached Sarah. "Is anything left of Prince?"

Sarah pointed to the restroom with her thumb. "If you're here to take out the trash, it's in there."

Casey grunted. "Gladly."

Castle

Orion and Frost finally pin-pointed the location of the phone call to Prince. The call originated from a gated community in Falls Church, Virginia.

Orion placed a jet on stand-by at LAX. The team could not let the opportunity to capture the Ring's leadership slip out of their hands.

Orion and Beckman organized a quick extraction once the bomb was deactivated, while the team questioned Sydney Prince. Time was running out.

The President approached Beckman concerned. "General Beckman, we have to start evacuating Los Angeles."

Beckman frowned. "Mr. President, as much as I agree with you, there's no time. Our only shot is finding that bomb."

Frost sighed heavily. "Showtime. Prince just gave up the location of the bomb."

Orion muttered. "Okay, Chuck. It's now in your hands, Son."

Pacific Concert Hall

Chuck and Sarah bolted into the concert hall, and walked quickly, but inconspicuously toward the location of the bomb. It didn't take long for Prince to give it up after Verbanski skipped the usual formalities, and opted for a potent dose of sodium pentothal. Although Prince resisted, Verbanski's foot on her wind pipe hastened the interrogation.

Chuck found the device, and pointed. Sarah scanned the area for threats, but paused briefly as the crowd clapped and moved to Jeff and Lester jamming on stage. Morgan, who was conducting the pair's rendition of A-ha's signature song "Take On Me," appeared to be comfortable with his mission.

Sarah grinned. "Wow. They actually sound half-way decent."

Chuck flipped a seat back, and found the device. "Yeah…when they're sober."

Sarah knelt next to Chuck. "Did you flash?"

Chuck frowned. "Yeah. I managed to by-pass a tamper switch, but the design in the Intersect is nothing like what I see here."

Chuck opened the laptop on the top of the device, and turned to face Sarah. "What do you think?"

Sarah thought hard. "Irene Demova?"

Chuck grinned. "Sarah, that's brilliant. By the way, thanks for not ribbing me about my familiarity with a Serbian porn star the first time I had to use her talents to diffuse a bomb."

Sarah chuckled. "I felt it probably wasn't a good idea to, uh, question your relationship with Miss Demova, considering you looked as though you would lose your lunch at any moment. I did ask Casey how he knew about Irene Demova. All I got was a grunt."

Chuck took a breath when he saw a sound meter. "Typical Casey. Okay. This is the detonator. It's tied directly to the laptop."

Chuck popped his knuckles. "I guess history does repeat itself."

Chuck accessed the DOS override on the Prism Express laptop, and opened a web browser.

Chuck shook his head. "This is insane. I can't believe the same website is still active. I lost count of how many computers I repaired thanks to this virus."

Sarah grinned. "High lonely guy volume, huh?"

Chuck opened the website, and the virus fried the laptop in a matter of seconds. Chuck winked at Sarah, who rolled her eyes.

Sarah shrugged. "We got all dressed up, and this was the outcome? A little anti-climactic, wouldn't you agree?"

Chuck laughed softly. "Would you have preferred the mushroom cloud alternative? Thanks, but I think I'll pass on being vaporized."

Sarah kissed Chuck gently on the lips. "I have a confession to make. I wanted to kiss you after you diffused the last bomb. If Casey hadn't been there, I would have."

Chuck smiled. "I wanted to kiss you after you told me to trust you later at the beach. For the record, I trust you with my life, Sarah."

Sarah stared longingly in Chuck's eyes. "I fell for you long before you diffused that bomb, Chuck. I'm sorry I put my job before you in the beginning. I love you so much, Chuck Bartowski."

Chuck cupped Sarah's face and placed a gentle kiss on her lips. "I love you too, Sarah Bartowski. You don't have to apologize. I'm just glad we're together now."

Chuck motioned to the stage. "Should we, uh, put a stop to this?"

Sarah wrapped herself in Chuck's arm. "Nah. This song is starting to grow on me."

Casey and Verbanski appeared, with Carina close behind.

Casey spoke with a sense of urgency. "You two can celebrate later. A NEST team just arrived, and we need to get moving. Orion found the Ring Elders. They're in a safe house in Virginia."

Chuck helped Sarah to her feet. "Okay. Let's end this."

Castle

Ellie and Devon worked quickly on Bower while the team prepared their gear for the mission to Virginia.

After taking an X-ray, the two doctors determined the bullet stopped in muscle tissue and didn't hit any bones. Before Devon sedated Bower to extract the bullet, Bower put a hand on Devon's wrist.

"Devon…don't knock me out. I'm going to Virginia."

Ellie gave Bower a concerned look. "No, you're not. You were shot. You're staying right here with us."

Bower shook his head vehemently. "Ellie, I have to do this. Those people are responsible for attacking my ship. I intend to see this through to the end."

Before Ellie could respond, Casey put a hand on Ellie's shoulder. "Ellie, I don't expect you to understand this, but this will haunt him for the rest of his life if he's not part of this."

Ellie turned and put a hand on her hip. "John, he was shot. He is my patient, and I am not releasing him."

Bower took a steady breath. "Ellie, please don't keep me behind. I am begging you."

Beckman entered the room, and spoke in a calm tone. "Petty Officer Bower, you are to remain here under the care of Doctors Bartowski and Woodcomb. This is not open for debate."

Bower sighed. "With all due respect, Ma'am, I'm fit for duty."

The President noticed the commotion, and decided to enter. "Pardon the intrusion, is this the young man that was injured?"

Bower tried to sit up. Casey pushed him back down. "Stand down, Bower."

Bower muttered. "Just great. The first time I'm addressed by my Commander-in-Chief, I'm flat on my back."

The President chuckled. "I think you're excused from decorum at the moment Petty Officer."

The President took a seat, and held out his hand. "My apologies for not introducing myself earlier. Zach Levy."

Bower shook the President's hand. "Operations Specialist First Class Jason Bower, Sir."

President Levy smiled. "I know. When General Beckman requested you be read in, I was very impressed with your file. I also had the opportunity to speak with Captain Lassiter. He speaks very highly of you. He informed me he was planning to recommend you for advancement to Chief Petty Officer during the Navy's next advancement cycle. Not many Sailors at their 8th year of service achieves that milestone. Most Sailors are lucky to make Chief in 10 years, according to Admiral Burke. He also told me you've been taking college courses on top of your duties as Leading Petty Officer for your ship's division."

Ellie smiled. "You told me you wouldn't be good in college."

Bower nodded humbly. "Not with a full course load. I've only taken a few at a time."

The President gave Bower a coy look. "Yeah, you're down to 15 semester hours before completing a degree in Electrical Engineering."

Chuck and Sarah entered the room with the First Lady, and stood off to the side.

President Levy turned and smiled at his wife, who handed him a piece of paper.

The President opened the paper. "I asked Yvonne to print out this letter from the Bureau of Naval Personnel. After reviewing your file, I initially wanted to give you a commission as an Ensign. Unfortunately, Navy regulations requires a 4-year college degree. What I will say is, after you complete your remaining college credits, you will be receiving a commission. In the meantime, I have something else in mind."

President Levy read the piece of paper silently, then looked Bower in the eyes. "Petty Officer Bower, Chief Warrant Officers in the Navy are normally selected from senior non-commissioned officers holding the rank of Chief Petty Officer and above. I have requested that rule be waived in your case, and the Bureau of Naval Personnel has processed my request to promote you to Chief Warrant Officer 2. Your promotion is effective today."

Bower's eyes widened, and he stuttered. "Th…thank you, Sir."

The President smiled. "We'll have a formal commissioning ceremony in the near future. I'm sure your wife would enjoy the honor of pinning on your new insignia."

The President shook Bower's hand. "Congratulations, Chief Warrant Officer Bower."

Casey opened a jewelry box with two vertical bars inside denoting Bower's new rank, and another box with the Navy Chief Warrant Officer Intelligence Specialist insignia inside.

Tears welled in Bower's eyes. "Thank you, Sir. I'm…honored…and speechless."

Ellie addressed the room. "Alright. Everyone out. My patient needs a bullet removed from his shoulder."

Bower pleaded with Ellie. "Ellie, please let me finish this."

Ellie held up a finger. "Alright. But, you stay out of the action, and you better keep your arm in a sling. If you don't, you and I are going to hold Captain's Mast when you get back. Is that clear?"

Bower nodded quickly. "Uh…yes, Ma'am."

Casey grunted impressed. "I'm impressed, Ellie. How do you know about Captain's Mast?"

Ellie smiled. "I was a big JAG fan."

Devon muttered. "And still watches the reruns. I've missed many a UCLA game thanks to Harmon Rabb, Jr."

Chuck grinned. "Ellie dressed up as Sarah MacKenzie one Halloween. You would have been impressed, Casey. Ellie scared the hell out of me in her Marine uniform."

Casey's eyes widened. "Ellie scares the hell out of me out of uniform."

Sarah replied in a matter-of-fact tone. "You can say that again."

Devon placed an oxygen mask on Bower's face. "Just breathe normally. Oh, you're gonna enjoy the cocktail Ellie and I prepared. You're in for quite a trip, bro."

Ellie jammed a needle in Bower's thigh.

Bower's eyes crossed. "Wow…I see birdies…flablargh…" Bower passed out.

Ellie smiled. "He'll be awake in time for the mission. Alright, Devon. You take care of the suction, and I'll dig this bullet out."

Falls Church Virginia, 8 Hours Later

Luckily, after the device failed to detonate, Decker and the Director decided it was best to lay low. Vice President Bilden returned to Washington to appear as though nothing happened.

The news story mentioned an "incident" in the Pacific Concert Hall, but the President decided it was best to put a media black-out on the situation. He was already on pins and needles keeping Goya's presence in the United States in the dark.

Down the street from the Ring safe house, Casey parked the van, and performed a weapons check.

Chuck turned and put a hand on Bower. "Are you sure you're alright? You look pale."

Bower nodded. "I'm fine, just sore. Ellie and Devon patched me up pretty good."

Sarah spoke in a concerned tone. "Jason, you could have sat this one out. We all admire your sense of duty, but you were injured."

Bower look determined. "I appreciate everyone's concern, but 7 of my shipmates were killed because of these bastards. I'm here on their behalf." Bower put on his USS BAINBRIDGE ship's ballcap.

Casey grunted with pride. "Honor, Courage, Commitment, Sailor."

Bower stared Casey in the eyes. "Semper Fi, Marine."

Casey replied solemnly. "Ooh Rah."

Chuck spoke with conviction. "We'll get these people. I promise."

Bower initiated the thermal imaging and long-range voice sensors. Seconds later, the team confirmed the targets were still inside. Chuck configured the console so Bower could handle surveillance with one hand.

Verbanski turned. "Alright, ladies. You're up."

Carina finished zipping up her boots. "Can you believe these perverts ordered hookers after trying to blow up Los Angeles?"

Zondra checked her hair and make-up. "Nothing surprises me anymore, Carina. Lucky for us, one of your contacts is a D.C. Madam."

Carina gave Zondra a coy look. "It helps to have friends in high places."

Verbanski muttered sarcastically. "That's setting high expectations."

Sarah stepped out of the van, and brushed out the wrinkles on her red dress. "Well, ladies. Let's go entertain these assholes."

Chuck sighed heavily as he adjusted the tie on his Armani suit. "I still say Casey would have made a more believable pimp."

Sarah rested her hands on Chuck's chest. "You're cuter."

Casey grunted in amusement. "Could be worse. They could have asked for a gigolo."

Chuck admired Sarah's red dress, fishnet stockings, and lace-up boots. "Wow. Can we get an outfit like that for home?"

Sarah purred in Chuck's ear. "I did get this for home…Chuck."

Casey rolled his eyes. "Get your head in the game, Bartowski. Grown-ups are trying to work here."

Bower took a breath to steady his vision. The painkillers Ellie provided were making him slightly queasy. "Guys, they're all in the living room."

Chuck, Sarah, Carina, and Zondra made their way to the house.

Chuck whispered in Sarah's ear. "How is a pimp supposed to act, anyway?"

Sarah smirked. "Ask Carina."

Carina answered in a matter-of-fact tone. "Sleazy, suave, and you have to man-handle us a little. Be sure to call us your 'bitches' when we get inside."

Chuck replied dryly. "Like I said, Casey should have been the pimp."

A/N: The reason for spending a little more time on Bower's character in this chapter is because he is about to be put between a rock and a hard place with some of his in-laws. Let's just say there are snakes in the garden…remember, the Ring has many members in many places. I sort of gave a hint in this chapter.

I have a rather comical scene planned for the birth of his child...involving a showdown between the team, and a rather-imposing hospital staff. If anyone is familiar with Nurse Diesel's character in Mel Brookes' High Anxiety, you'll enjoy it. I'm also throwing Ellie into the mix, since she is about as imposing as it gets. Ellie needs to be the heroine for a change anyway, and what better place than on her own turf: a hospital. Besides, Ellie is determined to have her wedding without delay.

As for Sarah and Chuck…will they finally realize it's time for a pregnancy test? Sarah's hormones are about to rage.

As for the last scene in this chapter, nobody panic. The team going in as a pimp and prostitutes isn't going where you may think it is going. I've always wanted to write a seduction mission...but not something raunchy. More like something out of a National Lampoon movie. Let me just say that the next chapter involves...nah, I won't give anything away this time. One thing I will promise, it will be outrageous.

Okay, maybe a tiny hint about the rest of the chapter...remember, I like twists...