A/N from Nat - T thought this chapter was really awesome to
write........but wait
till ya see the next one!! It;s like 10 betters!!! MUHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!
Come on I had to leave you guys' hangin one last time! *G*
A/N from Pixie - Okay, just a few things. Number one- In regards to Drop Bears in the last chapter: To the Aussies - Nat and I have found no conclusive evidence that they do not exist, so we fully believe they are around solely for our enjoyment.
To the America's - Don't stand under trees in fear of Drop Bears. *g*
Big thanks to Vicki for beta-ing, this is a milestone people, it's the first chapter to receive it. Just a question, does anyone actually read these A/N's? Or are we just talking to ourselves?
Feedback: PLEASE!!! I will resort to begging. The next chapter is done, the more reviews we get, the nicer we'll feel, and the sooner we'll post! I promise!
Any persons wishing to be put on mailing list, don't hesitate to let me know!
--------------------------
Harm, Mac and her son travelled with the Admiral, and Fi went with Webb, and the two parties arrived at the hotel almost simultaneously. They're manner was subdued, and they were all tired. Mac hadn't slept properly since Harm had been shot, and they had all been running on nervous energy all day.
They moved through the car park, when suddenly Fi stopped dead. Webb nearly ran into her, and without asking he looked up to see what had caught her attention. He could feel Fi's mood darken as Harm came up behind them.
"Hey... isn't that......?" He pointed across the car park to the stationary Humvee that looked suspiciously like the one they had seen Ando and Phantom drive off in just hours before.
Fi was off at a dead run before Webb could even blink.
"Fi! Wait!"
He was off after her, and heard her outrageous cry before she disappeared into the building, "Those bitches are going to pay!"
Webb didn't bother to see if the others were following. He had to catch up with Fi before she made it too the hotel room.
Taking the steps two at a time, he called out to her again, but she had only one thought in her mind, and he could never make it.
Reaching Mac and Harm's room, Fi flung open the door, to see Ando, a grin spreading from ear to ear on her face. Beside her, Phantom sat on the couch, and her own grin at seeing Fi dropped the second she saw the others face.
Fi started towards them, and Ando opened her arms for a hug, her grin widening. She knew she was in trouble, and her mockery of Fi's anger as she stalked towards them was just edging her on.
"Miss me?"
Fi answered with her fist, making direct contact with the side of Ando's face. Ando's head snapped back, and she gasped in pain, then whipped her head back around. Without even thinking, Ando went at Fi, her own fist raising in response. Her arm came down, when a hard hand slapped against her closed fist. Ando looked up in shock, into Webb's concerned eyes. Her shock however, was momentary, as Ando launched herself at her attacker. Fi took a healthy step back, suddenly fearful, but Webb was quicker, placing himself in between the two girls. Ando ended up against Webb, who tried desperately to restrain her, but Ando was beyond thinking rationally.
"Let me at her bitch!"
By that time, both Mac and Harm had entered the room, and they stood in mute shock at the scene before them.
Phantom sprang off the couch, all pretence of this being in jest gone, and grabbed Ando from behind, yanking her off of Webb.
"Damnit Ando! Get a grip on yourself!"
Ando pulled against Phantoms restraint, "Let go of me goddamn it!"
Mac, quickly handing the sleeping Harmon to her lover, ran over to Ando and grabbed one of her arms helping Phantom restrain her. Phantom moved to Ando's other side, still yelling in her ear to calm down. But Ando would have none of that, determined to cause at least a little bit of pain to her friend.
Mac could see that Ando was not going to calm down until she got to give Fi a taste of her own medicine. So she decided to take things into her own hands. Marine to Marine.
She twisted Ando's arm behind her back, and Phantom instinctively let go. Before she could get over the shock at being moved so quickly, Mac pushed Ando up against the far wall.
Ando grunted in pain as she hit hard, her bruised face hitting the wall, and Mac brought her face right next too Ando's ear.
"Get control of yourself Marine, and get rid of this attitude or I will haul you out of this hotel and kick your six out of the Marines so fast it will make your head spin! Am I making myself clear?!"
Ando didn't want to admit defeat, and fort against her training to answer Mac directly.
"I can't hear you Marine! Or are you stupid enough to ignore a senior officer? I will ask you one more time! Stand down!"
"Yes ma'am!" Ando bit out each word through gritted teeth, then took a deep breath. Mac held her tight until she was sure Ando relaxed, then released her.
Ando's hand went to her face, rubbing her bruised cheek, then glanced at Fi.
The younger woman had something close to a smirk on her face, and Ando's rage couldn't be contained. Fortunately, Phantom had anticipated the outburst, and grabbed Ando by her shoulder, propelling her in the opposite direction of Fi.
"Ah! Ando settle!"
She braced herself as Ando rebelled, then Mac's sharp voice hit the air, "Major!"
Ando let out a frustrated sigh, grudgingly letting Phantom push her the rest of the way across the room, then past Harm into the bathroom.
Harm, still standing where he had when he'd first entered the room, look at Fi, "What the hell was that about?"
Fi shrugged, sitting down on the couch, looking at least a little ashamed, "She doesn't like to be hit."
From the next room, they heard the shower start, then Ando's almighty howl. Phantom's rough voice came back, "Stay there till you cool off!"
Moments later Phantom re-appeared into the living room, half soaking with water, "She'll be fine."
"I thought you guys were friends?"
Fi let out a small laugh, "It's because we're friends that I'm still sitting here."
At seeing Harm's confused look, Phantom explained, "Ando's the kinda girl who could rip your head off with her teeth, if she really wanted too. I honestly think Fi pushes her on purpose.. trying to see just how far she can go before she kills her." Phantom sat down next too Fi, closing her eyes, "I'm under strict instructions never to leave them in a room alone together. God knows what'd happen."
Fi didn't answer, throwing a cheeky grin in Phantoms direction, and both Mac and Harm shook their heads in wonder. The three girls had the most complicated relationship they had ever witnessed.
Harm and Mac woke early the next morning to find Phantom and Webb deep in conversation in the living room. Fi had left to her own place last night, shortly after disappearing to talk to Ando for a while, and she assured them all that everything was alright between them. The Admiral, who had secured his own room down the hall, was probably still sleeping. Little Harmon was still in the land of dreams in the bed that Harm and Mac shared. The poor boy had refused to leave his mothers side since they'd gotten back, and Ando, still sporting a colourful bruise on her cheek, was sprawled out on the couch, only partly awake.
It didn't take long though to round everyone up, as they tried to figure out their next move.
"I checked the Novotel on my way here," Fi sat down with a large cup of coffee in her hand, "But no ones been back there since we checked it out the first time. Renee has gone to ground."
Webb shook his head, "She can't have left the country, and we've got the airports covered."
"And with Sarah she won't be going far." Harm added, hoping he was right.
"So we need to think... where's the last place she would expect to be found? Where is the last place you'd want to go." Fi spoke the last sentence almost to herself.
"To a dead man's house." Phantom followed the trend of thinking out loud, then suddenly turned and smacked Ando in excitement, who was sitting on the back of the couch next to her. Ando, not anticipating the attack, fell backwards on to the couch, but Phantom ignored her cry of outrage, "Oh my god that's it!"
Everyone looked at her expectantly.
"She was working with Commander Brumby! No ones been to his place since he got shot. Why would we? She's probably been there all along!"
It didn't take anything else to convince Harm, although the Admiral and Webb were having doubts, but he finally swayed them all with 'It wont hurt to check'. Mac however, refused to take little Harmon with them.
"There were these two men - think evil henchmen, - who were the ones that tied us up in the bush." Ando explained, "And the Colonel is right, we'd best leave him here."
Phantom raised her eyebrow, "Are you going to baby-sit?"
Ando scowled, but didn't rise to the bait, one of the few instances where she used her better judgment and stayed silent. It took a bit of arguing, but it was eventually decided that Webb and the Admiral would stay behind with little Harmon. Harmon on the other hand, didn't agree that it was the best plan, still refusing to leave his mothers side. Harm started to wonder just what it was that Renee had put him through to make him so fearful, but after a few soft words and a hug, Mac started off without him.
Mac drove to Mic's house, she felt confident in familiar surroundings. It was hard to imagine that less then three months ago she had been living here, blissfully unaware of the turn her life was about to take. She shook her head, but took comfort in the fact that her young son was now safe. She looked over at Harm, who sat in the passengers seat next to her, his face a mask of worry. Mac reached out to take his hand, and squeezed it gently, giving him her support. He graced her with a small, sad smile, before turning his thoughts back inward.
Harm wasn't really worried that Renee would harm their daughter. She was after all the girls mother, and although slightly crazy, she wasn't a monster. But nevertheless, he was anxious to get her home. He wouldn't relax until she was back in his arms.
The drive to Mic's was short, and they were there just as the traffic started to pick up.
The 5 of them sat in the car, which was parked a couple of houses down from Mic's. No one said anything for a couple of minutes, so Ando took it upon herself to get this show rolling. "So are we going to sit in this damn car forever or we gonna go in and check it out?"
Fi and Phantom just rolled their eyes, so typical of Ando to just want to go strolling up to the door and see if anyone was home. She never needed a plan before so why start making one up now.
"Lets just wait and see if anyone comes in or out, then well talk about going and breaking the door down." Fi looked at Ando.
Fi knew the mood Ando was in, after last nights little incident, she knew Ando would be fired up and look for a fight anyway she could get one. Fi also knew that Ando didn't have time to have a good work out at the gym this morning, which would have been normal routine if it was a normal day after one of their fights. But the new information didn't allow it. So here they were, stuck in the car, just waiting.
"Fiona, I don't know, I have to agree with Ando here. I can't stand sitting around anymore while my daughter may be I that house." Harm spoke to everyone as he began to grow frustrated.
"Harm, like you said, I'm sure Sarah's fine. Let's not be stupid about this, ok, we've have all had enough scares for a life time." Mac spoke softly to Harm and squeezed his hand again.
"Yeah, your right Mac." Harm sighed and linked their fingers together. 'What would I do without you marine' he said with his soft smile, then raised her hand to his lips and kissed it gently. It was Andos turn to roll her eyes at the two people sitting in the front seats.
'Gimme a break.' She mumbled to herself. She looked back at Harm and Mac and they were apparently off in their own little moment.
Ando couldn't take it anymore. She had gotten hit by Fi last night, got smacked by Phantom and nearly got stuck babysitting as well this morning. She was frustrated and had a whole lot of energy to burn and now she was stuck this car with two lovebirds next to her.
"Ahhh! I can't take this anymore! I'm going in." Ando yelled and got out of the car slamming the door behind her.
But then Ando turned and came back and opened the car door. "And Colonel, sorry about the door, coz technically it is your house now."
And with that Ando shut the car door again and walked over the front lawns of the houses standing between her and Mic's house.
Phantom just laughed, but Mac didn't understand.
"What did she mean by that?"
"You'll see Colonel." she laughed, "But I'd move up in front of the house now. I'd like to keep an eye on Ando just in case." Phantom grinned at Fi.
"She ain't gonna need your help, you've seen the mood she's in." Fi stated, "Knowing what Ando's capable of, when she gets like this."
"Yeah, well see, look here we go." Phantom said pointing at Ando who, like both of the girls knew she would, had just strolled up the front lawn and was nearing the front door.
Both Harm and Mac leaned forward with anticipation, looking out of the front windscreen, watching Ando closely, wondering what the hell she was going to do. Mac knew she could take one of the goones, but two of them? They had over powered her last time. They all watched as Ando stepped onto the front porch and walked over to one of the front windows and looked in. After she did that she walked back over to the front door.
"What is she going to do, knock and ask if they have my daughter?" Harm said sarcastically.
"Not exactly." Phantom replied. "Watch."
Harm did as he was told and turned his attention back to Ando, who was now taking a step back away from the door.
Then it suddenly dawned on Mac.
"Oh no!"
But it was too late. Ando kicked down the door and charged in. Mac couldn't believe it at first, but then realised she probably should have expected this.
"You two knew she was going to do this didn't you?" Mac questioned Phantom and Fi.
"Yeah," Phantom answered, "Usually when she is in one of these moods, they usually work to our advantage. Sometimes we even stir her up before a mission, just to get her in this state of mind."
Harm couldn't believe it, "You stir her up?"
"Yeah, but don't worry Captain," Fi reassured Harm, "I didn't hit her last night on purpose. I didn't even know we would be here today."
"Uh-huh." Was all Harm could say, not quite believing her.
The minutes ticked past, and Mac spoke up, "Ando's been in there for awhile, shouldn't she have been out by now, if what you guys say is true?"
"Nah, she'll be fine, give her a couple more minutes." Phantom said looking at her watch.
"Don't you worry about her?" Harm was shaking his head.
"Of course we do..." Phantom didn't finish her sentence as they all heard a loud smash, like glass breaking.
All 4 heads whipped back up and caught glimpse of one of the goons come flying through the front window, landing on his face and staying still.
"...But she can take care of herself." Fi finished with a grin.
Suddenly the front door flew open and the second goon came running out of the house.
"Hey she left one for me!" Phantom looked over at Fi, then got out of the car and went running at the goon.
"But not on purpose I bet." Fi laughed and jumped out of the car as well.
Harm and Mac just sat there in the car and watched in wonder. How could 3 girls be so reckless and wild, but still hold there jobs?
How could have Ando lasted in the Marine Core for so long, with this behaviour? Mac wondered.
Harm on the other hand, wished that The Admiral had come along, to show him just what these girls were like. Maybe he could see and realise then that all the little stunts Harm had pulled over the years were nothing compared to this.
But really the girls just reminded him of himself when he was in the Academy. Harm gave a small laugh as he watched Phantom launch herself at the goon, spear-tackling him on the front lawn.
Mac looked over at him, "What's so funny squid?"
Harm smiled a real smile at Mac, "Nothing. Lets go and get Sarah and go home, ok?"
Mac kissed him softly on the lips, "Absolutely."
"Common then." Harm took Mac's hand and linked them together again and pulled her out of the car with him.
They moved up the lawn, and Harm wondered if he should stop to help Phantom, who had the Goone on top of her. He head butted her, and Phantom's head snapped back, striking the ground. Momentarily dazed, Phantom couldn't react as the Goone went to punch her.
Suddenly a war cry had them all look up, and Ando charged the Goone from the front door. Metres from the goone and Phantom, Ando dived, taking the goone in the shoulder and they both tumbled a few feet from Phantom. Somehow, Ando ended up on top, and without blinking she dove her fist into the goones face. Blood spurted as she broke the man's nose, and another direct hit had the man unconscious.
Ando picked herself up from the floor, then moved over to Phantom, "You okay?"
Phantom nodded, then winced, "Head hurts like hell."
"Head like that, it's bound to hurt." Ando smiled, reaching down to help her friend up, "What, the leg wound wasn't enough of a disability for you?" she questioned.
Confused, Phantom looked back at the unconscious man, noticing a patch of blood swelling down the left side of his leg, "You did that?"
"Scissors." Ando explained, as both girls turned too Mac and Harm, who had Fi by their side, "And now I suggest you go find your daughter Captain. This place gives me the creeps."
Harm and Mac found Sarah easily enough, upstairs in Harmon's old bedroom, playing with some toys, blissfully ignorant of the mini-war that had just erupted down stairs. But there was no sign of Renee.
"Mommy's gone out." Sarah explained, "Left me all alone. I was bored!"
"It's okay sweetheart." Harm hugged his daughter tight. It was such a relief to have her back in his arms.
When they went back down stairs, Ando and Phantom had done a nice job of tying the goones up, and Fi had called the police. After that she called Webb, who assured them he'd fix what ever needed to be fixed with the local PD, just as long as they got the two goones in custody.
It wasn't long before the police showed up, who took down Renee's description, and promised they would start a man hunt as soon as possible, then the group of six made a hasty exit. They got back to the hotel before lunch, only to find Webb leaving.
"Got some things to take care of. Phantom, whenever they're ready to leave, your plane'll be fuled up and waiting. Unless ofcourse.." he turned too look at Mac and Harm, "You prefer to hang around?"
Harm looked at Mac, who had an expression that said heaps, "No, we'll go home."
Webb nodded, "I thought so. Ando, you're going with them..."
Ando started to protest, but Webb held up his hand, "I need you to pick up some things for me. It's not negotionable Major."
Ando nodded, a little bit put out, as Webb turned to Fi, "....Take care of yourself, alright? I'll see you all at the airport."
Fi nodded, then walked him out to the corridor. Mac and Harm had their backs to the door, but Ando and Phantom, who were sitting on the couch, watched them go, both girls sporting small smiles.
Just before Webb left, ever so briefly, both girls saw Fi reach out and squeeze Webbs hand, as she spoke a few soft words to him.
Webb nodded, but didn't linger at the doorway as he ducked out. Fi returned to her friends, who knew better then to say anything with Mac and Harm around. While not hesitating to tease their friend about her obvious attraction to their some-time employee, they knew that Webb would not want the Captain and Colonel to know.
Mac and Harm made ready to leave for later that afternoon, and were even relaxed enough to go and buy lunch down by the river in the harbour. Sarah and Harmon were absolutely delighted to be with their parents again, but Sarah held no misgivings towards Renee.
"We'll see mommy again soon, won't we?" she asked her father, popping another chip into her mouth.
Harm didn't know what to tell her, and looked at Mac for support. She, however, was busy trying to explain to Harmon why daddy wouldn't be coming back, and couldn't offer any.
Harm ended up mumbling a quick, "Sure we will." before deciding he wanted to leave Australia as quickly as possible. Reene was still lurking around after all. He gave Phantom a call, who assured him they were ready to leave when he was, and told him they'd meet him at the airport.
A half hour later, that's where Harm found himself, with Sarah clutching one hand, and Mac the other. Phantom was relaxing in one of the waiting chairs, talking to Ando. Both girls were sporting a few more cuts and bruises from the morning's little sparring session, but not enough to slow them down.
Fi was standing against the glass walls, her forehead pressed against it, lost in her own thoughts. The Admiral and Webb were off to one side, quietly conversing.
"Ready to go home?" Ando asked.
"Defiantly." Harm replied, relief flooding over him. They were finally going to leave this mess behind.
Harm thought too soon, as Fi took a step back from the glass, "Uh oh.. Psycho blonde at two o'clock."
They all looked up, to see Renee stalking towards the building. They stood in shock, untill Harm swore, "It's Renee."
"How did she find us?" Mac asked.
"Does it matter!?" Ando moved quickly, pulling Mac and Harm further from the windows, "Fi! Get the kids outta here."
Fi wasted no time grabbing the two children, but she was very quick in deciding that Harm and Mac, Webb and the Admiral should stay out of sight as well. Ando and Phantom had a better chance at dealing with Renee if they had the advantage of surprise.
Harm was last through the door, and stopped to crouch near them, giving him a view of the waiting room. He wouldn't leave them without some sort of backup if it was required. Fi and Webb stayed close to Harm, incase he did something stupid, while the Admiral took Mac and the children further down the corridor.
Renee burst through the airport doors, her eyes doing a quick scan of the room, but all she saw were two strangers lounging against the far wall. In her hand she clasped a double-barrelled shotgun, which she tightened her grip upon when realising her intended prey was not in sight.
Ando gave Phantom a quick glance, flashing her a grin. Phantom responded in kind, both girls knew without words what the plan would be. They had worked in tandem for so long now they could basically read each others thoughts.
"Hey, wow." Ando pulled herself off the wall, calling Renee's attention towards her as she started towards her, "That's a pretty awesome shotgun."
Renee's eyes followed Ando as she took another step forward, but didn't comment.
"I had me one of those once." Ando continued her slow approach, "But then the coppers found it and I was toast."
Renee frowned, giving Ando precious more seconds. To her right, out of Renee's line of vision, Phantom was slowly creeping towards her as well.
Renee lowered her shot gun, and the beginnings of a smile crept onto her face, but her eyes were still cold and calculating, "I'm looking for my husband."
"With a shotgun?" Phantom questioned.
Renee spun around, refocusing her attention to the other woman she hadn't even known was there, giving Ando the chance to stand beside her.
"Why don't you give that to me?" Ando held out her hand for the offending weapon, "I'm sure your husband won't appreciate being shot."
Phantom tensed, giving Ando the warning she needed, then let a smile grace her lips, "Again."
It took Renee a split second to process what Phantom had just said, but in that moment Ando had already moved. She grabbed the gun, twisting it upwards, hoping to yank it out of Renees hands, but the other woman had expected it, and held on fast.
Phantom moved to help Ando's attempts, when an all mighty bang resounded around the buliding. Ando, Phantom and Renee were momentarily defended as the shot gun went off, but before any one could press the advantage, the roof, which had copped the bullet, collapsed on top of them. Phantom let out a cry as a piece of plywood knocked her square across the back, throwing her towards Renee. Both women fell to the ground in a heap as Ando leaped back from the havoc. Debris and dust continued to shower down, but as Ando heard Phantom curse, she knew that the other woman had pressed the advantage.
As Ando tried to move in to help her friend, she jumped as Phantom let out an almighty howle. The woman rolled away from Renee and stood, clutching her arm.
"She bit me!" Phantom yelled in disbelief, "She actually bit me!"
As all of their attention was focused on Phantom, Webb snuck through the double doors and started on his way towards Renee.
Renee stood up also, but Ando moved quickly to intercept her. She reached for the gun once again, surprised at the hidden strength Renee possessed. Taking the weapon wasn't going to be as easy as she thought.
"A little help here!" Ando screamed at Phantom.
"But oh my god! Ando! She bit me!" Phantom was still in hysterics, "Does this look infected to you?"
Ando ignored Phantom, twisting the gun away from her friend, when another bark from the gun told Ando Renee's finger was still posed over the trigger. What she didn't expect to follow it was Fi's scream of terror.
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Alrighty people! That's it for now! PLEASE don't forget to review!
A/N from Pixie - Okay, just a few things. Number one- In regards to Drop Bears in the last chapter: To the Aussies - Nat and I have found no conclusive evidence that they do not exist, so we fully believe they are around solely for our enjoyment.
To the America's - Don't stand under trees in fear of Drop Bears. *g*
Big thanks to Vicki for beta-ing, this is a milestone people, it's the first chapter to receive it. Just a question, does anyone actually read these A/N's? Or are we just talking to ourselves?
Feedback: PLEASE!!! I will resort to begging. The next chapter is done, the more reviews we get, the nicer we'll feel, and the sooner we'll post! I promise!
Any persons wishing to be put on mailing list, don't hesitate to let me know!
--------------------------
Harm, Mac and her son travelled with the Admiral, and Fi went with Webb, and the two parties arrived at the hotel almost simultaneously. They're manner was subdued, and they were all tired. Mac hadn't slept properly since Harm had been shot, and they had all been running on nervous energy all day.
They moved through the car park, when suddenly Fi stopped dead. Webb nearly ran into her, and without asking he looked up to see what had caught her attention. He could feel Fi's mood darken as Harm came up behind them.
"Hey... isn't that......?" He pointed across the car park to the stationary Humvee that looked suspiciously like the one they had seen Ando and Phantom drive off in just hours before.
Fi was off at a dead run before Webb could even blink.
"Fi! Wait!"
He was off after her, and heard her outrageous cry before she disappeared into the building, "Those bitches are going to pay!"
Webb didn't bother to see if the others were following. He had to catch up with Fi before she made it too the hotel room.
Taking the steps two at a time, he called out to her again, but she had only one thought in her mind, and he could never make it.
Reaching Mac and Harm's room, Fi flung open the door, to see Ando, a grin spreading from ear to ear on her face. Beside her, Phantom sat on the couch, and her own grin at seeing Fi dropped the second she saw the others face.
Fi started towards them, and Ando opened her arms for a hug, her grin widening. She knew she was in trouble, and her mockery of Fi's anger as she stalked towards them was just edging her on.
"Miss me?"
Fi answered with her fist, making direct contact with the side of Ando's face. Ando's head snapped back, and she gasped in pain, then whipped her head back around. Without even thinking, Ando went at Fi, her own fist raising in response. Her arm came down, when a hard hand slapped against her closed fist. Ando looked up in shock, into Webb's concerned eyes. Her shock however, was momentary, as Ando launched herself at her attacker. Fi took a healthy step back, suddenly fearful, but Webb was quicker, placing himself in between the two girls. Ando ended up against Webb, who tried desperately to restrain her, but Ando was beyond thinking rationally.
"Let me at her bitch!"
By that time, both Mac and Harm had entered the room, and they stood in mute shock at the scene before them.
Phantom sprang off the couch, all pretence of this being in jest gone, and grabbed Ando from behind, yanking her off of Webb.
"Damnit Ando! Get a grip on yourself!"
Ando pulled against Phantoms restraint, "Let go of me goddamn it!"
Mac, quickly handing the sleeping Harmon to her lover, ran over to Ando and grabbed one of her arms helping Phantom restrain her. Phantom moved to Ando's other side, still yelling in her ear to calm down. But Ando would have none of that, determined to cause at least a little bit of pain to her friend.
Mac could see that Ando was not going to calm down until she got to give Fi a taste of her own medicine. So she decided to take things into her own hands. Marine to Marine.
She twisted Ando's arm behind her back, and Phantom instinctively let go. Before she could get over the shock at being moved so quickly, Mac pushed Ando up against the far wall.
Ando grunted in pain as she hit hard, her bruised face hitting the wall, and Mac brought her face right next too Ando's ear.
"Get control of yourself Marine, and get rid of this attitude or I will haul you out of this hotel and kick your six out of the Marines so fast it will make your head spin! Am I making myself clear?!"
Ando didn't want to admit defeat, and fort against her training to answer Mac directly.
"I can't hear you Marine! Or are you stupid enough to ignore a senior officer? I will ask you one more time! Stand down!"
"Yes ma'am!" Ando bit out each word through gritted teeth, then took a deep breath. Mac held her tight until she was sure Ando relaxed, then released her.
Ando's hand went to her face, rubbing her bruised cheek, then glanced at Fi.
The younger woman had something close to a smirk on her face, and Ando's rage couldn't be contained. Fortunately, Phantom had anticipated the outburst, and grabbed Ando by her shoulder, propelling her in the opposite direction of Fi.
"Ah! Ando settle!"
She braced herself as Ando rebelled, then Mac's sharp voice hit the air, "Major!"
Ando let out a frustrated sigh, grudgingly letting Phantom push her the rest of the way across the room, then past Harm into the bathroom.
Harm, still standing where he had when he'd first entered the room, look at Fi, "What the hell was that about?"
Fi shrugged, sitting down on the couch, looking at least a little ashamed, "She doesn't like to be hit."
From the next room, they heard the shower start, then Ando's almighty howl. Phantom's rough voice came back, "Stay there till you cool off!"
Moments later Phantom re-appeared into the living room, half soaking with water, "She'll be fine."
"I thought you guys were friends?"
Fi let out a small laugh, "It's because we're friends that I'm still sitting here."
At seeing Harm's confused look, Phantom explained, "Ando's the kinda girl who could rip your head off with her teeth, if she really wanted too. I honestly think Fi pushes her on purpose.. trying to see just how far she can go before she kills her." Phantom sat down next too Fi, closing her eyes, "I'm under strict instructions never to leave them in a room alone together. God knows what'd happen."
Fi didn't answer, throwing a cheeky grin in Phantoms direction, and both Mac and Harm shook their heads in wonder. The three girls had the most complicated relationship they had ever witnessed.
Harm and Mac woke early the next morning to find Phantom and Webb deep in conversation in the living room. Fi had left to her own place last night, shortly after disappearing to talk to Ando for a while, and she assured them all that everything was alright between them. The Admiral, who had secured his own room down the hall, was probably still sleeping. Little Harmon was still in the land of dreams in the bed that Harm and Mac shared. The poor boy had refused to leave his mothers side since they'd gotten back, and Ando, still sporting a colourful bruise on her cheek, was sprawled out on the couch, only partly awake.
It didn't take long though to round everyone up, as they tried to figure out their next move.
"I checked the Novotel on my way here," Fi sat down with a large cup of coffee in her hand, "But no ones been back there since we checked it out the first time. Renee has gone to ground."
Webb shook his head, "She can't have left the country, and we've got the airports covered."
"And with Sarah she won't be going far." Harm added, hoping he was right.
"So we need to think... where's the last place she would expect to be found? Where is the last place you'd want to go." Fi spoke the last sentence almost to herself.
"To a dead man's house." Phantom followed the trend of thinking out loud, then suddenly turned and smacked Ando in excitement, who was sitting on the back of the couch next to her. Ando, not anticipating the attack, fell backwards on to the couch, but Phantom ignored her cry of outrage, "Oh my god that's it!"
Everyone looked at her expectantly.
"She was working with Commander Brumby! No ones been to his place since he got shot. Why would we? She's probably been there all along!"
It didn't take anything else to convince Harm, although the Admiral and Webb were having doubts, but he finally swayed them all with 'It wont hurt to check'. Mac however, refused to take little Harmon with them.
"There were these two men - think evil henchmen, - who were the ones that tied us up in the bush." Ando explained, "And the Colonel is right, we'd best leave him here."
Phantom raised her eyebrow, "Are you going to baby-sit?"
Ando scowled, but didn't rise to the bait, one of the few instances where she used her better judgment and stayed silent. It took a bit of arguing, but it was eventually decided that Webb and the Admiral would stay behind with little Harmon. Harmon on the other hand, didn't agree that it was the best plan, still refusing to leave his mothers side. Harm started to wonder just what it was that Renee had put him through to make him so fearful, but after a few soft words and a hug, Mac started off without him.
Mac drove to Mic's house, she felt confident in familiar surroundings. It was hard to imagine that less then three months ago she had been living here, blissfully unaware of the turn her life was about to take. She shook her head, but took comfort in the fact that her young son was now safe. She looked over at Harm, who sat in the passengers seat next to her, his face a mask of worry. Mac reached out to take his hand, and squeezed it gently, giving him her support. He graced her with a small, sad smile, before turning his thoughts back inward.
Harm wasn't really worried that Renee would harm their daughter. She was after all the girls mother, and although slightly crazy, she wasn't a monster. But nevertheless, he was anxious to get her home. He wouldn't relax until she was back in his arms.
The drive to Mic's was short, and they were there just as the traffic started to pick up.
The 5 of them sat in the car, which was parked a couple of houses down from Mic's. No one said anything for a couple of minutes, so Ando took it upon herself to get this show rolling. "So are we going to sit in this damn car forever or we gonna go in and check it out?"
Fi and Phantom just rolled their eyes, so typical of Ando to just want to go strolling up to the door and see if anyone was home. She never needed a plan before so why start making one up now.
"Lets just wait and see if anyone comes in or out, then well talk about going and breaking the door down." Fi looked at Ando.
Fi knew the mood Ando was in, after last nights little incident, she knew Ando would be fired up and look for a fight anyway she could get one. Fi also knew that Ando didn't have time to have a good work out at the gym this morning, which would have been normal routine if it was a normal day after one of their fights. But the new information didn't allow it. So here they were, stuck in the car, just waiting.
"Fiona, I don't know, I have to agree with Ando here. I can't stand sitting around anymore while my daughter may be I that house." Harm spoke to everyone as he began to grow frustrated.
"Harm, like you said, I'm sure Sarah's fine. Let's not be stupid about this, ok, we've have all had enough scares for a life time." Mac spoke softly to Harm and squeezed his hand again.
"Yeah, your right Mac." Harm sighed and linked their fingers together. 'What would I do without you marine' he said with his soft smile, then raised her hand to his lips and kissed it gently. It was Andos turn to roll her eyes at the two people sitting in the front seats.
'Gimme a break.' She mumbled to herself. She looked back at Harm and Mac and they were apparently off in their own little moment.
Ando couldn't take it anymore. She had gotten hit by Fi last night, got smacked by Phantom and nearly got stuck babysitting as well this morning. She was frustrated and had a whole lot of energy to burn and now she was stuck this car with two lovebirds next to her.
"Ahhh! I can't take this anymore! I'm going in." Ando yelled and got out of the car slamming the door behind her.
But then Ando turned and came back and opened the car door. "And Colonel, sorry about the door, coz technically it is your house now."
And with that Ando shut the car door again and walked over the front lawns of the houses standing between her and Mic's house.
Phantom just laughed, but Mac didn't understand.
"What did she mean by that?"
"You'll see Colonel." she laughed, "But I'd move up in front of the house now. I'd like to keep an eye on Ando just in case." Phantom grinned at Fi.
"She ain't gonna need your help, you've seen the mood she's in." Fi stated, "Knowing what Ando's capable of, when she gets like this."
"Yeah, well see, look here we go." Phantom said pointing at Ando who, like both of the girls knew she would, had just strolled up the front lawn and was nearing the front door.
Both Harm and Mac leaned forward with anticipation, looking out of the front windscreen, watching Ando closely, wondering what the hell she was going to do. Mac knew she could take one of the goones, but two of them? They had over powered her last time. They all watched as Ando stepped onto the front porch and walked over to one of the front windows and looked in. After she did that she walked back over to the front door.
"What is she going to do, knock and ask if they have my daughter?" Harm said sarcastically.
"Not exactly." Phantom replied. "Watch."
Harm did as he was told and turned his attention back to Ando, who was now taking a step back away from the door.
Then it suddenly dawned on Mac.
"Oh no!"
But it was too late. Ando kicked down the door and charged in. Mac couldn't believe it at first, but then realised she probably should have expected this.
"You two knew she was going to do this didn't you?" Mac questioned Phantom and Fi.
"Yeah," Phantom answered, "Usually when she is in one of these moods, they usually work to our advantage. Sometimes we even stir her up before a mission, just to get her in this state of mind."
Harm couldn't believe it, "You stir her up?"
"Yeah, but don't worry Captain," Fi reassured Harm, "I didn't hit her last night on purpose. I didn't even know we would be here today."
"Uh-huh." Was all Harm could say, not quite believing her.
The minutes ticked past, and Mac spoke up, "Ando's been in there for awhile, shouldn't she have been out by now, if what you guys say is true?"
"Nah, she'll be fine, give her a couple more minutes." Phantom said looking at her watch.
"Don't you worry about her?" Harm was shaking his head.
"Of course we do..." Phantom didn't finish her sentence as they all heard a loud smash, like glass breaking.
All 4 heads whipped back up and caught glimpse of one of the goons come flying through the front window, landing on his face and staying still.
"...But she can take care of herself." Fi finished with a grin.
Suddenly the front door flew open and the second goon came running out of the house.
"Hey she left one for me!" Phantom looked over at Fi, then got out of the car and went running at the goon.
"But not on purpose I bet." Fi laughed and jumped out of the car as well.
Harm and Mac just sat there in the car and watched in wonder. How could 3 girls be so reckless and wild, but still hold there jobs?
How could have Ando lasted in the Marine Core for so long, with this behaviour? Mac wondered.
Harm on the other hand, wished that The Admiral had come along, to show him just what these girls were like. Maybe he could see and realise then that all the little stunts Harm had pulled over the years were nothing compared to this.
But really the girls just reminded him of himself when he was in the Academy. Harm gave a small laugh as he watched Phantom launch herself at the goon, spear-tackling him on the front lawn.
Mac looked over at him, "What's so funny squid?"
Harm smiled a real smile at Mac, "Nothing. Lets go and get Sarah and go home, ok?"
Mac kissed him softly on the lips, "Absolutely."
"Common then." Harm took Mac's hand and linked them together again and pulled her out of the car with him.
They moved up the lawn, and Harm wondered if he should stop to help Phantom, who had the Goone on top of her. He head butted her, and Phantom's head snapped back, striking the ground. Momentarily dazed, Phantom couldn't react as the Goone went to punch her.
Suddenly a war cry had them all look up, and Ando charged the Goone from the front door. Metres from the goone and Phantom, Ando dived, taking the goone in the shoulder and they both tumbled a few feet from Phantom. Somehow, Ando ended up on top, and without blinking she dove her fist into the goones face. Blood spurted as she broke the man's nose, and another direct hit had the man unconscious.
Ando picked herself up from the floor, then moved over to Phantom, "You okay?"
Phantom nodded, then winced, "Head hurts like hell."
"Head like that, it's bound to hurt." Ando smiled, reaching down to help her friend up, "What, the leg wound wasn't enough of a disability for you?" she questioned.
Confused, Phantom looked back at the unconscious man, noticing a patch of blood swelling down the left side of his leg, "You did that?"
"Scissors." Ando explained, as both girls turned too Mac and Harm, who had Fi by their side, "And now I suggest you go find your daughter Captain. This place gives me the creeps."
Harm and Mac found Sarah easily enough, upstairs in Harmon's old bedroom, playing with some toys, blissfully ignorant of the mini-war that had just erupted down stairs. But there was no sign of Renee.
"Mommy's gone out." Sarah explained, "Left me all alone. I was bored!"
"It's okay sweetheart." Harm hugged his daughter tight. It was such a relief to have her back in his arms.
When they went back down stairs, Ando and Phantom had done a nice job of tying the goones up, and Fi had called the police. After that she called Webb, who assured them he'd fix what ever needed to be fixed with the local PD, just as long as they got the two goones in custody.
It wasn't long before the police showed up, who took down Renee's description, and promised they would start a man hunt as soon as possible, then the group of six made a hasty exit. They got back to the hotel before lunch, only to find Webb leaving.
"Got some things to take care of. Phantom, whenever they're ready to leave, your plane'll be fuled up and waiting. Unless ofcourse.." he turned too look at Mac and Harm, "You prefer to hang around?"
Harm looked at Mac, who had an expression that said heaps, "No, we'll go home."
Webb nodded, "I thought so. Ando, you're going with them..."
Ando started to protest, but Webb held up his hand, "I need you to pick up some things for me. It's not negotionable Major."
Ando nodded, a little bit put out, as Webb turned to Fi, "....Take care of yourself, alright? I'll see you all at the airport."
Fi nodded, then walked him out to the corridor. Mac and Harm had their backs to the door, but Ando and Phantom, who were sitting on the couch, watched them go, both girls sporting small smiles.
Just before Webb left, ever so briefly, both girls saw Fi reach out and squeeze Webbs hand, as she spoke a few soft words to him.
Webb nodded, but didn't linger at the doorway as he ducked out. Fi returned to her friends, who knew better then to say anything with Mac and Harm around. While not hesitating to tease their friend about her obvious attraction to their some-time employee, they knew that Webb would not want the Captain and Colonel to know.
Mac and Harm made ready to leave for later that afternoon, and were even relaxed enough to go and buy lunch down by the river in the harbour. Sarah and Harmon were absolutely delighted to be with their parents again, but Sarah held no misgivings towards Renee.
"We'll see mommy again soon, won't we?" she asked her father, popping another chip into her mouth.
Harm didn't know what to tell her, and looked at Mac for support. She, however, was busy trying to explain to Harmon why daddy wouldn't be coming back, and couldn't offer any.
Harm ended up mumbling a quick, "Sure we will." before deciding he wanted to leave Australia as quickly as possible. Reene was still lurking around after all. He gave Phantom a call, who assured him they were ready to leave when he was, and told him they'd meet him at the airport.
A half hour later, that's where Harm found himself, with Sarah clutching one hand, and Mac the other. Phantom was relaxing in one of the waiting chairs, talking to Ando. Both girls were sporting a few more cuts and bruises from the morning's little sparring session, but not enough to slow them down.
Fi was standing against the glass walls, her forehead pressed against it, lost in her own thoughts. The Admiral and Webb were off to one side, quietly conversing.
"Ready to go home?" Ando asked.
"Defiantly." Harm replied, relief flooding over him. They were finally going to leave this mess behind.
Harm thought too soon, as Fi took a step back from the glass, "Uh oh.. Psycho blonde at two o'clock."
They all looked up, to see Renee stalking towards the building. They stood in shock, untill Harm swore, "It's Renee."
"How did she find us?" Mac asked.
"Does it matter!?" Ando moved quickly, pulling Mac and Harm further from the windows, "Fi! Get the kids outta here."
Fi wasted no time grabbing the two children, but she was very quick in deciding that Harm and Mac, Webb and the Admiral should stay out of sight as well. Ando and Phantom had a better chance at dealing with Renee if they had the advantage of surprise.
Harm was last through the door, and stopped to crouch near them, giving him a view of the waiting room. He wouldn't leave them without some sort of backup if it was required. Fi and Webb stayed close to Harm, incase he did something stupid, while the Admiral took Mac and the children further down the corridor.
Renee burst through the airport doors, her eyes doing a quick scan of the room, but all she saw were two strangers lounging against the far wall. In her hand she clasped a double-barrelled shotgun, which she tightened her grip upon when realising her intended prey was not in sight.
Ando gave Phantom a quick glance, flashing her a grin. Phantom responded in kind, both girls knew without words what the plan would be. They had worked in tandem for so long now they could basically read each others thoughts.
"Hey, wow." Ando pulled herself off the wall, calling Renee's attention towards her as she started towards her, "That's a pretty awesome shotgun."
Renee's eyes followed Ando as she took another step forward, but didn't comment.
"I had me one of those once." Ando continued her slow approach, "But then the coppers found it and I was toast."
Renee frowned, giving Ando precious more seconds. To her right, out of Renee's line of vision, Phantom was slowly creeping towards her as well.
Renee lowered her shot gun, and the beginnings of a smile crept onto her face, but her eyes were still cold and calculating, "I'm looking for my husband."
"With a shotgun?" Phantom questioned.
Renee spun around, refocusing her attention to the other woman she hadn't even known was there, giving Ando the chance to stand beside her.
"Why don't you give that to me?" Ando held out her hand for the offending weapon, "I'm sure your husband won't appreciate being shot."
Phantom tensed, giving Ando the warning she needed, then let a smile grace her lips, "Again."
It took Renee a split second to process what Phantom had just said, but in that moment Ando had already moved. She grabbed the gun, twisting it upwards, hoping to yank it out of Renees hands, but the other woman had expected it, and held on fast.
Phantom moved to help Ando's attempts, when an all mighty bang resounded around the buliding. Ando, Phantom and Renee were momentarily defended as the shot gun went off, but before any one could press the advantage, the roof, which had copped the bullet, collapsed on top of them. Phantom let out a cry as a piece of plywood knocked her square across the back, throwing her towards Renee. Both women fell to the ground in a heap as Ando leaped back from the havoc. Debris and dust continued to shower down, but as Ando heard Phantom curse, she knew that the other woman had pressed the advantage.
As Ando tried to move in to help her friend, she jumped as Phantom let out an almighty howle. The woman rolled away from Renee and stood, clutching her arm.
"She bit me!" Phantom yelled in disbelief, "She actually bit me!"
As all of their attention was focused on Phantom, Webb snuck through the double doors and started on his way towards Renee.
Renee stood up also, but Ando moved quickly to intercept her. She reached for the gun once again, surprised at the hidden strength Renee possessed. Taking the weapon wasn't going to be as easy as she thought.
"A little help here!" Ando screamed at Phantom.
"But oh my god! Ando! She bit me!" Phantom was still in hysterics, "Does this look infected to you?"
Ando ignored Phantom, twisting the gun away from her friend, when another bark from the gun told Ando Renee's finger was still posed over the trigger. What she didn't expect to follow it was Fi's scream of terror.
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Alrighty people! That's it for now! PLEASE don't forget to review!