The late night dinner with Price proved to be uneventful. Danny needed the connection to Brighton, then he could call the operation a success and go home. He knew once he got that connection, he could use it to see which camp monitors were involved as well. Although everything was running smoothly and he was getting the information he needed, it was going too slowly. He felt that at the rate he was going, he would never be able to end it. Price reminded Danny that Leilani would be joining them tomorrow evening, which only added to Danny's urgency to complete his assignment.
Laying in his bed he tried to focus on the assignment but couldn't resist the peacefulness he heard outside his open window. Indulging himself Danny turned his attention away from the investigation and listened to the soft breeze rustling through the topical overgrowth. In a distance he could faintly hear one of the Big Island's many waterfalls. Closing his eyes, Danny pictured the massive waterfall in his mind and recalled what it felt like to be reclining on the ground next to it. It was so real that he could even feel a soft spray from the water. For the first time since the investigation started, he could feel himself truly relax. Danny knew he should be concentrating on the investigation, but he was enjoying the feeling more than he ever thought he could. Finally emerging his entire being into his dream, he was quickly lulled to sleep and nearly missed the knock at his door.
Trying to get his bearings, Danny nearly stumbled as he got out of bed. "Who is it?" he questioned softly.
He heard the evil laugh that belonged to Price, "Sorry, but I'm not Leilani!" was the reply.
Looking at the clock it was 2:30 in the morning. Danny opened the door to find a fully dressed Price. "Dale, what are you doing?"
"Get dressed my friend. This morning will be your first day of school!" Price answered with a smile. He laughed again at Danny's expression and knew what was on the young man's mind. "I didn't know we were going to ship tonight. I was just told and I knew you wouldn't want to miss the preparation!"
"Can't we see it later in the morning? I mean it's not like it's happening right now!" Inwardly Danno was nervous. Steve had flown over to the Big Island the evening before and was supposed to have the surveillance van set up and ready to follow Dan wherever he headed. But Danny wasn't sure if anyone had planned on a middle of the night ride and taping session. He hoped that the surveillance officers would pick up on the sounds coming from his wire and notify Steve, who was staying in the area nearby. He needed Steve's presence in case the entire situation broke open tonight!
"But it is. We will begin with shipping everything to the docks tonight so it can be loaded. My friend on the mainland doesn't decide on shipments until the last moment. Lessens the possibility of detection and doesn't give authorities time to react in case there is ever a snitch."
"How does he do it? I mean you have a ship's log of goods. Then they're cargo inspections."
"Simple. He owns several captains...not to mention several inspectors. He just has to make sure he gets the right people lined up. The captain adds our cargo listing of fruit and exotic flowers to his log and a phony shipping report is cleared from the mainland. Since we have fruit and flowers, they are given extra care. Because it is listed as perishables, they are cleared first and our man is there to do the clearing. It works perfectly! Get dressed, I have the jeep ready to go."
Danny hurried with the wire trying to be sure it was secure. He didn't want to compromise the sound since he felt this would be his best opportunity to end the investigation. The thought of the drugs slipping through because he wasn't able to end everything was unacceptable in Danny's mind. With the wire in place, Dan checked himself in the mirror and was satisfied that the wire couldn't be detected. He then ran out of the house to join Price in the jeep.
"Who is your friend Dale? Who is the mainland connection?" Danny asked as he held on for his life. Danny wasn't sure who was the worse driver...Steve or Price! Equal, he decided.
Price glanced at Danny and smiled, "No one you need to concern yourself with just yet. Let's just say he is a very bright man!"
Danny knew he could bring Brighton's name up and have Price confirm it, but he knew it could be thrown out in court as coercement. Price would have to say the name without being given any prompting as to Brighton's actual name. He had to think of another way to do it.
As they arrived at the camp, Price and Danny made their way to the plant. The boy's were busy getting everything ready and placing the manufactured drugs into boxes marked Ho'omaka 'ana Fruits and Flowers.
Price told Danny of the process from beginning to end. Once again, all names were left out. Everything Danny could possibly want to know about the organization was revealed with pride and arrogance.
"My plan Danny is to grow this operation. Once I have enough money, I will add other locations. I will have each plant run for me and I can sit back and relax! Enjoy the fruits of my labor!" Price smiled as he looked at Danny. "I want you to help me. This plant will be yours. After I build my organization, I'll have you manage them all for me...but I will give you this one."
Danny looked incredulous as he listened to Price. "Why would you give this to me Dale?"
Price stopped and patted Danny on his back. His reply took on a note of surprise, "To keep you honest Danny. If you have a part of the action, you won't do to me, what I'm doing to my mainland friend....and you'll be in it just as deep as I am."
"So you're taking over his action. Why, because he isn't here to baby-sit his operation?"
"Very observant. He can't be here, so he hired me to tend his shop. All he's giving me for my hard work is the prostitution and theft ring." Price looked around in disgust, "That was already mine. It just needed to be fine-tuned. He laid out the plan for this operation, but I was the one who had to do all the work. I built this with my own hands! Not to mention my persuasive and charming personality." Price laughed but it was clear he truly believed what he said.
As Price was talking Steve was getting everything on tape. The wire was working perfectly and he couldn't be more pleased at how Danny was working Price.
By the time they were ready to go Danny had everything he needed...everything but Brighton's name. As soon as he got back to the house, he hid the wire and called Steve to see if his quick wiring job worked. He was pleased to hear that it was a success. During the conversation Danny thought he heard Price approaching in the hallway. Quickly ending the conversation, Danny went to his door and opened it just as Price stopped, ready to knock.
"Why is it you make so many phone calls Danny? I know you made one when you got to the house yesterday...and another one before we left this morning." Price asked suspicious.
"You know I'm trying to get things straight with my grandfather, why are you so paranoid? I mean you're the one who has encouraged me to try mend things with him." Danny bluffed.
"You called your grandfather this morning Danny? Wasn't it early?"
Looking at Price, Danny rolled his eyes as if he were bored and Price didn't have a clue, "I was told to call him today and I wanted him to know I wouldn't be able to. I don't want to blow things now that I'm getting closer to winning his trust."
"Seems he would be very upset with you calling him so early." Price continued not convinced with Danny's act.
"He does have a staff." Danny smiled with an evil gleam in his eye. "I wouldn't dare wake my grandfather so early...but I have absolutely no problem waking his good for nothing aide...Mr. Steve." Danny turned as if the conversation were ended.
"So who were you talking to just then?"
"The ever famous Mr. Steve! Who else!" Taking a deep breath for show, Danny plopped on the bed intentionally trying to show he was jealous. "He said my grandfather stepped out and was expected back any minute. My grandfather will confide in him, but not me."
Price was finally convinced. "I want you to go get Leilani and bring her here in time to see the shipment. Things are happening fast and I don't want her alone. Besides, maybe it'll give you a chance to work out your frustrations. When you're used to being with a woman whenever you want, it's hard to be without her when she isn't available to you." Price laughed.
Before Price left Danny smiled and agreed. Inwardly he knew it wouldn't be Leilani he would search out. "I'm going to call my grandfather one more time...just so that you know. Then I'll be ready to leave."
When Danny was certain Price was out of hearing range, he placed one last call to Steve. The phone barely rang when Steve answered. Danny could hear the edge in his voice so he reassured him all was well.
"Price does suspect something is up Steve. But I think I know just how to use it to get him to talk."
"What exactly are you talking about?"
"He asked about the calls and I think I convinced him everything was OK. But I want to make him nervous...maybe play on him some. I thought about making him think I work for Brighton. But to do it, Leilani will have to see me and that's where I need help."
"Danno, I'm not so sure about this. Playing with the likes of Price is too risky."
"Steve I don't know of any other way to push him into talking before the shipment can leave. No way we can let it go. And that's the beauty of it all. If the shipment doesn't leave, then every camp monitor involved with Brighton will take some sort of action. I think they will bust into the plant to see what the delay is. At the very minimum, one will at least call Brighton to tell him there is trouble."
Steve knew it would work, but he also knew it could mean Danny's life and he wasn't willing to let that happen. "No Danno, I'll think of something else. I'm not leaving you open like that."
"Steve there isn't anything else. With it going down so fast, it's the only thing that will work." Danny hesitated for a moment to let it sink in before he gave Steve the rest of his idea. "I was thinking you should go to the Director's office and lay it on the line right now. Let him know what's going on. Then you can pull your forces around the camp. No one will think anything about seeing cops hanging around! When we have enough on everyone involved, you'll be in position to rush in. So you see Steve, you'll just be minutes away if I get into any trouble."
Still convinced that unnecessary chances were being taken on Danny's life, Steve had to admit to himself that the plan was the only way to close the case. Steve put his hand up to his face and rubbed his eyes. Danny was new and this was his first assignment, how could he let someone so young take control like this. 'He may be young, but I chose him because of his ability and my trust in him. Now it's time to either pull him or continue to let him be the officer I know he is.' Steve wanted to abort the case...he didn't understand why Danny affected him the way he did. His life meant more to him than he understood. It went beyond caring for his men and Steve could see it, but he didn't understand it. Shaking his head in an attempt to rid himself of the turmoil he felt inside, he knew it was time for a hard decision. Not one based on feelings, but on expertise. Danny was the best cop Steve thought he ever met. His instincts were sharp and on target. He had a maturity and drive that Steve had found remarkable in a man so young. 'Danno is a cop, and not just an ordinary cop. He's a 5-0 detective.' Steve knew that being 5-0 meant his men were the best and he had to trust them. Danny was there and he wasn't, so Danny needed to call the shots regardless of how much Steve feared for his safety. Realizing he would be no different if he were in Danny's position, Steve suddenly felt a connection to Danny.
"OK Danno, we'll do it your way. Just..."
"I'll be careful Steve, just don't be late." Danny added with a serious humor.
Leilani was waiting for Danny at the helicopter pad. He thought he would dread this meeting, but instead he had a renewed energy. He wondered if Price hadn't talked, would he still continue the farce with Leilani. Deep inside he knew he wouldn't. Danny had no problem with getting close to anyone, but he would not allow himself to be treated the way he was being treated. He knew he had encouraged it and that was a mistake. In the future, he wouldn't make that mistake again.
As Leilani approached she smiled seductively and toyed with the buttons on her blouse. When Danny was close enough she reached out to hug him but Danny caught both of her wrists in his and pulled her gently away.
"Stop." Seeing that she was moving back Danny let go of her and looked around to see if there was a more private place for them to talk. Spotting a bench outside the gates under a tree, Danny took her hand and led her there so he could try to explain. Danny brushed off the bench and motioned for her to sit and he sat next to her. Despite the fact Leilani was deeply involved in illegal activities, Danny felt she deserved the truth about how he felt. He had given her signals that he wanted her. He used her to get a solid hold into their organization and he had taken it too far. He was responsible for the direction the relationship had gone. But he wouldn't back down and he needed her to understand.
"Leilani, I'm sorry, but I'm not interested in getting involved in a relationship. I have a career that I am devoting all of my energies to. That doesn't leave room for the time I feel should be put into a relationship. I know I've mislead you and that was wrong." Danny tried to be as compassionate and honest as he could, without exposing the operation.
"Danny, that's fine with me. I've never been after a relationship." Leilani replied condescendingly. "It'll just make our teasing and sex more interesting....more fun." She smiled as she moved closer to Danny in an attempt to caress him privately. Danny once again took her hands and moved them away.
"No Leilani. This is not what I want." Danny wasn't sure what to say without hurting her feelings.
"It's what I want Danny." Leilani smiled as she once again reached for Danny and began to massage him through his jeans. She smiled as she felt Danny responding, "and I can feel it's what you want." Leilani giggled lightly as she continued to rub Danny even though he was trying to move away. Finally Danny stood and moved out of her reach. Trying to regain his composure he hated himself for being aroused by her touch.
"Leilani, I don't want to be involved with you. I'm sorry, I don't want a personal relationship in any form. It will only cause us problems and I'm not willing to jeopardize what I've worked so hard to complete."
"If you're worried about Dale, don't. Dale thinks we've already had sex. He likes the idea of you and me. He doesn't have to know that sex is the only thing we see in each other. And if you don't want me for a serious relationship that's fine. I'm more interested in what you can do to me than I am in what you can do for me." Leilani said as she stood and again reached for Danny.
"STOP!" Danny said not believing what he just heard. He knew guys who had said that same thing to women...heard them bragging. He never liked it. He certainly didn't like the way it sounded from Leilani. "Leilani, I don't want to be involved in any way. I'm trying to be nice and I don't want to hurt you. But you aren't listening! I don't want you to touch me, or pursue me in any way or for any reason other than business. Leilani, I don't want a relationship with you. Physical or emotional."
The rage inside of her began to build up and just as suddenly disappeared. Instead of anger, she could feel the excitement of her passion heightened. Never before had she been turned down by anyone. She knew in time, she could change Danny's mind. 'I'll play the game...one day the time will be perfect and Danny will do anything I want. This could be fun!'
"OK, Danny, your point has been taken. I'm sorry you feel that way. It could have been fun. If you change your mind....don't hesitate to just do...whatever." She said with a smile as she caressed his cheek. "In the meantime we have a business to grow. And I hope Dale and I can count on your support."
Relieved Danny hadn't hurt her and he hadn't compromised the operation he decided he would continue with his honesty, "Leilani, you and Dale both have my full attention. I will do everything I can to ensure your business meets a potential beyond your imagination. That's what I want to see happen!"
Leilani had made excuses after they reached the house and disappeared for several hours. When she came back she made it more than a little obvious that she had worked her physical frustrations out with a more than willing partner. She even went so far as to tell Danny she was sure he would have been a more exciting partner, then asked him to go to her favorite Downtown boutique with her in the same breath. Danny couldn't believe what he was hearing and was thankful he was out of that situation. He felt the outing would provide the perfect opportunity for Leilani to witness a meeting with Keegan. With any luck, maybe she'll form the impression that Danny works for Brighton. As soon as he could, he called Steve with the name of he boutique and was assured that Keegan would be there
As soon as he hung up with Danny, Steve called Duke to make the arrangements. "Price knows Keegan worked for Brighton. Maybe his vivid imagination will work overtime and think Keegan still does if his sister reports seeing Danny with him. I don't want Keegan to suspect anything though. Send him along with one other member of his group and two other officers you know for certain are clean. Tell them we want them there as backup for Danno. I don't want you there Duke so have Keegan the lead man. If Price and his sister know 5-0 at all, they could connect you to us and that'll hurt Danno's cover."
"That and it will appear as though Keegan is the one Danny is searching out...without Keegan suspecting," Duke added in appreciation of the plan.
Danny wanted to be sure Leilani saw him with Keegan, but he also wanted it to appear as though the meeting was secret. While in the shop he intentionally acted restless which didn't alarm Leilani. 'How many men weren't restless in a woman's shop...unless it was lingerie...then they were out right scared!' Leilani thought to herself.
Danny knew he had Leilani's attention and he also knew she would continue her teasing him. There was no doubt in his mind that she would search him out while she tried on the clothes she selected. As soon as she went to try on an outfit he went out and met with Keegan. He chose a spot he felt could be easily seen from the shop, but where Keegan couldn't see inside. Otherwise he might see Leilani and the entire operation would be over.
Danny began to carry on a casual conversation with Keegan and the others until he noticed from his peripheral vision that Leilani was watching.
Surprised at Danny's appearance, Keegan couldn't resist commenting. "Five-0 screwed up another stake out Williams?" He remarked sarcastically then added, "probably can't see the bad guy for all that hair in your eyes!"
"It's not a stake out Keegan, it was an interview and Steve wanted you here in case we turned up anything. Not that you need to know." Danny knew that would put a chip on Keegan's shoulder as well as his sidekick. The other two officers only laughed. They put up with Keegan and his group only because they were cops. But no one in HPD felt a loyalty to them, in fact many of the officers felt HPD would be a better place to work without their type. "Chin and Kono are still inside but there's nothing here. You guys can leave, it's a scratch!"
"Hey Danny, man I can't believe Steve let you get away with the new hair style! He going soft or something!?" Officer Cleaf was a good-hearted man and surfed with Danny and Kono many times.
Danny laughed, "It's driving him crazy! He wants me to go on an assignment and doesn't want me to look like a cop so he told me to grow my hair out. You wouldn't believe how many times he's been tempted to abort the assignment just so he can have me get it cut!"
Cleaf and his partner laughed. Keegan only stared in contempt.
"I can't believe you pulled us off our beat for this!" Keegan scoffed.
Danny looked the man in the eye and grinned, "Honolulu IS your beat Officer Keegan. Can't believe you didn't know that." Danny couldn't hide the grin as he turned and walked back to the boutique. 'If only you knew Keegan...soon you won't have a beat to worry about!'
Leilani slipped away from the window so Danny wouldn't notice her. She knew who Keegan was and wondered why he was there. She didn't give much thought to the meeting thinking her brother must have told Danny about the man. She also recognized one other cop, but not the other two. Leilani shrugged and felt Danny was serious about wanting to do his part in helping her and Dale. 'But all work and no play...' Soon she knew she would have Danny. 'After we get this shipment out of the way and our own funds begin to roll in, Danny will get bored. That's when I'll show my interest in him again. Until then, I'll play the game. Besides, it could be fun!'
"Where were you?" Leilani asked innocently.
"I don't like shopping, so I went for air. Look it's getting late and I want to get back to the Big Island in time for the shipment. Are you done here?"
"Cool your heals lover," Leilani laughed as she handed Danny several items and walked to the cashier.
Once on the Big Island, Danny went with Leilani to the house. She wanted to put her luggage up and he wanted to set the wire. He took a little longer than usual because of his nerves. He knew Leilani understood how he felt about them, but he also knew how bold she was. One intimate touch and everything could blow up in his face. Once satisfied that the wire was set he softly repeated the words of Steve McGarrett. "Be careful Danno!" He then reached for the phone and dialed.
Steve spoke as soon as he answered, "Everything here is set, the minute you give the word we'll move in."
"I figure if I can stall the operation for at least 30 minutes, it should be enough for Brighton's camp monitors to get nervous...maybe they will venture in to see what the delay is."
"I have several HPD officers already in place inside the camp and on the compound. So there should be no undue suspicion. If any monitors try to make a call, we have the switchboard set up to intercept. That way we'll know who they are calling, but the call won't go through. If it's a legitimate call, then they can try again after we're done."
"Are you going to intercept calls after this is over?" Danny asked in case they miss anyone.
"The switchboard will be in our control until we have Brighton in custody. I'm not going to risk him getting away from us. Are you ready? How are you feeling?" Steve asked. He knew Danny was ready, he just hoped Danny knew it.
"I'm nervous, but I plan on using that to my advantage. I'm ready Steve. Don't worry, I won't let you down."
Steve couldn't help but smile. 'He doesn't need to try and impress me...he's achieved that already. Otherwise he wouldn't be with 5-0.' Taking a deep breath the head of 5-0 needed to reassure Danny of his confidence in his ability to do the job, "You'll do just fine Danno. If I had any doubts, you wouldn't be there. Just...well...be careful!" Steve said as he laughed lightly then hung up.
Everything was ready to be moved onto the trucks. Price had told Danny that the Director was under the impression that they were shipping some of their flowers and produce to the mainland as part of his program. "He believes we sell our goods for what it costs to ship and replace what we ship out. So he never sees any money and doesn't ask questions about how we are able to maintain everything. Since there is no cost to the camp or the State, he doesn't nose around! But we have a few legit things leaving, just in case." Price explained.
As Leilani approached the two men Danny spotted Tommy. He didn't want him there and wanted to warn him to stay away. Telling Price he wanted to look around, he left the siblings alone. He also knew Leilani would mention his meeting with Keegan to her brother. This would play on Price's suspicions and Danny thought it could work to his advantage.
The minute Danny was out of hearing range Leilani became enraged. "I know you wanted to tell Danny about the operation, but I can't believe you gave him names so soon in the game. Are you beginning to slip big brother!"
"I'm sure you don't know what you're talking about little sister, and don't forget who's heading this game as you put it!" Price wasn't used to his sister talking to him like this and the few times she did he corrected her immediately. Only this time they were around the 'hired help', so he would be sure to continue her discipline once they were in private.
"I'm talking about Keegan," Leilani replied knowing full well what her brother would do to her later. But she didn't care. She felt he had endangered their operation and she had worked too hard to just let it go.
"What about Keegan?!" Price replied agitated.
"I went to the boutique and I saw Danny talking with Keegan and that silly helper of his. There were two other cops there as well!" Looking around she was satisfied no one could hear them. She turned to her brother for emphasis, "it looked like a friendly meeting if you get my drift."
"I did tell Danny about our operation. But not until after the two of you enjoyed your little liaison, I figured by then it would be safe to tell him." Price turned to his sister with a bitter glare as he continued, "But I did NOT give any names. Not a single one!"
"Well I don't know why it was so important for you to tell Danny about our operation after you knew we had sex. So here's another little chip at your armor...we haven't done anything!"
Price was incredulous that he could be deceived so easily. "You said you saw him with Keegan?"
"What of it Dale? He's involved enough that he can't hurt us. I just wonder how he knew about Keegan." Leilani replied as she began to look around the facility to see where Danny was.
"I know how he knows. He was placed here! How else could he know about Keegan." Price couldn't believe how easily he accepted Danny. That he let his guard down to the point he so easily welcomed Danny. The anger Price felt was growing.
"What do you mean placed?" Leilani said in disgust.
Ignoring her question, Price continued to speak what was going through his mind, "Well it's not too late! By now Brighton must know what I'm doing."
"Brighton? You think Brighton sent Danny!? That's great Dale, and you told him everything! So what are you going to do?"
Finally hearing his sister, Price glared into her eyes with conviction, "We'll make a shipment to satisfy Brighton, but we'll keep enough to finance our dreams. I'll call in all my enforcers and have them placed in this camp as monitors. Once we get our money, I'll relocate this plant and Brighton can't do anything about it. He steps foot on this island, I'll personally call the police and tell them! Besides, by the time he gets here we'll be long gone from this plant."
"Dale, he'll come looking for us!" Leilani's doubt at his plan only fumed her brother's anger.
"You don't think I can do it! You think I can't handle a nothing like Brighton! He came to me little sister...I didn't go to him! He was smart not to trust me...but he's too late!"
"Kaeli'i, don't look up at me!" Danny whispered as he came up behind Tommy. "I want you to get out of here and do it now."
"Danny, you forget where I'm at! You put me in this situation, you and your so called justice system!" Tommy argued back not looking at Danny.
"Don't give me the sob story Kaeli'i! I told you the truth...none of us abandoned you. The mail we sent was either stopped at Family Services or here. But it was sent. After this is over I'll find out what's going on. Until then, you have to trust me and I don't have time to beg."
Danny noticed Price coming his way and tried to distance himself from Tommy without bringing attention to the teenager. But Price was fueled by anger and was on Danny before he could get very far.
"I know who you are and I can't express enough how disappointed I am. It's not too late you know Danny. We can still continue with my plan and you will have more money than Brighton can even begin to offer you!" Price did his best to act as though he wasn't angry and wanted the deal to work out. However, he was doing a bad acting job and his anger more than obvious. In order to get Price to talk, Danny would continue with the charade.
"I don't know what you're talking about Dale. If I've disappointed you somehow I want to know how so I can correct it. You know I'm completely dedicated to my job..."
"Cut the crap Danny!" Price yelled no longer trying to hide his contempt or who heard him. "I know Brighton sent you! He was smart sending you and not trusting me. I imagine he's angry you got in so easily. So as your reward he'll give you the operation I've worked so hard to build! I'm out, you're in! Is that what Brighton promised you?"
"I don't know what you're talking about Dale. You're talking crazy." Danny replied very calmly which only made Price's anger more intense.
Hearing the exchange, Steve had officers surround the outskirts of the facility and stand by to rush in. Officers inside the camp were instructed to take their positions in case any monitors tried to make an outside call.
"You were talking to Keegan! Only way you would know to talk to Keegan is if Karl Brighton told you he was on his payroll!"
With the mention of Keegan's name several of the boy's stopped what they were doing to watch the confrontation. Tommy realized what Danny had been telling him was true. He couldn't believe he had allowed himself to doubt Danny or the Punana's. He felt guilty for his doubt and self-pity...but he was more frightened at the scene unfolding before him. He saw the perilous situation Danny was in and somehow felt partially responsible.
"I want Keegan and the others watched NOW!" Steve ordered as soon as he heard Keegan's name. "Don't let them know they're being followed until I have all the names of those on Brighton's list. Last thing I need is for one of them to call Brighton. Get a warrant on Brighton and get extradition papers started, but try to keep those in the know to a minimum. If possible, I don't want the coconut wireless getting wind of this until it's over."
"You want us to go in Steve?" Kono's voice asked through the radio.
"Not yet, hold everyone steady until I say go in. Price could name a few more people. But be ready. This whole thing is about to blow," Steve replied with steady nerves.
Leilani joined her brother, informing him it was time for them to move the merchandise. Danny knew he had to stall long enough for the monitors to check out the delay.
"You're right Dale. I did misrepresent myself." Danny was careful not to let on he was a cop. He also wanted to be sure he didn't mention any names or even imply them. "I also have another bit of information for you. This merchandise isn't going anywhere. I cleared it with the boss already and he agrees. This shipment will stay right here until he gives the word. Then it will go where he says it will go!" Danny didn't tell a single lie. Steve was his boss and he promised Danny the shipment wouldn't be made.
Price continued to give more information to prove Danny wrong. Danny only hoped his wire was still working. Otherwise, there was no way he could remember all the names and details.
"No way am I going to allow you to stop this shipment my friend. I have too much riding on this and it's going." Price looked over to his sister who handed him a leather pouch. Opening the pouch Price produced a syringe filled with an unknown substance and ready for injection. Looking over to the group of boys standing near Tommy, Price called them over and signaled them to hold Danny down. Before Danny could say anything several boys grabbed him and held him tightly. He was surprised, but also relieved, when no one discovered the wire. He decided it was their fear of Price and all that was going on that they couldn't tell. Unfortunately one had him by the throat and he wasn't able to talk...there was no way he could warn Steve or call for help.
"What's going on?" Chin asked, Steve knowing something was happening but not sure exactly what.
"Sounds like the microphone is scratching against his shirt. But I'm not sure. But I am sure I don't like it," Steve replied as he reached for his radio. "Kono, any movement from the monitors outside the plant?"
"None yet Boss. They do look a little antsy though," Kono replied as he peered through his binoculars.
"I don't want to rush in there before Danny is ready, but I don't like the fact they aren't talking!"
"Maybe there is a problem with the wire?" Chin offered.
"No, that's not it. I can hear background noises perfectly." Steve was worried and he didn't care who knew it. The fact that Danny wasn't talking, not to mention the two Price's, indicated to Steve there was a problem. But if Danny was in danger he would say something, otherwise they would have noticed the wire. His instincts told him to move in, but something held him back.
As Price prepared Danny's arm for the injection, Danny knew that struggling would be useless. Just then Price stood and smiled. He motioned for Tommy to come to him. "You do it." Price ordered the wide-eyed teenager as the syringe was handed to Tommy. Tommy turned and looked pale as a ghost.
Price pulled out a gun and pointed it at Tommy's head. "DO IT!" Price yelled at him.
Tommy came close to Danny with a wild, frightened look on his face. Tears began to roll down his cheeks. Danny was finally free enough to speak. He knew there wouldn't be enough time for Steve to get to him, so he had to get on tape what was going on. No way he would allow Tommy to take the fall for his death.
"What's the matter Dale," Danny struggled with the words trying to make his voice clear. "You don't know how to stick a needle in my arm. Or is it you don't have the guts to inject me with that poison? So instead you have to hold a gun against a boy's head to force him to do your dirty work! You're a coward Dale...such a coward!"
"Shut up!!! DO IT...NOW!" Price yelled at Tommy once again. Looking around, Price grabbed one of the smaller boys. He moved the gun from Tommy's head and thrust it against the boy's head. "I'll kill him if you don't do it." Price warned Tommy with a smile.
Hearing the exchange Steve no longer cared about the camp monitors. He wasted no time ordering the police to move into action. "MOVE...NOW...MOVE!"
Danny knew Price meant it. Looking Tommy in the eyes he spoke as calmly as he could. "Do it, he'll kill him."
"He'll kill him no matter!" Tommy spoke in a tormented tone close to hysterics.
"Kaeli'i, it's all right." Danny spoke softly only for him.
"How chivalrous Danny!" Price mocked. "You are not getting my operation! You hear me!! You think you can stroll in here, do a number on me and my sister, and move in like a member of the family don't you! Well you wasted your time!"
"He isn't going to keep you man!" Danny yelled back knowing he had to buy time. "He was using you and you're all used up!"
"I don't need Brighton anymore. I got my own piece of the pie...Brighton can have what he started. He can have the prostitutes AND the theft ring! All I want is the dope!" Price took a step back dragging the boy with him and began to yell even louder at Danny, "You work for him and I know it! He was smart to not trust me...but stupid to send in a baby like you! Inject him and do it now!"
Tommy realized what Danny was doing...he also realized Danny was willing to die for people he didn't even know. Whatever doubts he had, they were gone now. 'Danny isn't like me, or any of the others working here.' Tommy thought as he looked deep into the blue eyes of Dan Williams. For the first time he really understood what Danny and the Punana's had been trying to teach him.
Looking at Tommy, Danny had to reassure him everything would be all right. Once again he spoke softly so that only Tommy could hear, "Kaeli'i, inject me and then push the other boy away from Price. Then you get out of the way."
Tommy could no longer see Danny's arm through his tears. He heard Danny and nodded his head not trusting his voice. As he brought the needle against Danny's arm, he pulled back yelling. "NO! I CAN'T! I WON'T! I won't hurt my brother!"
Price was shocked. One of the boys who was holding Danny dropped his grip. Danny immediately pulled away from the other boys and lunged at Price knocking the gun from his hand. Tommy ran to where the gun fell and aimed it at Price.
Several of the camp monitors on Brighton's payroll saw the police closing in and ran to the drug facility. A few others stayed behind to try and fight the cops off. However, it took the officers no time to have them under their control.
The other monitors busted into the facility with a great force. One monitor grabbed Leilani while another came up behind Tommy and tackled him. When Tommy hit the ground, the gun went off.
Fear gripped Steve when he heard a gun go off and then the hysterical cries from Tommy through his receiver. No longer able to just stand by, he ran from the camp to where the drug facility was.
The police stormed into the facility, easily overcoming the monitors. By the time Steve arrived, the situation was under control.
Price lay on the ground cursing the officers and demanding medical attention for his bleeding wound as he was searched for other weapons. The officers were careful not to disturb the stomach area where Price had been shot and was bleeding badly. Leilani was frantic at seeing her brother, but wasn't allowed to go to him. Instead she was taken outside where a policewoman was standing by.
Steve headed straight for Danny who was struggling without success to sit up. Blood drenched the side of his shirt.
"Danno!" Steve grabbed him, "Lay down Danno, take it easy."
"It's not bad Steve. The bullet went through. Just barely got me...just enough to hurt like..." Danno didn't finish the sentence as he winced from the pain. "Missed the tape....hope I got everything."
"Yeah, with the other evidence you've gotten, the tape will put a seal on it. Just relax Danno, help is on the way."
"Tommy, where's Tommy?"
Steve looked around and saw that cuffs were being placed on Tommy's wrist. "No, he's one of us." Steve called out to the officer. The officer looked at Steve and waved. He removed the cuffs and let Tommy go.
Running to get to Danny, Steve put his hand on the boy's arm as he dropped to the ground. Steve smiled and patted the boy's arm. "It's OK Tommy. Danno's going to be fine."
"Danny, I'm sorry...I'm so sorry." Tommy began to cry again. He didn't know what more to say for all the ugly things he felt and thought about Danny and the Punana's. Knowing he was the one responsible for Danny's injury made his sorrow nearly unbearable.
"Kaeli'i don't...don't do that. You're alone and separated from the ones who love you." Danny was struggling with his words. "Don't worry about it, OK?"
Danny was clearly in pain but Steve did nothing to stop the conversation. He somehow understood how important it was.
"Kaeli'i, you have to understand. We care deeply for you. I don't know what happened to our letters, but we sent them. You gave us your trust once, now we are asking for your faith."
The boy began to calm down as the words sunk in. He knew Danny was telling him the truth and the shame was beginning to leave. Looking at the pain Danny was in, another wave of guilt rushed over him.
"I shot you!"
Danny managed a smile, "Yeah! And it hurts!"
Tommy smiled and even caught himself snickering. The admiration he felt for Danny was overwhelming. For the first time in his life he knew what it felt like to belong and to be part of a family.
The medics arrived and were preparing to put Danny on the stretcher. Danny reached out to Tommy and squeezed his hand.
Steve was going to the hospital with Danny but wanted to be sure everything was taken care of on the site. Danny did a good job, he didn't want to mess it up now. He also wanted to see that the boys were interviewed to match up the names of the HPD officers involved. Steve and Tommy followed the stretcher out to the ambulance where Kono and Chin met them. Both men wanted to go with Danny also, but knew they needed to finish up at the camp.
"Don't worry about anything here Steve." Kono informed his boss while not taking his eyes off Danny.
"Let us know about Danny as soon as you can," an equally concerned Chin replied as the stretcher carrying Danny was loaded into the ambulance. "We know what to do here."
Steve stepped into the ambulance not sure how to thank his men. Confident that they would secure the site, he assured them he would notify them as soon as he knew anything.
It had been several hours before Doc Bergman came out of the emergency room. Though Steve had mentioned that Danny was working undercover and they were headed for the Big Island, he was surprised to see the State Medical Examiner/5-0 physician there.
"Did you think I wouldn't be here?" the older man asked Steve with a smile.
"If you're smiling, then Danno must be all right!"
The doctor patted Steve on the shoulder and guided him to the emergency room where Danny was being treated.
Steve found it amusing that Danny was awake, but clearly no longer in any pain.
"You OK, Danno?" Steve asked knowing the answer already.
"Good drugs!" Danny smiled.
Steve smiled and felt the tension of the events begin to leave. Looking to Doc he waited for the prognosis.
"Well the bullet nicked Price pretty good before it hit Danny in the side. No damage, but there is significant blood loss. We're giving him a transfusion as you can see...among other things! We'll be keeping him for a couple of days and then he can go home." Doc laughed as he saw Danny grimace at the news of a hospital stay.
"Thanks Doc. We owe you again!" Steve replied with a sigh of relief.
"They'll be in to get him in a minute, stay with him if you like." As Doc left the room he felt old beyond his years. Too much had happened to his boys, as he fondly thought of the 5-0 men. The past months took a toll on all of them. He didn't know how much more a body could take, but he was sure his boys would test the limits. And he would be there to take care of each one.
Steve took a seat at the chair near Danny, feeling the pride he had in the young man. "Good work!" Steve said in appreciation of the talented young detective in front of him. "I guess you'll be out of work for a few weeks."
"Yeah, I guess so. Sorry about that Steve." Danny's eyes cleared as his facial expression turned serious. "Tommy didn't do anything Steve. The gun fired after that monitor crashed into him. He won't be brought up on any charges will he?"
"No Danno, Tommy is fine. The way I heard it from the wire, he tried to help you." Steve looked down at the floor and back at Danno with a smirk on his face. "I heard Leilani claimed to know nothing about you until she found out you were a cop. Then she tried to claim immunity since the two of you had a sexual relationship."
Danny just about sat up on that one. "No Way! No, Steve...we didn't!"
Steve laughed and decided he better not let this one hang. "Well when she heard she could be prosecuted from the evidence we had and the statement her brother made, she said that you tried to pursue her but she didn't have anything to do with you."
"She said what!?" Danny couldn't believe what he was hearing. "She was all OVER me Steve! I couldn't even..." Danny looked at Steve in disbelief. "You think you're funny don't you. Here I am, near death, blood being pumped into my veins to replace the dramatic loss from a severe gunshot wound and at the brink of unconsciousness...and you're teasing me!"
Steve laughed, "You're at the brink of unconsciousness because of those 'good' drugs you're on!"
"It's a tight case Danno." Steve finally gave in. "No loose ends either. While I was waiting to see you, I heard from Chin. The boys gave up several HPD names...same ones we had. We believe we got all of the camp monitors involved. And...we have Brighton along with a few of his top men."
"Do you think we can get Brighton back here for a trial? He's pretty rich and powerful, his attorney's could hang this thing out for years."
"I talked to the Governor and the DA when you went under. I've been told that Hawaii will not back down. We have a commitment for as long as it takes. Brighton will eventually be ours," Steve assured him.
"Who at HPD was involved?" Danny asked not sure he wanted to hear the answer. "I know Jones was when he was alive, and Keegan is."
"Well, Keegan was the leader after Jones died. The others were Marks, Piala, Tridan, and Evans. You look about as surprised as I did." Steve remarked sarcastically.
The two men were interrupted as the orderly and a nurse came to take Danny to his room. Steve followed them and watched as Danny drifted off to sleep after he was settled in. Once again he felt a wave of deep pride in the good job his youngest member accomplished. When he chose Danny for the position in 5-0 he was met with opposition from the Governor. Steve insisted on him and this case was proof of his good judgment.
Director Lee greeted Danny at the main doorway into the Youth Camp. "How are you Mr. Williams?" He asked as he held the door open for the recovering detective.
"Getting better every day! I can't tell you how much I appreciate you allowing Tommy to come visit me in the hospital," Danny stated as he shook the Director's hand.
"How could I say no to Mr. McGarrett!" the Director laughed. "I guess in a way, he's my boss. Besides, I owe you and 5-0 a debt of gratitude for finding out what was going on. Still can't believe I was so blind and could allow something like that to happen. I always felt I was fairly involved with the operations of the camp...guess that showed me just how wrong I was!"
"You allowed a program into the camp that you felt would help the boys in feeling they could accomplish something. It was a great idea. Maybe you shouldn't abandon it. Instead pick it up and use it as a teaching tool."
"I've thought about it. The drug facility would be a perfect place to use also. Just not sure for what!"
"Just clear participants through the State. They can do a background check for you. It will be more extensive than what you have set up. It's really a shame that you have to do all that, isn't it?" Danny added. He knew the Director took a direct hit from the Governor over what had happened. Steve stepped in and supported the Director. Danny knew that was probably the only thing that saved his job. He also felt the Director knew it.
Danny was escorted to the visiting area where Tommy was already waiting. While in the hospital, the Punanas visited Danny and Tommy was allowed to join them. They were all able to talk to Tommy and reinforce their devotion to him.
Steve later found out that one of the monitors who had been arrested, held all mail going to the boys working in the drug facility. The mail was located and immediately distributed to each young man. Tommy was near tears when he saw what was sent to him. Letters, cards and even packages from Danny and all of the Punanas. Looking at the postmarks, he believed he had something sent to him just about every day from someone. Just like Danny told him.
"Hi Kaeli'i!" Danny reached out to shake the young mans hand. Instead of a handshake Tommy reached back and hugged Danny. This time it was Danny who felt tears stinging the back of his eyes.
PAU