Part 42
Sea Haven Pine Knoll Shores 2335 Local
Gibbs stared out onto the deck where the wind was driving torrents of rain nearly sideways. He turned back towards the room and leveled a glare at Marius, "You trust your people, right?"
Marius scowled, "If I didn't, they wouldn't be here. They know their jobs."
"They'd better." Gibbs turned away and resumed his restless pacing.
"For godsakes, Gibbs, sit down. You're making everyone crazy," Harm finally snapped. If he was being entirely truthful, he would have used the term 'pissed off' and amended his list to exclude Mac. NCIS agent's behavior wasn't making her mad or annoyed but it was starting to scare the hell out of her and that just made Harm angrier.
The older man turned towards the Navy Commander, his gaze intense, "You want to talk crazy, Rabb? Look out the window, a person would have to be nuts to be out in a storm like this. Know anybody who fits that description?"
"So? What does it matter? The visibility's nil out there. Unless she's packing an RPG, she hasn't got a target. If Elbert's skulking around the underbrush during a storm like this, let her. Maybe she'll drown or get hit by lightning."
Gibbs stared at him, "How the hell did you survive this long, Rabb? Underestimating Elbert is what got us in trouble the first time."
Harm climbed to his feet, "You think I don't know that?" He stepped closer to the agent, "The difference is that I'm NOT underestimating us. She's one person, Gibbs. She's on the run while every law enforcement officer and every damn reporter on the eastern seaboard is trying to find her. I don't know how she got out of that house but you can bet she packed light. We've got twenty-four people here, fourteen of whom are armed. That's a lot of people to get through and this storm means she'd have to be right on top of us to have any kind of a shot. Elbert's not suicidal and she's not stupid. The odds right now are in our favor."
"She'll find a way to even the odds," Gibbs' jaw was tightly clenched.
"That's your opinion," Harm put both fists on his hips, "Let's say you're right about this. What exactly do you propose we do about it?" He gestured out the window, "Send everybody out in that mess to look for her? That should even things out - in her favor. We'd wind up shooting each other."
Gibbs moved closer, his tone soft and menacing, "What I'm proposing, Commander, is that we pack up and get out. Now. Go back to Lejeune where there are armed guards at every gate."
"No."
Both men turned to look at Mac. "Colonel... " Gibbs began quietly. The tone he used with Mac was entirely different, Harm noted. He couldn't decide if he was annoyed or grateful.
Mac shook her head, "If Mike can't get to us now, all she'll do is wait. A month from now, six months, a year - she'll come back to finish this. I can't live the rest of my life looking over my shoulder, waiting for her to make her move." She raised an eyebrow at him, "And you know Kate can't either."
She looked at Harm, "Gibbs is right, though. We should get everyone else out." She glanced over her shoulder at the storm, "If I were Mike, this is the time I would pick to strike."
"Would you define 'everyone' ma'am?" Gunny Walters spoke up from his spot in the corner.
Mac sighed as she turned towards Dubby. What she would prefer (and she knew it was impossible) would be to have everyone but her leave the building. It wasn't that she thought she was the only one capable of handling Mike. It was more the thought that she wouldn't be able to stand the guilt if someone else got hurt trying to protect her. Mike would derive a great deal of satisfaction from shooting Mac's friends in front of her. She hesitated, not daring to look at Harm, "Everyone except Gibbs... and Kate."
She got the dual explosion she was half expecting. Both men stared at her with identical incredulous expressions. "I am NOT leaving you!" "Kate is NOT staying here!" They spoke on top of each other and then exchanged glares.
Harm took half a step towards her, "You're out of your mind if you think you're going to face that lunatic without me watching your back!"
Mac wrapped her arms around herself. She knew this wasn't going to work but she had to try, "Harm, please. Nothing would make Mike happier than killing you in front of me."
His expression softened somewhat, "That works both ways, Mac." He mustered up a small grin, "So you can just forget about talking me into leaving. We're in this together, Sundance."
Mac nodded silently, torn between relief and worry. She did feel safer with Harm at her side but that didn't banish the truth of what Mike was capable of doing. She looked over at Gibbs who was still scowling at her and stiffened her spine, "Kate has to stay, Gibbs. You know that."
"The hell I do. She hasn't recovered from their last meeting and you want her to stay and face that woman again?"
"I think she needs to but that's not the reason." She held up a hand when he started to speak, "Mike is angry enough to kill me but Kate is the one she truly hates. You send Kate away with the others and there's a good chance that Mike will change course and go after her... and them."
Gibbs glared at her for a long moment before turning away to gaze out the window. Mac took his silence as agreement, an unhappy agreement to be sure, but an agreement. At least he wasn't still arguing with her. That left the others. She looked around the room at the men who'd done so much in the past to protect her and seemed quite willing to do it again, "It's the same for rest of you. You're all targets. Mike wants to kill me but if she can make me suffer through your deaths first, she will."
"Then we're safer here," Tink's heavy bass filled the silence that followed Mac's words.
"Tink's right," Pick's soft tenor provided yet another contrast to his friend. "The only way to get out quickly would be to cram everyone into the Suburbans. We'd be sitting ducks."
"Actually, 'fish in a barrel' would be a more apt metaphor." The precise British accent had everyone turning towards the stairs. Mallard came down and looked around the room before focusing on Gibbs, "I apologize if I'm intruding but I couldn't help overhearing." He followed the agent's gaze up the steps, "Caitlin's asleep, Jethro, although I can't guarantee for how long. She's a bit restless, no doubt from the storm. Did you realize that this house moves with the wind? It's almost like being at sea. Reminds me of the time I spent on an island off Guam... "
"Ducky... ." Gibbs' voice came out in a low growl. "How much did you hear?"
"All of it, of course. Really, Jethro, it wasn't like any of you were whispering." He adjusted his glasses and regarded his friend thoughtfully, "Sarah's right you know. If this is to be the final showdown with that Elbert woman, Kate needs to be here."
"As bait? Dammit, Duck, last night she couldn't get up the stairs without help. How the hell is she supposed to defend herself?"
"That was last night, Jethro," Ducky said gently. "She's stronger today and you, of all people, should realize just what she's capable of." He glanced around the room again, "Besides, it's not like she'll be alone."
Sea Haven Pine Knoll Shores, NC 0012 Local
Mike wiped the rain from her eyes and stared intently under the house. There had to be a guard there somewhere. It would be extremely foolish to leave the vehicles unwatched. There he was! She froze as his gaze turned in her direction. Even though there were almost constant flashes of lightning to illuminate the scene, she knew she'd be hard to see so long as she kept still. He was the third guard she'd seen. The other two were at either entrance to the building. Everyone else must be inside. That suited her fine. This man was the key.
Mike tensed as the guard finally turned his back on her and started down the perimeter of the house. It was time. Taking careful aim, she waited for the next lightning flash. As the thunder crashed, she squeezed off two rounds and watched with satisfaction as the man pitched forward. Hurrying out from her hiding place, she cautiously approached the unmoving body. Mike smiled to herself when she saw that both shots had struck home. One had hit him in the neck and the other squarely between the shoulder blades. If he wasn't dead, he was as good as. Quickly, she relieved him of his firearm and then searched him for any extra ammo. She found two extra clips and a back-up revolver in an ankle holster.
Going back to her original position, she retrieved the duffle bag. Moving to the Suburbans, she pulled out a 5 gallon gas can and poured a liberal amount inside of each, taking care not to splash any on herself. Removing the gas caps, she shoved a rag down each and poured gasoline on that as well. Pulling out a second gas can, she splashed the fuel on either side of the small utility shed and then moved to the front steps. Cautiously, she squinted up through the rain to see if anyone was standing on the stairs. Seeing that it was clear, she sprinted up to the first landing and poured the gas on the deck and then back down the stairs. She emptied what was left around one or two pilings. Shoving the empty container under the steps, she went back to the duffle again. Pulling out two roadside flares, she returned to the stairs. Igniting the first one, she pushed it into the sand under the first step and then yanked her hand away as the gasoline caught fire. Grinning, she repeated the action on the other side.
Hurrying back to the cars, she retrieved a fireplace lighter from the bag and carefully lit both rags. Flinging down the lighter, Mike bolted for the dunes in front of the house. Scrambling up, she cleared the top and flung herself down the far side. Scuttling sideways, she moved to where she could see both doors at the back of the house. Ignoring how the sand clung to her soaked clothes, Mike had to bite her lip to keep from laughing out loud. The familiar exhilaration was sweeping her body. God, this was better than sex! Drawing her pistol, she waited with eager anticipation for the destruction to begin. It didn't take long. Two huge explosions rocked the house within seconds of each other. Mike ducked as the shockwave passed over the dune and then popped back up. Spotting the security guard picking himself up off the deck, she squeezed off another two rounds. He hit the wall and then slowly collapsed. Mike smiled and shifted her aim to the doors. The residents should come boiling out like ants at any moment, especially when they discovered that their other exit was blocked.
"What the hell?" Harm shook his head as he pushed himself up off the floor. The lights were out and what he could see of the room looked like someone had picked it up and rattled it. Furniture was scattered, pictures were off the walls, most of the windows were cracked or broken. The street side of the house definitely looked worse. Hearing a moan, he turned to the left. "Mom? Frank?" They had been sitting near him and Mac, discussing wedding plans of all things. They had taken the news of Elbert's probable attack rather calmly, agreeing with Tink that staying in the house was undoubtedly safer than being caught on the road. 'Safer' had just become a relative term.
Frank rose carefully and then he and Harm gave Trish a hand up, "We're okay, Harm, just a little shaken I think. How in the hell did that woman get hold of explosives?"
"I don't... " Harm started, then stopped and stared at his parents, "... the cars. She must have set fire to the gas tanks." Frank nodded grimly.
"Harm?" Trish raised her head from where she'd been leaning against Frank's shoulder, "Where's Sarah?"
Harm tensed suddenly and turned, where was Mac? She had been heading for the kitchen for another cup of coffee when all hell had broken loose. Hurriedly, he excused himself and began threading his way through the debris, squinting into the darkness, "Mac?" His tone was low and urgent. Now that he was listening, he could hear moaning and a few quiet swear words coming from other parts of the room.
"Sir? Over here."
Harm hurriedly picked his way over to the sound of Tyler's voice. His relief knew no bounds when he could finally make out two figures sitting up against a wall. Carefully, he squatted next to them, mindful of the broken glass that seemed to be everywhere. "Mac? Pick? You two all right?" It was all he could do to keep from gathering Mac in his arms right then.
"I'm fine, Harm," there was a breathy quality to Mac's voice that belied her words.
"Couple of cuts and bruises, sir, but other than that, I think I'm okay. Has anyone checked next door?" Tyler sounded the better of the two.
"Not yet. I think we need to get our own status first and then we'll see about the others."
"I'll check with everyone, sir." Pick levered himself up and moved off into the other room.
Harm looked back at Mac, reaching out to touch her shoulder, "Okay, how are you really?"
There was a short silence and then, reluctantly, "I bruised my ribs. I think I hit a kitchen chair on my way down. I'll be fine in a minute. Are your parents okay?"
"Shook up a bit. Which side?" Harm wasn't going to let her distract him.
"Left... ahhh, God, Harm! Warn a girl," Mac got out from between clenched teeth.
Harm gave her a grim look, "I don't think they're just bruised." He glanced around the room, "We'll need to find some way to wrap them and you're going to have to stay still."
"Harm."
"No arguing, Marine. If they are broken, you could puncture a lung."
"Harm!" Mac winced slightly, "I don't think we have a choice. Look."
He glanced over his shoulder and swore. There was an orange glow at the front of the house that was growing stronger. Now that he was paying attention, Harm also realized that the smell of smoke was growing stronger as well. He looked back at Mac, "We have to get out of here."
Mac nodded slowly, "And I'll give you three guesses which door is the more dangerous right now."
"She's right, sir." Pick showed up, crouched beside them again. He held up a cell phone, "I talked to Tink, They've got about the same injuries next door. Cuts and bruises, mostly, except for Marius and Mo. She's got a broken arm. She took a header down the stairs when the explosions happened. Marius went out to check his man and took a round in the leg for his trouble. Tink barely got him back in."
"You call 911?" Harm gestured for Pick to get on Mac's other side and together they carefully lifted her to her feet.
"Yes sir, but I don't know how long it will take to get them here. This is a SWAT situation and I don't think there's anything like that on the island. Morehead's a good twenty-five minutes away." There was the unmistakable sound of bullet whizzing by, causing both men to instinctively duck and Mac to let out a quickly suppressed gasp.
"Goddammit!" Harm looked over at Pick, "Did Tink have Elbert's position spotted?"
"Looks like she's behind the first dune on the east side of the walkway, sir. " He nodded to his left, "The west side of the building is the only place she doesn't have a shot - providing she doesn't move. I don't know if that will do us any good. It's a good ten feet down off the walkway and we're cut off from the beach and the stairs."
"And everyone on the east side is trapped," Harm said in frustration.
They reached his parents who were now crouched on the floor in a corner. Gunny Walters near them, busily building a barricade across what was left of the picture window. Every now and then, he would squeeze off a shot. The Burnetts cautiously stood and Trish took a half step forward, her brow furrowed in concern, "Sarah, you're hurt."
Harm spoke up, knowing Mac would downplay her injuries if given half a chance, "It looks like she's broken some ribs."
Mac frowned but didn't say anything, realizing that her case wasn't helped by the fact that Harm and Pick were keeping her upright.
"We need to get everyone out of here." Harm glanced around, "Where's Gibbs?"
"Here."
Harm turned his head to see the NCIS agent making his way carefully down the stairs. He was holding one of Dr. Mallard's arms, Emma Fine had the other. Kate was bringing up the rear. "Is Ducky all right? What happened?"
"The blast knocked him off his feet. He hit the edge of the dresser." Kate explained as they reached the rest of the group. Harm noticed the darkening under her left cheekbone and decided that Mallard wasn't the only one who'd been tossed around. Gunny righted a chair and Gibbs and Emma lowered Ducky into it. The right side of his face was red with the blood trickling down in a steady stream from a gash up near his hairline. Gibbs pulled out a handkerchief, folded it up and placed it over the cut.
Emma shifted to the side and gestured that she would take over, "I've got it. Go on, you two, and help figure out how we're going to get out of this."
Gibbs gave her a quick nod and then he and Kate moved over to join Harm, Mac and Pick. He scowled when he realized the Marine Colonel was being supported on either side. He looked at Harm for a moment before glancing out into the darkness, "I'd say we've got a problem."
Harm bit back an angry retort, at least the NCIS agent hadn't said 'I told you so.' "Yeah you could say that. We've got injured, our people on the east side are trapped, the only safe exit is out the west dining room window, we can't get past the fire on the north side and Elbert's waiting to pick us off to the south. Any ideas?"
A loud crash interrupted Gibbs' reply. Guns were drawn as people pivoted towards the sound. Harm spun Mac into his grasp and then turned to put himself between her and whatever was happening. He muttered an apology as he heard her groan at the sudden move. Mac buried her face in his chest, taking short, shallow breaths as she waited for the pain to subside. Turning his head slightly to look back over his shoulder, Harm's eyes widened in surprise, "I'll be damned."
Carefully, he turned again, relaxing his grip somewhat, "Mac, you have to see this."
A large fist had appeared out of the drywall. It withdrew and a moment later, a foot came through, taking out another large section. Methodically, it went on until a large hole had been opened up with a two by four in the middle. There was a moment of inactivity and then Tink put his head in. He was covered with white dust. "Stand clear." was all he said and disappeared. A few seconds later, there was a sharp crack and the two by four splintered as it bowed out. One more kick broke it completely and then two big hands wrapped around the top portion and twisted. There was protesting creak as it came loose. The same action was repeated with the lower section and then Tink stepped through. He looked at the people who were staring at him and shrugged slightly, "We needed another way out."
Signaling the people on the other side, Tink moved to a guard position by the back door. A moment later, Nicky and El came through, followed by Carol and Harley supporting Mo between them. Gus and Liz came next with Marius. Cat, Gheorghe and Marius' two remaining security men came through last. Keeping low, the group hurried across the more dangerous open area while Walters, Tink and Pick provided covering fire. Emma, Harley and Trish took charge of the injured, ignoring both Ducky and Mac's protests that they were feeling better.
Gibbs cocked an eyebrow as he looked over at Rabb, "That's one problem solved." His expression turned hard, "Now let's end this."
Harm nodded and looked over at Pick and Tinker, "Could you two rig up a way to get everybody down to the ground in one piece?" The young men glanced at each other and nodded. "Great, why don't you get started?" Harm pointed to Zali's men, "You two can provide security." He turned back to Gibbs, "The problem will be making sure Elbert doesn't move to cover that side before we can get everyone out of here."
The older man gave him a look, "The problem is time, Commander. Elbert's got to know that the police have been called and she probably has a good idea of how long it will take for them to respond. If we're going to get her, we need to move."
"She'll stay if she thinks it'll be worth the risk," Kate spoke up. "If she thinks we're desperate enough to try running the gauntlet, she'll hang on as long as possible to get a shot at me or Mac."
Harm looked from her over to Mac and then back again, "Oh no. No way."
Kate rolled her eyes in exasperation, "It doesn't have to be BOTH of us. I can do it,"
"Like hell you will, Agent Todd," Gibbs snapped, "You and the Colonel are getting out of here. We'll just have to gamble that Elbert will stay put."
"Dammit, Gibbs, that's ridiculous," Kate flared, "and dangerous! The longer we delay our response, the more likely it is that she'll move to see what we're up to or just flat get out. That is NOT going to happen because I am NOT going through this again. We need to stop Elbert and that means delaying her until one of you can reach her position. Outside of Mac, I've got the best chance of distracting her." She took a deep breath, getting a grip on her temper. She'd never confronted Gibbs this way before, questioning his orders. Somewhere in the back of her head, a little voice was gleefully telling her that she'd gone too far and if she was lucky, her job would be all that she'd lose. She tried to keep the edge out of her voice, "Look, we're not talking about my standing out there so she can take potshots at me. She just needs a glimpse."
"I'll stay with Kate," Gunny Walters said. "I can cover her and two of us pumping rounds at Elbert will lend a little more credibility to the diversion."
"We're wasting time, Elbert's probably already getting antsy." Kate glared at the two men, "If you two are planning to get her, you'd better start moving."
Harm stared at the senior agent, "She's right, we need to go." He knew it would be pointless to suggest that Gibbs remain behind with everyone else even though he still qualified as 'walking wounded'. He couldn't fault the man for doing what he knew he'd do if their positions were reversed.
Gibbs gave Kate a long look before abruptly shrugging and turning his gaze towards Harm, "Let's go." Pivoting, he headed for the dining room window.
Harm couldn't help rolling his eyes a little at the back of the retreating NCIS agent. He glanced over to see Kate silently watching Gibbs' retreat as well. Putting out a hand, he lightly touched her shoulder. She gave him a slightly startled look. Harm smiled at her, "We'll get her, Kate. Just don't let her get you before we do."
Kate gave the JAG officer a tight smile and nodded, "Be careful." She looked back towards Gibbs as he climbed out the window, "Keep an eye on him, would you?"
Harm chuckled as he shook his head, "You bet I will. I've always thought he wouldn't mind shooting me as well."
Kate watched as he hurried after Gibbs, stopping briefly by Mac. Although they only clasped hands for a moment, it was obvious how deep their bond was. Kate bit off a sigh and turned back towards Dubby, "Shall we?" He nodded and led the way over to the door. Checking to see that Kate was safely in position, he knelt and shoved the door open. Grabbing some debris, he quickly wedged it and then pulled back to the safety of the doorframe.
Kate cautiously peered out into the wet and darkness. The storm seemed to be lessening somewhat. The time between lightning flashes and thunder was growing longer. She glanced at Dubby who shrugged. Leaning towards the opening, she took a deep breath and yelled, "Elbert!" There was silence. Kate waited a few seconds and yelled again, "Elbert! I know you're out there so don't expect me to step out in the open and give you a free shot!" Again there was silence. Kate and Walters exchanged looks. She took another deep breath, looking down at the floor, readying herself. She'd known going in that something like this was going to have to happen if they truly wanted to hook Elbert.
"Kate... ?"
She looked up to see Walters watching her with a somewhat worried expression. Kate shook her head slightly and looked out the door, clenching her jaw. She was gambling that Elbert was nowhere near as good a shot as Gibbs. Raising her pistol, she took half a step into the open doorway. The sharp report of a pistol shot was almost immediate and Kate threw herself back towards cover.
Dubby didn't waste time returning fire. He squeezed off three quick rounds before pulling back. Looking over at Kate, he frowned, "That was stupid."
She scowled back, trying to catch her breath. The adrenalin surge had her wired, "It was necessary." She leaned towards the opening again and yelled, "Missed again, Elbert! That's pretty pathetic, you're 0 and 2!" A bullet slammed into the doorframe. Kate flinched in spite of herself and then leaned towards the doorway again, "Nice shot. You CAN hit the broad side of a barn... You'd better run, you're out of your league." There was another shot and this time Kate saw the muzzle flash. Almost of its own volition, her arm snapped up and she fired two rounds. There was a brief lull and Kate started in again, "Still there or are you getting ready to tuck tail and run? Not much fun when your victims can shoot back, is it?" She shot a glance at Dubby, "Mac thinks you'll stick around but I told her you were too spineless to stay. Better beat it, Elbert! You're going to need the headstart when I come hunting your ass." There was a flurry of shots in response. Two hit the edge of the doorframe, sending splinters flying.
"I think you've ticked her off."
Kate's head snapped around in surprise, "Sweet Jesus, Mac! What do you think you're doing?"
"Thought I might help," Mac carefully eased in next to the agent. She had her pistol in one hand and the other arm wrapped around her side.
"Are you out of your mind? You can barely move. You're going to get yourself killed. Get out of here." Kate stared at her friend in disbelief.
Mac shook her head, "No thanks. Bell and Tyler have rigged up a line of knotted bedsheets. They're looping it around people and then Tink lowers them to the ground. How'd you like to try that with broken ribs? I think I'm better off here."
"Harm's going to kill you when he finds out," Kate relented a little. It did sound painful.
"Probably," Mac agreed. She looked past Kate and gave Dubby a nod. He nodded tightly in return, his expression stone-faced. Mac sighed to herself. Now she could add the Gunny to the list of people who were annoyed with her. Trish, Emma and Harley had been exasperated and angry with her decision as well. She finally been forced into Marine officer mode to get them to back off. The change in her demeanor had surprised Trish and Harley into submission. Emma, who had seen her in almost as stressful situations before, merely narrowed her eyes and acquiesced, recognizing a losing battle when she saw one. Mac glanced back at Kate, "Think Mike's still out there?"
Kate hefted her pistol, "Man, I hope so." She leaned back towards the doorway, "Hey Deadeye! That was damn fine shooting. You only missed the house once. You'd better scurry back to your hole while you still have a chance." She started to peer around the corner and then yanked her head back when another bullet whizzed through the door. She glanced at Mac, "Still there. How long have Gibbs and Harm been gone?"
"12 minutes, 25 seconds since Harm went out the window," Mac supplied, most of her attention on the door. "They should be getting close."
Gibbs reached the ground and slid the loop off. His eyes automatically swept the area as he unholstered his pistol. Marius' man, Dimitri he thought, gave him a nod before returning to his own scrutiny of the landscape. The rain had lessened from a monsoon to a steady downpour. Visibility still wasn't worth a damn but that meant Elbert would have a tougher time seeing them as well. As he waited for Rabb to make the descent, Gibbs couldn't help staring at the conflagration under the house. They had less time than he thought. He turned as the Naval Commander touched down and wiped at his face, grimacing as he recognized it for the futile gesture that it was. Harm was barely out of the sling before Gibbs was beckoning to him to follow, "Come on, Rabb."
Harm swallowed an exasperated sigh as he pulled off the loop and drew his pistol. It didn't take long to get past the clear area and move into the underbrush. Gibbs looked back and gave a lop-sided smile, "Watch out for snakes." Harm gave him a quick glare before dropping his eyes back to the ground. What was it with Marines... and ex-Marines? The nastier the terrain got, the more giddy they seemed to get.
The wooded area didn't extend that far, thinning out as they reached the first line of dunes. Harm and Gibbs crouched at the edge and surveyed the landscape. So far, so good. Gibbs turned to look at Harm, "Let's head for the beach and then circle back. I'll come up behind and you come in from the east. We'll have her in a crossfire."
Harm nodded, "Just make sure Kate or Dubby doesn't shoot you by mistake. You'll be in their line of fire."
"Yeah, I know." The two men moved out, climbing up the first dune and half-sliding, half-jogging down the back side. Again, they stopped near a large bush and checked the area. They were still far enough west that the walkway wasn't visible. Moving again, they cleared the second line of dunes and stopped. Harm glanced out at the surf. The waves were pounding further up the beach than he'd seen before, a combination of high tide and the storm. He couldn't quite contain the shudder thinking about what might have happened if this storm had hit earlier.
"Cold, Commander?"
Harm looked over to find Gibbs watching him. He glanced back out to sea, "No, just thinking."
"It didn't happen, Harm." The NCIS agent's voice was devoid of its usual gruffness. When Harm turned back to stare at him, Gibbs was all business again. He checked his watch, "I'll give you thirty seconds to move to the side and then I'll start."
"Got it." Harm turned and jogged up the beach, making good use of his long legs. Thirty seconds wasn't that much time but he'd seen how intense the fire was becoming too, despite the rain. They had to get Elbert soon or Kate and Dubby would be having more problems than just someone shooting at them.
Mike slammed another clip into the pistol and rolled back into position. That bitch! Who the hell did she think she was? Mike smiled grimly to herself, she'd show them! They probably thought they were being so clever - using Todd as their spokesperson. Well, just because she wanted to dismember that woman slowly didn't mean she was too angry to think straight. She could see the fire now. They were trying to get her to make a mistake and show herself so they could get out before the whole house came down around their ears. Mike glanced up at the second story windows. Rabb and Gibbs were probably up there now waiting for a shot. Let them wait. Soon their only exit would be out those same windows and she would be the one with the perfect shots.
Mike tensed when she heard that woman's voice again. 'Deadeye', was it? Damn her! She popped up over the top of the dune, fired another round and then quickly ducked. She didn't want to take any chances. Although it was probably just dumb luck, some of those return shots had come pretty close. Enough to make her cautious anyway. She took another quick look at the house and smiled, imagining the panic the people inside must be feeling. Damn society types, she was teaching them what it meant to mess with her. Mike smiled, wouldn't it be perfect if one of them became frightened enough to ignore orders and made a break for the outside? It would cause a stampede and with Rabb and Gibbs out of reach, it would be up to Todd and Mac to stem the tide. They'd have to break cover and then... Mike shook her head, stop it, pay attention.
If there was anything consistent about this situation, it was that was unpredictable. She was still chastising herself for that first missed opportunity. She'd been so patient, carefully setting up that shot, knowing that Todd wouldn't be able to resist moving into the open for a better look. Granted the lighting hadn't been the best, the damn woman had been half in shadow, but she'd have bet money that she would have hit her. A crash caught her attention and she peered over the dune again and grinned. Part of the house had apparently fallen in, smoke was coming out of almost all the openings now. She set herself up and took careful aim. This was it. Either they came out now or died in the smoke and fire.
"ELBERT! DROP THE GUN!"
Mike went rigid with shock. What the... ! It sounded like... but it couldn't be! He was trapped in the house with the others!
"DROP THE GUN NOW!"
Dammit, dammit, dammit! Slowly, she extended her hands out to the sides and let the pistol fall. Tensely, she waited. His next words would make or break this.
"PUT YOUR HANDS BEHIND YOUR HEAD AND TURN OVER!" His voice sounded like he was coming closer. Perfect.
Mike smiled as she moved to comply. Earlier, she had secured the back-up pistol she'd acquired loosely around her neck with the pistol in back under her windbreaker. Putting her hands behind her neck, she slid one down, grabbed the pistol and started to turn. As soon as she could see him, her hand whipped forward as she let herself slide down the dune. The gunshots were nearly simultaneous.
Harm lowered his pistol. Elbert had been so intent on Gibbs, she'd never seen him standing to the side. Cautiously, he moved forward until he reached the Congresswoman's crumpled body. His round had taken her in the side of the head. It was over. He looked at Gibbs who was walking towards them with a hand on his arm, "You okay?"
Gibbs nodded, "A scratch." He looked towards the house and swore, "Rabb, get up there and tell them it's clear!"
Looking at the red glare, Harm scrambled up the dune. He stopped just before the summit, mindful of what had been going on. Cupping his hands around his mouth, he bellowed, "Dubby! Kate! It's safe, get out!" He peered over the top and his eyes widened. Dear God, were they still in there? He bolted for the walkway, vaulting the rail in one smooth move and sprinting towards the house. He had cleared about five yards when Dubby suddenly burst through the doorway carrying Kate. Harm stopped dead when a third figure stumbled out behind Dubby. Oh God, she didn't... she wouldn't have... dammit, she had and he was going to kill her!
There was another crash as part of the second story caved in. Harm hurried forward, gesturing for Dubby to continue down the walkway. Reaching Mac, he pulled her into his arms and half-carried, half-ran her after the Gunnery Sergeant. Walters stopped at the first sitting area. Lowering Kate to the bench, he stayed bent over, his hands on his knees and started coughing. Harm arrived with Mac a few seconds later. Anger warred with alarm as he hung on while she tried to breathe without coughing. He sank down to the deck with her as she dropped to her knees.
Struggling to get her breathing under control, Mac grabbed at his sleeve. She nodded towards Todd and gasped, "Kate... bleeding... "
"Okay, just take easy, I'll check on her. You okay for a minute?" Getting an affirmative nod, Harm moved over to the NCIS agent. Dubby had stripped out of his t-shirt was securing it to Kate's side with his belt. Harm bent down next to her, brushing away a damp tendril of hair. He looked over at Dubby, "What happened?"
Walters shrugged worriedly, "Looks like a through and through. She must have been hit but I'm not sure when. One minute she was taunting Elbert and the next she's collapsing. The Colonel kept her from falling out the doorway. The fire was getting pretty intense but we were pinned down. When we heard you yelling it was safe, I grabbed her and we got the hell out of Dodge." He looked around, "Where's Gibbs? Did you get Elbert? He's not... ?"
"Elbert's dead."
Harm and Gunny turned to see Gibbs standing at the top of the stairs. He held up a cellphone, "The EMTs and LEOs have finally arrived." He suddenly froze as he caught sight of Kate and then he was hurrying down. "What the hell happened?" Coming alongside, he knelt and reached out to check her pulse. Gibbs almost visibly relaxed as he felt the steady thump. Turning towards Harm, he lobbed his cellphone at the aviator. "Call Tyler and have him get some paramedics and stretchers out here."
Naval Regional Medical Center Camp Lejeune, NC 0750 Local
Kate slowly opened her eyes, looked up at the ceiling and sighed a little. Waking up in the hospital was getting damn old. What had happened this time? She heard a soft snoring and turned her head to the left to find Gibbs sprawled out in a chair, asleep. He was dressed in hospital scrubs and there was a fresh bandage around his right upper arm. Kate scowled, now what had he done to himself? Hearing the door open, she turned back to the right and saw Harm looking at her. Smiling, she gestured for him to come in and then put a finger to her lips to signal for quiet. Rabb nodded, pushed the door open further and escorted Mac in.
The two JAG lawyers smiled at her as they walked up to the side of the bed. "How are you feeling?" Mac asked quietly.
"Tired and a little confused, something I'm beginning to think is normal." Kate glanced over at Gibbs again, "What happened?"
"What do you remember?" Harm asked.
Kate shut her eyes briefly, "The fire, Elbert shooting at us... " She opened them again and looked at Mac and Harm, "How did we get out? I can't seem to remember."
Mac gave her a curious look, "You don't remember being shot?"
"What? Again?" Kate blinked in surprise, glancing at the IV. That explained that, she'd thought she'd re-injured her arm. Not that she could really feel much, whatever drugs they were pumping into her kept everything pleasantly hazy. She was silent for a few moments, trying to bring the past events into focus. It wasn't easy, her concentration kept wandering away. Another thought occurred to her, "Is Dubby okay?"
"Fine," Mac assured her, "He's the one who carried you out."
That led to the next question, Kate braced herself, "Elbert... did she run? Did she get away?"
"Elbert's dead." Harm said bluntly. "You kept her there long enough. She tried to shoot it out with Gibbs, never even saw me. It's over."
"She's dead," Kate repeated slowly. "You're sure?"
"Oh yeah, Gibbs put two in her chest. I put one in her head. Her killing spree is over."
"All that's left is the media circus," Mac made a face.
Kate eyed the Marine Colonel, "How are you?"
Mac shrugged a little, glancing down at her hands, "Good, I guess."
"Except for the two broken ribs," Harm interjected with a stern look.
"Hairline fractures." Mac rolled her eyes and looked at Kate, "He's still mad about my staying behind. I've been trying to explain."
Kate grinned a little, "I think I'll stay out of that one." It was obvious that Mac was still coming to terms with all that had happened and if she wanted to deflect the conversation to less painful topics, Kate wasn't going to argue with her. She glanced up at Rabb and saw from the look on his face, that he was also aware of what was going on. "Is everyone else okay? How's Ducky?"
Harm chuckled, "You know that cliche about doctors making lousy patients? Ducky's the one they coined the phrase for. They wanted to keep him in for observation but he wore 'em down. I understand some of the nurses are now saying he was worse than Gibbs. I didn't think that was possible."
"I heard that."
The three looked over to find Gibbs watching them from his chair. The senior agent heaved himself up and walked over to the bed, raking a hand through his hair. He stood for a moment, looking down at Kate and Mac gave Harm a quiet nudge. When Gibbs looked over at them, Mac gave him a smile before addressing Kate, "We'll get out of your hair for a bit, we just wanted to check and see how you were doing."
"And now we need to report to the rest of the group," Harm added in a dry tone. With a nod towards Gibbs, he and Mac left the room.
Kate leaned back into her pillows and waited. It was hard controlling the sudden surge of nervousness. Somehow she felt like he was disappointed that she'd managed to get hurt again.
"That was nice work out there, Agent Todd." Kate shot him a startled look and he stifled a smile. Turning a little, he settled on the edge of the bed, "Abby and McGee said to hurry up and get better, they miss having you around. DiNozzo said to remind you that you're not in the Secret Service anymore. You supposed to be getting out of the way of bullets, not stepping in front. He's also planning on giving you lessons on ducking."
Kate groaned, "Oh god, he's going to drag this out for months, isn't he?"
"Or until you shoot him." Gibbs gave her a half-grin.
She looked at him hopefully, "Is that an option?"
Harm and Mac walked quietly down the corridor. He looked over at her, "Are you going to be all right?"
She flashed him a smile, "Yeah, I think so." Mac was silent for a few moments, "I liked her, Harm. I know it sounds weird but she was an amazing woman. She did a lot of good for a lot of people."
"Except for the part about killing some of those people." Harm raised an eyebrow.
"We were a lot alike," she said quietly. "I keep thinking 'what if'. There were times growing up when I thought about it, hell, I fantasized about it. I never had the guts to take the final step, instead I just buried myself in a bottle."
Harm sighed, "You were a kid, Mac, in circumstances beyond your control. It's normal to want to escape your tormentors but you knew killing was wrong and didn't. Elbert knew it was wrong and didn't care."
"Yeah..." Mac walked along, studying the floor.
Stopping her with a hand on her shoulder, Harm turned Mac to face him, "Look, Mike was like you in some ways but believe me, in all the ways that matter, you were nothing alike." He pulled her into a quick embrace, careful not to squeeze too hard, "C'mon, let's get out of here. It's a beautiful day outside."
"Okay." Mac smiled up at him, thankful once again that he was part of her life. For now, at least, it was time to start putting Michelle Elbert behind her.
