FORCES OF EVIL

by

Trish Kocialski

PART I

Friday, 0530 Hours… The Day After Thanksgiving

Morning came quickly for the young woman. Sunlight was barely creeping into the small cramped bedroom, waking the pride of cats sprawled out on the bed covers. Mewing and stretching served as the alarm clock for the other occupant of the bed. “OK guys, I get the hint” mumbled the strawberry blonde as she started to get out of the bed. With her eyes still shut, she crawled out, quickly grabbing her tattered but favorite flannel robe to guard against the chill of the early morning air.

“Guess I forgot to close the windows again last night.” she advised the cats who were now running back and forth in anticipation of their morning meal. “One of these nights, I’ll remember to close that darn window before I wake up in the morning!” she admonished herself out loud. I just like leaving it open so the kids can get some fresh air while I’m out, she thought. Her companions are cooped up for such long periods without any company while she’s at work, thus her open window theory of “cat entertainment.”

Katie worked three jobs to keep herself, and her felines, afloat in the current economic condition of the county. Living in a “tourist” paradise was not all fun and games, at least not for the non-tourist. The locals, who had to eke out their livings in a variety of ways, had to pay the same inflated prices for groceries, gas, fast food, pharmacy items, etc. that the tourists did, only they didn’t have the bottomless wallets that the tourists seemed to own. Since most of the area employers would not hire “full time” so they wouldn’t have to pay benefits, Katie worked three part-time jobs to make ends meet. Juggling the schedule for three jobs really took some master planning on her part, but she felt it was definitely worth the effort to keep herself employed in the town of her choosing.

“Let’s see. Do you guys want Captains Choice or Gourmet Grub? she asked her attentive felines. “Greouw” answered the chubby tortoise shell cat named Butter, followed by two more meows. “Oh, grub eh? Well, that works for me.” She reached over to the top of the counter and grabbed the can opener, a spoon, and three saucers to divvy up the cans contents. Butter, Sugar, and Spice all chowed down and then finished with their morning ablutions. Katie watched them until she decided it was time to attend to her own ablutions. She gathered herself up and went to the bathroom to grab a quick shower before putting on her waitress outfit for the early morning shift at Burp & Freddies Diner, a local favorite with the tourist crowd. Emerging from the shower, Katie wiped down the mirror and took a good look at herself. Not bad. Not bad at all kiddo. Guess my little homemade exercise regimen is doing the trick. After all, I can’t be spending time at the gym on my work schedule! Katie always took pride in the way she looked, but wanted to be extra cautious that her hidden strength remained just that… hidden. No one should suspect that this 5‘6” blonde was anything but a struggling young woman.

* * * * * *

On her way to Burp & Freddies, Katie reflected on the current influx of tourists. It was the end of November and the height of hunting season for deer. The “tourists” at this time of year were not like their summer counter parts, who were a lot more refined and at least knew what proper behavior meant. This lot however, was from a different cut of cloth, or perhaps, it was the season that brought out different mannerisms. They were also not necessarily the best tippers but just wait hunting season was just starting… it’ll get worse! Sighing, Katie pulled her pristine, turquoise blue, 1957 Chevy into the back of the parking lot that was used by the hired help. “Another day, another dollar” she quipped to herself.

Katie had been trying all sorts of ways to avoid the verbal onslaughts that were typical of this year’s batch of hunters. Unfortunately for Katie, she was the most attractive waitress at the diner and had to put up with the brunt of crude remarks therefore making her job harder than for most of her fellow workers. She tried her best not to offend the customers since her tips were greatly affected by her actions, but at times, the crudeness just got to her and sometimes she’d just have to do what she deemed necessary to maintain her dignity but not lose her job. She just felt in her bones that today was going to be one of those days that tested her to the limit.

“Hey blondie!” shouted the crass young man from across the diner. “Bring me another cup of Joe and put your lips to my cup so’s I won’t have to use any sugar.” He sneered and winked at her. Katie assessed the lot at table six and by the looks of their rough beards and grubby attire, hunter number one and his table mates were obviously up for hunting season, but deer, at least the four footed kind, were not their target. No, they looked like they were after the two footed ‘dear’ instead. In addition to that assessment, Katie believed they smelled like they had spent the entire week so far in every bar room from here to Cairo and back.

Katie pulled herself back from her assessment and thought, yeah right, like she hadn’t heard that line before. Some men can’t even come up with an original line, she mused. It’s not that she didn’t like men exactly, she just didn’t like rude, dirty, grungy men, who thought they were God’s gift to anything in a skirt! “Well, she thought, I know a few guys that occasionally like to wear skirts that would just love it if you’d talk dirty to them!” Smiling at this thought, she walked over to the table and began to pour the requested coffee into the cup.

“Hey, sweet thing, now how about putting them pretty lips on my cup?” the man asked.

“Opps, guess I should have wiped that smile off first before grabbing the coffee pot” she thought. “Now, why would I want to do that? the green eyed beauty replied. “If I did that for you then I’d have to do it for every customer, and it’s just too busy today, and I do have a job to do.”

“Well, sweet thing, if you want to make some extra cash, I know a few guys that would love to have you serve them some coffee back at camp.” he winked at her while his buddies chuckled in agreement.

Cringing at that thought Katie answered, “No thanks, that’s not the way I like to earn my money.” She turned to leave the table thinking this guy was starting to get on her nerves, and he didn’t fail to meet that expectation.

Not wanting to be ignored, the overbearing hunter thought he could convince her otherwise, so he reached out and grabbed her arm as she turned to leave. “Now, I know I can make it worth your while” he drawled. “A pretty thing like you could make some good money working extra for some fine fellas like us” he commented as he searched his buddies faces for confirmation. “Yeah, Brad. We could use some domestic help back at camp.” replied one of his table buddies, while the rest of the group nodded in the affirmative.

Katie was thoroughly ticked off now. “Hey! What do you think you’re doing?” she cried out. “You can let go of my arm now!” she said as she began to jerk away from the man. In the process of jerking away, her other arm sloshed hot coffee over the rest of the hunting party, with the majority of it landing on hunter number one: Brad. Matters quickly turned ugly as Brad jumped up and yelled at her. “Bitch!” he screamed as he began wiping at the area where the coffee made contact. Katie, mentally sighed anticipating his next move and readied herself to fend off the expected reaction but as he reached out to slap Katie, his hand was stopped in its forward motion by another strong hand clasped around his.

“Now, now, that wouldn’t be a wise thing to do would it?” said a low rumbling voice next to his ear. Brad turned to confront the mysterious voice only to stop short and look into the piercing sapphire blue eyes of a six foot plus beauty who just curled her lip, raised an eye brow in question, and gave him her best feral smile. Recovering a little, Brad stuttered out, “And just who’s gonna stop me? You?”

“Yep” came the very confident reply. “With one hand tied behind my back if you think that’ll help.” She made a show of moving one had behind her back while at the same time exerting pressure against the palm of Brad’s hand bending it back towards his wrist, thus causing him to bend his knees to stave off some of the pain he was beginning to feel.

Wanting to save face with his buddies and noticing that the entire diner was now watching, Brad glared back at the newcomer, and spat out “Come on boys, the bitch isn’t worth it. Let’s get out of here.” As his hand was released, he stared at Katie and under his breath said, “Until next time, bitch!” Then they all hurriedly left the diner, of course without paying for their breakfast or leaving a tip.

Katie just stood there staring, at the tall, dark, and very beautiful woman who intercepted her intended response to another batch of jerks that deer season in the Catskills seems to produce on a regular basis. Then she realized that she had been staring for what seemed like an eternity, until the mystery woman stepped up and asked her in a low, gentle voice if she was okay and broke the spell. Regaining her composure, Katie nodded and simply said “Thank you.”

As Katie moved to clean up the now vacant table, her thoughts went to the tall dark hair woman. Wow! That was pretty amazing! Here I thought I’m gonna have to come out of my shell to fend off that jerk, and I’m saved by a stranger. And what a stranger! I’ve never seen such gorgeous eyes in my entire life. I probably would have melted myself if her gaze fell on me! Shaking her head, she went back to the task at hand, then noticed they hadn’t left any money for their bill. “Damn! ” Katie mumbled.

“Pardon me?” the tall woman asked.

“Oh, sorry. I wasn’t… it’s just that those creeps took off without paying their bill… or leaving me a tip for that matter! My boss is going be really mad for that little show and I’ll have to take the money for their bill out of my tips.” she explained.

“Yeah, they were creeps alright. But it’s not your fault they skipped out on their bill or for the rukus they caused.” the tall beauty offered. “Why would you be held responsible?”

“It’s just the rules here. If your table doesn’t pay up, you have to cover the bill. It’s the waitress’ responsibility to make sure the bill is paid. And, Carl is a real stickler about being nice to the tourists so they’ll come back often. He wants us to just smile and put up with all their macho crap. Carl says they don’t mean anything by it… they’re just here for a good time, so be a ‘good girl and go along.’ Katie told the woman. She looked up into those mesmerizing eyes and took a deep breath letting it out slowly. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be going on like this to you. I don’t even know you, but I do want to thank you for stepping in. I can usually handle them with words and put up with the pawing, but it’s never gotten this close to being physical before.”

“It’s okay,” the dark hair woman replied. “Name’s Deanna, Dean for short. Glad I could help you Katie.”

“How did you… oh, my name badge” she mumbled as she began to turn a very lovely shade of pink. Come on kiddo, get your head back into the game. Don’t let a pretty face take you off your mark. Yeah, she replied to her thoughts, but what a drop dead gorgeous face!

At this time, Carl came up and interrupted the silence between the two women forcing Katie to go back to the table and continue cleaning it up. He looked at Katie and the coffee mess, then began a loud tirade directed at Katie. “Just what were you thinking… spilling coffee all over them like that? You know they could come back here and slap me with a law suit over your stupidity!” he shouted, then continued with “Lord knows, there’s enough lawyers in this town that would be more than happy to represent them! And I suppose they took off without leaving the money for their bill?” he inquired.

Katie turned and began to answer when Dean offered Carl two twenties. “They musta dropped these on their way out the door.” she said smiling at Katie, all the while trying to control her temper long enough to keep from taking care of Carl too. Stay cool Dean, she told herself. You’ve brought enough attention to yourself for one day. Yeah, but it was worth the look you got from the blonde wasn’t it? she answered herself chuckling internally.

Katie picked up the bill that was still lying on the table and handed it over to Carl. “Looks like they left enough to cover the bill and your tip. Too bad that tip will have to pay for all the coffee you wasted!” Carl said to Katie as he took the money and the bill and walked to the register.

Katie just sighed, then looked toward Dean. Sapphires and emeralds met as Carl walked away and held just a moment longer before Katie broke the spell and asked Dean if she needed a table or wanted to sit at the counter.

“Counter’s fine.” Dean replied. “Just as long as you’re the one waiting on me.” Now where in the world did that come from? thought Dean. I thought my pick up days were long over!

Katie smiled and a soft chuckle escaped as she led Dean over to her section of the counter. “Thanks for covering the bill.” She said in all sincerity as she handed Dean a menu.

“Who me?” Dean said, arching a brow and pointing a finger to her chest.

“Well, who else would have slipped two twenties from her jeans when she thought I wasn’t looking?” her green eyes twinkled in response.

“Caught me eh? Must be getting old.” the tall beauty said. “Well, I’ll start with a cup of tea, herbal if you’ve got it”

“Coming right up” Katie said as she went to the beverage area to select the box of herbal tea bags, cup, saucer, and hot water. On her return, she swung by the pastry display and grabbed a couple of fresh honey buns. “Here’s the tea selection we have, I hope you’ll find something you like in there. And here’s a little something to say ‘thanks’ for what you did.” she smiled sweetly at Dean.

Dean took a look at the honey buns and quickly wondered if there was more to it than just ‘thanks.’ Raising an eyebrow, she looked at Katie and gave her a nod of appreciation. “You must be more experienced as a waitress than I thought” she drawled. “Either that, or you can read minds.” And if that’s the case, she pondered, I better be really careful here!

“No, on both counts” answered Katie. “You just look like the ‘honey bun’ type.”

Dean frowned, then let a small smile start in the corners of her mouth and said, “I hope you’re not saying I look fat?”

Katie gasped and quickly answered, “Oh, no, no, no.. you’re absolutely gorg… I mean… you look fantas… umm… no, not at all… it’s just….ah!” Katie threw her hands up and began to blush, then gave up trying to explain as Dean broke out into a hearty chuckle.

“So, can I get you anything else?” Katie inquired while looking around the diner and catching Carl’s stern eyes watching her.

“No, not right now” Dean replied, “but maybe more hot water in a little bit. Thanks.”

Katie left to take care of her other customers all the while sneaking glances at Dean every chance she could. The mysterious woman was at least six feet tall, dressed in jeans, cowboy boots, and a black and gold Army sweatshirt. I think this Dean woman is very interesting. I may need to do a little more digging to see what I can find. Katie mused to herself. You just never know what kind of information you can gather from the most unlikely sources.

Dean settled down to her honey buns and tea while opening the local paper to scan the news and finish with the real estate section. Not much in this rag, she thought. But I guess an area like this can’t support a really good daily anyway. Guess I’ll have to do my digging the old fashioned way. Maybe I’ll start with that cute waitress. She seems to be the talkative type and you just never know what kind of information you can gather from the most unlikely sources.

Dean kept a very watchful eye on the diner and it’s occupants assessing each as to age, career, local or tourist, socio-economic indicators, etc. She had a very keen mind and was able to categorize each occupant into his own little box for future reference. Some might be possibilities, others definitely not, but she never discarded anyone. She was very thorough. At the same time, she kept an eye on Katie and was very impressed with the young woman’s ability to remember orders without writing them down and her ability to put customers at ease and draw them into conversations. A very useful talent that! Definitely worth putting some extra time into that one, she mulled that thought over and decided it might even turn out to be fun.

On Katie’s next round past Dean, she asked if she was ready for that water. Dean nodded and when Katie returned, they both began to speak at the same time.

“So, how long…” (Dean) “Do you live…” (Katie) “You first…” (Both) After the chuckling stopped, Dean waved the waitress on.

“So… do you live around here or are you a tourist?” Katie asked.

“Just moving up to this area. I’ve just been assigned to the local community college.” Dean responded between sips of her second cup of mint medley tea.

“Assigned?” Katie looked at her curiously and noted the Army sweatshirt.

“Yeah, I’m the new Commander for the ROTC Unit at the college.” Dean responded.

“So you’re in the army?” Katie asked pointing to Dean’s sweatshirt.

“Yep. Guess I’m being rewarded for doing such a good job on my last assignment.” Dean said sarcastically. “My last CO didn’t expect me to out-shine his good old boys. So I guess this is his way of keeping face with them!” Now why on earth am I telling her this? Dean thought. You’d think we were long lost buddies or something! Just stick to the program.

“Wow! I never met a commander before. What are you? A general or something?” Katie asked with wide eyes.

At this, Dean almost choked on her tea as she tried to keep it from covering a majority of the diners’ counter. “Not exactly!” Dean coughed out. “I’m just a lowly Lt. Colonel. Just got the promotion as a matter of fact. Part of the ‘reason’ I got this cushy posting.” Dean sighed, obviously expressing displeasure with her new assignment.

“So how long have you been in town?” Katie inquired.

Dean looked at her watch and said with a twinkle in her eye. “About forty-five minutes now. The current commander will be finishing out this semester and I’ll be taking over after the winter break.”

Oh great! Not in town for even an hour and she finds me, and trouble. Great impression here! Katie thought to herself. “So do you have a place to stay yet?”

“Just the local Days Inn until I can get situated.” Dean offered.

Ah, an opportunity to redeem myself. “Well, it just so happens, that my next job… after I get off this shift that is… is a real estate agent for Catskills Properties.” Katie bubbled with this information. “And, I happen to know of several very nice apartments and houses for rent. Unless of course you’re looking to buy?” Bright green eyes questioned the deep blues opposite her.

“Mmmm, no on the buying, but yes on the renting.” Dean drawled. “I’m not looking to settle down here, just get this assignment done.”

Carl was walking over toward the two women now. Clearly upset with the length of time Katie was taking to serve Dean. “Oh, oh. Better get going to my other tables.” Katie whispered. “I get off at 1:00 from here and will be at the agency by 1:30 if you want to meet me there.” She quickly pulled out her agency business card and slid it over to Dean as she walked away.

Carl met her halfway down the counter and stopped her. “I thought I told you not to try and do real estate business on my time!” He growled out. “It’s bad enough you’ve been ignoring your customers for the last five minutes. Now either get to work, or get out!” He huffed at her.

At this, Dean slowly got up and approached Carl who was now standing alone. “Excuse me, but I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your employees here.” She smiled sweetly at him. “I’m new in town and it’s not often that a new person in town is greeted with such warmth and sincerity. It’s a credit to you as an employer that you encourage this attitude in your staff.” She said, batting her blues at him.

Completely taken aback, Carl puffed his chest out a bit then stuttered out a “why… thank you” as Dean turned and went to the register to pay her bill. Guess that’ll put his knickers in a knot for a while, she thought, chuckling to herself as she pocketed the business card and smiled thinking about 1:30 and the beautiful blonde.

**********************************

Same day, 0930 Hours…

Dean left the diner and got into her brand new black Dodge Durango 4x4 SUV. Just as she was exiting the parking lot, Dean’s cell phone chirped. Sliding the phone out of her belt holder, Dean answered. “Yeah?” The voice at the other end talked on for a few minutes before Dean replied, “Sunday, 0230, affirmative” and returned the cell to its holder. Well, let’s see how much time a tour of this town will take, she thought as she pulled up to one of the few traffic signals in town.

Main Street looked like many other main streets across the country. There were lots of empty storefronts and several people, mostly young men, standing around in the doorways smoking cigarettes. This main street like many others was being swallowed whole into the depths of oblivion thanks to the mega mall concept sweeping the country. Makes it tough for little towns like this to survive. With few businesses to tax, it leaves the homeowner carrying the brunt of the load. Dean just shook her head as she drove through what once would have been a thriving business section. She wondered what these folks do for a living. She remembered Carl’s words about an abundant supply of lawyers in town and noticed that he was absolutely correct. Practically every building in town housed a law office. Hmm, wonder what keeps them all going. Dean wondered as she continued her drive out into the country.

It was a glorious November day, with crystalline blue skies above. Considering she was in the Catskills, it was also a very mild November day with a temperature in the low sixties. All in all, Dean was starting to perk up. The countryside was lifting the subdued mood Dean had slipped into during her drive through town. She reached down and turned on the radio looking for something to sing along with. She hit upon an oldies station playing a marathon of Elvis songs that brought a smile to her face. Soon she was cruising through the country singing along to Hound Dog, Blue Suede Shoes, and Love Me Tender. That last one brought her mind back to the diner and the green eyed beauty she was going to meet in another couple of hours.

Now, now, Dean. You’ve got dirty work to do here and you don’t need to get involved with a civilian and have her get caught in the middle, said her conscience. “Yeah, but I need to get some basic info on this town and a peek into its citizens too.” she said out loud. “And what better source than a talkative waitress who must know everyone in town and a real estate agent to boot!” she concluded. OK, but try to keep to the K.I.S.S. principle. You wouldn’t want to see those pretty green eyes in pain now would you? Her conscience finished. “Oh, yeah! Exactly what I had in mind… the ‘KISS’ principle!” She chuckled at her own joke as she started to wind her way back to town.

* * * * *

Katie worked extra hard the next few hours. Concentrating on her customers, and trying to sooth Carl’s ruffled feathers too. But her mind kept wandering back to the enigmatic Dean. I wonder what it would have been like if I had decided to go that route in college instead of the route I chose? Who knows, maybe I could have been a colonel too? She chuckled inwardly at that thought. Who ever heard of a twenty-eight year old colonel! Still, she always had a soft spot for a military uniform. Mmmm… bet she looks great in her dress uniform! OK Katie, snap out of it! You’ve chosen your path in life and it’s not been that bad of a view either, she admonished herself. If it hadn’t been for the last three months of last year, things would be really peachy! Ok, it wasn’t my fault, but we lost a lot of groundwork and now I’ve got to start all over. I can do this without Gerry. She thought as her eyes started to tear. Don’t go there kiddo. It wasn’t your fault. There’s nothing you could have done. Then her thoughts returned to the tall army colonel. Hmmm, too bad I don’t know Dean better. She could turn out to be an asset if played right. Katie continue with her inner conversation all the while she was taking orders and cleaning up the tables.

Table number five was just getting up to leave. As she watched them pull out the money for the check, she caught a glimpse of a gun under the leather jacket one the Asian men. Intrigued, she nonchalantly moved closer to see if she could catch a piece of their conversation. “…. meeting with ….. 2:30 …. Hollow Road.” were all the pieces she could snatch before they stopped their conversation and motioned her over to pay for their lunch.

“Can I get you anything else? Katie asked with a sweet smile.

“No thank you.” came the answer in a decidedly English accent.

Katie hesitated and said, “I guess you’re not from around here by the sounds of your accent.” “Are you passing through, or need directions anywhere? She offered.

“No, we know the area quite well. Thank you.” The man politely answered.

“OK then!” “Thanks for coming in and maybe we’ll see you again! I’ll be back with your change in just a minute.” she offered as she accepted their money and the check.

“Keep the change” the oldest man said as he and his two partners turned to leave the diner.

Katie nodded her thanks and began to clean up their table all the while charging their looks to her memory. Three Asian males, two approximately 5’ 8”, 150 lbs., dark brush cut hair, very neatly attired, business suits, late twenties to early thirties. Third male, the one with the gun under his black leather jacket, 5’ 10’, 300 lbs., shaved head, scar over left eye, mid twenties. She looked up to see what kind of car they drove and saw them get into a black four door Lexus with a New York plate. She couldn’t read the plate number from this distance, but noticed the Lexus was trimmed in gold rather than silver. Hhmm. Now that was interesting. She thought to herself. Could be some businessmen up from the city. But with a body guard? Definitely have to keep my eyes open for these guys.

Katie finished up table five, then went to the back room to time out since it was now 1:10PM. Better get changed kiddo so you can meet your mystery woman! Her thoughts now focused on Dean and found herself smiling at the thought of being able to spend some time with her, even if it was business. For some reason, she mused, she just felt very comfortable and safe around her. That recognition brought her to an abrupt stop. No time for fun and games kiddo, you’ve got work to do! Must be just that ‘stepping in to help thing’ she did this morning. You’re just not used to that. Yeah, that’s it!

* * * * *

It was now 12:00 noon and Dean had some time yet to burn. She decided to stop at the local Wendy’s for a quick bite of fast food instead of going back to the diner and watch Katie some more. This was her conscience winning out and losing at the same time. After all, thought Dean, my conscience should reward me for being good… so a nice cheeseburger, fries, and a Frosty should be just the thing! Dean placed her order and was walking over to a table in the corner when she heard a voice shout, “D! Is that really you?” She turned to see an old army friend sitting at a booth in the middle of the room. Smiling, Dean gave a big nod, then headed over to the table to join her. “Well, T! What in the name of Athena are you doing here?” Dean asked.

“I work here.” Tracy replied. Noting the questioning eyebrow on Dean’s face she quickly added, “No, not here! I’m the Park & Rec Director in this town. Got out of the army a few years back. Couldn’t stomach the hassles anymore. Finished up as a Major though, just before I left!” Tracy offered. “How about you. What are you doing in this neck of the woods?”

“I’ve been assigned as the Commander of the ROTC program at the college,” Dean supplied. “Guess I finally out rank you! I’ve just been made a Lt. Colonel.” She winked and chuckled.

“Well, I’ll be damned! How on earth did you do that? You’re awful young to be a Lt. Colonel.” Tracy commented. “Counting on my fingers, you should be a Captain at most.”

“Just in the right place at the right time. Got put on the fast track for promotion. If you remember, I was just a wet behind the ears First Lieutenant last I saw you. Been quite a ride since.” Dean stated.

“So, you gave up Intelligence to run rough shod on kids, eh?” Tracey shook her head. “Doesn’t sound like you, old friend.”

“Well, you know what it’s like to follow orders, Major.” Dean looked into Tracy’s eyes and the knowledge passed unspoken between the two ex-comrades.

“Well, guess I’ll have to take you out to my pride and joy sometime.” Tracy offered breaking the short silence that arose. “Got a park on the top of one of the mountains here. You can see forever in all directions. Really quite something!” Dean nodded, storing that information for later retrieval.

As the two friends finished their meals, they caught up on the lost time as well as reminisced on some fun old times. Curious about the large number of lawyers in town Dean decided to ask Tracy what the scoop was. “Well,” Tracy replied, “it seems that our summer visitors don’t know how to drive too well and we have a rash of auto crashes that result in lots of litigation that keep these guys employed.” Tracy said chuckling. “You really do need to be very observant on the road in the summer time. We get an awful lot of folks up from the city who are used to driving wildly or not driving at all. Add to that all the immigrants that work the resorts and you have quite an eclectic society here in our quaint little town. In fact, I was told that there are approximately fifty-seven different dialects spoken in this county!”

Too soon, it was time for Dean to leave for her 1:30 appointment. Almost as an after thought, Dean asked Tracy, “Do you know a waitress by the name of Katie that works at Burp & Freddies Diner?”

“Sure.” Tracy said with a little twinkle in her eyes. “Nice gal, came here just about eight months ago. Lives over in the trailer court off the main highway going east. Has a great work ethic. Think she’s working two or three different jobs.” Tracy continued. “A really nice looking gal too. Has eyes that can look right through you… kinda like yours Dean.” Tracy added.

“How’d you get to know so much about her?” Dean inquired returning the twinkle.

Tracy smiled back, “She came in looking for a job when she first got to town. Didn’t have anything to offer her at the time. She occasionally takes a class from us, or comes to the women’s open gym when she’s not working. Pretty good athlete too. Not what you’d expect after seeing her in the waitress get up.” Tracy commented. “There’s something about her though that just doesn’t add up. Haven’t been able to put my finger on it yet, but I will.” She said. “Why the interest?”

“I’m going to meet her now. I ran into her at the diner this morning and she offered to show me some places to rent. I got the same feeling about things not adding up, but that could just be habit. Well, thanks for the insight and the reunion! It’s good to know there’s a friendly face in town.” Dean said, giving Tracy a pat on the back. After getting directions to Catskill Properties, Dean and Tracy parted, agreeing to meet again in the near future.

* * * * *

An agent named Tim was at the reception desk in the office when Dean came in. “Hi” Tim said with a brilliant smile. “How can I help you?”

“I’m here to meet one of your agents,” Dean said with a serious look on her face.

“Who’s the agent?” he inquired.

Dean pulled out Katie’s card, realizing that she never bothered to read it and only knew Katie’s first name. “Umm, Katie Miller” Dean answered.

“She’s not here right now, but I’d be glad to help you.” Tim offered eagerly just as Katie came rushing in the front door. “Oh, here she is.” Tim said with obvious disappointment in his voice.

“Hi.” Katie said as she slowed and approached Dean. “Sorry I’m late.”

“No problem.” Dean answered, “I just got here myself.”

“Come this way over to my desk and we can get started,” the beautiful blonde said as she led the way back to a corner desk. Dean followed, taking in the small cramped quarters loaded with notebooks and bulletin boards filled with a wide range of houses, businesses, and property descriptions and pictures. Maps of various parts of the town and county filled the rest of the walls. Stacks of flyers telling prospective homeowners all sorts of information on shopping, churches, insurance agencies, and even the local parks and recreation flyer, topped the desks scattered about the room. Katie eyed the tall woman taking in the organized mess real estate offices tended to be. “Sorry about the clutter,” she offered, “but that’s the name of the game in this business. Have a seat, and we’ll get some basic information before we make a list of possibilities to view. But first, I need you to fill in some personal information on this sheet.” Katie asked politely.

Dean took the sheet and began filling out the necessary information in her neat print handwriting. While Dean was occupied with this task, Katie pulled out the rental notebook and began familiarizing herself with the current offerings while covertly watching Dean work on the sheet. Mmm, nice woman, she thought, mentally taking in Dean’s assets and filing them for later review. Probably 6‘1”, about 165 -170 lbs., nice athletic build, no distinguish marks or tattoos, about 32 to 34 years old, strong hands, expressive eyebrows, long silky black hair, fantastic blue eyes, inviting lips…. whoa! Stick to the basics kiddo! Feeling a little heat starting to creep up her neck, Katie decided to keep her eyes in the rental book until Dean was finished.

Dean straightened and handed Katie her sheet wondering where the slight blush came from on Katie’s face. Putting that thought out of her mind, Dean asked when they would be able to check out some possibilities.

“Just as soon as I see what you listed for price range and location. Ah, here we go, Miss Peterson, or should I say Colonel Peterson?” Katie asked with a question in her voice.

“Just Dean will do. I prefer to leave the Colonel part for the job.”

“Looks like you prefer a house over a condo or apartment and something in the $800 - $1,200 range. Being close to the college is not as important as your privacy I see. Same goes for me,” Katie commented. “I’ve got a small trailer out on the eastside of town. It’s in a really nice park, especially this time of year. Not a lot of neighbors since most of them are senior citizens that fly south for the winter. Not a lot of kids either, but that’s okay too I guess, but I do miss hearing the pure laughter of children at play,” she said cocking her head to one side.

“I think I know just the place for you. It’s located on one of the back roads that leads to the college. There’s a nice stream that runs behind it that I’m told has a good reputation as a trout fisherman’s paradise… if you like to fish that is.” She inquired with a smile on her pretty face.

“Yeah, I do as a matter of fact. I have a rather unorthodox method though, but it puts the fish on the table.” Dean answered fondly remembering her last fishing trip with her brother Thad.

“Well, that’s not all, it’s set on twenty acres of land, has two bedrooms, one bath, a fieldstone fireplace, eat in kitchen that has recently been remodeled, a small den/living room combination, loft, and a fully screened porch. There are also two outbuildings. A two car garage that’s semi attached to the house by a covered car port type of set up, and a small work shed. It’s all stone exterior, so there’s little maintenance.” Katie continued. “It’s has a private road that’s only a half mile off the main road. If I remember correctly, it shouldn’t be a bad road in the winter either. I can set you up with a plow guy who’ll come in after a snowfall and clean it out for you if you like. It even has an auxiliary power system in case of ice storms. Best thing yet, it’s available immediately.” Katie finished with a flourish.

“Sounds good,” the tall beauty responded. “Can we take a look at it now? I’d like to get out of the Days Inn as soon as possible.”

“Sure thing. I’ll get the key and be right back,” the blonde said as she got up and went into the back room to retrieve a set of keys.

Hmm, sounds perfect, right down to the auxiliary power supply. Dean thought as she watched the green eyed woman return with keys in hand and a smile on her face. “My car is right out front,” Katie supplied as she reached for her backpack. The two women exited the office and walked over to Katie’s car.

“Wow!” Dean whistled. “Nice car you’ve got here Ms. Miller. Where’s you find a ’57 Chevy in such a cherry condition? Did you buy it this way?”

“No, actually, I inherited it from my great aunt. I did give it a new paint job almost a year ago, but the inside is as clean as the day it left the showroom. The mileage is accurate too. Only 28,535 miles! Carl keeps trying to get me to sell it to him but, no way, it’s my baby!” Katie purred. “With a solid V8, this baby can really haul as… tires!” She corrected quickly.

“Ass is more like it!” Dean drawled. “It’s definitely a beauty. How is it in snow?

“Haven’t really had a chance to check it out that way yet. We had a fairly mild spring this year, and I just got it right before I moved up from Virginia.” Katie said, mentally kicking herself for giving away more information about herself than anyone else in town knew or found out in eight months. How does she do that? The blonde asked herself. I’m babbling on like a nervous beau on a first date.

“So what did you do in Virginia?” Dean nonchalantly posed the questioned.

“Uuhh, nothing really. I had just been living there with my great aunt before she passed away.” Katie said as she unlocked the door and slid behind the driver’s seat. Dean got in on the passenger side and enjoyed the room she had for her long legs. “Let’s go shall we?” Katie suggested to Dean and put the car in gear.

The ride out to the house was fairly short since the agency was on the eastside of town already. It took only twelve minutes before they were pulling into the overhead covered space between the house and the garage. Katie jumped out of the car and pulled the house keys from her pants pocket. Unlocking the door and turning on the lights so Dean would have a good visual of the inside. The place was really a bargain at $1,150 a month plus utilities. Sure wish I could live out here, she thought wistfully. The cats would love the big windows and I’m sure there would be plenty of wildlife to entertain them while I’m gone. But, that would raise too many eyebrows and blow a few holes in my story to boot! No way I’m supposed to be able to afford a place like this.

As Dean entered, she looked around checking out the place fully as she roamed from room to room. Security on the windows was pretty tight, entrance and back exit of solid construction, and views of the approaching road were very good. The place even had a security system and some basic furniture, not that she required much. And the fireplace was awesome. I’m looking forward to a nice fire already. Not bad, she thought, not bad at all. She went outside and walked the perimeter of the house, approving the inability of a rear approach due to the sheer cliff that rose up on the other side of the stream. The outbuildings checked out too. The shed would come in handy for some of the stuff that would be coming in next week and it was as secure as the house and garage. Even had a small wood stove for heat. The sheltered area the house was in might play havoc with her cell phone, but once she got the satellite in place, her communications system would operate fine.

“Well, I don’t think we have to look further. I’ll take it.” She smiled warmly at Katie. “Does the furniture stay?” Dean asked hopefully.

“Oh, yeah, I forgot about that. Yes, it does, unless you don’t need it, then, we would put it in storage for our client. The kitchen is stocked with plates, cooking utensils, and all the necessary gizmos that you need in a kitchen.” She answered brightly.

“Great, I really don’t have much.” Who are you trying to kid? All you’ve got is what’s packed in your SUV she chided herself. “Let’s go sign the papers or whatever we need to do. You said it’s available immediately. Does that mean today?”

“Yep. All I need is the lease signed, six months at a time, and first and last months rent. The security deposit is $1000.00. Hope that’s not too much at once.” She asked carefully. “The utilities are all on, and we can change them over to you on Monday.”

“Great.” Dean said. “Uncle Sam is pretty good about moving us around. I can cover the security and two months rent without a problem.”

They locked up and got back into the Chevy to head back to town. Katie was feeling a little disappointed that her time with Dean was coming to an end so quickly. Damn! I should have hauled her around to a few other places before coming here. Bad Katie! Her mental conversation was interrupted when Dean asked her rather loudly if she was okay. “Huh? Oh, sorry. Guess I was just getting all the paperwork together in my head before we get to the office,” she stammered. “What were you saying?”

“I was asking you if you could recommend a good Chinese take-out.” Dean said trying to interpret the solemn face that had taken over the blonde’s normally happy disposition. For some reason, Dean was very drawn to this young woman and didn’t want to see her time with her end. This brought on a solemn attitude within her and she began to wonder if the young blonde was having the same reaction.

“Well, there’s actually quite a few really good one’s in town. But my favorite is next to the grocery store across from the office.” she stated, then had a brainstorm. “If you’d like, after we get the paperwork taken care of, you could go back to the Days Inn and check out. Then pick up any odds and ends you might need to stock the fridge, linen cabinet, etc. After I get off work I’ll stop by my place to feed my cats, then bring some Chinese food over to celebrate your new home.” Getting a little forward aren’t you kiddo? Oh, what the heck, all she can do is say no.

“That sounds good to me.” Dean answered with a bright smile that almost made Katie shiver visibly. “But, under one condition, I buy! It’s the least I can do to show my appreciation for helping me find a place so quickly. I was really dreading house hunting, but you made it quick and painless. Thanks.” She smiled again, and they locked eyes for a brief moment that made the world slow down around them. A horn blaring, brought them both back to the world and, back to their own side of the road.

“Opps, sorry about that!” the blonde said nervously, aware that something had just passed between them and it gave her a feeling of anticipation that all would be right with the world. The rest of the ride and subsequent paperwork took place with no further incident. They parted, each with her own separate tasks before they would meet again later that night.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Same day, 1930 Hours…

Katie’s concentration was not what it should have been the rest of the afternoon. At five

o’clock, she left the real estate office and headed home to change and feed the cats. As she opened the door to her trailer she was met by three felines that took turns wrapping themselves around her legs. “Okay gals, this is what’s going to happen. I’m going to feed you, change, then leave again, and I don’t want to find any hairballs in my bed as your way of showing your disgust with me. Okay?” Her response came in three mews of different octaves and qualities. Butters came as a normal mew, Sugar’s was a quiet chirp, but Spices’ was a demanding MEOW! “Okay, okay. I get the picture. Feed you first, talk later!” After feeding her crew, Katie went to her bedroom to change into something more comfortable. She was looking for something that would be comfy but also alluring, and fantasized that the evening would become more than just dinner. Yeah, like that’s a possibility! Still, there’s something about her. Something about the way we fall into each other’s eyes. It’s gotta be more that just a passing feeling. It’s like we’ve been there before or something. A connection of some kind… Come on Katie, snap to!

Katie settled on her favorite pair of black jeans and added a deep green silk blouse and her favorite loafers. Not one to wear much jewelry, she added a pair of black pearl studs, fluffed her short hair, and added just touch of Bill Blass. Satisfied with her reflection in the mirror, Katie went out to the kitchen to rummage for the vanilla candle she just bought last week. Hhmm, I’ll just take this along as a housewarming gift. Who knows, it may come in handy during an ice storm or something… hopefully ‘or something!’ Especially since there’s that back-up power supply!

After final instructions to her cats and turning on the living room light, Katie left the trailer to pick up the Chinese dinners. Hoping beyond hope that this evening would become a night to remember.

* * * * *

Dean managed to get checked out of the Days Inn in record time. Her bags were still packed since she had just checked in that morning. Stopping to pick up some bare essentials like bed sheets and towels didn’t take long. Going through the grocery store however did. She hated grocery shopping. Especially in a new store where she didn’t even know the set up of the aisles. It took her several trips around the store before she finally had the items she wanted. On her way out to the SUV she noticed the liquor store and thought that she’d add a few more things to her list. Once that was completed, she headed out to her new place happy that she would not have to spend tonight in a lonely hotel room. Nor would she have to spend the evening alone.

Its’ been a long time since you entertained any thoughts of companionship, Dean smiled to herself. Not that you haven’t had any offers. Come on Dean, be honest, there just hasn’t been anyone you cared about enough to want companionship. She found herself hoping that the young blonde would turn out to be good company and if truth be told, she even hoped for more. She couldn’t understand it, but there was a definite attraction there. Hmm, never been drawn to someone so quickly before… and it’s almost feels like déjà vu or something. “She’s so young though. What could she see in an old war horse like me?” Dean asked herself out loud. “Guess we’ll find out!”

It didn’t take long for Dean to get settled in her new place. The few items she purchased found their way to linen shelves, bath, and kitchen with ease. She had just enough time to take a quick shower, change, and set up her compact Bose stereo before her company would arrive. With some vintage Stan Getz playing in the background, Dean assessed her appearance and gave a nod of approval. She had picked out a pair of black chinos, a sapphire blue blouse, black vest, socks and favorite cowboy boots. The result was stunning! Her long silky black hair and sapphire eyes complimented the outfit to the max.

She left her bedroom to check on the wine she had opened and set aside to ‘breathe’. On her way back to the living room, she caught a glimpse of headlights coming down the road. By the time she walked to the entrance door and released the deadbolts, Katie was getting out of her car with a couple of bags. “Need any help?” She called.

“No thanks, I think I’ve got it all.” Katie replied as she shut her car door and headed up the slate walkway. As she entered and set the bags down, she pulled out the candle she brought for a housewarming. “Here’s a small housewarming present for you. I thought it might come in handy sometime. It’s nice to be prepared.” Katie said as Dean accepted the small gift.

“Thanks for the nice thought,” Dean said. “Of course with that back up power system, I probably won’t need it for light. So how about we light it now and add a little ambiance to the dinner table?” The dark beauty offered with a smile. “Mmm, this stuff smells good. Are you as hungry as I am?” Dean asked the young woman as she led her to the kitchen.

“I could eat a horse!” Katie replied. “You don’t know how much willpower it took for me to keep from ripping into those bags on the way here.”

“Guess we better get you fed then,” the tall beauty suggested as they opened up the bags and spread out the feast. Dean asked if Katie would like some wine with dinner to which the green eyed blonde eagerly agreed.

“I’ve got merlot, zinfandel, cabernet, and chardonney” Dean stated. “Name your poison” she stated to the blonde.

“Wow! What’d ya do? Buy out the whole liquor store?” Katie said in awe.

“Not really, I just didn’t know what your tastes would be. I also have some beer just in case you didn’t want wine, and soda too in case you prefer something non-alcoholic.” Dean said with a twinkle and a smile.

They settled on the cabernet since it had already been allowed to breathe, and then attacked the food. Dinner passed quietly as they both concentrated on the food as well as sneaking glances at each other in the candlelight. Both women secretly appraised each other during the meal and if they were to compare results, they would have been identical as to their attraction to each other. It didn’t take them long though to devour everything in sight and mentally each conclude that they wouldn’t mind pursuing this fledgling friendship a bit more.

“Phew!” Dean said as she pushed away from the table. “I didn’t realize how hungry I was. That moo shoo veggie dish was great, and the kung pao too!”

“Yeah, I enjoyed those too, but the hot and sour soup was a real tummy warmer and this wine is great!” Katie commented as she took a sip of her third glass. She started to clean up the empty little paper boxes and put them back into the larger bag. “Guess we can have the fortune cookies later huh?” She said as she plucked them out of the paper sack.

“Sounds good to me” Dean agreed. “I don’t have a TV, just my compact stereo system and books right now. Would you mind putting in a few more CD’s while I take the trash out?” She asked Katie who nodded in response.

Katie walked into the living room and over to the bookshelf that held the stereo. Looking through the CD’s she saw quite an eclectic variety. Dean seemed to enjoy all sorts of music. She had CD’s from artists like Enya and Ronstadt to Natalie Cole and Yanni. There was even some Nana Mouskuri and Stan Getz. Just about every type of music was available, from musicals, to classical, to country and rock & roll. So, I guess it’s up to me to set the mood, eh? Pretty sneaky Dean, she thought to herself. As Dean came back inside Katie remarked on her collection and asked what kind of music she didn’t like.

“I’m not real fond of rap and hard rock, but music that moves my soul is what I like best.” Dean answered.

Katie thought to herself that her selections of Cole’s Unforgettable and Stardust, and Ronstadts ‘round Midnight, followed by Chip Davis’ Romance should be met with approval. She knew she was right when she saw Dean smile when The Very Thought

Of You started to play.

Nice selection, Dean mused, and very appropriate too. “Say Katie, I brought some maps in with me. Mind helping me get acquainted with the area?” Dean asked innocently as she brought in the maps and refilled glasses of wine.

“Sure,” Katie replied. “Let’s spread them out on the floor in front of the fireplace.” She suggested. She took her wine glass and the maps from Dean and knelt down on the floor spreading them out in front of her. Dean joined her on the floor and they both began to look them over as Katie pointed out places of interest, historical sites, and the like.

“This area right here is a recreation area on top of this mountain. There’s a heck of a view of almost the entire county from here.” She said enthusiastically.

“Really?” Dean asked enjoying the fire, the wine, and the closeness of the beautiful blonde next to her. She really is beautiful, thought Dean. The way the firelight reflects off her golden hair and makes her emerald eyes sparkle like jewels in a treasure chest. I do think I could get lost in those eyes forever and never want to be found! “Have you ever been up there?” she asked as she brought herself back to reality.

“Yeah, lots of times. I go hiking up there whenever I can. The park is officially closed now, but you can park outside and hike up. Except at night. They frown on people up there at night, but I hear they do make exceptions… if it’s a good reason.” She offered.

“Hhmm, I’ll have to remember that. It may be a good site for some night maneuvers for the ROTC class.” Dean stated matter-of-factly.

“Ooo, that would be cool!” The blonde agreed. “This plateau here,” she said pointing to a spot on the map, “gives you about a 300 degree view, and if you walk over to here,” again pointing to another spot, “you can catch a 180 degree view that includes the part you missed. I was up there a few weekends ago, and the fall colors were awsome!” Katie continued enthusiastically. “You should check it out sometime.”

“So… would you be interested in giving me a guided tour?” Dean asked raising an eyebrow and curling her mouth into a smile.

“You bet!” the blonde eagerly responded. “I’m off tomorrow. Would that be too soon?”

“Nope, just right.” Dean said while mentally calculating the view from the mountain towards her objective at 0230 Sunday morning.

Katie went back to the maps and continued her tour of the county for Dean as well as finishing her fourth glass of wine for the evening. “Well, that’s about it,” Katie finished, wondering why a Lt. Colonel in the army would need anyone to read a map to her. Not that I’m complaining, she thought. In fact, I’m really enjoying this. It’s been so long since I’ve felt this comfortable with anyone… maybe it’s the wine talking. You have had a bit more than you’re used to, kiddo. Katie rolled over on her back and found herself staring into beautiful sapphire blue eyes and found them much more intoxicating than the wine. Their eyes held for a very long time. Each lost in the depths of the other, both wanting more, both hesitating.

Trying to pull herself out of the emerald sea Dean managed to say, “Well, I guess it’s time to see what the fortune cookies have in store for us.” She stood up to retrieve them, then offered Katie her pick first. Katie blushed upon reading hers which brought a raised eyebrow and smile to Dean’s face. “So… what’s it say?” Dean asked with a disarming smile.

“Uhh… nothing… just the usual” responded a very nervous, blushing, Katie. “What’d your’s say,” she quickly asked to divert the attention away from her.

“Not so fast young lady,” Dean countered. “I’ll tell you mine after you tell me yours.”

Katie blushed again then said, “I’m going on a long trip.” then attempted to toss the paper into the fire but didn’t count on the quick reflexes of the tall woman.

“Hhmm… let’s see.” Dean said as she began to unwrap the small fortune all the while fending off a slightly inebriated blonde. “You are going to fall in love with a tall dark stranger.” Dean read, then stopped, realizing the two women were now in a rather intimate position due to the mock fight over the piece of paper. She coughed and then began to flush a bit herself from the implication of the fortune and the intimate position.

In an attempt to recover, Katie protested, “No fair!” then reached out to grab Deans fortune. She opened it up and read: “You will soon come to a crossroad in life. Take care to follow the right path.” “Yikes,” the blonde exclaimed, “I think I like mine better!”

“Well,” whispered Dean, “I’ve never had much faith in fortune telling.”

“Yeah, me either” said a now quiet Katie. She glanced at her watch and was surprised to see it was already past midnight. “Umm, guess it’s time for me to be going home” she said as she stood to rise, only to quickly come back to the floor as a wave of dizziness hit her. “Whew! Guess I had more wine than I’m used to.” The young woman said as she put her hand out in an attempt to make the room stop spinning.

“Don’t think you’ll be driving anywhere.” A very concerned Dean said as she moved over to support the young blonde. “Why don’t you just stay in the guest room for tonight?”

“I really can’t, protested the blonde as she slowly stood. “Sugar has seizures and I gotta give her her medicine.”

‘’Well, you’re definitely not driving home. I’ve only had two glasses tonight, so I’ll take you home.” Dean said as she went to steady the young woman.

“No need Dean, I can drive home. It’s only eight minutes down the road and I’m not that drunk!” Katie protested felling a bit embarrassed about her lightheadedness.

“You’re right,” Dean answered. “It is only eight minutes down the road so it’s no problem for me to take you home… and that’s an order young lady.”

“Yes ma’am!” Katie said with a mock salute, that almost put her back on the floor, save for the quick reflexes of Dean. Dean’s arms caught Katie in a quick smooth action that brought them together in a very close embrace. An embrace that found them unwilling to let go of each other. That found both of them longing to hold on forever, never letting the moment end. Dean wasn’t ready for the sensual shock wave that rolled through her body as she felt the lithe body just below the soft silkiness of Katie’s blouse. As emeralds and sapphires met this time, Katie gave in to her desire and tilted her head up softly placing a tender kiss on Dean’s lips.

Dean was taken by surprise by this action even though all night long, she had want to do just what the blonde had accomplished. The feeling that went through her body with that simple kiss ignited a fire that she knew would rage out of control if she allowed herself to submit. Softly, gently, Dean released the emerald eyed blonde and whispered, “As much as I enjoyed that, I don’t think it would be a wise choice for us to continue… especially in your current condition. It wouldn’t be right for either of us.” She stated gently brushing the blondes’ cheek with her thumb. “You understand that don’t you?”

“Yes… no… yes, I suppose, ” came the confused answer from Katie. “I hope I didn’t… I mean… I don’t know why I did that.” She continued to stammer. “I just couldn’t stop myself. I’m sorry.” Katie said as tears began to fill her eyes.

“Shhhh,” said Dean, still stroking Katies’ cheek while pulling her into a tender embrace. “It’s okay, really. But I think it’s best we get you home for now.” The sooner, the better, or I’m not going to be able to let you go, she told herself mentally. Hell, I must be nuts for sending you home, but there’s just something about you Katie. Something I’m feeling that I’ve never felt before. And I don’t want to ruin any chance of keeping your friendship because I took advantage of you. No, no, my beautiful new friend. If we do become lovers I want it to be on a mutual and sober basis.

“Okay.” Katie replied. “You’re sure you don’t mind taking me home?” Noooo, she mentally protested. I really don’t want to go, or leave the comfort of your arms, ever!

Dean just shook her head and smiled, then led Katie to her car to begin the short trip to her home.

* * * * *

Saturday, 0130 Hours…

Six minutes later, Dean was pulling up to the last trailer on the cul-de-sac that was Katie’s modest residence. When she put the car in park, Katie suddenly reached over and put her hand on Dean’s arm.

“What’s wrong?” Dean asked quietly.

“I know I left a light on in the living room, and I just saw the curtains close as we came down the road.” Katie said in a very low tone. “I think there’s someone in my trailer.”

“Could it have been one of the cats?” Dean inquired while carefully looking around the exterior of the trailer and at her neighbor’s trailers. She noted a beat up pick up truck at the trailer to the left, but no vehicle at the trailer on the right, and no lights on in either. “Can you go to the neighbor’s while I check it out?” She asked the now very alert blonde.

“No, it wasn’t the cats, and I’m the only one here this time of year. At least in this part of the park. Everyone else has already left for Florida.” She commented while noting the pick up next door. “I don’t recognize that truck. There shouldn’t be a vehicle there at all.” She said in a whisper as she pointed to the truck.

“Okay, give me your keys. You stay here while I check it out.” Dead instructed.

“No, way!” the young woman protested. “I’m going with you!”

“No, stay here!” Commanded the tall beauty. “You’re in no shape to be of help, besides, I’m the one with the military training.” Then Dean exited her SUV and stealthy made her way towards the trailer.

All of Dean’s instincts and training were now at full alert. She carefully surveyed the trailer, making a quick circuit around it and checking the back door. Then she returned to the front and walked up on the small porch. She placed the key in the door, noticing the scratches on the frame that indicated a very sloppy forced entry. As the door opened, she heard a sound to her right that could not have been made by one of the cats. She quickly slammed the door into the head of the man behind it, knocking him to the floor. Then she turned to her left to block a blow coming from a second intruder, did a quick turning kick connecting with his head and sent him to the floor to join his buddy. Then a third man caught her from behind in a chokehold, while a fourth began to land a series of blows to her abdomen. Dean tightened her abdominals to absorb the blows while she grabbed for the arms holding her from behind. Using this hold as leverage, she lifted her torso and caught the front attacker in a vise grip between her strong legs. A split second later, her rear attacker released his grip, falling to the floor behind her and providing a cushion for Dean as she fell backward flipping the man in front over her head and onto the floor. She quickly stood, waiting for the next attack. As she heard the sound behind her, she turned to release another blow, but pulled it at the last moment upon recognizing the blonde standing behind her.

“Whoa! It’s me!” Called the blonde.

“I thought I told you to stay in the SUV!” Dean said a bit too harshly.

“Yeah, well, when I heard all the crashing, I thought you needed some help,” she explained, “so, I came in and saw that jerk choking you from behind while the other was pummeling you so I smacked the guy over the head with my frying pan.”

“No wonder he dropped his grip.” Dean said as she raised an eyebrow. “But next time, do what I say. I’m trained to do hand-to-hand and you’re not. Besides, I was in total control of the situation.” She softened her voice as she took in the mess she created in the cramped quarters.

“Okay, but you didn’t look like you were in control what with the guy in back and the other guy in front.” The blonde agreed verbally but mentally smiled at the thought of Dean finding out she was a black belt in several martial arts and finished first in her class at Quantico in hand-to-hand combat.

“I just needed two more seconds and I would have had them right where I wanted them.” Dean protested.

Katie reached over to pick up her table lamp and clicked it back on to survey the faces of the downed perps. “Well, what’d ya know.” She said, pointing to the first fallen victim. “Isn’t that the creep you stopped from hitting me at the diner this morning?”

“Yep.” Dean replied making a tsk tsk sound. “These boys need to learn to play nice.”

“Do you want to call the police while I truss them up?” She asked the green eyed blonde with a smile.

“Uhh, I think I’d rather just dump them into their truck if it’s okay with you. I really don’t want to get the police involved.” Katie asked tentatively. That’s all I need, she thought. The police might ask a few too many questions and find out more than they need to know.

“It’s okay with me, but are you sure?” Dean lifted an eyebrow in question. “They may come back”, she cautioned.

“Oh, I don’t think they’ll come back here after the whooping they just got.” The blonde chuckled.

“Yeah, you’re probably right.” Dean agreed joining in the laughter.

Together, they physically drug the men outside and dumped them into the truck bed. It was beginning to rain and the men started to come to as the last of them was unceremoniously tossed in.

Dean looked at Brad, grabbed his shirt collar, gave him her most feral smile, and spoke in her most menacing voice possible. “I don’t want to see your sorry butts around here again. If I do, you’ll get twice the beating you took tonight. Ya got that!”

At that, Brad tumbled out of the truck bed and got behind the wheel. He quickly backed out of the driveway then burned rubber out of the trailer park. Dean and Katie watched and laughed at the sight of the other three bodies hanging on for their lives as Brad swerved back and forth up the road.

“Well, lets get inside before we get soaked.” Katie said as she reached for the tall woman’s hand and tentatively intertwined her fingers with Deans. Mmmm, that was quite some show you put on colonel, Katie thought as she noted the sheer smile of pleasure on Dean’s face. And what a lousy way to sober up quickly! She added.

“Now, that was fun!” Dean said still chuckling and enjoying the warmth that was travelling up her arm from Katie’s touch. “Guess I haven’t lost my touch.”

As they entered the trailer, Katie sighed as she looked at what was left of her living room. “Ugh! What a mess!” Katie exclaimed. Then she went in search of her small charges. “Butter… Sugar… Spice,” she called. “You can come out now, it’s safe.” First, Butter appeared mewing softly, then out came Spice meowing verry loudly, and finally Sugar with her trade mark chirp. “Come here guys.” Katie said as she sat on the floor and reached out, stroking them gently. They all immediately tried to fit into her petite lap but finally were satisfied just being near their owner. “Tough night huh?” she asked them. “Did those mean old boys try to hurt you?” MEOW! cried Spice, followed by a chirp and a mew. “Well, you all look okay. How about a treat?” No sooner did she finish the word treat, and they all jumped up and ran to the kitchen.

“I’ll start putting your place back in order.” Dean said as she watched them leave.

“Thanks.” The blonde answered over her shoulder.

By the time Katie returned all the furniture was back to where Dean thought it was supposed to go. “Sorry about the vase”, Dean said. “When I flipped that last guy over my head, I couldn’t exactly pick out his landing spot. I hope it wasn’t a valuable piece.”

“No, just a sentimental vase I’ve had for a while,” she said sadly. “It was one of my great aunts. She got it in Ireland. It was her favorite” Katie said as tears began to well up in her emerald eyes as she touched the pieces of vase on the coffee table.

“I’m sorry Katie… I’ll try to get it fixed for you.” Dean said as she slowly stroked Katie’s

shoulders from behind, very aware of the trembling she felt beneath the shear silk blouse. She turned the young woman around and pulled Katie into a hug and held her stroking her short blonde hair as the young woman quietly cried. “Shhh”, she said for the second time tonight. “I’ve got you.”

“I don’t have many things from my aunt, just the car, a few knick knacks, and this vase.” the blonde said between sobs. “I guess it could have been worse. At least the cats are okay.”

“Yeah, and you are too.” Dean interjected still holding the young woman and not wanting to let go. “I’m glad I was with you.” She whispered into the blondes ear. “Do you have any idea how those guys found out where you live? The tall woman asked while still stroking the young woman’s hair.

“I don’t know. Maybe Carl told them.” She said thoughtfully.

“Well, I can tell you one thing,” the dark beauty added, “this trailer is about as secure as a tin can.” She gently released the blonde and walked over to the front door inspecting the lock. “Looks like the frame and lock system are sprung for good. The whole door will have to be replaced before you’ll be able to lock it again.” Dean added as she opened and closed the door.

“Couldn’t be because you used it as a battering ram could it?” The blonde replied with a twinkle and a smirk as she started to come up from her blues.

“Naw,” replied Dean. “If anything, the head butting put it somewhat back in shape.” She chuckled back. “Actually, it was that way when I put the key in… it just opened right up without any pressure. That’s what alerted me to the creep behind the door. I heard him shuffle to get out of the way as it popped open.”

“I guess I can put something in front of the door to hold it closed for the night.” Katie said as she surveyed the room looking for something appropriate.

“Think again.” Came the response from Dean. “You’ll not be staying here until the door is fixed. You can just pack up some stuff and come back to my place.” Dean insisted.

“But… what about the cats? I can’t leave them here.” Katie began to protest but was silenced by two fingers on her lips.

“They can just come too. I really don’t mind… I kinda like the little fur balls anyway.” Dean said as she looked down at her feet where a very frisky Spice was winding herself between her legs leaving a streak of cat hair on her black slacks.

“Oh, I’m sure you like cat hair on your ankles.” Katie said as she bent down to pick up Spice. “I’ve got a lint remover here somewhere,” she said as she walked through the living room looking for it. “Ah, here it is,” she exclaimed as she handed it over to Dean.

“Guess you’d better pack that too then.” Dean commented as she retrieved it from Katie’s hand and began cleaning off her slacks.

It took Katie nearly fifteen minutes to pack up some things for the night and morning as well as some cat food and medicine for Sugar, litter box, and three cats in two carriers. While she was busy with that, Dean worked on trying to semi-secure the front door, at least for appearance sake. In the process, she noticed a small hidden door in the wall behind the front entrance that must have come ajar during the short fight. As she reached down to inspect it, Katie caught sight of her and quickly ran up and closed the door before Dean could reach it.

“Oh, that’s just the service door for the water shut off.” She said rather quickly as Dean looked at her with a raised eyebrow. Can’t have you poking around in there now, can I? Katie quipped to herself. I wouldn’t want to explain night vision scopes, a 9mm Glock, ammo, and my night camouflage gear. “I’m all set now. Can you grab the cats for me?” Katie asked with a smile quickly trying to change the subject and take Dean’s mind off the little curious door.

Dean did as she was asked, taking the cat carriers out to the SUV with Katie following right behind her making it the fastest exit she’s ever witnessed. Hmm, I do believe you’re right Tracy… she’s definitely more than what appears to the eye. We’ll see… Dean was thinking as she was quickly led from the trailer.

“I really do appreciate this.” Katie said with a sincere smile. “I wouldn’t have gotten much sleep if I had to stand guard at my front door all night.”

“Not a problem.” Dean responded considering the strange change in Katie in the last two minutes. “Is there someone in town or at the trailer park that can fix the damaged door?” she asked attempting to act nonchalant over the quick exit.

“Yeah, I can call Paul, the trailer park manager in the morning. I’m sure either he can fix it or knows someone who can.” Katie answered as they pulled into the private road that led to Dean’s place.

As they unloaded the cats and Katie’s things the rain began to let up. “I hope that’s it for the rain. I’d hate to put off the trip to the park tomorrow.” Katie said as she waited for Dean to open the door.

“Yeah, me too.” Dean answered.

It didn’t take long for the cats to prowl the new home and check out the litter box situation. Katie began to yawn in earnest now so she was glad when Dean suggested they all try to get some rest for the night. She led Katie to the guest bedroom and said good night, then went to her room to plan her reconnaissance mission for tomorrow night.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Saturday, 0800 Hours…

Saturday morning was another beautiful fall day. Bright sunshine was burning off the left over fog from the night before and drying out the grass from the brief rainfall. Dean awoke earlier and had gone out for her daily run leaving the blonde to sleep in. By the time she returned it was nearly 0800 and the blonde was still sound asleep.

Well, Dean thought, she had a pretty rough day and a traumatic night. She’s probably exhausted. So Dean left her to her dreams while she took her shower.

As soon as Katie heard Dean return, she rolled over away from the door so Dean wouldn’t see her awake. At the sound of the shower turning on, Katie got out of bed and went to her duffel bag pulling out her cell phone. She dialed and waited for a response at the other end. Once contact was made, she explained her escapade from the night before and informed her contact where she was and her plans for the day. She also fed her contact the bits of conversation she picked up from the Asians in the diner. After setting a time to call later that evening, she hung up and replaced her cell in the interior zipper compartment of the duffel. Then she went out to the kitchen just as Dean immerged from the bathroom.

“Hi” Katie said ruffling her hair a bit as she caught sight of Dean coming out of the bathroom dressed in just her short bathrobe. Mmmm, that sure is a tempting sight kiddo. Certainly hope you didn’t complicate things last night with that kiss. Katie reflected.

“Hey” Dean replied then inquired if the young woman slept well.

“Oh yeah, I was really beat.” Katie replied. “Can I put on some water for tea?” She asked politely.

“Mmm, good idea.” Dean said then asked “Are you hungry? I picked up some cereal yesterday and some muffins. They’re in the cupboard to the right of the sink,” she instructed as she walked toward her bedroom.

“Great!” The blonde answered. “I’ll set the table while you finish getting dressed.”

By the time Dean came out, Katie had the table set, hot water boiling, and a fire started in the fireplace to take the chill out of the air. Nice, Dean thought admiring the beautiful young woman. Then shook off the thought of what it would be like to have the young blonde there every morning for tea and breakfast.

“So, what time would you like to go up to the park?” Dean asked as she put a little honey on her muffin. She had dressed for the trip already. Black watch flannel lined jeans, a cranberry chamois cloth shirt, and hiking boots.

“Looks like you’re ready to go right now, but I guess it depends on how the door repair is going. If it looks good, maybe we can go around noon.” Katie responded. “I really should try calling Paul now. May I use your phone?” she asked Dean as she finished her cup of tea.

“Sure thing.” Dean said as she got up to retrieve the phone from her bedroom and handed it over to Katie.

After the call was made, Katie took a quick shower, gave Sugar her medicine, scooped the litter box, and then joined Dean in the living room.

“Umm, about last night,” Katie began. “I… I’m a little embarrassed about the way I acted or should I say reacted.”

“About what?” Dean asked. “You really know how to show a girl a good time.” She said with a chuckle. “I haven’t had that much fun in a long time. It’s nice to know my skills aren’t rusty.” She continued.

“No, not that.” Katie stammered. “I… I meant the kiss.”

“Oh, so you didn’t mean it then?” Dean lifted an eyebrow as she looked at the young woman, a little disappointment showing in her blue eyes.

Katie registered the disappointment in Dean’s eyes and decided to come clean. “No.” She stated quietly and moved over to the couch by Dean. “I meant that kiss. I’m just not the kind of person to act on my emotions so quickly. I’m usually arguing with myself so long that any chance of a relationship with someone disappears. Or to put it more accurately, they disappear.” Katie finished and lowered her eyes to her lap. Raising her eyes again to meet Deans blue ones, Katie sighed and continued. “I just knew I didn’t want that to happen with you, so I took the chance. I just… I…” she wrung her hands as she struggled with her words.

Dean shifted closer to Katie, coming so close they could almost feel each other’s hearts beat. Dean brought her hands up to each side of Katie’s face and peered intently into the emerald eyes, then softly whispered, “You’re much more courageous than I, Katie Miller. You accomplished what I just thought about last night. You followed through on your desire, and I just fantasized about mine. I meant what I said last night. I did enjoy the kiss. Very much so.” Dean added, as she came forward the last few inches and softly placed her lips on Katie’s. The wave of emotion that went through her with that simple kiss was enough to nearly drown her. Their lips lingered together softly then became more passionate as each pair began to explore further, then they parted as tongues continued the exploration deeper. Their bodies also succumbed to each other as their kisses intensified. Hands gently explored backs, arms, and thighs. It was several minutes before the two women parted, each panting from the release of their emotions that had been held in check. Placing their foreheads together, they both released a sigh in concert.

“Mmmm, definitely better than my fantasy.” Dean commented as she lifted her head and looked into Katie’s eyes once more.

“Ohh, yesss!” Katie agreed. “I’m glad we’ve got that ‘I’m really attracted to you’ conversation out of the way.” She added with a chuckle.

“Yeah, that’s always the toughest part.” Dean agreed, chuckling with Katie in earnest.

The two women looked at each other totally enjoying the tenderness of the moment. Katie leaned in towards Dean and placed another soft kiss on her lips relishing the sensation of her smooth lips on Deans. Soon that kiss led to another and Dean gently guided Katie down on the couch allowing them full contact with their bodies. Then Dean’s lips moved to Katie’s neck, stopping to nibble on an ear lobe along the way. “Ungh” Katie moaned as the heat from Dean’s lips started to ignite her very soul. Then another moan escaped as Dean’s right hand brushed her breast as she began a more earnest exploration of the young woman. “Umm,” Katie mumbled, “if we keep this up, we’re never going to make it to the mountain.”

“Well, that sorta wasn’t on my mind, but I guess you’re right.” Dean whispered into Katie’s ear, once again soliciting a moan of pleasure from the young woman. “Okay, what’s say, we take it slow. I guess we really should get to know each other before we… umm, ah…” She was silenced by Katie’s lips on hers one more time.

“Sounds like a good plan to me colonel,” Katie answered. “I really should check on my trailer first, then we can take that hike I promised you.”

They both agreed on their course of action for the rest of the morning. Stopping by the trailer and checking on the repair progress, then over to the deli to get sandwiches and water to take on the hike. Dean also packed along a compass, a pair of field glasses to ‘bird watch’ with, a digital camera to take ‘scenic pictures’, and her telescoping hiking poles. She placed all these and an extra sweatshirt into a compact backpack. They took Dean’s SUV rather than the classic antique and headed out to Walnut Mountain Park.

* * * * *

“Well here’s the gate.” Katie exclaimed as they came to the end of the park road. “We can park over there,” she pointed to a small parking area next to the walk-through in the fence, “then walk up to the face for the ‘big view’.” She added as they pulled up next to a mini-van that was loading up a bunch of kids and a dog that had obviously been there for a while already. The kids were really dragging, and the dog’s tongue was hanging out from the effort of its exercise activities.

“Great day for a hike.” commented the man.

“The view from the top is awesome today!” exclaimed a young girl around twelve years old. “You can see forever!” she added gleefully.

“Yeah, we’re looking forward to it.” Replied the blonde as the family finished loading up.

“C’mon!” Katie called to Dean as she passed through the walk-through gate.

Katie took off towards the hiking trail at a brisk pace while Dean locked the SUV and grabbed the backpack. It didn’t take the tall woman long to catch up to the blonde, then they settled into an easy hiking pace.

They passed the new soccer fields and watched a family of deer grazing on the grass then continued up the path towards the west meadow. The climb was not difficult at this level but soon it moved into the woods and began a more upward trek. The fire road had been recently worked on which made the climb easier than expected. Just before they came out into the meadow, the path steepend then turned to the right and allowed the women into a breathtaking view. A few more paces and they were fully into the meadow with a generous three hundred degree view of the surrounding countryside. The clear day made the view all the more spectacular.

“So… what do you think?” The blonde asked eagerly.

“It’s everything Tracy said it was.” Dean answered truthfully.

“Tracy?” Katie inquired. “You mean park and rec Tracy?”

“The one in the same.” Dean replied. “We’ve been friends for a very long time. Served together in the army. I was surprised to run into her at Wendy’s yesterday. She told me about her ‘pride and joy’ then.” Dean said with a smile on her face.

“Well it certainly is beautiful up here,” the blonde commented. “Let’s go up to the face and the mountain overlook. It’s just up this path.” Katie said leading the way up.

They were back in the woods now following the ‘Low Road’ to the overlook and the path became a bit narrower and much steeper. As they emerged from the woods, Katie turned left and hurried over to the edge. “Wow! What a sight!” She exclaimed. “You really can see forever today.”

Dean caught up with her and the two women just stood and gazed out over the view, completely intoxicated by the sight. Dean reached out and held the younger woman around her shoulder and Katie responded with her arm around Dean’s waist. “It really is nice up here.” Dean said. “I’m glad you were able to share this with me.” She continued as she pulled Katie into a hug and a promising kiss.

“No problem.” Katie replied emphatically. “I’ll bring you up here every day if you’ll pay me in kisses like that.”

“Mmm, like this?” Dean demonstrated only lingering longer in the contact.

“Umm… zactly.” The blonde mumbled between their lips.

“Mmm, guess we better be heading along the trail now.” Dean suggested, not really wanting to part from her embrace with the younger woman.

Katie nodded and they turned around and retraced their steps to where the path came to a “Y” intersection. “The way to the left goes around the other side of the mountain and eventually comes back down through the north meadow and the area the civil war re-enacters use for the Union camp.” Katie explained. “The way we’re going takes you past an old foundation from a turn of the century resort and has an exit on the upper meadow above the water tower. That’s the other view I told you about.” Katie continued as she led Dean into the woods on the chosen path.

Just before the path started to incline again, Katie stopped and pointed to a rock formation through the trees. “See that formation? It’s called ‘witches rock’ because it looks like a witch’s profile.” Dean followed her direction and smiled as she recognized a crooked nose and pointed chin with a rock slab overhead that made up the hat.

“Pretty neat,” Dean commented “but if you have any American Indian heritage, you could call it ‘Indian Rock’.” With a little imagination and some descriptive pointers Dean detailed the ‘Indian.’

“Yeah, you’re right.” Katie considered the profile. “Wonder if anyone calls it that?”

Dean just shrugged and then they continued their hike. It took another 20 minutes of lazy strolling before they came to the exit for the upper meadow. They would have missed it if Katie had not been here before since it was between two heavily limbed trees. As they passed through and walked out onto the meadow, they were greeted by another awesome picture created by Mother Nature’s palate.

Katie pointed out to the distance saying, “That’s Double Top Mountain over there. It’s over in the next county and is about seventy-five miles away.”

Dean reached into her backpack and pulled out her binoculars and made quite a show of viewing the scenery before she locked in on her intended target. “Nice” she commented. Then charged the coordinates to her memory before handing the binoculars over to Katie. She then took out her digital camera and went through the same charade before taking several shots of her target.

“How about lunch?” She inquired of the blonde woman. “I’ve worked up an appetite with all this crisp air and walking.”

“Great.” Responded Katie. “There’s some rocks over there that we can use to put our stuff on.” She led the way over to the rocks and the two women spent a leisurely lunch enjoying the view and the sandwiches and each other’s company. Dean noted the lay of the land, taking in the terrain with a skilled eye, picked out her observation spot and committed it to memory for her trek later tonight.

“Guess we better start down.” Dean suggested as she packed up the small amount of paper and wrappers that were left from their lunch.

“We can take this track down.” Katie pointed to a thin trail behind her.. “It’s a single track bike trail, but it’s used for hiking too. It comes out right by the water tower near the entrance.”

Dean nodded and they soon found themselves at the entrance where they loaded up the SUV and headed back out to the main road.

Once they got back down and into the truck, Katie turned to Dean and said “I have to work tonight.” She paused, then continued, “I help a caterer friend out sometimes when she needs it. Tonight is one of those nights. But I really wanted to thank you again for last night and allowing me to show you the mountain.”

“Oh.” Dean replied knowing that she had to ‘work’ tonight too. “That actually works out well. I need to meet someone tonight anyway regarding work.” Well, technically that’s not a lie, Dean mused, but it is a good thing Katie’s busy tonight. At least now, I won’t have to come up with an excuse why I can’t see her. Although I’d much rather be snuggling with her than that stand of trees up there. She completed that thought with a smile on her face. “And you’re welcome for last night and thanks for sharing the mountain with me.”

The ride back to Dean’s was progressing in silence with Dean lost in thought and a smile on her face until the young woman spoke. “Penny for your thoughts.”

“Hhmm?” Dean turned to catch the emerald eyes studying her.

“Well, something put that smile on your face.” The green eyes twinkled in question.

“I was just recalling how nice today has turned out.” Dean covered. “How about some hot chocolate at my place before you head back?”

“You must be reading my mind,” the young woman chuckled.

It took them another five minutes before they turned down the private road leading to Dean’s. As Dean opened the door, they were greeted by three, very loud, meowing cats. “Guess I better feed them first or I’ll never get them into the carriers.” Katie said as she headed toward the kitchen.

Dean took her backpack into the bedroom then went to the kitchen where she stopped at the doorway and just watched the beautiful young woman with her charges. You certainly are a beautiful surprise in my life, she commented to herself as she continued to watch Katie. Then she walked up behind Katie and placed her arms around her whispering in her ear, “You are really beautiful.”

Katie shivered as she felt Dean’s breath warm her ear. Turning in Dean’s arms, she faced the tall woman locking ice blues and emerald greens in intimate communication. Dean lowered her head and pulled Katie into a long sensual kiss that ignited their souls and fanned the flames of passion once more. As they parted from the kiss, Dean reached for Katie’s hand and quietly led her to her bedroom.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Saturday, 2100 Hours…

Dean and Tracy had just finished cleaning up the dinner dishes when Tracy’s partner came back from walking their German shepherd. “Bbrrrr! It’s really getting cold out there!” Colleen said as she took her coat and gloves off. “The stars are really something tonight. They’re so brilliant when there’s no moon.” She continued.

“Guess I better pull out my thermals,” Dean commented to Tracy, “or you’re gonna find a frozen body up there in the morning.”

“Nah,” protested Tracy, “I’ve gotten soft in my old age, I don’t go hiking in the cold anymore so it would be at least a week or two before we found you!” She chuckled and gave Dean a smirk. “That is, unless you’ve changed your mind about needing some back-up, then I’ll make sure we find your body before you freeze?” She asked hopefully.

“Just get that idea out of your head Tracy!” Dean admonished. “This is just an observation tonight, no need for back-up so you and Col here just stay warm and snuggled in your bed tonight! Ya got me!” She snarled.

“Yeah, yeah… you forget who you’re talking to Dean. I don’t get intimidated by you, remember?” Tracy winked at her and chuckled with Colleen as Dean joined in.

“Well, I better get going. Gotta get my stuff together and get up there soon.” The tall woman said as she gave Tracy and Colleen a hug. “Thanks for dinner. It was super!” She added as she grabbed her coat and headed to the door. “You’re sure Byron won’t mind if I park my SUV in his driveway?” She asked for the third time.

Tracy shook her head and said, “I already called him to let him know you have permission to be there tonight. Told him you’re checking it out for ROTC night maneuvers. He’s the one who suggested the driveway.” She reminded her.

“Okay.” Just wanted to make sure. “Thanks again.” Dean said as she opened the door.

“Hey!” Tracy called softly to Dean. “Just remember it’s a carry in, carry out park. Don’t leave any bodies behind.”

Dean nodded her head then said, “I promise” as she started up the SUV and headed back home.

Once home, Dean went to the bedroom and changed into her gear for the task that faced her. She pulled out her thermals and put them on, glad that she remembered to pack them, then added her black turtleneck sweater, black jeans, and black rough suede boots. Without the moon, I shouldn’t have to worry about reflections off regular issue boots, but why take a chance? She thought to herself. She added a black field jacket and black gloves. She’d use the black balaclava tonight instead of face camouflage. No sense scaring anyone at a stoplight, she mused. Then she grabbed her backpack that already held the night vision goggles and her 20x80 binoculars that gave her a field of vision of 1,000 yards. From her gun safe, she chose her 9mm Glock, checked the clip, put the safety back on, then returned it to it’s holster and added it to the pack with two more clips. Better to be prepared than not, she thought, not that I’m expecting trouble. She added a flashlight, then checked her Traser Night Diver watch and decided it was time to go.

At this time of night, it took her only a few minutes to get to the park. She pulled into the park supervisor’s driveway, picked up her backpack and headed up to the observation point she selected in the afternoon. The total trip from home to observation point took less than thirty minutes. Now comes the fun part, she groaned, hurry up and wait! God, how I hate surveillance. It was now only 0130 and if her information was correct, she had to wait another sixty minutes before she could expect any action, so she took her time getting set up. She attached the mini tripod to the binoculars then settled in for the wait.

She was in that position for at least fifteen minutes when she heard a noise coming up the trail. Could be some deer moving to keep warm, she thought. Just to be on the safe side, she stood quietly and moved in closer to her tree cover and slipped on her night vision goggles. There was the noise again, so she concentrated on the area it came from. Then she caught the motion of a person slowly moving towards her. The guy was decked out similar to her and if it hadn’t been for her exceptional hearing, she probably never would have heard the approach. She pulled back behind the tree further, took off the goggles, and waited for him to get nearer. Just as the figure was passing her protected area, she reached out and grabbed the guy from behind. No sooner than she engaged the stranger, she found herself on her back, with the darkly clad figure straddling her, her arms pinned under knees, and a forearm across her throat. What the hell! She thought. Who the hell is this guy! As she began to run through her release options, she met her attacker’s eyes and found the most gorgeous and familiar emerald green eyes peering at her. “You!” They gasped together. “What are you doing here?” Again, demanded in unison. Katie then released her captive upon recognizing the ice blue eyes that met hers.

“Looks like we both had to work tonite.” Katie said with a twinkle. “So, colonel, or is it colonel? What are we watchin’ tonight?” She asked narrowing her eyes in suspicion.

“It is colonel, but I’ll let you go first Katie, if it is Katie?” Dean returned with a smile and her own version of a suspicious look.

“Allow me to introduce myself, DEA Special Agent Katie O’Malley.” Katie answered truthfully, fairly certain that the woman across from her was not part of the evil she was on assignment to watch. “Now you.” She countered.

“Lt. Colonel Deanna Peterson, U. S. Army Intelligence.” Dean also replied truthfully. “What’s the DEA doing here?” The tall woman queried.

“Probably the same thing you’re here for, but why is the army involved?” Katie asked inquisitively then added. “You wouldn’t happen to have any ID on you would you?”

“Now, if I did, I wouldn’t be a very smart agent would I?” Dean asked with a bit of sarcasm in her voice before she continued. “I’m here on loan to the NSA, they needed my ‘special’ skills.” Dean replied, then looked at her watch and noticed it was almost 0200. “We can sort this out later, but I suggest we get to work now.” She commanded. Then both women settled in for the wait. The lodge they were observing was a huge old resort that had been very famous in it’s day. Now unfortunately, it was often devoid of guests, but was still a beauty of a piece of property on nearly fifty acres of land. The main lodge was situated in a meadow across the valley from their lookout post. It was three stories high, made of local bluestone, and resembled a castle with round turret-like sections at each corner of the building. The entire place was enclosed by an eight foot stone wall with two gated entrances on Hollow Road that provided a semicircular driveway at the main entrance. Another entrance off Bluestone Road led to the back entrance by the kitchen and to the out buildings behind the lodge. Their advantage point allowed them to see over the tall walls as well as see both entrances to the estate.

About 0215 the first car arrived. It was the black Lexus that Katie had seen at the diner. “I waited on those guys yesterday.” Katie whispered to Dean. “There were three of them. All Asians, one looked a lot like ‘Top Job’ from that old James Bond movie.” She described the men and told of her observation of one of them having a holster under his jacket. “He was the one carrying.” She informed Dean.

“Yeah, his name is Chung. Heavy duty body guard and so-so hit man,” Dean said waggling her hand. “The other two are brothers: Sammi and Jimmi Lu.” Dean said. They’re part of the Chi-Chong gang out of Bangkok.

“Hey, how come you know all this and the DEA doesn’t?” Katie asked a bit miffed.

“‘Cause, that’s part of my ‘special’ skills… remember, I’m Intelligence.” Dean said with a crooked smile and a wink.

About ten minutes later a Lincoln Town car pulled in and three more men exited. These appeared to be American or at least Caucasian. “Those guys are from the city, Katie said. I recognize the tall one. He’s Johnnie Papp, number two man from the New York mob family. Don’t know the other two for sure but, they look familiar.” She said as she zoomed in her scope for a better view.

“They should be, they’re from the Vegas and Chicago branches of the mob. Tony Cabini and Gary Stiller.” Dean filled in Katie. “Gary is the short bald one. He’s from Chicago.”

The next car was a Ford Expedition with three more “guests.” These guys were from the Columbian Cartel. “Carlos Sanchez, Julio Romero, and Tequez Ruiz,” said Katie as she identified the three men. “These guys are really nasty fellas.” Katie commented. “I’ve seen their files, and they’re slippery as eels.”

The final car had three members of the Yakuza from Toyko. Hiro Kamoto, Ito Sukazi, and Lin Yamakura . “Well, well,” commented Dean. “Guess she’s moved up and over in the world.”

“You must be talking about the female.” Katie correctly surmised since there was only one female in the group. “Who’s she?” She asked.

“A few years ago, she was one of the best police officers the Japanese had. Then her brother was killed in a drug bust. It really did a number on her reputation. She tried to clear Kao’s name, but it didn’t work out the way she wanted. Turned out her brother was in up to his eyeballs in the Yakuza. Even though her record was spotless, her fellow officers turned their backs on her, she became very bitter and promised vengeance for the law turning it’s back on her. I heard she was made an offer from the Yakuza. Guess she took it.”

As they continued to watch, several more cars dropped off groups of three people, all from different drug cartels across the world. Most were male, but there were also a few more females that arrived in the later groups. All in all, there were thirty representatives at this meeting leaving the total breakdown at twenty-five males, and five females. They noted that the driver’s for each of the groups unloaded luggage and took it in the lodge.

They waited for another hour after the last vehicle unloaded just to be sure they didn’t miss anyone.

“Looks like that’s it. Quite a gathering of evil, wouldn’t ya say?” Dean said as she looked over at Katie. Katie nodded her head in agreement then added. “We might as well head down. I’ve got to call this in.”

“Did you get the plate number of the last car?” Katie asked as she pulled out her note pad.

“Yep. The caddy looks like an Avis rental, Vermont plate 235 HHD.” Dean answered the young agent. “C’mon. We’ll get back to our vehicles and meet back at my place.” Dean said. “I think it’s a bit more private and secure than yours what with ‘Billy Bob and the Boys’ out looking for you and a good time.” The tall beauty chuckled.

Katie just shrugged and shook her head. “Guess I just attract that kind.” She chuckled.

“Are you putting me in the same category as ‘Billy Bob?” Dean asked feinting hurt.

“Nooo.” Katie said quickly then saw the smirk on Deans face and gave her a punch on the arm. The two women then made the short hike back down to the main entrance.

“Where did you leave your car?” Dean asked when she didn’t see it near the entrance.

“I came in from the other entrance.” Katie said pointing to a service road to the left of the walk-through. “I’ll just hike down there and meet you back at your place.”

“Nah! Hop in I’ll give you a lift.” Dean said as she opened the back of the SUV to put her backpack away in the secret compartment next to the wheel well. By 0330 the two women were back at Dean’s dressed in sweats and sipping mint medley tea.

“Did you know the DEA would be on your case?” Katie asked inquisitively.

“Nope. Did you know the NSA would be here?” Dean asked back.

“Nope.” Katie said with a disgusted shake. “Why can’t the agencies learn to work together. We could get so much more accomplished instead of duplicating our efforts. And why is the National Security Agency interested in druggies? I didn’t know they were considered a national security risk?”

“Turf issues and it’s never simple.” Was all the answer Dean could provide at the time. “So, you don’t mind if I check you out then?” Dean asked in all sincerity.

Katie was briefly taken aback with that question, but the longer she thought about it the more sense it made. “Not as long as you don’t mind if I check you out.” Was her honest reply.

With that both women pulled out their secure communications equipment and did exactly that. In a span of about ten minutes, they were both satisfied each one was the real McCoy.

“Now that the ‘cats out of the bag’ so to speak, my agency wants to cooperate fully with yours.” Dean announced. “Not that I wouldn’t anyway.” She added. Katie nodded indicating that hers did too but it was going to take some time to process all the approvals by both agencies. “By the way… just how did you… I mean… no one has ever been able to get me down that fast before. Where did you learn how to do that?”

Katie smiled and then chuckled a bit. “Well, I guess I have ‘special’ skills too!” She chuckled some more as emerald eyes twinkled brightly. “Actually, I got my first black belt at the age of eight. I learned several styles of martial arts and mastered them all before I went to college. They just seemed to come easily. So when I went through my training at Quantico… well, let’s just say they were quite surprised! I finished first in hand-to-hand for my class. They even wanted me to stay and teach there, but I couldn’t wait to get out in the field.” Katie said as her eyes misted over. “Maybe I should have, who knows… ” Then she shook herself out of her memories and asked, “So, what’s your take on tonight?”

Dean noticed the subtle mood shift but decided not to explore it at this time so she shelved the information for later retrieval. Instead she kept to the problem at hand. “Not sure yet. We need to get more information but that won’t be easy. That place is a fortress. We were lucky that the meadow in the park offered us such a good view. Got any ideas?” Dean inquired of the blonde.

“Well, I imagine one of us needs to infiltrate somehow. Maybe get hired on the house staff or something then plant a few bugs.” Katie said thoughtfully

“No bugs. I’m sure they’ll sweep the place on a regular basis. I’ve got some long distance listening equipment coming in tomorrow. That should work better. It wouldn’t hurt to get inside though and check out the place and security arrangements.” Dean offered. “But you’ll have to be the one to go in. I’m sure Lin would recognize me.”

“How well does she know you?” Katie asked.

“Uh… mmm… too well, I’m afraid.” Dean answered with a slight tint of color coming to her cheeks.

“Oh?” Said the blonde a bit testily. Now why is the green eyed monster showing up now? Katie thought. You just met Dean two days ago. Surely she’s had other lovers before you. Get over it! “Sorry.” She said apologetically.

‘S’okay.” Dean said locking eyes with the blonde then deciding to take the plunge and drop her guard a bit. “Believe me, it was over a long time ago.” She moved closer to Katie and put her hand on her cheek, gently caressing it with her thumb. “It’s been a very long time since I’ve made love with anyone, but today… it was very familiar, like we were old lovers and not new ones. I can’t explain it. I’ve never had an experience like this before.” Dean said apprehensively knowing that this was not the way a professional in the field should be reacting. Knowing but not heeding the warning bells going off in her head.

“Yes, I know what you mean, I felt it too.” Katie answered honestly. She reached up and held Dean’s hand and kissed the palm. Damn, here I go breaking one of the biggest rules in the agency: Never get personally involved with your partner. But then, she’s not really my partner now is she? Before she knew it, she heard herself replying to Dean. “I knew I was attracted to you when I first saw you in the diner, and that I wanted to get to know you better.” The blonde said cautiously. “Does that make sense to you?”

“Absolute sense.” Dean said with a smile. “I’d had a similar feeling myself.” Then she bent forward and kissed Katie longingly, passionately, and very thoroughly. As lips met lips and tongues dueled, hands explored zippers and buttons, and articles of clothing soon left a trail leading to the bedroom. Three sets of eyes watched the duo leave the living room then squeezed their eyes shut and began to purr softly.

PART II

Wednesday… 2000 Hours…

It had been three very busy days since the arrival of the drug cartel representatives. Dean’s listening equipment arrived on schedule along with some more advanced surveillance equipment and with a little help from Tracy everything was safely and secretly ensconced on the mountain. Dean was thankful for the good luck of having found Tracy in such a useful position to help out. She knew that she could trust her completely and it helped to make her job that much easier. Dean was now officially a volunteer for the park department on ‘park patrol’ which presumed to keep unwanted ATV’s and hunters off the mountain. One look at the intimidating Amazonian and most would-be trespassers quickly changed their minds. In two days the word spread and Dean no longer had to watch over her shoulder for unwanted guests. Hikers still came up occasionally, but Dean usually fed them a line about studying the flora and fauna of the mountain and capturing the sounds of nature for an educational video. Soon even the hikers did not want to interrupt a ‘work-in-progress.’ It also made her coming and going acceptable to the neighbors since she wore official park attire.

Coordinating the stake-out with the DEA agent was also working out quite well. She found the young agent extremely capable and very creative at problem solving. The first problem she attacked was the growing lack of natural cover for the surveillance equipment with the trees and shrubs losing their foliage. It was Katie’s idea to use the nature study/video idea as a cover, thus allowing a camouflage structure to be established as a ‘blind.’ She also managed to get herself hired as a part-time maid at the lodge used by the drug cartels. She would be starting that duty tomorrow so she quit her jobs at Burp & Freddies and the real estate office. These covers had outlived their usefulness since her targets and location were now identified. She was now free to do more research on the lodge guests as well as relieve Dean at the ‘blind’ after dark. Actual surveillance work would soon be moved indoors once the high-tech equipment was installed.

Today, Dean was spending the morning installing the high-tech equipment that would allow them to observe via remote control. Tracy suggested they use an empty office at the parks & recreation building for their control room. Although Dean did not want to get any civilians involved, it seemed the best location since they were ‘volunteers’ for the department. It legitimized their coming and going on the mountain even more. Tracy had insisted that it would be best for the operation’s cover, and at this time of year, things were so slow at the office that no one would know they were there anyway. Now all that remained was to settle in and hope that they could figure out what the gathering was all about.

“That’s the last of it.” Dean signaled to Tracy as she put the last box of equipment into the office. “I’ll get started on hooking everything up so Katie can come down off the mountain by lunch time.”

“You really like the kid don’t you?” Tracy asked with a sly grin on her face.

“Yeah, I do. She’s really quite intelligent and has strengths where I have weaknesses. We seem to be making a good team.”

“Excuse me. Did I hear you say you have weaknesses?” Tracy asked with wide eyes.

“Oh come on Tracy, you of all people know I do!” Dean laughed.

“Yeah, like shoot first and ask questions later?” Tracy offered then immediately regretted using that particular euphemism.

Dean just nodded her head and flashed back to her last assignment. It was a typical assignment for her and her ‘special’ skills. It seemed her superiors never minded her ruthless tactics because she always produced the desired results. She had been sent to Bosnia to ‘rescue’ the daughter of a NATO official. The young girl was kidnapped from her home in England and was being held hostage in Bosnia as leverage to keep her father’s the troops under his command out of certain areas. This endangered the lives of many NATO forces, among them many American troops. Dean accomplished the job quickly, but the body count left behind was staggering. She had to assume that some of the victims were probably innocent bystanders that just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Their deaths could have been avoided if she had taken a bit more time to ask questions first and shoot later, but it was a war zone, and many lives were at stake. Innocent people often died in a war, it was to be expected. She did her job quickly and effectively. In and out, mission accomplished. It earned her the promotion to Lt. Colonel. But the ruthlessness was starting to affect her and the faces of the dead haunted her dreams.

Tracy looked at the sadness on her friend’s face wondering which particular nightmare she was reliving at that moment. “Sorry, Dean, I used a rather poor choice of words.” Tracy said as she reached out and touched her friend’s shoulder.

Dean just shook her head and shrugged. “It’s not your fault Tracy, I’m the one who made the choice to become what I am. And I’m the one who has to live with that choice. It’s just getting harder to live with is all.”

“You know Dean, anytime you want to talk, I’m here to listen. I’m not in the Army anymore so my security clearance may be subject to scrutiny, but if you remember, I have very tight lips.” Tracy offered softly as she gave her friend a gentle hug. Tracy remembered the first time she met Dean. She was Chief of Patient Administration for a five hundred bed army hospital in the mid-west and was reviewing the medical records of the current influx of new patients. Dean had just successfully completed her second ‘special’ assignment and was lucky to get out of it alive. She arrived at the medical facility hanging on by a thread and sporting several new openings in her torso that were not supposed to be there. Just the loss of blood alone would have doomed an ordinary person. Thank the gods, she was extraordinary. Tracy had made a point of visiting this patient on a regular basis to track her progress. Tracking soon led to interest, which soon developed into friendship. They had been friends ever since and their military paths often crossed. Tracy reflected that it was great to see her old friend again and hoped this assignment would not become a repeat of their original meeting.

“Yeah, and I appreciate it. Maybe someday I’ll be able to talk about it but right now I’ve got work to do.” The tall woman smiled at her friend then went into the small office to begin the final installation of her remote surveillance control room and to look back on her life and it’s secrets. It occurred to Dean that since meeting the young blonde she had changed. She now had a purpose in life worth living for. That is, if Katie wants me in her life. Dean knew that her ‘special’ skills were largely due to a lack of fear and a deep burning rage that at times was difficult to control. She could accomplish more than her peers because she never feared death. On the contrary, she dealt it out so often it almost felt like and old friend. She knew that some day, her time would come, but she never worried about when or where. Now, however, she was finding herself falling helplessly in love. And falling in love was something she had never really expected to happen in her life. Sure, she had many lovers over the years, but the young agent was different. She was finding herself looking forward to the future. Looking forward to seeing those emerald eyes, hearing her laughter, and feeling her touch. And she was beginning to understand fear. In the past Dean had lost partners on assignments and could accept the loss as part of the job. Now though, that was totally unacceptable. This realization was adding another dimension to her job and another set of priorities. She feared for Katie’s safety and that was becoming her first priority. She knew the assignment always had to come first, but her heart was telling her otherwise. She just hoped she would never have to choose between the two.

By 1230, the installation was complete and Katie was signaled to come to the office. Five minutes later, Katie walked in to the control room and surveyed Dean’s handiwork. “Not bad Colonel. You army folk sure have the toys!” She said as she checked out the room with a low whistle. “This stuff will certainly make the surveillance a lot more comfortable. I’m sure glad we ran into each other. I’ll certainly be a lot warmer than I had counted on.”

“Well, at least you know some of that appropriations money went to good use.” Dean chuckled as she began to run the young agent through the various pieces of equipment and how to use them.

“Wow! That’s cool!” The blonde exclaimed as Dean demonstrated the range of the visual scanning camera. It was so powerful that Dean was able to focus on a clock located on the fireplace mantle in the lodge. It read 12:45.

“Hmm,” Dean murmured, “they need to re-set the clock. It’s off by two minutes.”

“Of course, it’s only good when the curtains are open or for outside views.” Katie continued.

“Yep, but wait till you see this.” Dean said as she punched up another set of controls that showed the occupants walking through the lodge as though they were being x-rayed. “This is a TDSC unit, or thermo-dynamic scanning converter.” She said proudly. “If it’s a warm body, I can find it! It’s similar to the satellite version, only on a smaller scale.”

“Now that’s really cool!” The young agent was very impressed. “How about audio? Can you enhance that?”

“Not as much as I would like. Unfortunately enhancing that also enhances all the other sounds between here and there.” The tall woman explained. “I can fine tune on one person, two if they’re standing close together, it’s not too bad. Listen.” She gave the blonde a set of headphones and made some adjustments highlighting the kitchen area and focusing on one of the warm bodies on the screen. The person selected had a small green dot now showing on the viewing screen indicating the fine tuning to that individual’s location. As they watched and listened, a very distant elderly female voice could be heard.

“They said they wanted to change the menu to eggplant parm for the guests from Chicago, and the one’s from Japan want fresh sushi.” The voice said. “You’d think I’m running a damn restaurant here! Why the hell can’t they all eat the same thing!”

“Ya, right!” Said another voice only it was much fainter. “I sure don’t like running back and forth to the grocery store all day! Where the hell am I going to get fresh fish for sushi at this time of day? It’s not like I can run down to the Fulton Fish market just like that!” The voice ended with a snap of the fingers.

“Mmm, sounds like dissention in the hired help?” Dean commented with a smile.

“Yeah,” Replied the blonde, “but if you ask me, the vocal reception is awesome!”

“Ahh, it’s okay for fine spectrum, but it can get pretty garbled on broad spectrum. Are you up for some lunch?” A set of blue eyes peered over to where the blonde was sitting.

“Are you kidding? I’m always up for food!” And with that the young agent stood, set down her headphones and opened the door to the outer offices. “Anybody out here interested in food?” She called out.

“Yeah!” Came the simultaneous answer from Tracy and her secretary Linna. Dean in the meantime set the second VCR and tape recorder up to capture the events at the lodge while they would be at lunch. She always had one set taping, but when it was unattended, she’d turn on the second set. The two agents weren’t worried about missing anything at this point in the surveillance so they decided to both could go for lunch.

Linna wasn’t exactly sure what the two women were doing in the next office, but she trusted Tracy even though her instincts told her they didn’t look like scientists. Besides, she really enjoyed the enthusiasm of the younger woman. The tall dark haired woman on the other hand, was more of an enigma to her, but she was beginning to warm up to her too. “How about Italian?” Linna suggested. “Gino makes the best bruschetta and calzones in town! One thing this town has lots of besides lawyers is restaurants!” Linna gaily offered as they took off for the short ride to Gino’s. “Guess it’s a good thing we get a lot of city folk wanting to either start or end their careers here in the Catskills!”

Forty-five minutes later they were back at the office still enjoying the lingering taste of garlic and Italian sauce. Tracy and Linna went into their respective areas while Dean and Katie went into theirs. “Let’s see what went on while we were gone shall we?” Dean reached over and rewound the equipment and the two women sat down to watch.

“Hey, Johnnie. What time is this new guy coming in?” Voice #1

“Tonight, around midnight is what I was told.” Replied Johnnie.

“So. Ya figure we’ll find out just what this is all about then?” Voice #1

“Yeah, probably. All I know is that I’m getting really creeped out by some of these dudes here. Of, course some of the broads aren’t bad for the eyes if ya know what I mean!” Johnnie said with a lecherous laugh.

“Ya can forget that Johnnie. Them broads is colder than an icebergs! If I can’t get one of ‘em to heat up, nobody can!” Voice #3

Laughter filled the room as the men continued to make crude remarks about the five women in attendance.

Voice #3 spoke again. “Man, you see the size of that one guy! He must go 270 or more. I’d hate to have to tangle with him!”

“Nah! Voice #2 said. “This little piece here is a great equalizer. Especially with them armor piercing rounds in it!” More laughter.

“Hmm,” Dean said, “Guess we can forget about wearing any vests for protection. Never liked them anyway. Too bulky.”

“They’re just not made for the female body.” Katie added with a twinkle of her emerald eyes. “I feel like I’m in a vise when I wear mine and it takes forever for my breasts to get back to normal.”

Dean looked at the blonde with a wicked twinkle of her own then scanned the mentioned breasts as her mouth curled up in a smile. “We can’t be having any of that now, can we?” She said in a low seductive growl.

The rest of the afternoon and evening was uneventful although they did pick up a few snatches of conversation that could prove to be useful. Katie went home for a quick nap and to feed the cats and medicate Sugar. She returned to the office around 2100. “Dean?” Katie asked softly.

“Hmm?” Dean answered without looking up.

“Don’t you want to catch a nap or something? We still have about three hours before that guy is supposed to show up.” She offered.

“Nah, I’m fine. I don’t want to take the time to go back to the cabin right now. But maybe I’ll stretch out on Tracy’s couch for a bit.” She said getting up and stretching.

“Let me know if anything develops.”

Katie nodded as she accepted the headphones from Dean then settled in for her turn at the console. At about 2330 she walked into Tracy’s office and nudged Dean awake. “Hey gorgeous. Time to get up.”

Blue eyes slowly opened and focused on Katie. “Mmm, I must have died and gone to heaven. There’s this beautiful angel watching over me.” Dean said with a big dazzling smile that took Katie’s breath away.

“Close, but no cigar.” The young woman answered as she gently stroked Dean’s hair. “It’s almost midnight. We better tune in on the new arrival.”

“Spoil sport!” Dean joked.

The two women went back to the surveillance room and donned their headphones in anticipation of the new arrival. At precisely midnight, they saw the black limo pull into the lodge compound. Dean decided it wasn’t necessary to use the TDSC unit until Katie infiltrated the lodge tomorrow. It was too dark to make out the face of the arrival, but once he was inside Dean had no problem identifying him by his voice alone. It was General Andre Kasimov, former director of the KGB and now national security director for the new Russian regime.

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen.” The Russian began in a heavy accent. “I’m glad you were all able to make it here for this gathering. And… I’m sure you’re all wondering why I have called together such a diverse group.” He added smiling as he waved his arms slowly around the room indicating the people gathered in the living room. “But, I’m afraid, I will have to ask for your patience just a bit longer. Once my aide Dimitri confirms the security of this estate, I will gladly bring you all into my plans at dinner tomorrow. Until then, I suggest you all get a good night’s sleep.” With that, Andre exited the living room and went directly to his quarter’s. These were reserved for him on the first floor, next to the den. There were immediate mumbles from the other participants after the Russian left. These ran the gamut from curiosity to distrust but all agreed that the Russian’s arrogance was unacceptable. Slowly, each of the representatives left for their own rooms. The last to leave were Lin and Ito.

“So Ito, what do you know of this Russian?” Lin asked her companion.

“He once was KGB, now he’s with their National Security. I wonder what he wants from us?” Ito said thoughtfully.

“Maybe he wants part of the action? Wants to eliminate the current drug czars and put himself in their place?” She offered.

“No, no.” Ito said emphasizing with a shake of his head. “He could do that without our help. In fact, I have sources that say he IS the drug czar for Russia, only he keeps his identity a secret.”

“Hmm. I wonder what he’s up to then…. Guess we’ll find out tomorrow.” Then they both left arm in arm for their rooms.

Kasimov! Dean’s conscience whispered. You old devil. So… we finally meet again.

With a sigh Dean said. “I was really hoping we’d get what we needed tonight so you wouldn’t have to go in under cover tomorrow. I just don’t trust that much evil gathered in one place. Especially with Kasimov in the picture now. Dean thought to herself. “That’s one very evil man who doesn’t know how to play nice. This can’t be good.” Dean said as she shook her head. “Just what’s the old general up to?”

“Well we’ll have to wait till tomorrow like everyone else. And, you’ll be here watching over me, so I’ll be safe.” Katie said as she placed her hand on Dean’s shoulder and gave her a gentle squeeze.

“That’s true, but I don’t have an army of reinforcements sitting outside that gate to bail you out if necessary.” Dean said as she peered intently into the young agents emerald eyes. “I wish I could go in, not you. But, just in case, I want you to wear this necklace tomorrow.” Dean pulled out a beautiful silver chain with an emerald green stone on it. “This won’t show up on any security sweeps, but it will allow me to locate you anywhere in the house. It’ll show up as a blue dot on the screen. That way I can pick you out from the rest and keep track of your movements.” She added with a grin. “If you notice anything that may be a security issue for us, just cough, and I’ll mark the location on the layout map.”

“Got it, and don’t worry,” Katie said as she gave Dean a soft kiss on her forehead, “I have no intention of getting caught. Besides, I can handle myself pretty well remember?”

“You just got lucky that night. Don’t forget there’s a hell of a lot more of them!” The dark woman said standing and stretching. “When do you have to be there?”

“I report at 6:30 AM. I’m the downstairs maid.” Katie said with a smile and a curtsy.

“Okay. Just BE careful. Do your maid thing, and don’t try to do anything that would be suspicious. Get a feel for the layout and keep your eyes peeled for anything that might be useful.” Dean instructed. “I don’t want anything to happen to you.” She added as she pulled the young agent into a hug and a light kiss.

“Mmm, I’ll be fine.” Katie answered her around Dean’s lips. “I don’t want anything to happen to me either.”

“Looks like we can put the taping machines on until morning. I’ll be coming in around 0530. I’ll meet you here before you report in. We can calibrate the necklace then.” The tall woman released Katie reluctantly then they checked the equipment once more before they locked up the office and left for their respective homes. Tomorrow would be a very long day and both needed to get a good night’s rest.

* * * * * *

Thursday… 0500 Hours

Dean had finished her morning run and was coming out of the shower feeling fairly invigorated considering she had less than four hours of sleep. She was dressed and on her way by 0515. By the time she pulled into the parking lot and unlocked the doors, Katie was right behind her.

“Morning.” Dean said. “Nice outfit.” She added in a mocking tone noting the very short skirt of the uniform and the lacy apron.

“Hey!” Katie replied smacking Dean’s arm lightly. “I’m not quite awake yet so I won’t take offense for that remark! How’re you feeling this morning?”

“Not bad considering.” The tall woman responded. “Too bad Tracy doesn’t have a shower in this place or I’d have stayed here all night.”

“Well, hopefully we’ll get to the bottom of this soon.” Katie offered. “You could have stayed with me last night. My place is closer.” She added with a smile and a wink.

“Yeah, then neither one of us would have gotten any sleep!” Dean chuckled.

Dean calibrated the necklace while Katie made some coffee for herself and some tea for Dean. They quickly reviewed the tapes from the past four hours noting that no one stirred during the night, but activity was beginning in the kitchen.

“Probably the cook getting breakfast ready.” Dean commented. “Who are you supposed to report to?”

“Actually, the cook is in charge of the hired help. A Mrs. Ellen Schlott.” Katie answered. “I checked her out and she’s clean. A local woman. Been in this area all her life. Only thing on her record is a speeding ticket back in ‘69.”

“Good.” Dean said nodding her head. “Try to keep track of the innocent bystanders. We wouldn’t want them to get in the way or get hurt.” Getting a conscience now, eh? Her little voice said sarcastically. Yes! She answered. Guess it’s about time I

start asking questions first and shooting later. And I certainly don’t want Katie to have to live with any regrets.

“Well, I better be off. Don’t want to be late on my first day.” Katie said more enthusiastically after two cups of very strong coffee.

The young agent slipped the necklace on, then winked at Dean before she walked out the door. Dean concentrated on the lodge and scanned all the rooms. The only action so far, was in the kitchen. Guess they’re sleeping in today. Dean mused. Wish I was sleeping in… with my arms wrapped around a beautiful blonde… instead of being here. “Whoa!” Dean said out loud to no one. “Stick to the program Dean!” She admonished herself then went back to the task at hand. She watched as Katie reported to the cook in the kitchen area and listened as she got her duties for the morning. Vacuum the living room first, then the rest of the downstairs except for the living quarters by the den. Then dust and straighten up the rooms. At 9:00 she was to return and set the dining room buffet table with the breakfast items. Katie was given a quick tour of the downstairs, then shown to the pantry that held the cleaning tools and items were located and left to do her job.

* * * * * *

Around 0900 hours, there was a knock on the door. “Come in.” Dean said as she switched to the camera for the wildlife on the mountain and played the nature sounds tape over the speakers in the room while she continued to listen to conversations at the lodge on her headphones.

“It’s just me.” Came Linna’s voice. “Just thought I’d see if you need anything.”

“Yeah, thanks. I could do with a cup of tea.” Dean said displaying a pleasant smile.

“Any particular kind? We’ve got all sorts.”

“Any mint medley?” Dean asked hopefully.

“You bet. Be right back.” Then Linna turned and went to the kitchen area for the cup of tea. Within minutes she was back at the door offering Dean the steaming cup.

“Thanks.” Said Dean as she accepted the cup.

“So… how long have you been studying nature?” Linna asked in an effort to be friendly as well as try to find out more about the two mysterious ‘scientists.’

“Oh, just a few years now.” Dean answered without offering too much else.

“Has Katie been with you for that long?” Linna continued the inquisition.

“Umm, no. She just joined me recently.” The tall woman answered starting to get a bit uncomfortable.

“Really? You two just seem like you’ve been working together for a long time.” The secretary commented.

“Well, it’s just that we have common interests. You know. Shop talk and all.” The blue eyes were now flitting back towards the TV screen. “I really need to get back to work.” She said to Linna. “Thanks again for the tea.”

“Oh. Yeah. Okay. You’re welcome.” Came the volley of answers as Linna moved to leave the office and closed the door behind her. As she walked back to her office, Linna couldn’t help but wonder what was really up with the women. She couldn’t imagine watching and listening to birds chirping and squirrels chattering and deer munching to be so interesting, and yet, the blue eyes were definitely wanting to focus on the screen. Two and two just weren’t adding up to four in this case. She also knew that Dean was an old army friend of Tracy’s and she was dead sure that Tracy’s military career did not include ornithology! Well, she vowed, I’ll get to the bottom of this mystery one way or another.

Phew! Dean thought as she flicked the screen back on to the lodge view. I thought she’d never leave. Now, where in the world was Katie when she coughed those two times? At present Dean located Katie back in the kitchen where she was chatting away with the cook.

“So Mrs. Schlott. How long have you worked here at the lodge?” Katie asked sweetly.

“Just call me El sweetie.” Said the seventy-ish cook. “I’ve been here workin’ for Mr. G for almost fifty years.” She said with a sigh. “Through the good times and the bad. We thought we were going to have to find new jobs when the lodge closed this season. Mr. G wanted to sell it, but then this Mr. Smirnoff rented, with an option to buy the lodge, for the next six months at three times the going rate! Well, you know Mr. G wasn’t going to pass that up, so he took it. The economy isn’t what it used to be in the resort world around these parts. Don’t know what we’d do if the tourist trade went completely down the toilet!”

“Wow!” Katie said encouragingly. “Why do you suppose he offered three times the money?”

“Who knows. Rich people don’t have to have reasons. Maybe he just liked the place. Then he asked Mr. G if he could make special upgrades to the place. Without cost to Mr. G of course!” El said approvingly.

“What kind of upgrades?” The young blonde asked.

“Oh, I don’t know.” The cook replied. “Something to do with the wiring and security alarms or something. We weren’t here when the work was done. Mr. Smirnoff gave us a five week paid vacation during the renovations plus a $2,000 dollar bonus!” She said proudly. “Me and Ezra went to Disneyland with our grand kids!” El nodded in obvious delight. “Had a hoot of a time too!”

“Cool.” Replied the blonde. “That was really generous of Mr. Smirnoff. He must be a really nice man.”

“I wouldn’t know. I’ve never met the man. Today will be the first time I meet him face to face.” El said with a thoughtful expression. “Did all the set up over the phone with Mr. G.”

“Well, I better get back to work. I want to make a good impression on such a nice man. Thanks for the coffee El.” Katie said as she put her dusting supplies away and started to help Ezra with the breakfast trays for the buffet.

“Sure thing sweetie, anytime.” The cook responded as she went back to the oven to check on the biscuits.

Wiring and security alarms, thought Katie as she busied herself with the breakfast items. Nothing stands out as obvious. I’ll just take another trip around and see if I can detect anything. As she finished putting up the buffet, the ‘guests’ started to come down the stairs. She smiled as she served coffee and tea to the varied group of men and women. Noting that they all seemed a bit on edge. She tried to be as pleasant as possible and even tried to start conversations with some of them, but to no avail. They obviously considered themselves above her station in life and ignored her. The only one who spoke back to her was Lin. At least she wasn’t afraid to comment on the service or the fine weather, Katie noted. And she is indeed beautiful and seemed to be just as curious about her colleagues as Katie was. Katie was just about to ask her another question when Ito came up to Lin and led her away to the far side of the room speaking to her softly in Japanese. Lin listened intently to his comments then spared a quick glance at Katie and flushed when she saw Katie watching her before returning her attention to Ito.

Now what was that all about, Katie thought. Maybe he’s hitting on her. She continued the thought. Or maybe she’s hitting on me? Hmm, interesting. Then she pulled her attention back to her duties as General Kasimov entered the room.

“Good morning ladies and gentlemen.” He bellowed like a benevolent patriarch. “I hope you have been finding your stay here satisfactory. My associate, Natasha, and I will be out for most of the day, however we will return in time for our dinner meeting. Dimitri will remain here today to conduct the business I informed you about last night. Please extend him every courtesy so he may complete his duties by this evening. For those of you that may be interested, I have obtained one day non-resident hunting permits, secured proper equipment, and have scheduled transportation to a hunting camp near by. See Natasha directly if you are interested.” With that, the general proceeded to the buffet for his breakfast as Natasha handled the eager hunters. Most of the men and three of the women signed up for the hunting party. They all quickly vacated the dining area and headed to their rooms to get ready for the transportation pick-up.

Katie took this all in with a mute expression but was very glad there would be so many less bodies around if she had the opportunity to explore. She came out of her thoughts just in time to see the general approach her with his laden plate.

“Bring coffee to my table.” He said in a command tone.

“Yes sir.” Katie responded quickly.

When she brought the requested coffee over and placed it on his table she was startled by his sudden reach for her hand. “You are the new maid I’m told.” He said as he released her hand.

“Yes sir.” Katie said quietly, trying not to show displeasure at his uninvited touch.

“How old are you?” He asked curiously.

“Twenty, sir.” She said softly knowing that she could easily pass for that age.

“Why aren’t you at university?” He continued.

“My parents are out of work and I need to help support them and my sister until they can find work again.” Katie said convincingly. It was the story they had concocted for the job interview.

“You are much too beautiful to be waiting tables and cleaning houses.” He said with a smug attitude and returned his hand to hers as he began to stroke it. “You should be at university learning to be an actress or a model. Perhaps I could help you.” He added with a lecherous sneer.

“Thank you sir. That’s very kind of you, but I have my family to think about.” She answered as her neck started to shade pink. Not with the affection he assumed, but with controlled anger at his arrogance and touch. He was a very handsome man in his late fifties, but his pompous attitude would have turned anyone off. She slid her hand out from under his and returned to her station. Bastard, she said to herself. He is not a nice man at all. Wonder if El knows about this. Probably not. Just stay cool kiddo, don’t blow the cover, play nice with the creeps..

* * * * *

Dean listened intently to the conversation between Katie and Kasimov, anger growing with each word out of the general’s mouth. He hasn’t changed a bit the old bastard! Dean considered. I should have warned Katie last night. Well, her reaction is more realistic this way. I probably would have punched him out! This thought amused Dean as she visualized her scenario with the promiscuous general. Her visualization was stopped however by another knock on the door. “Just a minute.” She called as she got up to see who was at the door. This time it was Tracy.

“Hey.” She said as she opened the door for Tracy to enter.

“Dean.” Tracy said as she closed the door behind her. “I just wanted to apologize about Linna. She can be a tenacious individual when she sets her mind to something. I don’t think she’s buying the story about the nature video and I’m sure she suspects our ‘scientists’ of evil doing. She’s been pumping me all morning.” Tracy said with a smile. “I’ve tried to throw her off course and spin some yarns about you being in the animal research division, but I don’t think she went for it.” A sigh, “I just wanted to forewarn you.” Tracy added.

“She was already in here this morning.” Dean said with a smirk as Tracy’s eyes widened in shock. “Don’t worry, she didn’t see anything. I switched cameras before she came in.” Dean motioned Tracy over to a chair by the console as she returned the headphones to her head.

“So, how’s it going?” Tracy asked tentatively.

“Not bad, but still no big news. It involves Kasimov though so it’s got to be a real ball buster.” Dean commented.

“Kasimov! No kidding!” Tracy said then added, “Isn’t he the one responsible for all those holes in you when we first met?”

“One in the same.” Dean nodded. “Evil bastard. I just can’t figure what game he’s playing this time. And with the cartel’s involvement, I’m really at a loss. Any ideas?”

“No, but I’ll mull it over.” Tracy offered. “Anything I can do to help out in the meantime?”

“Yeah, keep a lid on Linna if you can.”

“Tough assignment!” Tracy muttered. “But I’ll work on her.”

“It’s bad enough I’ve gotten you involved. I just don’t want anyone else to get in the way and get hurt. I don’t think I can live with anymore ghosts.” Dean said as she leveled a gaze at Tracy.

“Roger. I’ll do my best.” Tracy nodded understanding her friends comment completely.

The two women sat in the control room for a while longer as Dean explained the new technology to Tracy. She really was impressed with the quality of the surveillance equipment and asked several questions regarding the range, quality, and penetration abilities. The TDSC unit was the highlight as they both tracked the blue dot representing Katie through the lodge.

* * * * *

After cleaning up the dining area from breakfast, Katie was instructed to help the upstairs maid, Darla, clean the sleeping rooms. The handful of ‘guests’ that remained were in the game room either reading, watching TV, or playing some billiards. The only one’s that remained were Lin and Ito, Tony Cabrini, Julio Romero, Rafael Lonzo and Trina Carbona from the Sicilian group, and of course Dimitri. As she went up the stairs she noticed a small circle just under the first step below the first landing. Katie quickly looked around then dropped some of her cleaning supplies on the stairs so she could get a closer look. Hmm. Definitely a security device of some kind, she thought. Probably a laser beam by the looks of it. She quickly picked up her things and checked the rest of the steps as she went up. There were eight more of them on the way, all in slightly different locations and seemingly different angles. She coughed as she stepped on the last stair at the top. She’d have to remember to check the bottom stairs for any she may have missed.

She met Darla in the first room and helped the young girl with that room. Once finished, Katie suggested that they split up so they could get done faster and Darla eagerly agreed. Katie opted to take the rooms on the left side of the hallway, and Darla the right side. She figured that tomorrow they could switch sides and she’d have access to all the rooms. At each room she systematically searched as she cleaned and changed the sheets. Well it looks as though these guys didn’t bring a whole lot of anything but clothes. Katie thought as she continued her search. Maybe they were instructed not to bring anything or else they were carrying anything important with them. She knew they had weapons because of the conversation about the armor piercing bullets the night before. Maybe each room has a personal safe? She thought, as she still found no evidence of anything out of the ordinary, not even any sign of security devices. She decided to pump El at lunch and see what she could find out.

Once the rooms were done, the two maids had only the hall to clean before lunch would be served at 1:00 pm. Katie was just about done when she noticed a series of circles similar to the ones on the stairs. These were cleverly hidden in knot holes in the pine wainscot of the hallway. She coughed again. She also noticed strategically placed pillars with statues of Greek gods and goddesses in the corners. Taking her duster, she decided to give them the once over. Eureka! She shouted in her mind. Each of the statues had miniscule camera lenses inserted in the hollows of the eyes. Figuring she may be watched, she continued her cleaning with added vigor and coughed at the fictitious dust she stirred up. Maybe the old bastard will give me a raise for the extra effort, she thought as she began to whistle softly as she worked.

Lunch was served precisely at 1:00 pm., and during that time, Katie tried to strike up a conversation with the remaining guests. She noticed Lin watching her so she made an effort to go to her table to see if anything else was required.

“Can I get you anything else?” She inquired of the two occupants at the table.

“Yes,” replied Lin. “I would like some more tea please.” She added as she focused her gaze directly into the emerald eyes of the young agent and smiled.

It took a second before Katie responded and as she turned to get the requested tea she noticed Lin smiling broadly now. Ito noticed it too and shook his head in admiration then commented to his table mate in Japanese.

Katie returned with the tea and asked if there would be anything else. Lin said no, but she would be sure to let her know if she needed anything then smiled a very gracious smile at the young agent. Phew! That was intense. Katie thought to herself. I wonder if she’s on to me? That look felt like she could see clear through me. But then, if she had, I may not be standing here wondering about it. Wonder what she’s up to…

After lunch, Katie and Darla helped clean the dining area and the kitchen with Ezra and El. As she completed her tasks, she tried to pump El for any information that may be useful noting that some of the women had some very nice looking jewelry on and wondered if the renovations included personal safes or if there was a general safe for that sort of thing.

“Why no, sweetie. That wouldn’t be necessary since they’re already in each of the rooms.” The cook smiled at the concern the young maid was showing for her ‘guests.’

“Really?” Katie said playing the wide eyed role. “I sure didn’t see any when I was helping Darla.”

“Well, Mr. G was a stickler for that kind of thing after one of his guests was ‘liberated’ of her diamond necklace back in the ‘50’s. Isn’t that right Ezra?” She turned to ask her husband.

“Yep. Mr. G had them installed in each bathroom behind the mirrors. I think some of them still work.” He added thoughtfully.

“Wow!” Katie said. “I bet this place has lots of little nooks and crannys for hiding things. Just like in the old gangster movie’s on TV.”

“Oh, my yes.” Replied the cook again. “Mr. G’s father was thought to have been in the Dutch Shultz mob during the ‘20’s. But it was never proved. He did have a ‘speak easy’ in the lodge though. All the big wigs in the county came here. My mother was a cook here then. She used to tell us some pretty wild stories of goings on in that speak easy. My older sister and I grew up in this lodge in the thirties and forties.” El said wistfully then got up and started to get things ready for dinner. “Well, sweetie, your shift is done for today. I’ll see you tomorrow.” She added with a smile.

* * * * *

It was nearly 1500 and time for Katie to go off duty. Dean and Tracy made arrangements to grab a quick early dinner with Katie as soon as she came in, then Tracy went back to her office. Katie had changed out of her maid uniform before arriving at the office. She bounced in and waved to Linna and Tracy before entering the office where Dean had been keeping track of her.

“Nice move interrogating the cook.” Dean said smiling appreciatively.

“She’s a sweet old thing and should be a good source as long as I can keep her from getting suspicious.” Katie said smiling back.

“Yeah, but don’t try to ask too many questions. It may look suspicious. Let’s grab Tracy and have some dinner before the show starts this evening.” Dean suggested.

“Gods, that sounds good. I’m starving.” Katie said quickly then added. “El may be a good cook, but the hired help doesn’t get to taste much of it!”

Dean reset the tapes and then they left the room locking the office door behind them. In the outer office they caught up with Tracy and then left for dinner. They selected a lone table in the corner of Mac’s Bar, placed their order and then went over the day. Katie told them about the laser beams, the secret cameras, and filled them in on the inhabitants. As she related her meeting with Kasimov , her anger returned and it took Dean and Tracy to get her to cool down again. Then she recounted the incidents with Lin.

“So, what’s that all about?” She asked Dean. “Any ideas?”

“Well, we did hear her comment to Ito.” Dean said as she eyed Tracy.

“Yeah, but that was in Japanese.” Katie said looking at Dean then Tracy as they both tried to look elsewhere. “Let me guess, you two understand Japanese.”

“Uhh, yeah.” Tracy muttered as she looked at Dean for help.

“Don’t look at me Tracy, you’re the one spilling the beans about understanding Japanese!” Dean said with a grin.

“So, spit it out!” Katie said as she locked her emerald eyes on Tracy.

“Well… uh… I mean… we didn’t get it all. They were talking real quiet.” Tracy hedged.

“Seems Lin is attracted to you… and Ito thought it might be fun to have a three way.” Dean informed the blonde nonchalantly. “Not that I blame her. You are very attractive.”

“Yeah,” chimed in Tracy hoping to redeem herself. “You can’t blame her for that.”

“Oh, great!” The blonde said now thoroughly embarrassed. “Now I won’t be able to look her in the eye without blushing.”

“Well, if it’s any consolation, your blush is rather sexy.” Dean concluded with a sly grin and a wink at the blonde. This got the intended result as Katie proceeded to blush profusely.

After a round of laughter, Katie turned the conversation back to the security at the lodge. She related that she had not found a security control room, but that she didn’t really have much time to look. Tomorrow, she would try to explore other areas of the house if at all possible. Then the three of them, discussed possible scenarios if they ever had to enter the lodge.

“I don’t know Dean,” Katie interjected. “I sure hope we won’t have to go in there. There seems to be an awful lot of laser beam and security cameras around that place. It’d be a tough one to crack if we can’t locate the control room.”

“I gotta agree with Katie on that one.” Tracy added. “I’m sure there’s even more stuff too that she hasn’t seen yet.”

“Well, hopefully we’ll get what we need tonight and not have to go in there at all.” Dean said as their food arrived.

The rest of dinner was spent in pleasant conversation, and a bit of an update on Linna by Tracy. “I had a talk with her about your office. I told her that there was a lot of very expensive equipment in there that was very delicate given the difficulty of the subject matter. I suggested that she not bother you two when you’re in there because the sound setting’s were so sensitive, yadda yadda.” Tracy said punctuating her speech with her hands. “She’s pretty darn smart and I’m sure she didn’t buy it, but I warned her to not bother you two and she agreed.”

“Good enough for me.” Dean said.

“Me too.” Katie nodded.

“Well, I’m gonna run by my trailer and feed the cats and get Sugar’s medicine down her. Are you going back to the office now?” Katie asked Dean.

“No, I’m going to go by my place first. I need to pick up some things. I’ll meet you back there at 1730 okay?” Tracy nodded in agreement as Dean paid the bill. The three women left Mac’s Bar and walked the three blocks back to the office. When they got there, Tracy asked if they’d mind if she came back in the evening to listen in with them. Both agents agreed, then Tracy went in the office and the two women left to carry out their errands.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Thursday… 1900 hours…

The three women were listening and watching intently as the activity level in the lodge began to increase. They were in TDSC mode since it was too dark for the regular camera and this made it more difficult to place voices with images. As Dean scanned the house, she noted that an area next to the den could not be penetrated and showed up black on the screen.

“Any idea what’s in that space?” Dean inquired of Katie.

“I think that’s the area that Kasimov uses for his quarters.” The blonde said as she studied the screen. “Why can’t we get penetration?”

“There’s a few substances that will block the scan. Most are way too expensive, like titanium shielding, but the most likely culprit is concrete. It has to be at least two feet thick. Dean explained. “Didn’t El mention that there used to be a speakeasy in the lodge?” She inquired of the young agent.

“Yeah. She did, but she didn’t say where.” Katie answered. “You think it’s next to the den?”

“Could be, but my guess would be that the room next to the den is empty but leads to the cellar. See the layout… it doesn’t even look big enough to be a bedroom, more like a false front if you ask me. My instincts say it leads to the speakeasy.

“But what about the penetration? Wouldn’t it be too expensive to line that room with titanium?” Tracy asked as she reviewed the layout of the lodge.

“It wouldn’t cost too much to put titanium shielding in a staircase and on a door.” Dean said as she continued her scanning. “It would make sense for a speakeasy to be in the cellar. More room for guests and there’s probably a hidden walk out for emergency egress. It probably only took a few more inches of concrete all around the room to make it impenetrable. That’s what I would have done.” Dean concluded with a nod.

“Makes sense,” Tracy commented. “That way he’s sure to have a secure area that would house the control room and whatever else he has up his sleeve.” As an afterthought Tracy added, “Did you ever run across Dimitri during the day?”

“As a matter of fact, no.” Replied the blonde. “I thought that was a bit weird to since he was supposed to be doing a security check.”

“He did it all from the control room. New scanning equipment similar to the TDSC to scan the rooms through the fiber optics in the camera lenses.” Dean advised. “Probably has a lens in every room.”

“I wonder if he caught me interrogating El and Ezra?” The blonde considered out loud.

“He very well could have.” Dean turned, and her eyes gave away the concern she felt. “You better stick to just visual examination and not try to pump El and Ezra tomorrow. Just be the hired maid and talk about weather, cleaning, that kind of stuff, nothing more.”

Dean was about to give Katie a hug, but the voices in the lodge suddenly became quiet. Dean noticed that two images spontaneously appeared outside the den. “That about cinches it.” She said to her comrades. “Andre and Natasha just ‘appeared’ on the screen.”

The women watched as the two images entered the dining area which was located across from Kasimov’s room.

“Good evening my friends. I hope everyone had a successful day?” He asked in his heavily accented English.

Murmurs came from the assembled guests on how many deer the hunters had returned with, followed by thanks for planning that event. It obviously had the desired effect, since most comments the women picked up were more gracious about their host.

“Yep, he’s a smooth one all right.” Tracy commented.

“Thank you my friends!” Kasimov said. “Now let us finish our cocktails, then have a good meal, before we get to the reason why you have been asked here.”

The general made his rounds of the group, stopping and chatting with people as he made his way to his table. Sounds of chairs sliding on the floor as guests seated themselves could be heard, as well as utensils and plates making contact. The sounds of dinner being served and consumed, plus laughter and numerous conversations made it almost impossible to distinguish any pertinent information. The two agents and park director just sat and waited for dinner to be over.

They were brought out of their temporary daydreaming by the tinkling of a utensil on a glass. “Okay, here we go.” Dean said as she flipped the recorders on.

“Ladies and gentlemen.” General Kasimov bellowed over the group. “The time you have been waiting for is now upon us.” He said with a broad smile. “Tonight I am going to present you with an opportunity of a lifetime. There has been a major push by each of your governments to crack down on drug trafficking. A global ‘war on drugs’ if you will. Although many of you are still competing successfully, many more of you are not. And soon, all governments will begin to win this war through their cooperative efforts. The tide is turning against you.”

“Tonight, I am prepared to offer you a new drug for your arsenal that is so potent, so dependable, and so easy to produce and distribute that you may not believe it’s potential. Scientists at our national security research division stumbled upon it and discarded it as potentially unstable and destructive. I, however, have rescued this substance and with the help of my personal dedicated staff, have restructured its make-up to make it the most powerful mind control substance this planet has ever or will ever see.”

“Think of it my friends. The ability to control anyone’s mind, their actions or reactions. The possibilities are limitless. YOU could control your governments! YOU could take over all legitimate or illegitimate businesses in your countries! YOU could become the elite in your country! YOU could become the leaders of your countries! YOU have the potential to become the wealthiest people on this planet!” Kasimov paused for effect as mumbled conversation arose among his guests.

“General!” Called out Johnnie Papp. “Why are you offering this to us. Why don’t you take over the planet yourself?” Numerous voices confirmed Johnnie’s question.

“Because, I do not have an army at my command.” The general answered. “We are no longer the super power we once were. We have become complacent and soft!” He said with disgust. “Those of you that agree to my terms will become my army. And yes, I intend to ‘take over the planet’ as you say. But I need your help.” He said with a smile and widened his arms to gather in his flock.

Julio Romero stood and asked, “What’s it gonna cost us senior?”

“Excellent question Mr. Romero!” The general smiled then continued. “My friends, I am not a greedy man. My cost to you would be the production costs of the drug and a pitiful twenty-five percent of your profits.” He said putting all his charm into the offer. “Oh, and I forgot to mention, the cost of production is less than the cost of a pack of American cigarettes, for an amount that would control twenty individuals for one month!” The general beamed.

Lin raised her hand and got the general’s attention. “General, you say this is a mind control drug. Just how is it administered and will you be giving a demonstration of it’s potential.”

“Of course my beautiful lady. You would not marry a man without trying him out first now would you?” He smiled lecherously.

“General, I would not ‘try out’ a man for any reason.” Came the tart response. “Please answer my question.”

A bit taken aback, the general continued. “Administration can be accomplished by almost any means. Inhalation, ingestion, injection, or topically, whatever the situation may call for in expediency.” He smiled at the oriental woman, then continued. “And yes, I will be providing a demonstration.”

“What are your ‘terms’ other than payment?” Came another question from the back of the room.

“Another excellent question. My terms are that I will select your first targets. After that, you are free to select your own. Your cartel’s people will all pledge their alliance to me and will follow my commands without question, and then the matter of payment that we already discussed.”

“What’s to stop you from using the drug on us?” Shouted another cartel member, this time from Canada.

“Nothing, really. I could have used it on all of you already but I would rather have your voluntary cooperation than a contrived one. It’s much cleaner that way you see.” Again, he smiled and poured on the charm. “Any other questions?”

There were a few more questions. Concerns about time frames for target selection, delivery of the drug. And of course the ‘demonstration.’

“Ah yes, the demonstration.” The general became serious as he looked through the group. “There was only one expedient way to prove the effects of this drug.” He continued scanning the group intently. “I had requested your superiors to send three of the most trusted individuals in their organization. Three people beyond reproach who could not be swayed by money or power, but were totally dedicated to the cartel.”

The group a