This podcast may not be suitable for young listeners. Co named Wild Hut,
Operation Blood Eagle, written by Da Roberts and read to you by Cameron Buckner.
Chapter six INLCO fifteen hundred hours, fourteen May Lake Novelope, Argentina.
When Clark had mentioned to Ernesto that they needed formal clothing because they were invited
to dinner at Lalco, the poor concierge nearly fainted. He sprang into action
and started making phone calls in rapid Spanish. Soon an army of tailors and
dressmakers arrived and came to their rooms. While they cleaned up, Clark quietly
sent a text to everyone to find and destroy the bugs hidden in their rooms.
Agreed that if their host was the one listening, then they already knew
they were coming. If it wasn't their host, then they would likely find
out exactly who was listening to them. Clark had a bad feeling that there
were more players on the field than they were aware of. They were measured
and fitted. Clark saw that they had brought a wide array of different pre
cut material. Once they selected the styles that they wanted, the tailors and
the seamstresses set up shop in one of the hotel's meeting rooms. Within hours,
they had been fitted with custom made tuxedos in formal dresses for the ladies.
Valkyrie had selected a style that was elegant and sleek. It was royal
blue with matching stockings and shoes, and with her hair done, she looked
like she belonged on the pages of a magazine, not slogging through the mud
with tim Odin. And when she emerged from the bathroom with her makeup done,
Clark nearly had to pick his jaw up. You look amazing, he
said, smiling. Thank you, she said, blushing. You're not hard
on the eyes either. I've never seen you in a tux before. This
is the first time I've worn one since the wedding, he said, adjusting
his tie. His tie and cuff links matched her dress. If everyone else
is ready, said Clark, we should be getting ready to go. I'd
like to stop by the bar and grab a drink before we go. I'll
be honest, I'm nervous as hell, why, asked Valkyrie. You've seen
combat all over the world, You've been wounded god knows how many times,
and you've been decorated for valor Why would you be afraid of a dinner party.
This is a battlefield, too, said Clark. This battle is fought
with etiquette and subterfuge. This isn't what I'm trained for. And then there's
our host. If he's who we think he is, well then that changes
everything. She walked over to him, nearly tripping on her heels. God,
she said, chuckling. I can't remember the last time I wore heel.
I feel so awkward. Well, you do look amazing, he said.
Almost didn't recognize you. She gave him a quizzical look, frowning slightly.
So I looked terrible the rest of the time, she asked, pouting
lightly. That's not what I meant, he said. You're very pretty,
but I'm very married. I try not to notice. It's tough not to
notice when you walk out of the bathroom looking like that. Well, thank
you, she said, smiling and seemingly mollified. So if you weren't married,
then you would still be under my command, said Clark. It would
not only be against regulations, but it's generally a bad idea. No matter
how much I wanted to, it's just inappropriate. I'm sorry, No,
don't be sorry. She said, that was the answer you should give.
Not only are you married to someone I consider a friend, but you are
also my boss. But it's nice to feel appreciated. Well, let's just
say that you are. Let's leave it at that, he said. Now
let's go to dinner with Hitler and try not to get killed. She laughed
and shook her head. What if it's not him, she asked, Well,
then we still know the guy with the tattoo works for him, he
replied, Even if he turns out not to be the big h then he's
still in charge of a very dangerous group of people. Clark sent a group
text that they were ready to go, and they headed out the door.
Gregil joined them in the hallway with his tuxedo on and his hair braided down
his back. He did not look comfortable in it. She Old Maiden stepped
out from behind him, and Clark did a double tape. She was wearing
a dress nearly identical to Valkyries, only in silver. The other door opened
and Ronestone emerged with Raven on his arm. She was wearing a slinky red
dress that revealed a long length of leg and was strapless. She clung to
Ronestone's arm the way an old world mobster's mole would have. Stone had his
hair slicked back, he looked more like a hit man than anything else.
The dark sunglasses he wore completed the look. How's it look if? He
asked, nodding at Clark, like you're hired to shoot people from me,
replied Clark, Well, technically I am, he replied. True enough,
said Clark. Let's get going. I want to stop by the bar and
grab a drink before we leave. They headed down the hall and took the
elevator down. Clark didn't want to risk one of the girls twisting an ankle
on the stairs. Once they hit the lobby, they stepped out, with
the girls holding onto the arms of the guys. Clark and Valkyrie were in
the center, with Gregel and Shield Mudding on his right. Ruonstone and Raven
were on his left, and before Clark could turn and head for the bar,
they were flagged down by Ernesto. He smiled broadly as he came over
to them. Ah Senor, Clark said, Ernesto, your host has sent
a cart to pick you up. They're waiting out side at the door.
Gracia, Sir Nesto, said Clark, nodding. They headed for the door,
and Clark whispered to Valkyrie. There early he muttered, so much for
that drink. She just smiled as Ernsto opened the door for them, and
stepping outside, his jaw nearly dropped when he saw the pristine nineteen thirty eight
Mercedes Ben seven seventy limousine waiting for them. A man in a chauffeur's uniform
and hat was standing near the front of the car. He bowed slightly when
he saw them, and he clicked his heels together. Ernesto moved ahead of
them and opened the back and held it for them to climb inside. Clark
glanced in but saw no one waiting for them, so he held on to
Valkyrie's hand as he helped her into the car. He entered next, and
the process was repeated. Clark and Valkyrie sat in the forward facing seat and
slid over so that they could be joined by Gray Eagle and Shield Maiden.
Runestone and Raven took the rearward facings, sat the driver, closed the door
and walked around the vehicle toward the front, pausing once to wipe a speck
from the gleaming hood before climbing in behind the wheel and pressing a button.
A panel opened next to Runestone, revealing a crystal decanter filled with a dark
amber liquid in four glasses with compliments, said the driver in a thick German
accent. What is it, asked Clark, Steinheiserbergantia A single malt, said
the driver, aged twenty one years I think I might kiss this guy,
whispered Runestone, his eyes going wide open. Thank you. I'll be certain
to thank our host, said Clark. Very good, sir, said the
driver, starting the engine. Clark noted the engine ran like a Swiss watch,
idling smoothly. The sound proofing of the vehicle was perfect and you could
only barely hear it running. This car's amazing, said Valkyrie. What is
this nineteen forty nineteen thirty eight, corrected the driver. It's purchased from a
private collector who added in a museum in Belgium. This car was meant to
be driven, not watched from behind a rope. I agree, said Clark.
It's beautiful. The driver smiled, clearly proud of the vehicle. Thank
you, sir, he said, putting the car and gear and pulling away
from the entrance of the hotel. Runestone handed out the glasses and picked up
the decanter, putting a generous measure in each of their glasses. Easy on
that, said Clark. We might want some for the return trip. Drink
as much as you like, said the driver. I shall make certain it
is replenished for you. Well, thank you, said Clark. What may
I call you, sir? The driver seemed genuinely surprised by the question.
You may call me youa kim, sir, he said, with a nod
of appreciation. Thank you, youoa kim, said Clark. They all held
up their glasses to momentous occasions and absent friends, said Clark, absent friends.
They all echoed and clinked their glasses. Clark took a sip and his
eyes almost rolled back in his head. The twenty one year old whiskey.
It went from sweet to smokey to spicy, and then it ended with a
gentle spice. My god, he whispered, this is amazing. Gregel nodded
appreciatively, and Runstone just grinned. The girls all seemed to enjoy the flavor,
but said nothing. Clark took another sip and settled back against the seat.
Valkyrie leaned beneath his arm and slid up against him. As they rode,
Clark could see Yoa Kim was being cautious as he drove slowly, but
was paying attention to everything they did. Valkyrie was right to keep up the
pretense. When she settled against him, he could smell the fragrance of her
hair and perfume she had pulled out all the stops. He made a mental
note to pick up a couple of bottles of the perfume to take home to
Amanda. Maybe the shampoo as well. You smell them. Amazing, he
whispered. Thank you, she replied, grinning up at him. Nice of
you to notice. As they turned onto the highway leading to Enalko, they
were driving along with the lake to the west. The sun was beginning to
go down behind the andes, turning the mountains to golden flames, with the
lake resembling molten gold. The view was breathtaking. Oh my god, said
Valkyrie. Look at that sunset. I'm telling you, said Runestowe, this
place is almost paradise. You are passing what is locally called mirrordor Innalko,
said Jokim, the Inaliko viewpoint. It is one of the most stunning places
on the entire lake to watch the sunset well before we leave, said valkyrie.
I want to come here and take pictures. Clark grinned and nodded in
agreement. Leaning up and kissing Clark on the neck just below the ear,
Valkyrie whispered quietly enough that no one else could hear her. I'd like to
come back here, she whispered, once this problem is solved. I've never
seen a place like this. Clark nodded and tried to ignore the cold chill
he felt when her lips brushed his neck and her breath hid his skin.
You're a married man, he kept repeating inside his head. Moments later,
the sun and lake vanished. As they entered the thick trees. The road
was cast in darkness since the tall pines blocked out almost all the remaining sunlight.
Yo Kim flipped the lights on to bright and it illuminated the road for
a good distance ahead, and Clark caught a glimpse of eyes shine in the
trees to their right, the opposite side of the road from analco The eyes
were easily ten feet off the ground, and he watched it blink and stepped
back into the trees, far enough that the light wouldn't catch it. Gregel's
head snapped up and he began looking in that direction, and Clark watched him
wrinkling his nose as he tried to get a scent. There was a look
of frustration on his face. Clark knew there had to be too many conflicting
sens to catch anything from the outside. Clark looked at him and cocked his
head to the side. Gregel locked eyes with him and nodded fractionally. Clark's
stomach nodded as he realized what that meant. Gregel had just sensed the presence
of a creature much like himself. A large predator was in the deep dark
woods, and Gregel continued to watch the side of the road, and from
where he was gazing, Clark could surmise that whatever was out there, it
was keeping pace with the car. If Gregel senses it, then it was
likely the creature that had sensed him as well. Fuck, he whispered mentally.
He chastised himself for not bringing a firearm. He'd expressly forbidden everyone from
carrying weapons. Their host security detail would just take them, un likely not
return them. Is something wrong, asked Joakim. No, said Clark,
I just thought I saw something in the woods. Ah, you likely did,
said Yoakum. There are dangerous predators in these woods. It is best
not to be wandering into the woods unless you are prepared to defend yourself.
While we are on the property. Please stay close to the manhouse. We
wish to ensure your safety. Thank you, said Clark. I'll keep that
in mind. Slowing down, Yoakum turned left into the private driveway. To
his surprise, they were waved through without being stopped. Clark got a good
look at the defenses and they were extensive. Under a tarp was what had
to be a crew served a machine gun. The guard shack had a rack
of weapons in one corner, some of them with grenade launchers. Now it
was getting dark and the security team was wearing plate carriers and helmets with envgs.
Clark noticed that their weapons were not the same as they had been during
the day, and they were carrying much heavier weapons. He recognized a manufacturer
as Heckler and Coke, and the lowers looked to be HK four seventeens,
but the uppers had a barrel far too thick to be a seven point sixty
two millimeter round. They looked comparable to the rifles carried by tiam Odin,
and that meant they had to at least be a four point fifty eight so
calm or bigger. Glancing at the others, he was met with slight knots.
They had all noticed the weapons and gear. Once they passed the gate,
they could see the guard tower that was well camouflaged. They had missed
it from the road. There were two guards in it with night vision gear
and heavy machine guns. Clark didn't know what they were preparing for, but
it had to be something big. And while the big boar rifles would be
excellent for disabling vehicles, they would be overkilled on a normal soldier or police
officer. You could easily penetrate body armor with a much smaller caliber and have
a larger magazine capacity. That didn't seemed to be concerned with body armor.
They were loaded to inflict heavy damage. The question was on what, And
then he thought of the eye shine in the woods, and whatever that was,
they were aware of it and were prepared to defend themselves. The road
to the manor house was overgrown with trees and completely invisible from the air.
Clark remembered when they flew over in the plane, he hadn't seen this road.
They passed roving teams that were patrolling in full battle kit with dogs that
had to be either Borable or some other breed of mastiff. They were massive
animals with completely black, short furred coats. Their ears had been bobbed and
the tails removed. They had to weigh close to two hundred and fifty pounds
or more. They were big enough that the handlers were all close to six
feet eight inches or bigger with heavy muscle, and the dogs were tethered with
what looked to be a logging chain. Look at those goddamn dolls, folks,
said Runestone. Those are unique to this location, said Yo Kim.
They were bred originally from African Brobil and English massive bloodlines, but they were
bred for their strength and loyalty to their handlers. They are magnificent animals,
said Gregel. I have a pair of Borbles back home, said Clark.
They're amazing dogs, smart and loyal. Why do you need so much security
here, asked Valkyrie. I'm afraid that our lead has many enemies, answered
Jokim. Also, there are dangerous animals in these woods. I can't imagine
anything dangerous enough to need this much security, said Braven. It's like a
military base. Jokim didn't comment. They all saw the lights ahead as they
rounded the bend in the road, revealing the estate in all its glory.
Several buildings were all built in the Bavarian style that seemed to flank the large
manor house that was in alco. The entire estate had a Bavarian log cabin
feel that seemed to make the place feel like a hunting retreat in the Alps,
not something you would normally find in the andes of South America. There
were several stylish cars parked beneath a large car port, and more parked inside
the long garage. Many of them were museum pieces, like the one they
were riding in. Several vehicles that were parked nearby looked like humvies. Would
you look at all these old cars, said Runestone. Check out the armored
vehicles, said Clark. If I'm not mistaken, those are German ampvs.
Ja Kim said nothing. He pulled beneath the covered porch and stopped directly in
front of the set of double doors. A man dressed in a coat and
tails, opened their door and stood by while they exited. The men all
exited, first holding the hand of their ladies, helping them out, and
then taking them on their arms. If you would follow me, said the
dorman, closing the car door and turning toward the house. Jokim drove off
without looking back. Wow, whispered Valkyrie. This is a lot to take
in at once. Clark and Gregel were glancing in every direction, taking in
the details and identifying security features. Some cameras were capable of infrared and low
light. They saw motion detectors as well as thermal sensors. The security here
was very tight. The dormen opened the door for them and they headed inside,
and Alco lived up to its name. The house was elaborately furnished while
keeping the hunting retreat feel. Inside. There were wood panels on the walls
with an enormous fireplace that was the centerpiece. There were paintings on the walls
that appeared to be from many of the great masters. A large dining area
was already set with enough seating for at least twenty people. They were ushered
into the living area, where large comfortable chairs were placed around the fire.
There were enough empty seats for all of them, but many were occupied with
older men and women wearing formal attire. Their host stood as they approached,
and Clark instantly recognized him as the man from the balcony that he'd seen from
the plane. He also recognized him from photos taken during World War II.
There was no doubt in his mind this was Adolf Hitler. The man extended
his hand with a smile. Wilcomen, he said, shaking each of the
men's hands in turn. Thank you, said Clark. We appreciate your kind
offer of hospitality. It is I who should thank you, said the man.
It is not often that our little village gets visited by someone flying such
an amazing aircraft. I was astounded when I saw it fly over. Thank
you for joining us. Ah, where are my manners? Permit me to
introduce myself. I am Augustus Hindemann. Welcome to my home. Clark did
his best not to react when he realized that his initials were a. H.
You have a beautiful home, sir, said Clark. Allow me to
introduce myself and my party. I'm Daniel Clark, and this is my lovely
new bride, Miranda. The gentleman is William gray Eagle and his wife Samantha.
And this is Santana Alvarez and his wife Amanda. They were in our
wedding party, so we invited them along. It's a honeymoon for Miranda and
me and the second honeymoon for them. I got a great deal on the
package. Clark was pleased with himself for managing to use their names instead of
their code names. Henderman shook their hands and in turn smiled broadly. Please,
he said, gesturing expansively, join us by the fire and tell us
about yourselves. They were guided to large, overstuffed leather chairs that were gathered
in the seating area beside the fire. Henderman began introducing the men and women
that were seated. Didn't catch their names. He was already running through his
mental records. He was a student of history, and he knew he'd seen
the face of every man in this room. It was now confirmed Henryman was
Hitler without the mustache. The others were Erwin Rommel, Wilhelm Kanaris, Martin
Borman, and Carl Dornetz. He assumed the women were either their original wives
or ones they had married after the war. Although all of them had been
reported dead long ago, they were very much alive. It occurred to Clark
that if the Nazis had known they were losing the war, it would have
been easy to concoct a believable cover story for the alleged execution of key officers.
It would be much easier to smuggle them out of the country if the
Allies already thought they were dead. Clark glanced over at Gregel, who nodded
imperceptibly. Clark knew that Gregel was a student of history, especially military history.
If he agreed with him, then there had to be more than enough
to contact all Father and tell them what they had discovered. Clark fought internally
to keep his composure, knowing what they had just walked into. They were
in the South American equivalent of the Burghoff. If they knew the real purpose
of their presence in Argentina, then it was highly likely they wouldn't leave this
place alive. They had just walked into the lions Den unarmed. They made
small talk with the group, but Clark's mind wasn't really on it. He
was running angles, trying to find an escape route that might allow them to
survive. They couldn't run for the lake. The water temperature would kill all
of them other than Gray Eagle in minutes. The woods were full of patrols
with monster dogs, and then there was whatever the hell had been watching them
arrive. Clark had find no way that wouldn't end in their deaths, either
at the hands of the Elements or by the highly trained security teams. What
do you say, hey, Clark, said Henderman Hitler. Excuse me,
said Clark. I'm afraid I didn't hear you. I asked if you would
step out onto the deck with me with a drink and discuss that airplane of
yours. Oh, of course, said Clark, playing for time. Henderman
slash Hitler nodded at one of the attending servants and they were both brought a
crystal glass containing a dark amber liquid. Accepting the drink, Clark nodded at
the others and followed Henderman out onto the deck. The night air was chilly,
but Clark felt himself sweating beneath his tuxedo. All he could think about
was who was standing beside him and if he could kill him before being taken
out by security. Taking a sip of the drink. Clark was taken aback
by how good it was. He smiled despite himself and took another sip.
It is quite good, joh, said Hendryman. Very good, said Clark.
It is my favorite, brandy, said Henderman. Now, shall we
get down to the business at hand? Sure, said Clark, fully expecting
to be seized by the guards and restrained it any moment. Now, did
you find that amazing aircraft? Asked Henderman excitedly. Clark was astounded. They
had no idea who he was. Their cover was intact. Then, who
the hell had planted bugs in their rooms? His thoughts turned to the group
of Argentine intelligence that had intercepted them at the airport. There were many factors
at work, and he was having trouble keeping up with everyone. I want
it in a poker game in Borneo, said Clark, sticking to the story.
It was in pretty rough shape then, but I had at shipt home
and restored it. You did that beautiful job, said Henderman. I would
consider offering five hundred thousand US dollars just from my brief observation, that is,
assuming the interior is in as good as shape as the exterior. It's
in great shape, said Clark, But I don't want to sell her.
She's a one of a kind fine. I doubt I'd ever find another off
that, I am certain, said Henderman. I will double my offer to
one million. Do not say yes or no. Consider it for a while.
Let us return to the others and prepare for dinner. This chief and
kitchen staff should be ready soon. All right, said Clark. They headed
back inside and closed the French doors behind them, and when they entered the
room, Clark noticed the piano in the corner that he hadn't paid attention to
before. Is that a Bossendorf for grand piano? Asked Clark. You have
an excellent eye, said Henderman. Do you play? I haven't in a
long time, said Clark, But those are amazing pieces of craftsmanship. I've
never actually seen one before. The only ones I've seen were in books.
Motioning for the others to come over, Henderman guided Clark toward the piano.
Please, everyone, said Henderman, join us head. Clark is going to
play for us. Everyone gathered around and Clark reluctantly took his seat behind the
keys. He opened the cover reverently and slowly and taking in the beauty of
the piano. Valkyrie locked eyes with him and looked surprised. If Clark couldn't
play, Henderman would know something was up with them. Clark played with the
pedals for a moment before placing his hands at the keyboard. They all held
their breath in anticipation, unsure of what was about to happen. As he
slowly began to play. After the first few beautiful notes, Henderman clasped his
hands together with a look of pure joy on his face. He'd recognized the
piece With growing confidence and volume, Clark launched into Richard Wagner's Prelude and Leavistad
from than Unda Essolde. He was playing with his eyes closed for memory,
and Valkyrie looked shocked as he continued to play. The other guest of Henderman
stared open mouthed as he played, and they stood there, transfixed, as
if the music had transported them all to a distant place. And when he
finished, there was an applause from the crowd, and even Valkyrie applauded.
Clark smiled at the crowd. Wagner was my grandfather's favorite, he said,
I learned to play the piano from him. You play it like a German,
said Henderman, smiling. Excellent. Clark smiled and started to get up.
Play something else, said Henderman. Please, it has been far too
long since we've had a wonderful pianist play for us. Play something, so
we met dance. Well, what would you like to hear, asked Clark.
Anything you like, said Henderman. It is just good to hear the
borsind off of played by someone who knows how. Clark began playing softly in
a minor key, and the Germans began pairing up to dance to the music.
Hendrman held out his hand to Valkyrie, and since she had no one
else to dance with and neither did he, she accepted. Clark played the
tune hauntingly slow, and she was sure that she knew it. It was
tantalizingly close, but she just couldn't place it. When he finished playing,
they all stopped and applauded again, and Clark stood up smiling. Dina Is
served announced the butler. Oh your timingness perfect, said Henderman, and led
them all into the dining room. They were shown to their seating by the
staff and Clark and Valkyrie were placed immediately to Henderman's left at the head of
the table, but directly across from him was Irwin Rommel. Clark met his
gaze and nodded respectfully, and Rommel studied him for a moment before giving him
a slight nod in the stiff Prussian style. Lark wanted to blurt out that
he knew who they all were, just so he could ask questions he was
dying to know how they were all here and how they were all even alive.
However, he knew doing so would likely be the death sentence for them
all. What was that song you were playing, whispered Valkyrie, the second
one striving me crazy. I know, I know that song, Clark smiled
as he leaned closer to her ear. It's Zombie by the Cranberries, he
whispered. Oh my god, she replied, grinning the irony of dancing to
that song. Hush, he whispered, let's not upset our hosts. As
the servants were bringing out the first course, a fragrant soup was served,
and Henderman stood and clinked his glass in Almah of our guest marriage. He
said, I have asked the staff to prepare a traditional soup for our first
course. That drew around a polite applause, and people raised their glasses to
Clark and Valkyrie. When everyone had calmed down, the servants continued to place
the bowls in front of everyone. So I am given to understand that you
are a pilot, said Rommel, nodding at Clark. And you flew here
in a vintage World War Two German airplane. Yes, said Clark. It's
a fully restored Catalina PB y. Well, everything's restored except for the guns.
That is a remarkable plane, said Rommel. I once saw one.
I believe it was in Tunisia. Clark caught himself. He almost asked if
that was in nineteen forty two, but he thought better of it. Valkyrie
must have sensed it because she squeezed his leg. I love old planes,
said Clark. I've always wanted to fly a P fifty one Mustang, but
I doubt I'll ever get the chance here. Hinderman has a collection of vintage
aircraft from that era, said Rommel. I believe he has a P fifty
one, but his collection consists of mostly German air aircraft. I do believe
he also has a few meshah Schmidt be if one O nines. He's quite
the pilot himself, Donka, said Henderman. I have logged hundreds of hours
in the one O nine. I have also won eighty monk dogfights against other
pilots. That's an impressive accomplishment, said Clark. Uk Jaw said Rammel.
But I was never an aircraft man myself. I prefer ground vehicles specifically.
I've always had a love for tanks, really, said Clark. My grandfather
was a tanker. He was with Patent in the US Second Corps. Valkyrie
squeezed his leg hard enough that he glanced at her, and Clark watched a
slight tick at the corner of Rommel's mouth before he spoke. So was he
on the sherman of the Stuart tank, asked Rammel. He started as a
gunner on a sherman, said Clark, studying Rammel's eyes. After North Africa
he was made a tank command. When they headed into Sicily, there was
a gleam there, but Clark didn't sense animosity. If anything, it looked
more like nostalgia. It occurred to him that Rommel either missed it or looked
forward to doing it again. The soup is delicious, said Valkyrie, changing
the subject Donka, said Henderman. It is my mother's recipe from Austria.
There were five more courses served, each more elaborate than the last. The
dinner's main course was icepin and ended with a dessert of Dunawild cake. Cake
is amazing, said Valkyrie, tasting the first bite. It is one of
my favorites, said Henderman. I enjoyed very much. Once the dishes were
cleared, Clark looked at Henderman and nodded, thank you. He said,
you went all out on this dinner to celebrate our wedding deed. Nothing of
it, said Henderman. Any excuse to dine well is fine with me,
but it was not. I not completely in your honor. I had other
intentions as well. My guests are here on other business. I couldnot resist
inviting you for your wedding and in honor of such an amazing aircraft. Well
regardless, said Clark, Thank you, it was certainly a night I will
never forget. The side door opened and Clark saw Haints walk in with three
other men, all dressed identically. They were wearing black military style fatigue pants
and black t shirts under plate carriers. They were carrying a pistol on their
hip, with additional magazines and pouches, and Clark tensed, expecting them to
bring their weapons up and take them all into custody. Well, he thought,
at least they fed us. First Chapter seven, Welcoming Party, twenty
one to thirty hours fourteen May and alco Hine scanned the room for threats before
coming to attention to Henderman's right. Around the guard's necks hung those large bore
HK rifles that Clark had seen the gate guards carrying. Clark noticed deep gougers
in Heinz's chest plate. There were four marks exactly parallel to each other,
and it was easy to recognize them as claw marks. Heinz noticed. Clark
nodded. My apologies for the interruption, said Heinz. Henderman looked annoyed,
and Clark saw anger in his eyes, but he controlled it enough that could
only barely be heard in his tone. What is it, Commander, Heinz
snapped Henderman. The room seemed to freeze. Henderman went slightly, but made
no other outward sign. It had just been confirmed by them Henderman had used
a military rank instead of a civilian title. Clark pretended not to notice,
but Heinz knew he had. He locked eyes with Clark and smiled almost imperceptibly.
We had an issue at the main gate, said Hines. What happened?
Some of the locals charged the gate, said Hines. They were successful.
At least four of them are inside the perimeter. We sustain casualties.
Becker and Faulkner will be in the hospital for a few days with some new
scars, but their injuries are not life threatening. Are there any fatalities?
Nine mind here, said Heinz. However, they have managed to knock out
the power to the fences, and the resulting power surge has knocked our entire
camera system offline. We are working on the systems and hope to have them
back to full capacity within the hour. Are you hurt, said Henderman.
Nine mind hen, said Hines. We need to get you to a safe
location. The main house is not safe until we have put down the assault.
All of you are in danger. We should get to the bunker,
said Henderman, turning back to his guests. I apologize for the inconvenience,
but the situation requires that we adjourn to the secure area of the house.
How can I help? Clark hurt himself, ask He wasn't sure why it
came out. It popped out as if on its own. He expected to
get dirty looks from the others, but they all seemed to agree with him.
It was in their nature to help, even if it meant saving the
assembled group. Clark was content keeping them alive so they could face justice.
The world needed to know the truth. Do any of you have combat tanning,
asked heins We all do, said Clark. We all met in the
military with your permission, mind, hen Heines said to Henderman, if you
help with this situation, said Henderman, I shall see to it that you
were rewarded handsomely. We'll need to change clothes, said Clark. I can
take care of that, said Hines. Let's get them to the bunker and
I'll get you some gear. Guiding the group to the massive stone fireplace,
Henderman pressed the specific rock and opened a hidden passage with a staircase leading down.
Once they were all ushered in, the door was sealed behind them,
and Heinz turned to Clark. You don't have to do this, he said.
I certainly won't refuse your help, but this isn't your fight. We're
wasting time, said Clark with a nod. Hines studied him for a moment
and then nodded respectfully. Follow me, he said, leading them off toward
the west end of the house. Once there, they all climbed into one
of the armored vehicles, and Hinz drove them to a large building deeper in
the complex. They hadn't seen it on their drive in. It looked like
a combination of barracks and armory. Stopping the vehicle right beside the entrance,
they all ran inside. Hines led them to a large room that looked like
a supply closet. Tend me your sizes, he said. As they called
them out. He began throwing boots and cloths at them, and when he
had them all supplied, he pointed across the hall. There are locker rooms
over dere, he said, Fraeulein's on the left. As soon as you
address come to the armory. I'll have weapons and armor for you. They
hurried across the hall and began changing quickly. Clark emerged first and ducked into
the armory. Hines was there, already pulling guns from the racks. Clark
began buckling on the belt and plate carrier that were placed on the counter.
What weapon do you prefer, asked Hines. I'll take one of those h
K rifles your men are carrying, said Clark. Hines pulled one from the
rack and tossed it to him, and then he grabbed the satchel and tossed
it over as well. That contains AMMO and magazines for the rifle and a
pistol, said Hines. The pistol is a heavily modified h K Mark twenty
three, so com it's been rechambered to take the fifty AE round. The
rifle is chambered in the fifty Beowulf. Holy mother of crap, said Clark,
looking at the pistol. How's it kick like you Americans say, said
Heinz, like a fucking mule. Clark was loading his weapons when Valkyrie arrived.
Weapon preference, asked heins sniper, she replied. Heinz looked quizzically at
Clark, who nodded solemnly. Heines nodded respectfully at Valkyrie and handed her a
modified HKPSG one. It's rechambered in four or five eight Winchester magnum. He
said, it's a bit heavier than the standed PSG one. I'll manage,
said Valkyrie, swinging the rifle up to her shoulder and checking the optic.
I might need a shot or two to get the feel of the scope.
Hines looked to Clark. I can certainly see why you married her. Oh
you have no idea, said Clark. You know I'm standing right here,
she said, winking at Clark. The others arrived and began quickly getting outfitted.
Weapons were chosen and loaded, and once they were dying, Heinz gave
them all a radio in an earpiece. These are encrypted, said Hines.
Stick to channel seven. The others will not hear you if you change.
That would be most unpleasant if you needed help. What exactly are we facing,
asked Clark. You might find this unbelievable, or try us, said
Valkyrie. We refer to them as locals, said Hines. We originally thought
there were werewolves when our security teams started getting attacked, and at first we
were less heavily armed, and there were many casualties. We lost a lot
of good men and women before we got the heavier weapons. Now we can
mostly keep them at bay. So what are they, asked Clark. Some
sort of weird cat creature, said Hines. There is a type which resemble
humanoid jaguars, both spotted and black. They are usually around two meters tall.
Others seem to be more of a saber tooth tiger type the three meter
range. Damn, said Clark. That's big forget chest shots, said Hines.
They have thick bones, hard to penetrate without a direct hit. Try
for the head, neck, in the upper arms and thighs anywhere they are
big arteries. Well, that makes sense, said Clark, glancing at Valkyrie.
They had all heard the same advice before, only from Clark. Hines
turned to the group. I'll get your shooter to a tower and she can
use a s niper perch, and the rest of us will work as a
patrol team. I'm sorry, but you will have to take your orders from
me. None of you know this place as I do. Of course,
said Clark. You're a full commander. You outrank all of us anyway.
Heines nodded at him, but made a strange face, and Clark realized that
might have been too much. Fortunately, he didn't press the issue. Let's
move, he said, heading for the door. Hustling out the door,
they could hear gunfire in the distance. It seemed to be coming from the
direction of the main gate. They could hear rapid German on the radio,
and Clark understood a lot of it, but part of it had to be
in code. He could only guess. Sounds like the gate is under attack,
said Clark. Joh said Hines, however, that is not our problem.
We are signed to defend the manor house. Other teams are moving to
reinforce the gate. Diving into the armored transport, Hines fired up the engine
and raced off back toward the main part of the compound. As they rounded
a corner, they saw a large tower with stairs leading up to the top.
This is your stop, said Hines. There shouldn't be anyone up there
cover in the direction of the main building at the center of the compound.
Valcary nodded and started to get out of the vehicle. Clark nodded at Raven.
Go with her. He said, you can be her spotter and help
defend the tower if the creatures come for you. And if they do,
get on the radio and We'll get to you as quickly as we can and
hold that tower until we get to you. Yes, sir, said Raven,
grabbing her gear and baling out with Valkyrie. Clark watched them climb the
stairs and disappear into the tower before Hines could drive away. Clark saw them
drop the door into place and secure it. The tower appeared to be made
of strong enough material that the creatures shouldn't be able to get inside easily.
Once the tower was here, heinz hit the gas and they sped off toward
the main compound, sliding to a stop near the car port. They all
bailed out and brought all their weapons up. Clark started to bark orders,
but caught himself. Hines nodded fractionally and then glanced at the others. All
interest is to demain house should be secure, said Hines. I will take
these tool with me. He gestured at Runestone and shield Maiden. You two
go around the house and meet us on the other side, Hines instructed,
gesturing at Clark. Gregel. If you find an entrance that is not secure,
alert us. We will have to sweep the entire house, and do
not forget to check the upstairs windows. And the balconies. Gregel nodded,
watch your backs, cautioned Hines, these creatures are dangerous and highly intelligent.
Now let's move. Clark and Gregel headed off around the west side of the
house, checking windows and doors. As they moved, one would check the
window while the other watched their backs, and then they would leap frog to
the next window, always moving and always scanning their surroundings. As they rounded
the corner, they saw movement ahead. It was a flitting specter among the
shadows. Whatever it was, it moved fast, and it was moving toward
the back of the house. What was that, whispered Clark. Smells like
a large cat, replied Gregel. Be careful. Well, that's the plan,
Clark said, crouching lower as he approached the edge of the building.
Do you want me to shift forms and take them on directly, asked Gregel.
No, that's only as an absolute lash resort, said Clark. That's
an ace in the hole. I don't want them to know about yet.
If Heinz can turn into another form, whispered Gregel, I should have been
able to smell her, since it I could not, then maybe there's more
going on here than we were led to believe, replied Clark, lowering himself
down almost to the ground to peer around the corner of the house. Just
as he was about to lean out around the corner, Gregel grabbed his collar
and pulled him back. Using hand signals, he indicated to Clark that it
was just around the corner, waiting for him to present a target. Thank
you, said Clark. Gregel prepared himself, summoning some of the Great Wolf's
great strength and speed. In a move that was nearly too fast to track,
Gregel swung out into the open with his weapon already up. Taken aback
by the unexpected speed, he caught the creatures unprepared before it could move,
He shot it twice, once in each knee, and it dropped to the
ground, yewling in pain. Clark stepped out with his weapon up, leveling
it at the creature's head, and the beast locked his gaze on him,
revealing dark green eyes with strange catlike pupils. It was massive, with enormous
ten inch teeth that protruded from the top of its mouth, just like a
smiloton. If it had been standing, it would have been nearly as tall
as graygel In Wolf form. It had to be close to ten feet tall.
Clark kept his weapon train right on the beast's forehead, not wavering or
not backing away. The creature looked at him with intelligence in its eyes,
and in a deep, rumbling growl. The beast let out the sound that
seemed out of place for the structure of its mouth. Because of the massive
teeth, it couldn't manipulate its mouth like a human. However, Clark was
certain that he heard a wordy grdia it rumbled. Gregel looked at Clark quizzically.
Misster at Cordia, repeated Clark. He's asking for mercy in Spanish.
Why are you here, asked Gregel. The creature looked confused but said nothing.
I don't think he speaks English, said Clark. They could see the
wounds were nearly healed already, and the creature would be able to stand soon.
Despite that, he refused to move with the weapon trained squarely between his
eyes. The creature understood that as fast as it might be, the bullet
would likely be faster. What should we do, asked Gregel. I'm not
sure, said Clark, but I'm not in favor of executing him. I
want to know why he's here. If Heinz sees him, said Gregel,
he will kill him. Trust me on this, said Clark. Gregel nodded.
Repeat them, an't they, said Clark. The beast looked back and
forth between them, unsure of what to do. Lower your weap, said
Clark reluctantly. Gregel lowered his rifle while Clark lowered his What did you just
say to him, asked Gregel. I told him to run away, quickly
replied Clark, still watching the creature for any sign of an attack. There
was a moment of indecision as the creature's eyes started back and forth, and
then in an instant it raced for the trees, and seconds later it was
gone. I hope that doesn't bite me in the ass, said Clark.
Let's get moving, said Gregel. They continued along the back of the house
and met up with the others near the patio where Clark had the drink with
Henderman. And even though it had only been an hour ago, it felt
like much longer. I heard your shots, said Hinz, checking the patio
doors and finding them secure. We saw one of the creatures, said Clark.
Gregel got off a couple of shots and I think we hit it.
We saw it drop and then get up and race off into the night.
We found a little blood near the west wall. Are damn hard to kill,
said Heines. It seems like our weapons will slow them down, but
killing them is much more difficult it usually it takes severe blood loss and more
than one headshot. If they're only wounded, they seem to recover rapidly.
All right, I'll keep that in mind, said Clark. So the house
is secure, what's next? Heines held up his hand and began speaking into
his radio. The conversation was not difficult to follow, even though he was
speaking German. When he was finished, he turned back to the others.
Secure systems are back online, said Heinz. Throm a camera show the creatures
retreating through a section of the perimeter fence that they damaged after the power went
out. I believe we are safe for the moment. Once we're certain they're
all gone, we will send out repair crews with security detail to fix the
fencing. Well, what's the plan now, asked Clark. We sweep the
area, said Heines. Just to be sure. Only a fool would trust
technology when lives are underline. Clark nodded in agreement. I'll take my group
and search the outlying buildings, said Heinz to Clark. You take Gray Eagle
and follows the edge of the water until you hit the trail. Then't follow
it back to the main building. Listen very carefully, do not go within
six feet at the water's edge. This is very important. Stay away from
the water. And under no circumstances are you to go into the water.
If one of the creatures goes in, do not follow it. Do you
understand, Stay clear of the water, said Clark. Got it. Why
it's a long story, said Hines. For your safety, listen to my
warnings. Perhaps when this is over, I can explain in more detail.
Okay, it sounds good. Okay, said Hines. We were rendezvous by
the AMPV copy that said Clark, turning and heading toward the light. Gregel
fell into step beside him, and they had their weapons at low ready as
they moved down the open yard toward the dark water. Why would he warn
us about the lake, asked Gregel. If they control the shark creatures,
said Clark, then you would think there would be no reason to worry.
Well, maybe they don't control them, said Gregel, keeping his voice slow.
I was sure Heines was one of them, said Clark. He has
the same tattoo. Something isn't right, said Gregel. There's more going on
here than we know, that's for certain, said Clark. We're just beginning
to scratch the surface of this whole thing. Gregel nodded in agreement, but
said nothing. They were getting close to the edge of the water by now,
and they were on height and alert. Clark could see that the water
was shallow for only a few feet from the edge, and the bottom dropped
off quickly, making the water seem as black as a moonless night. As
beautiful as this lake is, said Clark, I have to keep her minding
myself. It's not much warmer than the water that killed most of the passengers
in the Titanic. As dangerous as it is beautiful, replied Gregel. I'm
finding that this place is less and less inviting. The views are amazing,
though, said Clark, but it seems like there's a lot to worry about.
I'm definitely taking it off my vacation list. Something ripped the surface of
the water just a few yards off shore. Clark didn't get a good look
at it. But it was too big to be a fish. Clark watched
the ripples moving outward from the spot in the near perfect circle. Whatever it
was it had crested the surface and then sank back down in the same spot.
Not typical fish behavior. Stay clear of the water, said Clark,
nodding. That's a good idea, agreed Gregel. Do you sense anything,
asked Clark. Another predator, said Gregel, his face going dark. But
it's like nothing I've ever encountered. This thing is unnatural. It fits the
theory that they were genetically engineered, said Clark. They began moving along the
shore of the lake, careful to stay far away from the water. Fortunately,
there was a rocky beach that ran along the shore, allowing them to
stay ten feet away from the water without being in the trees. Clark was
scanning the water while Gregel watched the trees. As they approached a ben in
the shore, Gregel froze and put his hand on Clark's shoulder. What Clark
started to say, but was silenced by a way from Gregel. Clark froze
in mid word and began slowly breathing. Everything around them had gone dead silent,
and Clark felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.
Something was very wrong. Goosebumps began prickling along his arms and shouldering his rifle,
he brought it into position and quietly clicked off the safety. Gregel leaned
his head back and began sniffing the air, and Clark could see he was
fighting to maintain the balance between using the senses of the great Wolf and unleashing
it entirely. It was taking all of his concentration to hold the transformation at
bay, and Gregel was so focused on his sense of smell he almost missed
the rustling in the trees. Clark noticed it first and brought a rifle around
as six creatures that looked like bipedal black panthers leaped from the trees. All
of them appeared to be in the eight to nine foot tall range. One
was leaping directly at Gregel and the others were surrounding them. Clark opened fire,
putting a three round burst of the massive fifty beowolf rounds into the chest
of the beast that was heading for Gregel. It screamed in pain as the
massive rounds punched holes the size of quarters into its flesh. The force of
the rounds knocked off its trajectory, causing it to miss Gregel completely. It
hit the ground and tried to roll onto its feet, but it came to
a stop in the world water up to its knees, and before it could
react further, a shape erupted from the water behind it, part shark and
part man, easily standing nine feet tall. Clark saw the dorsal fin and
gill slits, but the face looked almost human. The skin was a model
dark gray on top and almost dark white on the bottom, and hands were
webved and ended with black talons that sunk into the cat creature's shoulders. And
then the mouth opened impossibly wide, revealing row upon row of razure sharp teeth
biting deeply into the back of the creature's neck. The sharp thing launched itself
backward. Clark saw the look of pure panic in the cat creature's eyes as
it reached helplessly toward the others, and in an instant there was a massive
splash as the creature was dragged into the dark depths of Igo Nauelapi, then
to white for several moments, and Clark could see the shapes of more than
one of the shark men attacking the cat creature, and then the water stopped
rolling in the surface was left with only ripples where the creature had stood.
They all stood there and stunned, silent, staring at the water with a
mixture of shock and fear. Even the cat creature stared at the spot with
mouths gape and ears laid back. After the span of several heartbeats, the
shock wore off, and they turned back to Gregel and Clark. Growling low
in their throats. They made certain to stay away from the edge of the
water. As they began to crouch for an attack. Gregel snapped fired and
shot the nearest creature in the forehead with a single shot from a shrifle.
What would ordinarily have been a fatal shot only sent blood and fur flying.
As the creature flipped over backward. They could see the one already beginning to
heal as it hit the ground. Clark reacted fast enough to put a three
round bird into the throat and upper chest of another creature. This one went
down, gurgling in its own blood, but they could see the wounds were
going to heal. The rounds they were using could put the creatures down,
but just couldn't make them stay there. We've got to move, shouted Clark.
We can't put them down. One of the creatures surged forward and took
Clark to the ground. It was immediately slashing at his sides and biting at
his face. He was able to force it back with the forecrip of the
rifle, barely avoiding getting those four inch long things buried in his throat.
The armor took the worst of the slashes, but he knew it wasn't going
to protect him much longer. He yanked the pistol from his holster and he
shoved it into the beast's left armpit and began pulling the trigger. The powerful
fifty ae hollow points buried deep inside the bee's chest, ripping and tearing their
way through the soft tissue. After the fourth round, the bee let out
a gurgling wine and fell off to Clark's right. Using the beast's momentum,
he kicked it hard enough that it rolled into the water's edge, and before
the beast could recover enough to stand, two of the shark men exploded from
the water and dragged it, yelling into the deep dark depths. One of
the creatures leapt at Gregel. Calling on the power of the Great Wolf.
Gregel shifted his weight and caught the creature, and while he hadn't shifted form,
he had changed enough to use some of the incredible strength of the dire
wolf. Twisting. He used the martial arts grip and throw to send the
creature headfirst into the water well over its head. Instantly, the water churned
as if it were boiling, turning into a white froth of violence and death.
The creature emerged briefly, scrambling desperately to get to the shore. It
was bleeding from numerous cuts and deep wounds where chunks of flesh had been and
away, and the respite was as futile as it was brief. The contest
was never in doubt, as two of the sharp men emerged from the water,
grabbing the beast by both shoulders and yanking it back into the dark abyss.
The remaining three creatures fanned out, each wary of getting too close to
the two warriors. Clark used the opportunity to empty the rest of the pistol
into the chest and neck of the nearest creature. Run. He shouted,
dropping the magazine from the pistol and reloading as he ran. Gregil began moving
toward the trail that was only fifty yards away, and Clark kept pace with
him, each taking turns to fire at the creatures behind them. In seconds,
the creatures vanished into the darkness of the trees, but they could hear
them scrambling into the tree tops. Thunder God to Valkyrie, shouted Clark,
we are inbound to your position from the west. Three tangos are pursuing from
the treetops, were coming in high. Can you provide cover over Valkyrie copies,
thunder God, said Valkyrie, switching to thermal. Clark and Gregel ran
as hard as they could, listening to the sound of the three creatures getting
closer. As the creatures were within striking distance, the massive report of a
single rifle split the night. They could hear the zip of the round as
it punched through the canopy of trees, and then there was a slap of
flesh as the big boar round found its mark. One of the beasts snarled
and fell from the trees, landing in a heap in front of them.
It had been hit in the side of the head, and while the wound
was healing, it was going to take time, and before it could so
much as blink, Clark emptied the pistol into the beast's face. As he
ran past it. Another boom echoed across the lake. As Valkyrie fired again,
Another squall emerged from the trees, but this one didn't fall. They
did, however, stop chasing them and Clark he loaded as he was running,
and then holstered the pistol As they burst from the trees. He quickly
reloaded the rifle and pulled the charging handle, and spinning around, he brought
the rifle up, searching for any threats. Heins and Runestone and shield Maiden
ran up and brought their weapons to their shoulders. Viah Ady demanded Heins.
They're in the trees, said Clark. One is down on the trail.
It's not dead, but we fucked it up pretty bad. It's down for
now. There is more than one kind of the cat creatures, said Grego,
scanning the trees. Yeah, said Haines, at least three that we
know of. What the fuck were those things in the water, shouted Clark.
Well you attacked, asked Heins, No, replied Clark. They dragged
down three of the cats, though, really, said Haines with an odd
expression on his face. What the fuck are those things? Demanded Clark.
That is a very long story, said Haines. One. I am uncertain
if I could even tell you, at least not here. I have a
lot of questions for you, said Clark angrily, as do I. Thunder
God, said Hins. Fuck, whispered Clark, perhaps, said Hines.
We can discuss it once you leave here tonight. That can meet you at
your hotel later. I think we both need a strong drink for this conversation.
Until then we will pretend none of this has happened. They're are far
too many years here for us to have a private conversation. I look forward
to that drink, said Clark, perhaps, said Hins, However, you
might not like everything you hear. Chapter eight, A Bit of Colored Ribbon
twenty three thirty hours, fourteen May. In Alco, Clark and the others
stood in the dining room waiting for the arrival of Henderman and the others.
They were still wearing the military fatigues they had been given. They were all
unarmed, having surrendered their weapons to Heinz when they returned to the main house.
Hines had instructed them to wait there while he briefed Henderman and brought them
out of the safe room. What do you think is going to happen next,
asked Valkyrie, looking around the room. Well, will either be shot
or fed again, said Runestone, grinning. I'm hoping for the food.
EH beats getting shot, agreed Raven. I could eat, said Gregel,
smiling softly. OK. Dare you are, said Henderman, emerging from the
fireplace and stepping into the dining area. I have been told good things about
you, especially here and Frau Clark and Hair great Eagle. You are responsible
for the deaths of three of the creatures and the capture of one. Most
Impressive Clark exchanged glances with Gregel. Well, we were just doing our park,
said Clark. Nonsense, said Henderman. I would gladly hire all of
you from my security team if you were interested. Most Impressive. Indeed,
I appreciate the offer, said Clark. But we're on our honeymoon, of
course, said Henderman. You should enjoy yourselves for the remainder of the honeymoon.
I would only ask that you think about it during your stay. We
will Clark said, I have a gift for you, said Henderman. I
was going to give it to you as a wedding gift before our dinner was
so rudely interrupted. Turning, he motioned for the servant to bring something over,
and the young man brought a square object wrapped in white cloth, handing
it to Henderman. He turned and scurried back to the corner. Henderman took
the package and turned around, smiling broadly. This is Fazeneu household, said
Henderman, presenting the object to Clark and Valkyrie. They accept it. It
confused, open it, insisted Henderman. They gently removed the cloth and found
it to be a painting. It was a landscape portrait of the lake,
painted from the front of Enalco, most likely from the private balcony. It
was quite good. I have been painting landscapes for many years, said Henderman.
I have improved much since I first started. It must be the Argentine
air. Please accept this as my guilt to your union and to hang in
a place of honor in your home. Clark noted the signature was a broad
sweeping a with a smaller print for the rest of the Augustus. The age
was in the same broad style with the remainder of Henderman in small letters.
Clark remembered seeing paintings in a museum that were allegedly done by Hitler. Other
than the names being different, the signatures were virtually identical. I'm not sure
what to say, said Clark. Thank you, said Valkyrie. This will
be put with our other treasured pieces. Clark instantly thought of the wall at
Steve's pub and grub, and he wondered if he'd let them hang it if
he knew where it came from. Wundebah, said Henderman, smiling broadly.
Valkyrie carefully re wrapped the painting so it wouldn't be scratched. Now I have
something else to present, said Henderman. I know that you are not in
the military, nor am I yourlita, but I have something of historical significance
to present you all for your bravery tonight, Actonge, shouted Heinz. Despite
themselves, they all found themselves snapping to attention. Henderman held out his hand,
and Heinz handed him a wooden box. These metals are pieces of history,
said Henderman. Awarded for gallantry and deface of great danger. Tonight,
you and your friends stood in line with my men against the fold like nothing
you have ever seen. I was told in detail how you all handled yourselves
and engaged the creatures without hesitation. You have shown great courage in the protection
of myself and my honored guests. Clark glanced at Valkyrie and she shrugged,
almost imperceptibly. So in the spirit of valor, said Henderman, I present
four of you the Iron Cross of Valor. He hung the iron cross around
the necks of Runestone, Raven, Shield, Maiden, and Valkyrie. For
bravery above and beyond the call of duty, said Henderman. I award two
of you the Knight's Cross. He hung one around Gregel's neck and then around
Clark's. Well done, Henderman said, nodding appreciatively. Clark wasn't sure what
to do. He took it off, and they would likely be shot for
insulting him. If he did anything except grateful, they would all likely be
seized and killed. He never expected this to happen and wasn't sure how to
react or feel about it. Now, said Henderman, I have kept you
from your bedchambers on your first night in this beautiful land far too long.
My driver will return you all to your hotel. Instructions are already being delivered
to the hotel management that you are to receive their highest level of accommodation at
my expense. Please enjoy your time here. Also consider my offer both for
employment and the wonderful aircraft we will, sir, said Clark. Excellent,
said Henderman. I bid you all good night. Perhaps before your stay is
over, you can return for another formal dinner. I would welcome the chance
to have you play for us again. Well, I would be delighted,
said Clark, stalling for time. Ed heins said Henderman. See to it
that I guessed, make it better to their hotel without issue. Of course,
mine hitter, said Heinz. They were shown to a changing room,
where they changed back into their formal wear, and then escorted back to the
Mercedes. Joakim was there waiting to hold the door for them. Thank you,
Joakim, said Clark, stepping inside. Joachim smiled broadly at the use
of his name, and Clark had the feeling that most people just ignored him
or treated him like nothing more than furniture. You are most welcome, mine,
he said Jokim. Once they were all situated in the car. Jokim
returned to the driver's side and climbed inside. Heinz climbed into the passenger side.
He changed into black slacks in a black turtleneck sweater. He had a
pistol in one of the HK rifles with him. The sleep Mercedes rumbled to
life and the engine idled smoothly. And putting it gently into gear, Jokim
headed down the road toward the gate. They could see where considerable damage had
been done to some of the facilities inside the compound. The gate was damaged
but was being repaired as they drove through without being stopped or questioned. Moments
later, they turned onto the highway and headed back into town. They rode
in silence as they drove along the dark road. Hinz watched the edges of
the trees with his hand on the rifle, but they saw no indication of
movement or danger. The area was still quiet, but nothing moved or seemed
out of place. It was just eerily calm. Once they cleared the trees,
they passed Meridor in Nalko and saw that the lake seemed far more sinister
than it had on the way out to Analco. Now They knew the secret
of what was hiding in the dark waters, and it worried them all.
They had no idea how to fight, much less kill these creatures. The
water was their domain. They were going to have to figure out how to
take the fight to the end without being completely outmatched. They drove past the
silent village and soon pulled beneath the carport of the front of the hotel.
Haines placed the weapon on the floorboard and stepped out. Jokim came around and
opened the door to help them all out, and once they were all out,
he bowed and clicked his heels together. I hope that your knight was
not completely ruined by the unfortunate incident, said Yokim. Thank you, said
Clark. It was certainly a knight. We will never forget. I will
be accompanying them inside, said Hines to Jokim, I can find my way
back to Annanko. Owe these people many drinks to thank them for their help.
Of course, manheur said Yokim. Heading inside. Clark nodded at Haines.
Meet us in the bar, he said, I want to go change
into something less formal. Of course, said Haines. They all climbed into
the elevator and returned to their rooms. None of you have to come down
with me, said Clark. I intend to find out everything I can from
heights. It might look strange if you're the only one who shows up,
said Valkyrie. I'll go with you. We all will, said Gregel.
I think we all have questions, okay, said Clark. Get changed and
meet me in the bar as soon as you can. They all returned to
their rooms, and Valkyrie hided into the bathroom to change while Clark changed in
the main part of the room. He put on jeans and a black T
shirt that had said until Valhalla on the front, with an American flag on
the right sleeve and a logo on the back of an M four style rifle
set in a pair of boots with a helmet on top, and a set
of dog tags hanging from the rifle. Valkyrie emerged from the bathroom wearing tight
jeans and tennis shoes and an olive drabbed T shirt with a distressed American flag
on it. We seriously need to think about the shirts we wear on undercovered
missions, said Clark. We both scream American. Well that's what we are,
said Valkyrie grinning. And we've already established that we were all in the
military. Why not just relax and wear what we want. That's a good
point, said Clark. Let's go have a drink with Heins and find out
just what the hell is going on. Slipping his glock conversion into an inside
the waistband holster at the small of his back, Clark pulled the shirt down
to conceal it. He tucked a couple of extra magazines in his back pocket,
and Valkyrie slipped her pistol and extra ammo into her purse. As they
headed down the hallway, Gregel and Shielman and joined them. They could hear
bedsprings as they passed Runestone in Raven's room. Well, I guess they'll be
down for a bit, said Clark, shaking his head. They entered the
bar and they found Heins sitting at one end with a glass in his hands.
I didn't wait, said Heinz, smiling. Za bontender is off of
the night. The manager told me to help ourselves. My employer is picking
up the tab. Anyway, Clark walked behind the bar and searched until he
found a bottle of Irish whiskey. It wasn't bush Mills, but he wasn't
going to get picky so far from home. It was Twola more Due,
so he wasn't going to complain too loudly. It wasn't bush Mills, but
it was good. At least it wasn't Jamison. If it had been,
he would have probably drank something else. Once they were all seated at the
bar, Clark acted as a bartender, pouring them all generous glasses of whatever
they wanted. Well are the others, asked Heinz. They're indisposed at the
moment, said Clark. Heinz looked confused for a moment before it dawned on
him. Ah, I see, he said, I have heard it referred
to as the mattress mambo. Well that's as delicate a way to put it
as any, I suppose, said Clark, lifting his glass. Heinz lifted
his glass back. Now do you want to tell us just what the hell
is going on? Clark, setting down his now empty glass. I suppose
I could ask the same thing here thunder God, replied heins I recognize code
names when I hear them. Would you believe old habits? Asked Clark,
refilling his glass, Heins just looked at him blankly as he reached for the
bottle of schnapps. I suppose not, said Clark. All right, but
you go first. Heinz took out an object that looked like a cell phone
until he activated it and set it on the bar. This will prevent any
listening devices from hearing what we are about to discuss, he said, nodding.
Clark sipped at his whiskey and waited for Heinz to begin. The first
thing that concerns me is what exactly are the Americans doing here in the first
place, said Heins. Your superiors did a very good job of concealing your
names on the Internet, but they forgot one very important thing. What's that?
Asked Clark. Well, I find it interesting that a recipient of the
Congressional Medal of Honor would just vanish from the internet, said Hines. This
The last entry showed you working for some small sheeff department in Missouri. That's
obviously a cover. Who do you work for? Clark frowned and shrugged you
first, he said, sipping his whisky. Very well, said Hins.
My real name is Oscarbauer. I'm with the Commando's spitzeilograph to marine. I
was sent here to infiltrate this organization to help to bring the surviving members of
the Third Right to justice. I did not expect to find what I did.
It has taken me more than two years to get this far inside,
and then you show up and just blindly stumble into what it took me years
to learn. I never would have thought that simply showing up in a vintage
aircraft would get you so much attention. So they are who we think they
are, said Clark. Yes, said Hines. You were just awarded the
Knight's Cross by Aintolf Hitler. The others are his inner circle. Fuck,
said Clark. That just makes my skin crawl, as it should, said
Hines. Although it's not like you could tell anyone who would believe you.
You make a good point, said Clark. So what's the German government going
to do with them? Since they're protected by a foreign government? Honestly,
said Hines. We were considering simply letting the Israelis know. Well, that
could get nasty, said Clark. Or quite nasty, said Hines. How
is it they can be so open with their activities, asked Valkyrie. I
mean they don't do much to hide. Does it feel untouchable here, said
Hines. They have a big part of the Argentine government in their pocket,
enough so that the Argentinas will not move against them openly. They have been
I'm so protected here that they feel invulnerable. I mean, no one has
been able to get close to them in almost eighty years. Well, I
plan to change that, said Clark, With just six of you, asked
Heines. Not hardly, said Clark. We didn't come looking for them.
We were sent here because of a group from a television show that went missing
on the lake. Are you specialized divers, asked Hines. Well, Alvarez
is, said Clark. He's a seal. But we're not here to dive.
We're here to confirm the presence of non human monsters. We've done that
and now the rest of the team can come in. So you're here for
the attack on the lake, said Hins, refilling his glass of schnops.
You saw them in more than you bargained for, y'all, yes, said
Clark, taking a sip of whiskey. We also know there's more than one
kind of cat creature, yes, said Hines. Well that we know of
one that is very much like a sab or two tiger, one that resembles
a black panther, and one that seems like a large, dark tone tiger.
The fourth is smaller than the others. Perhaps stay up, park,
Jaguar. We aren't sure. We've never been able to take any of them
to study. They seemed to get up after taking incredible damage. We did
capture one of the panthers once, but I have no idea what happened to
it. The one you brought down tonight did not survive. Shit, whispered
Valkyrie. Four. That's not good. We've got our hands full this time.
Why do they want one alive? Asked Clark, setting his empty glass
on the bar. Valkyrie reached over and refilled his glass for him while Heine
swirled its snops around in the glass before drinking it. With a sigh.
He slammed the empty down onto the bar. One of it for the week
my high project, said Hines, not looking up. I knew those men.
One was my partner. We were sitting here at the same time.
Why would they need a cat creature for the project, asked g Regel.
They took genetic samples and isolated what allowed the creatures to shift forms, said
Hines, staring at an empty glass. Zenzy used it to force the change
onto the wife and how only it did not work as they had planned.
They changed, but there was no controlling them. They all had the cunning
of men, but all savagery of a great white shark. So it broke
free from the containment and the skipped into the leg three weeks ago. But
we have to find them and stop them, said Clark. Can they be
changed back, asked Heines, his voice soft. Can they be saved?
I don't know, said Clark. That's way above my pay grade. All
I know is we have to stop them. If we can subdue one for
our team scientists to study, maybe they're might be away. I don't know,
and I can't promise anything. I understand, said Hines. Lucas is
a good friend. We went through training together, trust me, said Clark.
I completely understand, not wanting to give up on your friend. If
there is a way we will save him, I don't know if there is
anything we can do, but we will try, Donka, said Hines sadly.
However, whatever you plan to do, I hope that you do it
soon. Why is that, asked Valkyrie, because They are planning to attempt
in the experiment again, said Hines. They believe that they know what went
wrong with the first group. I've been selected for the second group. They've
already begun with a series of shots to boost our metabolisms, and it's starting
to work. Ordinarily, this much snobs would have me stumbling around the room.
I've already drank most of the entire bottle and I feel no ill effects.
Gray Eagle nodded grimly. How do we fight mutator shark men, asked
Clark. They'll completely dominate any diver in the water. We don't stand a
chance in their element. Can they come out on to land? They can,
said Hines. We have attempted to lure them out without success. They
are highly intelligent, but I have little hope that there is any humanity left
end Zim. They are programmed to be a team, so they hunt in
a pack to target enemy forces in the water and neutralize them. I do
not doubt that they would be smart enough to force open an emergency hatch on
a submarine. However, they would be too large to enter the hatch,
not the supply hatch, said Clark. They could fit in there, but
moving around inside would be virtually impossible. They're too big for the cramped quarters,
but they really wouldn't need to. If they could force the hatch open,
then the sub would flood and it would sink exactly, said Hines.
In the water, they are virtually unstoppable, at least by any means known
to us. What made them attack the boat, asked Clark. The only
thing we can think of is the sonar, said Hines. They seemed to
be sensitive to the sound. The pinging of the sonar largely enraged them.
Then there were no survivors, said Valkyrie. Sadly, that part is not
true, said Hines. I am full of My men went out to the
chicken boat in our inflatable attack boats what your people call zodiacs. We were
able to pull for us them from the boat before the way Fa High could
get to them. We had to run up onto the shore to keep them
from getting us. As we fled the sinking boat, we rescued the female
host of the show, both cameramen and one computer technician. Where are they,
asked Clark. We placed them into temporary custody, said Hines. We
couldn't allow them to alert the press to the presence of the waipa. How
before we could either capture or eliminate them. We didn't want the assautists coming
around. It was almost two days before we learned that they had managed to
send images and information back to their television station. Are they going to release
them? Asked Valkyrie. I was told that they would be released, said
Hines, But it is far more likely that they would simply disappear. The
public already believes them dead. Hnderman. Can't risk them talking about what they've
seen. It could bring a lot of attention here. Well, that particular
genie is out of the bottle, said Clark. The rest of our team
is already mobilizing. How many in your team, asked Hines. More than
one hundred, said Clark, not including support personnel that will not be easy
to hide, said Hines. How do you plan on bringing that many in?
That will be my boss's decision, said Clark. We're the advanced team
what we call this cat team or the Cryptid Assessment Team. We're the advanced
team for Team odin the wild Hunt. Your team hunts monsters, asked Hines,
disbelief in his tone. Yes we do, said Clark. If I
hadn't seen the cat creatures with my own eyes, said Hines, then I
would have questioned your sanity. I take it that there are more than these
monsters out Zell he gestured to the world around them. Yes, said Greg,
far more than you realize. As if facing the reincarnation of the Third
Reich wasn't bad enough, said Hines, I do appreciate the irony of the
last remnants of the rich being taken down by oldin ends the wild hunt.
All right, I'm in. How can I help you? Well, it
is kind of fitting, said Valkyrie. You can get us all the information
that you can about their activity, said Clark, plus the strength of their
forces and placement of their weapons, and other locations that you know of.
I want as much intel as you can give us, and if we're going
to take them down, we need to know what we're up against. If
you're bringing in just over a hundred fighting men, said Hines, you might
want to ask for additional troops. You will be heavily outnumbered. There are
far more than what you saw at Nuncle. I think I can do that,
said Clark. You just get us the intel. I will have it
to you by the end of the day tomorrow, said Hines. Where should
I send it? Clark gave him his secure email address, and instead of
writing it down, Heinz put it into his device. No one but I
can get into his phone, said Heins. Biometric lock. Even my superiors
in Germany couldn't get into it without my thumb print or facial recognition. Okay,
said Clark. You get us that info. Let me worry about bringing
in enough troops to make this happen. And how will you get them here?
Quickly, asked Heins. It's easy, said Clark. Every member of
the team is airborne qualified. It looks like the Wild Hunt gets to earn
their jump. Damn, muttered Gregel. The first jump deployment I've seen with
the team and I have to miss it. Looks like I need to make
a call, said Clark. All father isn't going to believe this one,
Asgard won't either, said Valkyrie. You're telling me that you're going to launch
a full scale elborne invasion of Patagonia, ask Heinz. It is the quickest
way to get them here, said Clark, grinning. I'm with Gregel.
I'm just sorry that I'm not going to be jumping with them. Chapter nine,
Pillow Talk O. Two thirty hours, fifteen May, Lake Naelapi,
Gray, Eagle, Shield, Maiden, Runestone, and Raven were all in
Clark and Valkyrie's room. Valkyrie was waiting with them. Clark was still on
the roof using the satellite phone, speaking with Command. He'd been on the
phone for over an hour. They were beginning to grow worried when Clark dropped
back onto the balcony. That went better than I expected, said Clark.
What happened, asked Falkyrie. At first, Asgard was against it, said
Clark. I was on conference with Asgard, all father and several others.
They said that a direct assault on them wasn't in the purview of the team.
But after I explained that they created the shark Men and that they were
just going to create more, Asgard went up the food chain. Well,
how high up the chain? Asked Gregel. Let's just say he disturbed the
sleep of a very important person who lives on Pennsylvania Avenue, said Clark.
It took a while, but I explained it again. Then he left the
conversation for about half an hour. I'm given to understand that he made a
couple of high level calls before greenlighting us. We've got whatever resources we need,
plus full support of JSOC should we need it. Also, there are
numerous arrests being made as we speak within the Argentine government. Now this is
the part where it's going to get interesting. What, asked Valkyrie. Two
elements of the Hunt are on their way, said Clark. They're only sending
two teams, asked Runestone, not teams, corrected Clark. Elements Alaska has
been asked to cover the west and East coast until this thing is finished.
Both West Coast and Midwest divisions of the Hunt are dropping in asgard is leading
this personally, the general is going to jump, asked Raven. Everyone's going
to said Clark. They're dropping everything. How are they going to explain this,
asked Gregel. Special training exercise authorized by the Argentinian government, said Clark.
It's being called a rapid deployment exercise to check the readiness of the military
to deploy a large force anywhere in the world with minimal notice. Holy shit,
said Runestone. Indeed, said Gregel, when do they drop? There's
a small fleet of C five alex Sees and see seventeen Globe Masters already on
their way, said Clark. Best guess we should see the beginnings of the
drop near sundown. What about the cat creatures, asked Valkyrie. We got
less than sixteen hours to locate them, and they'll task a team to take
them on, said Clark, unless we determine we can handle them before their
arrival. So much forgetting any sleep, said Valkyrie. When do we leave?
I don't want to go until it's daylight, said Clark. We didn't
pack night visions. Only Gregel would be able to see them coming. That
means we can grab a few hours of sleep. I suggest we make the
most of it. Once the team's hit the ground, we won't be getting
much rest. He's right, said Gregel. We should grab some rack time
while we have the chance. Everyone headed back to their respective rooms. Valkyrie
headed into the bathroom to change, leaving Clark to slip into a T shirt
and shorts before she came back out. When she exited the bathroom, he
headed to his teeth before bed, and returning a few minutes later, he
headed for the couch. You know, she said, we're both adults.
We can sleep in the same bed without anything going on. I feel bad
that you would have to sleep on that couch. It's too short to lay
down, and it does not look comfortable. I've slept on worse, he
said, much worse. I know you have, she said, we both
have, but this is different. We're in a four star hotel. You
should be comfortable too. Are you afraid of me? I don't bite,
and I do shower on occasion. Clark thought about it for a moment.
All right, he said, I guess it won't hurt anything. Valkyrie slid
over to one side, while Clark slipped beneath the covers on the other.
Once his head hit the pillow, he closed his eyes and stretched. The
mattress was very comfortable, and the pillows seemed to cradle his head without any
pressure. I really can't believe everything that we've learned and experienced has only been
in one day, said Valkyrie softly. Yeah, mumbled Clark. It's been
a long day. I never knew you could play piano, she said,
rolling on to her side to face him. He kept his eyes closed and
didn't react. I don't play often, he said, I'm out of practice.
That sounded great to me, she said, I played songs I remembered.
He said, there's no way I could do that for a song I
haven't played a million times, but Zombie, she asked, You never struck
me as a Cranberries fan. I'm not, he explained. It was my
sister's favorite song. I played it because she liked it. You have a
sister, she asked, you know, he said, opening one eye and
peering at her. I didn't just spring from the ground fully formed. I
have a sister who's a year older than me, and a brother who's six
years older. She's a TV news meteorologist in Saint Louis, and he's a
dick. He lives in New York. I don't stay in contact with the
either of them, one by choice and the other by time. Are they
married? She asked? Do you have any nephews or nieces? Why do
you want to know all this stuff, he asked, because you're a mystery,
she said. No one on the team knows much about you. We're
all taking bets on pieces of your history. That's like how I receive it,
he said, laying back. Well, yeah, she said, it's
classified for some reason. Even with our clearances on the team, we can't
read the fall. It's a need to know information, said Clark. If
it was pertinent to a mission. They would tell you, and you won't
talk about it, she added. There's a reason for that, said Clark.
For one, it's classified, and for another, I don't like to
think about that day other than to miss my friends. Oh I'm sorry,
she said, seeing the pain in his face. You don't have to talk
about that. Tell me about your family, Okay. My sister's married,
he replied, taking the excuse to change the subject. She has two kids,
a boy and a girl. I try to go see them on the
holidays. My brother has been divorced twice. He has no kids. He's
a jackass hedge fund manager. He told me going into the military was a
big waste of time. I told him it was more honest than what he
did. I've never screwed anybody out of their life savings. We're not even
close. Honestly, he's an asshole and I don't like being around him.
What are their names, she asked, Who asked Clark confused? Well,
all of them, said Valkyrie, smiling. Good lord, he said,
opening both eyes. Are you writing a book about me or something? She
laughed. My sister's name is Pamela, he said, Pamela Grayson now.
The kids are Eric and Emily. Her husband's name is Patrick. He's all
right. I guess he's kind of a pansy, but hey, he's good
to her and the kids. My brother's name is Philip. He's been a
dick my entire life, so his being a hedge fund jackass didn't change anything,
see, chatted Valkyrie, smiling softly. That wasn't so bad, was
it? I suppose not, said Clark. What about you? How did
you wind up a sniper in the pgs? I mean you could have been
a model or an actress or something. Well, I'm an only child,
she said. My dad retired a Master sergeant from the Air Force. It's
the only thing I've wanted to do since I was a kid. He took
me hunting a lot when I was young, and that's when I learned to
shoot. When I joined the Air Force, my parents were proud, but
I know my mom wanted me to go to college and do something else,
like modeling or something. But that wasn't for me, and during training I
broke every record in my unit for marksmanship. I enlisted to go into the
Air Force security, and when word of my shooting got out, I was
offered a chance to go to a pair of rescue school, and I happily
accepted. I guess you did well, said Clark, based on what I've
seen. I excelled in shooting, and I kept up with the men on
all the courses, she said. I held my own and graduated with honors.
And on my first duty assignment to Afghanistan, my commanding officer decided that
I was going to be his personal fuck toy. He called me to his
quarters and ordered me to get into his bed, and when I said no,
he grabbed me and then tried to rape me. What happened, asked
Clark, a note of anger in his tone. I broke his jaw,
she said. When he called me to his quarters, I suspected it was
something like that, so I recorded the conversation with my phone. When I
presented that at the court martial, I ended the career of a full Bird
colonel and ruined my reputation with the PJS. I knew then that I had
to either leave the Air Force or find another way to serve, and one
of my senior staff, Brigadier General Brenda Chambers, gave me the option of
trying out for this team took it. I was also given a large cash
settlement to not bring the sexual assault public. So you're rich, said Clark.
What did you do with all that money, if you don't mind me
asking, I gave a big chunk of it to the Defense Fund for service
women who suffered the same thing I did, said Valkyrie. The rest,
well, I paid off my parents' debts so they could live good on dad's
retirement. The rest, well, let's just say when I decided to retire,
I'll have a nice ranch in Montana to retire to, and my parents
lived there keeping the place up for me. I've still got enough tucked away
that i'll have a nice nest egg when I retire. That's a smart girl,
said Clark. Honestly, I'd like to find that colonel and feed him
his teeth too late, said Valkyrie. When I told my story, he
denied it, and when I presented the video, he asked for a JAG
officer and refused to say anything else. When it looked like he was going
to be court martialed, he ate a bul instead of facing a dishonorable discharge.
Fucking coward, said Clark. I'm sorry that happened to you. I'm
not. She said. It made me stronger and I won't cower down to
anyone. Well, good for you, he said. If anyone ever pulls
that shit, you tell me and I'll nail their ass to the nearest wall.
You know, said Valkyrie. Until I met you, I thought all
officers were like that. I hated officers for a long time. When you
took over, you immediately treated me like an equal. You've never talked down
to me or said that. I did a good job for a woman.
You do a good job for anyone, said Clark. I used to think
I was a good shot till I met you. You're fucking scary with a
rifle. She blushed and chuckled. Thank you, she said, See that's
what I'm talking about. You don't act like an officer. I was an
E six staff sergeant when I got out of the army, he said.
Saunders pulled some strings and got me to join the team. He wanted me
as his executive officer. I don't know how he made that happen, but
he did so. In my heart, I'm still just a staff sergeant.
I take care of my people, so they'll take care of me. That's
how it should always work. I wish more people in leadership positions felt that
way, said Valkyrie. Well, I'm sorry you had to go through that,
said Clark. I would never do anything like that to you or anyone.
You have more than proven you deserve your position with this team. You're
the best shooter I've ever worked with, and I've worked with some good ones.
Thank you. She said. We should try to get some sleep,
said Clark. We've got a full day ahead of us, maybe several days.
Tell me one thing before we doze off. She said, okay,
He said, if the situation was different, she said, hesitantly, would
you have kissed me? I mean, we've had a couple of moments since
we got here where I felt like I wanted you to. Clark took a
deep breath and slowly let it out. I'm not great at saying things,
said Clark. I tend to be too direct for my own goods. Sometimes
we both know the reasons that we can't. First off, I'm married.
Also, there's the entire against regulations thing. But if the situations were different
and none of that applied, yes, she whispered. Well I think you're
beautiful, said Clark, smiling gently. I also find you incredibly intriguing,
a strange mixture of sensual and deadly that I find attractive. It's also the
same mixture that I love about my wife. She's a fighter just like you,
and I love her more than I ever thought I could love anyone.
Yes, I do find you attractive, and yes I would have tried to
kiss you if I were single. But here's the thing. I think kissing
you would be a big mistake. If we were in love. There's a
good chance you might watch me die through your scope, and I couldn't do
that to you. We're soldiers. I can love you, but it must
be as a sister or best friend. I can't imagine doing it any other
way without one of us facing the reality of watching the other one die.
I saw what that did to Amanda when I nearly died in a gunfight while
we were deputies. I can't hurt anyone like that again. Valkyrie sat in
silence for a long moment, looking down at the bed. I have a
confession to make, she said, softly. What's that I've been texting your
wife since we left Fort leonard Wood, she said, looking up mischievously.
I've even been sneaking pictures of you when you weren't watching. Clark frowned her.
What the hell's going on, he asked. Amanda knew that we were
going to be playing husband and wife, she said. I wanted her to
know that nothing would happen between us. Even when I tempted you, nothing
happened. That was just me being rotten. I'm sorry. Clark glared at
her for a moment before smile. So Amanda knows this, he said,
Yes, said Valkyrie, grinning. And if I'd given in to you,
said Clark. You didn't, said Valkyrie, which I find incredibly attractive.
Your sense of honor and code of ethics. Most men would have been on
me faster than Raven and Runstone went at it even without me playing it up.
I hope you're not mad at me now, said Clark. I should
have known you and Amanda would hit it off. How often do you two
text all the time? Said Valkyrie. I send her pictures of you whenever
we take a break or when there isn't any action. My scope has a
chord I can attach to my phone. Clark stared at her for a moment
before shaking his head. God help us, said Clark, should I start
referring to you as my wark wife? Now that's funny, said Valkyrie.
That's exactly what Amanda called me. When we get clear of this mission,
said Clark. I want to see all the picture you've sent her, and
then the three of us need to have a chat. I'll barbecue at the
cabin and we can invite the team and we can talk there. Oh please,
don't be mad at her, said Valkyrie. The flirting part was my
idea. I've got to say, when you clean up and wear a tux,
you're not exactly hard on the eyes. Clark shook his head and put
his hands behind his head. You two are going to be the death of
me, he said. Now let's get some sleep. You got it,
boss, she said, grinning and laying back on her pillow. Clark closed
his eyes, his thoughts whirling. He wasn't sure what was going to be
said in the conversation they were all going to have, but he needed to
play it close to the vest. Neither of them could ever know just how
close he came to giving. In chapter ten, six thirty hours, fifteen
May Lake Nauelape, Valkyrie awoke and rolled over, placing her on the pillow
beside her. It took her a moment to realize that there was nothing there
and it was still warm. Opening her eyes, she glanced around the room
as her vision cleared from sleep. She didn't see any sign of Clark sitting
up in the bed. She caught a glimpse of movement out the corner of
her eye. The sun wasn't up yet and the morning looked chilly. The
movement she'd seen was Clark on the balcony doing pull ups rapidly. He was
wearing his workout shorts and tennis shoes, but no shirt. She saw the
rippling muscles in his back as he moved. She also saw the network of
scars and pucker marks that had to be bullet wounds. He had been doing
them for a while, because the sweat that formed on his back was streaming.
After a few moments, he paused while in the up position, and
then kicked his legs back and dropped from the edge of the roof onto the
floor of the balcony. He had noticed her sitting up in bed, and
he leaned against the railing and looked out over the dark lake. Their room
faced west and would give them a magnificent view of the sunset, but they
would not be able to watch the sunrise. Grabbing a towel that was folded
on the chair beside him, Clark towled off the sweat from his face and
moved inside. When he saw Valkyrie setting up in bed, he smiled,
Good morning, sunshine, he said, how long have you been up?
She asked a little while, He said, I slept out of bed,
so I wouldn't wake you. I usually only sleep a couple of hours at
a time. I just can't seem to sleep longer than that unless his voice
trailed off, unless what she asked, well, Amanda has a way of
making me sleep longer, he said, Let's just leave it at that.
What way is she began, and then paused, Okay, okay, I
get it. I'm going to leave you to ponder that, said Clark.
I'm grabbing a shower. I want us all to get breakfast together before we
head out today. This might be the last meal we eat for a bit.
That isn't an mre ooh, Valkyrie said, wrinkling her nose. Meals
refused by everyone. Those are nasty, Yeah, we used to call them
meals. Ready to excrete said Clark always thought they were barely edible until I
saw their reaction to the kids and the villages of Kandahar. They acted like
it was the greatest thing in the world. And when I saw how they
lived, I understood just how good we have it here. I was deployed
to Afghanistan, she said, but I never left Bogram except to go pull
out down pilots or to cover an extraction, and then we were in and
out on choppers. Other than that, I didn't have much contact with the
locals. I've flown out of Bogram several times, he said, glancing at
the ground. When I was with Delta, we lived in the field for
months at a time. I was assigned to a surveillance team. We'd spent
weeks and months out in the middle of nowhere, watching the enemy move and
relaying it back to the rest of the unit. That's how I picked up
Pashtu. Even before Delta, I did two tours with the fifth Special Forces
Group in Afghanistan. We were technically assigned to Fort Cammel, Kentucky, but
I didn't get to spend much time there. After my second deployment, I
was offered a shot at Delta and I took it. It's a different world
over there, she said, nodding. Yes, it is, he said,
turning and heading into the bathroom. Seconds after he shut the door,
she heard the shower start up, and when she heard the door to the
shower slide shut, she slipped out of bed and lay on the floor.
She started with sit ups to take her mind off of things. She also
needed to work off some energy, she found herself looking forward to the action
that was about to start. It was something else to focus on. Thirty
minutes later, they were all gathered at the hotel restaurant, ordering their breakfast.
If they were dressed as tourists, they had already loaded their bags of
weapons and gear into the suv they rented. Once they were out of town,
they would change and head into the forest to see if Gregel could track
the cat creatures. What's the plan, hefe asked Rumstone, nodding at Clark.
Well, I've been thinking about that, said Clark. Just to the
east of us, as Iago cor Intso, I think we should rent a
boat and follow the shoreline to get closer to the area where we saw the
creature from the road. Otherwise we're going to have to make our move within
view of the town. That's a good idea, said Valkyrie. We can
take the boat down the lake much faster than we can bushwhack through the woods.
Yep, that's what I was thinking, said Clark. All right,
said Gregel. I guess we can just ask the front desk to get us
a boat. Yeah, make sure you specify which lake we wanted on,
said Raven. I don't think it would do well on the rapids filled river
that connects to corn Toso and Nauelap. That river would tear most boats apart.
That's exactly why I think we'll be safe from the shark men on the
other lake, said Clark. I can't see them fighting that river in current
without being seen by the locals. I wouldn't assume that, said Rumstone.
We have no idea what they're capable of. It might be a piece of
cake for them to swim upstream. We can't afford to make any assumptions,
said Gregel. I can't see them attacking the boat unless we're pinging with sonar,
said Valkyrie. I mean that one boat is the only one we've heard
of that was reported missing. The locals go out on both lakes, all
the time, especially the local fishermen. All right, then, said Clark.
Fortunately, we won't be packing in any sonar gear. We're running light
on gear as it is. Let's eat and get moving. Clock is running
and we've got to be ready for the others to arrive. The waiters arrived
at the table and began handing out large plates of breakfast foods. She was
very pretty, with just a hint of a tattoo sticking out from beneath her
sleeves. She set out a large tray of pastries resembling croissants along with everyone's
order, and Grego had a large pile of eggs scrambled with cheese and peppers
and spicy sausage. He also had two large steaks on the side. The
waitress looked at him skeptically as she placed the two large platters in front of
him. Good look, sir, she said, in excellent English. I
will be surprised if you can eat all of that instill a walk. I'll
do my best, said greg On, nodding. What are those pastries,
asked valkyrie. It's a local breakfast tradition, said the waitress. They are
called bascocas it's a pastry with different fillings. Some are cream filled, some
have jellied fruit inside. I have chocolate. They are delicious. I can't
wait to try them, said Valkyrie. Everyone began eating large portion of breakfasts,
just not quite as large as Gregel's. Why are you eating so much,
asked Raven. I'm going to have to change, said Gregel. I
burn a lot of calories. Even if I don't. My metabolism is much
faster than normal I see, said Raven. I never really thought about that.
I think I have a better idea than the boat, said Valkyrie.
Why don't we go up in the plaine. We can use the excuse that
we're going sight seeing and land on the lake when we see something. That's
a great idea, said Clark. I already had ernesto refuel the plane.
After they finished eating, Valkyrie tried one of the pastries and her eyes rolled
back in her head as she chewed. Oh my god, she whispered,
these are amazing. What flavor did you get, asked SHEI old maiden.
Reaching for one chocolate, said Valkyrie. I'm a chocoholic and I love it.
Gregel picked one up and took a bite. His eyes flew wide open,
and he looked at the rest of the pastry with one raised eyebrow.
Raspberry, said Gregel, these are delicious. Clark waved the waitress over.
Yes, sir, she said, Can you get us a couple of large
orders of picoccis to go please? He asked, Of course, sir,
She said, see, they are quite delicious. A few minutes later they
left the restaurant with a large white paper bag. Gregel had shocked the waitress
by not only finishing his breakfast but also ate four biscoccos. Great idea of
bringing more of those with us, said Valkyrie. We can snack on them
throughout the day, absolutely, said Clark. Recovering their bags from the suv,
they headed for the plane, and once they had everything packed inside,
they began double checking the engines for signs of wear or tampering. While they
were performing the pre flight, Ernesto came out to them. Are you leaving
already? He asked? Oh no, said Clark, smiling. We're going
to fly over the area to take pictures. We should be back in a
few hours. This place is too beautiful not to take advantage of some aerial
photography. Oh, of course, Senor said Ernesto, we will a witch
your return. Thank you, sir, said Clark. We should be back
before sundown. Ernesto returned and headed back toward the hotel, while Clark untied
the mooring lines and climbed in through the cockpit hatch. Gregel was already performing
the pre flight checklist. Clark jumped into the pilot's seat and helped finish the
checks, and once they were satisfied that everything was in order, Clark began
the startup sequence. There was a whine as the starter engaged the starboard engine
and it coughed and then rumbled to life, slowly spilling up to the correct
pressure in RPMs. Once it was running smoothly, Clark fired up the port
engine. The process repeated, and soon both engines were rumbling as they idled
like a dreaming dragon. Pressures look good, said Gregel, studying the instruments.
Mister Gregel said Clark, imitating the voice of a famous starship captain.
You have the con take us up, I captain, said Gregel, smiling.
I had one quarter impulse power. I didn't know you were a sci
fi fan, said Clark, glancing over at Gregel. I loved that show
as a kid. I quit watching after the series about the space station.
I never really cared for it after that. Yeah, I quit watching about
them too, said Clark. I still watch it if I catch it on
television, but when do we ever have time to watch television? Well,
that's true, said Gregel, giving more power to the engines. They began
gliding away from the shore and out into the deeper parts of the lake,
and Clark watched nervously, half expecting the shark men to attack them at any
moment, Hey said Clark, yelling back to the passenger area, break out
the gear and load the weapons. I want to be ready if we have
any unexpected visitors out here. Once they were about one hundred yards off shore,
Gregel brought the aircraft around to face a slight breeze. Clark glanced back
and saw that everyone was back in their seats holding their weapons. He nodded
at Gregel, and he turned back to face the front as the engines began
to growl with power. Seconds later, they were racing along the surface of
the water, gaining speed and generating lift, and Gregel pulled back on the
wheel as he adjusted the flaps and trim the old girl gracefully lifted into the
air, and the ground quickly fell away from them. We're airborne, said
Clark. I'm turning off the no smoking signs and you are free to move
about the cabin. Valkyrie slipped into the cockpit and handed them both their weapons.
Sliding into the navigator's seat, she looked around at all the instruments.
This is a museum piece, she said. How is it that it's even
still flying. They made these birds to last, said Clark. With proper
maintenance and engine rebuilds, this old girl could fly until she's over one hundred
maybe longer. Gregel banked around and headed northeast toward a Lake Cornoso. Once
they passed over the village, he reduced altitude and flew low enough that they
could make out the details along the shore. They were looking for any signs
of movement or indication of where the creatures might have been. Everything eventually needs
water, and they hoped that they would find where they came to drink.
After flying along the shore for several minutes, Gregel looked up and tapped Clark
on the shoulder. Boss, check that out, said Gregel, pointing.
Clark turned and looked just ahead the shore, veered inland and opened into what
looked like a large bay. You think it's worth checking out, asked Gregel.
Definitely, said Clark, reaching for his binoculars. As they banked into
the bay, Clark began searching the tree line for anything that might give away
its presence. After a few seconds, he paused and began focusing the binoculars.
I think I've got something, he said, grinning. What do you
see, said Gregel. Looks like a spot where something has been dragged from
the shore to the trees, said Clark, pointing to where the spot was.
Do you want me to land, said Gregel. Yeah, said Clark.
Set us down. I think we may have found a good place to
start our search. Hopefully you can pick up their trail. Gregel brought them
down without an issue and idled up to the shore, giving it a sudden
burst of throttle. He beats the aircraft so it wouldn't float away. Clark
was up through the cockpit hatch in seconds, bringing up his AA twelve in
case something was to rush them from the trees, and when nothing happened,
he called back inside. Let's move, he said. They all quickly changed
into fatigues and strapped on their gear. Clark packed as much AMMO as he
could carry in his rucksack and then reached for his blade. Shit, he
said, I didn't pack my gladyas I got your boss, said Runestone,
handing Clark a long blade and a Kaidak sheath. What's this asked Clark,
drawing the black curved blade and admiring it. It's called the Bounty, said
Runestone. She's almost twenty five inches of lethal functionality. It's from Scalleywag tactical
about all my adge weapons from them. I don't want to take your blade,
said Clark, starting to hand it back. Don't worries, fa,
said Runestone. I've got another one, always packed two here. You can
have one of its little brothers too, and he tossed them a smaller knife
that's called the Gunner's mate, said Runestone. It's a thick blade and meant
for doing some damage. I can see why you carry these, said Clark.
If you told me they made an axe, I might have a new
favorite brand of blades. Well funny you should mention that, said Runestone,
tossing him a black handled axe and a keyed axe holster. It's called the
boarding axe. Clark drew it and admired the cutting edge of the blade.
It had a wicked downward curve edge spiked on the back that he envisioned doing
a lot of damage to an opponent in a fight. Are you sure you
don't mind, said Clark, still admiring the blades, Yeah, said Runestone.
I mean if you want to keep them, then add them to the
expense report. You're holding almost a grand in cutlery. They're not cheap.
I think I might do that, said Clark, clipping the blades in place.
He put the gunner's mate on his belt and attached the boarding axe and
the bounty to the sides of his pack where he could reach them easily.
After he double checked his weapons, he glanced around at the others lock a
load, he said. If we encounter hostels, choose your shots carefully.
The AMMO we have with us is all we have until the rest of the
team gets here. Charging handles were pulled and slides were racked as everyone loaded
alive round into the chambers of their weapons. Clark had the drum magazine on
his AA twelve plus five more in his pack. If those ran out,
he was going to have to get creative. The only other option he would
have is the fifty GI clock on his hip and the blades. Valkyrie slung
her sniper's rifle over her shoulder and brought the hkun P fifty up, clipping
it to the single point sling hanging around her neck. She glanced at Clark
and gave him a brief smile before putting on her game face. Grabbing an
old booney hat from his pack, Clark placed it on his head and nodded.
In the immortal words of my hero, Al Bundy, said Clark,
let's rock. Exiting the plane, they found themselves on an empty beach that
was more small rocks than sand. Gregel looked around, his nose twitching as
he sniffed the air. The air was beautiful but eerily quiet. Only the
gentle breeze through the pines and the soft lapping water against the shore broke the
stillness. I don't like this, boss, whispered Brunstone. It's too goddamn
quiet. Clark nodded. It was quiet enough that he could hear the creak
of the leather gloves that Valkyrie wore as she tightened her grip on her weapon.
Clark slowly brought his AA twelve up against his shoulder and brought it up
into firing position. Gregel still had his head back sniffing the air, when
suddenly his eyes snapped open and his head came forward. His rifle appeared against
his shoulder so rapidly it almost looked like magic. His sights were trained on
a section of trees almost fifty yards away, and they didn't waver an inch.
What do you see, whispered Clark. Not see, said Gregel.
Since we're being watched by more than one creature, any idea how many,
asked Raven. Several, said Gregel. There are too many sins to identify
individuals. Why aren't they charging us, asked Runestone. I think they're afraid
of the water, said Clark. The survivors from the attack last night probably
told the others get too close to the water. In your shark jowl,
A low growl seemed to emanate from the darkness, which was repeated by several
others. Clark brought the optic up to his eye and flipped the safety off
around him. He could hear the safeties click off as the others prepared for
an attack. I think we found them Boss whispered, runestone or they found
us, added shield maiden. Gregel stepped slightly ahead of the others and dropped
his rifle onto the ground. Stripping off his body armor and pack, he
dropped them beside the rifle after removing his shirt. He glanced over at Clark.
Get ready, he said. Clark nodded, and Gregel unzipped the sides
of his tactical boots and kicked them off, and when he turned back toward
the trees, there was a snarl and a growl that sounded, and it
echoed across the open water. This time, Gregel answered the snarl with one
of his own as he began to change. He had no more than roared
when more than a dozen of the panther like creatures exploded from the trees and
raced toward them. Gregel was still shifting form when Clark took aim and shot
the first one in the chest with a fletching brown The silver, nitrate and
magnesium tip punched deep into the creature's chest before igniting. Shrieking in pain,
the beasts fell to the ground, writhing in agony. The others opened fire,
and the special rounds that the team used had devastating effect. Creatures had
been used to the normal rounds used by the Germans, and they were not
prepared for tima Odin's modified rounds designated to fight monsters. Four the creatures fell,
screaming and dying before they had covered more than ten yards, and to
their right, six more exploded from the trees and raced toward them. Clark
pivoted to the right and engaged the creatures. Raven joined him while the others
engaged in the larger force. As the beasts raced toward them, Clark and
Raven managed to kill three of them. The remaining three dove at them.
One was caught in the air by greygel and slammed to the ground with enough
force that they all felt it shake their legs. The bolt locked back on
Clark's AA twelve. As the beasts leaped at him, Raven flipped her weapon
from semi to auto and put a long burst into the creature that was bearing
down on her. The other creature took Clark to the ground in a flash
of teeth and claws. Clark managed to get an AA twelve between him and
the snapping jaws of the beast, but he felt the claws, digging into
his armor, seeking the soft flesh beneath. Releasing his grip with his right
hand, he continued to push the weapon into the beast's face with his left
hand. His right hand went to his belt and he grabbed the handle of
the gunner's mate, and, yanking it free, he drove it deep into
the beast's chest, just below its left arm. He scored three deep steps
before it pushed away from him, blood fountaining from its side, and the
beast put its hand to the wound and looked at the crimson fluid that was
now dripping from it, and Clark could see the wound was healing, but
it was still losing a lot of blood. The knife was still protruding from
the beast's rib cage. Slowly, it pulled the blade out and tossed it
aside, growling low at Clark. There was a gurgling and the growl,
and he knew he'd hit along. It might still heell, but it was
going to take time, and the wound had to hurt like a bastard.
Briefly, he considered reaching for his pistol, but he knew as soon as
he drew it, the beast would attack. He also considered that the faster
they burned through their AMMO, the sooner they would be all but defenseless.
It would close the distance quickly, and he realized he might not have time
to get off around before it bore him back to the ground, and the
creature's ears laid back against his head and it snarled at him, extending its
claws from its hand. All right, motherfucker, said Clark, if that's
how you want it, He reached back with both hands and pulled the bounty
and the boarding axe, and with the axe in his left hand and the
blade in his right, he shifted his weight onto the balls of his feet.
He knew that the attack was going to come at any moment. In
a flurry of snarls in speed, the beast launched itself at him. Clark
fainted to his left, and the creature tried to adjust, spinning to his
right. Clark slashed out with the axe and blade, and he felt claws
tear through the fabric on his back and heard them scrape against his trauma plate.
His blades drew blood. The axe cut a deep wound into the beast
left bicep, and the bounty slashed a nasty wound into the creature's abdomen.
Clark rushed at the beast, and it jumped back to avoid the attack.
It landed calf deep in water, and shock appeared on the creature's face.
Clark knew they were trying to avoid the water, but didn't expect the sharkmen
to have followed them into the other lake, but he was wrong. The
water exploded behind the panther creature as it tried to leap away to safety,
but the sharkman caught it just as it was clearing the water. In a
last ditch effort to avoid being dragged into the water, the beast locked a
vise like grip on Clark's ankle and attempted to either pull itself free or drag
him along with it. Fuck that snapped, Clark slashing downward with the bounty
and removing the beast's arm at the elbow. Clark watched as the beast was
dragged back into the water, blood churning in the white foam where it was
fountaining from a severed arm. In the span of two heartbeats, the struggle
was over, and the panther creature vanished below the surface and didn't come back
up. The sharks are in this lake, too, roared Clark, turning
back to the fight. Stay out of the water. When he looked back
at the battle, only three of the cat creatures were remaining, and they
were bloodied as they tried to escape back into the trees. Only one made
it. Gregel caught one and slammed into it with the force of a runaway
semi truck, driving it into the ground and sinking its teeth into the beast's
throat in a fountain of blood and flesh and bone. He tore the beast's
head off with its teeth, and Valkyrie had finished the other a quick shot
to the back of its head. Clear yelled, Runstone Clear, echoed the
rest of the crew. Gregel stood and turned toward them. He was covered
with blood, and from the look of him, little of it was his
own. There was a feral look in his eyes as he studied them.
For a moment. Clark thought for a second that he was going to attack
them, but realized that his instincts were up and he had unleashed the wolf.
Perhaps for the first time in a long time, Gregel's chest heaved for
a few moments as he gulped down air, catching his breath and calming himself
down, the yellow light in his eyes faded and he sighed clear. He
growled. The power of that one word could be felt in their bones.
Clark knew it had to be some type of infrat sound, much like what
tigers do to their prey before they attack. He was suddenly extremely glad that
was on their side. I've got their set, rumbled Gregel. I can
track them now. If you can track them, said Clark, then we
can locate their home. I don't want to fight all of them with just
six of us. We get a location and then we'll task Team Uller to
take them out, agreed, said Gregel. Wait here and I'll follow the
creature. I'll make sure it doesn't know I'm there. When I have their
location, i'll meet you back here at the plane. To be careful,
said Clark. Locate them and get out of there, understood, said Gregel,
turning and heading into the trees. What do you want us to do
with these bodies, asked Runestone. Toss them in the water, said Clark.
Just don't get too close. Got you have, he replied Runstone.
Feeding time at the aquarium. Click the video on your screen for the next
part of this audio book. This has been co named Wild Hunt Operation Blood
Eagle. Written by Da Roberts, read to you by Cameron Buckner. Print
copyright by Da Roberts. Audio production copyright by Cameron Buckner. Reproduction of this
audio is prohibited in any form without written approval under the US copyright laws.
Stay tuned to the Dixie Cryptied podcast for more full length audio books.