Blood Eagle FULL AUDIOBOOK Part 2 of 4

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.