Fanfiction: Hidden Truths - Part II

[rachel500]

For disclaimers and author's note see Part I.


Six hours of searching later and the tempers on all three men were frayed.

‘This is hopeless.’ Michael muttered. They’d checked the storage facilities and the lab closest to Zeus’ house to no avail. There was no sign of the FIRM’s director or the black van that took him.

‘We still have one location to check out, Michael.’ Hawke reminded him shortly. He rolled his shoulders and ignored the ache that had settled into his muscles from flying so long.

Michael glanced at the time display on the front electronics board and sighed. ‘How much longer until we get there?’

‘Another fifteen minutes at current speed.’ Dom said from the back of the cockpit.

‘We’re going to start losing the light soon.’ Michael observed.

An incoming transmission alarm sounded and Dom hit the buttons to connect them. Marella’s face looked back at them soberly.

‘The Committee wanted an update.’

Hawke’s lips thinned but he made no comment leaving Michael to respond.

‘We’re on our way to the last location now.’ Michael said. ‘The other three locations were clear.’

‘And if he’s not there?’ Marella asked.

‘Then we have a problem.’ Michael admitted.

‘Is there anything I can do?’ Marella asked.

‘Yeah,’ interrupted Dom before Michael could reply, ‘pray!’

Michael turned and shot Dom a dirty look which only had the engineer pulling a face at him. The spy turned back to the video monitor. ‘We’ll contact you as soon as we have something more, Marella.’

‘OK, sir.’ Marella pushed her black curly hair over her shoulder and leaned forward. ‘Caitlin told me to let you know Angelina’s doing fine at the cabin.’

‘Good.’ Michael breathed a sigh of relief. He said a brief goodbye to Marella and disconnected the link. He was beginning to learn how Hawke had felt when the pilot had looked Le; a boy he’d believed was his nephew, for a time. Le was living with his mother in Seattle now but Michael knew before the mother and son had been reunited, Hawke had struggled to cope with the demands of being a single parent. Michael wanted to raise his daughter though and he was determined to make it work.

‘Angelina will be fine at the cabin.’ Hawke said glancing across the cockpit and seeing the worry on Michael’s face. ‘Caitlin’ll take good care of her.’

‘I know.’ Michael sighed and looked back across at the pilot. ‘You know Angelina’s in love with Tet.’

‘He’s good with kids.’ Hawke said as he adjusted their course a little.

‘She’s already dropping hints about puppies and Christmas.’

There was an indulgent note in Michael’s voice that had Hawke smiling inwardly. He had an idea that Angelina would be finding a warm bundle of fur under the tree on Christmas morning.

‘So what dog are you getting her?’ Dom asked echoing Hawke’s thoughts.

‘I didn’t say I was getting her a dog.’ Michael said crossly.

‘Please.’ Dom teased. ‘You have indulgent daddy written all over you.’

‘She’s been through a lot.’ Michael pointed out. ‘She’s still having nightmares about seeing her aunt getting shot.’

Hawke winced. He’d been unable to prevent the death of Angelina’s aunt when he’d saved the little girl.

Michael saw Hawke tense and sighed. ‘It wasn’t your fault, Hawke.’

The pilot looked at Michael for a moment but remained silent.

‘You know you could try a night light.’ Dom suggested. ‘My daughter Sally had one for years and it worked like a charm. Always made her feel safe.’

Michael glanced back. He’d forgotten the older man had lost his daughter the year before. He felt a sudden wave of empathy; he’d only been a father for a week and couldn’t imagine how he would survive if anything were to happen to Angelina. His voice was gruff with emotion as he thanked Dom for the suggestion.

‘Of course, when you get her the dog, that’ll make her feel safe.’ Hawke noted dryly.

Michael stared at the pilot until Hawke glanced across and met his eyes. The spy caved under the steady, knowing blue gaze. ‘OK,’ he admitted, ‘I’m getting her a dog for Christmas.’

‘Something fancy, I bet,’ laughed Dom.

‘Nah,’ Hawke disagreed, ‘I’m betting he had Marella do some research on the best type of dog for a young girl.’ He smiled as Michael squirmed next to him. ‘Labrador, right?’

Michael crossed his arms. ‘I’m glad you both find this amusing.’

‘He’s right?’ Dom asked his voice filled with mirth.

‘It’s a chocolate Labrador.’ Michael acknowledged reluctantly.

‘Chocolate?’ Dom chuckled. ‘Ah, those white suits of yours are going to take a beating.’ He punched in a scan. ‘Coming up on that last location now, String. I’m running surveillance.’

The last Solartech lab was a sprawling complex of buildings and grounds. Their hearts sank a little; it was a large area to cover and they were running out of time.

Hawke eased up and hovered at a safe distance above the main building. ‘Anything?’ He asked impatiently.

‘Cars…a truck…bingo.’ Dom adjusted the image on his screen, zooming in to confirm what he’d seen. ‘The van is parked in the South parking lot.’

‘Scan the buildings, Dom. Let’s see if we can pick up on anything.’ Hawke ordered.

‘Scanning.’ Dom confirmed.

‘This is Solartech’s spy plane facility.’ Michael noted bringing up the information on the upgraded front monitor. ‘There are five outbuildings alongside the main lab.’

‘I’m picking up a lot of shielding, String.’ Dom said trying another scan. ‘The scans are bouncing off the walls - literally.’

‘Dammit! I should have realised it earlier.’ Michael said. ‘These facilities were specially built to repel scans, radar, ultrasonic, heat detection, everything because it needs to protect its unique technology. What better place to hide someone than in these high security buildings?’

‘We’re going to have to go in on foot then,’ mused Hawke peering at the ground speculatively. It was lucky it was dusk, he thought. They’d have some cover at least.

‘Hmnph.’ Dom muttered. ‘There’s an electric fence. I’ve picked up on three security patrols already and those buildings are alarmed.’

‘Can you tap into the security system?’ Hawke asked.

Dom sighed. ‘I can try.’ He attempted a connection which failed and tried again. ‘Hey, I think it’s working.’ He swallowed a little nervously. Airwolf’s computers had seemingly extrapolated what he’d been attempting and had automatically taken over. Lines of code zipped by on the monitor until it suddenly flashed and a menu appeared. ‘I’m in.’

‘Good work.’ Michael commented.

Dom pressed his lips together and decided silence was the better part of valour.

‘OK. We’ll drop me inside the perimeter by that old hangar. It should hide us from view. I’ll check the outbuildings first. They’re more likely.’ Hawke said looking for a good spot to land.

‘I’ll come with you.’ Michael offered.

‘No.’ Hawke shook his head. ‘Dom’s going to have to fly; you’re going to have to stay on the computer and operate that security system so I can get in and out.’

Michael opened his mouth to argue and closed it again. Hawke would make better time on the ground than him.

The pilot lowered Airwolf carefully and lifted the heavy helmet off. He rubbed a hand through his hair, took the radio Dom handed him and checked his gun before giving Michael an encouraging nod and slipping out of the cockpit. Michael made his way to the engineer’s console and Dom took up Hawke’s previous position. He lifted them back off the ground watching as Hawke ran in a low crouch across the tarmac.

‘OK, Michael.’ Dom said. ‘Make sure Airwolf keeps a lock on Hawke’s bio-readings.’

‘Done.’ The spy confirmed. ‘He’s at the first building.’ He switched to the security system menu and accessed the building controls. ‘I’m ready.’

‘Hawke to Airwolf.’ The radio crackled with static.

‘We hear you, String.’ Dom responded.

‘I’m at the front door.’

Michael pressed the code into the computer. ‘Door is unlocked…now.’

Outside the building below them, Hawke tried the door and found it opened easily. He slipped inside. The building was a disused hangar. The wide open space was in darkness, filled with shadows and the dark outline of left equipment and junk. His eyes narrowed as they adjusted to the poor light and he crept forward carefully. There was a staircase on the far side of the building leading to an upper storey office. It was unlikely Zeus was being held there but he decided to check it out anyway. He scampered up the wooden stairs and opened the office door cautiously. He aimed his gun and checked it out. The room was filled with old folders of information; it smelt musty and damp. His nose wrinkled and he sneezed abruptly. He made his way back down to the hangar quickly.

‘This building’s clear.’ He radioed back to Airwolf.

‘There’s a patrol approaching. Hold your position.’ Michael responded.

‘Roger.’ Hawke ducked behind the door and held his gun ready.

His ears caught the rumble of a vehicle driving past and the sweep of headlights through the windows. There was another minute of silence before Michael gave him the all clear. Hawke made his way to the next outbuilding. They followed the same procedure, Michael opening the door and letting him in.

Hawke paused inside by the door when he entered and took stock of the building. Garage, he deduced. There were a number of flight support vehicles lined up and ready to use. Another dead end.

It was the same story with the third building which housed the back-up power generators for the lab and the fourth which was another hangar, this time filled with prototype spy planes and engineers running tests; Hawke had made a quick exit.

Hawke took a moment to rest outside the fifth building. He was breathing heavily from the run and leaned on the brick structure to catch his breath. The lights were on so somebody was inside. He hoped like hell it was going to be Zeus and his captors because he didn’t want to tackle the main lab.

Hawke waited for Michael’s signal and slipped through the back door. The bright white corridor with its squeaky cream linoleum floor sent a shiver down his spine and he gripped his gun a little tighter as he made his way along it. It intersected with another corridor and there was a door on the corner with a red and white sign declaring it a secure lab. He frowned at the electronic lock and pulled out his radio.

‘Airwolf, come in.’

The static crackle told its own story.

‘Damn!’ Hawke muttered. The walls were blocking the radio signals; the building had additional security compared to the others. He was debating his options when he heard voices approaching. He dived around the corner to hide.

‘….I don’t disagree that these test results are worrying, Dorothea but they still don’t prove anything.’ A male voice was protesting stridently.

‘They prove the remote system doesn’t work, Peter.’ A woman’s voice responded, presumably Dorothea thought Hawke.

‘All systems have glitches that’s why we have testing.’ Peter soothed.

‘These are more than glitches.’ Dorothea claimed. ‘I think I need to speak with Doctor Shellton about this.’

‘Come on, Dorothea. There’s no need to go to the lab director yet.’

Their footsteps halted in front of the secure lab and he peeked cautiously around the corner as the couple continued their discussion.

A tall blond man stood with his back to Hawke facing a beautiful African-American woman in her thirties; her smooth skin was the colour of dark mahogany and she had dark, almost black eyes that were pinned on the man in front of her challengingly. Her black hair was braided and caught in coils close to her head. Her face was tense with anxiety and he could clearly see her hands were fisted in the pockets of the white lab coat she wore over a simple blouse and skirt.

‘Peter, this is serious. These planes aren’t ready.’ Dorothea frowned. ‘To claim otherwise is fraudulent. We could all get into serious trouble.’

‘You’re making too much of this. Give it another week. We’ll have the problems worked out by then and this will all blow over.’

‘That’s what you said to me last week, Peter.’

‘You’re over-reacting.’

‘No, I’m not.’ Dorothea sighed. ‘I’m going to see Shellton.’ She made to turn away.

‘I can’t let you do that.’

Hawke’s eyes widened along with Dorothea’s as Peter pulled a gun and pointed it at her.

‘What are doing?’ Dorothea said aghast.

‘I can’t let you ruin this contract, Dorothea. It’s too important.’ Peter bit out. ‘I’m sorry.’

Hawke couldn’t stay out of it. As Peter went to pull the trigger, Hawke stepped out from behind the corner and slammed the butt of his gun into the other man’s head. Peter crumpled obligingly to the floor.

Dorothea gave a small cry and slapped her hands over her mouth. Her eyes wide open with shock.

‘Are you OK?’ Hawke asked.

She nodded.

His ears picked up on footsteps approaching. ‘We need to leave. Now.’

‘But…’ She gestured at Peter who was groaning and coming to on the floor.

Hawke grabbed hold of her arm and dragged her around the corner, hustling her down the corridor. He found an empty office and pushed her inside. He closed the door and moved her back into the shadows, motioning for her to be quiet as he took a position behind the door. There was shouting in the corridor and the sound of running footsteps. Mere moments later, they heard Peter’s voice as he walked by the door.

‘I don’t care what you do just find her.’

‘And what do you want me to do when I find her?’ The security guard asked.

‘Eliminate her.’ Peter confirmed.

Dorothea blanched and cowered back against the wall she was leaning on.

Hawke waited until the voices couldn’t be heard before turning to her. ‘Are you alright?’

‘I’m not sure.’ Dorothea admitted matching his low tone. She gave a nervous giggle. ‘My boss is trying to kill me and I seem to have been rescued by a thief.’ She shook her head and sobered abruptly. ‘Thank you. If you hadn’t….thank you.’

‘Don’t thank me yet.’ Hawke cautioned. ‘We still have to get out and for the record, I’m not a thief.’

‘So who are you and what are you doing here?’ She whispered.

‘Long story.’ Hawke said. His eyes raked over her. She was regaining her composure. ‘Why’s that guy all fired up to kill you?’

‘We won a contract to provide the government with a new spy plane capable of being controlled remotely long distance.’

‘So I heard.’ Hawke said keeping one ear cocked for trouble.

‘Only the remote system doesn’t work properly.’ Dorothea said. ‘You try and operate it outside a radius of a 100 kilometres and it fails.’

‘You want to report it.’

Dorothea nodded. ‘I think we can get it to work, just not in the timescales the government wants the planes operational.’

‘The timescales Solartech contracted for.’ Hawke deduced.

Dorothea nodded again. ‘I know the company will lose a lot of money but if we declare the planes are ready, our test results will be fraudulent.’ She sighed. ‘Peter’s been the director on the programme for a long time. I guess he figures he’ll lose his job if the problems with the planes are published.’

‘Do you have any proof?’

‘Yes. It’s all stored on computer. I just need to find a terminal and get a print out or a copy on computer disc.’

Hawke rubbed his chin. ‘I have a friend who can help you get the truth out.’ He sighed. ‘But I need to finish searching this building first.’ Something which had just got a lot harder with the security guards deployed to search for Dorothea.

‘What are you looking for?’ Dorothea asked. ‘Maybe I can help you.’

Hawke regarded silently for a long moment before he decided to tell her. ‘A man was kidnapped this morning. We tracked the van that took him here. I’ve searched the other outbuildings and there’s no sign of him which leaves this building and the main one. I can’t see them taking him in there.’

‘No,’ agreed Dorothea faintly. She sat down heavily on a chair. ‘I can’t believe this. I mean, I believe Peter’s gone a little overboard but kidnapping and for what reason?’

‘Can you think of anywhere they might be keeping him?’ Hawke said ignoring her question.

She thought for a moment before her eyes flickered to his. ‘The security department are located in the basement. None of the regular staff are allowed down there. If they’re keeping him anywhere, that’s probably it.’

‘Great.’ It would be like walking into a lion’s den, thought Hawke, particularly with Dorothea. He frowned. If he helped her, got her out to Airwolf…no, security would be swarming all over the place; there was no guarantee that he’d be able to return and get Zeus.

‘OK,’ Hawke said, ‘we’re going to go and find you a safe place to get the proof you need to back up your story. Then we’re going to the basement.’

Dorothea swallowed hard. ‘OK.’

‘Where’s the best place for you to get what you need?’ Hawke asked.

‘The secure lab.’ Dorothea said immediately. ‘It’s usually deserted at this time and I don’t think Peter would think of looking for me there.’

‘OK then that’s where we’ll head to.’ Hawke peeked out into the corridor; it was clear. He motioned for Dorothea to follow him and they made their way back to the secure lab door cautiously.

‘Let’s hope my access code still works.’ Dorothea muttered pressing the numbers into the keypad. The red light went to green and they both entered quickly.

The lab was almost in total darkness apart from the light of a computer monitor in the corner of the room. Hawke bolted the door from the inside as Dorothea reached for the light switch.

Hawke caught hold of her hand. ‘Can you do this without the light on?’ He asked.

She nodded and he let go of her. She walked swiftly to the computer console and accessed the data she needed. She pursed her lips and reached for a new disc. The computer flashed a message confirming the transfer was in progress. She turned and found Hawke at the door, his gun ready.

‘Are you nearly done?’ He asked.

‘Just another couple of minutes and the transfer will be complete.’ Dorothea said glancing around the lab, suddenly aware that it would be the last time she would be there.

‘I don’t think we’re going to have long.’ Hawke said worriedly.

‘Almost there.’ Dorothea tapped her fingers impatiently. The computer screen flashed. The transfer was complete. She hurriedly released the CD from the computer and slid it into the pocket of her white robe. ‘Done.’

Hawke breathed a sigh of relief. ‘Good.’ He reached for the bolt and froze as the handle of the door was tried and then a thud against the door as they tried to break through. He stepped away from the door. ‘Is there another way out of here?’

‘No.’ Dorothea said panicking. ‘That’s the only door.’ Loud bangs on the door sounded as the security guards continued to try to break it down.

‘They must have been alerted when you used the code.’ Hawke looked around the room and his eyes caught on the grille of an air vent in the top right corner of the far wall. He pushed a desk underneath it and climbed up, holding a hand out to help Dorothea onto the desk. He took a penknife from a zip compartment on his uniform and unscrewed the grille, grunting as he yanked it from the wall. He gave Dorothea a boost into the metal shaft and then followed her.

They shuffled down the metal tunnel on their knees and elbows, clunking along at the best pace they could. The shaft widened and Dorothea stopped to let Hawke come up alongside her.

‘Which way?’ He asked.

Dorothea pointed. ‘I think this will lead to a stairwell.’

Hawke moved forward and was pleased when he saw the grille in front of him. He unscrewed it before giving it a solid kick to send the metal flying. He looked down and frowned. It was a hell of a fall to the landing of the stairs below; a miscalculation and he’d break his neck. He eased out, sliding his body carefully backwards until he hung by his fingertips from the edge of the shaft. He let go and dropped to the floor below. He gestured for Dorothea to follow him.

She looked at the drop and swallowed as she copied his example. ‘What the hell am I doing?’ She muttered hanging by her fingertips. She closed her eyes and let go. Hawke helped catch her.

‘Come on.’ He started down the stairs to the basement with Dorothea behind him. They paused at a door which was again protected by an electronic code.

Hawke turned to Dorothea. ‘Do you…?’

‘No.’ Dorothea shook her head. ‘It’s an entirely different security code.’

Hawke scowled and scoured the door and the small hallway. Michael could get him through that door if the other man knew he was there. He needed something that would signal Michael. But how? The building was impenetrable. Hawke frowned. The security guards had discovered them in the secure lab by tracking Dorothea’s code…the system had to identify the codes; the same system that Airwolf’s computer was linked into…if he entered a code that Michael would recognise, maybe the other man would see it and know what Hawke was attempting; Michael would be able to release the door.…Hawke was already pressing the Airwolf security code into the keypad as he completed his reasoning.

‘What are you doing?’ Dorothea hissed.

‘Contacting a friend.’ Hawke said. ‘I hope.’ The door clicked open. ‘Thank you, Michael.’ He murmured and moved forward cautiously. Dorothea took a deep breath and followed him. There was a corridor beyond the door and they walked down it speedily, checking empty offices as they went. Hawke peered around the corner to the next corridor and sighed. A guard stood in front of a door. The young guy was wearing the same garb as the men who’d grabbed Zeus on the surveillance video.

Hawke frowned and turned to Dorothea. ‘I need you to distract the guard.’

‘How?’

‘Walk along the corridor as if you have the right to be there. Stop and talk to him. Get him to face the opposite direction to me and I’ll creep up behind him and…’

‘…knock him out like you did Peter?’

Hawke nodded.

‘I can’t do this!’ She hissed. ‘I’m an engineer not a soldier!’

Hawke took hold of her hand. ‘You’ll do fine, Dorothea.’

Dorothea sighed and nodded reluctantly. She straightened her shoulders and with another deep breath walked around the corner towards the guard.

Hawke watched as she did exactly as he had instructed. She was good, he thought as he crept up silently behind the man. The blow to the guard’s hard was swift and brutal. Hawke had used more force than he had with Peter; he’d needed to know the guard would stay down for a while.

He searched through the man’s pockets and found the key.

‘Stand back.’ Hawke instructed Dorothea who moved back down the corridor. He opened the door and entered with his gun poised. A shot rang out and hit the plaster by the door. Hawke dived and rolled, taking aim at the shooter. He took him out with a shot to the head. His eyes went to the man blindfolded and gagged lying on the floor, hands and feet tied together with rope. Zeus.

‘Zeus. It’s Stringfellow Hawke. I’m here to get you out.’ Hawke withdrew his penknife again and sliced the bonds tying Zeus’ hands together. As soon as he was free, Zeus reached for the gag and the blindfold and glared at Hawke as the pilot sliced the ropes binding his feet. His dark eyes zoomed to the body on the floor.

‘Can you walk?’ Hawke asked.

‘Yes I can walk.’ Zeus bit out.

Hawke’s eyebrow quirked upward at the angry tone but he put his penknife away and stood up. ‘Then let’s go.’

Zeus staggered to his feet and Hawke resisted the urge to offer him help, turning instead to lead the way out the door. He walked back into the corridor and froze. Peter stood there with a gun to Dorothea’s head. Security guards were positioned either side of the corridor.

Zeus came to stand beside Hawke. ‘Some rescue this is.’

Hawke shot him a look.

‘Put your gun down. Slowly.’ Peter ordered.

Hawke complied. ‘You don’t have to do this, Peter.’

‘Shut up.’ Peter thrust Dorothea at him and Hawke caught her as she stumbled across the short expanse of floor. He squeezed her shoulder comfortingly.

Peter glared at them. ‘I don’t know who you people are but you’re…’ A shot cut across his words and his eyes went wide as he jerked with the shock of the bullet entering him. Hawke yanked Dorothea to the floor trusting Zeus still had enough instincts to do the same. He grabbed his gun and shot out the guards behind them. The security guards behind Peter had whirled to respond to the threat and they both lurched backwards onto the floor as they were hit.

Hawke helped a horrified Dorothea to her feet; Zeus staggered back to his and all three of them turned to face Michael who stepped from his position behind the corridor wall to greet them, the gun still in his hands.

‘Thanks.’ Hawke said.

Michael shrugged. ‘Dominic decided you were taking too long.’ His good eye gleamed with humour before it landed on Zeus and sobered. ‘We should leave.’ He said hastily.

‘Good idea.’ Hawke agreed.

Michael’s eye slid to Dorothea and back to Hawke. He gave Hawke a questioning look.

‘Dorothea’s with me.’ Hawke said with a finality that allowed for no arguments. ‘Come on.’ He led the way back up the stairs and to the back door. As soon as they were clear of the building, he radioed Dom.

‘Where the hell have you been?’ Dom yelled.

‘Busy.’ Hawke said shortly. ‘We need a pick up. Now.’

‘On my way.’ Dom said.

A split second later Hawke heard Airwolf’s eerie howl.

‘What is that?’ Dorothea asked.

Zeus looked at Hawke. ‘You’re allowing a civilian inside her?’

‘I’m allowing you, aren’t I?’ Hawke snapped.

Airwolf circled and landed beside them. Hawke put a hand on Dorothea’s back and pushed her firmly toward the helicopter. Zeus and Michael followed keeping low to avoid the rotors.

Hawke kept the door open as Dorothea and then Zeus climbed into the back of Airwolf to join Dom. Michael got into the seat at the front and Hawke closed the door on him. He saw the patrols racing toward them and slid over Airwolf’s nose to climb into his own seat. He hurriedly put the helmet on and raised Airwolf off the ground as the patrols got close enough to try and shoot at them. The bullets ricocheted off the bullet proof glass.

‘Turn off our wing lights.’ Hawke ordered taking Airwolf further up into the dark sky effectively disappearing into the black.

‘They’re deploying some kinda plane, String.’ Dom punched in the identity scan. ‘It’s reading as an unmanned drone.’

Dorothea read the results over Dom’s shoulder. ‘It’s one of the spy planes.’

‘String,’ Dom’s voice was almost panicked, ‘that plane is packed with explosive! If it hits us…’

‘Combat mode.’ Hawke’s lips firmed and he sent Airwolf into a steep ascent, began evasion manoeuvres.

‘Combat mode.’ Dom repeated and pressed the buttons to deploy the guns and the ADF pods.

‘You have missiles and chain guns ready.’ Michael stated setting them up on his console.

‘That plane is all over us.’ Dom warned.

‘Redeye.’

‘Redeye.’ Michael hit the missile selection from his position at the counter-measures seat.

Hawke sent Airwolf into a dive and slipped back up behind the chasing plane. He snapped the visor down on the helmet. The automatic target blinked red in his sight. It zeroed in on the plane in front and locked. Hawke fired. It was a brilliant explosion and he ascended quickly to avoid the burning steel and debris.

Hawke turned in the direction of the FIRM headquarters. ‘You’d better call Marella.’ He said to Michael. ‘I’d rather not have a shoot out with the FIRM’s defence systems.’

‘Right.’ Michael allowed dryly. He pressed the buttons to connect them.

‘Sir?’ Marella’s anxious face appeared in the video link.

‘We have Zeus and we’re on our way back to the FIRM.’

‘Understood, sir. I’ll make the arrangements and let the Committee know the good news.’

‘Thank you, Marella.’ Michael disconnected the link.

Dom’s eyes slid to the woman squashed between him and Zeus who was looking over his shoulder at the computer monitor with blatant interest. ‘Excuse me, ma’am, but if you don’t mind me asking, who are you?’

‘Good question.’ Zeus muttered glaring at the back of Hawke’s helmet.

‘Stop glowering at me Zeus.’ Hawke said without turning around. ‘Dom, this is Dorothea. She helped me find Zeus and she has a computer disc that Zeus needs to see.’

Dorothea reached into the pocket of her white robe and pulled out the gold disc. Dom took it from her with a gap-toothed smile. ‘Thank you.’

‘You’re welcome.’ Dorothea smiled at him. ‘This is an amazing machine.’

‘Yeah, she is.’ Dom agreed happily as he brought up the information on his monitor. He turned it toward Zeus who stared at it for a moment before the information started to register.

His dark eyes shot to Dorothea’s. ‘This data is accurate?’

‘Yessir.’ Dorothea nodded. ‘The planes are not ready to fly.’

‘You’d be willing to testify to that?’ Zeus asked.

‘Yes.’ She said.

Zeus nodded and held out his hand. ‘I’m Zeus.’

‘That’s your real name?’ Dorothea said shaking his hand.

‘Codename.’ Zeus allowed. ‘But I am pleased to make your acquaintance Dorothea.’

Michael’s eye flickered across the cockpit to Hawke and returned to the dark star-studded sky in front of them. ‘You know, Zeus, it’s going to be a close call getting you to Washington for your meeting in front of the Senate Oversight Committee.’

‘I’ll need to take Miss…?’

‘Connolly.’ Dorothea supplied.

‘…with me too.’ Zeus noted.

Michael’s good eye slid to Hawke.

‘No.’ The pilot said firmly.

‘Hawke…’

‘I said no, Michael.’ Hawke rolled his shoulders.

‘It’s only a round trip to Washington.’

‘We’ve barely got enough fuel to get us to the FIRM.’ Hawke pointed out.

‘So I’ll arrange a fuel pick up.’ Michael promised.

‘I said no.’ Hawke said firmly.

‘Of course it’s your decision.’ Michael said cutting across whatever angry response Zeus was about to make. ‘And besides I guess you’re probably too tired to make the journey after flying all day.’

Hawke’s eyes slid to him and he gave a humourless laugh. ‘I’m not falling for that.’

‘What?’ Michel said looking back at him innocently.

Hawke sighed and turned back to the front. ‘I said no.’

‘Like I said it’s your decision, Hawke. We’ll take good care of Miss Connolly.’ Michael kept quiet and hoped Zeus would do the same. He counted down in his head figuring it wouldn’t take long for Hawke to change his mind.

Hawke shifted in his seat and frowned. It wasn’t his responsibility to get Zeus to Washington, he grumbled to himself. Hadn’t he done enough rescuing the guy? He sighed. OK, so he did feel bad about just handing Dorothea over to the FIRM, and particularly to Zeus. ‘Fine.’ He muttered. ‘I’ll take them to Washington.’

Dom hid a smile turning to something on his console.

‘I’m sorry?’ Michael said. ‘Did you say something?’

‘Don’t push it, Michael.’ Hawke snapped.

Michael held up a hand in apology. ‘I appreciate it.’

Hawke sighed. ‘You’ll contact Caitlin? Let her know what’s happening.’

‘Of course.’ Michael confirmed.

‘FIRM dead ahead, String.’ Dom said.

‘Request an approach.’ Hawke ordered.

They came into land on the helipad.

‘I have to organise a few things.’ Zeus said gruffly as the rotors slowed and the engines powered down.

‘We’ll wait here.’ Hawke said. His blue eyes moved to the guards on the opposite side of the roof. He didn’t trust the FIRM not to try and make a grab for the helicopter.

‘If you could come with me Miss Connolly. We’ll need to get all your details and a copy of that information.’ Zeus said turning to the lady in question.

Dorothea nodded and Dom handed her the computer disc back.

Hawke opened his own door to let some air into the cockpit as Michael disembarked and helped Zeus and Dorothea from the back of the cockpit. The two of them were immediately greeted by members of Zeus’ staff. Hawke watched as they disappeared towards the elevators.

Michael walked round to Hawke’s side and leaned in through the open door. ‘Thank you.’

Hawke slumped back in his chair. ‘Don’t mention it. Ever.’

Michael nodded and tapped the side of the doorway. ‘I’ll be in touch.’

Part 3

Michael headed across the roof limping a little and didn’t comment as Marella fell in step beside him. Neither of them looked behind at the sight of Airwolf sat on the roof the FIRM; it was a bittersweet moment for both of them.

Marella broke the silence first. ‘You look very smart in that uniform, sir.’

Michael shot her a look. ‘Hmmm.’

‘Remind me,’ Marella said as they got in the elevator together and the doors started to close, ‘who decided on the lilac?’

Michael’s gaze snapped to her and he wagged a finger at her. ‘Not funny, Marella.’

‘Yes sir.’ Marella agreed.

Michael pulled at the uniform a little, suddenly self-conscious. ‘We need to call Caitlin and tell her Hawke will be delayed. It’s going to take him a while to get to Washington and back even in Airwolf.’

‘I’ll call her.’

‘Tell her I’ll be by to pick up Angelina tomorrow morning in time to take her to school.’

Marella nodded. ‘Yes sir.’

‘Oh and Marella,’ Michael said as they exited the elevator at their floor, ‘you’d better run a full check on Dorothea Connolly.’

‘Full check, yes sir.’

‘And find out where Zeus took her. I want a word before she gets back into Airwolf.’

‘Yes sir.’

‘And can you organise a wardrobe of clothes for her?’ Michael added as they entered the outer office. ‘I’m sure she doesn’t want to testify to the Oversight Committee in what she’s wearing.’

‘This is to get back at me for the crack about the uniforms isn’t it?’ Marella said before Michael could give her another task.

Michael gave a small smile as another one of his aides handed him his mail and he headed into his office without replying. He showered, redressed in a clean white suit and caught up with Marella before heading to Zeus’ office. He swept past Zeus’ assistant and entered the other man’s office with the briefest of cursory knocks.

‘Archangel.’ Zeus didn’t look up from placing folders into a leather briefcase.

Michael shut the door behind him. ‘I want some answers, Zeus.’

‘Archangel, this isn’t the right time. I’d like to get to Washington before Hawke changes his mind.’ Zeus stuffed the last folder in his briefcase.

Michael crossed his arms and held his position. ‘Why did the Federal Intelligence Agency try to prevent you from testifying to the Committee this morning?’

‘We don’t know that they did.’ Zeus said dismissively.

‘Zeus.’ Michael’s voice was implacable.

Zeus sighed and rested his hands on his briefcase as he regarded the other man. ‘The rumour is that the Senate Committee is looking to reduce the operating costs of the intelligence agencies.’

‘I found that out myself.’ Michael said.

‘Did you find out the way they are considering reducing costs is to amalgamate two or more of the smaller agencies?’ Zeus bit out.

Michael blinked. ‘No.’ He said. ‘I didn’t know that.’

Zeus sighed. ‘Every agency is jockeying for position.’

‘I can imagine.’ Michael murmured. ‘Are we specifically at risk?’

Zeus hesitated and then nodded. ‘My sources say it was us or the FIA who were to be targeted, possibly both organisations.’

‘Are we at risk because of Airwolf?’ Michael asked bracing himself for the answer. ‘Is that why I was kept out of the loop?’

‘As much as I would like to blame the whole thing on Airwolf, no.’ Zeus picked up his briefcase. ‘In fact, as much as I hate to admit it, Hawke and that machine are one of the reasons why we still have a place at the table.’ He sighed. ‘We’ve had too many failures, Michael and not enough successes. Our operatives are losing ground to the CIA, the NSA and the Company abroad and to the FBI at home. We’re not the force we once were.’

‘What can I do to help?’ Michael asked.

‘Forget what I’ve told you and focus on your work. That’s the reason why I kept you out of the loop. I don’t want you or anybody else here distracted by this.’ Zeus said. ‘Now. I have to go and put the FIA out of action with Miss Connolly’s help.’

‘I’ll have someone escort her up.’ Michael offered.

Zeus nodded. ‘You’re intending to offer her a job?’

Michael nodded and opened the door to let Zeus leave. ‘Marella checked her out. She has an impressive resume.’

‘Good.’ Zeus moved past him. ‘I’ll see you upstairs.’

Michael left Zeus’ office and made his way back to his own. Marella had tracked down Dorothea and she was waiting for him.

Dorothea rose to her feet as he entered. He noticed that she had also changed into a new outfit. The simple blue pant suit complemented her colouring. ‘Miss Connolly. I won’t keep you.’ He greeted her with a firm handshake. ‘I’d like to take the opportunity to thank you for coming forward and helping us.’ He sat down in his leather chair and waved her into an armchair.

‘Well, Hawke did save my life.’

‘He has a knack for doing things like that.’ Michael said smiling at her. ‘When you get back from Washington, I’d like you to consider coming and working for me.’

Dorothea stared at him. ‘You’re kidding.’

‘I rarely kid.’ Michael stated. ‘You’re a good aeronautical engineer and I have the perfect project for you. I don’t need an answer now but if you could think about it I’d be grateful.’

‘I’ll definitely think about it. Thank you.’ Dorothea got to her feet.

‘Thank you.’ Michael nodded at Marella to escort her back to Airwolf. He poured himself a large glass of bourbon from the bar in his office and sat back behind his desk scowling. He had imagined that the Senate Oversight Committee might have been doing many things in regards to their review; amalgamating the FIRM with another agency wasn’t one of them. He sipped his drink and leaned back tiredly.

If the FIRM was taken over by another agency his own position was precarious, Michael realised. The Airwolf project was his ace but in many ways it was also his joker. Airwolf had made him many enemies within the FIRM itself and he only controlled the helicopter inasmuch as Hawke would accept the missions Michael gave to him in return for finding his brother. Anxiety gnawed at his gut and Michael took a deep breath. He put his drink on the table and got out of his chair to stare sightlessly through the windows, his hands deep in the pockets of his white slacks. He understood why Zeus wanted to keep the information under wraps; it was distracting. If the whole agency knew, they’d all be too busy trying to consolidate their positions to focus on their job; keeping the US and her allies safe. Well, he wouldn’t let it distract him. Michael turned back to his desk; he had work to do.
Continued in Part III.