“Igor’s fishing camp is located on the Skeena River before it intersects the Babina River. The area is remote and accessed by floatplanes coming out of Ketchikan or Prince Rupert. We have the exact location of the lodge and have determined where we can hide supplies, weapons and gear,” said Orson.
“As previously discussed, I arranged for a Cessna with floats. We still plan to put down on the river close to our supplies. Based on the new location information, we need to prepare for a two-click walk to the lodge,” said Sparks.
“The Canadian Wildlife Enforcement will not be a problem. We are remote and they are spread thin as we suspected. We have decided to have the plane drop us and then pick us up. I have contacted a cleaner that we use at the agency to remove the bodies. They will also remove shell casings and evidence. Obviously, they can’t get everything, but there won’t be much for the authorities to work with,” said Sparks.
“We have spoken with Paul and he is ready for the trip. We still don’t know what to expect from Petloki, but think he will show up with Igor as planned,” said Herb.
“Orson can work with Ryan to get our false passports and documentation in place. Our gear is already here so we need to have a run through and make plans to depart in two weeks. Any questions?” said Stryker.
“Only a comment. We will need to dress as fishermen from that area so be thinking about what you each will wear,” said Orson.
“Anything else? OK, get with Orson,” replied Herb.
42
New York City, New York
2016
Stryker, Sparks and Morgan arrived in New York by noon and went directly to the Tavern on the Green. They figured they might capture a tail but after driving different routes and double-backing, nothing materialized.
While they waited for food, Dirk asked Stryker to point out where he and Rachel had been seated. Jake pointed to the yellow tape, which Dirk acknowledged. He then asked Jake to take him back detail by detail as to what happened. He seemed interested in the bullets fired after the first shot. Stryker admitted there could have been only one additional shot, everything happened fast. With the approaching storm, he could not be certain.
After they paid the bill for lunch, Dirk went to the table with the yellow crime scene tape and took a series of pictures. He then canvassed the patio for bullet strikes. He took one picture but it was marginal.
Moving into the park, they found a tree with more yellow tape. Evidently, someone believed the shooter used the tree. Looking up, Dirk saw a large branch broken and bent down. On the tree trunk were clear markings of boot spikes used for climbing. Dirk took more pictures and roamed the area looking for brass casings but found none.
Spark’s called Riley, told her about the shooting, and asked her to help him get the forensics from NYPD. Since Rachel might have been a target, the FBI could invoke jurisdiction, however if NYPD would share details the FBI would stay out. In most cases, NYPD was good at cooperating. Riley called back with information in less than an hour.
“Well Riley that was quick. Did you threaten them?” asked Sparks.
“No, I spoke with a friend of mine and they shared everything. They don’t have much but it appears the shooter used a tree and fell twenty feet to the ground. Some witnesses think a wind gust caused him to fall. The investigators believe he broke a large branch on his way down and was injured. These same witnesses saw him hit the ground along with a rifle. They said he got up and grabbed the rifle and ran toward the rear of the park. They said his left arm was twisted at an odd angle. Description wise, he was a white male, 5' 10" to 6' 1", wearing a dark baseball cap, dark pants and windbreaker. He wore boots, had gloves and a dark backpack. The rifle was also black and had a scope with a sling. Police found two cartridge cases and several bullet fragments all 5.56 NATO. The witnesses could not be certain but they described the rifle barrel as long. The shooter may have used a suppressor. The police searched the area but located no suspicious vehicles or persons. The case appears to be at a dead end and since no one was injured I doubt much else will be investigated,” said Riley.
“Riley, you are fantastic and indeed my best niece. We need you to finish helping Kelly and come join us. The CIA has a job waiting on you. Thanks again, I love you,” said Sparks.
“Love you back and remember, I am your only niece,” she giggled, hanging up.
_____
Back in the condo, the men talked about what they had learned from Riley and all agreed the shooter was probably no longer a threat, at least for awhile. Stryker made a decision to inform the others about Rachel’s new job. Sparks and Morgan were stunned at the news and wanted to know when the change might be official. Stryker told them possibly within the next year and doubted it was widely known.
“If you had not told me anything about Rachel, I would never believe the shooter was one of ours. But knowing the present administration’s hatred of Israel and love affair with Iran, I now think differently. I look at one piece of evidence and think it might be our own because of the cartridge. I would have used a Russian rifle and different caliber. Certainly not a NATO 5.56 round. The shooter did not even have enough sense to use the identical .223 round found in civilian abundance. I’m thinking DOD provided the shooter and floated the rumor of a European killer to cover an opportunity to remove her before she becomes director. Remember, the CIA likes Israel and is a silent partner but not the DOD. The asshole at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. and some of his ass kissing generals are probably responsible. Soon, the administration will be out of office. The president’s wife is Iranian and this would be their last attempt to alter the future,” said Dirk.
“Think about it, Rachel’s father was assassinated by an Iranian, who twenty years later shot her and you, Jake. Couple that with the hatred of Israel by this administration and it’s clear the last person on earth they want named as director of Mossad would be Rachel Cohen. If it is true, those responsible for an attempt on her life just put targets on their backs forever. Remember the Olympics in 1972. Everyone responsible was hunted down and killed,” continued Dirk.
“I agree with Dirk, DOD has an off budget Black Ops and intelligence group. We have known about them since they were formed in the 1990’s. Currently, they are commanded by a former general and member of the joint chiefs, a political hack named Hal Hendricks. I bet our shooter is one of his men,” said Sparks.
“Where do we find this guy?” asked Stryker.
“I don’t know exactly but I’m told he has a place near Bozeman, Montana. I heard he spends time in DC, which is consistent with his shadow position,” said Sparks.
“Dirk, nobody knows what you do. Sparks and Herb don’t know much other than you are my trusted friend. How you are paid is a mystery. In fact, you are a ghost to the rest of the intelligence world. So now, we need to speak privately. Ryan, why don’t you go to the kitchen and make some more coffee while I visit with Dirk,” said Stryker.
“Ok, here’s the deal. I think you may be right about DOD but we don’t know for certain. We have known each other many years and have nearly died together. I think you know me and much like yourself, we don’t take kindly to people trying to kill us. I want you to scorch the earth with this general and determine every person involved in targeting Rachel. Burn down his ranch or blow it up, I don’t care. If you think he needs to live to send a message, then do what you want. Make no mistake about it my friend, we are declaring war on these bastards,” said Stryker.
“I got it boss.”
“Stop calling me boss. We are friends and we work together. I value your opinions more than anyone else when it comes to serious issues. Now start over and refer to me as Jake.”
“Sorry, did not mean to upset you. We ok?”
“Golden, and remember both of us are taking a big risk and I don’t want you in harm’s way unless we both agree. Also, I’m personally invested and might not think clearly so keep me in line.” said Stryker.
“I appreciate you laying it out and I acce
pt the risks. These people have been getting away with ruining lives for too long. I am all in for this without reservations. It sounds like I have full authority to do what I think best based on the conditions at hand,” committed Dirk.
“Yes, and you will have all the equipment, transportation and backup you need. Sparks will take care of that, he just won’t know details of the mission. I would like to do this personally but I’m on another operation to kill Russians. You need to get this done quickly because I need your help to move on Ali when I get back. I should return in a week if all goes well. What do you think?” asked Stryker.
“I think for me this is a piece of cake. I’ll let you know when it’s done,” replied Dirk.
“Oh, I plan to tell Rachel, Sara and Orson, so feel free to speak with them. Orson is your lifeline and can get information that you need,” said Stryker.
“I’m on it Jake, don’t worry.”
“Dirk, are you flying back to Washington with me and Sparks?”
“Yeah, if you’re going soon that would be great.”
Stryker and Sparks followed Dirk from the condo and they headed for the airport. Upon reaching altitude, Stryker called to see if Rachel and Sara had arrived back in Washington and if they could meet him when he got back. Rachel told him they were ready to meet and be updated.
I hope Rachel is happy, for I just unleashed hell on earth. These smug bastards have no idea, smiled Stryker.
43
Washington, DC
2016
Stryker drove to the Israeli Embassy and met with Rachel and Sara, who had been brought from New York last night. He briefed them on the shooting and the belief that Rachel was the intended target because of her dislike for the Iranians. He also let them know that the shooter was injured when falling from the tree and the threat reduced.
Rachel previously told Stryker that Sara knew about Daniel’s desire for her to take his place so Stryker was able to speak freely. He told them he had to let Sparks, Herb and Morgan know about the promotion, because without the knowledge, processing what happened and why would be difficult. Fortunately, telling them helped resolve the what and why. He spoke in detail about Dirk’s thoughts.
“From the shooter’s description, weapon and rounds fired, everyone believes the DOD’s secret Black Ops team was involved. It is no secret that the administration hates Israel. There is one retired general that runs the DOD Black Ops team. He is retired General Halford Hendricks. When he was active he always voted against Israel, so it’s not a stretch to believe his group would provide a shooter to make certain Rachel Cohen, a hawk against Iran, would never be Director of Mossad,” said Stryker.
Rachel was fuming, as was Sara, her closest friend. Stryker felt the tension and reminded them there was good news. Both looked at him as if he had lost his mind until he said the magic words.
“I have sent them a very private message and one they will never forget.”
“As we speak, your friend and mine, ‘Dirk the Dagger Morgan’, has taken this to task and I will tell you all hell is fixing to happen,” said Stryker.
Both women smiled and asked when they would know something and Stryker told them in the next two weeks. He then told them they had a choice of staying in the safety of their embassy or getting involved in two operations chasing Igor and Ali. They quickly wanted in on the action and asked for details. Stryker broke down both operations and assigned Sara to the Ali op working with Herb and Dirk. His reasons were that Sara nearly died at Ali’s hands, but more importantly, she knew how to operate large boats. Rachel would take Herb’s place, giving him responsibility for the Ali operation. Sara liked the possibility of working with Dirk and Herb while Rachel wanted to kill Igor and avenge Daniel’s family.
44
Jacksonville, Florida
2016
Charles Short checked into the Omni Hotel on the Riverwalk, looking forward to the conference being held with speakers from all over the United States. Charles Short was speaking about the looming rise of violent Islam. Short was considered an expert in the field and a popular syndicated columnist.
Short traveled most of the time when not writing. He lived in rural Virginia but close enough to participate in the ever-changing Washington, DC political arena. It seemed the new attacks on the media had changed the dialogue. His warnings and pronouncements drew larger audiences with fewer critics.
Charles turned in early knowing he would have a full day with the conference starting at 8:00 a.m. Fortunately, his part of the program was not until after lunch. He still wanted to hear the other speakers in case he might need to tweak his remarks.
Charles awakened early, showered and dressed for the day. His dark blue suit and red tie blended with his gray hair. He had arranged to meet one of the other speakers for breakfast and catch up on various topics. He had not seen his friend, Dr. Mohammed Jobrani for six months, both had been busy writing and speaking. Dr. Jobrani was a well-known member of Islam and a powerful voice against radical jihads’.
Both men arrived at the hotel restaurant at the same time and met with traditional hugs and general banter. Dr. Jobrani was scheduled to speak just prior to Charles, mostly about the Islamic view of the One World Order.
“So, Charles, I understand you will be addressing the most recent attacks on journalists and the media,” said Dr. Jobrani.
“Without a doubt this conference is packed because of these attacks. Everyone wants answers but I’m afraid, my friend, there are none. The media has made the story about themselves and are now targets. I don’t see a way for them to be protected. The police don’t like them and most of the public distrusts them. Now they find themselves in a dangerous world and without friends. I plan to tell them to lose the star power, report the news and drop the pundits. I think many of them will likely die before there is serious reform,” replied Charles.
“You’re correct my friend, the media has painted themselves into a corner, especially taking sides in this semi-religious war. The United States has created a monster in the Middle East by attempting to impose its democratic ideals. Now, we all will reap the winds of a world war. I preach for the anti-jihad and peaceful believers of Islam who are killed by the radicals. They go to the slaughter like sheep every day. I’m doubting they will ever rise up against the radicals, but I will continue and pray for a peaceful world. I fear however, we are nearing a point of no return,” said Jobrani.
Charles pointed out the media was so concerned about safety they were not covering the conference. They are in full retreat, their ratings down, and the public is looking for alternative sources of news. The days of broadcast journalism may be dead. Social media is growing rapidly without backroom news managers.
“I realize you need to get ready for your presentation so let’s stop for now. Shall we resume over dinner tonight?” asked Dr. Jobrani.
“Let’s have dinner. I know a great restaurant and I have a car. I’ll make reservations for 8:00 p.m. and plan to pick you up at the front entry at 7:30 p.m.,” said Charles.
“That sounds good and I will see you then,” said his friend.
_____
Ali’s men drove to Jacksonville, located the rental car area, and watched for Charles Short. They had his picture and flight number thanks to their employer. They watched from a distance as cars left the rental area driving out of the airport. After less than an hour, they spotted Charles Short and followed him to the Omni Hotel’s parking garage. They did not go inside due to the cameras but instead parked several streets over and walked back to the garage. They entered, keeping out of sight of the cameras and walked until they found Short’s rental on the third floor. While walking past the rear of the car one of the men dropped to the ground and slid under the driver side of the vehicle. In mere seconds he sprang to his feet and they continued walking, finding the stairwell to the street.
The C-4 had been rigged with a burner phone ringer that could be remotely set off from a distance. The bomb was attached to the
metal frame with two magnets. The men drove away to another part of the city to wait for evening, figuring Charles Short would leave the hotel to visit friends. Their employer suggested he would do so and they would be waiting.
The conference had gone well and Dr. Jobrani’s remarks received a standing ovation. Charles found an intense interest in the murders and the media’s reactions. Most of the questions after his remarks concerned the cowardice exhibited by the so-called pundits. He tried to not take an extreme position but was quick to point out the media had brought most of this on themselves by taking sides instead of only reporting.
He went to his room after a quick lunch and took a two-hour nap. He awakened refreshed and looking forward to continuing his discussion with Dr. Jobrani.
Charles dressed and found his parking stub then left the hotel and walked to the parking garage. He took the elevator to the third floor and found his rental car. He got inside and checked the time. He would be in front of the hotel on time but would have to stand outside of his car and wave because he forgot to give the description of the car to Jobrani.
Charles pulled out of the parking garage and turned left to enter the circle for the hotel’s front entrance. He pulled up in line to wait when he saw Jobrani coming outside. He opened his driver’s door and stepped partially out, waving.
Ali’s men were across the street and walking away from the hotel when they saw Charles Short step out of the car and Dr. Jobrani approaching. Fearing they would miss their opportunity, they triggered the bomb.
The blast destroyed the car and several others near the front door. Charles was blown to the ground and on fire. He crawled screaming up the hotel steps toward Jobrani, who lay flat on his back, his head pierced by shards of glass. When the responders arrived, twenty-six people lay dead or dying. On the steps, the responders found Charles Short lying atop his friend Mohammad Jobrani.
Deadly Resonse (The Jake Stryker Series Book 1) Page 14