Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.

-William Jennings Bryan

Chapter 10-A Journey in the Dark

Thursday, April 28th, 2005, 11:11 p.m.

Milan, Italy

Panting and heaving, the Raptor ran through the corridors with all her might. Following closely behind her, with his gun drawn, Jason tried to catch up to her.

One thought occupied his mind: Don’t let her escape!

With her mask on, the Raptor tried her best to lose Jason.

Dammit, this boy is fast! She thought to herself as she ran. She dared not to look back, knowing that he was close, and she feared what might happen if he did catch her.

The Raptor kept running; her eyes quickly scanned the area around her, trying to remember which hallway to take for her getaway. She made an unexpected and sharp turn into another hallway, and bounced off the wall that she had skidded against, trying not to lose her speed. She headed down the hallway, realizing that she had made the wrong turn; she had no idea where she was now and she could hear Jason panting not too far behind her.

The Raptor suddenly skidded to a stop. She tried to open the door that was closest to her, but it was locked. Crap!

“Freeze!” Jason yelled out; he had finally caught up and now he aimed his gun at the Raptor. “Turn around. Slowly.” His face was hot as sweat dripped down.

The Raptor sighed as she raised her hands up and slowly turned to face Jason, but kept her head low.

“On your knees. Arms on your head.” He ordered her. The Raptor obediently did so, never raising her head to look at Jason.

Jason looked down at her angrily and pointed the gun at her head.

“Where is she?!” His voice was calm, but The Raptor could hear the anger behind it. “I ask again, where is she?”

The Raptor kept her silence.

“WHERE THE HELL IS SHE?!” His voice had risen and he no longer hid his anger. The Raptor continued her mime game, but her breathing had gotten louder. Tension between them grew as the Raptor contemplated on what she should do.

“WHERE’S MACKENZIE, MS. POWERS?!” Jason yelled, drilling the gun’s barrel into her head.

Three Days Earlier:

Monday, April 25th, 5:15 a.m.

Downtown, Los Angeles

Mirage Industries-Front for Central Intelligence Agency: L.A Department

Jason walked down the pearl colored hallway that led to the shooting range for his usual morning practice and was met by the stairs that led down to it. He walked for another five minutes or so and stopped in front of a booth where two agents sat within.

“Morning Agent Donahue, I was beginning to think you were skipping it today.” Ron smiled pleasantly as he registered Jason into the computer.

Jason made a small smile. “Good morning guys. No, I really need to clear my head today.”

“That’s a funny way to clear your head.” Responded Eric as he handed Jason a pair of goggles and earplugs.

“What gun are you registering today?” Ron asked.

“The usual,” Jason held up his gun, “The .40 automatic.”

“Right.” Ron nodded his head and typed Jason’s name and gun into the computer. “All right you’re all set. Enjoy.”

“Thanks.” Jason holstered his gun, grabbed his goggles and earplugs, and headed down the corridor towards his regular shooting booth. Jason settled his items onto his booth and loaded his .40 automatic. He noticed a shadow in the corner who was loading his/her target sheet.

Looks like I’m not the only one who couldn’t sleep. He thought to himself as he popped the magazine into the gun. He placed his earplugs on, placed his target sheet on the holder, and began to shoot after the sheet reached the opposite side of him. Jason fired several shots before he paused to see how well he did. As he squinted at the target, he heard the shadow in the corner fire aggressively at their target. Jason stared in the person’s direction and could only see their hands and the Glock that they were using. He studied the person’s hands and noticed a ring…an infinity shaped ring.

“Mackenzie.” He whispered to himself as he placed his gun down on the table and headed over to her booth.

Mackenzie was reeling in her target sheet when she heard footsteps approaching from behind her. She glanced at her sheet; perfect head and chest shots.

“I hate to be him.” Jason spoke softly as he stood behind her. Mackenzie didn’t reply, but took down the sheet instead. Jason knew what was on her mind: she had become obsessed with the objective of finding Taylor and Alex’s killers. “Mackenzie…” he made a comforting gesture towards her. His hands felt warm against her cold skin. Mac glanced at the target sheet, pretending to be interested in it, but all she could think about was her father. Jason turned Mac gently towards him and lifted her head. “You can’t keep doing this to yourself.”

“I told you I won’t rest until I bring Angelina and Alastar in.” She stared into his eyes; Jason could see the fiery in her eyes.

“I understand the pain you’re feeling-”
“You know nothing of my pain!” Mac shouted, tearing herself away from Jason.

Jason’s eyes flashed; he had never seen her like this.

“I know more than you think I do.” He tried to approach her again, but she backed away.

“I doubt that.”

Jason scoffs and shakes his head. “Don’t mistake that you’re the only one here who’s lost friends to this job.”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” she responded cynically, “I forgot what job we’re in.”

“Mackenzie, that’s not-” He tried to get close to her again, but she brushed him aside.

“You think a hug or kiss can fix this?” She glared at him.

He stopped short again. “No, but I understand when I need help-”

“Help? Is that what you think I need?”

“You can’t continue with this revenge routine. You’re becoming obsessed!”

“So you think I should forgot about the deaths’ of my friends!?”

“That’s not what I’m saying.” Jason tried to calm Mac down.

“Should I just prance around like it never happened…?”

“No! You should…”

“Should I just have you hold me until its all better?”

“Macken…”

“Who the hell do you think you are?”

“Someone who cares!”

“Care about someone else!” She snarled at him and walked off angrily.

Jason looked about with frustration and anger as Mac walked off. He stared after her as she went up the stairs then his eyes gazed over to the entrance booth: Ron and Eric stared at Jason with confused curiosity.

9:23 a.m.

Briefing Room

“Thanks to Agent Donahue, we now have images of the blueprints of the bomb that The Gun is hoping to build, along with what materials they’re using. At this moment, we have specialists – with Kevin at its head, who are trying to discern the appropriate way to disarm and neutralize it. Donahue,” Jack called Jason to his attention, “make sure you meet with them; you’re most likely going to need to how to stop it.”

Jason nodded.

“And now to other matters…” Jack motioned McCulloch to brief his agents.

Jason continued to glance at his brief report as McCulloch and Jack updated their current status on Powers and Alastar’s whereabouts. He tried desperately not to look up; Mackenzie was sitting right in front of him.

“It seems we have a developing lead.” McCulloch placed a blue folder down onto the table. “I have just been informed that our office in Greece has intercepted a communiqué between Powers and a man called Dr. Damon Calitri. It appears the basis of their conversation is to employ the Doctor to operate on Alastar, whose condition has worsened. They have arranged a transport to rendezvous with the Doctor in order to deliver him to an off site facility, where they will no doubt operate.”

“Is a location definite?” Danny asked.

“No, but…” Jack began.

“Do we have any idea who this man is?” Mac interrupted; her mind set on one thing-get Powers and her father.

Jack pointed out to page three of the brief that was passed out earlier.

“Damon Calitri is well known in the terrorist community as an off the books doctor.”

Mac nodded along. “So what’s the plan? Get Calitri to take us to Alastar and Powers?”

“Pretty much that is the idea.” McCulloch handed out plane tickets to Danny and Mac. “But this is surveillance and tag only. We can’t afford to lose this one. According to Mac’s imprisonment, Alastar and Powers are working under another man. I want to know who this man is. Are you sure you didn’t recognize him?”

Mac glanced up from her plane ticket. “No.” She shook her head. “Whoever this new player is, I wasn’t able to ID him; he kept his face in the shadows.” She lied.

“Right then.” McCulloch nodded. “I only want you to place a tracer on Powers once the Doctor meets her. Through Powers, we’ll be able to locate and ID this new player. Kevin?”

“Okay…here’s the problem: how do you trace a bad guy without the bug being detected?” He held up a vial. “By using your standard bug, with a small modification by moi, you get this new and improved bug that is undetectable by the latest bug sniffer.”

“You know what to do, so get to it.” McCulloch ordered Danny and Mac to head off within the hour. “Oh, one more thing…”

Mac and Danny paused as they were leaving.

“This is a basic surveillance op; which means to watch the target and not to engage…and I don’t think I need to stress the importance of holding off your anger and sticking to the job.”

“No sir. It’s understood.” Danny nodded.

“Agent Murdock?”

“Yeah, I got it.” Mac responded quickly.

10:24 a.m.

“Mac!” Jack called after her as she was leaving the office and into the lower parking lot elevator. Mac entered the elevator as Jack rushed in, catching it in time.

“This cannot continue!” He scolded her as he adjusted his suit tie.

Mac rolled her eyes as she pressed Level 2 of the basement floor.

“I told you all that I know about your parents’ death and about the Raptor.”

“Please forgive me if I find that hard to believe.” She scoffed.

“You cannot possibly blame me for your parents’ deaths or that of murderous criminals.”

“No, but I deserve that right to know what happened! To know that what I’m doing is right!” She snapped at him. “How can you not know? You know about Creed’s death. You claim to tell me that he was betrayed by disloyal Americans!”

“I don’t claim anything! It happened. You have to believe me!”

“I don’t know what to believe anymore…” Mac’s face was distorted with disgust and anguish.

The elevator door pinged as it reached the desired level; its doors opened. Mac rushed out and headed for her car with Jack at her heels.

“You can believe me. Mac!” He grabbed her arm and turned her to face him. “I have been there for you when you had no one. I taught you everything. I gave you EVERYTHING! So why now, why when we are so close, you begin to doubt?!”

Mac’s tore her arm out of his.

“What happened in Spain, Mac? What did that man tell you? Why the sudden questioning of everything we have worked so hard for?”

“Like I said before, ‘I don’t know who that man was’. But I know this: whoever he was, he told me a much less patriotic tale of Creed and who was really responsible for my parents’ deaths than you told me.”

Jack’s jaws clenched as he contemplated his thoughts. “That man lied to you.”

Mac turned toward her car and away from Jack. “Whether he did or not, one thing has been made clear to me: I can’t trust anyone.” She took out her keys, turned off her alarm, and opened her car door. “Now if you would excuse me, I have a plane to catch.”

“You can’t abandon this, Mackenzie…not after all we’ve been through. It’s who you are now…it’s your destiny.” He called after her.

“The only reason why I went along was so it would bring me closer to the killers! It was never a matter of destiny! It was a matter of bringing people to justice! ” She placed her bag in her car and began climbing into the driver’s seat.

“No, you were just hoping for closure…for revenge and I was the one who could grant you that.” Jack’s voice was flat and piercing.

Mac’s emotions blazed with anger. She paused from getting into the car and slammed the door shut; its sound echoed throughout the parking lot. Her movements were quick as she drew close to Jack’s face, with a threatening finger pointed at him.

“You told me they ordered my parents to die. That because myfather was associated with Creed…” A tear dripped down her cheek, “he was killed. YOU TOLD ME THEY WERE RESPONSIBLE!!” The parking structure was filled with her rage as her voice reverberated off its walls. Her voice drew to a cold, but acute whisper, “Don’t tell me I was looking for closure, because that will never be enough.” And with that final remark, she got back into her car and sped away.

Tuesday, April 26th 2:23 p.m.

Long Beach, California

Long Beach Dock Warehouses

“What do you have for me?” McCulloch was leaning against a metal table with his arms crossed. Jason glanced down at the table and lifted the notebook that he had taken from the power plant in Spain.

“It’s our mystery man’s journal. This page caught my interest when I was at the op in Spain.” He handed the notebook over, with a specific page opened for viewing.

McCulloch took the leather bound book and read the page’s content. His head snapped up in shock as he looked directly at Jason. “The Raptor is Taylor Turner? That’s ridiculous.”

“It came to a surprise to me too sir, until I continued to search through the book more thoroughly.” He leaned over McCulloch and turned to another page. “He’s been following the Raptor’s activities since 1999. There are even flight records of flights taken from the countries that the Raptor has killed in. I’ve taken the liberty to verify the names…I think you’ll be surprised to see the names that are highlighted. Here.” He pointed to the highlighted names of several flight records.

“Selena Grant…Melissa Reed…Brittany Storm…” McCulloch named a few that were on the first few lists.

“Those are all Agent Turner’s aliases.” Jason explained.

“You’re telling me she’s the Raptor? I thought the Raptor was male?”

“Not according to this…but sir, I had also looked up other flight records for those particular nights…including security images…” He handed McCulloch another folder, which he opened. “I believe you will recognize the three people in these photos.”

“Angelina Powers? Agent Raines?” McCulloch flipped to the last photo. “Agent Murdock!?”

“What are you trying to tell me, Donahue?”

Jason’s face was expressionless. “Sir, there’s more.” He pointed to a marked page. McCulloch gave him an odd look, but flipped to the page.

“‘He’s picking us off one by one. God have mercy on their souls if the Raptor ever discovers their identities.’” McCulloch read, and then flipped to another marked page. “’Julius’s movements have become more calculated as he enacts his revenge on the men that had formed the program. Carl was just found dead this afternoon. I fear that he is moving faster ever since he believed that I was involved in the betrayal. For the safety of my daughter, I will remain as the world believes: that I am dead.’ It’s dated February 2003…that’s when General Carl Garrison was found murdered with…”

“Three slashed across his face.” Jason concluded.

“What does that have to do with these three?” He referred to the photos.

“Well, as the journal goes on, our mystery man had concluded that there were two moles in the agency, along with the Julius Creed himself. In a recent entry, he stated that he had no doubt that Agent Turner and Raines were indeed working under Creed’s supervision.”

“And how did he get that information?”

“Through a double agent…or triple in our case.”

“What? Who?”

“Angelina Powers was his informant and access to both the KGB and CIA.”

“This man planted her in BOTH agencies?”

“Yes…to gain resources to locate Creed, which he eventually did.”

“So this man sent Ms. Powers to follow Turner and Raines, after he found out that they were the moles?”

“Apparently so…but sir, I found a different connection to all the agents…including Murdock.”

“What is it?”

“They were all recruited by Jack Slightman.”

“Mere coincidence…”

“Not according to mystery man; he believes that Jack is Creed.”

“Preposterous! I’ve known Jack for years! We met shortly after the Cold War! And the photo of Julius Creed is of another man.”

“The photo could have easily been manipulated.”

McCulloch remained silent.

“Sir…you asked me to find out who the Raptor really is…and I’m telling you, after weeks of research and review…I have come to believe it is Jack.”

“I won’t hear anymore of this nonsense. Donahue, you cannot possibly rely on everything this man has written. For all we may know, it may have been planted for you to find!”

“If that is the case, then those blueprints that I photographed are useless too!” He retorted back. A sigh escaped from Jason’s mouth. “Sir, I don’t think we should eliminate this idea too quickly. Please review what I’ve written…take a look for yourself. Most of what is said in that journal appears to follow the Raptor’s movements…”

“I don’t believe this. Jack is a Senior Officer and you expect me to believe this? Based on what?”

“The evidence that I am presenting you, sir. All I ask is that you look into Jack’s records; you have the clearance.”

“Do you realize what you’re asking me to do Jason?”

“Yes sir, but with all due respect, what we’ve done in the past hasn’t been CIA approved either.”

McCulloch let out a heavy sigh, “And what of Murdock? You think she’s the mole now?” he raised a curious, but defensive eyebrow.

“Uh, I need more time to figure that out.” Jason looked down. The thought had crossed his mind, but he couldn’t believe that; she would never do anything against her country…but. Jason gazed back at McCulloch.

“And no one else has seen this?”

“No, sir…”

“All right, I’ll look into this, but Jason, make sure you give me more than this to accuse people. It’s a big accusation you’re making…”

“Understood. But you do realize what this means?”

“Yes…and by the looks of this, it’s larger than we’ve imagined it to be.”

3:19 p.m.

Athens, Greece

Fortune Courtyard

“Man, this is taking too long…” Danny sighed as he placed down his binoculars. “When was this meet supposed to take place?”

“3:30” Mac replied simply as she watched Doctor Calitri sit on a park bench while reading a newspaper. Positioned on their stomachs across the street on a building’s roof, Danny continued to whine, but Mac’s mind was preoccupied with something else.

Her mind kept playing back to the conversation she had with her father…then to Jack’s. Funny, she didn’t feel bad lying to the CIA or to him about her father being the one who was the head of The Dvustvolka. No, she didn’t lie to save her father, on the contrary, she needed answers about Creed, and he was the only real lead she had at the moment.

“Mac?” Danny’s sharp tone erupted in her ear.

“What?!” She blinked a few times and gave him an annoyed look.

“They’re here.” He gestured with the binoculars at Dr. Calitri, who was being approached by Angelina Powers.

“All right, let’s go…” She adjusted herself towards a bag that was next to her. She unzipped it to reveal a large transport standard sized black box, which contained a sniper rifle.

“You know how to use that thing?” Danny eyed her curiously, but a small grin was slapped on his face.

“Kenny told me how to use it.”

“Right…” Danny looked back into the binoculars. “Hurry up or we’ll lose our window. How fast can you assemble that? 30 secon-” He paused and glanced back to find Mac snapping the scope on.

“10 seconds.” She smiled and placed the tracer vial into the rifle.

“Show off…” Danny rolled his eyes and went back to watching Powers and Calitri together.

Mac leveled the rifle and aimed it Powers. Her jaws tightened as she focused the scope onto Angelina; this was the person who killed Alex and Taylor. She suddenly had the urge of slashing her face, but decided to settle on squeezing the bug rifle instead. The rifle made a small pop sound as it fired directly at Angelina’s neck.

Angelina twitched as she felt a sting on her neck; she rubbed it and glanced at her hand…nothing. She shrugged and led the Doctor to a waiting car. They left the courtyard shortly after.

Danny grinned as he pulled out a small PDA that was designed to keep track of the bug that was now in Angelina’s system. A small red dot was moving across the screen. “Package is secured.” He got up quickly as Mac began dismantling the rifle. “Time to go.” They both cleaned off any evidence of their presence on the roof and hurried off to follow the tracer’s signal.

3:45 pm

Athens, Greece

Athens International Airport

Danny scratched his head as he and Mackenzie watched the good doctor and Angie enter a small private jet. He glanced at his PDA, making sure that it was correct. Its little red dot flashed for him and he smiled.

“We got them.” He waved the PDA at Mac, who just nodded silently. “Hey? You okay?” His face drew out his concern.

“Yeah, I just want to get this over with.”

“We’ll get them.”

“You can bet on that…” She muttered and nodded for them to head out.

4:00 p.m.

Los Angeles, California

Union Station

Jason glanced at his watch, he was right on time, but his informant was not to be seen. His forehead furrowed as he gazed around the station; the message said it was urgent. Two weeks ago a man had contacted Jason with information about The Raptor and his past and recent activities. It was he, who led Jason to the conclusion that The Raptor had trained a woman apprentice to succeed him and that he embedded a mole in the Agency.

Jason glanced at his watch again; if he wasn’t here within 15 minutes, it was protocol to leave. Jason opened the newspaper he had with him and began to wait.

4:04 p.m.

Downtown, Los Angeles

Mirage Industries-Front for Central Intelligence Agency: L.A Department

Jack glimpsed up from his paperwork to Kevin knocking on his office door.

“Yes?” Jack placed his pen down and invited Kenny to sit down, which he did rather awkwardly.

“Sir, do you recall the disc that Mackenzie got from Colonel Chen?”

“Yes. McCulloch mentioned that you and Mac discovered a small glitch in the disc. Did you figure out what it was?” Jack’s eyes hinted to a small childlike excitement.

Kevin happily handed a manila folder to Jack. “It took me awhile, but I was able to find out that it wasn’t a glitch or a virus…but a code.”

Jack’s eyebrows rose.

Kevin continued, “I just finished decoding it and I think you would want to see this.”

Jack opened the folder and pulled out the information. He didn’t show his excitement, but he was bouncing on the inside. He wasn’t able to decode the disc he had Mac copy for him, nor were his other sources. He already knew what was to be on the disc, but never the complete contents. His eyes grew wide as he read the names, more than half he had already…but the most important ones…the final two. For years they had searched for their identities…and now it was sitting in front of him.

“Sir?” Kevin stared at Slightman with concern. “Do you know what this means?”

Jack didn’t seem to hear.

“Sir. These are politically associated names, for which I used the CIA database to find information.”

“And?” Jack seemed to perk out of his thoughts.

“The majority were all assassinated by the Raptor, and associated with some file known as Theseus.”

“Theseus? I’ve never heard of it.” Jack gave him a blank but stern look, which only Mac could have identified as Jack lying his ass off.

“Well, it’s actually the original program in which the Raptor was created for.”

“Really?” Jack’s eyes didn’t seem to blink.

Kevin felt more awkward than ever as he tried to look at his boss. He never liked Jack. There was always something about him that he could never trust, but he tolerated his existence due to one simple fact: he was the boss. “Yes. It seems that Colonel Chen had the original files all along. But what I don’t understand is how he was able to obtain it. I mean…this is the CIA…the most secured intelligence agency on the western hemisphere…”

“Has McCulloch seen this?” Jack asked abruptly.

“No sir. I thought to come to you first.”

“Good. For the time being, let’s keep it that way. I don’t want people to know that a known terrorist has had the names of many of our private political associates…”

“But sir…is that legal?”

“Kevin. Do you think I would put this department in jeopardy? Have I not the best interest of my agents?’ He responded in a condescending tone.

“No sir, I mean yes sir…” Sweat had formed on Kenny’s brow. Crap! What was he spluttering out?

“Is this the only copy?” He placed his long right forefinger on top of the folder after he closed it.

“Yes sir. I could make more if you want?” Kenny yelped out a helpful peep and gave his corky smile.

“No. As I said before, I want this classified and detained only between the two of us.” Jack’s voice was edgy and irritated.

“Yes. Sir….of course…right.”

“Is that all?”

“Yes…” He got up quickly and moved towards the door. He paused, remembering something else. “Actually no.”

Jack looked annoyed, but silent.

“I think I’ve found a lead to the Raptor’s identity.”

Jack’s heart jumped. “What?”

“Well, through those files, the physicality of Julius Creed doesn’t match his file picture that the NSA gave me. This indicates that someone switched it, so I began a database search based on the information in Theseus.” His feet moved nervously as his hands fluttered about. “I was also able to create a program, well I won’t bore you with the long version, but basically its purpose is to find out who switched it. So far, sir, which is why I brought this up, well…what I came up with so far is, that, the switch was performed by someone in the Agency…”

Jack stopped breathing. “Excuse me?”

“Someone in the Agency did it, and I think Creed is the one who switched it.”

“And how did you come to that conclusion?” Jack leaned forward, with an anxious expression.

“It was done through back channels…but the source of the leak was done on the outside… in Japan.”

“So one of the Directors of Theseus could have done that. Japan is known to harbor politicians. They could have done it on their break or…”

“I don’t believe that sir. The feed was tagged in the year of 1984. After Julius Creed was labeled MIA and terminated. And if my history is correct, Japan and the US weren’t so friendly with each other due to some legal issues…”

“A pay off could have been a good motivation for them to harbor.” Jack pressed.

Why was Jack avoiding the facts? Why was he so defensive?

“Sir. It’s not likely. The Raptor is alive. He’s the one whose murdering people and the scary thing is: he’s probably still in this Agency as a mole. Perhaps even in our department. I’ll known by tonight. I expect my program worm to be completed by then.” Kevin licked his lips and swallowed his fear. “I also suggest you reconsider your prior decision. I’m taking this to the CIA panel tomorrow.” With those last words, Kevin turned on his heel and left the room with an unnerved look slapped on his face.

“Oh God…what did I just do? Did I just threaten my boss?!” Horrified and suddenly pale, Kenny rushed to the bathroom to dispose of his lunch the unnatural way.

Jack looked sternly ahead of him, staring at nothing but everything.

Kevin could ruin everything! Dammit. I underestimated him. He could and would never understand what I’ve been doing. I’ve come too far now. My plans will not be compromised by some computer geek Asian!

Jack sat back into his chair. A deadly and dark solemn glare filled his eyes.

“He has to be stopped.”

6:23 p.m.

Dublin, Ireland

Westin Dublin Hotel

“You sure this is the place?” Mac looked at Danny curiously.

“The PDA shows that this is the place.” He looked down at the electronic machine and then at the extravagant Westin Dublin Hotel’s entrance.

“Well, there’s only one way to be sure.” She pulled on his sleeve and led him inside the revolving doors.

The room was laid in a pool of white as they walked inside the hotel. Gold lining sparkled from the floor tiles and the outlining frames on the walls. The hotel lobby was filled with luxurious fitted guests and workers as they went about with their daily activity. Mac walked straight ahead to the front desk, while Danny turned right to the hotel’s self service telephones. As he reached an open booth, Danny made a small smile as he watched Mac ask for service in the black outfit she was wearing.

“This is always the funny part.” He took out his PDA and two small wires; one white and the other red. He then took the receiving end of the telephone and unscrewed it. He glanced around, making sure that no one was watching and continued to hook up the two wires together. He smiled as his PDA’s screen began to hack into the hotel’s database. 10 seconds later, the PDA’s screen changed into the hotel’s logo and main computer screen. He pressed some buttons and Angelina’s tracker appeared, with several more movements with his finger he was able to lay out the hotel’s blueprint to match Angelina’s location.

“She’s on the 10th floor. Do your thing.” Danny encouraged Mac as she finally reached the front desk.

Mac went straight to an open employee and placed her hands on the desk. The employee raised an eyebrow and scanned Mackenzie’s outfit.

“What can I do for you today, ma’am?”

“Well you can start by removing that smirk off your face.” She responded in a West Virginia accent.

“Excuse me?” He looked at her in disgust. “We do not serve,” he glanced at her wardrobe again and continued to show his distaste, “commoners.”

“Pardon me?” Mac pretended to appear insulted. “Did you just call me a commoner? Do you know who you are speaking to…” she glanced at his name tag. “Seamus? I am Trisha Carmichael! How dare you speak to me like that?” She gave him an annoyed look. “You have heard of Carmichael, have you not?” She continued to show her impatience.

“The manager’s name is Karen McFarland.” Danny whispered into Mac’s comm., as he scanned the West Dublin’s computer system some more.

The worker cleared his throat, obviously nervous of his mistake. “Ma’am…I was not aware…”

“Not aware?! You’re a complete idiot! Where is Karen, your manager?! I demand to speak with her this instant!”

The worker began to grow more nervous and Mac could see he was beginning to sweat. “That’s not necessary madam. I am completely equipped to help you. Please let me show you my apologies by giving you one of our complimentary rooms.” He rushed to the computer on his right.

“Do you think that a ‘complimentary room’ can solve this?!” She pointed at herself. “I am Trisha Carmichael.” She gave him a stern look. “I demand to speak to Karen. You are obviously new and perhaps out of a job by this afternoon.” She tapped the desk three times with her left forefinger.

“How about our best suite?” He looked at her frantically.

“I want my room!” Mac sneered out.

“Of course. Of course. I’m so sorry Mrs. Carmichael.” He glanced at the computer, unsure of what to do or what room Mac was talking about. He couldn’t hide his lost expression as he scanned the computers.

“I put you in room 147 on the 9th floor. It’s right under them.” Danny whispered again, quite pleased with himself that he had hacked in, as well as Mac’s dramatized outbursts.

Mac continued to tap her fingers on the desk as Seamus searched the system. A small sigh erupted from him as he found Trisha Carmichael under room 147 on the 9th floor. He quickly gave her a key card. “I apologize again Mrs. Carmichael for the misunder-”

He was cut off by Mac’s hand, which instantly rose to interrupt him. “I’m tired of you.”

“Uh…would you like me to get your bags?” He responded cautiously.

“I want you out of my sight.” Mac elegantly snapped back. She grabbed her key card and turned away.

The worker swallowed hard as Mac began to walk away, but his throat was caught when she turned towards him again. “Oh and if you hadn’t figured it out: you’re out of a job by this evening.” She turned towards the elevators and walked off as if nothing was wrong.

Seamus turned pale and ran off to the Men’s bathroom, holding his mouth with his hands.

Danny met Mackenzie at the elevator.

“Did you have to freak him out like that?”

“Yeah.” She replied simply as they got onto the elevator. A small grin appeared on her face, which Danny mimicked with happiness.

“That’s the first smile I’ve seen from you in days. I forgot how much you love this job.” He stared at the floor numbers as the elevator went up.

Mac’s grin slowly faded as she remembered why they were here.

4:30 p.m.

Los Angeles, California

Union Station

Folding his paper roughly, Jason slammed it down onto the bench next to him. He had waited an extra 15 minutes for this man and yet still he had not shown up. Impatient and weary of the situation, Jason stood up and began to head out.

“Please sit Agent Donahue.” A voice spoke to him behind one of the white pillars on his left. “I have come far. I apologize for my lateness. My flight was delayed.”

The man stepped away from the pillar and appeared before Jason.

“Your message said it was urgent. What do you have for me?” Jason gestured for them to sit down. They did.

“I fear for one of your fellow agents.” He began to speak.

“What are you talking about?”

“I’ve located the Raptor and his accomplice to your very department.”

“What?! Why is it that we’ve hadn’t discovered this?”

“Because you haven’t been tracking this man since his birth!” He hissed. “I know the Raptor.”

“I am aware of that. Please, continue.” He was eager to hear more.

“The information I give you must go directly to McCulloch. Do you understand me? No one else.”

“I understand.”

The informant drew out a long sigh. “Is Agent Mackenzie Murdock still in your department?”

Jason pulled back. “How do you know about Mackenzie? His voice defensive as well as protective, which caused a small raise of an eyebrow from the informant.

“Agent Murdock is in danger.” He ignored Jason’s inquiry. “I have reason to believe that Julius Creed is working with Jack Slightman and that he may have her killed.”

“What?!”

“Listen.” He hissed again. “Have you heard of project Theseus?”

Jason shook his head, unsure if he should believe this man.

“Of course not, I covered it up too well. Anyways, Theseus was the operation that created the Raptor. It is a project to terminate any and all threats to the United States during the Cold War. However, on one of the missions that The Raptor undertook, something happened. The Raptor experienced negative effects to his programming…”

“What programming? Are you telling me that the Raptor was trained to kill?”

The informant nodded shamefully. “Apparently he was secretly brainwashed. Two out of the five men involved with the project had it ordered to be done. The other three had not known about it until the Raptor defected. He was trained to kill and kill he did. Several Agents were sent in to subdue him and to repeat the diffused phrase that would dismantle his killing behavior until the trigger phrase was rehearse to him again. Unfortunately, his response to the phrase appeared ineffective and he assassinated those agents.”

“Do you know why he regressed from his programming?”

“No. The only man that knows that is the one that is most difficult to find. The one who was the head of Theseus; Patrick Dunbar. He disappeared several years ago, when he began to realize that the Raptor was alive and after all those that were involved.”

“How do I know that what you say is true? Your prior information left McCulloch skeptic and me weary.”

“This is personal for me Agent Donahue. The Raptor took away my life and my family. I don’t want anymore deaths on my head.”

“I don’t understand…what other deaths…?” He pried.

“Agent Donahue, I was one of the men that were in charge of Theseus. I myself recommended Julius Creed to assume the identity known as The Raptor. It is my fault that he is the way he is. If it weren’t for me, he would have never resorted to the actions and behaviors that he is consumed in.”

“What!?” Jason drew back from the informant. “You brainwashed this killer?!”

“No! I was one of the three that found out. Creed never knew that I wasn’t involved but treated the rest of us as if we were. For years now we have been hunted like prey and have been slaughtered as such. In response to this, I have collaborated with McCulloch and the CIA in order to stop Creed. I come to you because McCulloch believes that the Raptor is watching him and me as well, but not you. McCulloch assured me of your skills and thus told me to seek you out. I have come to you again because of the recent events. Due to the past activities these few days, Creed will increase his activities.”

Jason drew a blank face.

“The rescue mission in Spain? The power plant? Chemical warfare? Ring any bells?”

“Yes, but I still don’t understand.”

“And McCulloch said you were smart.” The informant rolled his eyes. “That mission was set up in order to draw out Creed’s accomplish. Like the information I gave you before, I believe that the new Raptor is a woman and had believed it to be Agent Taylor Turner. But until recently, I discovered that it was not so, a mistake I regret to have made.” His voice became solemn and guilt filled.

“Which leaves only two other women.” Jason felt sick to the stomach. “My God.”

“I have the other one surveyed at the moment, but the other, she is harder to come close to.”

“You cannot possibly believe that an agent of the United States would work under a madman, especially this particular agent! I know her personally and I do not believe that Agent Murdock is in league with Julius Creed.”

“Nothing is what it seems. She is the closest to Slightman, the very man I believe to be Julius Creed.”

“Why am I listening to this? You have no physical proof of any of this! It’s all circumstantial. No, I refuse to hear anymore…”

“Agent Donahue! Do you think it’s easy for me to tell you all this!? To have researched this for the past 20 years!? I do this only because I want no more suffering to come from that man! I want him stopped! But I cannot do it alone!”

“Then why me!? Why come to me?!”

“Because Agent Donahue, you’re the only one that can save my daughter.”

Jason looked at the informant closely, but unbelieving as well.

“You’re her father. You’re Mackenzie’s father.” Light dawned on him as he stared at Carter with uncertainty and awe.

“Yes, and it is about time I finally told someone the whole truth.” Carter leaned closer to Jason and began to tell him everything.

9:10 p.m.

Dublin, Ireland

Westin Dublin Hotel

“Have they moved?” Mac, who was pacing around the room, asked.

Danny turned off the television and went to the desk, where his PDA was sitting. He glanced at it briefly. “No. I don’t think they’ll move until later tonight.” He nodded towards the window. “The traffic is hell out there. It won’t clear up until 10 or so.”

Mac mumbled a curse. She had a feeling that they weren’t in the room, but how to get Danny to let her go?

“I know you’re frustrated, Mac, but we need both of them, not just Powers.”

“I know, okay! But just knowing that she’s above me is torture!” She honestly replied.

“Hey, why don’t you get some sleep? I’ll watch the PDA for any movements and wake you when they do.”

“Naw. You know I can’t sleep when we’re on assignment…I’m going downstairs for a drink.” She headed out the door.

“Maaaccc…” His voice was calm but it let out his distrust.

“It’s just a drink. I won’t go up the elevator.”

He looked at her, unbelieving.

“I promise okay? I just need to do something.”

“All right, but I’m coming with.”

She seemed to hesitate at first, but then relented.

They went downstairs together and sat at the sports bar. Danny ordered scotch, whilst Mac stressed that she wanted a Cosmopolitan.

“A Cosmo? Since when did you drink that?”

“Since Trisha Carmichael came into the picture.” She stuck her tongue out at him.

“Well that wasn’t very lady like.” He teased, happy to see her joking again.

Mac shrugged out of amusement and sipped her drink with elegance. Her eyebrows furrowed immediately.

“What?” Danny glanced at her and then around, just in case she saw Angie or Calitri.

“This drink taste like crap.” She giggled lightly.

He laughed with her and ordered her usual drink for her; Bourbon on the rocks.

They sat together for a while and Danny was pleased that she was opening up to him again. They had been friends and partners for years and he had gotten used to protecting Mac and sharing their pains together. She was like a little sister to him and he would always be on her side no matter what. When he saw her in so much pain these past few weeks, it hurt him that he couldn’t do anything and that she wouldn’t let anyone in. As long as he had known her, he always sensed that she was hiding something from him, a darkness, which he would see ever so often in her eyes. However, he figured it was something about her parents and never pressed about it, but lately, her eyes had gotten darker with the situation at hand. He only hoped that he was able to help her somehow.

“Hey, Mac?” Danny took a gulp of his drink and glanced at it as he addressed her.

“Yeah?” She turned away from the sports bar’s television and stared at him quizzically.

“We’ve been friends for a long time right?”

“Yeah…” Her head tilted, unsure what he was getting at.

“And we can tell each other anything right?”

A crooked smile formed on her lips. “Yeah…some things I regret hearing from you though.” She joked, indicating a hidden joke between them.

He laughed softly. “I only told you about that because you’re my only real girl friend!”

“Why didn’t you call you’re sister for advice?! It was her daughter!” A grin was slapped on her face.

“They were on a retreat! That meant no cell phones and she didn’t give me the place’s number!” He drank a little more and laughed.

Mac burst out laughing. “I can’t believe you didn’t go down the aisle! Daniel O’Conner, fearful of little tampons!” She laughed harder.

“Well, I’m just glad you came over and helped.” He smiled sheepishly. “And I was able to keep my manhood.”

She almost choked on her drink from laughter.

“No, but seriously, you helped a lot, and Becky says she’s indebted to you forever.”

Mac began to calm down. “Well, she’s a good kid. How old is she now? 16?”

“Yeah…she’s at that age where she has discovered that boys are actually dateable.” He snickered. “I’m just glad I ain’t her father. I would have to wave a gun around to get those boys off her.”

Mac smiled. Danny as a father. “You would have made a great dad.”

“Yeah.” They grew silent. “I still wonder from time to time…you know, what if?”

She nodded.

“What if the baby didn’t miscarry, or what if Melanie and I were still together.” He took a sip. “What if her mother was dead?” He started to laugh. “God, I hate that woman.”

Mac laughed with him.

Danny smiled at her.

“What was it that you wanted to tell me?” She suddenly remembered why he brought the subject up.

He placed his drink down. “Only that I’m here for you and you can tell me anything.”

They smiled at each other in silence.

Mac glanced down at her drink. She wished that she could talk to Danny or to anyone. She was getting tired of hiding things, of living the life she led. She was tired of the secrets around her. Most of all, she was tired of lying to her friends. She glanced up at Danny, who was watching her intently. His understanding reminded her of Jason.

Jason, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you…

Everything was tearing apart. She realized that she had pushed away the one person who could possibly understand her. He had told her of his past that night after he was almost taken by Angie. That night when she realized how much they were alike when she laid in his arms as the rain pounded against his apartment’s rooftop. They had moved fast, but it was the most exhilarating feeling she had ever felt. She suddenly realized that she could possibly love him. She looked into Danny’s eyes. She was not about to lose another friend because of her mistakes.

She opened her mouth to speak, but then his PDA began to vibrate.

He placed his hand into his pocket and pulled it out.

“They’re on the move.” He glanced up, clearly disappointed; she looked like she was about to tell him something.

She nodded and they headed outside to their rental car.

6:08 p.m.

Los Angeles, California

Union Station

“So now you know everything Agent Donahue. I hope that you will conduct this situation properly.”

Jason stared at the Carter Murdock with awe. “I just can’t believe that the Raptor is Jack or that Angelina Powers is his apprentice. Or that you’re-” He let out a sharp breath.

“Sometimes the truth is unbelievable.” Carter cut him off. “Now you see why I fear for my daughter. He will kill her if he knows that I am alive.”

Jason nodded slowly.

“I’ve lingered too long. Remember to tell McCulloch everything and that I await his response.”

“You’re off to Italy then?” Jason glanced up at Murdock as he got up to leave.

“Yes. That is where Alastar is. I must return before they suspect my disappearance.”

“I still can’t see why you recruited Angelina to be apart of The Gun.”

“It was the only way to get to Julius or Jack, as you call him, to realize that someone knew of Creed. I used Powers in hopes for her to relay information. That is how he figured out that the disc was in Chen’s hands. I gave him bread crumbs to follow and he took it. She works for him and him alone. The KGB or the CIA never knew that she was turned by him.”

“And Raines?”

“A causality of war. He was involved in this ever since Creed sent him in to be a mole within my organization, but McCulloch had secretly briefed him on what The Gun really represents.”

Jason nodded. “I understand now. Thasnk you for trusting me.”

Carter smirked. “I only trust you because my daughter needs you.”

Jason was taken aback.

“Yes, Jason, I know of your relationship with her and your fight. She can be quite stubborn, no?” He smiled, which made Jason relax a bit.

“How can I regain her trust? She thinks that I’m just holding her back.”

“Give her some time. She’ll realize soon how much she cares for you. I must go now. Good luck.”

“You too.” Jason whispered as he watched Mackenzie’s father walk off into the darkness.

11:10 p.m.

Dublin, Ireland

Westin Dublin Hotel

Danny was in the driver’s seat of a 2006 Volkswagen Golf while Mac sat in the backseat, trying to set up some gear.

“I hate this car.” Danny complained as he followed the Mercedes Benz that Angelina, Calitri, and two other men were in. “It’s too small and ugly.”

Mac smiled. “I think it’s cute.” She placed some ammo into an Eagle cartridge.

“I think you’re saying that because you know how much I hate this car!” He shifted the gears.

Mac laughed. “You know me too well.”

Danny smiled at the thought that he made Mackenzie laugh. It was good to hear joy from her again. He continued to follow the Benz into an airstrip. He made a note on which hanger the Benz pulled into and parked two or three hangers down, in order not to cause suspicions.

“Why do you think they stopped in Ireland if they’re going somewhere else?” Danny asked Mac, who handed him the Eagle that she had loaded.

“Safety procedures. Angie is paranoid as hell. She usually makes no more than two stops to cover her tracks. You’re wearing your vest right?” She opened one of her black duffel bags, and glanced inside. Inside the bag, a Torashuko gleamed at her. She took a deep breath and glanced at Danny with a sad frown.

“Yup.” He placed his gun inside his holster and stared outside the windshield.

“Danny…”

“Yeah, Mac.” He turned to look at her, but instead of seeing her face, he saw a fist come at him. He had no time to react to the punch and was soon slumped against the driver’s window.

“I’m sorry Danny, but this I got to do alone.” She went back to her duffel bag and began to take out her uniform.

Five minutes later

Two airplane hangers over

Mackenzie hovered on top of the hanger’s rooftop as she glanced through a sky roof. She watched closely as the two men led Calitri into the private jet. Carefully, she opened the window and slipped in, onto a wooden walkway. She silently followed the pathway until it led her to the ground floor. With an unnatural speed, she slipped beside the Mercedes Benz. Crouched, Mac watched as Angie headed toward the jet.

She had to move now if she wanted to get onto that plane.

Angelina had felt a presence behind her and was lucky for her instincts. If she had not turned around when she did, she would have found six blades sticking out from her gut. She dodged the Raptor’s claws, but was no match for the woman’s speed.

Yes, a woman. Angelina thought to herself as she stared at those cold, but somewhat familiar, eyes. Feminine eyes.

She drew out a gun and began to fire at The Raptor. “You are not getting me!” She screamed.

Mac’s eyes gave a surprise stare as she quickly squeezed the palm of her hands, which caused the Tiger Claws to retract into armbands, and began to flip her body sideways to avoid the deadly bullets.

Hearing the commotion outside the plane, the two men, with guns drawn, hurried outside to help their commander.

Angelina screamed out in hatred as she fired several more shots. She was beginning to become frustrated that she was unable to hit the Raptor.

Mac dove behind some wooden crates, and mischievously crawled towards the back of the plane.

Unaware that the Raptor had moved at all, the three blazing guns remained at the wooden crates.

“Hurry up! Let’s go!” They slowly moved back towards the plane’s open door.

Waking up to gunshots, Danny rubbed his head with earnest.

“Mac, you idiot!” He mumbled to himself as he ran out the car, his Eagle drawn.

Mac peeked behind the plane’s front tire and saw them moving up the plane’s stairs backwards, their eyes still focused on the crates. Mac made a devilish grin as she rushed to the stairs.

Ramon, who was the first one to be climbing the stairs, screamed out in pain. Angelina and Dieter, who was the other man guard, turned to see three claws sticking out of Ramon’s shins. The claws retracted, and Ramon, unable to hold his balance, fell on top of Dieter, but Angelina was able to escape the domino body effect. She skidded to the ground, her gun pointing at the staircase.

No one.

“Where the hell did you go!?” She screamed.

“Right here.” A sinister voice came from behind.

Angie turned and gasped as Mac’s right foot met her face. She rolled over on the floor, unconscious from the kick.

Dieter pushed a screaming Ramon off him, but found the Raptor hovering over him. He pointed his hand up at her, but realized that he had lost his gun. He gulped as three claws caressed his face. Crouched, the Raptor yelled out at Ramon to shut up or she would make his death more agonizing. Dieter stared in fear as he heard his work mate whimper behind him.

“You are going to take me to Alastar, or I will make regret the day you were born.” Mac snarled out. Her other fist was pressed firmly on the Dieter’s chest; threatening him that she would unleash her claws. “No sudden movements or I will extract your intestines right in front of you. Understand?”

Dieter nodded fearfully, thankful that she hadn’t stuck her claws in him.

“Good. Now take Angelina inside. I have other plans for her.” Mac slowly arose and kicked Dieter and Ramon’s gun aside. She walked back to Powers and picked up her gun. Twirling it around on her finger, she motioned Dieter to get up. She had retracted all her claws and waited for Dieter to carry Angie into the plan. He did so, but was unable to move up the stairs because of Ramon. He stood still as the Raptor walked over to Ramon.

“I have other plans for you too.” Mac whispered into the man’s ear, who whimpered in fear as tears dripped down his cheeks. Thinking of Danny and knowing that he would never stop if he knew that she was taken, thought of an idea. “A man will be here momentarily. Tell him only of where we are going! Nothing else. You know of my reputation, tell him that I am Angelina Powers, or I will make you suffer none other!” With her left fist, she knocked Ramon unconscious and then she pushed him aside with one of her legs. “Put her inside, and don’t alert Calitri or the pilot in any way.” She pointed the gun at Dieter, who gave her an understanding nod. “Excellent.” She moved up the stairs.

“Don’t move!” Danny yelled at The Raptor as he saw Dieter carry a woman inside the plane. The man and woman disappeared inside. The Raptor froze in the doorway.

“Drop the gun and return Mackenzie to me!”

No Danny, don’t make me…” She clenched Angie’s gun and took in a deep breath.

“Drop the gun or I will kill you!” Danny screamed. He deduced that the woman being carried was Mac.

“Get the plane started.” She yelled at Dieter and quickly turned inside the plane, but stuck out her gun to fire at Danny.

Danny’s vision suddenly turned to the top of the hanger as he realized that he was shot and the impact had caused him to fall backwards. He grunted in pain as his body hit the floor.

“Move!” he heard the Raptor scream at the pilot.

The plane’s motor started as Mac closed the plane’s door. She kept her eyes at Dieter, who had placed Angie in a seat and buckled her. “Sit down and keep your mouths shut.” She ordered Dieter and a very frighten Calitri. She looked outside one of the plane’s window and saw Danny getting up and hobbling towards Ramon, as he fired at the plane.

She sighed as she knew that the plane was bullet proofed. The plane headed out of the hanger and was soon in the sky.

Danny shook Ramon awake. “Where are they taking her?!” He yelled viciously.

“Milan! Milan, Italy! Oh, God! Help me please! She took my legs!”

“Who was that?!”

“Powers! Oh God, help me! She did this to me!”

Danny shoved Ramon onto the floor and glared outside at the sky.

Angelina Powers is the Raptor.

Wednesday, April 27th 11:04 a.m.

Briefing room

Downtown, Los Angeles

Mirage Industries-Front for Central Intelligence Agency: L.A Department

“If I didn’t know any better, I would think she enjoyed being captured!” Jack yelled at Danny, Kevin, and Jason, who were all sitting in silence.

“So know we know who the Raptor is.” McCulloch concluded from all the information that Ramon had provided.

“We need to act fast. I will not lose another agent! You two!” Jack screeched at Jason and Danny, who both jumped in their seats. “I want you both on the next flight to Milan! NOW!”

“Yes sir.” Danny acknowledged with a nod.

Jack walked out, obviously not hiding his anger. Kevin stared after him; he had yet to report his findings to McCulloch. He wasn’t able to complete his leak search, due to Mac’s disappearing act, and believed it wasn’t the time to mention his discussion with Jack to McCulloch yet. He needed the trace to be complete before he could do that. He hurried out to see if it was done.

Jason and Danny also stood up and proceeded to head out with Kenny.

“Donahue. A quick word.” McCulloch commanded and waited for Danny to leave.

“Yes sir?”

“It seems Jack is quite affected by this.”

“It seems that he is concerned for Mackenzie’s safety.”

“Or angered that the Raptor acted on pure impulse.”

“Or he could be acting.” Jason implied.

“Yes and we were blind to his activities for so long.”

“Do you know if Mackenzie knew? She was practically a daughter to him.”

“I don’t know, but be cautious when you find her. We have yet to determine her loyalties.”

“Murdock has faith that his daughter is innocent.” As do I. Jason pressed.

“Nevertheless, I want you to mention nothing to her until you bring her back. I want you in charge of this. I want Powers alive.”

“Once Powers is in custody, we will inform the CIA of all this. I want Jack in custody also when we present them with our findings.”

“I understand, it is better to have both Raptors, otherwise the other will disappear if the other is gone. What of Murdock? He said that he would be in Milan.”

“Don’t worry about him. He will do everything he can to help. I already informed him of everything.”

Jason and McCulloch had immediately talked after Jason’s meeting with Carter Murdock and both were informed of each others activities. Jason had discovered that McCulloch had already suspected Jack as Creed due to his previous relations with Murdock. The meet that McCulloch had with Jason early was only for show. There was no way for sure that Jack was watching or any of his other operatives were. The meet was for Jack, if he had been monitoring, to know that they suspected him, and thus force him to make a move. Powers quick reaction to kidnap Mackenzie and reveal herself as the Raptor was made as a rash action on her part, a mistake that would cost her.

For years, McCulloch had been working with Murdock, who was working with the CIA as an undercover agent, in finding Julius Creed. Murdock had reason to believe that Creed was alive and was embedded inside the CIA. With the help of McCulloch they were able to convince the Director of the CIA to investigate and create a plan to lure Creed out and reveal himself.

“Be careful, Donahue. This isn’t over yet.” He nods towards the door, indicting that he had to leave now.

2:11 p.m.

Milan, Italy

Still masked and in her Raptor uniform, Mac pointed her gun at Dieter, who was carry a still unconscious Angelina, and Calitri. They were walking down a long corridor of the large facility that they had landed at. She had ordered Dieter to call off all guards on the radio before they landed and in return she gave him her word that she would not kill him or his family and friends. Apparently, Dieter enjoyed life and was easy to switch his point of view once he saw that his life was in danger. When they had landed, she was pleased that Dieter had done what she ordered him to do, and now he grudgingly took her to where Alastar was located in the warehouse.

Dieter pointed to the door in which Alastar was said to be in.

“You did well. I thank you.” Mac nodded and Dieter looked somewhat pleased. “And now…” She turned to Calitri, who seemed scared the whole entire trip, and winked at him. Unexpectedly she round kicked Dieter in the face. He, as well as Angelina, slumped to the floor with a thud.

“Please continue inside Doctor. You’re patient is waiting.” Her left hand gestured to the door.

Nervous, Calitri opened the door and found Alastar lying on an operating table with an IV sticking from his arm, as well as other wires connected to a heart machine, and of course an IV that had morphine inside. There were two nurses in the room, who backed away when they saw a masked figure enter with the doctor.

“I want him talking again. I have some questions to ask. I believe you will find all you need in this room.” She nodded towards a cooler, which she assumed was an organ, and the nurses. “I will not harm you if you do as I ask.” Her voice was calm and gentle. The three medical personnel nodded uncertainly and Mac left the room to take move Dieter’s and Angelina’s body.

5:30 p.m.

Murdock finally arrived at the complex, after running other errands, and found himself nervous as he realized the guards were all gone. McCulloch had told him the Angelina had revealed herself as the Raptor and had arrived at Milan.

“Curious. Why would she return here?” He asked himself. “To find me? That would explain why they have Mackenzie…and now they both know of who I am.” He walked carefully inside the facility.

“How much longer until you’re done?” Mac asked Calitri. She remained on the side, in order not to infect any of Alastar’s open wounds.

“At least 3 hours.” Calitri replied, concentrating on the liver tissue before him. “I suggest you pass your time some other way.”

Mac shrugged and continued to watch and wait. She was trained to observe and wait for hours at a time. She was thankful for her training, but was beginning to wonder if her cause was just. She needed to find her father, and she believed that Alastar was the only one who really knew where he was.

She had searched the whole facility earlier, and found no one. Angelina would be of no help, she was a lackey and lackeys rarely knew anything, but then again…she did need to pass the time some other way.

5:45 p.m.

Carter was halfway around the facility when he saw something move across his line of vision. The Raptor’s boots echoed as she walked straight ahead of her. Carter had hidden himself, and waited for a bit until she had passed. She would most likely lead him to his daughter, so he decided to follow.

Mackenzie entered the room where she had locked Powers in. She had placed Dieter somewhere else in case they both awoke and decided to make some plans. She stood over the helpless body of Angelina, wondering what her place was in the organization. She slapped Angelina until she awoke.

“What the hell!?” Angelina awoke and backed herself against the wall.

“Well, I have to say, when you sleep, you sleep.” Mac tilted her head in amusement. “Tell me where the man who calls himself Iago Creed is.”

“I ain’t telling you anything, freak!” Her eyes defiant.

“I was hoping you would say that.” She backed away from Angelina. “Get up. I think I promised you an ass kicking, if I remember right.”

Angie blinked several times as she played that phrase over in her mind. “Mackenzie?” Her eyes grew wide with fear.

“Get up.” Mac neither confirmed or disconfirmed her accusation.

“Mac, honey, I did what I had to.” She began to plead, knowing that she was up against the Raptor.

“Shut up. Get up. I won’t repeat myself.”

“Mac, look, I don’t know where Creed is. I assumed that you would know, I mean he is who you take after right!?” She used the wall to help herself up.

“Honestly, I never thought you to be a coward. A worthless weasel…but a coward?” Mac laughs. “Really, now, Angie. I thought you were high class.” She mocked.

Angie curled her lip. “Let’s see whose the coward! None of your knives crap, Mac! Come on!” She placed her fists up.

Mac nodded with a smile. “Fine. We’ll see whose the best at last.” She placed her hands up before her. “Show me what you got, Ang.” A smirk lay hidden beneath her mask.

“Gladly!” Angelina screeched as she charged at Mackenzie.

Murdock listened against the door. Apparently, Mac and Angelina were now fighting. It sounded as if Mac had gotten the upper hand against Angelina. Nevertheless, the Raptor was deadly, and he wasn’t sure that his own daughter could take care of herself. He took out his gun and cocked it. He took a deep breath as he charged into the room.

Angelina’s face smacked against the concrete floor as Carter opened the door. Her blood splattered onto the floor from her mouth. She fell unconscious again and went limp.

He stood in amazement as he realized that the woman on the floor was not his daughter and the masked figure was not Angelina Powers.

Another realization hit him.

“Mackenzie?” He stood, staring at the masked figure that appeared to have not grown tired from her quick battle against Powers.

Mackenzie, whose attention was at Angelina, quickly averted to her father. “You!” She snarled.

“Mac…” His eyes were filled with sadness and disappointment. “Why?”

“You’re asking me that?! What about you?! You’re the one whose creating a chemical weapon! You killed Creed!”

He shook his head, gun pointed at his flesh and blood. “You don’t understand. I was using this organization to lure Creed out.” Tears formed in his eyes. “Jack is Creed, Mackenzie!”

Mac took a step back. “What?”

“He’s using you.”

“I don’t believe you!” She screamed, as she unleashed her claws.

“Please, Mackenzie, don’t make me.” He leveled his gun and showed no hesitation of firing.

“How could you Daddy?”

“You have to understand that truth takes time. Please, put those away. Let’s talk.”

“No!” She shook her head. Her tears could be seen glistening down the open eye holes. “I can’t.” She held her head, which was telling her to kill, whilst her heart told her not to. “I can’t”

“Mac, baby, please.” He soon realized the possibility that Jack may have brainwashed her.

“Daddy. I’m sorry.”

“Me too, baby.” His finger tightened on the trigger. “I love you.”

Hearing that, she retracted her claws. “Daddy.” She fell to the floor, crying.

Dropping his gun, Carter ran to his daughter, knelt, and comforted her in a hug.

“I’m so sorry.”

“Shh…I know. We’ll work this out.” He told her.

The father and daughter sat on the floor, embraced in each others arms.

Angelina’s eyes opened wide. It took her a moment to realize where she was and what had happened. She saw Carter’s gun in front of her and slowly grabbed it. Moving quietly, she rotated her torso, and placed her weight onto her right arm, while her left held the gun firmly between her fingers and palm.

“I’ll show you whose a coward, bitch.” She snarled out with a scream.

Mac’s eyes grew wide as she saw Angelina pull the trigger. Within seconds, she felt her father’s body jump as the bullet pierced his back.

“No!!” She screamed, as his eyes drew dark and his body fell backwards. Before Angelina could fire again, Mac pushed her father aside and jumped in a horizontal leap at her. Angelina, rolled left to avoid, Mac, but failed.

Mac fell on top of Angie’s hip and grabbed her left hand, which held the gun. Fighting for the gun, Angelina tried desperately to fire it into Mac’s head. Mac’s eyes had grown deadly as she pressed her palms together to unleash her claws.

“Bitch!” She screamed, and stabbed Angelina in her side, who screamed in agony as she felt the metal slice into her kidney. Mac was then elbowed in the face, but she kept on her attack.

Feel no pain! She recalled Jack’s training. When you are the Raptor, you must feel no pain. It’ll weaken you and give your opponent the advantage. Strike! Strike hard!

“Strike!” Mac repeated out to no one. “Strike!” She plunged her claws into Ang’s side continually, until her hold on the gun weakened and Mac could easily fling it aside.

Angelina tried to grab Mackenzie’s neck, but the pain in her side was causing her to lose her vision. She knew she was dying. Mac slapped Angelina’s hands aside and continued to butcher the body. Feeling that the body had grown limp, Mac finally realized what she had done. She glanced down at a mutilated Angelina Powers. Freaked out, she jumped off the body and ran to her father, who amazingly was still alive, but his breathing was growing weaker.

“Dad!” She rushed to his side.

Carter gave her a comforting smile. “Don’t let him win.” He wheezed. “I love you.”

Mac made a nervous smile. “I got you Dad.” She grabbed her father’s waist and carefully dragged him to Calitri.

Calitri snipped the extra wires for Alastar’s stitches, when Mac burst in.

“Help him!” She pleaded. “He was shot in the back. The bullet didn’t come out! Please, help him!” She cried out. The nurses rushed to Carter, while Calitri cleared a table so they could place him upon it. The three women dragged Carter and placed him on the table, with his stomach facing down.

“Please! My God, help him!” Mac spluttered out, not realizing how much she was crying.

“We’ll do our best, but please let us work.” One of the nurses pushed Mac out of the room.

10:50 p.m.

Mac sat slouched against the wall that faced the door. They have been operating on her father for the pass four hours. One of nurses would come out and inform her of the situation, but would not tell her if he would survive or not. It was either, “We got the bullet,” or “He’s lost a lot of blood and we cannot tell at this time.”

As her father was sprawled on the table, outside Mac began to contemplate all that had happened the past several years. Her father was right; she had allowed Jack to manipulate her into doing unthinkable evils. She stared at the armbands that contained the Tiger Claws that she herself had built and for once she hated them. The claws that gave her comfort and vengeance had finally become the very things she despised. She angrily pulled them off, as well as her mask.

The door opened and one of the nurses came out. She was surprised that Mac’s face was uncovered and that Mac looked no older than 25.

“We were able to save him, but unless we get him to a real hospital, there’s no guarantee that he’ll last the night.”

Mac nodded slowly.

“He’s sleeping now, but would you like to see him?”

Mac raised her eyes and met the nurses, who seemed to understand the importance of Carter to her. Mac rose from the wall and walked in. Calitri and the other nurse were cleaning the area, while the one who had informed Mac of her father’s condition, brought a pillow to place under his head.

Mackenzie stood beside her father and took his hand.

“I’m sorry Dad.” She spoke softly. The other three in the room raised their head as they heard what she said--he was her father. They left her to her corner as they went to check on Alastar, who was sleeping nicely.

“I’ll make Jack pay for what he did to our family. I promise dad.” She kissed his forehead, when she suddenly heard a blast come from the entrance of the facility. “You’ll be okay now. I’ll see you soon, but not before I see Jack.” Mac turned to face the three people that saved her father. “Don’t worry. You’ll be safe. The guys coming won’t hurt you. Thank you, Doctor Calitri. Your kindness for my father will not be forgotten.” She quickly left the room and grabbed her mask and Torashukos.

Jason and Danny had spilt when they blasted the front doors apart. Taking several men each, they both ran down separate corridors.

Mac placed on her mask and Torashukos as she ran down the corridor. Having already explored the facility, Mac had memorized several other alternative exits besides the front. She continued to run but stopped when another corridor merged with her’s and Jason was running within the connected path.

“Oh Crap.” She whispered as Jason spotted her and increased his speed. Mac continued on her course as she heard Jason skid into her corridor.

“Stop!” He yelled at her.

A small smirk appeared on her face. Yeah, like when did that get anyone to stop?

She continued to increase her running speed as she made a sharp left turn. Jason followed suite, while his men tried best to follow, but were lost when Mac made several more turns. She thanked the facility for being so massive and maze-like.

11:11 p.m.

Los Angeles, California

Mirage Industry-Front for the Central Intelligence Agency: Los Angeles Department

Kenny had stayed overtime in order to complete the trace search on his computer. Everyone had left the complex, except those of Security Personnel. McCulloch had gone home briefly to pick up some files, and so Kevin was left alone.

He typed furiously on his keyboard as he tried to decipher the images on his computer. Several matches were made to be the one who could have switched the original photo of Julius Creed, and so Kenny typed again to narrow it down. He turned briefly to take a sip of his 12th cup of coffee, when he computer beeped in excitement. Kevin placed his cup down as he saw a young Jack Slightman’s picture staring back at him.

“No. It’s not possible…” Kevin gaped in disbelief.

“Oh, but unfortunately for you it is.” Jack’s cold voice whispered behind Kevin.

Kevin turned around and was met with Jack in a black uniform and six gleaming claws hanging from his sides.

“No…Jack…please…don’t!”

“I’m sorry Kevin, but I can’t have you ruin this for me!” Jack growled and lunged at him.

11:11 p.m.

Milan, Italy

Panting and heaving, the Raptor ran through the corridors with all her might. Following closely behind her, with his gun drawn, Jason tried to catch up to her.

One thought occupied his mind: Don’t let her escape!

With her mask on, the Raptor tried her best to lose Jason. Dammit, this boy is fast! She thought to herself as she ran. She dared not to look back, knowing that he was close, and she feared what might happen if he did catch her.

The Raptor kept running; her eyes quickly scanned the area around her, trying to remember which hallway to take for her getaway. She made an unexpected and sharp turn into another hallway, and bounced off the wall that she had skidded against, trying not to lose her speed. She headed down the hallway, realizing that she had made the wrong turn; she had no idea where she was now and she could hear Jason panting not too far behind her.

The Raptor suddenly skidded to a stop. She tried to open the door that was closest to her, but it was locked. Crap!

“Freeze!” Jason yelled out; he had finally caught up and now he aimed his gun at the Raptor. “Turn around. Slowly.” His face was hot as sweat dripped down.

The Raptor sighed as she raised her hands up and slowly turned to face Jason, but kept her head low.

“On your knees. Arms on your head.” He ordered her. The Raptor obediently did so, never raising her head to look at Jason.

Jason looked down at her angrily and pointed the gun at her head.

“Where is she?!” His voice was calm, but The Raptor could hear the anger behind it. “I ask again, where is she?”

The Raptor kept her silence.

“WHERE THE HELL IS SHE?!” His voice had risen and he no longer hid his anger. The Raptor continued her mime game, but her breathing had gotten louder. Tension between them grew as the Raptor contemplated on what she should do.

“WHERE’S MACKENZIE MS. POWERS?!” Jason yelled, drilling the gun’s barrel into her head.

I don’t want to hurt you Jason…please…don’t make me. Don’t make me.