Scott's profileMePhotosBlogListsMore  |  Tools Help |
|
|
August 19 24: CTUNY: 3:45PM-3:50PM3:46:03
The Bronx, New York City
Click. click, click.
Interesting.
*Ring Ring Ring*
Seemingly annoyed, she picked up the phone.
"Yes."
"We have a problem. Whatever you do, do not expose yourself. It will ruin everything."
"What about Christopher?"
The woman nodded to herself as she typed. "You said there was a problem."
"Yes. A Jack Bauer is on his way to New York City." The man paused. "I won't ask again. What about Christopher?"
The woman tapped on her keyboard. "Agent Christopher is isolated. Once the information I send out, he'll be isolated. As far as Jack Bauer? I'll deal with that."
Nina Myers hung up her phone.
Jack, you're dead. July 01 24: CTUNY: 3:30PM-3:45PM3:31:11
Mike nodded. "What else can you tell me about him?"
"You remember when President Palmer was running for office? The incident in Los Angeles during the California primary?"
Mike nodded. "Yeah. Two assassination attempts. So?"
Tim sipped from his water bottle as they entered his office. He closed the door. "Sit down," he motioned. Mike did as he was told. Tim turned on his computer and logged in.
"Widowed, his wife, Terri was murdered by former CTU agent Nina Myers. He and is daughter Kim were estranged for a time, but recently began reconciliation. She graduated from Santa Monica College with a computing degree, and was just hired as a level one analyst at CTU Los Angeles. No doubt her father pulled strings.
"Former Army, Delta Force, attended UC Berkely for criminology, English and Literature UCLA, former LAPD in Special Weapons and Tactics. Was head of CTULA until his wife's death.
"Confidential: He resigned CTU soon after his wife's death. He was recalled and helped solve the nuclear threat in Los Angeles. He even offered to give his own life to detonate the device in the Mojave Desert."
"Damn. Who took the plane down?"
"Man named George Mason. Appearantly, he was exposed to radiation at the site where the bomb was held, and from what Bauer reported, Mason snuck on board, convinced Bauer to let him take the plane down. He only had days to live after exposure. The President personally saw to ensure whomever took the plane down, his family would be provided for."
"Anything else?" Mike polished off his water.
Tim nodded. "He's like you. a maverick. You two should work well together. Guy should have been kicked out of government service, but he has friends in high places. Saving the President gives you that option. I haven't spoken to President Palmer yet, and in the past, he's supported Bauer in the past on field calls, even allowing circumvention of CTULA's recommendations."
"I already like the guy," Mike simply said.
"I'm going to say this: If you two go out in the field, you two need to follow chain of command. I know you. I know your record, and with what I have just told you, just be careful. Try not to give us hell, ok?"
"Understood, and thanks for the brief." Mike paused. "I still want to make the meet."
Shaking his head, "Out of the question."
"You just basically said I have a field decision, plus I need to go through chain of command. I'm doing it. If I'm going to work with this guy, I want to evaluate him first hand."
Tim nodded. "Ok, fine."
3:43:33 24: CTUNY: 2:30PM-2:35PM (Jack's View)2:30:55
Joe Foss Field Airport
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Jack Bauer sipped on his coffee. It was funny, but he felt like he needed more.
Dammit, not now, he thought to himself. When I get to New York, I'll get a fix. Shaking slightly, he opened up his laptop, and did some research.
He opened a file on his portable computer.
Confidential:
Michael David Christopher
Date of Birth: January 1, 1970
Cumberland, Maryland
Parents:
James Richard Christopher (Deceased)
Mary Margaret McDougall (Deceased)
Jack continued to read.
Former Marine. Ex-NYPD.
He read on.
"I like this guy," he said to himself.
Jack's flight was called. He packed up his computer, and boarded his flight. A stop in Minneapolis, and then he was set.
2:34:05 May 27 Oops...Forgive MEForgive me, my readers on something REALLY wrong with my 24.
Mike Novick, between Season 2 and 3 (where I have based my story timeline wise) was NOT Palmer's advisor, but WAYNE PALMER would have been his advisor.
Tho, this would have been considered fan fiction in the first place, I have not willingly led the fans of the show (or new ones) astray.
This is just PURELY a stupid clerical mistake on my part. Honestly?:
I am writing this puppy by the seat of my pants. I do HAVE a basic storyline I AM following, but all of the dialogue and action pretty is by the seat of my pants.
The CLIMAX is going to be around midnight and an hour or two afterwards. That has, and always will be the plan. Having something happen at that time in the place I've set my story in is the key. I'm having a J. Michael Strazcynski moment. If you do not know who he is, watch Babylon 5. He created that show, and like 24, it was groundbreaking. At times in his show, he gives predictions of future events. His reasoning is, "It's curious to see them, but it's more fun to see how you get there." I'm kind of paraphrasing, but that's his idea.
That's what I've done..I've given away something. It's the ride to the end of the rollercoaster I'm going to do now. If you have liked my story so far, col beans. If not, cool beans. This has been theraputic to me, for many health reasons. Why I am writing this.
Scott May 20 24: CTUNY: 3PM-3:20PMTHE FOLLOWING TAKES PLACE BETWEEN 3PM AND 4PM.
3:00:32
David Palmer wasn't happy. His speech at the Rockefeller Center had been delayed for hours as it was. "Is everything set?" he asked Mike Novick.
"Yes, sir. You're on in five minutes."
"Good."
3:02:02
Mike entered the interrogation room. Already, it seemed that the medical unit was doing its business.
DAMMIT! he thought to himself. He walked up to Tim.
"What happened?"
"Cyanide pill. Bastard had one in his tooth it seems. Dammit, he was our only lead on anything!" Mike put his hand on Tim's shoulder.
"Lisa says she knows more, but she's resting. I think she knows more than what she's telling us. When is this agent Bauer suppposed to be iin New York?"
Tim looked at his watch. "Barring flight delays, he should land at 6pm. Why?"
"I want to do the meet and greet."
Tim shook his head. "Out of the question."
3:05:11
David Palmer walked up to the podium. As usual, cameras were flashing. He took a sip of water, and then spoke.
"My fellow Americans, please pardon me for the delay of this town hall meeting that I've scheduled.
Today, National Security was violated. A flight from New York to Paris suffered an attempted hijacking. Thankfully, it returned safely. The suspects are currently being questioned.
That is all I can discuss about the current situation. Now, I wish to discuss my proposal for child care..."
3:10:02
"Why?" Mike asked.
Tim sighed. "Let's walk. I need some water." Mike followed.
Tim placed some change into the vending machine. Bottled water was served. Mike did the same.
"I need you here Mike, or if I need an agent to investigate something, I want you on the front lines." He took a sip of water.
Mike nodded. "You know this Bauer?"
Tim nodded. "A little bit. You guys will be working together. He's a loose cannon from what I know of him, but so are you, Mike. Unlike him, you know the streets here. You guys need to be a team."
Mike opened his own water bottle, and drank. "Anything else?"
"No. Once Bauer gets here, I'll set the ground rules with him. I just wanted you to know that he's unorthodox."
Mike nodded. "Understood."
3:18:45
"...and I conclude with this thought. I will do everything in my power to help the working man. The government will find out what happened at Sago.
Thank you."
3:20:00 May 18 24: CTUNY: 2:46PM-3:00PM2:46:00
"Dammit," Mandy thought to herself. Thankfully, the cell-phone she was using was one of those "rechargable" ones; ones you find at convience stores that use the charge cards. She destroyed the phone, and dialed a number on another phone.
"Yes," a deep male voice said. The accent seemed to be Eastern European.
"He's dead, but not the woman."
"Will this keep CTU busy?"
"Yes. They still have Klaus. That poses a problem."
"No. Stefan will not break. He knows what to do."
"And the woman?"
"What she knows is only a small part. In fact, that was the plan. We keep them occupied, they won't know what hit them."
2:49:12
"Jesse, I want you to mine Dane's system and logs. Find out what the hell he was doing. If you have to, go back a few days. No telling what he was doing," Mike said to the computer expert. Tim looked at Mike after the order was given. "I'm going to talk to this Stefan Klaus. You check on your sister." Mike nodded.
Tim tapped the keys to the interrogation room and walked in. He noticed the room was cleaned up some, although Klaus still had blood on his face.
"Your friend is dead. He didn't complete the job. Lisa lives."
Stefan looked at Braddock hard, then began to quiver. White foam oozed out of his mouth. Tim leapt to the falling German and began yelling, "MEDIC!" He began pumping Stefan's chest, but knew it was of no use. The man was dead.
2:52:03
Mike entered the medical facility, and saw Lisa was sitting up on a bed. She smiled to him. "Leg's going to be fine. I'll be on crutches for awhile, but no major damage."
"Good. Any idea why Dane would want to kill you?" Mike asked.
Lisa shook her head. "No. None. Never met him before until today. Why?"
Mike nodded. "Just strange. We're mining his system to see if he has anything. Just sent a team to his apartment to check his home system, and pretty much anything we can find." He looked at Lisa, "Why don't you rest for about a half hour or so, let the docs take care of you. I only ask this: Is there anything else you can tell me, sis?"
Lisa shook her head as she lay back down. "Not at the moment. Let me clear my mind some, and we can talk, ok?"
Doctor Terry Dubbledee spoke, "Mr. Christopher? Mr. Braddock is trying to reach you, sir."
Mike nodded. "Fine." He flipped open his phone, and dialed. He was surprised on what he heard.
"Mike, the son of a bitch had a suicide pill."
"What?" He snarled. "DAMMIT!"
3:00:00
May 15 24: CTUNY: 2:35PM-2:45PM2:35PM
Lisa looked up to Dane, "Why are you doing this? I don't even know you." She clenched her teeth, biting back the pain.
Dane's voice quivered, "I said, shut UP!" Sweat was on his brow, even though it was twenty degrees out.
"Dane! Drop the gun, NOW!" Dane looked around, and saw he was surrounded.
He looked down, but held the gun firm. "You'll have to kill me! I swear, Mike, I'll kill her!"
Mike yelled out, "I know! Right now, all I want to know is what you want." Mike surveyed the scene. He managed to catch Lisa's eye, and shook his head, nodded down, cocked his head to the left.
Lisa caught Mike's signal, but said, "Dane, why? This is insane."
Dane's voice quivered, "I told you to shut UP. Do you want another bullet in you? Keep on talking."
Lisa looked at her surroundings with her eyes. "Dane, look out!" She pointed left.
Dane was dumb enough to look, and Lisa rolled under the Suburban that was near her. She heard a shot, and an cry of pain. She pulled out her cell and sped-dialed a number. "CLEAR!"
Mike nodded. "CLEAR CLEAR! CLEAR!"
CTU agents converged towards Dane. Unfortunately, they found a body.
Mike yelled out, "Lisa!" He heard a voice, "Under here, dammit!" She slided herself out slowly from underneath of a car.
Mike knelt down. "Are you ok?" He helped her, as the medics rushed up with a gurney.
"Yeah."
2:45:02
May 08 24: CTUNY: 2:25PM-2:33PM2:25:03
Lisa walked out of the building of Counter-Terrorist Unit, and suddenly fell down.
Svwreep!
The bullet hit her in the left thigh. It took her a moment to realize that the gunshot came from behind. She began to reach for her cell phone.
"Don't even think of it, bitch."
Lisa turned her neck, and saw Dane Carlin. She noticed the gun pointed at her. "Dane."
Dane's voice quivered. "Don't make me kill you."
2:29:34
Mike looked at Stefan hard in the eyes, and walked out of the interrogation room. He looked at the guard's badge.
"Agent Robert Phillips?"
Robert Phillips was a decorated Marine who was on the offensive during the initial push on Baghdad during the Iraq War. Thirty in age, he was still sending his pension to his ex-wife, Rhonda in Lincoln, Nebraska.
"Yes sir."
"Report to me if the suspect has any information. He might be vocal and violent. Do you need to do if that happens."
Phillips nodded. "Understood, sir. Who should I contact if I cannot reach you?"
"Tim Braddock."
Robert looked at Mike. "Why are you ordering this, sir? And is it authorized?"
Mike thought to himself, and came to a decision.
"Robert, the man in that room you are guarding has threatened this country. You aren't cleared for the information, I will say that it involves national security."
Robert nodded. "Aye, sir. I understand, sir."
The alarm rang.
"What the hell?"
2:33:13
May 07 24: CTUNY: 11:15AM-12:00PM (Pacific Time)11:17:03
Counter Terrorist Unit
Los Angeles, California
Jack looked at Tony. "How soon can I go to New York?"
Tony's eyes widened. "No, Jack. It's their problem. Let CTU in New York handle it."
Jack shook his head. "Tony, you know damned well that I know this case. Right now, their only asset with knowledge of the case just revealed herself." He paused. "Besides, you know what I plan on doing within the next week concerning the Salazaars." Jack looked Tony in the eye.
Tony nodded. "Yeah." He reached for the phone, and dialed a number. He motioned to Jack, "I'm booking your flight now. District isn't going to like this. I don't, either, but it's your case. We'll deal with the paperwork later, ok?" He paused. "Yes, get me Tim Braddock in New York."
Jack simply said, "Fine. I can deal with that."
* * *
2:20:52 (Eastern Standard Time)
Counter Terrorist Unit
New York City
Tim Braddock's phone was ringing. He finished sipping his coffee and picked up the phone. "Braddock."
"Sir, a Mister Almeida from Los Angeles wishes to speak to you." Tim nodded to himself. "Put him through."
"Mr. Braddock, this is Tony Almeida. Jack Bauer is on his way to New York to try to help on your situation."
"Why?"
"He's Lisa Christopher's contact. Jack says that they kept their information close to their chest. Ryan Chappelle up in our District Office has been briefed. If he says it's a go, it's a go. He's by the book, Tim."
Tim nodded. "Yeah, I know Ryan." Tim sipped his coffee. "When is Jack to arrive?"
"I just had him booked on the 12:45PM flight, so I'd say, barring any airport issues, he'll be there around 6:00PM your time. Call me if you have any questions."
Then the alarm sounded.
"What the hell is that?" Tony asked on his end of the line.
"Tim stood up. "Let me get back to you." He hung up the phone.
2:27:05 April 15 24: CTUNY: 2:25PM-2:30PM2:25
Stefan Klaus smiled. Dumb bitch. He sat smiling, even though the drugs in his body burned.
Mike entered he room. He picked up the lone free chair, sat down in front of the German and picked up an exacto knife. He took it, flashed it in front of Stefan. He took the knife, and cut it across his palm, and blood fell, drop by drop onto the table.
Mike looked into Stefan's eyes. "Next cut. It should be your fucking throat." Mike thrust. Instead Mike threw the knife away. He placed his uncut hand on Stefan's throat, knocking the German to the floor.
Stefan exhaled hard on the floor, looking up at the American. Eyes met eyes. Who would break?
Mike squeezed his fist, pumping like a heart. It was controlled. Drip drop. Drip drop.
Each drop fell on Stefan's forehead. "That, is a drop from my sister. My blood. She's dead."
Stefan just laughed. "Just keep dropping your little teardrops, Mr. Christopher. She's assuredly dead." He paused. "Instead of playing with me, you should see if she's even alive." April 02 24: CTUNY 2:10PM-2:22PM2:10:03
"You heard the President, let's do our jobs." Tim Braddock said. "Mike, Lisa; stay," Tim said as the room cleared.
Mike and Lisa sat down. "Now what?" Mike said.
"You tell me."
After a moment, Lisa finally said, "I want to go back undercover."
"Why, and more importantly, how?" Mike asked.
"I know the network of people, Mike. They want to do something big. Make Times' an example..as they put it." Lisa grabbed Mike's hand. "Don't worry, brother. I'll be back."
Tim nodded. "Makes sense." He looked at Mike. "I know you're not comfortable with it, Mike, but it has to be done." Mike nodded. "I know." He paused. "Can I have a moment, Tim?"
Braddock nodded. "No problem. I should go see how Marge is doing, anyway."
After the door closed, Mike said, "Are you sure you want to do this?"
Lisa nodded. "I have to, Mike." She hugged him.
"Like the President said, we need to do our jobs," Mike said. "I hate this, but I know."
2:19:03
Dane Carlin saw Lisa leave the Director's office. "Jesse, can you watch my station? I need to use the loo."
"Sure, man. Just don't shake it too much."
Dane smiled at the joke. When he was alone, he dialed a number on his cell phone.
"She just left the Director's office."
The female voice said, "Good. Kill her."
"What?"
"She knows too much. Besides, if you still want your money, and pleasure, this is your chance."
2:22:44 March 20 24: CTUNY 2:00PM-2:10PMTHE FOLLOWING TAKES PLACE BETWEEN 2:00PM AND 3:00PM.
2:01:02
"Mr. President, we're about to land." Palmer nodded. Mike Novick approached and whispered, "Mr. President, CTU is on the phone."
Palmer nodded in silence. He picked up the phone. "Yes?"
"Mr. President, this is Michael Christopher. We have some information about one of the potential highjackers from this morning."
"Let's have it."
Mike looked towards Lisa, then said, "Sir, we just finished a conference call with CTU in Los Angeles. It seems that one of the 'highjackers' was a CTU agent based there." Mike paused. "It happens to be my sister, sir. I'm setting up a conference call, sir. Hold on."
Lisa spoke, "Mr. President, my name is Lisa Christopher. I was recruited by a Jack Bauer in Los Angeles. We have an operation running that may have the possibility of breaking a possible weapons smuggling ring, sir."
"Go on."
Lisa continued, "Stefan Klaus, the man I was 'working' with is a lead to someone else. Possibly a lieutenant. Unfortunately, today's events may have done damage. New York may have been used to bring them in." She paused. "It could be nukes, chemical, biological. Pretty much anything."
"And the bombing?" Mike asked the question.
Lisa looked at her brother. "Jeff was my main lead to get to Stefan. Stefan said that unless I didn't kill Jeff, I wouldn't gain his confidence." She paused.
Palmer took in the information. "Is there a threat to New York?"
Lisa said, "There's a plan to do something when the ball drops. All I really know."
Mike looked to Tim. "I want to talk to Stefan. Mr. President, I know you have a speech soon. I suggest holding it back some. Another hour."
David Palmer said simply. "Out of the question. We land, my speech goes on. Do what you need to do, ladies and gentlemen. Get it done."
2:09:03 March 10 24: CTUNY 1:20PM-2:00PM1:22:34
Mike nodded. "Is there any way I can confirm this?"
"Yes, Tim said to let you make any calls you want, given the situation. He felt it best, instead of telling you. He knows how you are with things like this." Lisa handed him a contact card. "I can leave if you want---"
Mike flipped the card around in his fingers. "No, stay. We're in this together." He picked up the phone.
10:29:21(AM)
Los Angeles, Counter Terrorist Unit
Tony Almeida was sitting in his office, looking over some papers. It had been a quiet day in Los Angeles, this day. He'd been reading up on an incident in New York City concerning a flight being turned around several hours ago concerning possible terrorists being on board. In many ways, he was glad that New York tended to have that problem more often than Los Angeles, as it generally was much easier for possible terrorists to come through Europe than Asia.
Tony was of Latino descent, rugged looking, but handsome. His wife, Michelle definately tended to think so.
His phone rang, and he let it ring for several moments before picking it up. "Almeida," he said.
"Mr. Almeida, there is a Michael Christopher from the New York office who wishes to speak to you. He says it concerns an agent from Los Angeles."
Tony sighed. Dammit. "Ok, put him through." Just when the day was going to be quiet.
"Mr. Almeida?", the voice on the other end of the phone said. "Yes, this is Tony Almeida, Mr. Christopher. What can I do for you today?"
"Well, sir, it seems that one of your agents is here in New York. The agent in particular states she was undercover. And I'm sure you've been kept up on the news concerning a flight returning to the US?"
Tony nodded to himself, "Yes, Mr. Christopher. I saw the news, and have been reading the brief concerning the arrest. On any other day, I'd say good job on the arrest, but I'm afraid you might have complicated things here in Los Angeles."
"What?"
"One moment." Tony put New York on hold, and dialed another number. "Jack, you busy?"
"Not at the moment, Tony. What's up?", a husky voice replied.
"I need you up here. One of your operatives was compromised in a most unusual way." The other side of the line went click. Tony knew how Jack was. A minute later, Jack Bauer opened the door to Tony's office. "What's up?" Jack said as he sat down. Tony pressed a button. "Mr. Christopher, can we have a video conference?"
"Affirmative. I'll have the link set up."
Moments later, the conference was set up. Tim Braddock was also present, Tony noted. He nodded to Tim.
Tony said simply, "Ok, it seems all of the players are here, so now to the rules. This is confidential. Only we in this conference are privy to the information. Tim, I'm sorry about Marge. I'm sorry that you may not been up to speed like you should have been. So basically, this is where it is." Tony motioned to Jack.
"Mr. Christopher, Ms. Christopher, Mr. Braddock, there's been an operation on going for about a year known as Operation : Race. This operation began approximately a year and a half ago, soon after President Palmer was elected. I was sent to Juarez, Mexico, on a tip on a possible weapons smuggling ring that might use New York as a means to actually smuggle in weapons, have them picked up, and then driven around the nation, until they found their destinations."
Mike interrupted, "Ports?"
Jack nodded, "And other means. Now, Mr. Christopher--"
"Call me Mike,"
Jack smiled to himself, "Mike, thank you. I'll let your sister explain."
Mike looked at Lisa. Lisa said, "I was looking to have a job in psychology. On the job fair day prospective emplyoers were abound. I put it in as a joke, but because of you, Mike. I knew you just started CTUNY, and figured, what the hell." She paused to drink some water. She nodded to the screen. "Jack interviewed me."
"I always thought it was wierd your intern in Europe rather long. Then again, it makes sense. The company 'liked' you." Mike just said, "Let's get to the issue here. An attack on New York, President Palmer is supposed to land in the next hour. For now, that is our focus?"
Mike looked around in the room, and then to the screen that had Los Angeles patched in. Everyone nodded. "Approved."
Tony said before conference was closed, "Mike, if you would, inform the President? Considering your personal involvement, and the fact you were in charge of his security in New York for him."
Mike nodded. "I was relieved of that for personal reasons."
"Don't Worry."
2:00:00
March 05 24: CTUNY 12:35PM-12:50PM (Palmer's View)12:35:33
President Palmer received a bound booklet from Mike Novick "We will land in ten minutes, sir. We might need to push the speech to 3:30pm, if you approve. Air traffic concerns."
Palmer nodded his approval. "Could you get me some coffee?"
Coffee was served, and President Palmer opened the file.
Operation: Gemini 030471
Objective:
The Central Inelligence Agency has sanctioned that
relatives of Federal Officers may be approached
For clandastine operations if necessary.
Palmer flipped through the document. He read enough.
"I won't allow this. It's obsurd. And dangerous."
Novick nodded, "I know. If you need time--"
'No, I will not endorse this. Recruiting non-combatants is out of the question."
The phone rang. After a few seconds, Palmer picked it up. "Yes." He was silent for a moment. He looked at Novick, then said simply, "Approved."
The Presidnet hung up the phone, and stared. "I hope you'tr happy. Gemini, in this case, was activated."
12:50:03
March 04 24: CTUNY 1:12PM-1:20PM1:12:03
Mike just stared. Finally, he managed to say, "Why? When?"
Lisa looked at Tim. Braddock nodded. "I'll be on the floor if you need me." He opened up the door and left. She grabbed a chair, and sat down in front of her brother.
"It's not like what you think."
"What am I even supposed to think? A few hours ago, I was at your apartment. I was told you were dead. You're responsible for Jeff's death. You're a highjacking suspect. You also know information about a possible plot on Times Square." He gulped down the last of his drink, and set the glass back on the desk.
Lisa nodded. "I know. Why? Like you, I was recruited. As for when, I was approached by the government, but unlike you, I was recruited back at UCLA." She saw the look on his face. "I hate to say it Mike, but they DO recruit non-military. And thanks to you and Dad, I know how to use a gun. Those hunting trips paid off."
Mike nodded. "Was that when you said you were going to Europe for your internship?" Pieces started to fall together.
"Yes. All courtesy of the taxpayers."
1:20:35 24: CTUNY 1:00PM-1:10PMTHE FOLLOWING TAKES PLACE BETWEEN 1:00PM AND 2:00PM.
1:02:01
Mike entered the director's office, noticing Tim's back facing him. Noting his superior's demeanor, he simply said, "You wanted to see me?"
Tim nodded, still not facing him. He was silent for a moment, but finally spoke. "Mike, I know I don't have to explain the concept of sleeper agents, or even sleeper cells. You've been down that road. But what I'm about to tell you is strictly confidential. This comes from the office of the President himself."
"Understood."
Tim turned around, and said, "Make yourself a drink, Mike. You're going to need it." Braddock motioned towards the small wet-bar. He did as he was told. Mike made a Glenlivet and water, and sat down.
Mike sipped his drink, placed it down onto the desk. Tim sat down in front of him. "What is it, Tim? Cut through the bullshit."
Braddock picked up the phone. "Send her in."
1:09:23
The door behind Mike opened, and was shut. Tim knew Mike well enough that he would not break disciple to look behind him, unless instincts told him so. The skin on Mike's neck was crawling. Finally, he looked back.
Never in his life did Mike ever prepare himself for a moment like this.
"Lisa."
"Hello, Mike." March 03 24: CTUNY 12:30PM-1:00PM12:31:45
Agents Banks and Christopher met outside their respective holding cells. They compared notes quickly.
"Mike, Braddock needs to know, but we need something more substantial. I hate to say it, your sister is not exactly coherent. And your charge seems tight lipped. This could be a diversion."
Mike nodded, "Dammit, I know. It needs looking into. Come on, high profile target, mass casualties, international coverage. It would make sense." He paused. "I may need you in there."
"Why?"
"To make sure I don't kill the mother fucker."
* * *
Tim was led to where Marge was currently resting. Marge looked at him, with slight surprise on her face, but a smile crept into her eyes. "Hi," she said. Her voice was weak, but more from exhaustion than anything.
"Hey." He walked over, and placed his hand on hers. "How you doing?"
Marge swallowed, then reached for her water glass. Tim motioned her to stop, and he helped her. Finally, she said, "Been better. Doc's already said I need to rest. To stop pushing myself." She paused. "How'd you find out?"
Tim let her hand go, pulled up a chair and sat down. "Well, you want the sugar-coated version, or the bitter truth version?"
Marge laughed. "Dumb question." Tim smiled, and paused. "Well, truth is, I was called in to replace you. The suspects are now here at CTU---"
"Has Christopher been relieved of duty?"
Tim shook his head, "No. In fact, President Palmer insisted that despite both of our situations, Mike and I are ordered to follow this through." He rubbed his temples. "I've heard of Palmer's tenacity in situations like this, but to have two men under such duress---"
Marge nodded. "We really need to talk privately. If only for a few moments." She pushed the button to call the nurse. A moment later, a rather petite nurse entered the room, "Yes, Ms. Rebik?"
"I just wanted to let you know that my guest and I do not wish to be disturbed for about ten minutes. Am I scheduled for anything?"
The nurse took a look at the chart. "No. But do not stress yourself, Ms. Rebik. Five minutes, no more."
Marge conceded, "Agreed." When the nurse left, Marge said, "Since you have my job currently, there's a file you need to look at on my computer. Follow the instructions to the letter. And just pray Christopher can handle it."
12:45:21
Mike entered Stefan's room. He looked him in the eye. The door opened a second time, and Richard Banks entered. Agent Banks sat down in a chair. Stefan was as cold as a stone. No emotion. No reaction.
Mike said, "Who do you work for?"
Stefan just stared. Mike leaned over. He met the German's gaze. "The girl pretty much told us your plan. Sang it, I heard. We know about Time's Square. Sure, it might be a gaffe for the entertainment industry and the partiers might be bummed, but hell...even the Olympics got called off a few times." He stood up, and looked at Stefan.
12:55:33
Braddock went to his office and locked the door. He sat down in front of his computer, sliding his thumb on his biometric scanner. He tapped a few keys, and there was the file. He scanned it for a minute. He reached for his phone. "This is Director Braddock. I need Agent Chrisopher, and Lisa Christopher brought to my office."
He dialed a number. "I wish to speak to the President of the United States. This is Acting Director Timothy Braddock CTUNY. Authorization code Three-Zero-Four-One-Zeta. Tell him that Operation Gemini has been implemented. Awaiting instructions."
It took about one minute when Timothy heard what he needed to hear.
"Approved."
Poor Mike.
12:57:22
"Agent Christopher, a moment?", he heard in his ear.
Mike looked at Stefan. He pointed his finger at the German. His gaze did not leave until he reached the door.
"What is it?" Mike seemed testy to the guard.
"Forgive me, sir, but Director Braddock needs to see you right away."
Mike nodded.
February 24 24: CTUNY 12:00PM-12:30PMTHE FOLLOWING TAKES PLACE BETWEEN 12PM AND 1PM.
12:03:05
Mike had his hands laced together on the table, staring into the German's eyes. Stefan stared right back. It clearly was a test of wills. Mike sized the man up. Rather small for a terrorist, he thought. Finally, he spoke.
"What was your mission on that plane?"
Stefan stared back, silent.
"What connection did you have with the girl? No sense in lying. We have you on video together holding hands. Your name was flagged on the Homeland Security list." Stefan remained silent, almost smug.
Over the speaker, Braddock said, "Mike, don't do this."
Mike stood up, and went to the observation room.
"Tim--"
"Can it, Mike."
"Dammit, Tim, you heard the President. Both of us have personal issues with this case. You know damned well that I'm knee deep into this. Christ, I was at Lisa's apartment building this morning, and if it weren't for what I've done, this guy could have gone underground. Something's going on here. This guy's the key."
Braddock nodded. "You just better not let personal feelings get in the way, Mike."
Mike sighed. "Tim, trust me, I won't. I'll deal with whatever information Banks gets out of Lisa. This guy--I want to use any means necessary."
The phone rang. Tim pressed the speaker option. "Braddock."
"Mr. Braddock, this is medical. You wanted to be informed when Ms. Rebik was awake." Tim nodded. "Thank you."
Tim looked Mike in the eye. "If this turns into a fiasco, it's your ass."
Mike nodded. "I'm aware of that. You have to trust me, Tim. This guy smells of something. Just happens my little sister is involved somehow." Mike motioned to the door. "Go see Marge."
12:10:34
There Stefan sat, smiling. American fool, he thought. Then the door opened. Mike, and another man with what looked like a small briefcase entered the room.
Mike said, "Stefan Klaus, meet Chuck "Chucky" Andersen. Chucky is a Vietnam vet who served three tours in the Marines. He has a way with people. Were you in the military, Stefan?"
Mike knew right away that Stefan had served once. "Good. That means, when Chucky says talk, you talk. If not, you feel pain." Mike motioned for Mr. Andersen to begin his work.
The prick of the needle found a vein in Stefan's left arm, and he twitched ever so slightly. After a minute, Mr. Andersen looked at Mike, and simply nodded. He left the room.
Stefan finally said, "You Americans...such fools. Wait until the ball drops, then you will know chaos."
12:15:02
Lisa was singing:
"Rock a bye baby, the cradle will rock,
"When the bomb breaks, the cradle will go boom,
"Bye bye,
"Bye bye,
"Boom!"
Lisa was singing and swaying with her rants. Occasionally, she said, "Hey you, don't make it bad...lalalalla...see the big bomb come under your skin....lalalala...
"Brooklyn Bridge is falling down, falling down
Brooklyn Bridge is falling down,
So is Time's Square!"
Oh my GOD! thought Richard Banks. Once he knew that Mike was interrogating the other suspect, he left the interrogation room. "Get me Agent Christopher, pronto!"
12:18:01
"What the hell do you mean, chaos?"
"Chaos..you know...where everything falls apart in your way of life. Are you that stupid, American?"
Mike looked at Stefan hard. "What is your goal? I swear to God, I will start hurting you."
He heard in his earpiece, "Mike, this is Richard. We might have a lead."
12:25:01 February 23 24: CTUNY 11:30AM-12:00PM11:35:21
"Braddock."
"Mr. Braddock, the suspects from Flight 2313 are enroute to CTU. They should arrive within ten minutes," Richard Banks said on speakerphone.
"Thanks, Rich. We'll talk soon." He hung up the line.
Mike stood up, and headed towards the door. "I suppose I should get down to holding."
Tim held up his hand. "Mike, I think it would be wise for you to not be around for the actual interrogation. You can see her, but that's it. Let Rich handle the talk."
Mike nodded. "Before I go in to talk to her, I'll brief Rich. She's stubborn as hell."
"Stubborn enough to not talk?" He looked hard at Mike. He nodded. "Let me guage her. She sounded pretty rattled when I spoke to her last. She could break rather easily."
Tim nodded. "Noted."
11:42:33
Lisa was staring at the floor, silently. The van carrying her and several CTU agents stopped at the gate. Stefan is in the van behind us, she thought to herself. God, I hope Mike can get me out of this.
The van continued on, and stopped for good. "Let's go," Richard Banks ordered. He and another agent led Lisa towards the holding area. He swiped his ID, and typed some keys to unlock the door. Leading Lisa into the room, he simply said, "Sit." She complied. Banks left the room through another door.
Mike was in the observation room, looking at Lisa through the one-way mirror. He studied her carefully. "How was she on the way in?"
Banks said, "Rather quiet. She seemed to fidget quite a bit, but never really took interest in her surroundings. Stared at the floor most of the time."
Mike nodded. "When she was in trouble with mom and dad, that's exactly how she used to react." He looked back at her. "Wait a minute."
Lisa was staring right at the glass. Her expression was suddenly disciplined, unreadable. "She knows I'm here. I've never seen her look like that before."
Banks said, "What do you mean?"
"Look at her eyes. It's like she's...I don't know, really. Unafraid." Mike headed towards the door, "I'm going to talk to her." He tapped the keycode, and entered the room. Mike locked eyes with her, as though it was a staredown of wills. He took the chair in front of her, and sat down.
Lisa finally spoke, "I'm not saying anything until Wes gets here."
Mike replied, "He's out of town, sis. Believe me, I tried."
"I said I'm not talking until he gets here, I have my rights! Don't lie to me!"
Mike nodded, "Yes you do, but dammit, sis. Whatever the hell's going on, I can't help you. I don't know what game you've been playing, but the penalty for losing this one is steep---"
"I know what the consequences are! I'm not saying anything until Wes gets here."
Mike sighed, and stood up. "I'll be back later."
Lisa's voice finally seemed to crack. "Where you going, Mike? Stay here!" He shook his head. "I can't, sis. This is too personal. I can only be there as your brother. Nothing else."
She began sobbing, "Don't let them hurt me," she whispered through tears.
Mike closed the door behind him. He looked at Agent Banks. "She may or may not talk. She's trying to act tough, but I think once I told her what could happen, she cracked. If you need to get tough on her, she might just talk with drug inducement. Braddock wants me off the case, and so I'm off."
Mike left the room. He walked down the hall to another door. He nodded to the guard. "I need to speak to the prisoner," he said.
The guard nodded, and keyed the door.
Stefan was very much more cool and collected than Lisa was. Mike sat down in front of him, his voice even, but edgy. "You're going to tell me what you know."
12:00:00
February 11 24: CTUNY: 11:20AM-11:30AM11:20:34
"Delta Flight 2313, please return to gate Delta Terminal Three Alpha...Repeat, Delta Terminal Three Alpha, over?"
"La Guardia, this is Delta 2313, we copy."
* * *
Security was rather tight at Delta Airlines Gate 3-A. Raul noticed the commotion. However, he sat, like a good traveller should. He had his backpack close. If anyone asked, he was a Spaniard awaiting to join some friends up in Greenwich. Then his heart stopped.
He noticed a woman led off with authorities. He also noticed that a man was apprehended as well.
SHIT! he thought to himself. He made a choice.
He went to a pay phone, and dropped in the change needed. "Call me," is all he said. A beep in his right pocket of his denim jacket rang.
He moved to a place away from passerbys before he answered.
"Call it off. She is caught. So is Stephan. I saw them. FBI or someone has them."
A calm, but deep male voice on the other side of the line simply said, "They're doing their jobs. Unfortunately, our objective has changed. Stay alert."
"Aye, sir."
11:27:31
Mandy's phone rang. She hated it when it rang. It meant that something was wrong. She picked it up. "Yes?"
A deep male voice said simply, "There's a change of plans. I will add one-quarter to your fee, if you agree to it."
Mandy smiled to herself. Fool. "What is my new objective?"
The male voice stated, "Same as before. Different time."
"Understood."
11:30:00 |
|
|
