A second season story...  and the sequel to my story The Bunker.

 

 

Shanghaied

 

by Lynn

 

 

Story picks up at the final scenes of The Bunker...

 

Lee arrived in Pearl and spent several hours in a comprehensive debriefing as every fine detail was rendered and clarified.  He provided a diagram of the bunker, though with the dead ninja outside the Premier would no doubt consider the safe house compromised and use another option.  Upon Johnson's satisfaction that he had obtained all relevant information, Lee had been ordered to the Base Hospital for his physical clearance.  He was finally cleared for action and released to duty in what had amounted to a very busy and tiring day.  It would feel good to put away his ONI hat and concentrate on his crew and Seaview's repairs.  He hadn't allowed himself to think about Chip or Jamie up until now, and wondered about their conditions.  Something he would check on right away, he decided as he was handed a garment bag and smiled.   Someone from Seaview had supplied his uniform and he was sure he knew who that someone was.

 

Lee emerged from the examination room wearing his service blues and flashed a smile upon seeing Harry.

 

“Hello Sir,” he offered sincerely.

 

“Welcome home, Lee.  How do you feel?”

 

“Oh a little tired I guess and pretty sore.  Did I ever tell you how much I hate ninjas?” He said with a grin as he tucked his cover under his arm and opened the door for Harry.

 

“A time or two,” Harry quipped sporting his own grin, as the two left satisfied knowing that Dr. Gamma's bluff had been called and that the secrets of the bunker had been discovered in time to put an end to his plans. 

 

* * * * *

 

In another bunker, on another island... a clean-shaven bald man wearing a velvet green smoker's jacket sat in the dark, sulking for his failed plan.  He took a swig of dark liquid from his oversized brandy glass then curled his bottom lip and threw the goblet into the fireplace as the fire responded with a flash of flames.  Someday Crane... Someday, he thought darkly... and then smiled deviously. 

 

* * * * *

 

Six Months Later...

 

 

Lee smiled openly at Chip Morton whistling to himself.  Whistling in the Control Room!  He stole a look across the deck to Sparks as the two shared a silent chuckle at the odd behavior of Seaview's Executive Officer.  The XO's quiet whistle between his teeth wasn't missed by the Ratings either, but none were brave enough to do anything more than share a quick glance with the seaman sitting beside them.  It was all so unusual but not inexplicable.  Chip had been riding high ever since he got brave enough to ask Monica Felton to marry him last December, that was two months ago and the guy was still so happy he was flying without a kite.*

 

Suddenly the whistling stopped as Lee returned his eyes to the Chart Table meeting Chip's furled eyebrows.

 

“What?” He asked, having obviously missed something funny.

 

“It's just that I'm not used to hearing whistling in the Control Room,” Lee stated with a straight face.

 

Who's whistling?” Chip glared searching with his eyes for the culprit and finding none at the moment.

 

You were, Mr. Morton,” Lee said quietly but sternly and then smiled in obvious amusement as he watched Chip's facial expression change as he rolled his blue eyes realizing it was him.

 

“I'm sorry, Skipper.  It won't happen again,” Chip said going all Navy and putting on his famous expressionless face.

 

“Forget it Chip,” Lee said with a grin.  “But you've got seven more months till the wedding, I hope you can stand it till then.”  Lee chuckled quietly, sharing a private moment as Chip's unreadable face softened until he joined his best friend in the humor of the situation.

 

“I know it's strange,” Chip said staring blissfully out Seaview's windows, “but I've never been happier, Lee.”

 

“I'm glad for you Chip,” Lee returned sincerely then squared his shoulders and returned to the business of running the Boat. 

 

“Well, I've got to touch base with the Admiral.  Is FS1 ready?”

 

“All checked out and ready to go,” Chip reported, returning to his competent XO demeanor. 

 

“Very well,” Lee said as he started to step away and then turned back.  “Mr. Morton I think you've been on the Boat too long on this trip.  How about you join me in port?  I'm not invited to the negotiations anyway.”

 

Chip thought inquisitively, “I don't know Lee, the entire Command Team off Boat at the same time?”

 

“O'Brien can handle station keeping on the surface long enough for us to have lunch and look around town a bit,” Lee answered evenly as Chip nodded.

 

“Very well.  Thanks Skipper,” he returned with an appreciative small but distinctive smile as Lee turned and rounded the spiral steps on his way to Admiral Nelson's cabin.

 

* * * * *

 

“Come in,” Harry called, recognizing the rap on the door as belonging to Seaview's Captain.  His supposition was confirmed as Lee stood with the door partially opened, leaning against it as he spoke.

 

“Got a minute Sir?”

 

“Of course, Lee.  Come in,” Harry said as Lee shut the door and settled on the edge of the Admiral's desk, picking up a pen and playing with the button extending and retracting the ballpoint as he spoke.

 

“I just came by to see if you have everything ready for your meeting.  I'd be glad to help in any way possible,” he offered as Harry grinned thinly at how relaxed he and Lee had gotten these last two years.  They were still professional in every way with Lee never dropping decorum in front of the crew, but they had settled into a friendship that was proving to be most satisfying.

 

“Not necessary,” Harry said nodding toward the bunk where his briefcase sat opened.  “I've got everything all ready to go.  Are we still on schedule?”

 

“Aye Sir.  We're at our coordinates beyond the break waters, clearance to “anchor” has been granted and we're ready to launch FS1 anytime you give the word,” Lee reported.

 

“Good,” Harry replied expecting nothing but competence from his young Captain.  “Let's shove off in thirty minutes,” the Admiral said glancing at his watch.

 

“Aye Sir,” Lee replied moving from his perch and heading toward the door and then stopping suddenly.  “Oh I almost forgot.  I asked Chip to join me on shore, I thought we'd hit that restaurant you told me about.”

 

“Fine Lee.  It will do both of you some good to get away and enjoy yourself, if only for lunch.”

 

Lee smiled.  “Well, I better grab my jacket and cover.  See you below Sir.”

 

Harry smiled again and then tapped his stack of papers together in a nice even pile.  He rounded his desk and moved to his briefcase, placing his paperwork inside for his meeting, then checked his watch and moved to the head to freshen up.  Yes, a nice little shore excursion would do his Command Team good, he thought silently as he adjusted the windsor knot in his tie.

 

* * * * *

 

The oriental port boasted a short walk from the pier to the business district.  Seaview was too big to berth here, hence the need to ferry over in the flying sub.  They were only scheduled to be here long enough for Harry to conduct his business with the island dignitaries as he secured the rights to dive in the surrounding area.  Seaview's Captain and Executive Officer had taken the opportunity to enjoy a nice lunch in the small restaurant as they waited for the Admiral.  They finished their lunch and were enjoying the traditional cups of tea served after the meal when suddenly Lee blinked tediously and sat back heavily.

 

“What's wrong Lee?” Chip asked, acknowledging the strange look on Lee's face.

 

“...feel strange...” he breathed out, “...like...”

 

“Drugged?” Chip finished for Lee who was definitely having trouble thinking.

 

“Let's get out of here Lee,” Chip urged, slapping down cash for their meals and gathering their service caps as he helped Lee to his feet.

 

Lee stumbled, hanging heavily on Chip as the blonde officer worked to get him out of the restaurant, the obvious source of his condition.  Chip poured over the street looking for some sort of law enforcement officer but seeing none herded Seaview's Captain toward the pier.  Lee's knees began to buckle as Chip applied more muscle keeping him upright.

 

“Only a little further,” he encouraged as Lee let out a moan.  He was barely coherent and was losing the battle to make his body work when a group of men came up behind them and corralled them into a narrow alley.   Chip was immediately thrown up against the wall as Lee fell helplessly to the ground.  His eyes were barely open in small slits as three men approached Chip, one of the men attacked using martial arts as Chip countered his moves but was quickly overcome by the obvious mismatch of ability.  His attacker, obviously a martial arts master, delivered powerful blows and kicks throwing Chip back up against the wall as his head connected with a thud.  He continued relentlessly delivering more blows until Chip slid down the stone wall in a heap, a trail of blood following him down the wall, flowing freely from his head wound.

 

“Chip...” Lee groaned and then lost his hold on consciousness.

 

“Leave him.  This one is of no concern,” the Attacker directed pointing toward the crumpled body of the blonde haired American Officer.  He's the one I want,” he finished, pointing toward Lee as the limp body of Seaview's Captain was picked up and dragged to the back seat of a waiting car.  

 

* * * * *

 

“Thank you Gentlemen,” Harry offered pleasantly, having secured the diving rights for an upcoming underwater expedition.  The formalities of dealing with the oriental island, a sovereign nation part of a chain of islands off the Asian coast, had dictated that Harry conduct the negotiations himself.  Even Captain Crane hadn't been invited to the bargaining table, something Harry noted didn't seem to bother Seaview's Captain in the least.  Instead, Lee had “consoled” himself by inviting Chip to join him on a small shore excursion.  The thought of Lee and Chip's off-boat stroll through the business district of the pier left Harry with an inward smile.

 

They work too hard, he thought proudly reflecting on the youngest and best command team in the Navy, Reserves or not. 

 

A little stroll and a nice lunch was just the thing to rejuvenate Seaview's Captain and XO and though he much preferred to join them, the diving privileges he just secured were more than worth his effort.  He had, in fact, suggested a very nice little restaurant he had discovered on an earlier visit with excellent island cuisine.

 

Harry's attention was brought back to his hosts as handshakes were followed by traditional bows of respect.  No sooner had they performed the time honored traditions of farewell did two policemen enter the room having been escorted by an aide.

 

“Admiral Nelson,” one spoke in heavily accented English.

 

“Yes,” Harry replied, his curiousness quickly morphing to concern with the serious expressions of the officers.

 

“Sir, one of your officers was found injured near the pier.”

 

One of his officers?  Harry immediately thought, as there would be no reason why Lee and Chip would have separated.  Perhaps they've mistaken the officer from one of the other vessels in port, he quickly surmised.

 

“Are you sure it's one of my men,” Harry clarified as the officer handed over Chip's NIMR Identification Card. 

 

Harry recognized the card at once.  “Yes, he's one of my men.  What kind of injuries?” Harry asked, wondering if Chip had been involved in some sort of automobile accident.

 

“He was attacked and is currently in the hospital across town.  I'm sorry it took so long to track you down, but...”

 

“So long?  How long ago did you find him?”

 

“About two hours,” the officer replied as the island dignitaries appeared shocked that this kind of violence would befall their guests.

 

“There was another officer with Commander Morton,” Harry inquired.

 

“We found only this,” he said turning to the second officer who pulled Lee's service cap out from an evidence bag he carried.

 

Harry took the cap recognizing the gold braids denoting the rank of Commander and pursed his bottom lip.

 

“You say Commander Morton is in the hospital but you didn't tell me his condition?” Harry probed, bringing in his concern for Lee and focusing on Chip.

 

“We will take you there,” the officer suggested vaguely as Harry nodded, collected his own service cap and moved toward the door.

 

“Admiral Nelson, our most sincere apologies,” the dignitary offered with a humble bow.

 

Harry nodded acknowledging the sincere sentiments of his host and left to see about Chip's condition and anxious for what information he could shed concerning Lee, who was most notably missing.

 

* * * * *

 

Harry paced the waiting room as Chief Sharkey entered having shuttled by zodiac at the Admiral's call.

 

“Anything Sir?” Sharkey asked cautiously.

 

“He's still in surgery,” Harry answered almost gruffly as he considered a beating severe enough to put Chip in surgery.

 

“How about the Skipper, Sir?”

 

Harry shook his head.  “They don't know, all they found was this,” Harry said pointing to Lee's khaki service cap sitting on the chair next to his.

 

Sharkey blew out a breath as his face registered his concern, one never to mask his feelings where the command team was concerned.

 

“Your orders Sir?” Sharkey asked, reining in his apprehension and needing to do something.  Harry was about to answer when a doctor entered the waiting room having obviously just come from surgery.

 

“Admiral Nelson?  I'm Dr. Singh.”

 

“Yes, how is he doctor?”

 

“He's out of surgery and resting comfortably.  The beating was substantial producing three broken ribs and a concussion from a head injury.  Those will heal in time, but he also sustained a very dangerous internal injury; a ruptured spleen.”

 

Harry blew a breath at the implications of such an injury, including the abdomen filling with blood, dangerously low blood pressure and the fact that the injury was incredibly painful.

 

“The injury was a good candidate for a new technique in treatment,” the doctor continued speaking in very good English as Harry listened intently. 

 

“I'm sure you are aware of the important function of the spleen.  It contains special white blood cells that destroy bacteria and help the body fight infections. The spleen also makes red blood cells and helps remove or filter old ones from the body's circulation.  As such the spleen serves a crucial role in helping the body fight certain bacteria.”**

 

Harry nodded, fully aware of the organ in question.  “This new technique you described...?” Harry encouraged as the doctor shook his head and continued.

 

“Yes.  We were able to repair the tear rather than remove the spleen.  His condition is stable but guarded as we ascertain whether further blood transfusions are warranted as well as guard for possible infection.  However, if the tear doesn't heal properly we'll be forced to remove the spleen completely.”

 

“Very well Doctor.  May I see him?”

 

“He's still in recovery.  I'll have the nurse advice you as soon as he's settled into a room.”

 

“Thank you Doctor,” Harry replied as Dr. Singh smiled wearily then returned back through the doors he entered.

 

“Admiral?  Mr. Morton's going to be alright, isn't he?” Sharkey asked needing clarification since Harry didn't seem to be fully relieved.

 

Harry sighed audibly.  “If the new procedure works, then yes, but if the tear doesn't heal and the spleen doesn't return to its proper function then Mr. Morton may lose his position on Seaview.”

 

Sharkey's jaw dropped as he shook his head incredulously.  “What do you mean, Admiral?  I mean if they remove the spleen shouldn't that take care of it?”

 

“They will most likely be able to save his life given the close care they're giving him but he would be susceptible to bacteria and infection to a dangerous degree.  The Navy would most likely retire him and I couldn't in all good conscious allow him to endanger himself given the strange circumstances our Voyages place us in,” Harry answered rather retrospectively and then continued.

 

“But that's not our only concern here, Chief,” Harry added bringing Sharkey's attention sharply back into focus.

 

“Captain Crane was with Mr. Morton and is now missing.  Retrace their steps starting at the restaurant and find whatever clues you can.  We must locate Captain Crane!” Harry finished with passion.

 

“Aye Sir.  Kowalski's with the car, we'll get on it right away.”

 

“Fine Chief.  Get going I'll join you after I check on Mr. Morton.”

 

Sharkey “Aye Sir'ed” and headed out on his mission as Harry took up his pacing once again.  The only clues he had to work with were their last known location and whatever information he could get from Chip.  He only hoped it would be enough.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee's eyes fluttered open but he was hardly lucid.  The room was spinning and he had no peripheral vision.  He concentrated on focusing and found himself staring at a small door, it was only then that he realized he was lying on his side with his hands tied behind his back.  He blinked again, trying to remember what happened and just why he was immobilized.  His brain wasn't working so he calmed himself and tried to take stock of his surroundings.  A small cabin.  The movement of the ship finally came into focus and he realized he was at sea.  He tested his restraints but found he was not only tied but also tethered to the wall.

 

Slowly his brain began releasing his cognitive abilities as his peripheral vision returned.  He took an appraising review of himself and realized he was no longer in uniform.  He was wearing the traditional black pants and grey tunic worn by many people in the oriental islands.  Suddenly Lee's eyes widened as he remembered Chip and the alley.  His muddled brain could barely recollect the scene but he focused until he recalled Chip's crumpled body sliding down the blood-stained wall.  He cursed inwardly as he remembered the attacker, a martial arts master who could have stopped on the second devastating blow he delivered but continued relentlessly adding pain for no apparent reason.  What kept Chip standing as long as he did, he didn't know.  After that it was just darkness, until he woke up here. 

 

He was contemplating just where “here” was when he heard the lock as the door opened and several men entered followed by a young woman carrying a tray with a vial and a hypodermic needle.

 

“You were warned not to let him waken,” one said in the island dialect.  It was similar to other oriental languages Lee had studied and he could make out their conversation even with his fuzzy brain.

 

“I want him to know what is happening,” the second man responded and then addressed Lee.

 

“Take a good look at me Captain Crane,” he spoke in broken but understandable English.  “Do you recognize me?”

 

Lee squinted as he studied the man before him.  “I've never seen you before a day in my life,” he breathed out trying to wiggle out of the rope as he spoke.

 

“I'm told I look just like my brother.  When you kill a man you should at least look at his face,” he chided, “But you are without honor so let me remind you... six months ago on an island claimed by the People's Republic...”

 

“The Ninja,” Lee finished.

 

“You shot your opponent in a hand to hand combat, you worthless excuse for a man,” he spat out.

 

“He pulled a dagger on me, I had no choice,” Lee defended knowing it would do no good.

 

“Silence!” the brother yelled.  “You are coming back to my country to make reparations to my family.  Your life for my brother's life.  Your death for his death.”

 

Lee felt the ropes start to slip and continued his conversation, trying to stay out of the needle's influence before he could free himself completely.

 

“You're wrong.  We fought, but all I did was defend myself.”

 

“Enough,” the brother said calmly and reached for the needle.

 

“Guang?” the young woman spoke up.

 

“Be quiet Suyin,” he demanded.  “Do you care more for this man with no honor than your own brother?” he accused as she bowed her head and lowered her eyes.

 

“No brother.”

 

Lee started struggling as Guang closed in on him but the second man held him in place as the needle was inserted and he felt the same sensations he felt in the restaurant after drinking the tea.  His struggles lessened and then ceased as his fuzzy brain returned.  Guang backed off, satisfied with the judgement he had passed and held his lips tightly closed in a hate filled grin.  Lee focused on the young woman, as Suyin raised her eyes to watch him, although she still kept her head down.  He could see the compassion there even as the drug began closing in his eyesight once again, leaving swirling lights dancing in different directions and bouncing off the walls.  He grunted feeling much more uncomfortable than the first time the drug was administered as Guang smiled.  The pain followed as Lee gasped and dropped his face into the cot coping as he heard Guang speak once again.

 

“Two more injections and he will be ready.”

 

“For what?  We were told to keep him sedated, he's dangerous,” the second man replied.

 

“I know what I'm doing Koji,” Guang answered as the two left the cabin with Suyin the last to leave, lingering slightly and closing the door sadly.

 

* * * * *

 

“Chip?” Harry called, gently beckoning the blonde back from a deep anesthetics induced sleep.  He knew the local law enforcement would be conducting an investigation, but he didn't have time to wait.  He needed answers now.  He called again, and this time was rewarded with a small airy groan.

 

“Come on, lad,” Harry encouraged as Chip's eyes fluttered open.  He stared at the ceiling for a moment gathering his lucidity and turned his weary head toward Harry's voice.

 

“Are you back with us, Chip?” Harry asked with a small smile.

 

“Aye Sir,” he answered, surprised at the feeble sound of his own voice.  Though the ruptured spleen had been the most serious of his injuries, his face bore the tell-tale signs of a significant beating, as well as the white bandage that wrapped around his head signaling a nasty head injury.  Likewise, he moved his untethered hand cautiously over his side where the gauze and tape were hidden under his white hospital gown.

 

“What happened?” he asked in obvious confusion at waking up in the hospital.

 

“I was hoping you could tell me?” Harry probed gently, desperate for news about Lee but very concerned for the young man who had been part of Seaview from the first plank up; someone he had noted for his excellence even back at the academy all those years ago.

 

Chip concentrated to bring everything into focus as his eyebrows sharpened in the effort and then widened in a near panic as Harry recognized his intent to sit up.  Harry placed both hands on his shoulders effectively keeping him safely in place as Chip found the Admiral's eyes and inquired desperately.

 

“Lee?”

 

“Chip what do you remember?” Harry said coaxing what clues he could from Seaview's XO.

 

“We had lunch.  It was good, we enjoyed it.  We just finished the tea when Lee started acting strange.”

 

“Strange?” Harry interrupted.

 

“Disoriented... confused.  He said he felt strange.  His eyes were beginning to gloss like he'd been drugged so we left.  I tried to get him back to the pier but we were bushwhacked in an alley,” he recalled taking the time to swallow hard.

 

“What else, lad?”

 

“I was thrown against a wall, Lee fell to the ground.  He was too weak, he couldn't even stand by himself.  Three locals approached me, I only got in a few blocks before one of them did me in,” Chip remembered unconsciously rubbing his broken ribs as he spoke. 

 

“I went down hard.  I didn't see what happened to Lee,” he said full of emotion and self-recrimination as Harry placed a reassuring hand on Chip's shoulder.

 

“Listen Chip.  It was obviously a well-planned attack.  I have no doubt you did everything you could,” Harry answered, putting aside his deep concern for Lee to comfort a very broken and damaged Chip Morton.

 

“Then Lee is...?”

 

“Missing.  I suspect abducted,” Harry answered calmly.

 

“Oh no...,” Chip breathed out as a moan escaped.

 

“Chip I'm going to get to the bottom of this.  Your job Mister, is to get well.  You are to stay put,” Harry ordered in full Four-Star authority recognizing Chip's track record for early release tactics.  He was nearly as bad as Lee, Harry pondered silently and then continued.   “By now you are probably aware that you sustained a significant internal injury,” Harry stated as Chip conceded his current physical condition, nodding and lowering his eyes.  “It is imperative that you heal properly.  Do I make myself clear?”

 

“Aye Sir,” he breathed out in resignation, as Harry realized Chip was harboring some ill-placed guilt for not protecting Lee.

 

“Very well.  Now you look like you're in pain,” Harry said softening his approach.  “I'm going to call the nurse,” Harry added pressing the call button on the bed as he continued.

 

“Chief Sharkey and Kowalski are already hitting the streets looking for clues,” Harry said allowing a slight smile to appear, “And you know how the Chief is where Captain Crane is concerned?”

 

Chip smiled and chuckled slightly.  “Aye Sir,” he replied knowing that Sharkey was as faithful as a hound dog, especially when it involved either Harry or Lee.

 

“We're going to find him Chip,” Harry promised solemnly as he placed a reassuring hand on Chip's shoulder and turned to leave meeting the nurse at the door.

 

“I think he's in pain,” he explained to the duty nurse as she nodded and moved to tend to her patient.  

 

Harry took one last appraising look at Chip Morton, his handsome Nordic features currently hidden under dark bruises, scrapes, and white bandages.  He turned and left adjusting his cover on his head and walking with purpose to the hospital exit.

 

* * * * *

 

Harry arrived at the restaurant just as Sharkey and Kowalski were coming out.

 

“What did you find out Chief?” He asked looking around as he spoke.

 

“Nothing Sir.  The owner says he remembers them; they seemed to be enjoying their meal when the Skipper suddenly took ill.  They left in a hurry and that's all he knows.”

 

“We'll see about that,” Harry nearly growled as the answer wasn't nearly good enough.   It was obvious that Lee had been drugged in the restaurant, there had to be more to the story.  Harry headed into the restaurant and asked for the owner.  As he waited he calmed himself with an expelling breath out.

 

“Admiral Nelson.  My establishment is indeed honored by your visit.”

 

“Thank you Mr. Fong.  I wish to speak to you about my men who visited here today,” Harry answered diplomatically, knowing that every hour Lee was missing was potentially dangerous. 

 

“Yes.  Your man told me,” Fong answered nodding toward Sharkey.

 

“You said one suddenly became ill?

“The dark haired one,” Fong answered, posing no body language cueing he wasn't being forthright.

 

“It's very important that we retrace what happened Mr. Fong.  My officers were attacked down the street.”

 

“Yes I heard the police sirens.  Tragic, very tragic.”

 

“The other officer says that my Captain appeared to be drugged.  Now who would have prepared the tea?”

 

“Their Server was my daughter, but I do not believe she would have done them any harm,” Fong defended.

 

“I'm sure you're right, Mr. Fong.  But perhaps there was something out of the ordinary that happened, giving someone else the opportunity.  Only one officer was drugged, so it must not have been in the tea pot, perhaps the cup?”  Harry offered, trying to cool Mr. Fong before he closed up.

 

“We shall see,” Mr. Fong returned with a slight bow and then called his daughter.

 

“Tu, these gentlemen need your help,” he said as Tu acknowledged their presence with a bow.  “You served the two American Officers earlier?”

 

“Yes Father.”

 

“The dark haired one appeared ill after his tea.  What do you know of this?”

 

She nodded in the negative, her long straight jet black hair was pulled into a neat pony tail and bounced with her head's movement.

 

“I know nothing Father.”

 

“Miss Fong,” Harry interjected.  “It's very important that we know if there was any opportunity for someone besides yourself to handle the tea.”

 

Her eyebrows sharpened as she remembered.  “I prepared the tea but then Changpu said I was needed in the kitchen.  He offered to serve the tea for me.”

 

“Very well, may I speak with Changpu then?” Harry asked feeling as if he was honing in on a suspect.  All of the sudden the curtains to the kitchen rustled followed by the sound of dishes crashing and breaking as Sharkey instinctively moved into motion.

 

“Check out the alley, Ski.  Don't let him get away,” Sharkey called over his shoulder as he disappeared behind the curtains.

 

Harry blew a breath out.  “How well do you know Changpu, Mr. Fong?”

 

“He has worked here for several years.  He comes to work and does his job.  I do not know him personally.”

 

A few minutes later a winded Sharkey returned.  “He's gone, Sir.  He disappeared over some crates in the alley and I lost him,” he reported.

 

“Perhaps Kowalski picked him up,” Harry stated hopefully, a few minutes later his hope was justified as Ski returned with Changpu in tow, his arm held uncomfortably behind his back.

 

“Why did you run Changpu?” Mr. Fong inquired.

 

“I did not know it would make him sick, I swear it!” Changpu replied nervously.

 

“I think you better tell us what happened,” Harry said, barely keeping his temper under control.

 

“The man at that table,” Changpu began, nodding toward an empty table, “paid me to place drops in the bottom of the dark haired one's cup.  I sent Tu into the kitchen and served their tea.  The drops were clear and weren't noticeable, he drank the tea and then began to show signs of illness.”

 

“But why Changpu?  Why would you do something like this?” Mr. Fong asked as Harry listened, also curious as to the answer.

 

“He gave me a full month's wages.  I thought it was just a joke, I swear, I didn't know they meant him harm,” he pleaded.

 

“Could you recognize this man if you saw him again?”

 

“I don't know, maybe.”

 

“Well Mr. Fong, I think we better call the police detective to sort this out,” Harry suggested as they would need the local law enforcement's cooperation and connections to get any closer to finding Lee.

 

“I will call,” Fong offered as Ski held Changpu tightly in spite of his seemingly contrite state while Harry paced the floor.  It appeared the abduction had indeed been well planned as Harry surmised the perpetrator followed Chip and Lee to the restaurant and looked for an opportunity to place the drug.    The abduction wasn't a matter of chance or opportunity; someone had taken great steps to incapacitate and kidnap Lee Crane.  Harry's face sharpened in deep concern as he stared out the window toward the sounds of the approaching police sirens and sighed inwardly.  For everything they had just learned they were still no closer to finding Lee than when they started.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee swam back to consciousness to the gentle caress of soft hands as Suyin blotted sweat from his beaded brow.  He squeezed his eyes together trying to sharpen his mind with limited success.

 

“Who... are you?” He asked, his brain refusing to work properly.

 

“Suyin,” she replied quietly, her dark hair flowed freely down her back while her bangs cut straight across her forehead framed a pretty face.  Her eyes were an exotic if not unusual emerald color, but Lee didn't notice in his current state.

 

“Suyin,” he repeated airily, working to remember it for future use.

 

“Help me, Suyin,” he managed and then swallowed hard as thinking was increasingly difficult.

 

“Here, you must eat this.  The drug will not be as potent with something in your stomach,” she explained.

 

It seemed rather reasonable as Lee opened his mouth to take the proffered food since his hands were still tied behind his back.  But truth be known, he would have heeded her suggestion no matter how absurd as his will was rather compliant at present.

 

He ate a few bites of the rice cake she provided but couldn't eat anymore as she blotted his face once again. 

 

“I must go now.  I'm sorry I can't do more.”

 

“Wait Suyin... tell someone I'm here...,” Lee pleaded but couldn't continue, his cognitive abilities greatly impaired at present.

 

Suyin rose and left silently, she knew she mustn't be discovered helping the American.  Even she didn't quite understand her sympathies for the man who killed her brother.  This just all seemed so wrong; Where was the “honor” in treating him like this? she wondered as she closed the door.  Their small boat was aged and the journey to their island would take several days.  She would do what she could, but once he reached their island homeland she knew what his fate would be.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee heard the door close with a slight click as Suyin left the cabin.  He was finding it hard to reason, especially after Guang had administered another dose of the drug.  It left him feeling lethargic and unable to complete a thought to its conclusion.  He wasn't a stranger to nasty drugs employed to gain information from the sometimes ONI spy, but this drug was different.  The compliancy had nothing to do with gaining information; rather than enticing him to speak it seemed to be shutting him down, more like a zombie.  Indeed after the last dose he had been so lethargic that he had been untied and led to the head where he completed his business without one thought of using the opportunity to escape, subsequently the knots he had managed to loosen earlier had been tightened once again. 

 

The more he tried to focus the harder it became as he finally gave up, at least for the time being and tried instead to gain his strength.  He'd have to be more diligent the next time he was untied, he decided and then closed his eyes as the energy to bring that thought together almost did him in.

 

* * * * *

 

Harry returned to the hospital having notified ONI of Lee's disappearance and spending much of the afternoon at the police station.  He called Angie at NIMR with instructions to notify Chip's family of his condition as a courtesy call since he was currently out of danger.  Lee's disappearance would be kept under wraps until ONI decided to release it, even to his mother.  They needed to keep every advantage they had to find Seaview's Captain and an errant leak in the press just might get Lee killed.

 

“Hello Chip,” Harry said with a concerned tight smile.

 

“Hello Admiral,” Chip replied, his voice still airy and pained.  “What did you find out, Sir?”

 

Harry pulled a chair closer to Chip's bed, the head was only slightly raised and he didn't seem to be any better for the rest and care he had received.

 

“It was a well-planned abduction,” Harry started as Chip nodded slightly, staring just past Harry to the wall behind him.  “Someone paid an employee to drug Lee's cup with drops of some kind.  I've just spent several hours at the police station and we're convinced he was an accomplice by chance and opportunity only.  Apparently, you were followed to the restaurant and set-up for the abduction.  We have a sketch of the man who paid the employee and it's being run through the usual agencies, but so far we have nothing,” Harry reported as Chip's countenance seemed to drop even more.

 

“Mr. Morton,” Harry said, employing his Admiral's tone to get Chip's attention.

 

“Aye Sir.”

 

“This wasn't your fault.  Lee has a lot of enemies, you know that,” Harry stated more than asked.

 

“I know Sir.  But the drug left him totally defenseless... and I just couldn't help him.”

 

“Chip you were attacked by a martial arts expert, there's no doubt about that, and there's very few men who could have countered that attack.  Right now, wherever Lee is, I'll bet my bottom dollar he isn't blaming you.”

 

“Aye Sir, thank you Sir,” he replied out of decorum and duty but lacking in conviction as Harry contemplated Chip's perceived guilt, probably brought on as much by his weakened physical condition as the events of the day.  He reasoned that when Chip was stronger he'd see how illogical it was to harbor such guilt, he only hoped that it didn't deter his healing process; the issue of Chip's repaired spleen and the consequences if his injury didn't heal properly still very much in Harry's concern.

 

“Get some rest Chip,” Harry admonished and rose to leave.  “I'll check with you in the morning.”

 

“Thank you Sir,” Chip returned and immediately closed his eyes.  Harry paused at the door assessing Seaview's normally confident and competent Executive Officer.  He shook his head and exited completely knowing that if Chip didn't find his “center” on the situation it would indeed hinder his recovery.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee lay staring at the ceiling in his small cabin.  He wasn't tied or tethered any longer but the third dose of Guang's drug had left him too confused to realize that he should be thinking of escape.  The door opened, something he barely registered as Guang and Koji reentered.

 

“Get him up,” Guang ordered as Koji obeyed reluctantly.

 

“I hope you know what you're doing, Guang.  Gamma won't be happy if Crane escapes,” Koji stated knowing full well that they had been instructed to keep the prisoner sedated until they arrived at their homeland.

 

“There's no place for him to go; we're at sea,” Guang replied rather logically as Koji guided Lee into a sitting position. 

 

Lee sat contemplating the fact that he should be doing something right now.  Just what he didn't know, but it didn't seem right to be this docile.

 

Koji moved his prisoner into a standing position as Lee realized his arms and legs really did work.

 

“You will come with us,” Guang ordered as Lee followed disoriented and weak.

 

He was led to the upper deck where the night air was still warm.  Still the salty sea air brought a moment of lucidity, a moment when he remembered something more than this dazed existence.  He knew this wasn't right, he belonged on another boat... not here.

 

“You will earn your meals on this boat Crane,” Guang stated pointing to the bucket full of water.  “Start scrubbing the deck,” he ordered as Lee obeyed, totally compliant as his mind warred with the drug to return to complete awareness.  It was too far on the edge, he couldn't retrieve his own will power and picked up the scrub brush.  He started scrubbing as Guang's satisfied smile widened at the humiliation he was bringing the Captain of the Seaview.  It was just reward, he reasoned, for the humiliation his brother suffered losing in combat to the sailor, he thought as even Gamma was unaware that Lee was anything more than a submarine captain who occasionally ran errands for ONI, much less a highly trained operative.

 

Lee continued to scrub the deck allowing the sea air to bring tendrils of awareness that his existence was more than his current state.  He didn't have anything else to go on, his memories just as unreachable as his ability to reason and think, but somehow he knew he didn't belong here.

 

Guang left Koji to guard Lee and headed to his own cabin as Suyin watched from a dark corner.  Even with the drugged, glazed look in the American's eyes she could tell he was a man of honor.  She was confused as she withdrew, unable to watch his humiliation any longer.

 

* * * * *

 

“Good morning Gerald,” Harry greeted, as the two Admirals conferenced on the video monitor in the privacy of Harry's cabin.

 

“Harriman,” Gerald greeted, even though it was very late on the other side of the world in Washington DC just now.

 

“I hope you have a lead for me,” Harry prodded as Gerald nodded with pursed lips.  It was always hard to read ONI's Commander as Gerald was especially skilled in hiding his emotions, if indeed he had any, under his practiced command face.

 

“The sketch you provided has been matched with a 78% probability to a known criminal working for Dr. Gamma,” Johnson stated flatly as Harry's eyebrows tightened.

 

“Gamma?  How does he tie into this?”

 

“I've got every available ear to the ground right now, Harriman, when I have something definite you'll be the first to know.  But if I had to guess, I'd say that Gamma knows exactly who derailed his plans six months ago in that Bunker fiasco with the PR.”

 

Harry leaned over his folded hands on his desk.  “Then it's revenge,” he said stating the obvious.  “But why didn't he just kill Lee outright?”

 

“Possibly to glean information.  However, there's no indication that Gamma is aware that Lee's security clearance with ONI is so high; I suspect if Gamma's after information it's regarding Seaview,” Gerald surmised. 

 

“At any rate, it's pure conjecture at this point,” he continued without emotion as Harry suppressed a sigh.  “As I said, I've got operatives from multiple Intelligence Agencies around the world aware of Crane's abduction.  Sooner or later someone's going to slip and we'll find him,” Gerald stated with confidence as Harry nodded.

 

“I only hope Lee can hold out until that happens,” Harry stated flatly as Johnson responded with a barely indiscernible nod of the head.

 

“I'll contact you when I have more, Harriman.”

 

“Very well Gerald.  Nelson out.”

 

Harry sat back and blew out a breath of frustration.  Somewhere out there, Lee Crane was being held by one of the most dangerous men on earth.  At the very least, he had been abducted by one of Gamma's men and was in transit to some secret lair.  Harry rubbed a tired hand across the back of his neck and stood to pace.  There had to be a clue somewhere; something he had missed! he thought, but came up empty as he dropped into his chair and sat back heavily.  He leaned his elbows tiredly onto the desk and leaned forward into his folded hands.  There was nothing to do but pray that someone... somewhere came up with a solid lead to work on.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee sat on his cot with his back leaning against the cabin wall.  He had worked through the night and though he was tired he felt some of the fuzziness fading away.  Tiny bits of information began to crawl back into his awareness as he suddenly realized he had a name. 

 

Lee Crane... It was something... something he didn't have earlier as flashes of his abduction began to appear.  He closed his eyes and was drawn to the alley where he watched Chip's attack.  It was ruthless and brutal as Lee's eyes popped open in recognition.

 

“Chip,” he whispered out but his moment of awareness was interrupted by his cabin door opening as Guang entered with a devious smile.  He recognized his prisoner's cognitive abilities returning, as he had delayed the last injection in order to gloat with Lee's awareness intact.

 

Koji followed as Lee saw the hypo and recognized the need to fight.  He lunged at Guang but found himself taking a karate chop to the back of his neck dropping him with little fanfare as Lee's handicap was too great under the influence of the drug.  He continued to struggle as Koji held him down and Guang inserted the needle with vigor.  His eyes fluttered as he breathed irregularly and then drifted back into the zombie like state that had seized him earlier.

 

Guang and Koji placed him back on the cot and then turned to leave.

 

“You are playing a dangerous game Guang,” Koji said looking back at their helpless prisoner.  “Gamma only gave him to you to pay for Feng's death.  He was to be sedated until he reached your home and then executed for his crime.  If he escapes you will pay a price I fear,” Koji stated. 

 

“He will die just as I was charged to do, but first I will have my satisfaction,” Guang promised and shut the door behind them, locking it from the outside.

 

* * * * *

 

“Admiral Nelson.”

 

Harry turned toward the sound of his name toward Chip's doctor.

 

“Good morning Dr. Singh.  How is your patient?”

 

The doctor sighed.  “He is not as strong as I had hoped.  I am a bit perplexed,” he admitted.  “He is young and healthy, the repair was a good one but he's not responding as favorably as he should.”

 

Harry pursed his lips as he listened.  “Is he showing signs of infection?” Harry asked fearing the worst case scenario; if Chip's spleen was removed he might never sail aboard Seaview again and though he would always have a place at NIMR, Harry knew the lad belonged at sea.

 

“No, not yet,” the doctor replied.  “But if he doesn't begin to improve we will have to take the next step in his treatment.  As I said repairing a spleen is a new technique, but I won't experiment on my patients.  If he doesn't improve I will have no other choice but to conduct a splenectomy.”

 

“I understand, doctor.  Do everything you can to prevent that, but not at the expense of his well-being,” Harry charged as the doctor nodded and took his leave.

 

Harry walked slowly to Chip's room, lingering with his hand on the door knob.  He had a feeling that what Chip needed at this moment was good news about Lee and he just didn't have that right now.  He stepped back and headed down the hospital corridor.  The best way he could help Chip was to find Lee.

 

* * * * *

Lee was roused from his cot with barely two hours of sleep after scrubbing the deck all night, consequently the lack of sleep and food had decreased his body's ability to counter the drug.

 

He was still wearing the same tunic and pants he woke in the first day, only now they were soiled from the forced labor he had endured.  He followed his captors without any thought of escape, walking on auto pilot and obeying instantly their commands.  The drug was in full force as he was taken to the cargo hold and handed a broom and bucket.

 

“Get to work,” Guang commanded as Lee held the broom almost unsure what to do.  A few moments later his brain released the correct response as he began to sweep the filthy deck.  Guang smiled again and returned top-side, the stench below too unpleasant to stomach.

 

The cargo companionway door closed as Lee leaned against the broom, again feeling that this existence didn't belong to him.  He closed his eyes trying to bring himself into focus but found it too difficult.  His strong work ethic drove him as he started to clean the cargo hold operating completely on habitual reflex as he worked. 

 

The door opened five hours later, though Lee was unaware of the passing of time.  He was motioned top-side and escorted back to his cabin where he collapsed on his cot holding his stomach, cramping from lack of food.

 

“You will have to give him something to eat and drink if you continue to work him,” Koji suggested as Guang nodded in the negative. 

 

“Only enough to survive.  Tomorrow we will reach our homeland, I will take him to my family's ancestral land and there he will die,” Guang finished sternly as he withdrew from the room.  Koji closed the door behind him, not so much worried about Crane's condition but what would happen if the American were to escape while under their charge.

 

* * * * *

 

Suyin watched as the American was taken back to his cabin.  He looked tired, dirty, and even more lost than when he was first brought aboard.  She closed her cabin door as she heard her brother and Koji's conversation.  When she was sure the way was clear she entered the cabin and found the American staring at the ceiling again.

 

She took in his weary state and moved to the bathroom returning with a basin of cool water as she blotted his face barely getting a response, as if he wasn't even aware she was there.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee was dumped on his cot and though he was exhausted he didn't want to sleep.  The entire time he worked flashes of memories and pictures of his life taunted him just outside his ability to recall them completely and make them his.  He could see people's faces, a distinguished man with auburn hair; fiery eyes at times and other times so deep in compassion and conviction it intrigued him.  A blonde haired man, stoic and proper but lively and fun at other times.  Something was wrong as pictures of he and Chip in their carefree days at the Academy began to mix with the last memory of Chip crumpled on the ground with the streak of blood running down the wall beside him. 

 

The gentle blotting of the cool rag drew his awareness back as his head lolled slightly in her direction.

 

“Suyin...” he said unsure of himself.

 

“Yes,” she returned with a small compassionate smile, mixed with a furled forehead of concern.

 

“Lee... my name is Lee,” he said, not so much an introduction as a realization.

 

“Lee,” she repeated, his name familiar in her own language.  “It is a noble name in my tongue,” she said opening his tunic and applying the cool cloth to his chest.

 

“Crane... Lee Crane,” he said with a sigh of satisfaction.

 

“That is a good name,” Suyin said as she re-buttoned his tunic, careful to hide the care she'd given. 

 

He reached for her hands as she finished the last button and held them weakly on his chest, looking in her eyes as he spoke.

 

“I don't belong here... somebody's looking for me, please tell them I'm here,” he pleaded as she tugged her hand away and lowered her eyes.

 

“I do not think I can do that Lee... you killed my brother,” she replied in confusion as Lee swallowed hard trying to remember.  Flashes of the Ninja played before his eyes as his mind desperately tried to return his memories, though reasoning was still difficult.

 

“We fought...,” Lee said narrating the flashes of memories before him.  “I had to report... many people would have died,” he recollected.  “The Ninja... your brother was sent to kill me,” his eyes moved from side to side grabbing the memories as they presented themselves, almost afraid they would be taken from him again.  He found her eyes once again as she recognized his mind was clearing.

 

“He pulled a dagger, I had no choice, Suyin.  I swear, I had no choice,” he said running his tongue over his dry lips.  She noticed and filled a cup with water lifting his head for him to drink.

 

As he drank she pondered why she was helping this man, but her compassion won out, and as he emptied the cup and lowered his head back to the pillow she couldn't help but brush the hair from his forehead.  The drug began to release him and his eyes began to lose their glossiness but his exhaustion won out as his eyes fluttered closed.

 

“Thank you... Suyin,” he said as he transitioned to sleep.  She lingered a moment more with her hand on his forehead and then returned the basin to the bathroom.  She needed to leave before Guang returned; she left the cabin carefully more confused than ever and wondering just what to do about it.

 

* * * * *

 

Harry made his way back to the hospital after spending the day tracking down leads.  The local police department was working in conjunction with ONI as Lee was a Naval Reserve Officer, his role of Operative having not been divulged.  They had acquired a list of sea vessels that had left port yesterday and though nothing appeared out of the ordinary the officials promised to investigate any possible leads.  He had avoided a noon visit to see Chip but as the day wore on he knew his absence would do Chip more harm than the truth.  He was concerned for both his officers, each more than a trusted subordinate.  It was true that his friendship with Lee had turned more paternal as of late but his friendship with Chip was very deep as well.  The thought of the young Exec losing his spot on Seaview was grievous and painful, add to that the uncertainty of Lee's disappearance and the likely condition they would find him was making Harry weary.

 

He entered the main foyer and made his way to the elevators when he stopped in his tracks, studying the blonde haired woman asking for directions at the Information Desk.  It couldn't be her, Harry reasoned but then raised an eyebrow in question as she turned toward the elevator.

 

“Admiral Nelson,” Monica Felton greeted, her eyes glistening at seeing Harry.

 

“Monica, how did you get here?” He asked incredulously as she approached him taking his proffered hand, but before she could answer he smiled knowingly; Monica Felton's father was a wealthy man and getting his little girl across the world to see her injured fiancé wasn't beyond his capabilities.

 

“Dad brought me,” she replied confirming his supposition and showing tired signs of traveling throughout the night.

 

Harry looked around the foyer and spotted the tall brownish blonde head of Robert Felton, a patron of NIMR's vision and Chip Morton's future father-in-law.

 

“Robert, it's good to see you... unexpected, but good,” Harry said with a grin.

 

“I've been trying to find out where Chip is but the language barrier...” Robert started.

 

“I can take you, there are actually several nurses who speak English and Chip's doctor does as well.  He's very good, Chip is in good hands,” Harry stated trying to offer support.

 

“How is he?” Robert asked as Monica leaned in close.

 

“Physically he should heal.  His spleen ruptured but Dr. Singh employed a new technique and saved the organ, if he heals properly he'll be back to work in no time.  If it doesn't heal, Dr. Singh will be forced to remove the spleen.”

 

“That shouldn't endanger his quality of life,” Robert commented, “I have a friend who had a spleen removed after an auto accident.”

 

“That's true in most cases,” Harry stated in agreement, “but I'm afraid it would greatly affect Chip.  The Navy would most likely retire him, or at the very least side-line him to a desk job as the risk of infection would be too great.  I'm afraid it's more than likely he would also lose his position on Seaview.  A simple bacterial infection could kill him and our Voyages are just too unpredictable.”

 

“Leave Seaview?” Monica chimed in.  “That would kill Chip, he loves his job,” she finished.

 

“Well we're not there yet, and that's why I'm glad you show up,” Harry said with a smile as Monica looked on inquisitively.

 

“I said 'physically' he's alright but 'emotionally' he feels responsible that he couldn't protect Captain Crane and I believe that misguided guilt is derailing his healing process.  You, young lady,” Harry said his grin widening, “might be just what the doctor ordered.”

 

Monica returned his smile, “I was afraid you'd be angry I came, but I couldn't stay away,” she confessed as Robert nodded at her strong will.  Though Monica was five years younger than Chip, she was a woman of deep convictions and carried a maturity beyond her years, though her youthful approach to life was still apparent as well as contagious.

 

“Well, let's get you upstairs and let you work your wonders on the lad,” Harry said with a twinkle in his eyes grateful that he had a secret weapon to combat Chip's current emotional despondency.

 

Harry led Monica to Chip's room but stopped short of the door.

 

“Monica,” he said turning toward her.  “You do understand the nature of Chip's injuries?  I don't want you to be shocked at his appearance.  The head wound isn't dangerous and the broken ribs and bruises will heal,” Harry encouraged as Monica nodded bravely.

 

“I understand,” she assured him as he opened the door, immediately she spotted the dark bruises and the bandage wrapped around his head, as well as his hand splayed over what she knew were broken ribs, but entered determined to be strong for him.

 

* * * * *

 

Chip had fallen asleep, there wasn't much else to do anyway.  He slept lightly and was aware of the door opening but ignored it assuming it was yet another check from the hospital staff, so he was surprised when he felt a soft hand take his and heard her voice.

 

“Chip, it's me,” Monica said softly as Chip's eyes popped open sure he had dreamt her voice.  He smiled openly when he found her face.

 

“How'd you get here?” he asked, his voice still weak and airy.

 

“On a plane,” she said teasingly.  “And before you ask 'Why?'... you're hurt.  Where else would I be?”

 

Chip smiled and squeezed her hand and then found Robert standing alongside Harry.

 

“Thank you for not letting her come alone, Sir,” Chip said addressing Robert.

 

“It's a little hard not taking care of your baby girl, no matter how old she is,” Robert said with a grin as Chip nodded his understanding.

 

“Hello Admiral,” Chip greeted as Harry could already tell having Monica here was just what he needed.

 

“Any news Sir?” Chip asked finding a bit more strength in his voice.

 

“We're working on leads right now, Chip.  Speaking of which I need to get back.  Miss Felton,” Harry said addressing Monica, “I'll leave him in your care, but I have to warn you, he's a terrible patient,” Harry said with a grin.

 

“Don't worry, I can handle him,” Monica replied as Chip chuckled and Harry turned to leave.

 

“Admiral, will you let me know?”

 

“I'll let you know, Chip,” Harry promised and then left.

 

“I'm going to step out for a bit,” Robert said adding a squeeze to Chip's shoulder as Monica held his hand tightly. 

 

Once they were alone Chip reached up and drew her face to his for a kiss.  They lingered for a moment with their foreheads touching as Chip took in her scent.

 

“I missed you,” he whispered with a small smile.

 

“I missed you too,” she said as her lip quivered, his bruises staring straight at her, evidence of the harsh treatment he had received.

 

Chip reached up and gently fingered a tear from her cheek.

 

“Hey, I'm alright,” he said smiling to convince her.

 

“I know,” she said leaning over and laying her head on his shoulder, snuggling close. 

 

Chip wrapped his arm around her and leaned his chin into her hair kissing the top of her head and taking in the exotic smell of her shampoo.  He loved that smell, he loved everything about her.

 

“Chip?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Let's not wait.”

 

“What?”

 

“Let's not wait seven months,” she said popping up with the wild idea fueling her on.  “Let's get married right away.”

 

Chip laughed.  “Bruises, white bandage and all?” He asked with a wide smile.

 

“Well... I'll give you a month to heal.  If your sailing schedule agrees let's get married in a month,” she said, her eyes twinkling at the thought.

 

“I think your Mom might have something to say about that, she's been pretty excited about planning the wedding,” Chip said trying to be the voice of reason.

 

Monica looked him deep in the eyes.  “What about you, Chip?  What do you think?”

 

Chip pondered the thought as a soft smile began to appear.

 

“I think a month should get me healed up enough to handle all the duties of a groom,” he said tongue in cheek as he reached for her and kissed deeply. 

 

They parted as her smile broadened.

 

“You look tired,” he noted.  “Beautiful, but tired.  Why don't you let your Dad take you to the hotel and get some rest, then come back and see me.

 

“I'm glad I came Chip,” she said.  “I'll call Mom and Angie at the Institute and we'll get this figured out, then you can approve the date,” she offered excitedly.

 

“Alright you do that, but get some sleep.  Promise me that.”

 

“Who needs sleep?” She said with a wide grin and leaned over for another kiss.  “I love you, Chip Morton.”

 

“I love you Monica Felton.”

 

She took one more kiss then left as Chip watched with satisfaction suddenly feeling much better as he waved good bye, but then sighed and took a deep breath.

 

“You better be okay Lee Crane, because I fully expect my Best Man to be there,” he said out loud looking wistfully out the window as he spoke.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee endured another injection and was put to work again in the middle of the night.  He was docile but frustrated at the yo-yo effect of having his cognitive abilities stripped away just as they began to return.    He was taken to the galley and given the job of cleaning it.  The dishes and pots were piled high and in need of a good scrubbing.  Lee was working on automatic once again, but as the night wore on the flashes of memories began to return once more.  He seized them, taking the memories in as they were presented as flashes of a fantastic submarine with windows pulled at his heart as if tethered by strings.  Somehow he knew that's where he belonged, though he couldn't reason how.  By the time his captors came for him the galley was cleaner than it had been since they lost their galley cook over a month ago. 

 

He was returned to his cabin where he collapsed on his cot, so exhausted from lack of sleep that he didn't realize until it was too late the next injection he received.  He fought to hold onto the memories he found earlier but they faded as the zombie like state returned.

 

“We reach port in two hours, I will sedate him then for the transport,” Guang stated as Koji nodded in agreement, relieved that they were back on track with Gamma's plan. 

 

“I will take him to my brother's land and execute him there,” Guang finished as they locked the doors behind them.

 

Lee caught their words, trying to hold onto the importance of getting away even as the drug slipped him further into a state where his own reasoning abilities failed him.  He fell asleep; between the drug, his exhaustion and his lack of will power, he had nothing to hold him to his conviction to try and free himself.

 

* * * * *

 

Suyin prepared the tea and placed a cup for Guang, Koji and the other four sailors aboard on a tray.  She served the men as they drank from the small cups without handles.  The cups were meant to drink, not sip and so each took their tea quickly as she hid behind a corner and watched them stagger and fall.  Guang was the last one to fall, perhaps recognizing the effects of his own drug as she ran below to retrieve the American.

 

“Lee!” Suyin urged him to wake as he responded with a moan.  “It's me Suyin.  I am freeing you, but we don't have much time.” 

 

Lee was still docile and obedient and not yet in control of his own reasoning abilities as she moved him into a sitting position and urged him to stand.

 

“You must leave now,” she ordered as he walked leaning on her till he gained his strength.  When they reached the deck top-side the entire compliment of the boat was passed out as she guided Lee to the wheel house.  She took the boat off auto-pilot and turned sharply headed to a beach in the distance, not their intended port but a place that would put Lee far away from her brother when he woke.  She brought the boat alongside a pier, not a usual port for vessels such as hers but it would do.  Suyin tied off the boat and helped Lee to the pier as she pointed to the beach.

 

“You must find a place to hide until the drug wears off,” she instructed.  “Do you understand me Lee?”

 

Lee nodded, the fog was thick but he understood that he must run away. 

 

“I will not see you again.  Please don't tell anyone I helped you,” she begged as he reached for her cheek and cupped it in his hand.

 

“Thank you,” he uttered with some difficulty.

 

“Go now, I must return to sea before they wake.”

 

Lee walked forward, slowly and shakily but with the understanding still in his grasp that this was his escape.  He didn't belong here, he belonged on the Boat with windows with the fiery eyed auburn haired man and the blonde he had seen in his memory flashes.

 

* * * * *

 

Suyin hurried back to the boat and unmoored then returned to the wheelhouse and maneuvered the vessel back out to sea, grateful that she had spent a great deal of her life at sea watching the sailors around her as she followed her brothers and cared for their needs.

 

She returned to the proper shipping lane that would bring the boat to port and rigged the wheel to create a large arc.  Then she returned to the deck and took her own cup of tea.  The swirling colorful lights greeted her as she fell to the deck disoriented and allowed the darkness to take her away knowing that she had covered her tracks as the one who aided the American's escape.  The boat would be found making a large circle, or perhaps one of the sailors would wake and bring them into port, at any rate she would be among them affected by the drug and safe from accusations.  It was the best she could do for Lee as her own life would be in peril if her part in his escape were discovered.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee made his way to the beach and walked in the direction Suyin had pointed, for how long he didn't know.  He walked with only one purpose... to move forward, as his foggy brain warred with the drug to release him.  He stumbled and barely caught himself from falling as a man on a bicycle rode past him on the wet sand.  Lee watched the rider propel forward, his white pointed straw hat picking up rays of the sun as they peeked through a dark cloudy sky.  He stopped and blinked, taking stock of his surroundings noticing for the first time a derelict ship beached by a sand dune.  There were wood planks piled on board and evidence of someone's efforts to restore the ship but at present she looked abandoned.  He needed a place to rest, to restore his strength and make sense of the flashes of memories invading his mind.  It wasn't so much a rational decision as his training that guided him to seek shelter on the boat as Lee moved wearily and staggered toward the ladder.  The rider on the bicycle moved on, never looking back as Lee climbed the ladder and slid over the side onto the deck.  He lay there for a moment gathering the strength he needed and then moved to hide himself, seeking cover in the bowels of the ship.  He took the stairs downward but collapsed at the bottom, unable to go any further as his eyes closed and flashes of images and memories followed him into his dreams.

 

* * * * *

 

A pair of eyes watched from the cover of the vegetation along the shore as the sea vessel moored at the little used pier.  The commercial vessels, both large and small, docked fifteen miles away at the port and so this event warranted extra watchfulness. 

 

The Watcher's eyes tightened as a tall dark-headed man was helped off the boat by a small, slender young woman.  There were no signs of sailors, another incongruous piece of the puzzle.  The young woman pointed toward the beach and the tall man, a foreigner, nodded and stumbled to the beach as the young woman released the moorings taking the boat back to sea.

 

The Watcher's eyes sharpened in recognition of the American and followed along through the vegetation watching the man with interest.  He was clearly compromised in some way, though the Watcher did not believe he was drunk.  He walked with little purpose, no aim until he reached the ship.  It seemed a rather fortuitous find and not a well-thought out plan or decision as the American boarded the ship and disappeared inside.

 

The Watcher looked up both sides of the shore and seeing the way clear dashed out onto the open beach and climbed the wooden ladder up, following the American into his hiding place.

 

* * * * *

 

Harry visited the hospital and met Dr. Singh as he left Chip's room.

 

“Good morning Dr. Singh.  How is your patient this morning?”

 

“Better.  I think the young lady has been good for him,” he said with a small knowing smile.

 

“Then the danger is passed?” Harry asked hopefully.

 

“Not yet.  He is still weak, his healing should be producing stronger vital signs,” he continued with regret.  “I will wait as long as I can, I understand your concern for his career,” Singh qualified, “but I must act in the best interest of my patient.”

 

“That's what I want as well, Dr. Singh,” Harry replied as the doctor continued on his rounds.  Harry sighed, understanding that Monica's presence was credit for Chip's improvement but he wondered if it would be enough as long as Lee remained missing.  Would he lose both his boys to this terrible plot?  Harry's lips pursed as he made his decision.  Chip was a fighter and it was time to lay it on the line.

 

* * * * *

 

“Good morning Monica... Chip,” Harry said entering Chip's room. 

 

“Good morning Admiral.  Did you hear the news?  Dr. Singh says Chip is improving,” Monica reported happily.

 

“Yes I did,” Harry returned with a forced smile.  “Monica do you mind if I speak with Chip alone?”

 

“Of course not,” she said and then turned toward Chip.  “I'll see you in a few minutes.”

 

“Alright,” Chip answered as she left the room.

 

“Do you have anything new Admiral?” Chip asked as soon as the door closed behind Monica.

 

“Nothing substantial.”  Harry watched Chip's countenance fall as he stared at some interesting spot on his bed covers.

 

“But there is something you can do, Chip.”

 

Chip's head popped up.  “Anything,” he replied with conviction.

 

“You can drop whatever guilt you're feeling over Lee's abduction,” Harry said plainly and without any sugar coating.

 

“Sir...”

 

“Don't interrupt Commander,” Harry said going Four-Star Admiral in his approach.

 

“Aye Sir.”

 

“Your internal injury should be healing better than it is.  You have a good doctor, the surgery was successful, you're young and strong so I can only conclude that your perceived guilt and apprehension for Lee is obstructing the healing process.  You need to understand that if your spleen is removed you will be relegated to a desk job at best in the Navy; and the danger of a deadly bacterial infection would be too great to risk further service aboard Seaview.  Do you understand that Mr. Morton?”

 

Chip lowered his eyes and nodded.  “I do, Sir.  It's just that...”

 

“Chip, you're going to have to trust me,” Harry said softening his approach.  When I find Lee, I'm quite sure he fully expects you to be taking care of Seaview until he returns.  Now do you want to explain to Captain Crane why his Executive Officer has been found medically unfit to serve aboard his submarine?”

 

Chip took a deep breath and nodded in the negative.  “No Sir, that's one conversation I don't want to have with Lee Crane,” he said with a small smile.

 

“Then we understand one another?  Your guilt is misplaced and illogical,” Harry said summing up their talk.

 

“Aye Sir.  I won't him let him down... or you Sir,” Chip promised as Harry offered a sincere smile.

 

“And there's a young lady outside...”

 

“Aye Sir, I won't let her down either,” Chip said returning his smile.  “Thank you Admiral,” he added sincerely as Harry reached over and laid a hand on Chip's shoulder adding a heartfelt squeeze.

 

“I've got to check with the local police on the vessels that left port just after the attack.  I'll let you know what I find out,” Harry offered as he placed his cover on his head and left.

 

Monica entered the room shortly after.  “Is everything okay?” she asked cautiously taking Chip's hand in hers as she sat.

 

Chip pulled her closer for a kiss and smiled as they parted.  “Everything's fine.  Now what dates did you come up with?” He asked taking strength from the delight in Monica's eyes.

 

* * * * *

 

The Watcher followed the sound of moans to the companionway leading to the ship's cabins and found the American on the deck.

 

“Lee?”  Moana Yutang called as she gently turned him over, unsure if he had any injuries.  The light from the outside was barely enough to catch the glossiness in his eyes as he struggled to recognize the woman before him.

 

“Lee, it's me Moana.” 

 

It had only been a couple of months since she posed as General Li Cheng of the Underground in an effort to help Lee and his team find the defecting scientist Blake Halden.  The scientist was suspected of operating a secret base that was directly responsible for both the destruction of a space probe and the deaths of two astronauts.  Along with Sharkey and Kowalski, they were successful in exposing the fake “Li Cheng” a spy, and destroyed the secret underground facility.   Moana's detailed schematics of the facility had been the key to saving the second space capsule as it entered orbit.***  She recognized Lee on the beach but wasn't sure if he was on a mission; she didn't want to interfere, but it soon became apparent he was unwell. 

 

Moana's homeland was on the mainland, a relatively small but powerful nation with an oppressive regime.  The Underground operated stealthily on this neighboring island as communications with the outside world were easier had.

 

Lee studied her face as flashes of the jungle played before him, followed by the raid on the underground facility.

 

“Moana?” He breathed out.

 

“Yes.  What's wrong Lee?  Are you on a mission?”

 

“No.  Kidnapped... drugged,” he said squeezing his eyes tight as thinking was draining.

 

“Let's get you out of the hall and into one of these cabins,” Moana suggested as she helped Lee to his feet and guided him to an open cabin.  She cleared a cot as he stretched out and moaned again.

 

“I'll be right back,” she said gently and left as Lee surveyed the cabin. 

 

Flashes of another cabin on another boat invaded his mind as he suddenly became disoriented, believing he was back on Guang's boat.  He heard a rustling and knew he needed to escape the impending injection.  He swung his legs off the cot and steadied himself, ready to run out the door when Moana reappeared blocking his escape.

 

“Lee, where are you going?”

 

“Got to get away... can't let him use the needle again...”

 

“No Lee, look at me,” she said drawing his attention to her eyes.  “You're safe here.”

 

He looked into her eyes and then at the cabin around him and realized where he was as Moana guided him back to the cot.

 

“Hard to think,” he admitted with a moan.

 

“It's alright, just rest,” she said taking in his filthy clothes, soiled with three days of forced labor.  Moana placed a hand on his forehead and then ran it down the side of his face, her brown eyes full of concern as she began to wash the dirt and sweat from his face.  His three day beard was testimony of the days he had endured in the hands of his enemy, though she didn't know who that was.  When she finished his face she reached for his shirt and unbuttoned it, spreading it open as she tendered a sponge bath to freshen him as best as she could.  For all her ministrations Lee didn't waken, the exhaustion having claimed him as he finally felt safe.

 

Moana knew she needed to contact the Underground and convey the news to Washington regarding Lee's whereabouts, but she was concerned he would wake disoriented again.  She didn't want to take a chance of his “jumping ship” and being found by his enemy.  She thought it best to stay until he woke, by then he would likely be more lucid and able to understand that she was going for help.

 

Moana sat back, her dark brown hair extending past her shoulders and tucked neatly behind her ears as she gazed into his face.  It was too soon since her husband's death to care for another man, but she was drawn to Lee and wanted to help.  She had lost her husband in an ambush, the pain was still too fresh, and seeing Lee so vulnerable had stirred up that pain once again as she recalled their last mission.  Lee hadn't trusted her; she couldn't blame him but in the end they had made a good team.  Moana sighed, feeling this retrospective moment wasn't good for her, she needed to stay focused.  When Lee woke she would leave and contact the Underground.

 

“It won't be long, Lee,” she whispered.  “You'll be back on your Boat soon,” she promised comfortingly.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee woke several hours later holding his stomach and rolling to his side as he curled into a ball.  He was lucid and aware, more aware than he'd been since being abducted but the cramps in his mid-section were debilitating.

 

“What's wrong, Lee?” Moana asked rushing to his side.

 

“I don't know,” he breathed out.  “It hurts...” another groan escaped as Moana rubbed his back.

 

“How many injections did they give you?”

 

“Don't know... seems like every time I woke...”

 

“Your beard is at least three days old Lee, you've been drugged continually.  I think you're going through withdrawals,” she surmised as he nodded his understanding and gasped burying his face into the cot.

 

“Lee, if I leave now I can get back to the safe house and notify the Underground.  I can get you help,” she explained sitting beside him on the cot and rubbing his back as he curled tighter on his side.  She started to stand as he reached for her hand weakly pulling her back. 

 

“Don't go... just yet,” he managed to breathe out as she took in the pain he was trying to manage.

 

“I'll stay,” she promised, also realizing that Lee was totally incapacitated and would be unable to defend himself in this condition.  “I'll stay,” she repeated as she pushed wet curls from his forehead offering what comfort she could.

 

* * * * *

 

Guang and Koji searched the port city for Crane.  They had woken to find their boat making a large circle in the middle of the shipping lane with all hands accounted for, only Crane was missing.  Guang didn't know how he could have affected the escape in his condition but never suspected Suyin who had woken several hours after them, her small frame having taken a greater dose he surmised. 

 

Guang was noticeably concerned as Koji had reminded him what would happen if Crane escaped.  He knew he would draw the anger of Dr. Gamma and that knowledge fueled his determination to find the American.  As they approached the dock Guang suddenly pulled Koji behind some crates loaded on the dock and peered around them.

 

“What?” Koji whispered as Guang pointed to their boat and the officials swarming around it. 

 

“They're searching for Crane,” Guang answered quietly as they watched the local officials meander about the deck.  The activity on board etched up as one of the officials emerged holding Lee's uniform.

 

“I thought you were going to ditch those at sea?” Koji asked accusingly.

 

“I wanted him to be executed in his uniform,” Guang defended as he backed away.

 

“Come on, they know he's here somewhere.  We've got to find him first or there'll be nowhere we can hide from Gamma,” Guang finished solemnly.

 

* * * * *

 

Harry paced the nose in Seaview, barely noticing the view the fantastic windows provided.  Three days.  It had been three days and they were still no closer to finding Lee.  ONI was working with one of the large island nations off the Southeast Asian coastline as they tracked one of the boats that had left the harbor after Lee's attack; so far it was their only lead.  He'd been told to sit tight until he heard from Admiral Johnson but the waiting was getting to him.  He rubbed the back of his neck in frustration and then turned to stand in front of Seaview's herculite windows.

 

“Where are you, Lee?” he whispered out loud, looking out but missing the beauty of the setting sun as another day passed without word on Lee Crane.

 

“Admiral, a video call coming in from ONI, Sir,” Sparks' voice was heard over the com system as Harry reached for the mic.

 

“I'll take it in the nose, Sparks.”

 

“Aye Sir.”

 

Harry closed the crash doors, then turned the dial as the transmission lines sharpened into the image of Gerald Johnson. 

 

“I hope you have good news for me, Gerald.”

 

“We've got something,” Johnson stated, leaving it to Harry to decide whether it was good news or not.  “We caught up with one of the boats we were looking for on an island nation off the Southeast coast of the mainland,” Gerald stated as Harry leaned back against the conference table listening intently.  “The local authorities found his uniform on board.  There's no sign of Crane, but the uniform doesn't show any signs of injury and the island authorities are fully cooperating with our investigation.  I've already alerted the Underground, they have contacts on this island.  Between those contacts and the island authorities we may be able to come up with something.  I'll contact you when I have more.”

 

“Very well, Gerald,” Harry replied and signed off turning back toward the windows deep in thought. 

 

He wasn't sure if finding Lee's uniform was good news or not; he could be on the island or he could have been dumped at sea. 

 

“No,” Harry decided out loud.  “He's on the island,” he finished stubbornly and opened the crash doors. 

 

“Mr. O'Brien ready FS1, I want her ready to go at a moment's notice,” Harry said full of determination.

 

“Chief, you and Kowalski get ready.  Once I get the call I'm expecting, then you're coming with me,” Harry ordered taking the spiral steps two at a time as he left the Control Room to Sharkey's enthusiastic, “Aye Sir!”

 

* * * * *

 

The sun began to set as Lee lay exhausted from cramps and drenched in his own sweat.  He didn't have much in his stomach, but lost what he did have in several bouts of vomits.  Had he been in the hospital the doctors would have brought him down slowly, but Lee had to withdraw “cold turkey” from his body's dependency, a painful process. 

 

Moana had managed to shrug off his dirty tunic earlier but now Lee was beginning to shiver as a fever came on, his body's attempt to purge the drug from his system.  His shivers turned violent as Moana found a wool blanket and pulled it over his shoulders.  The shivers turned to shaking as she made a decision, lifting the blanket and sliding in next to Lee, allowing her body to warm his.  He wrapped his arm around her small frame and pulled her close, barely aware but needing her body next to his as much for comfort as for warmth and fell into a pained sleep. 

 

* * * * *

 

Lee woke the next morning with Moana snuggled in close, his arm still wrapped around her as he lay on his side.  He raised himself on an elbow leaning to rest his cheek against his curled hand and watched her sleep.  He remembered the mission and watching her sleep on FS1 several months ago.  She was beautifully exotic then and even more so now with her soft body against his.  He reached for a strand of hair lying across her face and moved it gently away, then stroked her cheek with the back of his hand.  Moana's eyes opened as he found himself staring down into a pool of chocolate brown eyes and smiled.

 

“Hi,” he said, still weary from his ordeal.

 

“Hi,” she returned with her own smile but making no attempt to move.  “How are you feeling this morning?”

 

“Better... thanks to you,” Lee replied and then looked away with a small sigh.  “Moana, I'm sorry...” he started, seeking to apologize for snuggling so closely with her last night.  His fever had broken and the blankets were now pulled down to his hips, his shoulders bare as he leaned over her.

 

“Don't be,” she interrupted.  “You were cold, I was glad to help,” she finished, then reached up to caress his cheek gently.

 

Her touch stirred him as Lee responded by placing a gentle hand to her chin and lifting it; he kissed her gently but longingly and then wrapped his arm around her, deepening the kiss as she responded. 

 

He leaned back, knowing he needed to stop as she smiled with regret and then moved to get out of the cot, returning to the task at hand.

 

“I'll head back to the Safe House and get word to Washington.  Do you want me to contact the local authorities?”

 

“No, you're the only one I trust here.”

 

“Will you be alright while I'm gone?”

 

“Yeah, I feel a little weak, but I'll be alright.  What about the restorers of the boat, what if they return?” He asked watching her adjust her blouse and belt as she readied to leave.

 

“The boat has sat here in this condition for some time, I don't think they'll return any time soon,” she answered.

 

“Okay,” he said returning to his professional spy mode, as she turned to leave.

 

“Moana,” he called as she turned toward her name.  “Thanks for staying with me last night,” he offered sincerely as she smiled and then left the cabin. 

 

Lee listened as she climbed the ladder to the deck, her steps barely heard as the seasoned Underground Agent made her way off the boat.  He was tired, his muscles ached and his head hurt so he lay on his back with a hand bent under his head and rested.  He had all his memories back, all his cognitive abilities; the picture of Chip was still fresh in his mind but his hope had returned.  Only a little longer, he thought, and I'll be home.  He smiled to himself and closed his eyes as sleep found him once more.

 

* * * * *

 

Guang and Koji dodged the local police, they couldn't return home as the boat's registration would provide a trail back there.  They rented a room for the night and started fresh the next morning, understanding their need to find Crane before Gamma sent his hit men for them.  By now the drug would have worked through Crane's system, but without help he couldn't get far.  They had heard plenty as gossip spread on the docks about their boat reportedly making a wide circle for hours, and one person said a boat matching that description had been noted out of the shipping lanes and heading down the southern coastline.  They didn't have anything else to go on as the two followed the beach line south.

 

* * * * *

 

Harry emerged from his private head with a towel in hand having just finished shaving as he answered the call on his intercom.

 

“A video call for you Sir.  ONI,” Sparks reported.

 

“Very well, Sparks.  Put it through,” Harry said shrugging on his khaki shirt and buttoning it up before turning on the monitor as he lowered himself into the desk chair.

 

“Harriman,” Johnson greeted and continued without waiting for Harry's response.  “We found him.  He was spotted by an Underground Agent last evening.  She's returning to his location and will turn on a transponder once there.  She reports he's weak from the drugs used on him, but otherwise injury free,” he reported with satisfaction.

 

Harry grinned but then turned his expression to a “can't be denied” determination as he spoke. “I've got FS1 standing by Gerald.  I'll go get him myself,” he stated rather than asked as Johnson smiled.

 

“I thought you'd say that.  Take FS1 in submerged and send frogmen out with two sets of dive tanks.  The Underground Agent will brief you on board before returning to shore.”

 

“Very well.  What's the transmission frequency for the transponder?”

 

Johnson rattled off the frequency as Harry jotted it down and repeated the number in a self-check.

 

“We'll be ready to move as soon as the transponder is activated,” Harry noted and then offered a satisfied closed mouth smile.  “Very good work Gerald.  Tell your team, 'Very good',” Harry said as the two signed off.

 

Harry's subdued smile turned wide as he reached for the intercom making an intentional all-boat announcement.

 

“Mr. O'Brien, ready FS1 for launch and have Chief Sharkey and Kowalski ready themselves for departure... we found Captain Crane.”

 

“Aye Sir,” O'Brien answered enthusiastically as a collective silent sigh was heaved throughout the Boat.

 

Harry clicked the intercom again.  “Sparks, get me the hospital.  I think there's a certain Exec who needs some good news,” Harry said with satisfaction as Sparks connected his call.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee woke to the sounds of someone moving down the companionway.  He listened and then sat up, the steps weren't soft and silent like Moana's.  He moved to stand but found himself a bit dizzy as the door opened and he stood face to face with his captor once again.

 

“Well now Crane, it looks like I'm going to get to finish you off after all,” Guang stated as Koji sided up next to him, having come from checking another cabin.

 

“I see you're free from the drug.  It's too bad you're too weak to fight,” he said holding a gun on Lee.  “I'd much prefer to kill you with my bare hands,” he finished cocking the gun.

 

“Your brother thought he could take me too,” Lee taunted, needing to find some other option besides a bullet in the gut.

 

“You saw what I did to the blonde one,” Guang said.  “I left him to bleed to death,” he finished, knowing precisely the injury he had inflicted upon Chip.

 

“You'll never know if you pull that trigger,” Lee challenged.

 

“Never know what?”

 

“If you can really take me,” Lee answered, knowing he was severely handicapped in his present condition but having no other options at this point.

 

“I will enjoy this very much,” Guang said handing his gun to Koji and then noticing Lee's fit frame as his shirt was still piled on the floor.  He unbuttoned his own shirt and shrugged it off to expose his own fit abs as he assumed a bare-chested Bruce Lee stance.

 

“There is no honor in this Guang, he can barely stand,” Koji interjected.

 

“He has challenged me.  The dishonor would be in not fighting him,” he defended as he waved his hands in a menacing fashion across his body.

 

Guang moved forward taking only a step when he heard a thud behind him.  He risked a look back and found Koji out cold behind him and then looked up to receive a solid knock to his face with the base of an extended palm producing a flow of blood from his broken nose.  The surprise attack was followed with a swift devastating kick to his mid-section as his eyes went wide and he instinctively bent over his newly broken ribs.  His neck was then the recipient of a solid karate chop as Guang found himself falling hard and meeting blackness before he hit the deck.

 

“Are you alright?” Moana asked easing her attack mode with the two bad guys lying helplessly unconscious at her feet.  She dragged them out of the doorway and into the hall and started tying their hands and feet with twine and rope pieces found littered on the deck as Lee joined her securing the men and disposing of them in an adjacent cabin.  He was stronger but easily fatigued as they returned to his cabin with Moana lending her aid to steady him.  They reached the door as Moana reached to pick up a package wrapped in brown paper and tied with a string, discarded earlier while she took care of her “two little problems”.  She dropped the package on the cot as Lee swayed slightly, still weak from battling the drug throughout the night.

 

“You're going to have to teach me how you do that,” Lee said with a grin referring to her swift handling of Guang and Koji, as she lowered him to sit on the cot having sided up next to him under his arm.

 

“My husband Li taught me,” she said with a fond memory of happier times as Lee returned her smile. 

 

“He was a fortunate man,” Lee noted.  “And not just because you can drop your opponents like a rock,” he finished with a grin.

 

Moana smiled and lowered her eyes a bit embarrassed and then remembered the package. 

 

“I brought a change of clothes for you.”

 

She unwrapped the package, handing him the clothing then showed him the transponder stashed inside.

 

“They are sending your yellow submarine,” she said as Lee picked up the shirt.  “They will transmit a flash signal and send frogmen.  We'll follow them back to your flying sub.  I will brief your commander and then return to deal with those two, the local police are looking for them,” she said clarifying her intent.

 

“They should be here in a little over an hour,” Lee said calculating FS1's Mach 2 speed, as he shrugged on the clean white shirt.

 

“We have time,” she said mysteriously, stopping his motion of buttoning the shirt and then reaching to caress his face.

 

Lee gazed into her eyes and lowered his head for a kiss as she slid the shirt off his shoulders, her fingers riding an exciting trail down his back.  The kiss deepened as he responded in kind reaching for her breast as the two lowered themselves to the cot, lost in the ecstasy of their mutual desires and the passion of the moment...

 

* * * * *

 

The bad guys were secured and stowed away in a locked cabin as the flash signal was received. 

 

“That's it,” she said, recognizing the signal and standing as Lee stood beside her.  He pulled her close taking in one last gentle kiss.

 

“Thank you Moana... for everything,” he said with a soft smile that made his eyes twinkle.  “Are you sure about those stars?” He asked, remembering their last mission and his invitation for her to return to America.***

 

“I'm sure.  But you will always have a special place in my heart.”

 

“As will you,” he promised and kissed her forehead lingering for just a moment then headed to the hatch to meet the frogmen.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee and Moana were waiting in the surf as the frogmen appeared each holding a dive tank.  They were quickly fitted and dove safely in the depths as they swam toward FS1.  Lee swam slower than usual but unaided as Sharkey cracked the hatch and proceeded up first.  Lee followed and was helped aboard by Sharkey and Harry's helpful hands.

 

“Welcome back, Lee,” Harry said barely holding a glisten back in his eyes.

 

“Thank you Sir.  It's good to be back,” he returned pulling his feet out of the moon pool as Moana surfaced and boarded, followed by Ski.

 

“This is Moana Yutang, she found me yesterday and saved my life again just an hour ago,” Lee reported introducing the Underground Agent and giving her credit where it was due.

 

“Miss Yutang, I'm in your debt,” Harry said with an extended hand.

 

“I'm just glad I happened along,” she said with a smile and then proceeded to brief Harry as Ski wrapped a blanket around Lee and offered him a chair in the back of the sub, which he took gratefully.

 

“Very well, Moana,” Harry said, having been invited to call her by her first name.  “Would you care for a tour of Seaview?” he offered graciously inviting to bring her aboard.

 

“Another time,” she returned.  “Right now I've got a couple of 'little problems' to take care of,” she finished sharing a knowing chuckle with Lee.  “I have the two men who abducted Lee, I'll turn them over to the police when you are safely away.”

 

Harry smiled at her efficiency.  “Very well Moana, but I do look forward to giving you a tour another time,” Harry said as Sharkey and Ski added their own appreciative smiles for the beautiful Asian spy. 

 

“Thank you, I look forward to it.  Good bye Captain Crane,” she offered professionally as their intimate good byes had already been rendered.

 

“Good bye Moana.  Take care out there.”

 

She smiled her response and donned her dive tank once again, dropping into the moon pool deftly and dogging the outer hatch behind her.  Sharkey dogged the inner hatch and then checked the situation lights.

 

“All secure, Sir,” Sharkey reported as Lee shrugged off Ski's ministrations and moved to the co-pilot's seat strapping in.

 

“Are you ready, Lee?” Harry asked with a satisfied grin.

 

“Let's go home Sir,” Lee answered as FS1 trolled out further and then hit the open seas at thirty-five knots.  When they were far enough away from the island, she broke the surface and took to the sky in a triumphant flight toward Seaview.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee was greeted to a round of applause as he stepped out of the flying sub's hatch.

 

“Thank you men,” he said a bit embarrassed but acknowledging their relief and concern.  Jamie was waiting as well, but Lee insisted on a call to ONI first.  Seaview's doctor relented and headed to Sickbay expressing his expectation of Lee's presence as soon as his video call was finished.

 

Lee reported what he remembered including Suyin's brave part in his rescue, but since he wasn't lucid when Guang and Koji mentioned Dr. Gamma he wasn't able to link the abduction to anything else but a brother's revenge.  He briefed the Admirals on Moana finding him in the derelict boat and her able handling of the two abductors.

 

“It sounds like we owe much of the success of your return to these two women,” Johnson noted and silently contemplating the fact that only Crane could find two beautiful women to aid in his rescue in the middle of a hopeless situation.

 

“Aye Sir,” Lee agreed.  “And I'm sure a lot of hard work from ONI and the Admiral here,” he added recognizing both the Admirals' efforts.

 

“And the local authorities on two islands as well,” Harry added grateful that both island nations had cooperated so well.

 

“Very well, Commander.  I'm pleased that you're back in one piece.  I'll look forward to an AAR in the next few days.”

 

“Aye Sir.”

 

“Harriman, I'll leave the Commander to your CMO's care, have him send over the medical report along with his duty status.”

 

“Fine Gerald,” Harry replied with a satisfied smile.

 

“Johnson out.”

 

The screen went black as Harry placed a hand on Lee's shoulder.

 

“Come on Lee.  Next stop Sickbay,” he finished with a grin as they lingered for just a moment and then opened the crash doors and headed aft through a happy Control Room.   Lee checked the situation boards and patted a few shoulders on his way out, his clothes still damp from swimming and a four day beard on his face, but the Skipper was back and that's all that mattered.

 

* * * * *

 

Seaview's Chief Medical Officer gave Lee a physical, drew a blood sample then ordered him to bed.

 

“Jamie I need see Chip,” Lee countered.

 

“I know you do Skipper, but the Admiral can call the hospital and inform Chip you've been found.  You're running on adrenalin right now and before long you're going to crash and that won't do you or Chip any good.”  Jamie smiled his “I-understand-but-you're-not-going-to-get-your-way-this-time” smile as Lee relented.

 

“Alright Jamie, but I'm heading over bright and early tomorrow morning,” Lee stated in his “I'm-the-Captain” tone.

 

“Aye Skipper,” Jamie replied, expecting nothing less from the dedicated officer.  “Now your blood sugar's low, I imagine you haven't eaten much these last few days so if you want to avoid that bunk over there I suggest you order up a nice thick steak and then hit the sack.”

 

“Don't worry Jamie,” Harry chimed in.  “I've already ordered dinner and Captain Crane here is headed straight for his cabin,” he finished adding his “My-Four-Stars-beat-your-Silver-Oak-Leaves-any-day-so-don't-mess-with-me,” tone.

 

Lee smiled as he buttoned his khaki shirt, having dispensed of his wet clothes and availing himself of the Sickbay shower.  He was even clean shaven, having rid himself of his dark stubbled beard.  A hot meal sounded great and he was actually looking forward to hitting the rack even though it was mid-day.  It had been a rough four days on everyone and Lee was just glad to be back home, mother-henned and all.

 

* * * * *

 

Lee and Harry entered the hospital room to see Chip reclining in a 45 degree semi-sitting position.  His face sported better color even under the bruises and the bandage around his head had since been removed. 

 

“Hi Chip,” Lee said taking in the sight of his best friend looking like he'd been in the ring ten rounds with a heavy weight boxer. 

 

Monica sensed the emotional moment and stepped back with her father who had sided up next to Harry, as Lee approached Chip with an extended hand.  They grasped hands for a moment until Chip unashamedly pulled Lee into a bear hug as the two brothers reveled in the fact that the other was safe.  Lee drew back and sighed, willing his glistening eyes back into submission.

 

“You're sight for sore eyes,” Lee finally got out.

 

“You too Lee,” Chip returned his voice breaking slightly as he swallowed hard. 

 

“The Admiral told me what happened,” Chip continued his voice and emotions now completely under control.

 

“Yeah, lucky me I guess,” Lee replied referring to being kidnapped.  “I'm just sorry you had to pay for it.”

 

Chip shook his head.  “Let's not go there Lee, it wasn't your fault.”

 

Lee nodded and then turned to greet the other occupants of the room. 

 

“It's good to see you Monica,” he said giving her a hug and nodding toward Robert as she returned to her chair, picking up Chip's hand and squeezing tightly. 

 

“Hope he hasn't given you any trouble, he's a terrible patient you know,” Lee grinned as if telling a secret on Chip.

 

“Oh he's been a good boy,” Monica returned with a grin as Chip rolled his eyes in mock exasperation.

 

“Did the Admiral tell you our news?”  Monica asked, her eyes twinkling.

 

Lee turned toward Harry as he stepped forward into the conversation.

 

“No,” Harry answered.  “I thought I'd let you do that.”

 

“What news?” Lee asked basking in Monica's excitement and noting the same in Chip's eyes.

 

“We're moving the wedding up.  It's all been arranged to fit with Seaview's schedule,” she announced.

 

“Great!  I didn't think the happy fool could last seven months anyway.  So when's the big date?”

 

“In a month,” Chip and Monica both said in unison and then chuckled together like school kids.

 

“Are you going to be healed enough Chip?” Lee asked with concern.

 

“In every way,” he replied with a wink to Monica that neither Lee nor Robert Felton missed.  Robert raised an eyebrow but relented with a smile for the happy couple, hoping that meant grandchildren in the near future.

 

“And I promised Monica that both you and I would be injury free for the Dress Whites,” Chip admonished with a grin.

 

“You got it,” Lee said reaching for a hug and a kiss to Monica's cheek and then a handshake from Chip.

 

“So Dr. Singh tells me you're on the mend and will be ready to transport to Seaview tomorrow,” Lee said switching gears and acknowledging that Chip's healing spleen had passed muster without further surgery.

 

“That's what he tells me,” Chip replied sharing a knowing glance with Harry whose little pep talk helped Chip let go of his guilt allowing his body to heal.

 

“Are you taking the cruise back with us?” Lee asked Monica.

 

“Oh heavens no!” She replied.  “With the wedding in just over four weeks I can't afford to be two weeks at sea.  Dad and I are leaving tonight,” she finished.

 

“Then I think that's our cue to head out.  Jamie only cleared me for a short visit,” Lee said raising a hand to fend off Chip's concern.  “I'm off duty today while the residuals clear out of my blood,” he said in cloaked form that he knew Chip would understand, “And I'm back on Full Duty status tomorrow.”

 

“Alright Skipper.  I'll see you tomorrow,” Chip returned as Lee added a pat to his shoulder and shook Robert's hand on the way out.

 

“You're getting a good son-in-law, Sir,” Lee said.

 

“I know,” Robert replied looking across the room to his happy daughter.  “I know.”

 

“See you tomorrow Chip,” Lee repeated as he followed Harry out the door.

 

* * * * *

 

Chip was transported without incident and was resting comfortably in Sickbay.  He'd spend the next day in Jamie's care under observation and was expected to be released to his cabin for several days.  Jamie would ease him back into duty slowly, but mostly he'd be relegated to desk duty for the trip home. 

 

Harry and Lee had spent part of the day at the police station as JAG and the two islands negotiated extradition for Guang and Koji.  With the details left in JAG's hands Lee was finally cleared to leave port, which he was only too happy to do at this point.

 

The sun was setting as Lee stood in the Sail, navigating Seaview from the break waters out to sea.  He lingered in the Sail taking in the salt air as Seaview headed home, watching the emerging stars begin to peek through the twilight sky and thinking about Moana.  He knew their lives moved in different directions and harbored no regrets, instead he chose to ponder the special time they shared as he leaned against the tower with his chin resting on his folded hands.

 

He heard someone climbing the ladder and knew it was Harry, but resumed his comfortable stance watching the stars.

 

“Mind if I join you?” Harry said easily.

 

“Not at all, Sir,” Lee answered completely relaxed.  “I was just watching the stars come out.”

 

“Hmmm,” Harry said taking a glance upwards.  “You know a couple of nights ago I looked out on this same sky and wondered if we'd get to share a moment like this again,” Harry said in an unexpected candid moment as Lee swallowed hard.

 

“I know, Sir.  I wasn't sure I'd make it home this time,” Lee admitted softly.

 

Harry nodded watching the stars get brighter as the sky darkened.  “Well, the important thing is you did,” Harry answered as he silently pondered how empty Seaview would be without Lee at the helm and then shook off the thought with a hearty pat to Lee's back.

 

“Well Captain, I hear that Cookie has put together a feast tonight.  Are you ready to relinquish the stars and take Seaview to the depths?”

 

“Aye Sir,” Lee replied with a smile, Harry's unwitting statement putting everything into perfect perspective as he relinquished Moana to her world, a love for the island she called home and a husband she still mourned; it was time to return to his world... deep under the sea.

 

His smile widened as Harry caught the twinkle in his eyes and the two climbed down the Conning Tower into Seaview's Control Room.

 

“Make every preparation to dive Mr. O'Brien,” Lee ordered as he walked to the Chart Table to plot out their journey home.

 

* * * * *

 

Dr. Gamma rolled an unlit extra-long filtered cigarette between his fingers as he pondered the nine lives Lee Crane seemed to have, but he didn't have time to plot against Seaview's Captain right now.  Right now he had bigger fish to fry, but sooner or later their paths would cross again, that he was sure of, he thought silently as he lit his cigarette and leaned back putting Lee Crane out of his mind... for now.

 

 

The End

 

Shanghaied

 

 

 

* See my story And a Child Shall Lead Them

 

** Partial Splenectomy and repairing tears – The procedure of repairing spleens rather than total removal is fairly new and probably wasn't available during my Voyage timeline, but is presented as an emerging technique.   My research was limited and should not be construed as more than a fanfiction writer's creative license mixed with a few buzz words to make it look good.  Citation Note: the paragraph denoted with ** is very nearly a direct quote from WebMD.  

http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/ruptured-spleen?page=4

http://www.livestrong.com/article/187243-what-are-the-treatments-for-a-ruptured-spleen/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Splenectomy

 

*** See the Second Season episode The Silent Saboteurs, written by Sidney Marshall, story by Max Ehrlich, directed by Sobey Martin, original air date November 28, 1965.  My story contains synopsis, scenes and paraphrases from the episode.

 

Author's Notes:  Chip's storyline is often played out in minor sub-plots throughout my stories.  For a complete list of Chip's storyline see the “Story Series and Sequels” Index on the right hand side of Lynn's Page. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright 2015, All Rights Reserved

Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea and her main characters belong to Irwin Allen