Chapter 136

"Well, Lieutenant?"

I really had no choice. The operation was for Elke, and Elke was my responsibility.

"Yes, Sir, I volunteer."

The Colonel nodded as if this was expected and said, "You're relieved from all duties. I'll speak with Captain Myer. Go with the First Sergeant, and he'll explain how it's going to happen."

We drove to a building some distance from the office.

Something had bothered me ever since Elke came back from Choiden. "Top, they never were going after Sophie, were they?"

"Lieutenant, you and I don't know the answer to that question. War and spying is nasty business, and sometimes bad things happen. No good can come to you and Elke if you let that question fester in you.

"You should focus on the mission.

"Right now you're going to meet the team. You're going to face a great deal of hostility from these men. They train as a team and you're breaking up the team. They know you didn't make the decision, but you're an officer. Their attitude against you doesn't make