The Rock

COOPERATION

The Russian admiral stared at the black Wall for a long time before turning back to Lamb. "It is the same as the photos my people sent of what they uncovered at Tunguska. The story your Major Hawkins told you is the same one our Colonel Tuskin told. He is reported to be a very reliable man."

Lamb's gut was still tied in knots. The K-25 helicopter bringing the ranking officer of the Russian fleet off the southern coast of Australia had landed a half hour earlier and he'd spent that time fully briefing a man whom he had worked hard the last several days trying to keep from knowing what was going on. It was an odd change for Lamb and he was having trouble adjusting to it.

The admiral turned to Lamb. "So what now? I have seen all this and can report to my superiors, but what does it all mean?"

Lamb shrugged. "I don't know. I think that is for your President and mine to decide between them." He looked the Russian in the eyes. "For me it means that we stop playing games-at least for now-and cooperate."