The Exodus Quest

THIRTY-EIGHT
I

'Have you still got that remote-controlled aircraft?' asked Augustin, walking unannounced into Mansoor's SCA office.

'I'm in a meeting,' protested Mansoor, gesturing to the three men in sombre dark suits around his table. 'Can't this wait?'

'There!' said Augustin, spotting the outsize box leaning against the wall. He opened it up, looked inside. A GWS Slowstick. Perfect. As easy to operate as they came. He checked through the components, fuel, remote controls, batteries and other attachments. Everything he'd need.

'It's not mine,' protested Mansoor. 'It belongs to the Germans. It's valuable equipment. I can't possibly let you just take it.'

Augustin hefted it to his shoulder, nodded at the suits. 'Nice to meet you all,' he said.

'You'll return it?' asked Mansoor plaintively. 'Rudi will kill me if anything happens to it.'

'You'll have it back this evening,' promised Augustin. 'You have my word.'

'That's what you said about my GPS.'

But the door banged closed behind Augustin. He was on his way.