They Came to Kill

11

Via satellite-relayed long-distance telephone, Blancanales talked with Captain Soto of the army of Mexico. In the months since Able Team — aided by then-Lieutenant Soto — attacked the forces of the Fascist International, politics had played a central role in the life of Soto. The officer mentioned arrest and imprisonment followed by reinstatement and promotion to captain. But he held no bitterness for the North Americans. He laughed at the difficulties caused by Able Team's previous visit to Mexico.

"I am now famous. A hero," Soto declared. "I will tell you many stories when you visit."

"And we will tell you a story. Perhaps you will have a role to play."

"Oh? You come on business?"

"Important business. Can you meet us at the airport?"

"Certainly! Of course. It will be my pleasure to..."

"Can you meet us beforewe go through Customs?"

"Oh, I understand... I will think of something. Leave the plane last. Do not follow the crowd into the terminal."

"We will see you. If there is a delay or if we must change flights, we'll call again."

"Good. I look forward to your visit."

After breaking the connection, Blancanales paid the desk clerk in dollars. He received his change in Greek currency. He did not bother to count the change. Able Team would be on Cyprus only another hour.

Gadgets and Lyons waited outside the tourist hotel in a limousine. Blancanales hurried through the freezing rain and joined his partners in the warmth of the idling Mercedes.

"You talked to him?" Lyons asked.

"He said he can help us..."

"Great." Lyons signaled the driver to continue to the airport.

"But you know," Blancanales continued. "He's had serious problems since we were there."

"He still in the service?" Gadgets asked.

"He was in prison. Now he's back in the service. With a promotion to captain."

Lyons laughed. "After this, maybe he'll hit major."