This is a second season story inspired by the Moonlight challenge, and is my back story to why Admiral Johnson personally vouched for Chip's “skills” in my season three story, No Man Left Behind.

Plausible Deniability

by Lynn

Lt. Commander Chip Morton swam the final few feet to the island scanning the beach for a “welcome party” but saw none. He rose out of the dark waters and made a bee-line straight for the nearest cover, the moonlight acting both as friend and foe at the same time. He'd appreciate the light it gave once he was safe in the cover of the rich island foliage, but out in the open it glistened off his diving gear like a neon light. As he reached the safety of the thick vegetation he scanned again for any hint of his arrival being known. He let out a silent sigh of relief and took a quick look toward Seaview's profile as she sat just outside the breakwaters near the port, setting his waterproof bag down on the jungle floor beside him. It had been a long swim, but well worth it to ensure his stealth arrival. Satisfied that he had landed undetected he began to shed his diving suit, as beads of water glistened from his hair sliding down his face in the process.

He stripped down and used a small hand towel from the bag to dry off, and then slid into his black denim jeans and black pullover knit shirt. He normally never wore black on black preferring brighter colors and had actually had to borrow this one from Lee's closet. He thought about how many times it irked him to see Lee dress in this combination, because Lee never wore black on black either unless he was ready to go slinking off on some ONI mission. Chip finished tying his shoes and pulled out his .45 checking his weapon for readiness and then tucking it under his shirt; he was pretty sure he was going to need it. He took one last look up at the starry sky above and took a deep breath, then positioned his backpack over his shoulder.

He wasn't technically authorized to be here, but the nearly undetectable nod and the look in Nelson's eyes gave his orders as clearly as if he had bellowed them out from across the control room floor. Harry's hands were tied, he couldn't do anything without endangering Seaview and ultimately Lee. So he had passed an inaudible order in his suggestion to “take care of his other responsibilities,” giving Chip free reign to find Lee. Strangely, he thought he caught the same order in Admiral Johnson's eyes as he explained that the diplomatic situation in the country was currently tense, at best strained, and there would be no “official” rescue. He didn't know Johnson the way Lee did, but those cold blue eyes seemed to be saying something totally contrary to what his lips were uttering.

So here Chip was, alone, save for the little back-up he had arranged if all went well and he found Lee. The crazy thing was Lee wasn't even on a mission. He wasn't off playing spy and had just ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time. But the current government officials running this small but important island country didn't see it that way. He had been recognized, by who was still a mystery, but someone connected Lee's day job and his “night” job together and suddenly decided that he was on an espionage mission inside their country. He was arrested as a spy and imprisoned without a trial date or outside representation. The United States had, of course, denied he was even a Field Operative needing to protect both his cover and any connection to his prior missions around the world. The whole mess had left Lee a pawn in someone else's game.

Chip took one last look at Seaview as she maneuvered away from the breakwaters and submerged as the moon lit night provided enough light to watch her disappear in the ocean depths. He moved deeper into the jungle heading toward the heart of the island, past the port town and towards the last known location of Lee Crane.

* * * * *

Captain Lee Crane lay on his small cot with one leg bent at the knee, a hand splayed over his stomach and his other arm bent under his head. He had been here for three days. He was keenly aware of how many days it had been because that was exactly the amount of time that had elapsed since his last meal. Furthermore, he was given only one cup of water a day. During the entire time he had been arrested he had never once been questioned, despite the fact that he had been accused of being a spy. That fact, and the manner in which he had been treated thus far spelled trouble. He knew the drill, psychological torture. Kept in solitary confinement with no food and not enough water for three days...he was being “softened up” for the physical torture. This wasn't standard treatment for political prisoners, even on this out of the way island. He was pretty sure he'd been set up and that his captors were looking for something in particular from him.

His stomach hurt from the lack of food, but he was more concerned with the small ration of water they had given him. His cell was only slightly better than a sweat box on this humid island and he was suffering from dizziness and head rushes when he stood up; a sure sign that dehydration had set in. The solitude didn't bother him, he knew the game. Instead of spending his time thinking about whether he'd ever see the light of day again, a fear his captors were trying to invoke in him, Lee was spending his time rewriting duty rosters in his head; mentally reviewing the maintenance reports he had looked through before coming ashore, and working through a possible engineering design change he had for the sub's coolant system.

Lee's solitude was interrupted however, when he heard the heavy iron door to his cell begin to creak open. He lolled his head over as several guards manhandled him to his feet. The dizzy spell returned but Lee blinked his eyes and regained his equilibrium as he was led out of the cell. Time to find out what they really wanted.

* * * * *

Chip moved quietly through the dense jungle checking his position with his GPS. The satellite positioning system was in use exclusively by the military and Chip had made sure to ensconce the device on his way out to the moon pool. He would be hiking for most of the night and other than keeping himself from becoming panther bait, he didn't have much else to do but move toward his target area. He was in the middle of the jungle wilderness and didn't expect to meet up with unfriendlies until he reached the private compound. He had plenty of time to think about the events of the last three days and the more he thought about it, the more perplexed he became.

“So what did you think of Monica?” Chip asked as the officers sat in the quaint restaurant on the main street of the island's tourist section.

“She's a looker alright,” Lee answered, knowing Chip wanted something a little deeper.

“Yeah, tell me something I don't know,” Chip replied wistfully. Monica was a beautiful blond with as much class on the inside as beauty on the outside. “But what do you think about her?” He reiterated, enunciating the operative word in his question as he moved the food along his plate aimlessly.

Lee held back his half-smile, “Drives a pretty nice car. You say her father's rich?”

Chip let out an flustered breath knowing Lee was playing him out and tried a different approach, shooting Lee his infamous command glare.

Lee let out a chuckle and decided to let his best friend off the hook. Anyone could see that Chip had fallen hard for Monica Felton.

“I think she's a gem and she really cares for you,” Lee answered as Chip's face softened getting the confirmation he wanted.

“I think she could be the one,” Chip replied softly.

Lee nodded in agreement, he had seen it coming ever since that night at the Institute donor appreciation dinner. Monica's father was a generous donor to NIMR's vision and Chip had been assigned to host their table that evening. He was uncharacteristically nervous that night and though others would be hard press to notice, Lee had. By the end of the evening, Chip had made his move and asked Monica for a date. It had been growing from there even though they had only met several months ago.

Lee put all his joking aside, “I think you may be right, Chip.”

Lee was happy for Chip, though he was at present enjoying his bachelorhood. Ever since last year's fiasco with Carol Denning* he had decided to just enjoy the women in his life without any expectation of marriage. At present, that was working out just fine as his schedule at sea left little time for real relationship building. Chip, on the other hand, was showing the telltale signs of being in love including the loss of appetite.

Lee sighed and shook his head at Chip's mostly uneaten plate, definitely and seriously NOT Chip Morton.

“So, you gonna ask her before you lose another five pounds?”

Chip's eyebrows tightened as he looked across the table watching Lee shove a victorious fork full of salad into his mouth.

“How'd you know I lost weight?” Chip had noticed that he had to cinch his belt a little tighter than usual as he dressed.

Lee just laughed, he didn't think he wanted to relay the conversation he heard between Harry's right-hand-Executive Assistant Angie and Trish, the Communication's Operator. Something about his pants fitting looser lately and how disappointing it was.

“I'm your Captain, I'm supposed to know these things,” Lee quipped.

Chip just shook his head and chuckled and began eating in earnest.

Their meal had been a good one and they were enjoying a cup of coffee before heading back to Seaview. They had ferried in aboard a zodiac rubber boat, along with other crew on shore leave rotation. Their quiet meal was interrupted, however, when several official looking men in business suits walked in with a military presence following. They honed in on Lee and Chip approaching their table.

“Captain Lee Crane?” The older of the two men in suits asked.

Lee nodded and smiled pleasantly even though he was concerned about the look of this party before him. It had all the makings of a lynch mob.

“Yes, I'm Captain Crane,” he answered evenly as he stood to greet the men.

“Captain Crane, we know that you are a spy and have been engaging in espionage activities in our country. You are hereby under arrest and will come with us now.”

“I don't know what you're talking about,” Lee defended. “I'm here with my submarine positioned clearly in the breakwaters and the only thing I've engaged in is lunch.”

“You will come with us now, Captain Crane, restrained or unrestrained... the choice is up to you.”

Chip had by now taken up a position next to Lee and started to say something when Lee stopped him.

“Mr. Morton, I'll go with these gentlemen and get this straightened out. Report back to the boat.”

Chip heard all the unspoken orders: Report to the Admiral, Cancel all shore leave, and secure Seaview.

“Aye Sir,” Chip replied with concern as he watched Lee follow the men in suits out with the party of soldiers taking up the rear guard.

As soon as the cars left the curb Chip slapped an ample amount of cash down on the table and proceeded to run back to the dock at full speed.

* * * * *

As soon as the car pulled away from the curb he was ordered to lean forward as cuffs were indeed applied. Lee watched as the car took several turns away from the downtown area where the island government buildings were situated. They continued driving and Lee realized that he was being taken away from the city and toward the vast interior of the island. Nobody spoke to him even when he asked where they were going and when he could contact the American Consulate. This was bad... very bad.

Several hours later, they arrived at their destination as Lee took an inward silent sigh taking in the compound before him. Somehow it didn't look like a government building. It reeked of money and power and something told him he wasn't going to be “straightening” anything out soon.

Lee was ushered forward by an army officer that someone called Major Raatu and instead of being taken to a room for questioning, was taken directly to a cell. His khaki dress jacket was confiscated, as well as his wallet and the contents of his pockets. They had relieved him of his tie leaving him with nothing useful and as he had NOT been on a mission for ONI he didn't even have his lock pick kit hidden away.

The men turned to leave as Lee called out to them.

“Wait! I want to talk to someone in charge.” But his demands were ignored as Major Raatu smiled deviously and closed the door shut, the clanking of the lock accentuating his imprisonment.

Lee walked around his ten by ten foot cell. There was nothing of use, a cot made of wood with no mattress, pillow or blanket and crude bathroom facilities in the corner with no sink. The door was made of heavy, solid wooden beams and offered no hope. The hinges were, of course, on the outside with only a ring on the inside for opening when it was unlocked. There wasn't even a window, just a light that hung from the ceiling with a bare bulb illuminating his poorly lit cell. Having explored his cell in less than five minutes Lee returned to his cot and laid down trying to figure out what had just happened to him.

* * * * *

Chip poured on the steam running as fast as he could back to the zodiac, he saw a few crewmen just disembarking and getting ready for their shore leave.

“Sorry men, shore leave is canceled,” he said without explanation as he motioned for the communication's device from the seaman operating the zodiac. The crew listened with concern as they heard the Exec hail Seaview.

“Morton to Seaview, come in Seaview.”

“Seaview here, go ahead Mr. Morton.”

“Sparks, inform the Admiral that Captain Crane has been arrested for espionage and cancel all shore parties, have Chief Sharkey prepare a list of crewmen still on leave and their ETAs back to the boat.”

“Aye Sir.”

Sparks relayed the message to a shocked Admiral Nelson as Chip and the crewmen loaded up and ferried back to the boat.

* * * * *

Kowalski and Patterson were riding in style in a cab.

“You said you only had a few things to pick up Pat,” Ski whined as the backseat was crowded with an oversized teddy bear and an assortment of other gifts. There was no way Ski was gonna be caught carrying a pink teddy bear with an oversized polka dot bow tie around its neck back to the boat, so he had splurged on the cab fare.

“You know Ski, a baby only turns “one” once, and I want her to know she's special,” Pat explained.

“Yeah I know, but did you have to pick out the biggest toys you could find?”

Patterson's eyebrows creased and his face went deadly serious as Ski looked on confused.

“Hey Pat, I didn't mean it. I mean if you want load your kid up with all this...” then Ski followed Patterson's eyes toward the source of his furled eyebrows as they watched Captain Crane being escorted by soldiers and being held at the elbow. He was placed in a car with a convoy of cars following behind. The light changed and the driver started to move forward when Patterson leaned forward pulling out a twenty dollar bill from his pocket.

“Hey man, another twenty to follow those cars without them knowing it.”

The driver agreed as Pat looked over at Ski.

“Something's not right Ski.” But before Ski could agree they saw Mr. Morton leave the restaurant taking off in a dead run in his service dress khakis.

“Yeah,” Kowalski agreed. “Something's definitely not right.”

They followed the convoy at a distance until the driver stopped and turned back to address his passengers.

“This is as far as I go. There's nothing up the road but a private mansion.”

Kowalski and Patterson tried coaxing, bribing, and everything else they could think of but the driver was more than not interested, he was afraid.

“Okay, just take us back to town,” Ski conceded.

The driver nodded in relief and made a u-turn, heading back into town to the dock where they were met by Chief Sharkey as they hurriedly placed Patterson's birthday gifts in the zodiac and raced back to the sub with their news about the Skipper.

* * * * *

“What do you mean I'm not to go ashore?” Harry bellowed at the video monitor framing Gerald Johnson's face.

“Just what I said Harriman,” Johnson sighed. “Harriman, we're not getting any cooperation from the island officials. They've admit to arresting Crane but refuse to let us speak with him, we simply can't take a chance of losing a four star admiral if they decide to arrest you as well.”

Harry shook his head in disgust, “And just what are you doing about getting my Captain out of there Gerald?”

“It's going through the diplomatic channels now, Harriman. Crane wasn't engaged in any ONI operations on this island and even if he were we wouldn't admit it. We can't expose him as an Operative without endangering his cover on half a dozen other missions. We're just going to have to let the diplomats handle this.”

“It's been six hours Gerald, and he hasn't been allowed to contact anyone. Something doesn't smell right.”

“Agreed, but for now you and your crew will stay aboard Seaview and not aggravate the already strained relations with this nation.”

“Alright, Gerald. We'll stay put,” Harry conceded unwillingly. “But I want to know what's going on, and what you're doing to get my Captain back.”

Johnson didn't answer, just nodded and signed off from his end leaving Harry staring at a black screen.

“I don't understand, Sir,” Chip said slightly confused. “I had no idea US relations were strained with this nation.”

“Neither did I or I never would have brought Seaview in, much less put our crew out on shore leave,” Harry answered as he ran a tired hand across the back of his neck, a sure sign of his weariness as well as his frustration.

“Chip, have Sparks monitor any open channels, maybe we'll get lucky, and I want to see the satellite photo Sparks is working on as soon as he gets it.” Chip nodded as Harry turned toward the spiral staircase. “I'll be in my cabin. I want to be notified of all possible leads.”

“Aye Sir,” Chip replied. The only lead they had was Ski and Pat's information when they tailed the convoy. Hopefully the sat pictures would show just where they took Lee. There wasn't much else to do but wait, surely they would allow Lee to contact them soon.

That was three days ago, and not only had they heard no word from Lee, the island government stopped talking with the US diplomats. Everyone including Admiral Johnson believed something else was going on, but just “what” was a mystery. Whatever it was couldn't be good. Johnson informed Harry that the US Ambassador was in danger of being expelled and so the demands for Captain Crane's release had ceased. The island simply had too many American tourists and visitors here to leave the country without an American presence and an Embassy. Harry was officially ordered to make no attempt to go ashore, furthermore a rescue operation was explicitly not authorized.

“That's it Harriman. I've done everything I can until diplomatic relations improve. My hands are tied, and so are yours. You are hereby ordered to leave the island's territorial waters.” Johnson's eyes were cold but he did something he never did before. He shifted his eyes to Chip and locked them for just a second, and then signed off.

“Johnson out.”

The screen went black and Harry just seemed to stare at it for a moment and then turned to Chip.

“Mr. Morton, I understand it's Lt. Bishop's watch. Turn over the Con and take care of your other responsibilities. Have Chief Sharkey help you if necessary.”

Chip looked Harry in the eyes and caught every double meaning to his order.

“Aye Sir.”

* * * * *

Lee was escorted down a long hall that took several turns, obviously well away from the cell he occupied. He felt a little weak from lack of food, but his need for water was growing at an alarming rate. He was led to a large dining room where Major Raatu sat at the head of a long dining table capable of sitting twenty people. Lee was positioned to stand behind a dining chair several seats down from Raatu.

“You are a military man, stand at attention,” Raatu ordered. His order was followed with a nudge from a gun nuzzle in Lee's back. Lee sharpened to attention and played his game. Raatu smiled at the lack of fire in the American to have obeyed so quickly. He was sure his confession would be extracted soon.

Lee was still staring straight ahead ram rod straight when several servants entered the room with place settings. A place setting was placed in front of Raatu and one in front of Lee. Then another servant entered and began dishing dinner onto Raatu's plate. Raatu ignored Lee for a moment as he salted his steak and drank from his goblet of wine, but Lee wasn't served dinner.

“At ease,” Raatu said with little emotion.

Lee responded in body posture but kept his eyes staring out toward a spot in the wall he had picked out.

“I am a generous man Captain Crane. I have provided a grand meal for you. Sit,” he ordered.

Lee responded slowly till the nuzzle in his back urged him to comply. He sat down with his hands in his lap.

Raatu talked as he ate, with little social graces to match the opulent room. “I have a Confession for you to sign stating that you are a spy.”

“I don't know what you're talking about,” Lee replied, looking toward Raatu.

“You are a spy, here to conduct espionage in our country,” Raatu's voice rose in decimals.

“I'm a commander of a private submarine whose mission is oceanic exploration,” Lee countered as Raatu sat back reaching for his water glass.

“I'm well aware of that Captain. It matters not what you really are, all I needed was a high profile officer. Anyone would have done. I actually preferred your Admiral Nelson but he never left your submarine.”

So, they didn't know he was an occasional field operative. He was glad that Harry was too engrossed in his latest specimens and had decided to forego shore leave until he was finished.

“Then what do you have to gain if you know I'm not a spy,” Lee asked as Raatu continued to eat.

“A place on the UN Security Council. You see, once your confession is released our Ambassador will seek out a formal Censure against the United States. We have several key votes lined up and America's disgrace should help the remaining votes to allow my country a seat on the council.”

“You've got one small problem. I'm not about to sign any confession,” Lee answered matter of factly.

Raatu leaned back in his chair dabbing the corners of his mouth with his cloth napkin. “You must be hungry Captain Crane. I understand it's been three days since your last meal, an oversight which can be easily rectified.”

As Raatu finished his remark a rather official looking document was placed on Lee's empty dinner plate in front of him. A glass of water was poured into a goblet and placed just beyond Lee's reach. Lee looked down at the paper and began to peruse the document. A confession, all typed out and ready to sign admitting to illegal espionage activities on the island with details to include said activities.

Lee raised his eyes and kept his face even. The food was easily ignored but the glass of water sat before him was inviting. His duty, however, was never in question, as he pushed the plate and the confession away from him.

“You'll get no confession from me, Major,” Lee delivered with determination in his eyes.

“We shall see, Captain.” With that Raatu raised his goblet of water and downed it as water drips ran down the sides of his mouth in his haste. He dabbed the moisture away as he spoke.

“Take the Captain back to his cell.”

A guard placed a hand on his arm as Lee rose from the table. He fought the urge to place an elbow in the guard's gut and try and make a run for it. There were too many guards in the room, he'd have to look for the best chance for an escape and not squander it in a desperate move.

“We will meet again tomorrow morning, Captain. I trust by then you'll be more agreeable.”

Lee didn't bother to reply as he studied his surroundings. His cell was escape proof, so tomorrow morning might be his best chance at an escape. Every day he'd get weaker, it had to be tomorrow.

* * * * *

Chip traveled through the jungle all night, completely by-passing the town. He had studied the satellite pictures of the compound at the end of the road Ski and Pat had followed and was making good time closing in using his GPS, but it was definitely a long hike. He stopped for a breather and pulled a flask of water from his backpack for a drink. He didn't have much time for preparations before leaving Seaview, so Sharkey had packed his gear for him, complete with bandages and gauze. He knew what Sharkey was thinking when he packed those. He sincerely hoped that his first aid skills wouldn't be needed, but with Lee you never could tell. The bad guys always seemed to hone in on him like he wore a sign saying, “Beat me up, I can take it.”

Chip took a few more minutes to rest and then checked his watch, 0200 hours. He had been traveling for four hours; he figured he still had a good four hour hike ahead of him, and picked up his backpack to start again. He had a transmitter with him, but he would only contact Seaview when he had Lee and was ready to liberate him from the island. Until then, it was radio silence.

As he traveled Chip reasoned through the coming day. By the time he reached the compound and did his recon work the morning light would be upon him. He'd have to case the compound and then find a safe place to tuck away until night fall, then he'd begin his search for Lee.

* * * * *

Lee was returned to his cell but hadn't been given his ration of water that evening. The heat of the day had given way to an only slightly cooler evening. Still the humidity in the cell lessened with the evening air and gave him a reprieve from sweating. Unfortunately, he was already showing signs of serious dehydration with a headache and cramping muscles. He lay on his cot trying to conserve his strength and thought through his plan for tomorrow morning. He planned on keeping his appointment with Raatu and then jumping his guards at the windows he spotted near the dining room. Hopefully, it would buy him time to make his way to the jungle before anyone missed his guards.

Lee closed his eyes, if only he had a blanket, he thought suddenly feeling cold.

* * * * *

Chip reached the compound not too far off his estimated time. It wasn't a fortress, but the security was still tight, he'd have to be careful. He took the time to encircle the entire compound finding an entry point at the back of the main house. He spotted a wing that looked different in character than the rest of the compound and decided to check it out. It looked like newer construction and had very few windows, this is where he'd begin his search come nightfall. Once he completed his recon he settled into a place where he could watch the comings and goings from the compound, but still in view of the wing he wanted to search first. It had been four days now, and it was just a shot in the dark that Lee was still here.

The morning light gave way, as Chip stayed put and rested after his long night's hike.

* * * * *

Seaview sat topside over a hundred miles from the island's territorial waters as Harry conducted “important” samplings of the sea water and verifiably hours away from the island. He stood at the chart table where Chip Morton was noticeably absent.

“Admiral, you have a video call from Admiral Johnson.”

Harry picked up the tethered mic, “Put it through to the nose, Sparks.”

Sparks' “Aye Sir,” was heard as Harry moved forward and activated the screen.

“Harriman, where are you?” Johnson asked without any greeting.

“Conducting important sea water samplings about one hundred and twenty miles due south of our last position,” Harry replied dryly.

Johnson nodded, understanding that the “important sea water samples” were completely bogus but the private submarine had every right to conduct its scientific exploration in those waters and that was fine with him.

“I see. I imagine your first officer is busy with the added burdens of the Captain's duties,” Johnson asked as if he really cared what Chip was doing.

“Yes he is. Chief Sharkey?” Harriman called to Sharkey motioning him to join him in the nose.

“I noticed Mr. Morton isn't in the Control Room.”

“No Sir. He is at present conducting Safety Drills with a crewman and is unavailable at the moment,” Sharkey replied.

Harriman nodded, and Sharkey left the nose as Admiral Johnson held back the corners of his mouth from rising upwards.

“Good Harriman, I just needed to report the current whereabouts of Seaview for the Situation Meeting this morning,” Johnson replied, joining in the current game of cleverly delivered half-truths.

“Fine Gerald. You can report that I'm being a good little Admiral and that my boat is engaged in scientific research at present.”

Johnson nodded knowingly, “Good to hear, Johnson out.”

Harry deactivated the screen and turned to the windows looking out at the dull underwater ecosystem of this particular part of the ocean floor. Lee had been missing for four days now and the “not knowing” was the worse. At least in Venice he was in on the rescue operation. Now, all he could do was wait.

* * * * *

Lee was escorted to the dining room once again and was immediately positioned into a chair at the dining table. He was weak and was feeling pretty rotten at present as his “host” sauntered in and took his place at the head of the table.

“Good morning, Captain Crane. I trust you slept well?”

Lee didn't respond, but he could tell that Major Raatu was pleased with his captive's overall condition.

The servants entered the room and set place settings in front of Raatu and then Lee. Raatu's plate was loaded up with a variety of breakfast foods while the Confession was placed in Lee's plate. A goblet of water was placed just out of reach again, as Lee sat with his hands in his lap.

“You will be interested to know that your government has stopped negotiations for your release and your submarine has left our waters,” Raatu said nonchalantly as he buttered his bread.

“I think you have been forgotten. How quickly one finds himself of no value to those around him, wouldn't you say?” The Major smiled as he took large bites of his meal.

“I won't sign,” Lee answered without emotion, but with a dry raspy throat.

“hmmm...” Raatu replied as he took another forkful, “Then you won't need your place at the table. You will stand at attention until the morning meal is finished.”

Lee glared at Raatu even as hands raised him from his chair and positioned him to stand behind his place setting. Lee stood straight, but he was exhausted and weak. He understood what Raatu was doing, trying to weaken the last bit of defiance out of his weary and now sick body, but Lee kept his eyes forward staring at that spot in the wall he found last night. Major Raatu took his time with his meal as Lee began to feel the effects of standing through the long meal. Finally, the Major finished and motioned for the guards to take Lee back.

“Your presence is requested at lunch, Captain Crane.”

Lee allowed his guards to guide him out appearing weaker than he really was. The first set of windows in the hall were too close to the dining room, he planned on making his move at the second set of windows he had seen. He had two guards to dispose of, normally not a problem; their guns weren't even drawn, but he knew he'd have to pull strength out of his reserves. He needed to deliver solid blows so that the escape didn't attract any more guards' attention and because he didn't think he had the strength for much more. As they neared the second set of windows Lee stopped suddenly and landed a solid blow with his elbow into one guard's gut and another elbow into the second guard's chin. The second guard slid down the wall as Lee turned his attention to the first guard who was obviously surprised by the attack. Lee delivered a swift uppercut and then a blow to the back of the neck as the first guard sagged to the floor.

Lee bent over with his hands on his knees breathing hard, but he didn't have time to fully recover. He moved swiftly to the window and opened it, grateful he didn't have to worry about a screen. He climbed out and ran for the jungle cover, he figured he had five maybe ten minutes tops before his guards were discovered or woke up so he had to use his time as best as he could.

* * * * *

Chip was settled in until nightfall and was resting from his long hike but continued to scan the compound. He thought he saw movement and nearly jumped to his feet as he saw a dark headed man climbing out of a window and wearing khakis. Chip was a little too far away to see Lee's face, but he knew without a doubt who was running for the jungle cover. He grabbed his backpack and took an intercept course to meet Lee in the jungle.

* * * * *

Lee's head was pounding as he ran for the jungle cover, but there wasn't any choice, he had to push it and look for water later. He was running for the jungle experiencing an almost tunnel affect in his vision as he cleared the compound to the cover of the dense foliage. He was running on pure adrenalin, whatever reserves he had pulled from had emptied, but he pushed on knowing that if he stopped he might not get going again. As he ran he barely heard his name, still he ran forward dazed and confused, seeking only to gain as much distance as he could. He was operating on automatic at this point, his need for water clouding his perception and good sense when suddenly, he was blindsided and tackled.

* * * * *

Chip moved quickly but carefully, making sure not to draw attention to his position and ultimately to Lee as he closed the distance. Lee had made it out of the clearing and so far the compound was still quiet. Chip adjusted his angle to intercept Lee barely making out his form as the jungle got denser. When he was close enough he called out in a subdued voice.

“Lee... Lee!” But Lee made no effort to stop. He looked done in and something didn't look right, Lee was in a desperate run but his legs were faltering. Chip made his decision when he called again to no avail and took a flying leap to bring his best friend and Captain down.

“Lee, hold still! Lee it's me, Chip. Look at me, Lee.”

Chip watched as Lee's eyes finally sharpened realizing who had tackled him.

“Chip?” he said in a hoarse raspy voice.

“Come on, let's move a little deeper and then I'll check you over,” Chip reasoned.

“We've got to keep going.”

“We will, Lee. First things first.”

Their eyes met and Lee nodded allowing Chip to guide him forward. It was a big jungle, and though the Compound was expansive, Chip had not seen more than a dozen men at any one time. He was sure they could find a safe place to rest, and then he'd find out why Lee looked like death warmed over.

They traveled for about a half hour when Chip found a good size tree and settled Lee down against it. Lee leaned his head back against the tree and squinted, his headache now pounding with his heartbeat.

Chip reached for his backpack and pulled out a flask of water. Lee took the flask with shaky hands and began drinking.

“Whoa, slow down Lee, you'll get yourself sick.”

“Sorry Chip. I've had very little water, I think I'm dehydrated.”

“Yeah, you look it. Take smaller sips, I've got another flask in the backpack. Are you hurt?” He asked looking Lee over to see if he needed the bandages Sharkey packed. Lee took another sip of water and then answered.

“No, just hungry.”

Chip's eyebrows creased in concern, “When was the last time you ate something?”

“The restaurant,” Lee answered matter of factly as his head rested against the tree with his eyes closed.

Chip's eyes went wide in understanding, “The restaurant? As in four days ago?”

Lee answered with a nod and took another drink, it tasted heavenly as Chip began rummaging through his pack pulling out a protein bar and dehydrated banana chips. He unwrapped the protein bar and placed it in Lee's hand.

“Here.”

Lee looked into Chip's eyes and smiled weakly. “So how'd you find me?” He asked, taking a bite as Chip talked.

“Ski and Pat saw you being taken away and followed the convoy. We were under orders to let the diplomats secure your release until...”

“Until the diplomatic channels ran out,” Lee finished as he took another bite.

“Yeah. Seaview was ordered out of the territorial waters and the entire crew was forbidden to set foot on the island, including the Admiral.”

Lee smiled, “So what are you doing here?” Lee was starting to feel better, and very soon they'd have to get moving but for now he needed this time to rebuild his strength.

“I'm officially AWOL, and unofficially your extraction team. What did they want, Lee?” Chip asked in concern. Lee was looking only slightly better; it would take more than a flask of water to rehydrate him, he needed an IV that he was sure of.

“A signed confession, probably a video tape as well since they never got physical with me. They don't know I work for ONI, they were just looking for a high profile officer to nab. We're fortunate the Admiral stayed in the lab, they would have preferred to have grabbed him.”

“I don't understand, why did they want a confession?” Chip asked handing the banana chips to Lee as he spoke. “Here eat these, they'll give you the sugar lift you need, Sharkey's idea,” he clarified.

Lee took a handful, giving the bag back to Chip as he started to rise. “I'll tell you all the sorted details later. I think we better put some distance between us and the compound.”

“Alright. One more thing,” Chip said as he pulled out his transmitter and sent a short coded electronic message, then looked back at Lee. “A code to let Sharkey know to keep the lights on for us. We can't risk any help from Seaview. We'll have to make it to the shore by ourselves.”

Lee nodded, “Okay. I'm ready.”

Chip nodded in agreement and watched as Lee stood on his own steam. “And Chip,” Lee took a deep breath. “Thanks for coming. I was done in by the time you caught up with me.” They took just a moment to exchange their appreciation for one another in their eyes and then moved deeper into the jungle.

* * * * *

Chief Sharkey was standing at the Position Chart and caught Sparks' very small nod of his head to get his attention. Sharkey made his way over as Sparks relayed the message quietly.

“Mr. Morton's got him. They're headed for the coast.”

Sharkey nodded and let a smile escape and then schooled it back.

“Thanks Sparks. I'll inform the Admiral.”

Sharkey made his way to the nose where the Admiral sat with reports spread across the conference table.

“Ah Sir?” Sharkey said, interrupting Harry's work.

“Mr. Morton wishes to inform you that the Safety Drill is going as planned and will continue until the crewman is ready for his evaluation.”

Harry's tight lipped smile was pulled back, but the relief in his eyes was completely evident to Sharkey.

“Thank you, Chief. I'll look forward to Mr. Morton's next report. Make sure he has everything he needs to bring the crewman up to Seaview Safety Standards.”

“Aye Sir.” Sharkey said, nodding his head as if he were really about to deliver the message to the Exec, and walked away knowing exactly what needed to be done.

Harry stood up and walked to Seaview's windows staring out, but not seeing anything as he thought. Plausible Deniability.** He had been given orders that he had to follow, but technically, he didn't know anything about a rescue mission on the island. A smile appeared, but this time Harry didn't pull it back as he looked out the window awaiting the Exec's next Safety Training report.

* * * * *

“I'm not going to take your water, Chip, so let's just drop it,” Lee stated rather emphatically as Chip tried to give him the second flask of water from his backpack.

“Lee, you're seriously dehydrated...”

“Yeah, and where is it going to get us if you dehydrate too?” Lee replied in a voice that accentuated his current weakness.

“Alright, we'll share it, 'cause if you think I'm drinking when you're not – you're crazy!” Chip pushed back, uncharacteristic for the subordinate officer he was, but within their relationship of best friends.

Lee sighed and reached for the flask taking a small drink and then handing it over to Chip who did likewise.

“You want to try and eat another protein bar?”

“No, my stomach hurts,” Lee answered honestly, his guard completely down with his longtime friend.

“I haven't heard any commotion, they must have set out in a different direction,” Chip observed taking a small drink and then offering the flask back to Lee.

“Yeah, they expect us to head to town. You picked a good extraction point. We'll have to be careful though, Major Raatu could bring in reinforcements.”

Chip nodded in agreement. They had been traveling a slower pace than Chip's trek, but Lee was still managing to travel under his own steam, though it was evident he was feeling miserable. Chip reached up placing a hand on Lee's forehead.

“So what's the verdict, Mother?” Lee asked with a hoarse chuckle.

“You're a little warm, but not too bad,” Chip answered and then sat back to stop fussing over Lee.

“By the way,” Chip added with a small flare of humor, “You know what I'm doing right now?”

Lee raised an eyebrow in question.

“I'm conducting Safety Drills with a crewman who always seems to be on the application side of a band-aid,” he finished with a smirk.

“Hey, wasn't my fault. All I wanted was some lunch in town,” Lee answered tiredly. “Safety Drills...” Lee repeated. He knew the deal...Plausible Deniability. This was Chip's way of protecting Admiral Nelson and Seaview, something Lee appreciated just now.

“Thanks Chip, for everything.”

Chip just nodded, taking in Lee's condition. He seemed to take everything in stride. Kidnapped, held prisoner and starved for four days, dehydrated to a dangerous point, and here he was ready to continue the grueling hike.

“Let's keep moving, Chip. The sooner we get there, the sooner I see my bunk.”

“You mean, the sooner you see Jamie?” Chip answered standing up first and then offering a hand up to Lee.

“Yeah, but all I need is an IV for a couple of hours and then I'll be good to go to my cabin,” Lee answered with all the confidence of a person who had plenty of medical experience, albeit his own.

“Don't count on it, Lee.”

Lee seemed to ignore Chip's statement as the two continued their hike toward the coastline.

* * * * *

The long hike had been grueling and difficult as the two officers reached the beach from which Chip had entered the day before. Their water was gone and Lee had barely made it on his own steam, though he had taken the last few miles leaning against Chip. Chip found a clump of bushes and reached in for his air tank and dive gear pulling it towards Lee who was leaning against a tree in obvious discomfort. Chip pulled his transmitter out and sent another electronic coded message using flashes of lights in a prearranged sequence and then squatted down next to Lee.

“Okay, it will be about an hour. Will you try to eat a little more?”

Lee nodded his head in the negative, “No, my mouth is too dry to try and eat.” His words confirmed by the hoarseness of his voice.

Chip nodded his understanding, “Almost there Buddy, just hang on.”

“I'm good Chip. I'll be okay,” he answered confidently.

Chip suited up, not wanting to waste any time when their ride arrived. They were almost home.

* * * * *

Chief Sharkey was pulling a double shift on the Control Room floor. Not that it was necessary, but he needed to be close to the radio shack. He had waited all day, had dinner and now waited late into the evening. Still he had hope that Mr. Morton would bring the Skipper in, just as planned. Apparently, the Admiral was feeling the same thing because he had uncharacteristically positioned himself at the conference table on the front porch all day as well.

Sharkey caught a glimpse of activity at the radio shack as Sparks motioned him over.

“They're at the rendezvous point and ready for pickup,” Sparks relayed in hushed whispers.

Sharkey nodded his acknowledgment and headed for the nose, stopping by the sonar station first and tapping Kowalski on the shoulder as he went by.

“Ah...Admiral Sir?”

Harry looked up from his reports as the corner of his mouth twitched into a barely noticeable smile.

“Yes, Chief.”

“It seems Kowalski's flight review is due in the flying sub; as Mr. Morton is still engaged with his Safety Drill, he's asked me to conduct the review.”

“I see Chief. Well, if the Exec has scheduled a flight review, then by all means,” Harry said sweeping his hand toward the flying sub's hatch in the nose.

Sharkey nodded and Kowalski followed as they donned their leather flight jackets and proceeded to descend down the hatch.

Harry picked up his coffee cup and walked to the herculite windows to watch the launch. They were close, very close.

* * * * *

As soon as FS1 cleared the bay doors Sharkey ordered Ski to suit up as Sharkey guided the craft to take flight. They would close the hundred and twenty mile distance mostly by air to make the best time, then they would submerge and enter the coast stealthily underwater.

“Are you almost ready, Ski?” The Chief asked over his shoulder.

“Yeah, all set. I thought Mr. Morton was going to buddy dive with the Skipper?” It wasn't in the original plans for Ski to meet the XO on the beach, not that he minded.

“Yeah well, I've just got a feeling about this, Ski,” Sharkey said, as he flew with both hands on the control sticks. “I'm making an executive decision, Mr. Morton can't get in trouble because he didn't order me to do it. Are you okay with it?”

“You know I am, Chief,” Ski answered sincerely.

“Good, we're in position. Take care Ski.”

Kowalski nodded and opened the bottom hatch. He proceeded to slide on his fins as Sharkey helped clear his tanks and then lowered himself into the water. Then Ski reached up for a second tank that Sharkey lowered to him and descended into the depths to make for the island.

* * * * *

Lee was laying on the ground, his muscles cramping and his head pounding. He had unfortunately, experienced severe dehydration in the past and recognized the symptoms, but he was almost there. Once Jamie worked his medical know-how on him he'd be good. Then he was going to sleep for a week, after eating a thick juicy steak from Cookie's galley. His hunger had begun to really make itself known as he was working on pretty close to five days without a meal. He had begun fantasizing over Cookie's galley creations, wondering just what he'd eat first. Reality set in when he realized that Jamie would probably break his forced fast slowly with soup and toast, but he was going to enjoy that steak before he sacked out.

“Lee,” Chip whispered, “They're here.” Chip helped Lee to sit up as he watched Ski rise from the water and run forward. It wasn't part of the plan for Ski to show up, the plan was a radio signal that Chip and Lee would swim toward making a buddy dive. But as Chip looked Lee over, he was glad someone had taken the initiative. Lee was done in, it would take both he and Ski to help him swim back.

“Ski,” Chip called in a loud whisper as Ski corrected his course and moved toward the Exec and the Skipper. Ski took one appraising look at the Captain and knew they needed to move fast.

“Here, Sir,” Ski said fitting the tank on Lee's back.

Lee was weak, and made no complaint as Ski fitted the tank and adjusted his face mask into position. Then Chip and Ski took up positions on both sides of Lee as they made their way from the water's edge deeper into the ocean. When the waves reached their knees they all three dove and began their swim fighting the waves trying to push them closer to shore. Lee tried to help, but his normally strong kicks were ineffectual and finally had to give up. The more he exerted himself the worse he felt.

It was about a fifteen minute swim that felt more like an hour as Chip held Lee by the arm while Ski cracked the hatch. Sharkey cracked the interior hatch as Ski climbed in first and then turned around to help pull Lee into the flying sub.

Chip followed while Ski wrapped a blanket around Lee.

“Chief, get us out of here,” Chip ordered as he made his way to the supply cabinet and retrieved a bottle of water.

Lee was huddled up against FS1's bulkhead shivering despite his blanket as Chip handed him the water.

“Here Lee, take it slowly.”

Lee nodded as Chip began to strip off his diving gear down to his neoprene bike shorts and then hastily donned his black ensemble, then positioned himself into the co-pilot's chair, leaving Ski to care for Lee. He scanned over their position and made a decision.

“Let's go airborne, Chief.”

“Are you sure, Sir. We might be spotted?”

“I know and I really don't care. We're just going to get the Skipper to Sickbay. I'll worry about the fall-out later.”

“Aye Sir.”

Chip reached for the throat mic and adjusted it as he hailed Seaview.

“Seaview here,” Sparks answered, he too had pulled a double shift to man his station, playing out his part in this “unofficial” rescue.

“Sparks, inform Jamie that he has a severely dehydrated patient. No other injuries that I know of, and have Cookie flare up his grill. I think the Captain's been dreaming about a steak dinner.”

“Aye Sir,” Sparks replied with relief in his voice.

“Inform the Admiral that our ETA is fifteen minutes,” Chip finished as he finally allowed a satisfied smile to reach his face.

* * * * *

“Okay, Skipper. Let's get you to Sickbay and get an IV going.” Jamie stopped and shook his head, as if he already knew the answer to his next question. “I don't suppose you'd take a ride to Sickbay?”

“I made it this far on my own Jamie, I think I can make it to Sickbay,” Lee answered.

Jamie let out a resigned sigh, “Alright, let's get you up. Kowalski you take his other side and we'll escort the Captain here to a nice little bunk in Sickbay.”

Lee still had the blanket wrapped securely around him holding it closed at the neck as he ascended the ladder. He was helped out by Chief Sharkey who had already disembarked along with Chip to give Jamie more room to work. Another hand reached for Lee's other arm as Lee looked into the relieved eyes of Admiral Nelson. They passed an inaudible greeting to one another as Lee cleared the hatch, then Jamie climbed up, followed by Ski.

“Welcome back, Lee,” Harry said, having taken the time to reign in his emotions at seeing Lee; dripping wet and looking very ill at this point.

“Thank you, Sir. It's good to be back,” Lee said with a small smile that Harry returned slightly before Jamie took control.

“Alright Captain, I've got a needle with your name on it waiting back in Sickbay.”

Lee rolled his eyes, but was secretly coveting the bunk, a change of clothes and that steak dinner to go with his IV cocktail.

“Mr. O'Brien, lay in the new course I gave you and let's clear these waters, and have Sparks contact Admiral Johnson,” Harry ordered, moving to the video monitor. “Mr. Morton, you're with me.”

He turned to Chief Sharkey and nodded his appreciation for his part in Lee's rescue placing a hand on his shoulder as he walked by, and then proceeded to make a short report of Lee's return, without details. Johnson didn't press it, with the promise of a report as soon as Lee was able. It was short and sweet, with both Admirals barely holding back their pleased countenances. Then Harry and Chip made their way to Sickbay.

* * * * *

Chip filled Harry in along the way on the rescue as Harry nodded his head. Harry was pretty impressed by Chip's venture. His all night hike, surveillance and having pegged the right place to be to even spot Lee was testament of his abilities to think on his feet in the field; not that it was a surprise. Harry had known Chip ever since the young officer's Academy days. He had been well impressed with him then, along with his roommate. But this time, well the stakes were so much higher. Not only because Lee was Seaview's Captain, but because their relationship had taken a turn from good friends, to “like” brothers, to now... well, Harry wasn't sure he could actually qualify it into a word yet. But whenever he called Lee “Lad,” he knew it meant something more.

They entered Sickbay and found Lee lying in a bunk looking much better as Jamie warmed his stethoscope and listened to his patient's heart. They approached Lee's bunk and Jamie turned toward the sound of their footfalls with a smile on his face.

“Jamie?” Harry's one word question was answered efficiently by Seaview's Chief Medical Officer.

“I've just completed a Rapid Administration of fluid solution and he's responding well. Now I'm administering a slow drip. He'll be here for the next two hours, but if all goes as I think it will, I'll release him to his cabin for the evening. He'll rest better there, and I'll set up a schedule for Frank and me to check his vitals tonight.” Jamie was clearly pleased with Lee's progress. “You did the right thing, Chip, getting as much fluids in him as you could.”

Lee shot over a victorious “Told ya' so” smile to Chip as he had pegged his “incarceration” in Sickbay out perfectly.

“He's already urinated once....”

“Jamie!” Lee said sharply, interrupting the Doctor's treatise of his bodily functions.

“This is medical, Skipper. Nothing to be embarrassed about,” Jamie scolded, but then turned toward Harry and winked before continuing.

“The next thing we need to address is his energy level, obviously from lack of food. I've got a solution of nutrients working through his IV right now, but as long as I see he can eat and keep it down he'll be okay to release to his cabin. No further injuries that I could find,” Jamie said, finishing his medical report.

About that time the door to Sickbay opened as Cookie entered carrying a tray. Lee's face lit in anticipation and sat up as Jamie adjusted his pillows to eat.

“Just the way you like it, Sir,” Cookie announced proudly as he placed the tray down on Lee's lap.

“Thanks Cookie,” he reached for his knife and fork and cut a piece of steak, taking a bite and closing his eyes as he savored the taste. He opened his eyes and addressed Seaview's most important seaman, the cook. “Just perfect, Cookie. Thanks,” he finished sincerely and then continued eating taking in the baked potato, mixed vegetables, bread and the hefty piece of cherry pie on the dessert plate.

“You just let me know if you want anything else, Skipper,” Cookie said proudly and left with a little skip in his walk.

Harry just smiled and pulled a chair over waving a hand to assure Lee he didn't have to stop eating to talk to him. “Just eat, Lee. Chip here was telling me about the extraction, when you're done you can fill me in from your side.”

Lee just nodded and reached for his glass of water, savoring the taste as Chip pulled a rolling exam chair over to finish his debrief.

* * * * *

Lee had been released to his cabin as promised, and slept so soundly that he didn't even wake at Jamie's midnight vitals check. He did wake the next morning when Jamie reappeared to check him out.

“Okay Skipper, you're sprung from your cabin but I want you to stand down for the next two days. By then I should be able to release you to full duty as long as you don't overdo it, with the restriction of no diving for a week. We'll need to build your strength back up before I clear you for that.”

“Alright Jamie, that's fine with me,” Lee conceded, just happy to be set free from his bunk if he was so inclined.

* * * * *

Lee was feeling much better and was conducting his video debriefing with Admiral Johnson in the nose with Harry and Chip.

“So, your cover was never broken?” Johnson reiterated.

“No Sir. They were looking for any high profile officer and would have preferred Admiral Nelson. I'm just glad they settled for me, Sir.” Lee paused and then continued.

“I affected my escape overpowering my guards...”

“How many?” Johnson inquired, needing to get all the facts to report to the Situation Meeting.

“Two, Sir.”

“Very well, continue Commander.”

“I was pretty done in, I just made for cover. I was found and helped to the coast by a 'friendly', someone I recognized from town.”

Johnson nodded, taking notes. The formal report would be completed by Crane and forwarded later, right now he needed this Preliminary for his meeting.

“We made it to the shore and I was 'fished' out of the water by a couple of men on a 'boat,' they used the radio to contact Seaview and delivered me here.”

“I see, and the identities of the “local” and the “fishermen”...?”

“I prefer to keep my contacts confidential Sir, there could be repercussions for their helping me.”

Johnson nodded in agreement, “Very well. This office respects the confidential contacts of our Operatives in the field. I'll take this information into the Situation Meeting including your treatment at the hands of Major Raatu.” Johnson's eyes shifted from Lee to Chip. “Commander Morton, I hear you are to be congratulated on the Safety Record of Seaview.”

“Thank you, Sir,” Chip replied. “Good training always makes the difference.”

“Indeed, Commander,” Johnson refocused and addressed Harry. “Harriman, I'll see you next month at the budget meetings.”

“Fine Gerald,” Harry responded as Johnson signed off.

Lee sighed, not the way he liked conducting his debriefs but the details of the rescue had to be kept secure to protect two Admirals and the men who had risked their lives to come for him.

Harry eased the slight tension of the room and stood as he spoke. “Gentlemen, this calls for a little celebration. Care to join me in the Wardroom? I hear Cookie has gone all out making the Skipper's favorite lunch, including his famous brownies.”

Chip and Lee's faces lit with that thought as the three headed for Cookie's domain, where the Boat's resident chef had decided to make it his personal business to restore both the Captain's and the XO's recent weight loss.

* * * * *

Admiral Johnson signed off the video conference call with Seaview and walked over to his window overlooking the grounds below. He stood with his hands clasped behind his back as he stared out the window. His hands had been tied; he had exhausted all his means of persuasion. The only thing he had left was to give Morton free reign to go in alone. He never said a word, it was passed silently; Plausible Deniability. That was the CIA's phrase for a very old game, but it's what needed to be done. It was one thing for an Operative to agree to a Disavowalment Disclaimer and quite another for an Officer of the United State military to walk onto friendly territory and be kidnapped, imprisoned and denied the basics of food and water for four days for the purpose of being coerced into signing a bogus confession. Then to be written off in the diplomatic games of politicians and power hungry leaders, it just wasn't right.

Harry's orders were explicit, so he had passed the unspoken order over to Morton. Lee was good, and had affected his own escape, but it was Morton who had tracked him, found him and brought him home safely, despite the fact that Crane was severely compromised by dehydration and had been starved for four days. There was no doubt about it, Morton was good in the field and maybe someone to watch in the future, Johnson reasoned. Gerald sighed, walked back to his desk and neatly organized his notes to take to the Situation Meeting. Let the bureaucrats and diplomats work out the fall out of Lee's escape. The island government was already playing their own version of plausible deniability stating that Major Raatu was not authorized to act, but no one was buying it. At this point, Gerald didn't care. He'd go in and explain that Crane overpowered his guards and escaped, a “local” helped him to the coast, and two “fishermen” picked him up and delivered him to Seaview. End of story.

Gerald tapped the papers on the desk, lining up the errant edges and then stuffed them into his red top priority file ready to report to the President that Lee Crane had been rescued. The President would be relieved, he had a great deal of respect for Crane after he ferreted out General Hobson's saboteur, one of his own trusted generals, in the undersea bomb shelter. Between Lee's work at the bottom of the sea and Harry's investigative work at Weymouth College, they had not only uncovered the treasonous plot of General Hobson, but had prevented a war.***

It only took one look from the President for Gerald to receive his orders and now he could report a successful conclusion to the matter, and today... Plausible Deniability had served them well.

The End

Plausible Deniability

*See first season episode, Turn Back the Clock and my story The Rookie for the back story

**Plausible Deniability - is a term coined by the CIA in the early 1960s to describe the withholding of information from senior officials in order to protect them from repercussions in the event that illegal or unpopular activities by the CIA became public knowledge. It also refers to the giving of orders in such a way as to deny knowledge of such actions. Source: en.wikipedia.org

***See the Second Season episode, The Deadliest Game

Copyright 2014, All Rights Reserved

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