A third season story giving us another peek into the unspoken regard of Nelson and Crane; though mostly silent their feelings speak louder than words of a deep friendship so often sought and not so often obtained.

Unspoken Regard

by Lynn

I'm getting too old for this, Harry thought as his captors pulled his arms tightly behind his back. This was supposed to be a simple Marine Research Conference with the great minds of the ocean world presenting their findings and learning from one another. That is, until this bunch showed up wanting to talk “shop” about Harry's latest military project. He was led outside the hotel in Amsterdam through an alley where a car was parked. What is this? Harry mused, Three or four times that he'd been kidnapped since Seaview was commissioned? Four, he thought, But who's counting? He really wasn't being naïve about the current situation, indeed he knew that the evening didn't promise to be pleasant. But his dry humor was his method of coping, because he was sure that his captors were going to be persistent in getting what they wanted. The Flaming Star was that important to the military, and apparently his captors knew it as well.

He was taken to a warehouse, It's always a warehouse, he thought dryly, and was manhandled out of the car and taken in through a back door from the alley. He would have said something to himself about it “always being an alley”, but he thought maybe he was overplaying his hand in his game of dry and sarcastic humor. He was taken to a room with a gurney in the middle and immediately noticed the restraining straps. Okay, this is not good, no amount of humor was going to make this easier as he was forced down on the gurney and securely strapped into place.

A man in a white lab coat looking like he could be Dr. Frankenstein's assistant, Igor, walked up holding a syringe and began expelling the air bubbles out.

“Admiral Nelson, we won't waste time with any physical means of persuasion. We are quite sure that our little formula will have you singing like a jaybird,” said the man standing just behind Igor. He was dressed entirely in black from his black suit, to his black shirt, to his black tie and wore dark sunglasses in the poorly lit room. Igor rolled up Harry's sleeve and inserted the needle without saying a word as Harry closed his eyes trying to will himself to stay in control.

“How long before he's ready for the interrogation?” The man in black asked as Igor finally spoke in a pronounced accent that was probably Romanian but sounded more Transylvanian from a bad movie.

“It will take full effect within thirty minutes,” Igor replied, as Harry watched the exchanged between the two men. The man in black smiled deviously and then leaned over Harry.

“Good. We will have much to talk about Admiral Nelson. You will be happy to share all you know about Flaming Star.”

Harry tried to glare at his captor, but his glare wasn't quite working. Unlike what he expected, the drug provided no pain. Indeed, he was beginning to feel quite agreeable, almost euphoric. He blinked his eyes and willed himself back to defiance as he realized that the drug was working and tried again for the glare.

The man in black just smiled at Harry's attempts to intimidate him and so Harry gave that up and just closed his eyes trying to keep his mind sharp and in control. But the more he lay there, the more agreeable he became and he found himself floating quite happily.

He didn't know how long he'd been lying there, but when the man in black told him to open his eyes he obeyed without any hesitation. And when he was asked to supply his name, rank and serial number, he did so without a thought. And when the man in black said it was time to discuss Flaming Star, Harry agreed. He was actually quite anxious to talk; to share his knowledge. It felt freeing to be able to discuss this secret project at last; and he could tell that the man in black was anxious to hear so Harry was pleased that his information would be appreciated. But before he could talk a loud noise was heard just outside the door, and then lots of noise. Sort of sounded like gunfire, but Harry wasn't concerned in the least. Only now the man in black wasn't paying attention to him. This disturbed Harry as he so much wanted to tell him all about the military's fantastic project.

The man in black was screaming orders at his men who disappeared outside the door, leaving just Igor as the man in black followed after them with more gunfire erupting. They were only gone a short while when another man in black came barging in decking Igor and putting him out cold with one swing. Harry looked up and smiled as the second man in black, this one wearing a white shirt under his black jacket, began to unstrap him.

“Lee,” Harry said pleasantly, “When did you get here?” Harry was completely unaware of his predicament and anxious to share his knowledge. Lee took one appraising look into Harry's glossy eyes and helped him off the gurney.

“I was just getting ready to discuss Flaming Star with that nice gentleman...” Harry started but was hit with one of Lee's uppercuts with the force that earned him his title of middleweight boxing champion at Annapolis. Harry's eyes rolled to the back of his head as Lee scooped him up in a fireman's hold carrying him out with one hand on Harry, the other sporting his .45 menacingly.

The way was clear, his local contacts having kept Harry's captors busy as he made his way out of the warehouse. A car was waiting with its back door open as Lee shifted Harry to stuff his unconscious body into the backseat. Another shot rang out when Lee stood to pull the door shut and he felt the accompanying “sting” as a bullet passed through his shoulder. He jumped into the car urging the driver onward as he sent covering gunfire out the lowered window. When they were clear, Lee holstered his gun and looked over at Harry slumped against the door, sporting the bruise he had given him. Lee reached over and felt Harry's face, satisfying himself that he hadn't gone into shock and lingered his hand over the bruise on Harry's jaw. Then he sat back with a steel determined look on his face as his driver glanced back at him through the rear view mirror. Lee ignored him and watched for any sign of Harry waking up. He didn't know how many times he could deck Harry like that again, but he couldn't allow Harry to talk in front of anyone...even his contacts.

* * * * *

They drove for about an hour, and Lee was both concerned and relieved that Harry had remained unconscious. It almost sounded as if he had passed into a deep sleep and Lee hoped Harry would stay out until he could get him into a secure location. Finally, the car turned off the lonely wooded road to a house out in the middle of nowhere. His driver exited to help with Harry, but Lee declined his aid and pulled Harry's arm over his good shoulder. Harry roused and looked at Lee smiling as if they had just been out on the town together, but thankfully didn't speak.

Lee pushed his way past the two contacts inside the small house and moved without speaking to the back bedroom laying Harry down on the bed. He turned to his two contacts, a man and a woman and spoke to them in a no nonsense and deadly serious tone.

“That's all I'll need from you. Close the door behind you, if anyone comes through the door, I'll shoot.”

“Lee, at least let me look at your shoulder,” Ria asked with concern in her eyes.

“I'll be fine till morning,” he paused and sighed, not wanting Harry to get talkative as he worked out these details, and then continued. “The drug will be active for the next eight hours, that's how long I'm going to quarantine him. Now please,” he tilted his head toward the door to indicate their exit as both Ria and Claas left pulling the door behind them. Lee immediately went to the door and locked it and then pulled a straight back chair sitting under a small desk over to shove under the doorknob.

“Lee?” Harry called as he spoke in a slurred voice.

“I'm here Admiral,” he answered as he closed the distance to Harry's bed.

“Lee, I'm glad you're here.” Harry chuckled, “I feel kind of funny, but I'm glad you're here because you'll understand all about Flaming Star and I won't have to repeat myself,” Harry smiled at that realization.

“Admiral,” Lee said looking toward the door and knowing that this quarantine wouldn't work if anyone decided to put an ear to the door. “Harry...let's talk about something different.”

Harry took on a disappointed look, he so wanted to discuss Flaming Star, “Like what?” He asked petulantly, as if there wasn't anything else worthy of discussing.

“Let's talk about the new algae samples you just took aboard Seaview,” Lee answered with a smile.

“I thought you were bored with my observations on the new species we found,” Harry said questioningly.

“No Sir, I found them quite interesting,” Lee said knowing that Harry could talk for several hours straight on nearly any subject. He was like a vacuum for knowledge and enjoyed sharing it when appropriate.

“I think Flaming Star would be much more interesting...”

“No Sir, I really would like to know all about that new species you found. Didn't you say that the algae had potential for pharmaceuticals?”

Harry's interest was peaked, and he was truly pleased that Lee had been listening when he first told him about the new discovery and gladly began to educate Lee on the new specimen; how it compared and contrasted with the known varieties; it's possible medicinal value; and an hour and half later asked Lee if he wanted the algae named after him.

Lee declined, and moved Harry onto another subject as he sat on the side of his bed. Lee noticed Harry's eyes getting heavy and hoped that meant he was going to take a rest. He knew that Harry wouldn't be out all night, the drug was designed to keep its subject talking, but he could really go for a short reprieve himself. Lee watched Harry drift off, and pulled the blanket up to his chest. He felt his face again and was relieved to see that he felt normal.

He turned sharply when he thought he heard the doorknob jiggle. Immediately he pulled his automatic from its holster and cocked the gun. The sound of the sliding metal pulling a cartridge into the chamber was unmistakable and the door got quiet. He listened a bit longer and then moved to the corner of the room where a comfortable armchair sat and lowered himself down. He had field dressed himself while Harry was expounding upon the colorful and exciting world of algae and Harry hadn't seemed to flinch at all as Lee applied a wad of gauze and then a piece of duct tape over his entry and exit wounds. It was harder to reach the high wound on his upper back shoulder, but Harry had reached up and lent a helping hand not breaking stride at all with his dissertation on the exciting subject he was enlightening Lee with.

Lee needed to be careful, he didn't want to get too comfortable and fall asleep, so he sat there keeping vigil over the sleeping Admiral. Johnson had told him what to expect from the drug, and it was his plan to get there before they administered the shot, but things weren't working smoothly from the get go. His shoulder was throbbing, and he used the pain to keep himself from drifting off as he thought back over how this innocent Conference had turned into an ONI mission so quickly.

* * * * *

Amsterdam – Three Days Earlier

Harry and Lee arrived in Amsterdam via First Class aboard a commercial airliner. The flight had been longer than if they had flown by FS1, but the amazing flying submersible was at present undergoing a complete tear down/rebuild maintenance. Very routine, but very time consuming. Harry asked Lee along to make a special presentation on Lee's observations of a recent underwater volcanic fissure that Lee had close up experience with. His and Chip's near disaster while gliding the flying sub through the depths had provided some fascinating observations.* Lee viewed Harry's invitation to speak as an honor and graciously accepted even though these types of conferences weren't exactly his cup of tea.

They arrived at the five star hotel in Amsterdam and shared a large two bedroom suite. The sitting area was bigger than Lee's living room back in Santa Barbara, and there was plenty of privacy in the fancy accommodations. They walked to the restaurant to enjoy the sights along the way, and were ready for the Conference early the next morning.

As expected, the Conference was interesting but long, still it had been a nice experience to share with Harry. Lee was pleased to see Harry so relaxed, as he was definitely in an element he enjoyed. And he suspected that Harry was also enjoying showing off Seaview's Captain as being so scientifically astute. Lee knew that Harry's pride was more than professional, and had introduced him to his colleagues with all the pride of a father introducing his son. Lee was honored and enjoyed the unspoken regard that Harry was displaying so freely on this trip.

“Are you ready for your presentation tomorrow, Lee?” Harry asked leisurely. He really wasn't worried; he knew Lee was always ready for his assignments.

“Yes Sir, all set,” Lee answered with a half-smile, “I just hope I can pull it off.”

“Nonsense Lee. You'll do fine,” Harry said reassuredly. Lee returned his smile and took in the confidence that Harry had for him.

“Well, let's head for that restaurant I told you about. I think you're going to really enjoy the cuisine there,” Harry said, his excitement for showing Lee the city escaping through his half smile.

“Aye Sir,” Lee said with a grin, and they left with the Admiral giving another grand tour of the city.

The next morning was Lee's scheduled presentation. He was putting the final touches on the windsor knot of his tie when the phone rang by his bed. Lee moved to the nightstand and sat down on the bed as he reached for the phone.

“Hello,” he answered, careful to not go military in his greeting.

“Crane, this is Johnson.”

Lee went full military at the sound of Admiral Johnson's voice, “Yes Sir. What can I do for you Sir?” He asked wondering what was so important that Johnson would track him down halfway across the globe.

“Are you alone Crane?” Johnson asked without any pleasantries.

“Yes Sir.”

“Good. You're officially on assignment as of this moment, Commander.”

Lee willed down the audible sigh he wanted to pass and listened as the head of ONI continued, “We have credible intel to warrant a full extraction right now, but we don't want to break the cover of our inside contact. You will therefore, make every effort to shadow and protect your target against the very real possibility of kidnapping for the purpose of securing top secret information.”

“Who is my target Sir?” Lee asked, wondering how he was going to break the news to Harry that he wouldn't be giving his presentation this morning.

“Harriman Nelson,” Johnson answered.

Lee swallowed as his tone darkened at the seriousness of Johnson's revelation, “What's going on here, Sir?” He asked in a direct tone but still well within the working relationship that he and Johnson had forged over the years.

Johnson blew out an audible breath, “Our contact is deep within an organization with ultimate plans for world domination. They know that Harry is the brain child behind Flaming Star, now I can't go into the details of the project with you. Suffice it to say that if they got a hold of the project their plans could very well be within their reach.”

Lee nodded to himself, understanding the seriousness of the mission, “But if they've profiled Nelson they must know that he wouldn't break and divulge what they want,” Lee stated needing all the information he could get.

“Our man inside says that they have a powerful drug that will keep Nelson talking as long as they want. It's called X-111 and one single dose will keep him talking for eight hours once the thirty minute incubation period is complete. It breaks down all the walls of willpower and common sense, almost like an alcoholic high. If it's administered, he will talk,” Johnson added.

“Alright Sir, but if the kidnapping is that imminent let's just pull the plug now and I'll get the Admiral to the safety of the nearest US installation.”

“Negative Commander. Our contact is a well-placed CIA Agent, his cover is too valuable to break. You will continue with what you are doing there, don't let Harriman out of your sight, and very casually head to the airport tomorrow morning. Your flight will look like a commercial flight out, but you'll be on a chartered flight with Air Force Rangers to escort you to a base in Germany.”

Lee didn't like the way this was playing out, but he knew all too well the importance of not blowing the cover of an agent deep undercover.

“Aye Sir, do I have backup on this end?” He asked professionally, keeping his personal feelings in check.

“The best I can do are two locals on our payroll for information from time to time. Commander,” Johnson stopped and took a breath, “I can't vouch for their loyalties in this matter. They seem sound, or I wouldn't involve them, but use your good judgment in all dealings with them. Their names are Ria and Claas, a husband and wife team. They'll be at the Conference today and you'll know Claas by the dyed blue carnation he'll wear on his lapel. I'm working on bringing you help from ONI, but this is hot off the presses Lee, and your local ops are the best I can do right now.”

“Aye Sir,” Lee acknowledged.

“Consider this line tapped from this point on. Keep Harriman Nelson safe, and get to the airport tomorrow morning by 0800. You'll be met by an operative you know who will escort you the rest of the way. Are you armed, Commander?”

“Yes Sir,” Lee always came prepared and had checked his .45 automatic through in his luggage.

“Good Commander. That is all.”

“Aye Sir,” the line went dead and Lee hung up and took a deep breath as he shed his suit jacket and walked to the bureau opening a drawer. He moved a few articles around and pulled out his shoulder holster securing it in place. He pulled his .45 out and inserted a full clip with an audible click, and then grabbed a second fully loaded clip and walked back to the bed sliding it into his jacket pocket, placing his jacket back on. He took one final look in the mirror, his dark black jacket sat contrasted over his white dress shirt, a narrow black tie finished off the ensemble. His sidearm was carefully hidden, and nobody would know that he was prepared to defend Harry's life with his very own if needed. He left the room and found Harry waiting for him standing at the window of the high rise luxury hotel. At his arrival in the room Harry turned toward Lee with a serious look on his face.

“Were you fully briefed?” Harry asked.

“Yes Sir,” Lee answered somewhat surprised that Harry was already informed.

Harry registered his confusion and supplied the information Lee needed, “Gerald called while you were in the shower.”

“I don't like this Admiral. I wish I could cancel the presentation today...”

“No Lee, that would be awkward and alert them that something is wrong,” Harry stopped and smiled, “Besides I'm really looking forward to hearing your presentation today.”

Lee shook his head and blew out a breath, shooting Harry a half smile across the room. Harry was one of the coolest men he ever knew in the face of danger. The two shared a small chuckle dispensing some of the tension in the room as Harry spoke.

“Well, I do believe it's time to make our appearance downstairs,” Harry said as if nothing was wrong and there wasn't a plot to kidnap him in the works.

Lee nodded and closely followed Harry out the door.

* * * * *

As they entered the hall they were greeted by other members of the oceanic community as they gathered together in small groups socializing over the continental breakfast served buffet style. Lee stayed close to Harry and blended in easily.

“Harriman, I had no idea your Captain was so astute!” One oceanographer commented, obviously surprised that Lee had followed the conversation and had added his appropriate observations as well.

“Only the best for Seaview, Russell, only the best,” Harry answered as he shot a glance at Lee who found it necessary to glance down at the interesting pattern in the carpet at his feet. When he raised his eyes he casually scanned the room and found the blue carnation on a man with a woman standing on his arm. Their eyes met but they made no nod or acknowledgment of each other's presence. Good, Lee thought, at least when he gave his presentation Harry would be covered. Lee took another sip of his coffee and continued his scan of the conference room; a rather large hall with a raised stage for the speakers, chairs for several hundred guests and enough room in the back for the buffet and socializing. Seeing nothing out of the ordinary he turned his attention fully back to the conversation Harry was having with Russell over the unusual coral formations looking oddly like chariot wheels just discovered in the Red Sea.

The lights flickered on and off to alert the guests that the conference was about to commence as Lee and Harry made their way to the front of the hall with Lee taking his place on the stage, and Harry sitting a few seats back from the front row. Lee smiled inwardly at the proud papa look Harry was trying not to sport just now as he was introduced. Lee's presentation included a slide show of the volcanic fissure he and Chip had photographed and very ably made his presentation. Though the lights were lowered, he could still make out Harry and continued to keep track of him even with the complex subject he was speaking on. As he closed the lights were raised and Lee was relieved to have both finished his presentation and that Harry was right where he should be. He left the stage to appreciative applause as the moderator announced a short intermission before the next presentation.

“Nicely done,” Harry said as he greeted Lee.

“Thank you, Sir,” he replied grateful to be done with the presentation so that he could turn his full attention to Harry.

“Let's get some fresh air Lee,” Harry said as he headed for the patio at the back of the hall. They hadn't gotten too far when the conference guests nearly mobbed Lee, all wanting to thank him for the presentation and ask him questions about his up close adventure with the underwater volcano. Lee smiled politely, answered a few questions and noticed that Harry had kept moving onward. Lee excused himself to follow as Harry walked with a strange posture; very upright and very uptight. Lee caught the sight of a man's hand on Harry's elbow and another man behind him walking unusually close. He began to fight past the well-wishers as Harry was hustled out of the hall and rounded the patio corner. Lee dropped all subterfuge of politeness at that point and barreled past the mob of people in front of him making it to the patio and rounding the corner. He was met by a brutal blow to the solar plexus that left him doubled over and gasping for air. Once he had regained the breath that had lingered just out of reach for far too long, he felt someone help him to his feet and raised his eyes to see Claas. Lee wondered just where Claas and Ria had been in all this but didn't have time for questions.

“Come, Ria is trailing them,” Claas said as Lee nodded and stood fully erect from his hunched over position. They made their way to the back of the hotel's service entrance but saw nothing. Just then a small beep was heard and Claas reached into his jacket pocket to retrieve a small communication's device.

“Do you have them Ria?” Claas asked without a greeting.

“Yes, I'm following their auto, they're headed for the industrial district.”

“Keep trailing them, we're right behind you,” Claas said efficiently as he and Lee ran for the parking lot in the front of the hotel and climbed into a car as Claas drove. Lee watched his surroundings knowing exactly the turns they made in this unfamiliar city as Claas answered another hail with the final directions of where Harry was taken.

“Stay there and out of sight,” Lee said as he spoke into the small radio. “Whatever you do, don't lose track of Admiral Nelson,” he admonished.

Ria acknowledged her understanding as Lee gave the radio back to Claas and proceeded to check the clip in his gun pulling a bullet into the chamber. The look on his face turned deadly and dark as they rounded the last corner and pulled slowly and quietly up to the warehouse. Ria met them at the car and pointed to a door at the back of the alley.

“I need a diversion,” Lee said matter of factly, as he scanned the building for a suitable stealth entry point.

“Leave that to us,” Claas said as Ria nodded her agreement. Lee had no other choice but to trust the local operatives. Other than not sticking close enough to Harry, they had done their parts and besides, he was just as much at fault letting that mob separate them like they did, Lee thought taking full responsibility for Harry's abduction.

Lee nodded and entered in a window, its boards meant at one time to keep people out of the abandoned building were hanging loosely, obviously where someone had entered sometime before. Once inside, Lee made his way toward the only light in the warehouse other than the light that filtered in through the dirty skylights in the warehouse ceiling.

Lee could see two men outside a small room talking amongst themselves and waited for his diversion. He checked his watch and wondered what was taking Claas and Ria so long. The abductors had plenty of time to administer the drug, though Lee understood that the drug would take thirty minutes to be fully effective. Suddenly it happened, the diversion he needed, as across the warehouse a small explosion was heard and the two men left guarding the door took off to investigate. Lee waited, knowing that it would only take a few seconds for the occupants of the room to want to know what was going on. Sure enough, a stream of three more men exited the room with a man dressed entirely in black following behind. They were chasing the sounds of gunfire across the warehouse as Claas and Ria had effectively lured the men away.

Lee slinked along the wall and reached the room they just vacated. He was greeted by a man in a white lab coat and decked him without even speaking. The man slithered down the gurney in a heap, out cold with one punch as Lee moved quickly towards Harry, releasing his restraining straps.

“Lee, when did you get here?” Harry asked in a tone indicating that he was completely unaware of the danger around them as Lee studied his unresponsive glossy eyes. Lee pulled Harry up to a sitting position as Harry continued.

“I was just getting ready to discuss Flaming Star with that nice gentleman...” Lee had no choice, as he swung connecting with Harry's jaw and sending his friend into an instant state of unconsciousness. Lee scooped him up putting him over his shoulder and carried him out of the room in a fireman's hold. The gunfight was still raging on across the warehouse floor as Lee made it to the alley door. An explosion was heard inside the warehouse behind him, but he ignored it as he headed for Claas' car dumping Harry into the backseat as Claas came running around the corner, having obviously come from another exit point. Claas made it to the driver's side but was followed with a barrage of bullets from his pursuers as Lee stood to close door. He felt the bullet as it passed through his shoulder and pulled the door closed as Claas sped away with Lee laying down fire to cover their escape.

Lee checked Harry's forehead, satisfying himself that he was just unconscious and met Claas' eyes in the rear view mirror. He reached up and loosened his tie pulling it off his neck and released several buttons from his shirt collar as he took a deep breath trying to ignore his shoulder. From what Harry said he hadn't started talking yet, so as far as Lee knew Flaming Star was still secure. They drove along not saying a word as Lee watched for any sign of Harry waking up, hoping he'd stay unconscious. He decked Harry without a thought to protect the military project from stray ears, and he'd have to do it again if Harry started talking again. Lee didn't relish that thought and said a silent prayer that Harry would stay out long enough to isolate him.

They drove unpursued by Harry's abductors as Lee took periodic glances out his back window as they followed a lonely wooded road. He spotted a car behind them, but Claas assured him it was Ria. Lee nodded and continued his vigil over his best friend slumped in the seat sporting a red spot quickly turning into a full bruise on his jaw. Finally, they drove up to a house in the middle of nowhere as Lee moved to secure Harry. He declined help from Claas and Ria and quarantined Harry in the back bedroom.

* * * * *

Now he sat watching over his best friend, as Harry began to stir again. Lee held his shoulder as he leaned forward and moved to his feet, feeling the pain of the bullet wound.

“Lee, where are you?” Harry asked, still in that glossy state of awareness. Lee moved to sit beside Harry on the bed and answered.

“I'm here Admiral.”

“Lee, we're not on the boat. Once in a while you could call me Harry you know?” Harry said, in the first time he ever invited Lee to call him by his first name. It wasn't unusual for ONI missions, but Harry had always known that for Lee, “Admiral” was like his name; more than his rank, a title of respect.

Lee just smiled and answered agreeably, “Okay Harry. You know I was really interested in your latest invention and how your new seismic sensors can stand the depths of the Mariana Trenches.”

Harry's eyes lit up, “You really want to know how it works?”

“Absolutely Ad...Harry.”

Harry's face changed in countenance, “Where's that gentleman, the snappy dresser? I've never seen anyone put a black shirt under a black suit before?” he said, in a conversation very unlike Harriman Nelson.

He knew Harry was headed back to the subject of Flaming Star, his abductors having obviously implanted a strong need in him to discuss the subject, and diverted him back to the sensors. Lee understood the basics of the new sensors, but he knew that he could keep Harry busy awhile with the specifics of the complicated electronic devices. Harry's face lit back up and began to enlighten Lee on the delicate components he had used to create the device; gave him a run down on all the bids he took to build the sensors; and diverted slightly to tell him of the terrible restaurant that one vendor took him to after touring their facility. Then bringing himself back on track finished two hours later by expounding the benefits of one size wire gauge over another for the inside circuitry.

Lee looked on with interest, but he was dead tired and his shoulder was really hurting. He snuck a peek at his watch and realized that he had another two hours to go before the effectiveness of the drug would finally wear off.

“Lee, I have ever told you what a good boy you are?” Harry said, in his euphoric near drunken state. Lee knew that had Harry not been compromised by the drug he would never say such a thing, and though he had no doubt that Harry's fondness for him was of a fatherly nature he couldn't let Harry say what he normally wouldn't. He wouldn't betray Harry's private feelings that way, so Lee diverted him again.

“You know Harry, I was just thinking about the possibility of adding a third screw to Seaview's propulsion system.” This he knew would send Harry in a new direction as Lee knew full well Seaview's hull design wouldn't support a third propeller. Still, his suggestion had the desired affect as Harry tossed his hand toward Lee in a disgusted fashion.

“Now Lee, you know full well that I put a lot of thought into Seaview's twin screws...”

Lee was relieved as Harry went off again on a long dissertation of Bernoulli's Principle and how it applies to fluid dynamics and Newton's Third Law of Motion to explain exactly how propellers work underwater, and then got off on a delightful tangent of a new idea he had for reducing cavitation when too much power is applied at very high speed. The end result was two hours of non-stop talk as Lee sat back and smiled, nodding his head ever so often. He took a glance at his watch relieved to see that this talking marathon was just about over.

“You know Lee, you sure have asked a lot of questions tonight.”

“Yes Sir,” Lee agreed with a smile as Harry turned over on his side and snuggled into bed.

“Well, I for one am ready for sleep,” Harry noted, and happily drifted off as Lee pulled the blankets over his shoulder. Lee sat there a moment satisfying himself that the next time Harry woke he'd be more like himself and moved wearily back over to the armchair. He settled into the chair listening to Harry snore lightly as he unholstered his gun placing it on his lap to continue his “watch” over Admiral Nelson. The danger of the drug had passed, but Lee still had to get Harry to safety. He allowed his eyes to close as he rested and drifted into a light sleep.

* * * * *

Several hours later he woke to the smell of coffee in the kitchen and pulled himself from the chair as he holstered his sidearm. He walked to Harry's side finding him sleeping soundly as he finished buttoning his shirt, left partly open from applying his field dressing the night before. He carefully tucked his shirt back into his slacks trying not to use his injured shoulder and moved to the door, removing the straight back chair from under the knob. As he walked out he was greeted with the full aroma of a deep rich blend of coffee and a hot breakfast which Ria had prepared.

“How are you doing, Lee?” She asked, her eyes honing in on the bloodstain on his shoulder.

“I'm okay. That coffee sure smells good,” he added as she motioned him to the kitchen table.

“How is he?” Ria asked as she placed a mug in front of Lee and poured the coffee for him.

“Resting. I think he's free from the drug now,” Lee replied, relieved that the long night was over. He took a sip and looked around the room.

“Where's Claas?” He asked in part curiosity and part suspicion.

“Right here,” he heard from behind him. Lee turned to see Claas as he made his way to the breakfast table. “It sounded like Admiral Nelson kept you busy last night,” Claas added with a wink.

“A little, but it was worth it,” Lee replied wearily, he had already finished the first cup of coffee as Ria poured him another cup.

“I need to contact ONI; do we have a secure radio strong enough to broadcast from here?” Lee asked hopefully.

Claas nodded, “Yes, this safe-house has been equipped for several contingencies.”

“Can I look at your shoulder, Lee?” Ria asked.

“Let's see what the extraction plan's going to be first. If it's fairly soon I'll leave it be since it's not bleeding. If not...”

“I'll take care of it,” Ria interrupted and finished.

“I need to wait till the Admiral wakes to see how mobile he is, then we can work on a new extraction plan.” They missed their original extraction at the airport, and Lee needed to know what the after effects of the drug might be before he committed to a new plan.

Ria and Claas nodded in agreement as Lee sat back and enjoyed his third cup of coffee.

* * * * *

Lee resumed his watch over Harry as he took a light nap in the chair with his .45 still sitting on his lap.

“Lee?”

Lee aroused to the sound of his name as Harry sat up in bed holding his head. Lee moved a bit too quickly and took a breath as his shoulder reminded him that his self-applied medical care hadn't included antiseptic or antibiotics. He recovered and went to Harry's side, depositing himself on the edge of the bed as he took in Harry's condition.

“How are you feeling, Admiral?” Lee asked, hoping that Harry was really back this time.

“Like an idiot,” Harry answered dryly.

Lee let out a silent breath in relief, “How much do you remember, Sir?”

“Unfortunately...everything,” Harry said repositioning his pillow to sit against the headboard as he leaned back and blew out a breath.

Lee smiled, grateful to see the fire back in Admiral Harriman Nelson's eyes again. “Sir, I need to ask you about the interrogation,” Lee broached the subject shyly.

Harry shook his head, obviously disgusted with himself. “I didn't have time to tell him anything before you made your appearance, but I would have happily given him anything!” Harry leaned back angrily in self-recrimination.

Lee shook his head in the negative, “It was the drug, Sir. You were no more to blame than I was after the brainwashing.” Lee knew that would get Harry's attention as it had been a long road to self-forgiveness for Lee to accept what the People's Republic had done to him.**

Harry looked up, knowing it had cost Lee to say that and nodded his head, adding a tight closed mouth smile.

“Thank you Lee, and... thank you for your expert diversionary tactics last night.”

Lee nodded in acknowledgment as Harry finally caught sight of the dried blood on Lee's shirt. His countenanced changed to concern as he looked on.

“Did you take a bullet, Lee?”

“A straight-through Sir. I think it'll be fine until we hit a safe zone,” Lee answered matter of factly.

Harry nodded, not quite sure he believed it but continued on, “What is the new extraction plan?”

“I was just about to contact ONI, Sir. I was waiting to see how you felt.”

“Oh just peachy,” Harry deadpanned, still disgusted with himself, but moved on. “But I think I have nothing more than a slight hang-over,” Harry continued, having already identified the drug's imitation of a drunken stupor.

Lee stood and tilted his head to a door beside him, “I'll let you freshen up and get you fixed up with a cup of coffee and we'll make the call together.” Lee smiled and then left, his relief visible in every step.

* * * * *

Harry and Lee huddled around the outdated but sufficient radio unit and connected with ONI. A new
“chartered flight” was arranged with the promise of an ONI Operative known personally to Lee as their contact at the airport. They rested for another two hours and then left with Lee and Harry taking one car and Claas and Ria taking the other.

Lee knew that the mission wasn't over yet, not until Harriman Nelson was safe aboard the flight surrounded by Rangers, so he kept his eyes peeled as he drove. They made their way to the airport and left their car at the unloading zone as Claas and Ria pulled up behind them to claim it. They had already said their goodbyes and thank yous and so Lee ushered Harry into the terminal as quickly as he could with Lee sporting a mismatched jacket he had borrowed from Claas to hide his bloody shirt. They walked past the ticket counter and through security and headed for their assigned “airline” when they were met by their ONI Operative.

Lee kept his expression schooled as Chip Morton stood in front of him wearing a dark blue flight attendant's uniform complete with the airline's tri-colored striped tie, matching breast pocket handkerchief, and a flight insignia over his left breast pocket, his perfectly styled blond hair and deep blue eyes rounding off the sharpness of his appearance. He was holding a clip board and introduced himself to Lee and Harry as their Airline Representative there to escort them to their plane. They boarded the courtesy cart and drove through the terminal to the special gate awaiting them. They boarded the plane amongst businessmen, vacationers and travelers and soon found themselves safely inside the plane surrounded by the promised Rangers dressed as businessmen, vacationers and travelers. As they strapped in to take off, Lee was tempted to ask Chip for a drink and a bag of peanuts but opted to approach a subject he knew he was going to get equal mileage out of.

“ONI Operative, Chip?” Lee asked, raising an eyebrow as Harry shared the smirk on Lee's face. Both Harry and Lee were well aware of Chip's regard for ONI; not his professional regard, but the fact that Lee often returned from missions in less than stellar condition had soured his personal regard for ONI.

“Just a TDY*** Lee,” Chip growled, but then settled into the chair across the aisle smiling, satisfied that both Lee Crane and Harriman Nelson were safe and sound, except for the arm Lee was favoring, but they'd sort that out at the airbase in Germany.

They laughed as the tension of the extraction faded and the real flight attendants made their way down the aisle with the drink cart. Lee leaned his head back letting out a breath and sunk heavily into his seat. Harry noticed and looked over concerned, but didn't say a word as Lee closed his eyes and let the hum of the jet lull him to the sleep he missed out on the night before.

Harry leaned his head back as well thinking how very fortunate he was to have such a good friend. He knew Lee would never bring up the sentimental dribble he started to engage in while he was in his drugged state. Still... Someday, Harry thought. Someday he really was going to tell Lee how proud he was as Lee gave his presentation; what a fine officer he was; what an excellent Captain he was; and...what a good boy he really was. The thought made Harry smile as he closed his eyes as well knowing that “Someday” would probably never come, but enjoying the thought just the same.

The End

Unspoken Regard

*Not a story....yet : )

**See the First Season Episode, The Saboteur

***TDY – Temporary Duty

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