Epilogue:

"Of course." There were no names, no faces. Just a conference call, sent through a dozen cut outs, using the most advanced encryption. Anyone listening to the call might not even realize there was a conversation going on other than a family talking about their children.

"How long?"

"Give me a few weeks to make ready." The second voice paused, "The targets are pretty obvious—the Americans are so painfully predictable."

"Predictable…but powerful."

"Ah, you have never studied martial arts."

"No. I have better things to do."

"That much is obvious. Weight and strength are important…if you know how to use them. If you don't, and your opponent does…they are only tools he can use to destroy you. The American's strength will not help them here. Quite the contrary. It will help destroy them."

"Very well."

"But first…my payment?"

"It will be deposited in your accounts… the other… may be difficult."

"It will not. All you have to do is provide the right information, and he will come, with his slut in tow. I will have them, and I will kill him…after he sees every plan he has made, every hope, come to ruin."

"As long as it doesn't impact the over all mission, do as you please."

"Oh, I intend to do just that."

End Part I.