And human. Oh, my God, how human.

She tore her gaze away. “Even if it was true, it wasn’t kind of Gilroy,” she said lightly as she glanced at Margaret. “What do you think, Margaret?”

“I think that Korgan will manage to survive Gilroy. He seems to do just fine.” She was still looking down at the map. “And I think we need to do some more exploration around the entire area. When can we leave here?”

“Later this afternoon,” he said. “I have some calls to make, and I want to make sure that Gilroy has everything he needs and is on his way to Jubaldar. We can take the Land Rover for the first part of the journey, but we’ll have to leave it here.” He indicated a spot some distance from Jubaldar. “From there we’re on foot, so we’d better travel by night and find a place to camp out that’s close to the castle and yet safe.”

“Calls?” Alisa repeated. “You said there were things you could do that Gilroy couldn’t. Who are you calling?”

“Vogel.” He added, “And maybe Lakewood.” He saw her tense and said quickly, “We’re going to need him. I have to prepare him. You know it.”

“I know if you bring the CIA in too soon, you’ll get Sasha killed,” she said curtly. “Lakewood is going to be like a hungry lion when he goes after Masenak. He’s had all those diplomats and power figures on his ass for a solid month. All he wants is Masenak’s head on a platter.”

“Then I won’t let the lion have Masenak until we get Sasha out. I’ll hold off Lakewood until we have her safe. Trust me.” She didn’t answer and he went on, “Look, these mountains are going to be hell to negotiate. We’ll have to slip in troops and weapons and place them where we can before any attack. But I can do it. I’ll handle it. I’ll never let anything happen to either of you again.” He paused and then asked, “Will you trust me?”

She was silent. “I might,” she finally said. “Even though Gilroy says you have no dazzle or pizzazz, I’ve always found you to be an honest man. That has to count for something.” She looked back down at the map, her finger once more reaching out to trace the south wall leading to the stable. Soon, Sasha. We’ll be there soon. “But if you don’t keep Lakewood under control, I’ll go after him myself. Remember that, Korgan.”

“I’ll remember,” he said wryly. “I’m just grateful you didn’t say you’d go after me.”

*  *  *

1:40 P.M.