Chapter One

Ally Breedlove hung precariously from the watery edge of a twenty-five foot cliff as hungry cannibals followed her ascent. The twenty-seven year old green-eyed blonde regarded danger with a sense of enticement. Scantily dressed which revealed her strong but feminine muscles; Ally quickly negotiated the steep wall, dodging several spears. The drums in the background pounded loudly, hurrying her escape upward and then with a hasty turn of her head, she peered down into the awe-filled eyes of the male directly below her. "Kana! Hey, Kana."

Lost in a fantasy haze, a twenty-two year old college intern intently watched from the ground.

"What are you doing? Daydreaming?" Ally rolled her eyes. "Throw me up that wrench."

Shaking his head, Kana allowed her lilting voice to pull him out of his sensual musings. Reality set in and he now clearly saw Ally hanging precariously from the edge of a twenty-five foot water tower. Water was gushing from one of the main lines. Not liking the scene before him, Kana frantically searched for the wrench. Upon finding it, he swung it wildly up to Ally.

Ally stretched out as far as she could but the wrench was jut beyond her reach. Kana cringed at the sight of the young woman dangling from the tower platform. The wrench plopped in the mud next to him.

"Come on…. again. You can do it." The blonde encouraged her friend.

Now muddy and frustrated, Kana cocked his arm back, letting loose of the wrench with all his might.

Again, Ally reached outward. As one foot slipped, she grabbed the wrench then with her other arm jerked back safely, both her feet now firmly planted on the landing. "Nice throw." Ally quickly cinched the connector, causing the leak to slowly dwindle to nothing. With the rope she was using as an anchor, Ally glided gracefully down to the ground. Before slapping her hands together, she replaced the wrench back into the toolbox.

In awe of his boss, Kana teased. "Just another day at the office, huh?"

Ally flashed the dark handsome man a bright smile as she strolled past him. It didn't take Kana long to jump in behind her. "Come on… we've got work to do."

*************************

A piercing noise blared from the alarm clock sitting on the table near the side of the bed. Not much of an early riser, Chas Tucker grabbed for the alarm clock and swiped it off the table. As it hit the floor the irritating noise stopped. The tall thirty-year-old New Yorker with raven hair and ice blue eyes snuggled back in under her covers.

When the telephone rang, Chas' hand peeked out from under the covers, searching for it on the side table. She picked up the telephone and held it momentarily as if deciding what to do with it.

"Chastity! Chastity, I know you're there." A voice screamed from the telephone.

Chas slowly started to replace the telephone back on the base opting to fall back into her peaceful slumber.

But the insistent voice on the telephone commanded sharply. "Don't you dare hang up on me. I'll just keep calling back and if I have to come over there…."

Reluctantly, Chas put the telephone up to her ear. "Okay, okay. I'm getting up. I don't know why I can't sleep in just a bit longer."

"Not today, the boss wants to see you in his office in an hour. Now up!"

The now wide-awake Chas bolted up to a sitting position. "Why? What's going on? Do you think it's about that merger… or maybe a promotion?" Shaking her head, she continued. "No. You don't think he found out about…. I mean that was an accident."

Frustrated with her boss, the twenty-four year old Jean interrupted. "Chastity, you're rambling again. And forget about the Chinese curio, we used plenty of super glue. Now…. get up!"

"Fine." Chas hung up then slowly got out of bed, stumbling about due to the early hour.

***********************

Wearing an old sweaty cowboy hat, a rugged looking man with a sharp militaristic edge stared intently at the Chinese owner of the shop. They walked around the shop as Eric pointed at several objects then both of them walked through a covertly covered doorway into a room filled with a horde of ivory tusks and other illegally gained goods. Suddenly, Eric's head bolted around when he heard a siren in the distance. Eric and the storeowner rushed from the secret room into the main shop then the Chinese man disguised the furtive pathway once more.

A questioning look came over Eric's face as he asked in haste. "Back door?"

The Chinese man pointed in the other direction. Like a speeding bullet, Eric cut through the air and was gone.

************************

Impeccably dressed, Chas exited the elevator and was immediately met by her vivacious assistant. A well organized and up and coming woman, Jean followed Chas into her office. "You'll have to return a call to Davis first thing then meet with the boss. I've cleared up the rest of your schedule."

Swinging around, Chas asked suspiciously. "Why?"

With a mock smile, Jean teasingly hinted. "I've got a feeling you'll be packing." The assistant turned on her heel and quickly walked out the door, leaving Chas in a state of quandary.

***********************

Eric patiently waited to see where the Chinese police would stop. When the cop car pulled up in front of the antiquities shop, one of the policemen ran toward the alley that Eric was hiding in. He jumped up on the garbage container then to the roof, successfully eluding the policeman.

***********************

Back at the White Elephant Safari compound in Africa, Ally and Kana were dragging some of their equipment inside their quarters. After placing his load on the floor, Kana plopped down on the nearby sofa, closing his eyes. With a small stifled chuckle, Ally looked at him knowingly. "Why don't you take a break?"

Kana slowly opened his right eye, peeked in her direction and then closed it again. "How do you do it? I've only been here a month and it feels like a year."

Ally sorted through the gear on the floor, shrugging. "You'll get used to it. Besides, you wanted a real African 'get to know your heritage' experience."

With both eyes still closed, Kana shifted on the sofa for a more comfortable position. "I shoulda just read a book."

Ally threw the gear up over her shoulder before she walked off. "College boys."

***********************

Chas paced around Bullard's magnificent office, briefly taking a few moments to study the animal trophies, trinkets and souvenirs that filled the room. She glanced at the lion's head mounted on the wall then intently stared at the ivory figurine on Bullard's desk. The round Chinese ivory carving was approximately ten inches high. Chas picked it up, searching carefully for any observable cracks.

When Drake Bullard marched into his office, his wrought iron statue presence took command of the room. Having an eerie feeling she was being watched, Chas fumbled with the ivory piece before she placed it back on the desk.

"It's okay." The fifty-year-old executive waved off her interest in the piece. He took up his usual power of position behind his desk and started in on his usual spiel. "Nothing wrong with admiring perfection. Everything you see in here is first class…. I've made sure of that. Nothing but the very best." Bullard reached for the ivory piece but Chas was quicker to the draw, grabbing it up first. Bullard laughed. "That's what I like about you. You have a taste for the finer things in life."

Chas slowly replaced the figurine after her boss sat down in his swivel chair. Relaxing a bit herself, Chas sat down across from Bullard. "So, I hear I may need to pack."

Bullard tossed her a manila envelope. "Africa."

"Africa?" One dark eyebrow shot up.

Bullard shrugged. "We've got resorts all over the world and now we'll have one there, too. I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner." He was quite pleased with himself as he hooked his thumbs in his vest pockets. "After you've come up with a location for the resort, I'll have a permanent place for my expeditions." An evil glint filled his gray eyes. "Danger, mystique, living on the edge…. that's what it's all about." Bullard winked at Chas before he stood. Strolling around to where his employee sat, Bullard gestured for her to get up. Nodding, she followed him over to the display case and then he opened it. Pulling out a four-inch ivory handled folding knife, Bullard gave it to Chas. Bullard swung his arm over Chas' shoulder, directing her to the doorway and pushed her along. "A gift. Now, pack your bags, and find me that perfect place for my resort." Standing at his office doorway, Bullard ordered his secretary. "Get Davis on the phone."

After Bullard abruptly closed his office door, a bewildered Chas wandered back to her office.

***********************

Ally was talking on the telephone as Kana was still lounging on the sofa relaxing. "Yeah, okay. I'll be there."

Wiping the sleep from his dark eyes, Kana sat up. "What was that about?"

Ally ran her hand through her short blonde hair. "My old boss is a little short-handed. They need me to lead one of the caravans for a few days."

Surprised by the news, Kana asked. "But what about us?"

Swinging her arm across the open expanse of her safari quarters, Ally gestured grandly. "Well, as you can see we ain't exactly packin' em in here, are we? That job I did on the water tower was just a temporary fix and we need a new pump. It's just a few days. Besides, we could use the money." Ally headed into her bedroom and returned with a backpack in her hand. Stuffing some clothes in it as she briskly walked across the room, Ally turned toward her assistant and gave him a quick wink.

"What will I do while you're gone?" Kana enjoyed Ally's company immensely and was already feeling a sense of loss upon her announcement of leaving for a few days.

Turning away from him, she smiled but said dead seriously. "There's an upsurge of poachers in the area… south of us. You can take the Rover and scout it out."

Kana leaped up from the sofa and swallowed hard. "You're kiddin', right?"

Without stopping, Ally cut through the door with Kana hot on her heels. She jumped into the Land Rover, started it then slammed down the gas pedal. "See ya later."

Standing alone in the cloud of dust, Kana yelled. "I don't know nothin' about scoutin' no poachers." Grimly, Kana nervously shifted his eyes around until he realized that Ally took the one and only Land Rover owned by White Elephant Safaris. His face lit up happily, realizing that his boss had been teasing him.

**********************

As Chas slept soundly in her bed, the front door to the apartment creaked slowly open. Footsteps could be heard as the intruder moved stealthily along the hallway toward the bedroom. After a woman's dress fell haphazardly to the floor, Jean crawled into bed with Chas. Her lips placed soft kisses on Chas' neck, running down the tall woman's shoulder then back up and over her chin, finally coming to rest on the sleeping woman's lips. Groggy, Chas responded to the welcomed invasion. Chas' arm wrapped around Jean, pulling her tight.

"Morning." Jean lazed up against her boss.

One blue eye popped open. "It is, isn't it?" Suddenly, Chas flipped Jean over and was on top of the vivacious woman. The raven-haired woman's wanderlust hands ran the length of Jean's body as Chas kissed her passionately. Jean moaned from the sexual assault. "Now… this is how I like to wake up." Chas traced tiny kisses down Jean's neck then her head disappeared under the covers to discover the perfect breast waiting there.

Jean fell easily into the sensual feelings of their lovemaking. Then abruptly, she pushed Chas away.

"What?" Surprised, Chas pouted. "You don't want me anymore."

Jean slipped from underneath Chas then got up. The dark haired executive watched closely as Jean put her clothes back on. "You have a plane to catch, remember?"

Smiling, Chas threw back the covers, revealing her sensually shaped naked form. "Change it to a later flight. I have something for you."

Jean eyed her boss warily, almost tempted. "The last time you had something for me you got so carried away we knocked that ivory carving on the floor."

"Hey, you're the one that grabbed for it. I don't know why you were so interested in it anyway. I've got all you can handle right here." Chas ran a seductive hand along her own body, highlighting her womanly shape.

With a mock smile in place, Jean spat sarcastically. "As inanimate as the ivory piece is, it probably has more concern about my pleasure than you do."

Clutching her heart, Chas gave the younger woman a counterfeit hurtful look. "You're cruel, just too cruel." When Jean responded with indifference, Chas reluctantly got up and began to get dressed. After Jean walked out of the bedroom with one of Chas' bags, the older woman mumbled. "Never heard you complain before." Grabbing another bag, Chas strolled out of the bedroom and passed a huge glass aquarium. Pointing to it, Chas asked. "You gonna take good care of him for me?" Chas poked at the glass, trying to get the snake's attention.

Shooting a disapproving look at the six-foot long snake, curled around several limbs in the tank, Jean ordered. "Come on, Chastity. We don't have much time."

Picking up her bag, Chas walked to the door. "First class, right?

Confirming, Jean nodded. "First class."

Suddenly, Chas stopped and turned to Jean. "You know, nothin' but the best for your lover, right? When I move up, so do you." Chas attempted to plant a kiss on Jean's lips but the younger woman brushed past her.

Rolling her frustrated brown eyes, Jean confirmed. "First class seats. First class expedition, first class all the way. Come on, lover."

Resigned to the unexpected trip abroad, Chas followed her assistant reluctantly. "Just what I wanted….. a trip to Africa."

Chapter Two

Several Land Rovers traveled in a caravan through the African National Park Reserve. As they moved along slowly through the wilderness, a few tourist heads were sticking out of the top of the vehicles, snapping shots of the African landscape.

Ally negotiated her Land Rover to a clearing and the rest of the caravan followed suit. While the passengers remained in the Land Rovers, Ally and the other drivers got out and surveyed the immediate area, searching for any potential signs of danger such as snakes. With a thumb stuck up in the air, Ally gave her passengers the 'all clear'. "Okay, you can come out now. We can take a break and get some lunch here."

The passengers flocked out of the Land Rovers, looking around as they searched for a good location to sit. Off in the distance was a small lake with several different types of animals drinking, feeding and bathing in the water. To the right of where they stopped about fifty feet away stood several huge rocks, clumped together.

A very timid woman approached Ally with a ten-year-old girl attached to her. The young girl wore a keen smile accentuated by bright blue eyes that sparkled with mischief. "Is it really safe here?"

Wanting to assure the client, Ally nodded. "Absolutely. We use this spot all the time. Checking the ground out first is just a precaution. Go ahead, relax and get something to eat. We have a long day ahead of us before we get back to camp." The blonde guide wondered about what would bring this young mother and her daughter on such a safari but the glint in her daughter's eyes gave the guide a clue as to the reason.

The young girl tugged at her mother's hand anxiously. Looking at her daughter, she said. "Let me get your lunch and you stay real close to the car, okay?"

But the young girl was filled with amazing sights of the animals and surrounding area. She was not one to just sit and wait for anything or anyone. When her mother walked away, the girl climbed up on the bumper to get a better view of the place.

After a while, all the tourists settled down with their lunches, enjoying the view. Ally and some of the drivers kept close watch on the surrounding area. As the young nervous woman picked at her lunch, she turned to ask her daughter something but her child was gone. She searched through the crowd for her misplaced daughter. Not noticing the young girl anywhere, the scared woman ran frantically to Ally. "Where is she? Have you seen her?"

"Calm down." Motioning to some of the drivers to begin searching, Ally climbed up on the hood of her Land Rover. Her eagle green eyes soon spotted the wayward young girl, standing on top of the nearby rocks. Ally pointed to her and yelled. "There she is."

When the mother screamed at her child, the young girl jerked around, taking a false step. The kid slipped a few feet down between the rocks. Hearing the scream, some of the animals near the lake noticed the turmoil unfolding. Out of her side view, the frantic mother watched in horror as one of the hyenas stalked closer to her daughter's location. She screamed again. Pointing to one of the drivers, Ally motioned to him. "Calm her down… now!"

Ally launched off the hood of the Land Rover, eating up the ground to the rocks. She swiftly climbed up to the child. When she got to the girl, Ally saw that the child's foot was stuck between a small crevice. When she noticed the hyena approaching slowly, Ally turned to the girl.

Seeing the danger, the frightened young girl asked. "Is he gonna eat us?"

"Nope. We're not on the menu… not today anyway." Ally scaled the last few feet of the huge rock to where the girl was stuck. "Listen, I want you to give that ugly thing the meanest look you have while I get your foot unstuck. Okay?" Winking at the young girl, Ally asked. "You can do that, right?'

With a grimace, the young girl nodded with little confidence.

"Is that the meanest look you got?"

Shaking, she replied. "Yes."

Edging even closer, Ally encouraged the young child. "Well, you gotta do better than that."

The small girl thought for a minute then an idea flashed in her head. "I'll give him one of my mom's mean looks." Contorting her face into a ferocious snarl, the young girl bared her teeth viciously, narrowing her eyes with an intense glare.

Ally smiled. "Atta girl."

For a long moment, the hyena appeared to study the young girl carefully. Ally spared a quick peek at the hyena then reached for her boot knife. She carefully cut away the hiking boot from the child's foot. With the young girl's foot now free, Ally grabbed her and descended slowly from the rocks. Smirking, the hyena lost interest in the potential prey as other activities near the water's edge gained its attention. Ally carefully handed the young girl back to her relieved mother.

"Honey, I'm so glad you're safe." She hugged her daughter tightly. "You scared me. Don't you ever do that again."

Ally decided to intervene before the young girl got a real scolding. "Everything's okay now. Let's get packed up. Okay?"

Hurriedly, the drivers herded their passengers back into the Land Rovers. As they began their journey again, the young girl desperately wanted to make up for scaring her mother. She was sitting up front with Ally pondering what to do, as her mother was still quite upset. She sat up in her seat and turned around. "Mother? I helped Ally get that hyena to stay back while she rescued me." The young girl smiled at Ally before turning back to her mother.

Attempting to calm her still racing heart at the sight of seeing her daughter in grave danger, the young woman carefully scrutinized the surrounding area for more dangerous animals. "That's nice, dear."

Eager to share her contribution, the child asked. "You wanna know how I did it?"

With astute eyes glued outside of the vehicle to whatever danger lurked, she absent mindedly asked. "What dear?"

The young girl gave a knowing smile Ally's way. "I gave him one of your mean looks. And it stopped him dead in his tracks." She said proudly before displaying that same look once more. Finally getting her mother's attention, she saw the startled look on her mother's face. Uh oh! The young girl quickly dropped back down in her seat, facing forward.

Keeping her eyes on the road ahead, Ally stifled a small laugh.

***********************

The owner of Premiere Safari sat behind his desk, going over some paperwork when Eric, clad in his usual semi-military apparel, marched in and casually took up residence on the edge of the desk. He whipped out his ten-inch bladed knife then lackadaisically ran a lone finger along the sharp edge. "About that favor."

The balding man sat upright. "Okay, I owe you one. She gets the fare."

Eric re-sheathed the knife and started to leave. At the door, he turned back to the disgruntled owner and patted his knife against his cheek. "This is just between the three of us."

The owner slouched forward and let out a deep sigh. "Yeah, well…. just remember the expedition… it's supposed to be a first rate job."

A wicked smile accompanied an evil glint in his baby blue eyes. "I'll keep an eye out…. just in case." With that, Eric slipped out the door.

***********************

Relaxing in her first class seat, Chas noticed the stewardess pass by several times. She hesitantly opened the window cover then forced herself to take a peek, seeing the afternoon sky. Quickly, Chas slammed the cover to the window shut. Sucking in several calming breaths, she noticed the stewardess standing next to her when she finally opened her eyes. Chas let out a nervous laugh. "You'd think they could fly these things a little closer to the ground."

Smiling sweetly, the pretty young stewardess asked. "Can I get you anything, Ms. Tucker? Anything to make you more comfortable?"

Swiftly, Chas summoned up all of her charm and patted the aisle seat next to her. "You could sit down for a while."

Looking around quickly, the stewardess slipped into the seat next to Chas. "Now… what can I do for you?"

Charm oozed from the tall dark haired woman. "You're already doin' it, honey. Your nearness alone is a comfort to me."

Feeling a little heady under the sexual gaze Chas was giving her, she cleared her throat. "Guess I should get back now."

Chas gently grabbed her arm. "No…no. Really, I'd feel much better just having someone to talk to."

Flickering her eyes away from the beautiful passenger, the stewardess noticed some of the equipment Chas had in the bag on the floor.

Seeing where the young woman was looking, Chas grabbed the bag, pulling out several gadgets. "Global tracking system." Chas handed it to the pretty stewardess.

Raising an inquisitive eyebrow, the blonde asked. "Are you saying you're hard to keep track of?"

Smiling, Chas gave her another gadget. It was the latest cellular telephone on the market. "With this one, I can keep in communication with anyone… no matter where in the world I am." Cocking her head to the side, she continued. "Like say, if you gave me your number, no matter where I am I could ring you up. You can even get on the internet and send pictures." Chas poured on the charm, laying out a counterfeit sad story of her impending adventure. "Of course, I am going into the darkest part of Africa. I can't really get into the specifics of the mission but…." Chas' face gloomed. "It is dangerous and I may never be heard from again, just like Dr. Livingston."

The stewardess perked up at that last statement. "Really?"

Shrugging, Chas continued. "Yeah, these could be the last few days of my existence…. and it would be nice to savor these last few moments with someone special, say…. you?" Chas moved in to kiss the young woman. Her lips found sweet ones and connected for a tender kiss before the stewardess broke away.

"You are a bad girl, aren't you?" The blonde put some distance between her and the beautiful passenger.

Chas pouted. "Hey, what if I don't come back alive?"

The stewardess handed Chas back her tracking device. "With all the latest gadgets in that pack of yours, I'm sure you'll make it back alive."

Chas gathered up her equipment but offered one last come on line. "Nothing but the best when you're with me."

After the stewardess stood, she looked down at Chas. "And they did find Dr. Livingston…. happily living among the natives."

Dejected, Chas watched the stewardess sashay up the aisle then murmured sarcastically. "Happily living among the natives." It just isn't my day.

***********************

In the posh New York City restaurant, Drake Bullard sat across from his longtime friend and business associate, Davis McDaniels. "You clear your calendar for the trip?"

A man about town with a hint of deviousness to his nature, McDaniels always enjoyed a nice meal with good conversation. However, this day, he had more on his mind then food and wine. "Have I missed even one of your famous African hunting trips? I'm there. What about Chastity, though?"

Poking at the last piece of bloody steak on his plate, Bullard shrugged. "She's on her way now. Why?"

Studying his friend intently, Davis remained aloof regarding his true concerns. "Just a question of trust. She does have an inquisitive nature about her." Davis wasn't thrilled that Chas had drilled him on several recent transactions the company had completed.

Bullard washed down his last bite of steak with a very expensive red wine. "She's my best man. Chastity and I… we're cut from the same cloth… nothin' but the best. I trust my instincts on this one."

The waiter slipped the bill on the table then left so Davis grabbed it, inspecting it casually. "They forgot to charge us for the wine."

Bullard yanked the bill from his friend. Davis scrutinized Bullard's next move as the older man flagged the waiter back to the table. Giving the bill back to the waiter with his credit card, Bullard remained silent until the young man had left. "Seize every opportunity you get, Davis. Seize every opportunity."

Taking one last sip of his wine, Davis agreed. "Right, Bull. So, we bring Chastity in on the whole deal then?"

Bullard joined his friend in savoring the free wine. "In time."

***********************

Ally jumped off the front porch with her gear in hand. Heading for the Land Rover with Kana in tow, she flipped the back door to the vehicle open and tossed in the bag. "About four hours there and back. Should see you around dinnertime."

With a smirk on his face, he pretended to be upset. "I'm the cook now, too?"

Her bottom lip quivered with a mock pout making the young man cave. "Okay, okay."

Ally opened the driver's door then plopped inside. "So what's for dinner?" She winked at Kana and he shot back a teasing frown. Settling in for the long drive, Ally unexpectedly bolted up with a scream. Propelling herself out of the Land Rover, she pointed back through the open door. Scared stiff, Ally backed up further. Anxiously, she rifled her fingers through her blonde locks.

Kana checked the cab seat then floorboard. He spied a small snake and gently reached for it. "He's just a little fella. He won't hurt you."

Standing far away, Ally countered. "But he will bite me."

"Yeah, if you go around scaring him that way." Kana petted the snake. "This one's harmless." He moved away from the vehicle, giving Ally clear access back to her seat.

She perused the area carefully before she slipped back inside. "When you've been bit once, it's more than enough for a lifetime." Finally, she shut the door.

"Well, I've got him now. I'll make sure he finds another home."

"My hero." Ally was genuinely thankful.

Kana shrugged. "Your cheap labor, you mean."

Feeling much more confident now that the snake was no where near her, she teased her friend. "Now, Kana, you're the one who accepted this intern program. When you finally leave and go back to college, it may not be with a lot of money, but the wealth of experience and knowledge you'll get from your stay here will be priceless."

Loving dark eyes glazed over the beautiful blonde, sitting confidently in the vehicle. "You're priceless."

Flashing her handsome but very young friend a brilliant smile, Ally hit the gas pedal.

***********************

In the first class section of a much smaller plane, Chas fumbled with her seatbelt as the airline stewardess prepared for landing. Chas flashed her best smile at the redhead. Looking helplessly at the stewardess, she asked. "Could you help me with this?"

Eager to assist, the redhead sat down next to Chas. "Sure." She adjusted the raven-haired woman's seatbelt, cinching her in tightly.

That's when Chas' arm wrapped around the stewardess. "Now I feel safe."

Pleased about being flirted with, the redhead smiled. "I do need to get back to my seat before we land."

Pleading blue eyes begged. "Stay here with me, please. Just till we're on the ground."

Smiling, the redhead purposely acted as if she would be put out by the request but secretly glowed inside. "Do you always get your way?"

Chas grasped her hand then shrugged confidently as the plane landed safely at the airport.

**********************

After finally arriving at her destination, the impatient Chas waited at the baggage terminal. Finally, she spied one of her bags on the conveyor belt. When she reached for it, the military clothed Eric grabbed her wrist in a predatory grip. With his other hand, he retrieved his own bag. Chas turned to see who had a lock like vise grip around her arm and came eye to eye with Eric. Due to the mirrored sunglasses he was wearing, Chas only saw her own reflection. Slowly, Eric released her wrist. Rubbing the tender area, she reached again for her bag but found that it had traveled half way to the other side of the circular conveyor belt. "Damn."

***********************

Ally whipped her Rover up to the curb, lining it up with several other safari vehicles. Walking briskly over to meet the lead tour guide for Premiere Safari, she noticed some of the other drivers already assisting their passengers into the vehicles and checking their baggage.

The hapless man glanced at Ally. "Running a little late, huh?"

Scanning the area, she asked. "Is she here yet?"

Not looking up from his paperwork, he jerked his head toward the small terminal. "I think her plane just arrived."

"What gate?"

The ruffled tour guide with all his passengers now loaded, stepped into his vehicle. "Sixteen. I know sometimes you pick up an expedition from us when we're overbooked, but how did you get this job? It's cushy and not bad money, either."

Not answering the question, Ally jogged away.

Turning the key to his vehicle, he mumbled. "I'd be glad to only have to put up with one customer than this bunch." Looking at the five teenagers that filled his vehicle not only with hordes of suitcases but irritating giggles and laughter, the frustrated tour guide slammed down on the gas pedal, forcing his clientele back up against their seats.

***********************

Chas walked away from gate number sixteen's entrance after a short attendant pointed in the direction of the main pathway. The short attendant shook her head in disgust. Chas felt like she was a lone salmon traveling upstream against a sea of people. Although the airport was a small one, so was the main pathway. Her display of superior attitude dictated that she maintain a straight path, expecting everyone to step aside. It was the same attitude that propelled her quickly up the corporate ladder.

When a small child bumped into her shoulder bag, Chas swung around sideways. "Hey!" After a bit Chas realigned herself then almost ran smack into an old woman who appeared to be able to take care of herself quite easily. This time Chas lost her balance as she tried to correct herself, she tripped over a piece of luggage left on the floor. The older woman rushed to help Chas up.

"You okay?"

Dusting her brand new freshly ironed safari outfit off, she straightened up. "Yeah, yeah, I'm fine." When Chas realized it was an old woman who had helped her up, she was a bit embarrassed by it. The older woman handed Chas back her bag only to receive a very gruff. "Thanks." Once again, Chas resumed her journey down the busy pathway.

***********************

In a rush yet with finesse, Ally negotiated the corridor on her way to Gate 16. She stopped to help a young mother when her very small child got caught upon in the mix of several travelers. Ally came up behind the child, grabbed his hands and acting like a caboose guided him back to the safe arms of his mother. Smiling, the young mother thanked Ally as she embraced her wayward son. Quickly, Ally was back on track to her original destination. She was wearing a dark green White Elephant Safari polo shirt that matched her emerald eyes and her khaki shorts were a bit ruffled from the long drive.

As she continued on, there was a large luggage rack that passed in front of her, stopping Ally in her tracks. When the pathway was clear again, Ally slammed right into Chas, knocking both of them back. Chas lost her bags and hit the floor again while Ally maintained her equilibrium but just barely. She had to jump up and over a large suitcase in order to keep her standing position. Upon seeing Chas laid out on the floor, Ally offered her hand to help the fallen woman up.

"I'm sorry I…."

Chas pushed Ally away forcibly then got up and retrieved her bags. "Forget it. Just watch where you're going next time."

"Hey, you bumped into me." Ally didn't like the way the taller woman placed all the blame on her.

Smoothing out her pants, Chas glared at the younger woman. "I don't have time to argue. Now… if you'll excuse me." Chas pushed past the shorter woman.

Put out, Ally spat. "What's your problem?"

As anger flared in her burning blue eyes, Chas turned back around toward Ally. "I have more important things to do than stand here and debate with you about whose problem it really is."

"Oh, really." Ally cocked her hands on her hips. "For your information, I have important things to do, too. As a matter of fact, I have a very important person I need to meet and I'm sure she is waiting for me now."

With an eyebrow cocked and ready, Chas asked. "Really?" Then scrutinized the younger woman's crumpled clothes. "I, myself, have a very important person to meet and at least I'm dressed for it." Sharply turning around, Chas marched away.

Fuming, Ally shot back at the obstinate woman. "At least my backside isn't covered in dirt."

Refusing to turn and face the irritating woman behind her, Chas paused briefly then proceeded on her journey while Ally spun around and took off in the opposite direction.

************************
Ally approached the gate desk where two attendants were engaging in a conversation. She waited until they looked up. "Did a woman by the name of Chastity Tucker come in on that plane?"

The taller attendant checked her list. "Let me see."

Overhearing the question about one of their passengers, the short attendant looked at the list, too. "Yes, she did."

The blonde tour guide searched the gate area for her passenger. "You don't happen to know where she is, do you?"

The tall attendant looked down at the shorter one then shrugged.

Scratching her neck, the shorter attendant asked with a smirk. "Was she tall, dark and rude?"

A deep sigh escaped the blonde. "God, I hope not. I just ran into one of those." Frustrated, Ally ran her fingers through her hair then headed back in the direction that she came.

************************

Chas threw down one of her bags yet kept the other one hiked up over her shoulder. "What do you mean you don't have my reservation?

The owner of Premiere Safari held up his hands. "Ma'am, I didn't say we didn't have your reservation. We just had to book you with another outfit."

"What?" Chas demanded an explanation to the change in plans.

In a hurry to soothe the unhappy customer, he offered an apology first. "I'm sorry but it's okay. Everything is set. You won't even know the difference."

Pursing her lips tightly together, Chas glared at the now timid man. "You do know who set this little expedition up, don't you?"

"Yes, ma'am. Mr. Bullard has done business with us for years now."

Drumming her fingers on the counter, Chas threatened the man's livelihood. "Then if you continue to expect doing business with Mr. Bullard…. you better fix this. Now!"

The relieved owner saw Ally scurrying toward them. "Oh, no problem. Here she is now. Ally, I'd like you to meet Chastity….

"Tucker. We've met." Ally forced her best smile on her face before sliding her hand through her sun-bleached hair quickly then extended it to Chas. "Welcome to White Elephant Safari."

Chas slipped the bag off her shoulder and dropped it in Ally's outreached hand. Ally's forced smile faded into one of extreme aggravation though the taller woman countered with a sweet smile for the tour guide. Turning back to the owner, Chas calmly announced. "Mr. Bullard will hear about this."

"Oh, don't worry." The owner was quick to reassure the employee of his most valued client. "Everything will be first rate. I can assure you…." He looked nervously at Ally when Chas spun around, away from him.

Glaring at the blonde, Chas smirked. "So.. am I to understand that I'm the very important person you were rushing to meet… when you slammed into me."

Stifling the words she would love to say, Ally opted for another tactic, a little more subtle, but just as curt. "Yes, just as important as the person you were rushing to meet when you…." Glee shot out of her green eyes. "… took that nasty tumble."

Crossing her arms, Chas clarified their roles in the incident. "Might I remind you it was your fault?"

Ally was quick to correct the tall woman and offered a compromise. "Both our faults. But may I remind you that when all was said and done… I was the only one left standing." She added with a triumphant smile.

The twinkle in Ally's eye goaded Chas mercilessly. When Chas moved in very close to the shorter woman, Ally's smile faded. "Let's get one thing clear here. I'm the client and you work for me…. I expect nothing but the best… you got that."

Snapping to attention, Ally nearly saluted. "Oh, yes sir." Ice daggers came charging from cold blue eyes, slicing into the blonde, prompting the revision. "Ma'am."

With her foot, Chas shoved her bag across the floor toward the blonde tour guide. Turning, the executive stormed off without another word.

Softly, Ally said in defiance. "And I ain't nothin' but the very best." Ally noticed a slight catch in Chas' step after she spoke. However, apparently Chas choose to ignore the comment… for now. Smiling, Ally picked up the last bag and followed her client.

Chapter Three

Ally negotiated the Land Rover down the uneven road, trying to miss the small gullies and potholes that were inherent to the backwoods of Africa. However, Chas threw the tour guide a knowing glare, indicating that Ally hadn't missed one pothole yet. Both weary women were doing their best to tolerate the ride and the tension between them.

"So, I know I'm supposed to show you some remote sites here in Tanzania, but…. well, what kinda place you got in mind?" As a professional, Ally deliberately decided to make amends for their unfortunate first encounter.

Gazing out at the wide expanse of the land, Chas replied. "My company is building a resort here."

Excited at the prospect of future business, Ally suggested. "Well, then you'll need a place closer to Dars. With the roads the way…."

Chas quickly cut the younger woman off. "No. This will be one of the finest resorts in the world…" Shifting a glance at the blonde, Chas enunciated. "Exclusive clientele."

"You'll still need good roads to get them back and forth." Ally wasn't about to let her expertise in the matter go unheeded.

"This…. our resort will cater to the ultra rich. It'll have its own landing field and all the amenities that come with it. It isn't going to be one of your usual run of the mill safari adventures."

Ally watched Chas brush the invisible lint on her pressed pants then proceeded with a lively pitch to the client. "So, you'll be needing an outfit to cater to your clients and…. well, we at White Elephant Safari specialize in the… unusual."

Chas stared at Ally for a moment causing the tour guide to shift uneasily under the client's scrutiny. As always when nervous, Ally fiddled with a lock of her hair. Finally, Chas said in no uncertain terms. "Not that unusual."

A grim smile crossed the blonde's face. "Only three more hours and we'll be at the compound."

Chas' attention was drawn to a large herd of gazelle off to the left. Ally returned her eyes to the path with the devious intent of hitting a few potholes located on the passenger's side of the road.

*************************

Ally draped a large map over the table then Chas leaned closer, studying the diagram. Ally pointed to a location on the chart. "Here. This might be a good place to start. It has plenty of open land and….."

Pointing to another location on the chart, Chas said. "This place. What about here?"

Ally shook her head in question. "That's rugged. Definitely no way in except by air or… boat. See there's a river that comes close to it. But it's not the easiest to negotiate."

Cocking her hands on her hips, Chas straightened up. "I'm not looking for something simple. Some of our clients will want a 'real' African safari experience."

Ally's finger circled around the area in question. "This river runs through most of that section… and there's a small lake at the bottom of this mountain."

Excited, Chas scooted closer to the blonde. "Good… good. What about the jungle? Is it close?"

Scratching her chin, Ally nodded. "Yeah, well, within driving range. Of course, you'll need to carve a few roads of your own… or backpack your way in."

Smiling, Chas made a decision. "Then that's it. When do we get going?"

The young handsome Kana walked in the open quarters from the kitchen. "The dishes are done. You need anything else?"

Having decided upon the area of exploration, Ally folded the map. "Could you top off the tank in the Rover? Chassie here and I will…."

"Chastity!" The taller woman corrected Ally.

Ally smiled as sweetly as she could when she repeated her client's name. "Chastity… and I will be leaving first thing in the morning for a day trip."

Saluting his boss, Kana assured Ally. "Sure thing. It'll be ready."

Concerned blue eyes looked at the blonde. "How early? And it seems to me it will take more than a day to get there."

"Bright and early. Actually, come to think of it… dark and early." Grabbing the keys to the Rover, hanging on the roll top desk, Kana smiled. "She gets up well before the sun so I'll get everything ready for you tonight."

Ally patted Kana's back as he passed by her then he headed out the front door. "Good man." She turned to her client. "I thought we'd get an aerial view first then head in… it should take about a week to get there."

Chas gulped upon hearing the news. "You mean from the air?"

Shrugging, Ally said. "Yeah."

Fidgeting, Chas continued. "That would require a plane."

"Or a helicopter, but in our case a little Cessna works nicely. Why?" Ally pushed her swivel chair out of the way so she could search for a few extra maps of certain areas.

Chas mumbled. "I don't like planes."

Twisting around, Ally studied the tall woman for a moment. "Then how'd you get here? Ya flew, didn't ya?"

Squinting her eyes, Chas explained what seemed obvious to her. "They're much bigger. Solid. Not some piece of metal held together only with a few bolts and a wind-up engine." Clearly uncomfortable, Chas suggested. "Maybe you could just take some pictures and bring them back."

A knowing smile bloomed on the blonde's face. "Ahhh…. You're afraid of heights."

Straightening up, Chas glared at the shorter woman. "I am not afraid of anything."

Having found a weakness in Chas' armor, Ally couldn't help herself and she intended to toy with the smug dark haired woman every chance she got. "Don't worry. We'll have the best pilot in the business flying us and if you want, I'll even hold your hand…." Waggling her light eyebrows, Ally continued. "It's not usually part of the standard service… but in your case… I'll make an exception."

Unwilling to discuss the issue further, Chas twisted around sharply, heading toward a closed door. In somewhat a state of confusion, she stopped when she realized she didn't know where her bedroom was located.

Seeing her client's bewilderment, the tour guide did what she did best, giving Chas the needed directions. "The other way. Down the hall, first door on the right."

Unhappy to receive help from her smart aleck guide, Chas barely listened to the direction and turned left.

"Your other left." Ally barely held in a giggle.

Fuming, Chas made a U-turn and stomped toward the blonde. "I expect professional service from you and that includes a civil tongue."

Ally snapped to attention after Chas passed by. "Yes, sir.. ma'am…. whatever." The blonde stuck her tongue out at Chas' back as the fuming executive made her way down the long hall.

Mumbling, Chas announced. "The sooner I get back to civilization the better."

************************

Kana slammed the hatch on the Land Rover as Ally and Chas stepped off the ten-foot wide porch. "Ally, I packed a tent and some other gear just in case.. you know."

Chas, who had been dragging behind Ally, wiping the sleep out of her eyes, perked up when she heard Kana's comment. "What do you mean 'you know'? In case what?"

The young man walked closer to Chas. "In case, you put down somewhere, get stuck in the mud or whatever."

Her eyes widen with every word spoken by the intern. "Put down somewhere?"

Shaking his head knowingly, Kana explained. "First thing I learned about the wilds of Africa is that you have to be prepared."

Wanting to get an early start, Ally tugged on Chas' arm and directed her to the vehicle. "Come on, Chassie, nothing's gonna happen. Quick trip there and back. We'll have you back tonight safe and sound." The guide opened the door for Chas and deposited the despondant woman in her seat.

With Chas' mind still a bit foggy from the early morning hour and the news of impending danger, weakly she corrected the blonde. "Chastity." Then Chas noticed several rifles in the vehicle. One was secured to the roof above them. The other one was located between the driver's seat and her seat, pointing up to the roof. She became even more concerned when she finally studied the blonde. Ally was sporting a handgun, strapped at the waist, tucked in a cross-drawn holster. On the right side of the guide's waist was what appeared to be an eight-inch knife secured in a sheath. "What in God's name are you doing with all this artillery?"

Offering only a smile, Ally hit the gas pedal, forcing Chas back up against her seat. Kana yelled at them as he waved goodbye. "I'll just stay here and keep scoutin' for those poachers." Now mumbling to himself, he continued. "Right after I get a few more hours of sleep."

That last comment about the poachers did not go unnoticed by the now very concerned Chas.

*************************

Ally pulled the vehicle to a halt near a zebra striped Cessna airplane. Apart from the plane, the place seemed deserted. They got out of the Rover then Ally opened the hatch and began sorting through some of the gear. Chas watched her closely. "You gonna fly that thing?"

"No… but I could." She withdrew a small pack and handed it to Chas. "Here hold this."

Pointing at a particular bag, Chas said. "Oh, I need my digital camera."

Climbing up on the bumper, Ally said. "Right."

Chas returned her attention to the small plane while Ally searched for the camera. Slowly, the side door of the plane flipped down. Out into the bright sunlight stepped Eric. He was armed to the teeth. He had a rifle slung over his right shoulder with a shoulder holster, packing a handgun under each arm. Chas noticed a knife strapped to Eric's side that was at least twice the size of the one that Ally was carrying. In suspended trepidation, Chas watched the menacing man as he flipped off his sunglasses and took the last step to the ground. That's when Chas could clearly see a two-inch scar along his left eye. Eric directed a sharp stare at Chas that penetrated her normally strong veneer. When he started to walk toward them, Chas nudged Ally. "Al… Ally, you know this guy, right?"

Ally turned around and met Eric's intense gaze. She took a few brazen strides toward him then halted. Eric stopped, positioning himself in a defensive posture. He retrieved a bullet from his waistband, holding it so they could plainly see it. "What's the BC?"

Without hesitation, Ally answered. "It's the ballistic co-efficient. It takes into consideration the length, width and hole silhouette of the bullet itself to determine how fast and how flat it's gonna shoot."

A furtive smile cropped across Eric's face at a snail's pace. Finally, Eric stretched his arms out wide. "Come here."

Covering the short distance, Ally hugged him. "Hey, cowboy."

After their embrace, Eric nodded toward Chas. "Who you got there?"

Knowing it would irritate Chas, Ally tried out a few new twists to Chas' formal name. "Chassie, Charlie…. Chuck…."

Casting the guide an evil glare, Chas asserted herself before Ally continued. "Chastity Tucker with Bullard Enterprises." Eric met Chas' extended hand and nodded. Thinking that the man seemed familiar, Chas asked. "Have we met?"

Baby blue eyes scoped Chas' long feminine frame slowly. "I'm sure I woulda remembered." Swinging his arm around Ally's shoulder, he headed to the plane. "So, where we goin' today?"

After the airplane was loaded with a few bags that belonged to Chas and Ally, the cowboy rolled the plane down the open field and took off. When the pilot finally leveled the plane, Chas eyed all the armaments located throughout the plane. Sitting next to her was a western saddle. She thought about running her hand along the soft and seemingly supple leather but her white knuckled grip on the arms of her seat remained firmly intact.

"Why are you interested in that particular area, Charlie?" The pilot asked casually.

"Chastity. And I'm looking for a place to build a resort." Chas tried to keep her eyes glued to the back of the seat in front of her and not look out the window.

The pilot offered a questioning look at the blonde sitting next to him.

She shrugged. "It will cater to only the finest people….the harder the place to is to get to… you know, keeps away all the riff-raff."

Chas felt inclined to defend her company's position. "We're just looking for a place that will give our clientele the true flavor of Africa… not a tourist trap."

When Eric dipped the plane down lower near a heard of wildebeests, Chas tried to remain upright in her seat. "Hey, can't you keep this thing level."

Grinning, the pilot offered in the way of an apology. "Just thought you'd like a view."

Ally watched Chas shift around uncomfortably in her seat while her client intentionally avoided looking out the window.

Finally, Eric leveled the plane off. "I know a few other places that should be perfect for what ya need."

Shaking her head, Chas declined the offer. "No. My boss is interested in this particular section."

Unhappy with that news, Eric guided the plane south. The airplane crossed the African countryside as it followed the path of the river below them, headed in the direction of a mountain located off in the distance. After about twenty minutes of flying, Eric dropped the plane lower for a closer look.

Nodding at her client, Ally informed Chas. "We're on the outer edge of it now. See where the river splits…. just on the other side."

Forcing herself to look out the window, Chas snapped a few shots of the ground below with her camera. Ally smiled at Chas' reluctance to look out the window. For some of the shots, the very frazzled Chas just held the camera close to the window and pressed the button.

Suddenly, a voice of a dispatcher came over the radio. "Ranger one? Come in."

Eric snatched up the microphone. "Ranger one. Go ahead."

"We got reports of some activity located over the Pesa region. Since you're in that area, how bout a look see?"

"Will do. Ranger one out." Eric replaced the microphone to its hook.

The unknown dispatcher ended the transmission. "Charlie one out."

Quite annoyed, Chas swung her head in Eric's direction. "Chastity!"

Looking at each other, Ally and Eric stifled a laugh. And that's when Chas realized it was the dispatcher's code name on the radio. "Sorry."

Informing Ally and her client about the sudden change of plans, Eric explained. "We'll have to cut this short." He negotiated the plane deeper into the southern African territory.

Ally turned her attention to her client to ward off Chas' apparent concern. "Poachers. Looks like we get a side trip."

Eric drove the plane higher then leveled off. He continued to fly for another fifteen minutes before dropping it again to a lower altitude. With the plane at a slight downward incline, Eric passed over a charred wooded area. He turned the plane around for another pass. Chas ventured a look as did the pilot and Ally who studied the area closely. Clearly on the ground were remnants of a camp apparently left in disarray. Most of the ground was black with a few pieces of camping equipment strung haphazardly about. It appeared to Chas that someone may have left in a hurry. Eric retrieved the radio's microphone. "Ranger one to base."

"Go ahead, Ranger one."

"Sorry, nothing on this end." Eric gave the all clear on the radio.

"All clear, huh?" The dispatcher clarified.

"Yep, looks like another false lead. Ranger one out."

"Thanks for the look. Charlie one out."

Chas studied the pilot for a moment, not quite certain why he didn't report what they had seen. Chas decided to remain silent for now. After all, it was none of her business and she was intent on finding the perfect location for the resort and leaving Africa as soon as possible. She didn't want any complications.

After a few moments when Eric noticed Chas was preoccupied with something in one of her bags, he leaned closer to Ally. "Do me a favor and keep her out of the Mbaya area. There's a real nice spot bout a hundred miles north. Well, you know the place."

"Sure, but…"

Shifting his blue eyes at her in a 'don't go there' look, Ally nodded.

After another hour of flying, Eric brought the plane in for a safe landing. Once the pilot unloaded his passengers and their gear, he took off again. Leaving Ally and Chas standing near their vehicle, the blonde grabbed a device Chas had been fiddling with. "What'cha got there?"

"Global tracking device."

Ally flipped it over a couple of times then handed it back to Chas before teasing her client. "So… where are we?"

Chas completely ignored Ally as she stepped around to her side of the vehicle and got inside. After Ally started the Rover, Chas nodded at the plane in the sky, which appeared to be quite small now. The executive ventured to satisfy her growing curiosity. "I don't trust him. There was clearly some kind of activity down in that camp. Who is he anyway?"

Ally rifled through Chas' vest, joking with her client. "Maybe you got a gadget in there that will find that out as well."

Fighting the octopus hands, Chas pushed Ally away. "Get your hands off me."

Laughing, the blonde smiled. "Come on. You worry too much."

Chas watched Ally head back to the vehicle. "I do not." She pouted.

Chapter Four

Lying on the couch, Kana was playing with the global tracking device while Chas was on the telephone standing directly behind the young man. Chas noticed Kana and ripped the device from his hands, shaking her head in frustration. Kana reluctantly got up to see what Ally was up to at her desk. "Is she always so possessive?"

Ally glanced at Chas and saw the dark haired woman flip the device around in her hand as she talked on the telephone. "She likes her toys." Ally returned to the papers in front of her. Kana watched as his boss sighed deeply before redirecting her attention back to him. "Be nice… okay? If that resort goes through, we could get some much needed business. These bills aren't playing themselves." Ally flipped the loose bills up in the air in frustration. "Everything ready for tomorrow?"

He leaned up against the side of the desk. "Yeah." Spying the client making her way toward them, he whispered. "Here she comes. See ya later."

Ally swatted at his behind. "Thanks." Turning her full attention to Chas, she asked. "So, what's up?"

"Just checking in with my boss."

Ally stood up. "We gotta big trip tomorrow so I guess I'll hit the sheets. Maybe you should to."

"Will we get breakfast this time… before we take off?" Chas demanded.

Shrugging, Ally said as she walked past Chas. "We'll eat on the road. Gotta get up early."

As Ally headed off to her room, Chas remembered the ungodly hour they had gotten up that day and yelled after her. "Is that early for you or early for me?"

************************

Ally and Chas were driving over a well-traveled dirt road as they traversed through one of Africa's Reserves. Ally pointed to several different types of animals so Chas took the opportunity to snap a few candid shots with her camera. When Ally stopped her vehicle near an elephant herd, Chas stood up through the ample sunroof and took a couple of pictures of an elephant cow and her off-spring. "Wow! They're really big… and did you see that baby? Huge little guy."

After Chas settled back into her seat, Ally pulled out slowly. "Yeah, they're my favorites."

With mock surprise in her voice, Chas laughed. "No! Really? White Elephant Safari. I would've never guessed. They're not white though. What's up with that?"

"A white elephant represents prestige, authority and legitimacy. Powerful creatures." It was quite obvious that Ally spoke in respected awe of her beloved favorite animal.

"White Elephant? That's just a myth though." Chas remembered watching some documentary on elephants in Africa and Asia. She couldn't quite remember the differences between them.

Shaking her head adamantly, Ally said seriously. "The white elephant is not the stuff of myths, legends and fairy tales. They used to play a central role in the daily lives of people… mostly in Asia."

"So… they're here in Africa?" Chas was actually showing some interest in the subject.

"Who knows? It's still believed that they exist in the wild." Ally was a true believer but it was a touchy subject for her.

Pondering something she had heard from that documentary, Chas finally said. "There is a myth about something white…. and it had to do with elephants."

Ally knew exactly to what Chas was referring to. "You're talking about white gold."

"What's that?"

"Elephant tusks." The image in her head was disturbing but she continued. "The myth is that when elephants die, they go to a mass graveyard… that has never been located…" Ally looked at Chas for emphasis before she continued. "And if anyone would ever find it… well, with all the ivory there, a person would be rich beyond their dreams."

"A myth, huh?" That illusive thought took root in her mind.

"Some people believe it exists."

Silence reigned for few long moments as each woman mulled over the so-called myth until it was broken by a loud hunger sound emitting from Chas' stomach. "Is it time to eat yet?"

Ally wielded the vehicle though the rough terrain to a nice clearing near the small lake. There were several animals milling around the water and a flock of birds flew overhead, swooping through the sky. "This place do?"

Hunting through the food pack, Chas finally retrieved two sandwiches then handed one to Ally. Chas reached for the door handle when Ally suggested. "You might want to stay inside."

Surprised because it was a beautiful day and Chas was tired of being cooped up in the Rover all day, she asked. "You're not getting out?"

"No, not right now… after I eat maybe."

"What's the matter… oh, great white hunter afraid?" Chas relaxed enough to tease her blonde guide then she pushed her door open.

Ally tried to warn her client. "With your food it's better to stay…."

But Chas ignored her, jumping out of the vehicle and with one long leg up, she hopped up on the hood of the Rover. Chas took a big bite of her sandwich. Turning around to Ally who remained safely in the vehicle, Chas waggled her eyebrows and smiled. "Great view out here."

All Ally could do was shake her head. "Live and learn. I did try to warn her."

Getting into the spirit of her great African adventure, Chas soaked in the atmosphere before noticing the flying creatures overhead. "Hey, look at those birds. Man, see that wing span. Oh, this is great." Chas relaxed even more, contently watching the animals and enjoying her food. Again, Chas threw her guide a big smile. When she turned back around and opened her mouth for another big bite of her delicious sandwich, suddenly one of the birds swooped down, snatching the sandwich from her hand. Wide eyes stared at her empty hand for a few moments, then she looked up to the escaping bird. Abruptly, Chas leaped from the hood, jumping back inside the safety of the vehicle. Crossing her arms, Chas warned the amused blonde. "Not a word. Not one word."

But Ally let out a small laugh.

Scolding her guide, Chas spewed out her angry tirade. "You know, you could have warned me. I mean… it's not like I'm not paying you… oh, sure you take the time to explain to me about all these myths of Africa but the things I really need to know… for some reason you keep them a secret from me. You get some kind of little kick out of it… tormenting me."

Ally let the upset woman ramble a while before she finally asked. "You ready to go yet?"

Straightening to a ramrod position, Chas tried to project total confidence as she said fiercely. "I was born ready."

************************

Ally got out of the Land Rover while Chas stubbornly stayed inside. The dark haired woman cautiously scanned the surrounding area outside her window. Ally made a quick check around the grounds then opened the back hatch to the vehicle and grabbed some equipment. "You getting out?"

Crossing her arms for further emphasis, Chas spat out. "Not if you have any more surprises for me."

Slinging the bag over her shoulder, she said. "We'll camp here tonight. It's safe…..." Ally chuckled before she finished. "No swooping bird here."

The sarcastic glare Chas shot at her definitely posted the strong message that her client did not trust her reassurance. So, Ally started to construct the tent while Chas reluctantly and with great care eased out of the vehicle. "Maybe I could just sleep in the vehicle."

Anchoring the security lines to the tent, Ally shrugged. "Suit yourself. But the cots in the tent will be much more comfortable." Ally spared a glance as Chas emerged completely from the vehicle. She continued to watch her client walk over to her and grab one of the tent lines. "Oh, you might want to tuck the bottom of your pant legs in your boots."

Chas pondered Ally's suggestion for a long moment as she studied her brand new boots. "Why? These boots are the best money can buy. They go half way up my calves."

"I'm sure the boots are fine. It's just…."

Thinking Ally was making fun of the items she had carefully selected for the trip, Chas threw up a halting hand. "I do know some things about camping. I don't need you to mother me and tell me how to dress." Feeling insulted, Chas rambled on, directing her guide about what kind of information she would require. "Just keeping me informed of certain animal behaviors is all the kind of advice I will need from you. Got it?"

Ally pounded the last stake in the ground. "Fine by me."

As they completed the finishing touches to setting up camp, both women remained silent.

***********************

As Ally and Chas lay quietly in their tent under the African moon, the dark haired woman contemplated the blonde lying next to her. For all the bickering and bantering back and forth, Chas found Ally attractive and irresistible in a natural way unlike the women of New York that she usually favored. Chas lifted her finger to trace the smooth skin on the blonde's face.

Ally turned slightly toward the dark haired executive who was taking liberties that were always welcomed when given in the past but this time Chas reserved some doubts about what the guide would accept.

Yet, the irresistible urge to find out pulled at her, challenging her to seduce this woman she found fascinating and irritating all at the same time. "Ally?" Chas ran her finger along side the blonde's cheek and down her throat. "Ally."

"Mmm…." The blonde stretched yet was still very drowsy.

Chas scooted closer to those magnetic lips that called to her. "I was wondering… well, I was…"

A green eye popped open. "Yes?"

Chas smiled, hoping that the blonde would agree to what she had in mind. After all, Chas figured even out in the most remote place in the world, she could still have a good time. "Those limbs out in the bush sure did a number on me. I've places that are scratched pretty bad and…." Chas ducked her head closer. ".. places that, well, could use a good scratching."

"Really?" Suddenly, the blonde was on full alert. "You got an itch that needs attention, huh?"

"Yeah, and, actually, I could use a massage." Chas waggled her eyebrows. "If you wouldn't mind."

Suspicious of her client's request, Ally sat up. "Uh huh. Exactly where do you need this massage?"

Smiling, Chas unsnapped the button. "In my pants…"

"Your pants, huh?"

"Yeah." Chas grinned, yanking the zipper down.

"You got something in your pants you want me to take care of?"

Chas shrugged. "And then I could take care of you." Licking her lips, Chas ventured further. "If you know what I mean."

"Oh, I know what you mean alright." Ally scooted away from the dark haired woman.

Sensing she was losing her quarry, Chas nearly begged. "Come on, you gotta see this. Really?" In all actuality, Chas did have a nasty scratch on her thigh but the frustration this woman lying next to her was giving the executive was unbearable. When the blonde just turned away, Chas slumped back down and mumbled. "This just hasn't been my week."

Upon hearing Chas' words, Ally smiled and sensed victory was at hand for her.

************************

The blonde crouched down, moving stealthy through the bush with Chas close behind her. "Shhh….." They moved near the river's edge where several hippos were bathing in the river. Ally noticed a lion making a low creeping approach toward his next intended meal. But her attention was soon distracted when she felt Chas twitching around behind her. She turned to see Chas shaking her leg wildly. Pursing her lips together, Ally finally made her own commentary on what she saw and heard. "You're as quiet as a stampede." But Ally astutely saw that Chas was miserable as she thrashed around. "What's going on with you?"

Now lying on the ground, Chas' leg was up in the air, shaking frantically. "Something's in my pants."

Ally leaned back on her heels and stifled a small laugh. "Yeah, I bet there is. Is that the same little game you tired to play last night?

"No! Really. There's something in my pants." Last night while they camped, Chas felt the irresistible urge to pull the admittedly beautiful blonde in her arms and tame her. What started out as her intended seduction of the blonde turned into a hellish nightmare of rejection.

Feeling sorry for her client, Ally pushed Chas' leg down and pulled her pants off. Abruptly, Chas stood while Ally flipped the older woman's pants in the air a couple of times. A tiny little lizard flew out of them. She shoved Chas' pants back at her. "Here." Then with a smirk she added. "Guess I win."

Chas cocked a questioning eyebrow.

"Oh, you know the bet you made to yourself about who would get the other ones pants off first." Smiling sweetly at Chas, Ally winked before she turned around.

Hurriedly, Chas jumped in her pants then resumed her position behind Ally. Referring to her sexual advances on the small blonde the night before, Chas denied the game. "I was just going to give you what you wanted." The executive wondered how Ally knew about her secret bet with herself.

"Yeah, right." Ally glared down at the bottom of Chas' pant leg.

Chas followed her line of sight, seeing the pant legs still open. Chas plopped down on the ground, quickly stuffing her pant legs in her boots.

"Come on. You gotta see this."

Chas followed but couldn't stop herself from saying. "That's what I said last night and it didn't get me anywhere." As they moved closer to the river, Chas mulled over her unexpected attraction toward the little blonde. She watched the blonde's backside sway back and forth in front of her and smiled. "Nice." Lost in her own sexual musings, Chas bumped into Ally when her guide stopped suddenly.

Ally pointed at the lion and hippos not more than fifty feet from where they took up their observation position. One of the hippos was posed in a threatening stance directly in front of the lion.

"What's he doing? That lion will take him out for sure." Chas was confident of who would be the victor should a battle ensue.

Placing a hand on Chas' arm, Ally cautioned. "Just wait."

The lion lunged forward several times but was hesitant to strike as the hippo moved slowly toward it. Several moments went by with each animal making threatening overtures to each other. Even as the lion's hunger was still unabated, he finally withdrew. Glancing back to the hippo several times, the lion trekked away in search of another potential meal.

Shaking her head, Chas was bewildered. "I don't get it."

"Three tons of hippo versus three hundred pounds of lion… as ferocious as they are… is no match at times." They both sat back and tried to relax, watching the animals go about their daily business of survival in the wilds.

Nodding, Chas confirmed what she thought. "Survival of the fittest. I understand. Only the strong survive." That drew Ally's full attention. "I know. I know. But New York can be a jungle, too. I wasn't born into the elite. Strictly lower class, but with enough desire and right motivation, I made my way up."
Ally's tongue ran across her teeth. "Did you leave anybody in your wake?"

"Listen…." Chas tried to justify her actions. "Some people are just weak. They don't have what it takes. You gotta get that edge and use it."

"At all costs?"

Chas held up a protesting hand. "I know what you're thinking. But great things have been discovered and made possible by great people. Sometimes, you have to tread over a few things… I understand the difference between predator and prey… and I'm not gonna be anyone's prey."

"And when the prey are up against the predator's technological advances. That's okay?" Ally had begun to slowly like the nearly irascible woman but their philosophical differences had to be sorted out.

"What do you mean?"

Stretching her legs out, Ally sat back and let out a deep sigh. "Take elephants, for example. Even with the ban on ivory, the demand is high and very lucrative. They'd use anything to attain it. And the people who desire it don't care about the animal itself."

Chas wanted to be sympathetic to the blonde's obvious concern but she had played the game too long and knew the rules, even as unfair as some were, remained in place for a reason. "Honey, there are still tons of ivory stored in China and other places. What do you want them to do? Burn it? And what about that elephant graveyard…"

That comment rankled Ally enough so that Chas received an angry glaring look. "What about it?"

"So! Who cares if they find it and take the ivory? The animal is dead." The logic behind Chas' assertion formulated the very core of her beliefs as she skyrocketed up that golden ladder of success.

"As I said, it's a myth. But it doesn't stop there. People will do anything for money… poachers slaughter elephants just for their tusks and leave their carcass to rot." Ally was near the boiling point so she sucked in a calming breath. Trying to reason with Chas, she continued. "Over half the elephant population was wiped out in the seventies in seven short years."

"It's called survival of the fittest." Chas countered.

"Survival of the more technologically advanced.. you mean." Ally decided to try another tact to get the stubborn dark haired woman to understand her reasoning. "There's a book by Richard Carrington. It says 'the evolution of the human consciousness is gradually leading to a greater understanding of certain fundamental truths. One of these is that a compassionate interest in the welfare of animals less advanced in the evolutionary scale than ourselves is an essential component in the character of the truly civilized man….. accepted by all thinking people as a simple and unassailable criterion of spiritual maturity." Ally paused briefly in order to look directly in to Chas' impossibly blue eyes. "For great people, it's about preservation… not exploitation."

"And you memorized all of that." Chas quipped but quickly met glaring green eyes. "Okay… okay. So you think I…. our resort would be exploiting the animals."

"There certainly are some people who just look at these beautiful creatures as something to be put on exhibit for their own pleasures." A small smile found its way to Ally's face. "It's funny… in an odd sort of way. Here in Africa, as a tourist, the people are caged in their vehicles… so to speak… it's like the animals are the ones viewing us instead of like the zoos back home where the animal is caged. The reverse effect. Kinda ironic, huh?" Placing a gentle hand on Chas' arm, Ally continued. "This is the best way to see them… in their natural habitats. It's this pristine country and its animals that are the heart of Africa. The very thing I want to preserve."

Feeling that Ally and her company's interest were stewing in the same pot, Chas said sarcastically. "You certainly profit from them."

"Yeah, I do. But I'm also very respectful that this is their home… and they allow me to share it."

Cocking a disbelieving eyebrow, Chas asked. "So you respect all animals?"

"Yeah…. " Ally said then amended her statement after thinking a moment. "Except hyenas. I hate hyenas… they are ugly sneaking cowards…." The slanted glance Ally gave Chas made her wonder if Ally was really talking about her, the hyenas or both of them. "They never show the spirit of a good clean honest fight." Tired of sitting and the debate, Ally jumped up. "Let's go, daylights burning."

Left to mull over Ally's thought provoking words, Chas followed the blonde through the bush and back to their vehicle.

*************************

Eric's fingers poked at the buttons on the keyboard, finally hitting the return key. When the computer screen displayed the Interpol Database, Eric slowly typed in several more characters on the keyboard. His hunt and peck motion was slow but determined. When the telephone rang, he grabbed it. "Yeah?" Eric listened for a minute or two. "I'm on my way… but they're just the minnows. Remember, I want the big fish." When a picture popped up on the screen, a feral smile crossed Eric's face.

*************************

Chas watched Ally diligently sharpening her machete as they sat by the fire. She glanced at Ally several times with a bored look on her face. Finally, Chas pulled out her cell phone from her vest pocket. She punched in several characters, making individual noises as she did. In frustration, Ally cast glaring green eyes at Chas. Chas recognized the dismay in them easily. "What? I'm not disturbing you."

In a placid tone, Ally said. "Your mere presence disturbs me."

Chas grinned.

They both went back to fiddling with their respective projects, stealing curious glances at each other in a flirtatious dance.



Chapter Five

Bullard stretched out in his swivel chair, watching Davis pace around the magnificent office.

"I don't like it I tell you." Davis stopped only long enough to assert his gut feelings.

"Me neither." Bullard had to agree.

With that admission from his friend, Davis stood in front of Bullard's desk and leaned on it. "So… what are we gonna do, Bull?"

Bullard bolted upright bringing with his sudden movement a huge devious smile, breaking gleefully across his face. "Here's the plan…."

***********************

As Ally and Chas traversed through the thick bush, the blonde occasionally swung her machete at branches that were impeding their advancement. Unused to this sort of hiking, Chas struggled to maintain the pace.

"It's hot." Chas complained.

"No, it's not."

"It's sticky." A limb swatted the dark haired woman across the face.

"No, it's not."

"Can we rest a minute?" The executive whined.

"No!"

"I'm not going any farther." Chas slumped down on the fallen limb, leaning back against a tree that was surrounded by foliage.

"Yes, you are." Ally stared at the tired woman then nodded at something directly behind Chas.

Chas peeked around, seeing a rat-size elephant shrew nibbling at her collar, she jumped up and grabbed Ally's machete, hacking away at the limbs in front of her. "Let's rock."

The blonde guide let out a full belly laugh and took a long moment to eye the well shaped backside of her client.

***********************

When Ally finished putting the cleaned dishes back in the pack, she then casually lounged back against a nearby tree. After Chas gathered some equipment and her bedroll, she took it into the tent. When the dark haired woman exited the tent, she immediately saw Ally sitting there. Ally's eyes were the size of half-dollars and her body appeared frozen in space. A six-foot snake almost identical to the one Chas had at her apartment was perched just behind Ally's right shoulder. Gently, Chas stepped closer. "Just take it easy. Don't move."

Ally threw Chas a look that said 'sure, I was just getting ready to dance a jig or two'. Chas eased around to Ally's right side and carefully grabbed the snake. When Chas backed away, Ally was up and at'em, moving quickly away. "You better watch it. That's a dangerous snake."

Shaking her dark head, Chas explained. "It's not dangerous if you know how to handle it." Holding the snake up, Chas said. "See." She offered the snake to Ally who instinctively retreated. Happily, Chas took the snake far away from camp and released it. When she returned to camp, Ally was already bedded down in the tent. Chas entered then crawled into her own bedding.

"Can I trust you to keep your hands to yourself tonight?" Ally searched for something to say to the person who just saved her.

Wiggling her eyebrows, Chas sent Ally a seductive glance. "Is that what you really want?"

When Ally first met Chas, she realized immediately that her client was the kind of woman who was used to having her way with women. Formulating another tactic in order to deal with Chas, Ally glared at her, wanting some reassurance that the dark haired woman would do as Ally requested.

"Oh, alright. I'll keep my hands to myself." Chas shrugged before she continued. "Well, mostly to myself."

"Thanks." Ally said softly.

Chas astutely realized that Ally was thanking her about the snake incident and that made her smile.

************************

Later that day, Ally and Chas were making their way through the African bush. Leading the way, Ally glanced back at Chas several times who offered a simple smile. In a grassland area off to their right, they noticed several packs of animals in a small valley. It looked like a pair of lions were on their honeymoon as they stalked each other in amorous advances. Ally couldn't help but smile back at Chas. Across the valley, several sets of gazelles were engaged in the dance of mating. After all, it was that time of year in Africa, the mating season.

Swinging her machete, Ally carved a path through the thick bush as they move deeper into the jungle. Chas ducked quickly several times when one too many swings from Ally's machete swiped right by her. "Hey, watch it. You're dangerous with that thing."

Flinging around and waving the machete carelessly in front of her, Ally had a mischievous evil glint flaring in her dancing green eyes. "Oh, I'm not so dangerous if you know how to handle me."

Chas cocked her head to the side. "I don't think I like that look in your eyes."

Feeling very playful and with predatory grace, Ally stalked closer to her prey. "You put it there. The question is… can you put it out?"

Pushing the machete aside, Chas closed the distance between them. Taking Ally in her arms, she kissed the blonde passionately. The machete dropped carelessly to the ground. Finally, Ally broke free from the tantalizing kiss then teased. "Hey! That's not part of the package."

Clearly misinterpreting Ally's comment, Chas stormed past the blonde. "Women! They're all alike."

Grabbing the passing arm of the taller woman, Ally swung Chas back around to face her. "I don't like you…much…" Then her voice dropped an octave lower. "But I do like the way you kiss."

Ally lunged at Chas, knocking her on the ground. Ally's lip locked on to the dark haired woman in a fevered embrace. Chas immediately responded to the unexpected but welcomed assault. Chas' lips wandered down Ally's neck, sucking every inch of it as she sighed in delight. The blonde pulled Chas' lips back up to her own. Adjusting her position on top of Ally, Chas' hands wandered lower, pulling the blonde's shirt up. Then Chas began to remove Ally's clothes. But Ally grabbed the dark haired woman's hand, directing them away from their intent. When Chas kissed Ally harder, her hands returned to their original quest. With one last kiss, Ally sucked Chas' lower lip then pushed her gently back.

"Not so fast." The blonde panted.

Confused, Chas asked. "What?" Then immediately captured the blonde's lips again in a deep and probing savage kiss. Again, Chas attempted to remove Ally's shirt but the blonde pushed the taller woman back with determination. When that happened, Chas' intense focus faded long enough for Ally to scurry up from under the executive.

Straightening her clothes, Ally tucked her shirt back in her pants.

Lying on her side, Chas slowly tried to cool down from the heated exchange. She offered a perplexed stare at Ally who temporarily ignored it. "I was giving you what you wanted."

Barely looking at Chas, the blonde tried to explain her desires. "I just wanted some good old fashion necking… but you want it all. Right now. Women! You're all alike." Ally rushed off, swinging her machete with rapid vigor.

Letting out a deep and frustrated sigh, Chas reluctantly followed the upset blonde.

***********************

They had been traveling for hours in the hot, humid thick bush. Swipe after swipe, Ally cut through the undergrowth in an attempt to clear a path. Chas wiped the sweat from her brow while scrutinizing her surroundings. Wondering where they were, she pulled out her global tracking device and asked. "Are you sure you know where you're going? I swear I've seen these same vines before."

After a few more solid swipes at the underbrush, Ally twirled around. Glaring at Chas with sparks of anger emitting from her eyes, she nearly shouted. "Even in the deepest, darkest heart of Africa, I know exactly where I am." With that, Ally turned sharply back around and with one huge swing she cut through the vine directly in front of her. Suddenly, she plunged forward and fell. Precariously hanging onto the top of the vine that was still secured to the tree, Ally dangled over the edge of a sixty-foot high cliff with only one foot barely on the edge of the cliff. Quickly grasping the top of her waistband, Chas pulled Ally back to safe ground. With great concern and care, Chas embraced the blonde tightly. "You all right?"

Ally immediately broke free from the steadying and welcomed embrace. But she wasn't about to give in to the seductive charms of Chas that easily. "Of course, I am." Running her fingers though her hair, Ally attempted to maintain her composure, feeling embarrassed about the whole incident.

Miffed, Chas snatched the machete up from the ground then headed off into the opposite direction, whacking away at the underbrush. In her best sarcastic tone, she repeated Ally's assertion. "Even in the deepest, darkest heart of Africa… I know exactly where I am."

Fuming now, Ally tracked after Chas. "I coulda pulled myself back.. you know."

************************

Later that day in a small clearing, Chas watched Ally intently. She was huddled over inspecting the ground.

"What cha doin'?" Chas asked.

Eyeing the markings on the ground, Ally pointed. "These tracks here…see?"

Chas glanced at several small animal tracks then shrugged. "So?"

Ally slammed her machete into a log on the ground. "Just safe to know what animals are lurking around. Nothin' to worry about… these are the only tracks I've seen in a while." The blonde sat down on the log.

Feeling cocky and wanting to impress the younger woman, Chas smugly announced. "I know a little 'bout trackin' myself."

With doubt in her voice, Ally asked. "Oh, do you?"

Chas nodded. "Sure, for one thing, there are many different types of animals… like these tracks." The dark haired woman pointed to the markings on the ground while Ally studied them closely. "They've been all over the place." Chas chuckled before she continued. "Seems you've missed them."

"When did you first notice them?" Ally asked seriously.

Chas folded her arms smugly at her discovery and said confidently. "Since early morning."

The blonde guide crossed her leg up over the other one. "Do they look like…" She jutted her foot out. "..this?" Ally pointed to the sole of her hiking boot.

Upon realization that the tracks matched the sole of Ally's boot, Chas narrowed her flaming blue eyes. Chas grabbed the nearby machete from the log and headed off into the bush.

Laughing, Ally called after the fuming dark headed woman. "Let me know if you find anymore… suspicious tracks." She laughed so hard, Ally nearly fell off the log. Finally, she kicked back to relax a moment not thinking that Chas would venture far into the jungle alone.

When she heard an ear-piercing scream, Ally practically flew to the scream's origin. Stopping short of the river's edge, Ally quickly assessed the situation. Chas was perched on a low hanging foot wide branch above the river, about twenty-five feet from the edge of the bank. One long arm was wrapped around a vine while still trying to hold on to the machete. Chas' other arm was clamped around the limb.

Ally tried to coax the scared woman. "Let go of the vine."

"No!" Chas shouted, fearing the worse if she did.

"Come on, let it go." Ally reassured her client in a calm voice.

"Are you crazy?" The dark haired women eyed the blonde with contempt.

Sucking in a deep breath, Ally tried to soothe the upset woman dangling above the dangerous waters below. "Listen, I can't help you if you don't let go of the vine."

Reluctantly, Chas acquiesced the guide's gentle offer of assistance. "Okay." As Chas tried to untangle herself from the vine, Ally cringed.

"Don't you dare drop my machete. Just unhook your arm from around the vine."

Carefully, Chas did as instructed and dropped the dangling limb. The vine swung back to the river's edge.

Stretching out, Ally snagged it. "Okay, now I'm gonna swing out there so stay put."

Doubtful that the blonde's plan would work, Chas suggested. "Maybe I could just drop down in the water, it's not that far."

"Do you really wanna keep those crocs company?" Ally asked.

The dark haired woman's eyes dropped to the water below. "I thought those were huge lily pads."

Grabbing the vine securely, Ally said. "Yeah, ones that bite." The blonde guide took a running swing out toward Chas. Ally flew right past Chas. On her way,
Ally smiled. "I'll be right back." On her return trip to where Chas was located, Ally caught the limb with her leg. Securing herself, she quickly got in a comfortable position.

Chas watched the guide take a deep breath and asked seriously. "Now who's gonna save you?"

Ally calmly took her machete and re-sheathed it into her holster on her back. Grasping several smaller limbs further up, Ally stood. She reached for Chas. "Here give me your hand. There's plenty of room to stand."

Slowly, Chas got up, hurriedly grabbing some higher limbs.

"You're taller, grab as high as you can on the vine. I'll hold on to the lower end… and on the count of three, we'll swing back. One."

Chas clutched the vine tightly, closing her eyes.

"That's it." Ally said, seeing Chas do as she was told. "Two… a big strong woman like you shouldn't have a problem holdin' on… three."

Chas and Ally swung back safely to the river's edge. Tumbling to the ground, they ended up in each other's arms. Finding herself on top of the smaller woman, Chas took the opportunity that presented itself and gazed seductively at Ally. "That was fun."

Temporarily paralyzed by those hypnotizing blue eyes, Ally struggled to maintain her composure before she pushed the bigger woman off of her. "I think we've had enough fun for one day."

************************

After dinner, Ally checked her pistol and other equipment. Chas watched her covertly while fiddling with her own pack. When Ally re-holstered her pistol, she noticed a loose string on the holster. She pulled at it several times.

Wanting to help Ally, Chas quickly reached into her vest pocket to retrieve her knife. Seeing it, Chas just as quickly stuffed it back in her pocket.

With one final yank, the string broke loose and Ally sat it down next to her. Ally scooted closer to the fire, ensuring it was burning properly. When Chas stretched her long legs, she accidentally pushed a long stick into the fire. The fire crackled and popped. When a small ember from the fire stung her eye, Ally fell back against the log. Chas jumped up to assist her. "Here, let me see."

Ally pushed Chas away. But Chas grabbed the blonde's hands tightly, shoving them down. Tenderly, Chas' hands touched her face as the dark haired woman guided Ally's eyes to look up. Ally squinted a few times. The caring older woman studied Ally's warm green eyes and the surrounding area. "Wait here, let me get the first aid kit."

With one eye open, Ally watched the taller woman retrieve the kit and hurried back to her. Chas wet the end of a cloth then gently caressed Ally's cheek, encouraging the hurt woman to look at her.

"Do you know what you're doing?" Ally was suspicious of Chas' abilities and a bit uncomfortable with their closeness.

"Nothin' to it. Trust me, I'm good at this."

"You'd better be good." Ally posted a mock warning.

Chas smirked at Ally's comment. "Oh, I'm good alright… unless, of course, you want me to be bad." A lopsided grin appeared on Chas' face then Ally started to protest. "Hold still." Chas gently silenced the blonde. "There's just a small bit of something…right…there…" Chas dabbed the cloth at the corner of Ally's reddening eye. Ally blinked a few times carefully before deep blue connected with emerald green. Their eyes held each other in marvel for a few long moments. "Better?"

"Yeah." Ally admitted. Chas started to turn away when Ally held her back. "Thanks."

Unexpectedly, Chas tenderly kissed the blonde. The dark haired woman adjusted herself against Ally as they continued to share light kisses. Understanding that Ally was different from the other women in her life, Chas broke away reluctantly. "Is this what you want?"

Uncharacteristically, Ally turned her head slightly away. "Well, it would be nice for it to be a bit romantic… something a girl could remember."

Chas reached out pulling Ally's face back toward her. She gently stroked Ally face. "Romantic, huh? The dinner was kinda romantic, wasn't it?"

Ally closed her eyes against the gentle assault, enjoying the sensation of Chas' touch. "Check."

The older woman kissed Ally again tenderly, running her lips along the blonde's jaw. "It's a beautiful night with a full moon."

"Check." Ally said breathlessly.

Chas' hands found their way around Ally's waist, scooting closer to the smaller woman, moving slightly on top of Ally. "Nice cozy fire with babbling brook sounds from the river nearby."

"Check." Ally smiled as she relaxed under the other woman's gentle prodding.

"Beautiful woman in my arms… with me." Chas smiled smugly. Chas gently flipped Ally over. Now her body pressed against Ally, lying half on top of her. Chas' hands wandered aimlessly on Ally's exquisite firm body.

"Check." Ally was burning with desire, finding it hard to concentrate on anything other than Chas' soft words and sensual hands.

"What more could you want?"

The unexpected question brought Ally back from her sensual haze briefly. Finding herself a bit hesitant now about the proceedings, she demurely looked down. "We really don't know much about each other though."

Chas briefly halted her seductive besiegement of Ally. The older woman propped herself up slightly. "Okay, what do you want to know?"

Not prepared for another question especially since Chas' hands refused to stop their unheeded exploration of her body, Ally thought quickly. "What's your favorite color?"

Readjusting herself closer to Ally, Chas gazed deeply at the blonde. "The color of your eyes."

With those sincere words spoken so softly, Ally's eyes flashed with passion and a deep-rooted desire. Chas' fingers ran smoothly over her creamy soft skin. Closing her eyes, Ally sighed a gentle moan. Chas' fingertips glided over Ally's cheek, floating down to the blonde's cleavage. Ally opened her eyes again to find the look of unmistakable desire flaming brightly in Chas' blue eyes with an unasked question. Ally nodded her invitation. Chas succumbed to the offering before her and kissed Ally fiercely as her tongue snaked out demanding entry. When Chas' tongue pushed through Ally's lips, the blonde was unable to control her moans of pleasure. Ally buried her fingers in Chas' jet-black hair, merging their bodies together. The cool breeze of the night teased their bodies, yet the passion rising from them swiftly turned into a blistering inferno in each other's arms.

Chapter Six

Ally and Chas' bodies were tangled together in the early dawn as they lay inside the tent. Ally opened her eyes and looked at Chas as she slept peacefully. The blonde kissed Chas lightly on the lips. "Come on, we need to get up."

The guide started to get up but Chas pulled Ally back down in a warm embrace. "I can think of better things to do." The taller woman waggled her eyebrows. Chas kissed Ally as she rubbed her body against the length of the blonde's sexy form.

Smiling in delight, Ally teased. "You are such a pleasure hound."

Chas growled seductively and maneuvered her hands around Ally's svelte body, pulling her in for a passionate kiss. Chas' kisses trailed along her neck to her ear and whispered something, making Ally blush.

"Oh, you are bad." The blonde giggled. The executive wiggled her eyebrows at Ally suggestively. Shaking her head, Ally struggled away from Chas, yet a smile still radiated across her face. "Now, go on… you pack up and I'll get things in here ready to go."

As Ally moved safely away and began sorting through her things, Chas reluctantly got up and started to dress. She perused their belongings and just as reluctantly began to gather their personal items and equipment. Growling, Chas mumbled. "I had better things on my mind this morning."

"What did you say?" Ally swung her head around.

"Nuthin." Chas grabbed a few items and headed toward the opening of the tent. After stepping through, she stooped down right outside the front flap and began to meticulously arrange her expensive equipment in the silver metal case. After seeing that it was all in place, Chas snapped the case shut and stood up with the case in hand. She froze cold in her tracks when she noticed a small tribe of African warriors that circled the camp. Slowly, Chas scanned the whole area, put down her case then in one fluid movement, she rotated back around on her heels and pushed the tent flap aside. As Chas hurdled herself inside the tent, Ally was changing her clothes. The blonde abruptly pulled her top back on, closing it over her bare chest.

Wearing only her panties and top, Ally nearly shouted. "Hey! A few minutes more and I would've been naked."

The look of fear on the executive's face gave way to a sexy smile as she devoured the beauty of the woman standing in front of her. "Really." The cashmere smile teased. "Cause I could come back when you are."

Squinting green eyes glared at the dark haired woman, lying on the floor of their tent. "I thought you were going to pack up the camp before we leave… or…" Ally let the front of her shirt drape open slightly. "…were you lookin' for a little bit of company this mornin'."

Realization of what awaited them outside hit Chas upside her head, knocking her from her lust-filled thoughts. Scratching her temple, Chas joked. "Funny, you should mention that…" She sucked in a breath and cocked her head. "…that's exactly what we've got… company."

Ally hurriedly finished dressing and followed Chas out of the tent but not before she slung her machete over her shoulder and grabbed her pistol. Can never be too careful. The guide faced the same scene Chas did just moments before. She bravely stepped in front of Chas, acknowledging the warriors in silent discernment.

Directly in front of the duo, two warriors stepped aside as Eric confronted Ally and Chas. With her pistol in hand, Ally diligently tried to tuck her shirt in and arrange her disarrayed clothes. Eric eyed Ally's disheveled look fastidiously then glowered at the tall executive standing next to the blonde. Chas' composure did not falter under his steely glare. With his rifle hiked up over his broad shoulder, Eric strode forward. "How far would you lead a gazelle traveling at a full run?"

With a smile on her face, Ally accepted the tricky challenge. "You'd lead it as far as it would take for a clean kill."

The rugged Eric shrugged. "Can't argue that." He warmly embraced Ally as she circled his free arm then he motioning to the warriors and commanded in their native language Kiswahili. "Strike the camp quickly." Eric glided the blonde guide around, directing her away from the camp. "Thought I asked you to stay out of this area."

The blonde quirked an apologetic eyebrow. "Would you believe I got lost?"

Eric's stoic demeanor faded with a deep laugh.

Several paces behind, Chas, with case in hand, got trapped in the midst of several warriors. Looking nervous, Chas yelled. "Wait for me."

***********************

Along with about a dozen warriors, Eric, Ally and Chas entered the Moola-Moola tribe's village. Many of the tribe members were going about their daily business when a huge warrior rushed past Eric directly en route to the Chief's hut. After spending a brief time inside, he exited the hut with the Chief in the lead.

Leading the small group, Eric held up a hand, calling a halt just outside the Chief's hut.

The village Chief greeted his old friend. "Hey, cowboy." With reverence, Eric exchanged the customary greeting then hugged the tribal Chief. The Chief spotted Ally over Eric's shoulder. With stretched arms, the Chief took a step toward the blonde. "Long time no see… Allison."

Ally and the Chief embrace as Chas took note of the name the Chief used. After the Chief stepped back, he suspiciously eyed the newcomer. Letting go of Ally, the Chief took a long look, diligently studying the dark haired woman before him. Turning to Eric, the Chief pointed to Chas. "What is she made of?"

A feral look crossed Eric's face. "Guess we'll just have to find out." He said with a sneer that sent shivers through the executive.

The huge smile covered the Chief's previous serious expression as the warriors and other natives yelled, hooped and hollered in anticipation of the challenge. Several warriors rushed off to a nearby open area in the middle of the village. That's when Chas moved closer to Ally.

Grabbing Chas by the arm, the blonde guide directed the executive along behind Eric and the Chief. Chas noticed a target plank set up approximately fifty feet from where they stopped. A warrior rushed up to the Chief with a spear.

Taking the spear, the Chief addressed the tribe. "Bwana brings us a new heart to our tribe… her test is courage. Let our sacred protector of which we protect with our lives… show her true spirit."

The tribe jumped in unison, chanting the sacred ritual song. Although Chas did not understand one word of what the Chief said, she was positive it wouldn't bode well for her. Leaning closer to the blonde, Chas whispered. "I'm not gonna like this, am I… Allison?"

The blonde cringed upon hearing her full name come out of Chas' mouth. "It's a test of courage but… don't worry, you're in no danger."

Chas glanced fearfully at the target plank then noticed the Chief looking directly at her. The fearful woman gulped hard before Ally explained. "You have to pick."

Chas barely squeaked out her question. "Pick what? Where I want the spear to pierce my body? Some choice."

Shaking her head, Ally assured the shaking woman next to her. "No. You choose who you throw the spear at."

Now shocked, Chas argued. "What? What kind of test of courage is that?" Although she was quite relieved the sharp spear would not be heading her way.

Eric stalked close to her, leaning in and with a devious smile clarified. "It doesn't take much courage to face death. The real courage lies in knowing that you are responsible for someone's life and what you do with it." His blue eyes penetrated past Chas' vulnerable veneer as he commanded her. "Now choose."

Looking around the crowd with trepidation, Chas' eyes finally fell on Ally for some kind of direction. Holding the executive's frightened gaze, Ally quickly shifted her green eyes toward Eric then back to Chas, giving her an absolute measure of confidence at the suggestion. Reluctantly, Chas pointed at Eric who nodded then took his place in front of the target.

After being handed the spear, Chas sucked in a deep breath and leaned in close to Ally. "Don't worry, I'll make sure I miss."

Shrugging her shoulders, Ally assured the executive. "Oh, I'm not worried about my uncle…"

Blue eyes popped open wide. "Uncle?"

Ally continued. "He'll be fine. But you best be accurate, if they don't think your throw is serious, you get to be mated with the tribe's fair maiden over there." The blonde nodded in the direction of Mali-Mali, (Molly-Molly) a middle-aged woman with a crazed look in her eyes and dressed to the hilt with symbols of voodoo and charms. "She had a husband once, oh, there he is… at least his head…, he's hangin' from her staff."

Seeing the shrunken head, dangling from the staff in her hand, Chas shivered when the voodoo woman smiled sweetly at her. "You're kidding, right?" Sucking in several deep breaths, Chas turned her attention to Eric, the human target.

Encouraging her client, Ally lightly squeezed Chas' arm. "Come on. You can do it. Chassie."

The crippling fear roaring up inside her caused Chas' gruff response. "It's not Chassie." Chas bored a look into Ally that brooked no argument.

Ally wistfully looked at Chas questioningly. "Chas?"

With complete resignation, not only to Ally's recent spin on Chas' name but her imminent predicament, Chas launched the spear at Eric. It sailed through the air, slicing the edge of Eric's left forearm. Eric removed the spear and broke it then tossed it aside whereupon the tribe jumped in an uproar of joy.

Ducking her head around to look at Chas, Ally smiled. "You can look now."

To Chas' temporary relief, she saw Eric approach her, mostly unharmed. But Eric was practically nose-to-nose with Chas now when a slight grin emerged across his lips. "For now." The ex-military captain wasn't absolutely convinced of Chas' intentions but recognized the well of courage within.

Eric strode past the relieved executive as Ally moved closer. "He likes you." The blonde let out a chuckle and patted Chas on the back.

Holding his arms high in the sky, the Chief proclaimed. "Now we celebrate!" As the crowd roared in celebration, Eric followed the Chief to his hut.

***********************

Gathered around a huge fire that night, the Chief, Eric, Ally and Chas watched the dancers pounding their feet to the rhythmic beat of the drums.

The Chief leaned toward Ally. "How's your father, Allison?"

Sitting crossed legged in between Chas and her uncle, Ally replied. "Great. Doing real well."

The Chief took a sip of his drink. "He's good at healing. We still remember his help to my tribe many years ago."

"He's the best." Ally agreed.

In a very rare moment, Eric pouted as he revealed a vulnerable side that only his niece or brother was privy to. Eric leaned down and whispered to his niece. "Yeah, but I was the bestest baby."

Ally looked warmly at her uncle and squeezed his forearm.

When the Chief gave Chas a cup, he motioned for the executive to partake of the offering. Chas sipped the concoction tentatively and upon satisfying her taste buds, nodded back in approval. She then drank deeply from the nectar.

"What brings you to Africa?" The Chief quizzed his guest.

Taking in the sight of dancing natives, Chas was feeling the effects of her drink. "Business. We're lookin' for a place to build a resort." But the concerned look on the Chief's face caused Chas to try another tactic. "It's so people from all over the world can enjoy the beauty of this great continent."

Nodding, the Chief agreed but had grave concern about this upcoming project. "That it is. A beauty that I do not look forward to travelers trampling over it, marring the very beauty which you profess to admire."

Trying to explain the project's concept and get the Chief's approval, Chas continued. "It's really only a resort for those with way too much money who want to take a holiday in the wilds without any real threat of danger. I'm sure our clients won't really want to venture out into the bush."

The Chief seemingly accepted Chas' explanation and that made Chas happy for some reason. But she was soon distracted when Mali-Mali pulled her up, dragging Chas to the dance area. The Chief, Eric and Ally watched the enticing moves of the dancers. Eric duly noted that Ally's eyes wandered to Chas more often than not. When Ally spied her uncle watching her, she smiled shyly. He leaned in closer toward her. "Anything I should know about?"

Shaking her head adamantly, Ally denied her uncle's assertion. "No. Nothing, not really." Yet, her green eyes magnetically followed the seductive moves Chas was demonstrating as Mali-Mali directed the executive's hips with her hands. Ally could tell that Chas was feeling the full effects of her drink and Ally, too, was a bit light headed.

Chas twisted and turned, finally escaping from the voodoo woman's clutches as Mali-Mali averted her attention to other reluctant suitor. Feeling lost in the music, Chas instinctively swayed toward Ally. The blonde was mesmerized by Chas' seductive dance.

Eric watched closely as Chas' hungry blue eyes washed over Ally like a lover's hand. Though not happy with that look, Eric realized that Ally was a grown woman. "Nothing? Seems to me there's an awful lot of smoke for no fire."

Ally hardly paid attention to her uncle's comment. Feeling not quite herself, Ally shifted uncomfortably, tucking a bit of hair behind her ear. Chas leaned down, taking the blonde's hand. With one clean, swift jerk, Ally was propelled into her arms. Chas' hands moved sensually around the blonde guide's hips. Within moments any concern about onlookers dissolved as Ally lost herself in Chas' lustful gaze. There, in that moment, no one else existed for them. The music beat to their every move, grinding their bodies together in the rhythmic pounding of their hearts.

The music was abruptly interrupted when two warriors ran into the village directly to the Chief. With everyone's attention on the heavily breathing warrior, he stepped closer. "They're here."

The Chief immediately delegated his warriors to prepare then offered Eric a knowing glance. Eric nodded in understanding as the Chief headed to his hut and several warriors followed him.

***********************

Eric, Ally, Chas, along with several warriors and their Chief, huddled silently as they watched the heavily armed guarded compound. Several of the guards appeared to be sleeping. Only one was poking at a small fire near the center of the camp. There were two tents and nearby they saw a variety of exotic animals in cages.

Eric offered his friend a warning. "You don't have to do this, Chief."

But the Chief recognized his lifelong duty and took it seriously. "They are on our land… my life has no meaning if I fail to protect it."

Nodding, Eric pointed out a distinct disadvantage for the spear carrying warriors. "They have guns and plenty of 'em. Your spears won't make a much of a dent."

Taking his friend's warning seriously, the Chief agreed but offered some sage advice that Eric had once given him. "As you have said many times, cowboy, there are more ways than one to skin a cat."

Eric grunted. "Yeah, well, this cat's got high-powered claws."

Chas moved closer to Ally. "Why would he risk his people's lives for a few poachers, just because they're on his land?"

With her eyes still glued to the camp scene where one poacher stood up and grabbed a cup, Ally spoke to Chas. "It's not just the land, it's what they believe it holds."

Thoughts of gold danced in Chas' mind but before she could question Ally further, Eric motioned for the warriors to spread around the compound. When the warriors were in position, Eric stealthily moved forward with Ally and Chas in tow. Eric slipped past a couple of sleeping guards and took out the one by the fire with ease.

He kicked the coffee pot, making another two guards to jump up wide alert from their sleep. With Eric's gun pointed directly at them, they dropped their own weapons. With the business end of Ally's machete pointed at him, another poacher sat silently, awaiting his fate.

Chas moved in to collect the weapons right before the main tent flap swung open and out stepped the head poacher, Buck. He stood there half-dressed, smacking his lips loudly from his just finished meal. Buck was the kind of guy that didn't care what he did for a living as long as his belly was full. "What the hell is all the noise about?"

Eric moved up and sneered. "Just your morning wake up call, Buck." He poked Buck in the belly with the tip of his rifle.

Stepping back in order to get away from the point of the gun, Buck growled. "You son-of-a-bitch! You'll never get away with this, you know that, don't you?"

Eric grunted. "You talk big for a little bitty minnow. I don't want you. It's your boss that interests me."

"Ha." Buck let out a belly laugh even though faced with his current precarious predicament. "For years, you've come up short."

In a low and menacing voice, Eric grizzled. "He may elude me for now but his day will come and I'll be there." Eric motioned toward the caged animals. "All these gifts for your friend? What did he have in mind… a little sporting event? Well, it's been cancelled. You disgust me." Eric spat before turning to Ally and Chas. "The Chief and I will wait here for the game warden, then we'll take these slugs and throw 'em in a hole."

Just then the game warden's vehicle, along with another truck drove up to the camp after being advised of the situation by Eric before he left the village. Having done all they could for the moment, Ally and Chas headed back to the village to get their gear while the Chief and Eric helped the game warden with the animals and poachers.


Chapter Seven

Back in New York City, Bullard and Davis perused some pictures as they rode in the limousine. Davis handed Bullard one of the pictures, pointing to it. "This the spot?"

Nodding, the CEO concurred. "Yeah, Chastity took some nice shots. I just love that new gadget she used. Sent 'em right over the internet… and look at the detail." He bragged about the latest technology his company could afford.

David was becoming impatient with Bullard's rambling. "You're sure this is it though? We don't want any mistakes."

The big man shrugged off his cohort's insinuations. "I've spent years looking for it. It's there… I trust my instincts."

With a concerned look on his face, Davis asked. "And Chastity? You trust her?"

Setting the pictures aside, Bullard sighed. "Yeah, it's time. Besides, that little trouble with my shipment pushes things up a bit."

When the limousine slowed, Davis turned to Bullard. "Well, good luck." He pulled on the door's latch and got out.

Bullard scooted over and asked. "Davis, you sure you don't want to come? Gonna miss out on all the fun."

"No. I've got to take care of business on this end. Besides, you live for this kind of thing." Davis advised his friend.

"That I do." Bullard agreed, puffing out his large chest. "That I do."

***********************

Ally and Chas enjoyed a slow ride down the long and winding African river as they returned to their expedition for the resort. They paddled slowly with the current and relaxed at the sight of the breath-taking scenery laid out before them. Off to one side of the river, the couple observed several baboons swinging though the trees, playing and grooming each other.

Near a small riverbed island, several pelicans were enjoying the water as they basked in the sun. Farther up the river on the other bank, a flock of flamingos were in search of their next meal. Chas watched Ally in wonder as the blonde took in the sights of Africa, almost as if this was the very first time she had seen it. Ally spotted a brightly colored turaco bird resting on a branch that was hanging out over the river's edge. She pointed to it with a bit of childish excitement. "Hey, look. Isn't it beautiful?"

Chas' blue eyes remained firmly on the blonde, never straying from the sight before her. "No." The raven-haired woman countered. "It's just a bird. You're beautiful."

Ally blushed slightly then nodded for Chas to look closer at the bird. After Chas dragged her eyes off of the blonde, she reluctantly took a quick peek. "Alright, it's pretty… colorful." Chas chuckled as her blue eyes beamed back to the blonde.

Noticing the smile on the executive's face, Ally smiled, too. "You seem happy."

Stretching back, Chas took a long moment to consider what Ally said. "I guess I am." She admitted. "Oh, I know I didn't do much but… stopping those poachers… well, it felt good." The taller woman rubbed her temple and smiled wider. "It was the right thing to do."

The blonde scooted closer to Chas and captured her willing lips.

When the luxurious kiss ended, Chas asked. "Is that a reward? Because if it is then just up ahead…" The brunette pretended to search out an area in the distance. "Yeah… there it is… another animal that needs savin'." She pointed aimlessly down the river and continued on with the ruse. "If we hurry, I could probably save hundreds of lives today…you know…" Chas smirked. "…save up for a grand prize." The brunette arched her eyebrow seductively.

Teasing her lover, Ally leaned in closer. "Are you ever gonna shut up?" Her green eyes were completely captivated by the executive's kissable lips.

Licking her lips, Chas teasingly demanded. "Give me one good reason to."

Ally pressed her body against Chas and kissed the brunette. As the kiss lingered, the blonde's hands ran freely though Chas' hair.

Capturing a much-needed breath, Chas continued with her demands. "Okay, give me another reason."

The blonde kissed Chas again. This time hard and with determination. "You need another reason?"

Feeling slightly faint and breathing heavily, Chas grinned. "No, but I'm sure I will later."

Mission accomplished, Ally smiled and leaned her head on Chas' chest.

For the first time in her life, Chas felt completely out of control. No woman had ever penetrated her well-fortified barrier like Ally just did. Feeling the walls crumbling down around her, Chas gently scooted away from the blonde's embrace and picked up the paddle then started rowing.

Needless to say, the blonde was more than just a bit confused by Chas' attitude change. The usually sure of herself guide reluctantly took the other paddle and joined Chas in maneuvering the raft without another word spoken.

***********************

Driving the zebra striped humvee, Eric and the game warden traveled down the rocky dirt road as another vehicle followed close behind, carrying the five captured poachers. When the radio squealed, Eric grabbed it. Hearing the call from the radio dispatcher, Eric said. "Go ahead."

"We've got reports of poachers near the Moola River."

Without hesitation, Eric confirmed the implied request. "I'm on my way." He just as quickly pulled his vehicle to a stop. Nodding toward the vehicle behind them, Eric asked the game warden. "Can you handle this?"

The game warden jumped out of the humvee and assured his friend. "Let me know what you find. I'll take care of the poachers." When Eric nodded, the game warden motioned for the second vehicle. He opened the door and slipped inside. As the game warden and his charges headed off, Eric negotiated a one-ninety, heading off in the opposite direction.

Grabbing the microphone, Eric barked. "Ranger one to Ivory one."

"Go ahead."

"What's your twenty?" Eric wanted to know the whereabouts of his niece.

"On the river near the Mbaya region." The blonde answered.

His wide shoulders slumped. "Listen, I really hate to ask, but you're closer. There's a report of some activity near there. Can you check it out?"

Her uncle could detect the tinge of excitement in Ally's voice as she answered. "We're on our way."

"Don't approach 'em. Just let me know what you find." Eric warned his niece.

"Ten-four." Ally confirmed the request.

***********************

Chas and Ally rummaged through the scattered remains of the deserted campsite. Ally picked up several pieces of debris then after a quick inspection, she discarded them.

The brunette slapped her hands together trying to clean her palm and fingers of the bits of dirt there after handling some of the rubbish. "They've been here, huh?"

Scanning the area, Ally nodded. "Yeah, you can see where they dragged the animals to the cages." The blonde pointed at the tracks before she turned. "Come on, the tire tracks go this way."

Without a word, Chas followed the blonde guide. The executive was getting hot and sweaty after walking several miles but she was excited about their adventure. When they finally came upon an occupied camp, Chas noticed several cages with animals in them loaded on the back of a truck. She saw two tents with one guard near the fire.

Ally surveyed the same sight as the brunette and stealthily stepped forward a couple of steps. Whispering, she ordered. "Hand me that radio." Her eyes keenly searched the camp for guards. When Chas failed to respond, Ally turned. Chas held out the radio but the unseen poacher yanked it out of the executive's hand.

"I don't think so." He smirked with an evil grin. With his rifle in hand, the tall poacher nodded motioning them to move. Dead on their heels, the poacher directed Ally and Chas into camp.

Stripped of her handgun, machete and rifle, Ally and Chas were tied up and sitting on the ground inside the tent. One of the poachers flipped open the flap and entered without warning. He studied them a long moment, grinning at their predicament.

Frustrated and hungry, Chas growled. "Are we gonna get any food?"

The poacher simply grunted. Before leaving the tent, he checked their bindings, ensuring a tight fit.

Ally twisted her wrist trying to loosen the rope. "Not very good hosts, huh?" The blonde continued to struggle against her bonds. Sighing, the blonde frowned. "You know, you coulda warned me that guy was right behind us. I can't believe they caught us so easily."

Fuming from the accusation, Chas spat back. "How was I supposed to know a poacher would be takin' a leak in the bush."

Wiggling around in total despair, Ally temporarily gave up. She eyed the brunette sitting next to her. "Can you get loose?"

Chas shrugged. "Nope."

Studying their situation closely, the blonde suggested. "Well, maybe if you turn around… you can get close to my boot. We need something to cut these ropes." The blonde twisted her legs toward Chas' back, where her hands were tied.

"Wait." Chas had a better idea. She shifted around until Ally's hands were near the right side of her vest's pocket. "Reach in there." The blonde poked around, feeling something cold and hard. "It's a knife." Chas beamed, thinking she had outsmarted the poachers.

The blonde reached inside and retrieved the knife. Quickly, she flipped the blade out and twisted more so she could be back to back with Chas up against her. "Don't move." Ally warned. She carefully cut through Chas' bindings.

Once free, Chas took the knife and easily spliced the rope around Ally's wrists. The executive cut her feet free and then handed the knife to Ally who in turned freed her feet. The blonde jumped up and started to hand the knife back to Chas. "Thanks." Ally's hand stopped short when she finally noticed the knife with its ivory handle.

Recognizing the stunned look on Ally's face, Chas guiltily admitted. "It was a gift."

Silently, the blonde dropped the knife into Chas' hand. Realizing this conversation would have to wait, Ally turned her mind to the matter at hand. "Come on, we gotta get out of here." Grabbing her own knife out of her boot, Ally quietly ripped through the tent wall.

Chas grabbed her arm. "Wait. Our equipment… your guns? They're out front."

When Ally heard some rustling noises near the front of the tent, she slipped through the hole. "We don't have time."

With Chas right behind, they escaped into the early light. When the tall poacher entered the tent and found their captives gone, he yelled out to the sleeping guards.

***********************

Ally and Chas have been on the run for the last hour when the blonde suddenly stopped in a small clearing, causing Chas to bump into her.

"Why we stoppin'?" Chas scanned the surrounding area frantically. They were closed in with the only visible escape being the same way they came in and the poachers are drawing near.

Ally quickly studied the area.

Frustrated, Chas' shoulders slumped. "Dead end."

The guide's green eyes flashed with an idea. "Maybe not."

The running footfalls of the poachers were growing louder with each second and Chas realized they had to do something fast but was hopeful Ally had a solution. "What.. what do you have in mind?"

The blonde glanced up, taking in the rock wall that extended at least sixty-feet straight up.

When the dark haired woman recognized where Ally's eyes were pointing, she backed up. "Oh, no."

Ally tugged at Chas' sleeve. "It's either up there or you go back to camp with the poachers."

Chas' conflicting emotions didn't have long to fester before she heard the poachers imminent arrival. Chas' deciding factor was the insistent blonde pushing her toward the wall. Reluctantly, the dark haired woman started climbing up, clinging desperately onto the protruding rocks.

The guide encouraged her slow comrade. "I'm right behind ya." Ally jumped on the wall, grasping the few handholds available.

Chas negotiated the rock wall with Ally's hurried yet gentle urgings. Ally kept close body contact with Chas the whole time as they pushed upward. About half way up, Chas reached out but there were no visible place to secure her hold. "That's it. We can't go any farther."

Ally hurriedly surveyed the immediate area above them. Nodding, the blonde directed Chas. "There's a hand hold, grab it."

Frantic blue eyes scanned the solid rock and saw nothing to hold on to. "Where?" For the life of her, Chas couldn't see or feel anything to grab.

"Right there." Ally chanced letting go of her hold and pointed at a spot on the wall.

The executive saw where Ally was pointing and even after squinting her eyes, looking closely, she still could not see anything to put her hand on. Chas dropped her glance to Ally once before she searched the area again. "That?" The dark haired woman let out a deep sigh after Ally nodded. "That's just a scratch on the rock."

The blonde slid up Chas' body. "Go ahead, grab it. I'll push." After the guide secured her footing, she shoved Chas upward and the executive miraculously secured a good hold on the rock before boosting herself up further.

Sweat was pouring from both women's brow after finally reaching the top with one final push up and over the edge. Lying on her back, Chas was panting hard as Ally snuck a quick peek back down the cliff to the clearing. The executive slowly turned around to face Ally and then crawled to the edge for a look see herself.

They saw the poachers stumble into the small clearing. When the poachers didn't see any other way out of the clearing, they took off back in the direction in which they came. Relieved, Ally and Chas watched quietly from atop the cliff and welcomed the reprieve from their hunters.

**********************

Ally and Chas trailed down the countryside with no food or water. With the hot sun beating down on them, they were hot and sticky and more than a bit irritable. The guide spied a fallen log and walked toward it. With a heavy heave, she plopped down on the log. "Let's rest a bit. Then we need to get something to eat."

"That'll be nice." Chas smirked then added. "How?"

Ally shrugged her shoulders. "Hunt something' up… I've got my knife." Ally threw Chas a displeased look. "As a matter of fact, we've both got knives."

Feeling guilty about possessing the ivory handled knife, Chas looked away from Ally's stare. Then the executive fumbled around through her vest pockets in an attempt to distract the blonde from her accusing thoughts. Finally, Chas pulled out a small device and another one, showing them to Ally.

Somewhat interested, Ally asked. "What's that?"

Smiling, Chas held the gadget higher. "It's a tracking device. See you put this thing…" She shoved it toward Ally for closer inspection. "… on what you want to track and with this…" Chas displayed the other part of the device. "… you can follow it." She handed both of the devices to Ally.

Studying the pieces in her hands for a brief moment, Ally finally smiled and Chas followed suit. "Great, I'll catch a little squirrel then we can stick that on its' belly and follow it around until we're starved." When Ally smirked, Chas' smile faded. Ally got up. "What else you got in there?" She rummaged through the pockets of Chas' vest all the while the executive was slapping the blonde's hands away.

Finally, Ally gave up when Chas retrieved an item, showing it to the guide. "Only this."

The blonde studied the cell phone. "Hmm…. there's this little village over the next rise. They've got this little bar that serves food…" Her tone was serious until that same smirk sprang back on the blonde's face. "You think they'd deliver?"

Yanking the cell phone back, Chas shoved it in her pocket. "Funny. Very funny." Her demeanor turned solemn. "Seriously, it's out of range now but later…"

Shaking her head, Ally looked around the brush filled area. "Why don't we split up? There's a small lake over there." She pointed past the sparse tree line. "We need water and you can look around here… anything will do." Before Ally departed, she turned to Chas and gave a verbal warning. "Just don't go too far."
Reluctant to separate from the guide, Chas took a few steps, following the blonde. "I don't know about this. Shouldn't we stay together?"

Ally stopped the brunette with her hand. With an impish glint in her green eyes, the blonde threw out the challenge. "Come on, who ever gets the best catch of the day, doesn't have to cook. Okay?"

That struck the competitive spirit in the executive and even though she felt they should stay together, Chas readily accepted the test. "It's a deal then." The executive immediately walked a few paces away and squatted down, studying the ground.

Ally couldn't help herself as she said. "And no trackin' my boots either."

Lighting blue daggers pinned the blonde and held Ally at bay for a few brief moments before the blonde turned and headed toward the lake.

**********************

Much later, Ally and Chas were traipsing down the long dirt road and they both looked weary. The blonde nudged her partner. "At least I got us some water."

Chas grabbed the blonde's arm, twisting her around and halting her progress. "Hey, I found the berries."

Ally chuckled. "Yeah, just a few bites of those and we'd be hallucinating."

Over the guide's left shoulder, Chas saw a game warden vehicle approaching them. "Ally." The brunette's serious look garnered the blonde's attention. "Here comes the game warden."

Ally didn't turn around she continued to study Chas. The blonde reached up and felt Chas' forehead. "You sure you didn't eat any berries?"

Firmly grabbing Ally's shoulders, Chas twisted the guide around. That's when Ally saw the game warden's vehicle stop about twenty feet from their location. The doors on both sides of the vehicle opened simultaneously. And much to their dismay, out stepped Buck and one of his men.

"Well, well, look what we got here?"

Ally pushed Chas back away from her toward a bushy area off the side of the road. "Run!" She yelled. Turning back around, Ally stepped confidently forward to confront the two poachers.

The poacher with Buck took off after Chas but Ally dove in front of him, dropping the big man to the ground. They struggled for a bit and she was winning until Ally rolled over and came face to face with the barrel of Buck's rifle. The big poacher jumped back up and ran after Chas.

With his rifle still pointed at Ally, Buck stopped the poacher's chase. "Wait." He directed his attention back to Ally. "Now get up little lady."

Dusting her pants off, Ally stood up.

Buck slung his rifle over his shoulder and jerked Ally around in front of him. Brandishing his ten-inch knife, he held it precariously up against her throat. "If you don't want your girlfriend here to die, you best come out." He hollered to Chas.

The blonde struggled against him. "No! Get away from here." She tried to see in what direction Chas ran but Buck violently yanked her back, securing his firm grip.

Chas walked slowly from the bush into plain view.

Snickering, Buck displayed his rotten teeth. "Now that's a smart girl."

As Buck pushed at Ally, the poacher shoved Chas forward and directed her to the back of the vehicle. With Ally and Chas both secure inside the vehicle, Buck and his man climbed in the front.

The big poacher turned to his boss. "What about our supplies?"

Grinning at his captors, Buck's eyes lit with an evil glint. "First, we'll make a little stop."

The ugly man's savage grin did not go unnoticed by both Ally and Chas.

Chapter Eight

Under the African sun, Ally and Chas were hanging from a tree limb by the rope attached to their arms. They were an arm's length apart facing each other.

Chas sighed when Ally shifted her body away from the brunette. "I don't know why you're mad at me."

The blonde swung back around to face Chas. "Why didn't you get away when I ran interference?" The disappointed look on the blonde's face demanded an answer.

In total disbelief, Chas countered. "I came back to save you."

Ally growled in frustration, ignoring the brunette's explanation.

With pleading eyes, Chas explained. "I couldn't just walk away. It was the right thing to do." The dark haired woman dropped her gaze. "You taught me that."

Ally rolled her head and spat. "Next time don't listen to me."

Completely frustrated, Chas shook her head. "Sometimes I just don't get you."

Seeing the despair written all over the executive's face, Ally caved a little bit and tried to explain. "If you would've gotten away… maybe that new fangled thingamajig you got would have been in range and you could've contacted my uncle or someone."

Hopeful, Chas asked, producing a small smile. "You're not really mad, are you?"

Finding it extremely hard to keep her stern face in check, Ally quickly changed tactics. "We still need to get out of this."

Chas could see a plan formulating in Ally's head. "You've got an idea, don't you?"

Ally's face lit up with a knowing smile. "Still got my boot knife."

Chas frowned as she looked down at the boot housing the mentioned knife then she ran her questioning blue eyes all the way up Ally's body to the blonde's tied hands. "This I gotta see."

Ally winked. "Oh, you're gonna do more than that." Without warning, Ally started to climb up Chas with her feet. She placed her left foot dangerously close to Chas' nether region.

"Hey, watch it."

"Sorry." Ally shrugged but continued her assent.

Chas waggled her eyebrows and said. "I appreciate the boot massage and all but what do you expect to accomplish by climbing up my body?"

Steadily placing her foot in place, Ally explained. "My boot near your hands. You get the knife, cut yourself loose then me." Her left foot was braced carefully on Chas' right shoulder. With her other foot, Ally stretched it up and over Chas' left shoulder en route to the brunette's hands.

Chas' fingers fumbled around a little but finally gripped the knife. Then suddenly Chas' body twisted with Ally's added weight on her. The guide's left foot slipped over Chas' shoulder while her right leg dropped down over the brunette's other shoulder. Chas' face was now wedged in between Ally's legs. The blonde frowned at her predicament but Chas' face lit up with a bright, winning smile. "I think I just got the best catch of the day."

Shooting the dark haired woman an evil glare, Ally tried to move from her present position but it only forced Chas to drop the knife from her hand. They both watch it fall hilt first as Ally unintentionally caught it in her bra, landing directly between her breasts.

"Okay." Chas happily conceded. "I give up. You beat me. You got the best catch of the day." Chas' blue eyes were glued to the knife's temporary home.

As Ally pushed herself back from Chas, her legs fell down, swinging loosely.

"Now what are we gonna do?"

Steadying herself, Ally came up with a new plan. "I want you to grab the knife by your mouth."

Eying the sharp edge of the steel blade, Chas questioned the blonde's decision. "You may not have noticed this but that's the sharp end of …."

Frustrated, Ally barked. "Just do it. And don't take any side trips." The blonde warned.

Chas' blue eyes focused on the knife instead of the blonde's breast but it was hard as her mouth inched closer. Carefully, Chas retrieved the knife.

Ally pulled herself up and grasped the knife between her boots. She arched further up to the rope bindings on her hands. Carefully, Ally saws back and forth, cutting the rope until she dropped free from the bindings. She dusted herself off before turning to the still hanging Chas.

"Well?" Chas motioned for Ally to cut her down. The dark haired woman started to get worried when she saw the evil glint in Ally's green eyes.

And for a few long delicious moments, Ally tapped the edge of the knife against her lips deciding if she should release Chas. "I think I like you tied up better."

***********************


After nearly an hour, Ally and Chas were still walking down the dirt road. Both were tired and frustrated. Ally even more so as she combed her hair repeatedly with her fingers.

The brunette smiled at Ally's unconscious gesture. She turned her head back to face the road and spoke. "You know, I made a bet with myself when you would run your fingers through your hair again." Chas glanced toward the blonde in question. "You do that often."

Ally rubbed the back of her neck, pretending indifference. "Did you win?"

With a smug smile, Chas replied. "Yes."

Ally took a quick step forward before throwing her tort response back at the brunette. "Good, we could use the money."

Shaking her head, Chas didn't hesitate catching up with the blonde, lengthening her strides.

When they finally reached the small village, Chas followed Ally into the tiny café. The guide quickly checked the place out before venturing further inside. She noticed the bartender, wiping a glass clean, and several customers scattered at different tables enjoying their meals.

Chas stepped ahead of Ally, wanting to take charge, and ordered the bartender. "We need some food."

The bartender nodded, put the glass away and walked toward the end of the bar.

Ally yelled after him before he went through the draped covered doorway. "And a room to rest for a couple of hours."

"Room's down the hall on the right. I'll bring the food shortly." The bartender pushed back the drape.

As Ally and Chas headed down the hall, a pair of steely eyes from one of the customers followed them till they entered the room. Then he hastily exited the café, leaving his drink behind.

It was some time later after they had finished their meal when Chas asked the obvious question. "We need to get word to your uncle somehow… what's the plan?"

Ally jerked her boot string tight. "I need to procure a couple of things first. Then we can get out of here." She rose off the bed. "You stay put…" The loud banging at their door interrupted her thought. Curiously, she looked at Chas. "Anyone you wanna talk to?"

Chas backed away from the door, shaking her head. "No."

The blonde was at the window before Chas noticed. "Didn't think so. Let's roll."

Chas leaped out the room's window that led to the alley after the blonde guide.

Carefully, Ally and Chas made their way behind several small buildings. They finally came to rest in a back alley on the other side of the café. With no pursuers in sight, Ally turned to Chas. "Listen, we need a ride and it would be better if I go alone…" The blonde scanned the immediate area. "…you wait here and don't move, okay?" Ally searched Chas' blue eyes for assurance. "I'll be right back."

Ally doubled back and was gone in a matter of seconds. Chas was left with trying to stay out of sight while Ally was gone and found a safe refuge under some stairs. She saw a few people pass back and forth near the front of the alley. With the slamming of the door above her, Chas looked up to see a beautiful young woman with long dark hair, walking down the steps. Chas retreated back a little, trying to conceal her presence.

Finally, reaching the bottom of the stairs, Marta paused to adjust her stockings. The sight of this woman reminded Chas of New York City and that this magnificent creature would fit right in there. The sight of this kind of woman was rare in the backwoods of Africa. Chas' blue eyes couldn't believe the exquisite mirage standing in front of her. The brunette was definitely captivated by Marta's seductive moves as she bent over, her hands gliding along the side of her long leg all the way up to the top of her thigh.

Marta caught a glimpse of someone behind her. Straightening her silky dress, she turned to Chas. Her cerulean blue eyes held Chas in place for the longest moment.

Chas gulped, dazed by the lustful sight before her. "Hi."

As Marta slinked toward Chas surveying her prey, the executive stepped further into the open out from under the stairs.

"This is nice." The glazing eyes of seduction covered Chas with its web.

"Hello." Chas was finding it hard to breathe. She virtually never found herself this nervous when around women before. It was so unexpected finding this magnificent woman here in the wilds of Africa.

Marta took her by the arm and escorted Chas to the front end of the alley. With a foolish grin on Chas' face, she allowed the exotic beauty full control.

When Marta turned to enter the cafe, Chas woke up from her lust-filled haze. "I can't.. I've gotta wait.."

But Marta's lips found their way to Chas' ear. The executive felt Marta's hot breath on her skin. "Come with me."

Chas' knees threatened to collapse when she heard the seductress' words. Yet, Chas remained hesitant until she saw one of Buck's poacher friends. Astutely alert to the impending danger of being seen, Chas hurried Marta along into the café.

Once inside, Chas led Marta to a dark booth in the back of the café. The executive hoped the out of the way corner booth would provide some cover. Before they could even get settled comfortably in the booth, the bartender was there with two drinks.

"Marta. Here ya go… the usual." The burly bartender smiled sweetly at his favorite customer.

Picking up the shot glass, Marta nodded to the bartender. "Thanks."

The bartender slipped away since Marta's full attention was focused completely Chas. She scooted closer and placed her right hand affectionately on Chas' upper chest. She allowed her hand to cascade down the executive chest as Chas squirmed a little. "Now about you and me…"

The startled look on Chas' face turned sexy, brimming with her usual confidence now. Chas definitely knew how to flirt and as the opportunity just presented itself, she turned on her usual charming persona. Not one to miss an opportunity, Chas happily responded to Marta's sexual onslaught. Chas wrapped her arm around the beauty next to her. The sensual dance was in full bloom as Marta taunted and teased Chas, whispering huskily into the executive's ear on several occasions and letting her hands roam freely over Chas' body.

***********************

Ally hurriedly burst into the ally, breathing heavily. Frantically, she searched for Chas but the alley was deserted. With feline grace, she approached the front of the alley. The blonde slowly made her way over the café's front porch, looking for any signs of the wayward executive. Finally, she entered the café, again searching for Chas. Suddenly, she spotted Chas sitting way too close, in her opinion, to a beautiful woman. She squinted her eyes and with fierce determination, Ally approached the couple. The blonde watched with jealous eyes as Marta laughed at a comment Chas just made.

Marta took the opportunity to rub up against Chas suggestively, tapping the executive's nose. "You are a bad girl, aren't you?"

Before Chas had a chance to respond, Ally took a giant step into view. "Yeah, she's a real bad girl."

Chas looked up nervously. "Ally, I was just.. hiding.. you see one of the poachers." The executive moved slightly away from Marta's embrace. "Well, when Marta here suggested we come in here… he was right there outside." Chas pointed to the front of the café. "And it did seem like a good idea…"

"Chas." The brunette chanced a glance at Ally. "You're rambling."

"…at the time." Chas concluded.

"You comin' with me or you got better things to do?" Ally demanded.

Marta didn't miss the jealous glare thrown her way by Ally and so she pulled Chas closer.

But Chas gently pushed the beautiful woman away. Stealing a quick glance at Marta, Chas said. "It was nice meeting you."

Marta flashed Chas a smile that well indicated that the executive had an open invitation to visit again anytime. Reluctantly, Chas turned around to face a fuming Ally.

And in one swift move, Ally was on her heels as she turned and left the café. Chas was right behind.

After negotiating their way quickly through the alley and back around several buildings, Ally and Chas reach an old beat up truck. "Get in." Ally ordered.

The executive ran around to the passenger's side. "Where'd you get the truck?"

Ally hurried to her side of the vehicle. "I just got it."

Twisting her head around to face Ally, Chas asked seriously. "Legally?"

Ally threw Chas a look that said 'don't ask'.

When Chas' foot hit something on the ground, she saw an unconscious man lying in front of her. Back peddling fast, Chas asked. "What happened to him?"

Ally shrugged as she stepped into the vehicle. "We needed the truck, he took exception to it…so I nailed him right in the… process." The blonde guiltily bit her lip.

Chas stepped over him. "Anyone we know?"

Ally turned the key and revved up the motor. "Poacher."

Chas was still looking at the fallen man when Ally hit the pedal and sped off, leaving a cloud of dust.

***********************

They hadn't gotten too far out of town when the vehicle slowed to a halt. Ally jumped out and lifted the hood of the old beat up truck. Frustrated, she fiddled with several wires then looked up. "Now try it."

Chas flipped the ignition key. The truck showed no signs of coming to life.

Ally wiped off her hands on her pants as she came around to the driver's door. "Must be outta gas."

Seriously, Chas scolded the blonde. "You shoulda checked that before you stole it."

Glaring at Chas, Ally defended her choice of vehicles. "Well, I was a little bit busy trying to get us out of that town…before we were caught… again." She slapped Chas lightly on the arm. "Not that you were much help."

Slightly angry, Chas got out of the truck and slammed the door harder than she intended. "Hey…" Chas propped her hands on her hips. "I was busy trying to stay out of sight myself…"

Ally walked up within inches of Chas. "Yeah, that's right you were busy, too. Let's see, I was trying to get out of town… you were trying to stay in town." Ally practically growled. "Tell me, what was wrong with that picture?"

Under the blonde's determined glare, Chas backed up slightly. "Oh, nothin'." Not wanting to pursue the conversation further, Chas looked anywhere but at the upset blonde before her. That's when she spotted another vehicle speeding down the road. "Look, here comes your uncle."

Ally swung around and spied the zebra striped humvee. Grabbing the brunette's arm, Ally yanked Chas to a small bushy area off the side of the road. "Come on."

Following along reluctantly, Chas teasingly complained. "Hey, I don't think we've got time for this…" A well-targeted glare stopped Chas' lame sexual suggestion. Now squatting down covertly out of view next to the blonde, Chas finally tugged at Ally's arm. "Why are we hiding from your uncle?"

Without looking at Chas, Ally explained. "The last time you spotted the Calvary comin' to save us… turned out to be the wrong riders."

They waited patiently as the humvee got closer. Upon recognizing her uncle's trademark cowboy hat, Ally leaped out into view. When the ex-military man spotted Ally and Chas, Eric slowed the vehicle. He pushed the passenger's door open. "Get in."

As the humvee barely came to a stop, Ally and Chas hopped inside. Before Chas could close her door, Eric pushed the humvee into full gear onward. The executive noticed the same western saddle sitting next to her that was in Eric's airplane.

The humvee splashed through a small creek then Eric negotiated the vehicle up a fifty-foot low-grade incline. To the right of the creek was an almost invisible pathway that Eric took note of. As they continued speeding down the road, the pathway became narrower with thick bush springing up on either side.

When the game warden's vehicle came into sight just in front of them Ally tapped her uncle on the arm. "Poachers."

Without missing a beat, Eric whipped his humvee around, heading back to the same creek he passed earlier as the poachers came barreling after them in hot pursuit. Chas and Ally ducked as bullets flew their way.

"I hope you got something up your sleeve." Ally yelled at her uncle as she scooted lower in her seat.

Eric grinned. "Near that creek we just passed, there's a hidden path on the side. If we can make it over the ridge before them… they'll pass us by…" His grinned turned evil. "Then we'll be the ones pursing them."

At full speed, the humvee flew over the top of the ridge. The poachers were within striking distance. When the humvee tires finally touched down, Eric's shoulders slumped in desperate resignation as he saw a small heard of elephants bathing in the creek. He slammed on the brakes. Suddenly clearing the ridge right behind Eric's humvee, the poacher's vehicle slid to a halt a few feet behind them. Several armed poachers jumped out of the vehicle, surrounding the humvee.

Pointing the rifle in his hand at his formidable opponent, Buck smirked. "Now it's your turn for a wake-up call, Eric. Get out!"

With Eric, Ally and Chas tied up in the backseat, Buck drove the humvee though the bush. There were no visible trails and the poacher's vehicle followed closely behind. They drove for several hours before reaching their destination.

Chapter Nine

When Buck finally arrived at camp with his captives, he saw several of the men scurrying about preparing to leave. Buck ordered Eric and his comrades out of the vehicle and followed them to the center of the camp. As a small poacher about Ally's size passed by Buck, he demanded. "What's goin' on?"

"Packin' up. Boss wants to head out." He hurried on with his duties.

Buck saw one of his men exit the main tent and moved to greet him. "Where is he? I got him a surprise." Buck nodded over his shoulder.

The poacher jerked his thumb over his shoulder to the main tent then went about his way. Buck noticed a huge piece of meat on a spit over the fire and his belly growled so he grabbed it and stuffed it in his mouth.

When the tent flap folded back and out stepped the boss, Buck, Eric, Ally and Chas watched Bullard emerge. They all had a different reaction when Bullard graced them with a slow feral grin as she studied his uninvited guests.

"If it isn't my old friend from our military days. You know, Buck…" Bullard stepped confidently forward. "You wouldn't believe it but…" Bullard pointed to Eric. "We were in the same outfit. Matter of fact, got shot down on one of our missions… landed right here smack dab in the heart of Africa. Well, not right here but… close enough." His evil grin made Eric growl. "Ever since then, Eric and I have shared a love for Africa. Oh, not for the same reasons but we're more alike than he cares to admit." Then the big man directed his attention to his young protégé. "Chastity? Fancy meeting you here."

For some reason, Chas felt a more formal ambiance was appropriate at this time. "Mr. Bullard."

"Oh, come on, girl… it's Bull to my friends." Bullard cocked an eyebrow. "You are my friend, aren't you?" Noting that Chas had not left the young blonde next to her, Bullard eyed Ally suspiciously.

"It's just that I'm surprised to see you… Bull." Chas chanced a glance to Ally before addressing her boss. "What's this all about…"

Bullard let out a belly laugh. "You're a bright girl… all those hunting expeditions. Buck, here, provides the sport.. and well, you remember your inquisitive questions to Davis about all the export business we do from Africa to Hong Kong."

Chas looked innocently at Ally, wanting the young woman to be assured she knew nothing of this kind of operation. "I didn't know." She said quietly.

Turning deadly serious now, Bullard said. "It's time to pay the piper, Chastity. You with me?"

Swallowing hard, Chas fidgeted nervously and stole another quick glance at Ally. The blonde captured Chas' eyes as an unanswered question was spoken silently.

Trying to entice Chas with the luxuries of life that he was offering her, Bullard continued. "We're cut from the same cloth, Chastity. We both want the finer things in life."

"At any cost." Eric spat.

Bullard ignored his rival, still focusing on his young charge. "I can get them for you…she's…" Bullard nodded at Ally. "…she's just a roll in the bush. You can get that anywhere." Bull laughed at his own insipid joke but Chas pulled Ally closer to her. Shrugging his head in disappointment, Bullard turned sharply toward Buck. "I'm too close to what I've wanted all my life.. you take care of 'em. And…" Stopping the next mouthful of food from Buck's mouth, Bullard yanked him dangerously close. The big poacher stopped chewing. "Make sure I never see his face again… at least alive or you'll never have to feed that monster you call a belly again." He patted Buck's paunch. "When you're finished here, meet me back at the main compound and get ready for a large shipment out."

With that, Bullard and most of the poachers climbed into the vehicles and headed out into the bush. Buck was left behind with two of his own men in order to eliminate their captives.

Ally whispered to her uncle. "Where do you think he's headed?"

Eric's blue eyes squinted in hatred. "I've got a pretty good idea."

Buck snagged the last chunk of meat off the bone then tossed it to the ground. He aimed his rifle dead center on his intended target. The other two poachers did the same. With a mouthful of food, Buck stepped up. "I always swore that if it was the last thing I do, I'd get you…"

Chas, Ally and her uncle stood frozen as Buck laughed heartily. When Eric flinched, Buck cocked his rifle high but broke out into a coughing spell as he choked on the piece of meat. Eric seized the opportunity that presented itself. He dove at Buck and tackled him to the ground. Guns flew loose and bullets speared through the air as six bodies twisted and turned, all struggled to get the upper hand.

***********************

Bullard waved to his driver to slow down the vehicle when he heard three distinct gunshots echo through the bush. A smile of satisfaction crossed his lips. Adjusting himself in the seat, he motioned for the driver to proceed.

***********************

Bullard was making preparations at the staging area he had set up for the transfer of goods. The boss along with the rest of the poachers watched intently as one of their vehicles drove up. When Chas got out of the truck, she paused then walked closer to Bullard.

"Change of heart?"

Chas shrugged. "As you said, we're cut from the same cloth."

Eyeing his young executive cautiously, Bullard asked. "The others?"

Chas sucked in a deep breath. "Dead…" She looked down. "Both of 'em. And one of your men. Buck's goin' on as you directed."

Proudly, Bullard hugged Chas. "It's an epiphany when one finally realizes the difference between predator and prey."

Still solemn, Chas spoke quietly. "I would think you would have to experience the psyche of the prey or at least be ready to be on the receiving end to understand."

Bullard grunted. "No. You and I, we are superior. Our mindset never enters into that realm."

Chas glanced at her boss. "But I did hesitate…back there."

Bullard let out a hearty laugh and shook off Chas' brief indecision. "I didn't say we wouldn't be distracted by the… female gender every once in a while… but you came around. I knew you would. I trust my instincts." With a fatherly grasp around Chas' shoulder, Bullard guided her away. Off in the distance, an elephant's angry dying cry echoed throughout the jungle. The eager glint of hunger glinted in Bullard's eyes upon hearing that sound. "We're close."

Bullard led Chas away from the vehicle into the compound as the small poacher that drove Chas there followed a fair distance behind.

***********************

Eric galloped along on a zebra when he ran into the Chief and a dozen of his warriors. Jumping off the zebra, Eric approached the Chief. He was deadly serious as the Chief acknowledged him.

"We were on our way. I know a shortcut. Haraka! Haraka!" The Chief ordered his warriors to follow. They moved out quickly through the bush.

***********************

After a rugged hike through the bush, Bullard pushed through some thick brush then stood atop a small ridge. There before him in a covertly hidden valley was a huge graveyard. It was filled with tons of ivory tusks left from old elephant carcasses. Chas stepped up next to her boss.

"This is what it's been all about." A greedy grin adorned his face. "White gold."

***********************

Eric, with the Chief and several warriors, were cutting their way though some thick foliage. Near the edge of the clearing, Eric halted the procession as he dropped to the ground. The Chief crawled up next to him. They saw Bullard along with Chas and two poachers shuffling through the graveyard about seventy paces to their right.

The Chief nudged his good friend. "We could use a diversion."

Without a word, Eric nodded and took off, attempting to come in from behind Bullard's position. The Chief motioned for his warriors to get in position around the graveyard. One of the warriors safely eluded a determined elephant, making her way toward the graveyard. The warrior turned back, heading to the Chief's position.

Bullard yelled at one of his men. "Get back to the others and have them start clearing a path up here then have Buck bring the big truck."

The poacher nodded then headed off on his assigned mission.

Bullard turned to the smaller poacher who was milling around aimlessly among the scattered bones. "Get up here and start clearing this area."

When the small poacher drew near Bullard, Eric stepped out from the bush. Eric's rifle nozzle had a bead on Bullard. "I don't think so."

Bullard realized that he was the only one with a rifle since Chas and the small poacher appeared to be empty handed.

"Put your rifle down, Bullard." Eric ordered him.

But as the other poacher who Bullard ordered to get Buck started to drive off, he spotted Eric coming out of the bush toward the graveyard so he backtracked and with his rifle in hand snuck up behind Eric.

The Chief saw what was happening, but could not get word to Eric before he made his move on Bullard.

But Bullard saw his man position himself directly behind his archrival. "I don't think so." Bullard nodded to a place behind Eric. Yet, the ex-military man didn't take it too seriously until the smallest poacher reassured him with a slight nod that someone was behind Eric. Reluctantly, Eric lowered his weapon, glancing back to see the poacher, rifle in hand. Eric dropped his weapon to the ground.

"Move on up." The poacher ordered.

Eric did and then the poacher picked up his weapon. With a poke to his back by the rifle, Eric moved ahead.

The Chief's warriors were now in position. Never one to let fate be the only director of his destiny, the Chief circled behind the elephant.

After some rowdy encouragement from the Chief, the angry elephant stormed into the graveyard, taking a defensive position between it and Bullard. Ally, who had been disguised as the small poacher, seized the opportunity to distract him. She dove onto Bullard's back, knocking him forward which caused him to drop his rifle. Ally fell to the ground. Chas reached for the weapon but not before Bullard snatched it back. As the blonde attempted to get up, Bullard recognized Ally. Bullard backhanded her in the face, knocking her hard to the ground.

Upon seeing the red mark on Ally's face, Chas slammed her fist squarely into Bullard's mug, knocking him to the ground. Chas rushed to Ally, pulling her into her grasp. "Nobody touches her."

With this distraction, Eric took the opportunity to over-power the man that held him at bay and knocked his rifle loose. But the poacher whipped out a knife, thrusting it at Eric, who was able to quickly twist the poacher's wrist back around. The knife sunk deep into the poacher's middle, killing him.

Bullard was back on his feet in a flash with weapon in hand. Bullard and Eric's eyes drilled holes into each other for a long moment until he spoke. "The old Mexican stand-off, huh?"

Eric shook his head. "Not quite. The odds are in our favor."

Bullard saw the Chief and his warriors had surrounded the area. He slowly pointed his rifle away from Eric to Ally. "I think that evens the odds."

Chas moved directly in front of Ally but Bullard just laughed. "I've got a high-powered rifle with an armor piercing bullet that will not only sail through your heart and into your pretty little girlfriend but will continue on another two hundred yards."

Chas didn't budge as Ally slipped her arms around the dark haired woman's waist.

"So you become the prey… again." Bullard smirked. "Suit yourself." When Bullard moved forward, the Chief rushed toward him. Hearing this, Bullard swung around and shot the Chief.

He fell listlessly to the ground.

Quickly, Bullard re-positioned his weapon on Chas and Ally. Ally rushed toward him, diving at his mid-section and knocked Bullard back. Brandishing her boot knife as she leaned over him, Ally jabbed it to Bullard's neck. With cold hard resolve, Ally pressed the blade closer, drawing blood.

Bullard snickered at both of their predicaments. "So, you become like me."

Angrily, Ally shouted. "I am not like you."

As Bullard lay on the ground, inches from death, he taunted Ally. "Sure you are. You'll do whatever it takes to protect your precious Africa. Go ahead, kill me, if you got the stomach for it."

Bullard tossed his weapon aside yet it was still within arm's reach. Ally hesitated as she sucked in several deep breaths. Slowly, she eased the knife back and got up. Ally turned away from him then Bullard grabbed his rifle, hurrying to his feet and took dead aim at the blonde.

"Ally!" Chas screamed.

The blonde swung around with a roundhouse kick, knocking Bullard back. Struggling to maintain his balance, Bullard twisted around right into the path of the charging elephant. Swinging his gun up, Bullard fired off a round just before the elephant bolted into him, piercing Bullard with one of her tusks. The elephant jerked Bullard up off the ground and savagely ripped into his body. Bullard's weapon flew from his hands though the air. Chas quickly retrieved it and handed it to the blonde standing next to her.

The Chief's warriors moved in to surround the area while Eric checked on the Chief's condition. Finally, the elephant dropped Bullard's lifeless body to the ground then backed away.

Chas strode to Bullard's carcass, nudging it with her foot. "Pray. I hope you had time to." Chas walked back to Ally and wrapped her arm around the blonde. The warriors remained in their defensive position while Eric huddled over the Chief.

"My warriors will see me back to the village. You go back, get the others. Make sure they're locked up for good." The Chief held his right arm that was bleeding from the bullet wound.

Eric nodded. "Will do." He turned to see how the rest of the group was doing.

"Cowboy?" The Chief called.

Eric returned his gaze to the Chief.

In absolute seriousness, the Chief asked. "What about Allison's friend?"

Understanding exactly what his friend was referring to, Eric assured the Chief. "Don't worry. Our secret will remain in the family."


Chapter Ten

Eric had his saddle perched over his right shoulder. Ally and Chas were standing nearby while Kana stuffed a shirt into his backpack. Eric called to the young intern. "If you're comin' with me, you better hurry. I've got a water pump to pick up. It will take us at least say…" He shot a knowing look at his niece and winked. "..four or five days to get back."

Ally blushed and moved closer to Chas.

"What?" A confused Kana stumbled closer. "We're not walkin', you know. We're takin' the plane, right?"

Eric nodded toward Ally and Chas who were now standing so close not even a sliver of light could squeeze between them. Kana studied the couple for a moment. Then with a twinge of jealousy, Kana resigned his own romantic feelings to this new development between his boss and her client. "Ohhh…." Kana walked up next to Eric who was waiting patiently at the door. "Is somebody at least gonna tell me what happened out there?"

Ally summarized the results of their adventure. "The poachers are all behind bars. And the game warden only had a mild concussion from Buck's escape."

Chas glanced at Eric. "What about the Chief? How's he doin'?"

"Aaah… fine. Kana and I will stop by before we head back here." Eric confirmed his intentions about checking in on his old friend.

Relieved, Kana said. "So no more poaching, that's great."

Eric shook his head vehemently. "As long as the demand remains, another group will move in but… that's for another day." Eric headed out the door as Kana followed right behind.

Scratching his head, Kana asked. "About stoppin' by your tribe… now Chas told me some interesting things about 'em. What's a heart challenge and what does it have to do with Mali-Mali?"

Ally and Chas laughed hard. With Eric and Kana gone, the laughter faded away and the silence between the two became deafening. Ally moved slightly away from Chas.

Sighing, Ally nonchalantly commented to her client. "Never did find that perfect place for the resort."

Rubbing her neck, the dark haired woman smiled. "Somehow I think that's a no go."

With curious apprehension, the blonde asked. "So what will you do now?"

"I don't know yet… it depends."

Ally raised her eyebrows in question. Desperately wanting to avoid that particular subject for now, Chas switched to a new topic. "I thought you said it was a myth?"

"The graveyard?" Ally put more distance between them, sensing that Chas was pushing her away. "I suspected but didn't know for sure. And I certainly didn't know Eric knew its location."

"I know he's your uncle and all but you never did really tell me about him. What's his story?" Chas was happy to talk about something, anything other than the tension building between them.

"He was a Ranger, years ago, just like Bullard said. They were shot down in a mission over Africa. After an extensive search, Eric was the only one still missing. Then my father came to Africa and found him…."

Chas lifted her hand to halt Ally from finishing her story. "I know…. happily livin' among the natives."

Ally couldn't stop the laugh. "Something like that. The tribe saved him and by that time he had become part of their family. His views changed dramatically about animals and their rights… don't get me wrong he loves to hunt but for him it's now about preservation… maintaining that precious balance between man and beast. Apparently, he became a protector of the graveyard, too." Ally's expression turned serious. "And now, that we both know its location, well, it is a family secret."

Chas remained silent so Ally started to turn away.

"I should get things ready to take you back to…" Ally started calmly yet ended on a sarcastic note. "….civilization."

Chas grabbed the blonde by the arm, pulling Ally into her embrace. Chas stroked the blonde's bruised face gently.

"Guess I don't look very good, do I?" Normally never self-conscious about her looks, suddenly she was very well aware of them.

Chas gazed deeply into her emerald eyes. "Look into my eyes and see just how beautiful you are…" Now barely a whisper, she continued. "…to me."

Ally blushed shyly. "So, no one touches me, huh? Not even you?"

Confidently, Chas laid claim to what she now wanted more than life itself. "Me, yes. No one else."

Feeling more confident, Ally pursued her previous line of questioning. "You never did say what you were gonna do?"

Smiling, Chas moved her face a little closer to Ally. "You did say that graveyard was a family secret. Guess I'll just have to stay… and become part of the family." Suddenly unsure, Chas gulped before she whispered. "If you'll have me."

Ally flashed Chas a teasing smile. "Are you gonna be good?"

"Oh, I'll be good… unless of course you want me to be bad… but I'll only be bad for you." Chas' impish grin turned seductive.

The blonde snuggled closer to Chas. "And don't you forget it."

Captured, Chas gave her heart to Ally completely. Wrapped snuggly in Ally's embrace, the dark haired woman smiled. "I guess I did find that perfect place." In Ally's arms, Chas' blue eyes gently caressed her love's happy face. "I love you Ally."

With these words, Chas kissed Ally deeply. Their passion rose in an all too consuming embrace. And as the sun set over the White Elephant Safari compound, Ally and Chas began their lives together.


THE END


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