"And I can handle Liam's gendarmes in Bariloche," Munz said, "who I suspect are going to try to be far more helpful than you want them to be."
Munz put the money in his pocket, laid a hand on Castillo's shoulder in thanks for the cash, and led him back to the others.
"Colonel," Sparkman said, and handed him a flight plan. "Perfect weather all the way."
"Thank you," Castillo said.
And what happens to you, Dick, if--when--the worst scenario happens?
That would effectively end your Air Force career. Getting shot down in flames for your association with the disgraced OOA will be even worse for you than your association with the Air Commandos.
"Colonel," Davidson said, "I put an AFC device aboard."
"Thank you."
Munz handed Davidson the wad of hundred-dollar bills Castillo had given him.
Duffy's face showed he wondered what the hell that was all about.
"Lester," Castillo ordered, "go with Colonel Munz and put the lady in a backseat in the airplane."
"Yes, sir."
As she walked past him, Lieutenant Colonel Alekseeva asked Castillo if she could ask where they were going.
He didn't reply.
[FOUR]
The Llao Llao Resort Hotel
San Carlos de Bariloche
Rio Negro Province, Argentina
1625 30 December 2005
The manager of the luxury resort--who was attired in a tailcoat and striped trousers--met them at the front door, shook Munz's hand, ignored everybody else, and led them through the lobby--where a dozen employees were engaged in changing the holiday decorations from Christmas to New Year's--then to the elevator bank, and on to a top-floor suite.
"This will do nicely, thank you," Munz said after examining the four rooms. "I will need keys for all the doors, of course."
The manager handed him a dozen keys on a ring.
"The boat is available at the dock, Colonel," he said, bowed his head, and left.
"May I use the restroom?" Svetlana asked.
Munz pointed to a door.
"Wait outside for her, Bradley," Castillo ordered. "If she tries to get away, try not to shoot her, but . . ."
"Yes, sir."
Svetlana did not look at Castillo as she walked past him. Max walked after both of them. Castillo set the puppy on the floor, where he immediately followed his father to the bathroom door, then raised his leg against the leg of a small table and puddled the carpet.
"I wonder where he gets it all," Castillo said, almost admiringly.
"You're taking him with you?" Munz asked.