A Hero's Journey -- Part 45-
Part XLV

“So, you really have no idea where this new base is,” Duo said, crossing his arms as he leaned back in his chair.

Trowa’s face remained expressionless. “I’m hoping that the transmitter will give us the location soon.”

Heero glanced up from his computer. “That’s a pretty big gamble.”

“We’re running out of options,” Quatre stated, “and Relena could be running out of time.”

“I can’t believe this! We’re some of the best trained soldiers in the world and this is the best we can come up with!”

Wufei shot the braided man a glare. “Peace has made us weak.”

“Even you, Wufei?” Duo baited.

“Guys, this isn’t helping! We have to stay focused. Miss Sally, have you learned anything new from the Preventers?”

“Maybe. Several aristocrats and military officers with ties to Romafeller and the Bartons began disappearing about six years ago. They all didn’t go underground at once, allowing them to evade the notice of the Preventers.”

“What exactly were you guys noticing then?” Duo asked.

“About 50 militant groups that could be serious threats and watching about 20 more for militant signs,” Sally replied. “The Preventers only get so much funding.”

“As fascinating as all this is,” Milliardo interjected.

“We have movement.”

Heero’s quiet statement stopped all discussion in the room. An instant later the data appeared on the large screen. They all watched the blinking dot for a moment.

Duo gave a mirthless smile. “So we're following the bouncing ball.”

“Duo and I will handle this.”

“You and Duo?” Quatre questioned, looking at his friend.

Trowa nodded. “I have credentials that can get us in. You are too high profile for this type of mission.”

“Don’t do anything without calling in some help. I won’t have my sister’s life in jeopardy more than it already is.” Milliardo leveled a glare at Trowa and then Duo.

Noin ran into the room and went immediately to the screen. “You guys will want to see this.”

“What is it?” Wufei demanded.

“A telecast from Relena,” she replied as the politician appeared on the screen.