“We believe in many of the same philosophies,” she said. “That’s not to say that we don’t disagree on occasion. But I believe that disagreement is the beginning to strong relationships and understanding. We can’t possibly all believe in the same things but we can attempt to understand them.” Ham smiled at the woman, nodding.
“We couldn’t agree more.”
CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE
The meeting spot for the team to connect with Santori was a small restaurant on the fringes of the jungle. Not quite in the middle of the public fray, but also not removed or remote. It made both parties feel a bit more comfortable.
They spotted him seated in the far corner, his men surrounding him with weapons drawn. The entire restaurant had been cleared.
Gaspar and Ghost took the lead, sitting across from the man as the others made sure to keep vigil over Santori’s men.
“I wasn’t sure you would actually show up,” smiled Santori.
“We keep our word,” said Gaspar.
“I hope so. Remember, you promised not to touch me.”
“We won’t touch you,” said Gaspar. “What do you have on the president?” Santori pushed a folder toward him, filled with stacks of paper. He scanned the documents, many being duplicates of what they’d taken from the president’s laptop.
“There should be more than enough evidence in there to bring down your beloved leader,” smirked Santori. “Of course, it will bring a, what do you Americans call it? Shit storm. Yes, that’s it. Odd thing to say. Shit raining down on everyone.”
“Seems appropriate,” said Gaspar. “Yes, the American public will be disappointed. Shocked even. But we’ve been shocked before and we’ve recovered. That’s what none of you will understand. In the end, we always recover and come together. One nation.”
“Yes, yes, you’re a marvelous example of a democracy,” frowned Santori. “We should all strive to be like you.”
“That’s not what I said,” said Gaspar. He handed the folder to Luke who placed it in his backpack.
“If we are finished, I should get to my next location,” said Santori. “You’ve destroyed many of my homes, but no hard feelings. Not really. After all, all is fair in love and war.”
“This isn’t love and we damn sure aren’t at war. Not yet,” said Gaspar. “I’m keeping my word. Just remember that.”
Santori stared at him, then heard the pain-filled cries of his men. He searched the room, seeing blood and horror, but Gaspar’s men weren’t moving. Nine and Luke smiled, Trak standing near the edge of the jungle.
“Wh-what have you done? What have you don’t to my men? You promised!”
“I’ve done nothing. Neither have my men. The jungle is a dangerous place, you’ve said so yourself. Fascinating creatures here.”
“No. No, they wouldn’t have come into a crowded area.” He looked up at the rafters, horrified to see multiple anacondas, two jaguars, and several other creatures.
“They’re beautiful, aren’t they?” smirked Gaspar.
“What have you done?”
“I’ve kept my word,” said Gaspar turning to leave. He moved around his animal friends, petting the head of one of the anacondas. He laughed out loud and nodded at the reptile. “Yes. You can have him.”
“No. No!”
Santori’s screams followed them out of the restaurant and into the streets beyond. Surprisingly, other than some blood, there was nothing left of the men he’d brought with him. They were all gone and that was fine with Gaspar.
“What now, Dad?” asked Luke.
“We take the evidence home and give it to Ham. This is their mission from this point forward. That man will never touch one of my children again.”
“Uh, he’ll never touch anyone’s children again,” smirked Luke as the anaconda slithered forward, licking her lips. He and Gaspar both petted her once again, Trak doing the same, thanking their jungle friends.
“You’re sure getting used to this new skill of yours,” grinned Ghost.
“It’s come in handy,” smiled Gaspar. “Besides, they’re not much different than we are. They want justice for their people, their families. Santori and his men killed many just for sport. The animals were happy to get their revenge and I was happy to afford them the opportunity.”
