********

Lorie had continued tracking old friends and enemies from the 'good old days' of her tenure at Section One. Michael and Walter fell into the former category while Operations and Madeline fell into the latter.

Lorie knew everything that went on inside Section One better than anyone in it. Between her 'talents' and contacts, there wasn't much about Section that she didn't know.

Over the years she had tried to quietly help those she considered her friends. She'd been glad to see that she was right and Michael's life was changing. Nikita had brought him kicking and screaming back into the world of the living. She'd even brightened up a dreary and oppressive Section with her personality. The young operative had also become close to another old friend, Walter. For that alone Lorie was grateful. She also knew that if Nikita was canceled, whether Michael and Walter knew it or not, they wouldn't last long without her.

With all that in mind, Lorie went to her superior, Onega, and asked for permission to interfere. She knew she had to ask, for Omega knew *everything,* even more than Lorie, and she did not want to lose his trust by going 'behind his back.'

"Yes?" Omega queried, sitting behind his desk at the Center, looking at reports when Lorie came in. The fact that she had such easy access to Omega spoke volumes about her position in the Agency.

"I need a favor." Lorie began without preamble.

"You?" Omega arched an eyebrow in surprise, trying to remember the last time she had made such a request.

"Yes. I would like your permission to interfere in Section One."

"In what matter?"

"Adrian and the ensuing repercussions." Lorie replied.

"Adrian." Omega paused. "I won't ask how you know about Adrian. Somehow, I'm not surprised though." Omega finished, again assured he made the right choice in Lorie for successor. Her connections and talents were proving *most* impressive.

"Thank you." Lorie returned, grateful Omega was not pushing.

"I'm assuming you want to block Nikita's cancellation?"

"Yes."

"You know the rules. No intervening or interference between the Sections and Oversight unless specifically requested." Omega returned, then continued, forestalling Lorie. "However, I'm willing to make an exception."

"The condition?" Lorie asked, knowing there would be a price to pay.

"This is the last time."

"Understood."

With Omega's 'blessing,' Lorie prepared for her confrontation with Madeline.

********

Lorie had decided on Madeline rather than Operations. Once Madeline was convinced canceling Nikita would be a mistake, she would be able to convince Operations without generating suspicion from him. However, the reverse wasn't true. Madeline was much better at manipulating Operations than the other way around.

Lorie entered the Section on the pretense of confidential Agency business. Knowing time was running out, Lorie headed straight for Madeline's office. She met up with Operations in the hallway outside Madeline's lair and realized she came just in time as Operations was also on his way to see Madeline.

Lorie wasted no time on pleasantries and 'asked' Operations to leave. She explained that her meeting with Madeline was top priority, highly confidential and required privacy, even from him. Taken aback and not at all happy with the request, Operations nevertheless complied, he had no choice really, Lorie outranked him now.

"What do you want?" Madeline coldly inquired, once Operations left and Lorie scrambled surveillance.

"Do not cancel Nikita." Lorie replied, not wasting any words.

"I don't know what you're talking about." A shocked, but serene Madeline returned.

"No games. Not this time. I know all about Adrian. Cancel Nikita and so will George." Lorie supplied, succinctly.

"You're bluffing, you have no evidence." Madeline countered, neither denying nor confirming the accusations. "Besides, you don't have the authority to interfere."

"I have access to information as well as contacts and sources inside Section that you and Paul are not aware of." Lorie smiled, knowing her words would send Madeline's paranoia through the roof, trying to figure out who the 'traitor' was. "So, whether or not I have authority is moot at this point."

Of course, there was no traitor, at least not a human one. There was built-in surveillance all throughout Section One as well as all the other arms of the organization that only a select few members of the Agency were aware of and even fewer who had access to it. It was one of the ways to make sure things didn't get *too* out of hand in any branch. Not to mention that Section One's main frame was no match for Lorie's hacking skills.

Lorie was not supposed to know about the surveillance either, but one of the perks of her job and almost familial relationship with Omega was his looking the other way when she accessed intel she wasn't supposed to and trusting her not to use it 'improperly.' Knowing the amount of trust Omega was showing in allowing her access and the fact that his trust was even harder to earn than Operations', George's, Madeline's and Michael's combined, Lorie did not betray it.

"Blackmail? I didn't think that was your style."

"Turnabout is fair play, don't you think? After all, isn't extortion one of *your* favorite tools?" Lorie countered. "In case you need any further motivation, I've also compiled evidence of, shall we say, yours and Paul's past transgressions." Lorie paused handing Madeline a disc. "Of course there are copies and they will be forwarded to *several* people in the event of my untimely demise."

"Agreed. I'll see to it." Madeline replied while returning the disc to Lorie after reading it. Although Madeline was shocked and dismayed at how much information was on the disc, years of Section training served her well and she betrayed nothing, no emotion was evident in her voice or demeanor. She could have been discussing the weather. "Anything else?"

"No, this will suffice." Lorie concluded their meeting, adding on her way out. "For now."

********

After her 'meeting' with Madeline and subsequent exit from Section, Lorie breathed a sigh of relief. Her debt was finally paid. Lorie had been carrying around a lot of misplaced guilt. At first it was because she 'saw' Simone 'die' and was unable to do anything about it. For the last two and a half years, the guilt was in not 'seeing' that Simone was alive. Although her skills had grown, she still wasn't able to see everything. Making sure that Nikita lived was the only way Lorie knew to redeem herself for her past failure of Michael and Simone. The only thing that kept Lorie from interfering the previous year was that she *knew* that Michael would not let Nikita die on the Shays mission. As for the subsequent events, Jurgen was a demon from the past that Michael needed to fight on his own.

Lorie also did it for another old friend. Michael wasn't the only one who'd suffer without Nikita. Walter would be devastated as well. Section One, Operations in particular, hadn't been kind to the old warhorse recently. Cancelling his new bride on their wedding day was a low blow, even for Operations. You'd think that with his many years of loyal service Walter would have gotten a break from his superiors. Omega hadn't allowed Lorie to intervene on the older man's behalf, Operations was within his rights and, he added, she should know better than to "let past emotional ties dictate her present actions."

Still smarting from that one, Lorie nevertheless pushed Omega for Nikita's life. She reasoned that part of why he said yes to that is because he saw Michael as the future of Section One, and possibly Oversight or even the Agency, if Lorie was reading her boss correctly, that is. Omega surely must have realized as Lorie did that Michael would never recover from another loss like that. Besides, the Vacek mission would be in jeopardy if Michael shut down again and heaven forbid that happen. By letting Lorie interfere *for* him, Omega kept his own hands clean. At the time, Lorie didn't much care about the reason behind his approval. All that she cared about was that her only two remaining friends from her Section One days would be the better for it.

After receiving confirmation that Madeline did her job, Lorie went back to her usual routines. She kept her promise to Omega and did not ask to intervene again. A few weeks later Lorie and Michael were once again sent on a mission together. While he wasn't the same young man he was all those years ago, he *was* healing. Lorie figured that Michael's healing would not be complete until he could put the Vacek mission behind him. For his sake, Lorie had hoped that it would be soon.

After their joint mission life went back to 'normal' for Lorie until six months later when unexpected events forced her from The Agency for half a year and her life was turned completely upside down.

********

While Lorie's life was turning upside down, Michael's was finally on the upswing, well as upswing as one could get in the Section. His blood cover mission was over and Nikita had once again brought him out, kicking and screaming, into the world of the living.

He didn't want to at first. After achieving closure on the Vacek mission, Michael had no desire to go on living, or better yet, existing, like he did after Simone's death. Michael just wanted out. He'd lost so many and so much over the years, he'd lost count. Lorie was alive and well, but Michael was sure that it was only because she was out of Section. Had she stayed, Michael was sure that she would have suffered the same fate as Chuck and everyone else he'd dared call friend.

Even Nikita couldn't convince him to live. Michael long ago admitted to himself that he had strong feelings for his former material, but it wasn't enough, in fact, in his eyes, it made his situation even more desperate. Michael knew his actions post blood cover warranted abeyance if not outright cancellation. He acted that way partly out of selflessness and partly out of selfishness.

Selflessness because he didn't want to cause Nikita or anyone else any more pain. There would be nothing to stop them from having a relationship now and as far as Michael was concerned that was not a blessing, but rather a curse. He knew the consequences of maintaining a relationship in Section One, he'd lived with it before, he could probably do it again. What he didn't want was for Nikita to suffer those consequences. Ironically, that's also where his selfishness came in. The ending of the Vacek mission showed Michael once again the world he existed in. Elena and Adam were as good as dead to him. Michael was tired of outliving everyone, mourning his losses and enduring the solitude. He just wanted it to end. He wasn't strong enough, or perhaps weak enough, to take his own life so he'd make Section do it. Whether canceled or killed on a mission didn't matter as long as he was dead.

He'd so thoroughly convinced himself that was what he wanted, that Michael didn't care that there were those who would *not* accept it. Of course, Nikita, Walter, Birkoff and a few others in Section not wanting to lose him was understandable.

What *was* surprising was Madeline's position on the matter. Rather than gloating at the imminent demise of a long time thorn in her side, Madeline actually argued for 'helping' the level five operative. After her confrontation with Lorie all those months ago, Madeline did something she hadn't done in a very long time - she'd let emotion get the better of her. Madeline had thought back to all they had put Michael through over the last seven years and actually felt a twinge of regret. She also felt a sense of pride that Michael had survived and, for the most part, bettered himself. He was *her* creation after all. His skills were unmatched, he *was* the best of all the Sections and the numbers backed that up. For those two reasons Madeline would make sure he wouldn't be lost now. She'd take care of Operations, make sure the cancellation order would not be given and she would let Nikita take care of Michael.

The Brevich mission solved the 'problem.' Nikita's capture brought Michael out of the doldrums. As much as he had wanted to convince himself that he was ready to let go, seeing Nikita captured, mostly due to his uncaring attitude, brought him back. As long as Nikita was alive, he'd make sure to stay alive and protect her, no matter what the personal cost to him. And if she was still willing after all this time, after all his rejections, to have a 'personal' relationship with him, then Michael would 'give in' on that too.

********

Set the night before the teaser scene of "ALL GOOD THINGS."

As Section One's headquarters fell, Michael and Nikita's relationship flourished. Looking back on the events leading up to their current situation, Michael was amazed that they were even on speaking terms, let alone anything more. As Michael lay awake in Nikita's bed while she slept contentedly, Michael reflected back on their relationship and his life, in and out of Section, for the last six years, since Nikita's recruitment.

When Nikita was in training he fought his attraction, for obvious reasons. Michael also fought the knowledge of her innocence of the crime that brought her to Section One. At first he was successful, but her first mission shattered the illusion. By the time he'd told Nikita that the minute he believed her protestations of innocence she was dead, he knew in his heart that she was telling the truth. After Nikita's reaction to killing one of Van Vactor's bodyguards to save his life, Michael finally knew it in his head.

In a way, Michael had told Nikita the truth back in his office. If he had believed her and told her as much, Nikita *was* as good as dead for there was no room for innocence in Section One. That was why he never told her he believed her. Of course, if their relationship continued, he would admit it to her for he wanted as few secrets between them as possible. Now that his *big* secret was out and Nikita did not run 'screaming for the hills' it was easier for the rest of the dam to burst.

After the Van Vactor mission Michael appointed himself Nikita's protector. He may have helped destroy her innocence, but he would make damn sure she would stay alive and perhaps even maintain a part of her soul, something that Michael, in his mind anyway, hadn't been able to accomplish. He'd convinced himself that the bond he felt towards his material was one of mentor and protector. Of course *that* illusion was shattered after the Shays mission.

Michael had let Nikita go, knowing she wouldn't last much longer. She'd be dead soon, whether by her own hands or Section's. He knew that Madeline and Operations were planning something after she failed to execute Shays the first time. Michael knew that the failure would not go unpunished so he prepared for it. Even if she escaped Section's punishment it wouldn't be long before she swallowed a bullet.

So Michael let Nikita go free while he remained in Section, himself tortured because he didn't know if she made it out alive. He didn't know what would be worse, Nikita being dead or her not trusting him enough to reply to his *numerous* messages. A part of him, the proud trainer, hoped that she *was* alive and surviving on her own, free of Section - it was after all what she deserved. It wasn't long after the fiery explosion, once again facing a solitary existence, even Birkoff and Walter now turning away in anger, he'd finally realized and admitted to himself why the solitude was intolerable this time around - he loved Nikita but now it was too late.

Of course, six months later when they 'found' each other, he made mistake after mistake that kept them apart another one and a half years.

Madeline and Operations knew exactly what they were doing when they assigned Nikita to Jurgen for retraining. When he found out, Michael vowed to not let Jurgen come between him and Nikita like the psych op did with Simone. While he somehow survived Simone's loss the first time and Nikita helped him pick up the pieces after her real death, Michael knew that if he lost Nikita, physically or emotionally, not even Adam would have been enough keep him alive.

Unfortunately, Michael was in an untenable position. He knew his future lay with Nikita. He also knew Jurgen still held him responsible for Simone's death. However, as long as Jurgen's blackmail was in effect, Michael couldn't move on him. When he'd told Nikita that she'd 'signed their own death warrants' by telling him the truth, Michael honestly believed that. But he should have known better, Jurgen was a psych op, after all. Jurgen knew Michael did not fear death, almost accepting it as his due, but losing Nikita would destroy Michael more effectively than anything else could.

Jurgen also knew about Michael's blood cover and used it to his advantage. Jurgen trained Michael once and knew his former trainee's personal code of ethics would not allow him to betray even a 'mission' wife, let alone his son. Jurgen knew very well why Michael kept Nikita in the dark and at bay for three years and he also knew very well that Michael would not endanger any of those he cared about, physically or emotionally, by revealing his deep cover assignment to Nikita. Of course, Jurgen didn't know that he'd end up falling for the blonde himself as he had for Simone.

Ironically, it was Nikita's choosing him over Michael after Michael had actually saved his life that set Jurgen onto the road of 'discovery.' He'd finally realized he'd been wrong about his former material on several fronts. He *was* a good man, he really did love Nikita as well as Simone and did what he could to protect them from Section. Even carrying out an inevitably tragic long term blood cover assignment if it meant that he be allowed a Section relationship with the one he *really* loved.

Of course by the time Jurgen finally separated Michael the man from Michael the operative, it was too late. The 'mission' against him had already begun. In the end he couldn't blame Michael. Looking through Michael's eyes Jurgen realized that all Michael could see was Simone all over again. Once again, his former 'bastard' of a trainer was trying to take away the only thing that made life bearable for him. Michael's code of ethics must have been strong, for it drove him to save Jurgen's life on a mission when it would have been far easier and safer to let him die. Jurgen wasn't sure he'd do the same were the positions were reversed.

Michael never knew the *real* reason Jurgen shot him in the leg and died in his place. Michael had honestly believed he would die on that fateful day and resigned himself to it. It would have been best for everyone. Jurgen shooting him and taking his place was a surprise. Perhaps it was Jurgen's attempt at atonement for the past, perhaps Jurgen really *was* sorry for the past. Or perhaps, it was just like Jurgen had said in the van, without his blackmail, he wouldn't survive in Section. At least this way he, not Section, would dictate his death.

After that 'fiasco' Michael wasn't sure Nikita would want *any* kind of a relationship with him. At the time, he'd thought it was a blessing - for both of them. But as time went on, Michael, against his better judgement, had found himself trying to somehow keep Nikita in his life.

Michael pushed and then pulled, made sure Nikita didn't forget him or move on. He accepted her hate, knew he deserved it. He was selfish but he didn't care. He kept telling himself it would be over soon. Vacek would come out of hiding and he would be free. Michael refused to think about Adam and the impact of that separation. Michael knew Adam would eventually be taken away. But he'd made himself believe that it would be for the better. Adam deserved more than Michael would be allowed to give anyway. Besides, at the time, Michael had thoroughly convinced himself that losing Adam wouldn't matter. Michael ruthlessly tramped down any fatherly emotion telling himself he was preparing for their inevitable separation.

Ironically, it was the mission against Adrian that turned Michael's life upside down again.

Facing the very real possibility that despite her performance on the mission, Nikita would be canceled because of her defiance made Michael rethink his life. Of course, he didn't know that an old friend had intervened on Nikita's behalf. As far as Michael was concerned, despite his offers to help her escape, Nikita stood her ground and faced cancellation. He'd steeled himself for Nikita's loss, convincing himself it was the only way for her to truly be free. He'd even said goodbye to her, right there in the middle of Section, belatedly showing how much he really cared.

Nikita's pending cancellation unwittingly brought Michael closer to his son. Resigning himself to losing her, Michael turned to Adam. He'd decided that no matter what the future held for him, he would not waste this precious opportunity. He'd held Nikita at bay, trying to protect her from himself and was losing her anyway. He vowed not to make the same mistake with Adam.

As the weeks went by and Nikita remained alive, Michael held out hope that perhaps she would survive. He'd wanted to tell her about his 'family' but was afraid of her reaction. Nikita showing up on his doorstep was a blessing and a curse. A blessing because his deepest and most painful secret was finally out in the open. A curse because he was causing Nikita even more pain and she'd probably never forgive him.

Michael had misjudged his former material yet again. Of course, at first she was angry, but then, by some miracle, she stayed. Michael didn't understand why for he surely didn't deserve it, but he was grateful nevertheless.

Afterwards of course, Nikita 'convinced' Michael to return to the land of living. He'd almost waited too long and nearly lost her again. His habit of pushing Nikita away for her own protection was a hard one to break, but Nikita had waited.

While they had both been responsible for a few hiccups over the last few months, Michael more than Nikita, they were well on their way to 'recovery.' His part in the mission against Carl Peruze as well as Red Cell's Philo almost shattered their still fragile bond. But, once again, Nikita forgave him. Forgetting was another matter. Michael hoped Nikita would never forget, thereby preparing her better for Section's future insidiousness.

As he finally drifted off to sleep, Michael's last thoughts were of Operations and Madeline and what they would do about his and Nikita's deepening relationship.

********

Michael was only partially correct. Operations and Madeline *were* plotting, but not necessarily against them. On the contrary, the head duo had softened in respect to Michael over the last several months, 'rewarding' him for 'time served' and performance excellence. They were tolerating the deepening relationship between the level five operative and his former material. Operations especially, once again, felt that Michael was the best candidate for his successor. Added to a little guilt, or more likely regret, over the Vacek mission, the 'siamese twins' were feeling lenient for a change.

All that changed when Operations was called to the Center. Leaving Michael in charge had, of course, been a test. Michael's actions, specifically the Bergomi mission, served to anger both Madeline and Operations. Both realized then and there that they were fast losing control of their 'star pupil' and they didn't like it. They also didn't like the fact that Michael and Nikita were possibly even better partners than they were. Neither Operations nor Madeline were ready to 'retire' and this little episode showed them once again why leniency and emotion were intolerable in Section One.

The iron fist and his iron maiden were back. They planned and plotted once again coming up with a tired but true strategy - divide and conquer, forcefully separating the couple, then playing cat and mouse with them until they found the 'perfect' solution - Genefex and Gelman's mind control process. Once again, they underestimated their foe and were forced into a temporary stalemate.

Bringing Helmut Volker into the equation a year ago would have been a permanent solution. But as strong as Michael and Nikita's bond was now, that particular distraction/obstacle was overcome quicker than anticipated. Of course, they still had a hold over both of them with Adam and Elena. Neither operative would forgive themselves should something happen to either Michael's wife or son and knew where to draw the line to ensure mother and son stayed 'protected.'

Operations and Madeline were almost successful in finally getting rid of the troublesome duo, but fate once again intervened, this time in the form of a handful of impudent 'children.'

This constant tug of war they were playing provided a challenge, sometimes welcome, sometimes not, in otherwise predictable (almost boring) day to day activities for the mistress of mind games. Madeline was confident that she had another year, possibly eighteen months before Michael and/or Nikita 'snapped.'

Unfortunately for Madeline, ensuing events would prove her wrong.

********

PRESENT

The ringing of his cell phone shook Michael out of his reverie. Glancing quickly at his watch, Michael realized he'd been sitting for over an hour. Opening his phone, once again focusing on the present, he picked it up on the third ring.

"Yes." Michael spoke, expecting to hear 'Jacques' and a time frame to return to Section.

"Michael, it's Lorie. I need to reschedule. Unexpected delays."

"I understand." Michael replied, not surprised she knew his number.

"It *was* rather short notice anyway. I'll send you the new time and place." Lorie returned, as usual, hanging up without waiting for an answer or explaining how she would contact him.

As Michael exited the bar he once again scanned the perimeter. Finding nothing out of the ordinary he proceeded down the block to his car, debating whether or not to go home or return to Section. With Nikita on a mission and himself unable to sleep, Michael decided to head back to Section to check her status and maybe get some work done with only a skeleton crew around.

By the time Michael sensed the danger, it was too late. He heard a soft sound, a silenced gun unloading, felt a burning sensation in his shoulder and fell into darkness.

********

Lorie knew that even with Michael's tolerance for various drugs she still had thirty minutes or so until the tranquilizer wore off. She smiled to herself at the ease with which her 'guest' had been taken. Of course, she had sensed him as soon as he left the bar, another advantage of one of several 'gifts' she possessed. While she waited, Lorie sat back and tried to reconcile what Michael wanted from her to what had been transpiring at Section One and Oversight recently.

The last time she had seen Michael was less than a year ago, in Oversight. He had been given temporary control of Section while Operations was needed in Center. Unbeknownst to most, that request had come from Omega. He'd decided it was time for a test, both of Operations/Madeline and Michael.

Lorie was still dealing with the aftermath of her own problems. She was still banned from officially working at the Agency, but Omega did allow her to work in Oversight in an advisory position to stave off cabin fever while 'training.' They'd only been able to talk for a minute, but it had been enough for Lorie to see that Michael was content with the way things were going for him. It had also afforded Lorie an opportunity to discover something interesting about her old friend.

As far as Omega was concerned, everyone involved in his little 'play' acted according to his script. There were no surprises. As Omega predicted, after the infamous Bergomi mission relations between his number one Section and Oversight quickly deteriorated. The head of the Agency was aware of all the activities surrounding his two branches.

When Lorie returned to active status she asked her boss why he was allowing this war to continue, but Omega never answered her. All he'd told her was to make sure she stayed out of it. For once Lorie didn't argue. She had good friends on both sides and didn't want to get in the middle of it anyway.

When Lorie received Michael's message, she was hesitant to answer. Section One was seceding from Oversight and Lorie would not aid Michael in that cause. Yes, he was a good friend, but no more so than George. If Section One succeeded in breaking away, it would cost George his job and possibly his life.

Lorie knew her boss very well. Omega would not accept failure of this magnitude and would clean house in the aftermath. He'd ruthlessly bring Section One back under Oversight's control and then get rid of any and all responsible for this breakdown. That included everyone involved from either branch, from Mr. Jones all the way down to Section recruits.

Lorie vowed not to let that happen. While she knew losses in the anti-terrorist community were expected, she would not lose *all* her friends in one fell swoop. If Michael had come to ask for help, she *would* listen. Lorie had brought Michael back to her place, but she wasn't worried. If the discussion went well then there would be no reason to hide where she lived from a trusted friend. If the discussion did *not* go well, then Michael would never have the opportunity to tell anyone where she lived.

********

Michael awoke to unfamiliar surroundings and felt the handcuffs on his wrists, effectively chaining him to the headboard. He feigned unconsciousness in the hopes of getting his bearings, but the woman in the chair beside the bed wasn't fooled.

"I know you're awake." Lorie stated.

"Why?" Michael opened his eyes, immediately recognizing the voice.

"That's my question." Lorie returned.

"Where do you want me to start?" Michael stifled a sigh, knowing that although they were friends, he'd have to tread carefully if he wanted Lorie's help.

"From the beginning?" Lorie smiled wryly. "Tell me what you want, just the truth, no embellishments, please."

"I want a life." Michael replied.

"A life." Lorie returned with upraised eyebrows, surprised at the answer. "And my involvement?"

"I need a copy of the Key File."

"No. I will not let Section One destroy George. Furthermore if this war between Section One and Oversight escalates any further The Agency *will* end it and cancel *everyone* involved. Personally, I think that would be a waste."

"I know. I want it to end too."

"Well, I'm glad we agree on something, anyway." Lorie hedged, still unsure as to how the Key File would fit in to do anything other than destroy George and further Operations' agenda.

"Perhaps on more than you think."

"So where does the Key File fit in? Better yet, you obviously have a plan, so let's hear it, from the beginning." Lorie paused. "No, the cuffs stay, for now." She added, in answer to his unspoken plea.

"I don't want Oversight. I want Section One. I have the Gemstone File and the Directory." Michael paused, knowing Lorie was familiar with the items he mentioned and giving her time to accept his revelation. Michael understood he had only one chance to get out of wherever he was alive. He just hoped that Lorie would believe the truth *and* want to help.

"Go on." Lorie commanded, not betraying any surprise at Michael's revelation.

"The Gemstone File will ensure that Operations' and Madeline's old allies will not interfere. The Directory will ensure the rest of the Sections' cooperation. And the Key File will ensure George's cooperation."

"How do you know George wouldn't back your coup?"

"He might. But I won't be his puppet and I need insurance against any repercussions." Michael paused, wanting Lorie to understand that she would not be endangering George's job by helping. "I understand your hesitation. There is an alternative."

"Which is?" Lorie prompted.

"*You* access the file and obtain enough information for someone to question whether or not the file has been breached."

"Your end game isn't George's copy, it's Operations' copy." Lorie stated, realization dawning. "Then you'd hold all the cards."

"Enough cards to ensure a fair chance as head of Section One, yes. Operations and Madeline will no longer have any hold over George. However, the Key File undoubtedly contains damaging intel against me as well. George and I would effectively be at a stalemate."

"Why now?" Lorie asked, giving Michael the opening he had been waiting for.

"How close is your surveillance of Section One and Oversight?" Michael asked.

"What makes you think I keep tabs on either?"

"Don't you?" Michael returned rhetorically.

"Ok, ok." Lorie smiled ruefully. "Enough to see that something *does* need to be done. Convince me yours is the way to go."

Michael proceeded to do something he hadn't done in a long time, not since Simone died, the first time. He shared everything - his past and present pain, his hopes and plans for the future. He knew Lorie was not as embittered and her life held much less pain. Lorie wasn't the only one who kept tabs on old friends. Michael knew she worked for Omega and the relatively normal life that was permitted for higher echelon Agency personnel.

Michael was not jealous. On the contrary, he knew the best way to effectively change day to day procedures and policies was from the trenches. Power was not his goal - change was, change for the better. Besides, Nikita as well as other people he still cared about were prisoners of Section One and always would be and he would never abandon them.

Lorie hadn't told Michael just how close an eye she had kept on her old colleagues. She already knew most of Michael's past as well as his present 'working' environment. Her mini-interrogation served only as confirmation of his 'worthiness' and readiness to succession. Michael definitely had what it took to be Operations. Now Lorie was sure that he'd do a good job. With his friends behind him, there was little chance power would corrupt him as it did the current regime.

Lorie knew she shouldn't interfere, but she figured Omega wouldn't mind. Omega knew Lori was keeping tabs, he also knew she'd have to interfere at some point. If he hadn't wanted her to do it, he'd have stopped her long before this. Omega was a smart man, he'd get what he wanted - a new Section leader (the current one was outliving his usefulness, perhaps had begun his downward spiral as far back as soon after the end of the Cold War), without anyone being the wiser that it was his intention all along. Lorie had no illusions about her boss, though. Had things not progressed the way he wanted them to, Omega *would* get his hands dirty and take care of the problem personally. Of course that scenario would cost far more lives than Michael's little coup.

"So all you need from me is a little intel?"

"Will you do it?" Michael asked, ignoring Lorie's question for the moment.

"If I say no, then what?"

"I'll think of something else."

"And that's it? You're not worried about my 'knowing too much'?"

"No." Michael replied. "You won't betray my confidence."

"I'm not a priest and this isn't confession. What makes you so sure I won't?" Lorie asked, her decision already made, but curious as to Michael's answer.

"Your loyalties lie with George and me. My profile does not harm George. You don't like the way Section is run either, you haven't since Operations took over. He and Madeline tried to kill you because of it."

"True." Lorie conceded, walking over to the bed and unlocking the cuffs. "I'm glad *you* finally saw the light, I was beginning to worry." Lorie released Michael and stepped back, allowing him to sit up. "Alright, agreed."

"There *is* something else I need from you." Michael stated solemnly, rubbing the circulation back into his wrists.

"Pushy, aren't you?" Lorie returned, only half joking. "What else?"

"I need to know that Elena and Adam will be safe." Michael replied, his voice almost cracking at the mention of his son.

"But, he's not..." Lorie stopped herself before she blurted out the truth about Adam's parentage. "I mean, do you think Operations would do something to Adam, considering how he lost his own son?" Lorie recovered quickly.

"Operations might not, but Madeline would." Michael replied, not catching Lorie's little faux pas.

"You're right, she would. What do you want me to do?"

"Find them and protect them. From Section and from me."

"Michael..."

"It's for the best. *Nobody* will be able to use them again."

"Alright." Lorie agreed, stunned at the level of trust he was extending her. "Give me forty eight hours, I promise you, no one will find them. I can even safely give you five days, until then no-one will know they're missing. Is that enough?"

"Yes." Michael replied, relieved, expecting only three days head start. "What about Omega?"

"I said *no one* and I meant it." Lorie reiterated forcefully, knowing how much this was costing the man who never trusted anyone.

"Thank you." Michael returned, knowing that asking Lorie to do this showed more than any words could how much faith and trust he was putting into their friendship.

"We still have some time, my turn for some questions."

Knowing he owed his first real Section One friend at least that much, Michael nodded, giving Lorie permission to continue.

"One for one?" Michael asked before Lorie began.

"So many questions, so little time." Lorie nodded while contemplating aloud before settling on a tactical question first, to break the 'ice.' "Why not use Adrian?"

"Without her memory, I have no proof. With her memory, Nikita is implicated." Michael replied, somehow not surprised at her knowledge of Adrian's continued existence. "Where are we?"

"My place." Lorie answered, then at Michael's upraised eyebrows added. "Very few people know about *this* place, you're the only one I've ever worked for or with who knows. Omega respects that I need this 'sanctuary.' How did you know I can get the Key File."

"Your personal relationship with George is on far better terms than Omega's so I'm sure you're aware of where it is. Your breaking and entering skills are exceptional." Michael replied, deliberately omitting how he'd come upon this information. "What would have happened if I hadn't convinced you?"

"You would not have returned to Section." Lorie answered, deliberately omitting whether or not she would have actually canceled him. "Elena and Adam?"

"You're the only one with the resources to keep them from harm that I trust. I missed you tonight. How?" Michael asked, still somewhat upset at himself for being caught so off guard.

"Would you believe I 'sensed' you?"

"Section Four."

"That's two for one." Lorie continued, not *exactly* lying. "Alright, essentially yes, Section Four. What took so long, why not act sooner?"

"Operations was a good leader and Madeline was good *for him,* personally and professionally." Michael finally said. "Neither one was the same without the Cold War."

"That's not what I meant and you know it. Why say 'uncle' now?"

"It wasn't just about me anymore."

"Ah." Lorie replied, understanding that Michael would have taken just about any kind of punishment as his due for past, present and future sins. What he couldn't stand anymore was the toll it was taking on his friends, Nikita especially.

"Where did you disappear to?" Michael's turn.

"I was injured." Lorie skirted the issue, prepared for the question, knowing Michael would have kept tabs. "I was off active duty for a few months."

"Your numbers show a quick recovery."

"My numbers, huh? And how would you know about my numbers?"

"I hear things." Michael replied cryptically.

"Why am I not surprised?" Lorie returned.

"Same reason I'm not surprised at your 'extensive' knowledge."

"You know, it's a good thing we're on the same side." Lorie stated, a half smile gracing her lips.

"Yes, it is." Michael returned, his own lips twitching at the corners.

Fifteen minutes later Michael drove his car away from Lorie's 'hideaway.' Each was left with a new respect, understanding and trust of the other. Unbeknownst to either, someone was watching from the shadows outside the gated house. Watching and recording.

********

As had been customary for the last eight years, Operations and Madeline were sitting down to a breakfast prepared by Christopher and discussing past, current and future events.

"Davenport's performance and numbers continue to improve." Operations noted, looking at his screen.

"Yes, he's coming along as expected." Madeline reported. "However, as I've told you before, he will achieve at best, level five and even then, not in a suitable time frame." Madeline finished, knowing where Operations' thoughts were leading and dissuading him from them.

As much as either one of them loathed to admit it, they needed Michael. Ironically, now even more. With George on the warpath, constantly breathing down their necks, they could not afford to falter. The slightest drop in efficiency and George would come storming in to take over. They had looked at all the numbers and realized losing Michael was not an option at this time. Without him and by extension Nikita, their numbers *would* drop. Significantly.

However, just because they needed Michael, it didn't mean that they would make it easy on him. Operations and Madeline were in a very delicate position in regards to keeping their top operative on a leash. Bottom line was a careful balance. Just enough pressure to keep him in line and distracted. Too much pressure might make him desperate. Desperate enough to take measures. Of course, if they were wrong about his and Nikita's tolerance levels, there was always the last resort to keep him and his friends in line - Adam and Elena. It was something they didn't *want* to use, but would, if push came to shove.

"Too bad. Keep looking. As soon as another suitable candidate emerges we won't need Michael." Operations paused. "Of course, Adrian *will* be found before then."

"Of course." Madeline confirmed, mentally preparing a list of candidates she'd investigate over the next three months, a self imposed deadline. Three months gave Madeline plenty of time to make sure that said candidate was suitable to take over Michael's duties. It would also give them time to find Adrian and remove her as a threat before moving against Michael. They were close to finding the older woman, very close.

********

Two days and one mission later, Michael and Lorie met up again, this time at a non-descript diner in a lower middle class neighborhood. This time it was Lorie who was waiting for Michael, in a back booth. They were meeting at an optimal time. The dinner crowd was thinning out, but not so much as they would be noticed anymore than the other patrons. The smaller crowd also better enabled to see if they were being followed. 'Well, at least by somebody other than my perpetual shadow.' Lorie thought.

Upon his arrival, Michael and Lorie exchanged small smiles at this reversal, Lorie waiting for him and neither worried about the other's agenda. Both understood that trust between them would not be questioned again.

"Is it done?" Michael immediately asked, upon sitting down.

"Greetings to you too."

"Sorry." Michael smiled ruefully.

"It's ok. I understand." Lorie replied, then grew quiet as the waitress approached.

After their order was placed, the waitress left and the two sat quietly again until she returned with their coffees. Once she poured the coffee and left, they restarted their conversation.

"It's done." Lorie started, knowing that Michael, despite his outward appearance was worried. "Adam and Elena have been moved. I'm the only one who knows where."

"Thank you." Michael replied sincerely.

"You're welcome." Lorie returned, sliding a microdisc across the table.

"What's this?" asked Michael, pocketing the disc and watching as the waitress returned to their booth, forestalling Lorie's answer.

"Here you go." The chipper waitress sang, placing the food on the table. "Just holler if you need anything else." She finished, slipping the bill underneath Michael's plate and moving to a table in the front in response to a summons from another customer.

"The Key File." Lorie replied once the waitress was on her way.

"Why?" Michael asked, genuinely curious and surprised.

"You trusted me with Adam's life. The least I can trust you with is a file. Besides, you'll have Operations' anyway. This is just in case you're unable to retrieve Operations' copy without destroying it."

"I take it you had no such problem with George's?"

"Let's just say some of my friend's toys would have Walter salivating." Lorie paused. "I wouldn't have done it if I didn't trust you. As much as I...disagree with Operations' method of operation, he did, and still does, the best he knows how. He served long and hard. I'd rather his future be in your hands than George's."

"Thank you." Michael replied, solemnly and sincerely, appreciating Lorie's implicit trust and the fact that she understood why Michael didn't just cancel his superior outright, justified as he may have been be to do so.

"What information from the File are you going to use to convince them to check their copy?" Lorie inquired, then at Michael's surprised look elaborated. "You may have just received a copy of the Key File, but I'm sure you've known for some time what's in it."

"You're right," Michael conceded. "However, Adam and Elena's disappearance alone may trigger their response. Otherwise, I have a few ideas." Michael replied cryptically and with a slight smile. "One question?"

"I thought we covered them all the other day." Lorie sighed. "What the hell, what's one more?"

"You've known about Adrian all along, why not tell George yourself?" Michael asked, genuinely puzzled.

"You mean other than the fact that Omega would have my head for interfering by tattling?"

"Somehow, I hadn't seen it being traced back to you."

"Good point, untraceable has always been my motto." Lorie smiled. "Truthfully, it would have started a war neither side could've won. I'm on your side because it's the right one, Michael. Friendship or not, I wouldn't have helped otherwise. At this point it's also the only way there will be peace between Section One and Oversight without the Agency intervening." Lorie finished, warning Michael he'd better move fast, before the Agency *did* step in. If the Agency had to intervene, casualties would be *very* high, on both sides. The Agency took no prisoners, Omega would start over with completely new personnel. Neither George nor Michael and his friends would survive.

********

Not one to waste valuable time or sit back on the defensive, Michael decided to go to Operations rather than wait for the older man to come to him with accusations regarding Adam and Elena's disappearance. It was late the next evening and Michael made sure his co-conspirators were out of Section and the immediate line of fire. Madeline was gone as well but Operations remained behind, as per Michael's plans. He'd given the older man intel earlier and knew his superior would be in his office for quite a while sorting the data. After almost a decade of working for him, Michael knew his superior well. Operations' paranoia and thirst for power would dictate his reviewing intel of high importance himself before consulting Madeline so Michael made sure his intel was 'juicy' enough for Operations to want to handle himself. Throwing a bone about a possible weakness in Oversight, and George in particular, was the easiest way to go. As Michael neared Operations' aerie, he prepared for his most important mission to date.

"Michael to see you sir." A disembodied voice informed Operations through the intercom.

"Send him in." A mildly surprised Operations replied, standing up from his desk and walking over to his favorite position, the window overlooking Comm. For some reason, unexplainable even to him he dimmed the windows before leaning back and turning around to face the man in black entering the aerie.

"Yes?" Operations asked, as Michael came forward to stand a few feet away from him, gloved hands clasped in front, in his usual manner, but holding a microdisc. A visit from Michael was certainly not uncommon, but Operations, for some reason even he couldn't understand, was immediately on guard.

"There's something you need to see." Michael replied, moving over to Operations and handing him the disc.

"What is this?" Operations asked, taking the disc and slipping it into the terminal nearest him. Expecting more intel on Oversight, Operations was completely unprepared for what was actually on the disc.

"I believe it's self explanatory." Michael calmly replied, no expression evident on his blank face.

"I'll grant you the Directory and Gemstone, but the Key File? You're bluffing. This isn't conclusive." Operations retorted, unnecessarily pointing to the screen, *his* expression one of disbelief and anger, annoyed once again at how successful Madeline had been in teaching Michael to show nothing outwardly. For all his emotion and demeanor Michael could have been discussing the weather, no way to tell whether or not he was bluffing. Operations knew that of the three, the Key File was most important to the continuation of his and Madeline's reign - it was the only hold they had over George. Without George they did not have enough backing in Oversight to stay in command and the threat of the Gemstone File and Directory would suffice to keep their allies at bay. But he had to bluffing, didn't he?

"I disagree. Other than the file in question, Madeline and Jurgen were the only ones with *all* the intel. Jurgen has been dead for two years." A still serene Michael returned, implying that had Jurgen somehow fed him (or Nikita) the data, Michael would have used the intel sooner. Madeline, he didn't even bother mentioning as she would never have betrayed Operations by disclosing to anyone the damaging information.

"Why? You know what the consequences of your actions are going to be." Operations' thought process and survival instinct finally kicked in, hinting at the repercussions Michael's 'wife' and 'son' would suffer.

"That's no longer viable." Michael returned quietly, still giving nothing away.

"Meaning what?"

"Meaning *you* will not find them."

"That's impossible." Operations fumed, knowing that Adam's safety was one thing Michael would *not* bluff about. As far as the Key File, Directory and Gemstone, well that was a different story.

"As we've both seen, your arrangements for their 'protection' were not foolproof. I've taken steps to ensure their safety, from *all* parties." Michael returned, not raising his voice, unlike Operations. Michael knew that as soon as he left Operations would call Madeline and then check on Adam and Elena while he waited for his second-in-command to arrive.

"You're bluffing. You don't have the files."

"I'll return for your answer in six hours."

"Answer to what?"

"Voluntary resignation or forceful removal by Oversight. Your choice." Michael replied quietly but with a steel edge, already turning to exit the aerie, gloved hands returning to his side. "Of course if there are *any* unusual deaths or cancellations in the interim, I have failsafes." Michael finished, knowing no further elaboration was necessary. Operations knew the choices. 'Retire' and be reassigned quietly and peacefully, or be forced into it. The information he'd gathered would ensure Operations and Madeline would not have anyone standing behind them in a face off. Of course, it all hinged on how deliberately believable or unbelievable his performance had been. Within a few hours he'd know if his acting skills served him well again. If he'd succeeded in planting just enough doubt to convince his superiors that they had to make absolutely sure he didn't have their copy of the Key File thereby effectively pinning them against the wall.

********