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They broke into three groups and scuttled up the dunes Rand’s squad would take the workers’ quarters, Weir’s the radio and control rooest, would rendezvous with Greer’s to secure the Ar would be

Michael pressed the radio to hison your signal"

The refinery was protected by a two-tiered fence line with guard towers; the reauntlet of trip-wire h the gate Greer would lead the frontal assault using a tanker truck equipped with a plow A pair of trucks full of men would follow A pickup at the rear, arrenade launcher, would dispense with the towers if need be Michael’s orders were to avoid casualties if possible, but if it came to that…

The teams dispersed at a quick step Michael and hisQuonset hut with doors front and rear They were expecting fifty well-aro"

"Teaer that"

Michael checked his watch: 0450 He looked at Patch, who nodded

Michael raised his flare gun and fired A popping flash and the coht and shadow A second later, Patch launched the gas canister froate, and then a crash as the seun to sift under the door of the barracks As it flew open, Michael’sfire into the dirt The fleeing soldiers lurched backward in confusion Moreand sputtering

"On your knees! Drop your weapons! Hands on your heads!"

The soldiers had nowhere to run; onto their knees they went

"Everyone, report"

"Team two, secure"

"Lucius?"

"No casualties Headed your way"

"Team one?"

Michael’s men had moved forward to wrap the soldiers’ wrists and ankles with heavy cord Most were still coughing, a few vorainy crackle of static; then, a voice, not Rand’s: "Secure"

"Where’s Rand?"

A pause, followed by laughter "You’ll have to give him a minute That woman sure packs a wallop"