"Yes, but hopefully down deep toward the bottom. I like our chances."

​

Santana watched the blood drain from Miss Davis's face as she looked down at the drop and the stream below. She felt her own legs weaken as she studied the movement of the river. No rocks appeared on the surface. Just the dark, swirling water of a hopefully deep pool.

​

Bess Davis said, "I've heard they nicknamed the Middle Fork of the Salmon the River of No Return."

​

Santana smiled at the irony. It impressed her that the President's sister knew the name of the river. Most East Coast folks don't even know where Idaho is on the map.

​

The comment, with death coming at them from above and possibly from below, gave Santana hope. Power surged back into her legs, and her head cleared as their next move sharpened in her mind.

​

Gunfire exploded behind them. Rounds ripped through the aspen trees, showering them with bits of leaves and splintered bark. Santana jumped up and fired at their attackers up the slope. She squeezed off shots as fast as her trigger finger could pull. Two clicks confirmed the drum magazine was empty. She had no more ammo.

​

Chang and his men had taken cover, giving the women enough time. With their left feet on the edge of the cliff, Santana grabbed Bess Davis's hand.

​

Staring at the dark water below, she said, "Ready, jump!"