at.46 by Dick Stivers

regarding the Phi-Chau Gang and Truong’s connection to them. At least now we know who we’re dealing with, Lyons thought to himself as he ripped the fax paper to shreds. “What’s up, Chief?” the taller female asked as she inspected Haley Klein, who, in turn, checked out the Asian woman. “This matter I’m about to bring before you is of the highest priority,” the senior detective said. “National security is involved. Now I’m not going to delve into specifics, but remember that nothing discussed in this room today leaves this room. Ever. Comprende?” “Understood,” they all said, nodding routinely. A portable chalkboard stood between the strangers and the investigators. The chief of detectives flipped it over. All eyes darted to the two groups of words: Bay Sao Cai Den Tho Hoa Son Khau Cai Vinh Anh Trang “Does the first line mean anything to any of you?” “Tell us what it would mean to a Vietnamese,” Lyons added as he stared at the combination of words. “Sure,** Detective Pham said, nodding. “The Temple of Seven Stars.” I‘That’s all?** Lyons demanded. “The Temple of Seven Stars?’’. “Yes, sir. The line below it seems to be the Vietnamese equivalent of Crater Bay and Moonlight. Though I’m sure the writer meant Moonbeam, not Moonlight.” “There’s no precise translation for moonbeam in Vietnamese,” Detective Lu reminded her. “Yes, of course. You’re right, Wendy.” “Crater Bay and Moonlight, or Moonbeam,” Lyons said, scratching at the stubble on his chin as he pondered the three words. “I w