"Yeah." Charlie smiled. "Nanako has plenty of influence in Japan, and she definitely is privy to anything big Japan is doing in Antarctica."

Then, while gesturing for the three ladies to return to the research station, he called Nanako on his satellite phone.

Nanako sounded chipper when she answered. "Are you calling me from Antarctica right now, Mr. Wade?"

"Yes," Charlie smiled. "We're just walking back under the aurora."

"How romantic," Nanako sighed. "Is there something you need?"

Charli