I already had my tactical vest and dark utilities in the trunk of my car.

I drove back toward Fort Liberty to change and prepare.

My quarters at the base were quiet.

I laid out the gear on the small metal desk.

I cleaned my service weapon, checking the slide and the spring.

I loaded a full magazine but did not chamber a round yet.

I wanted to avoid violence if possible.

This was a reconnaissance and retrieval mission.

I checked the time.

It was 0230 hours.

The deepest part of the night, when human alertness was at its lowest.

I pulled on the black cargo pants and the dark long-sleeved shirt.

I laced up my combat boots.

I looked at my face in the small mirror above the sink.

I looked tired.

The lines around my eyes were deeper than they had been a week ago.

But my hands were steady.

I drove back toward Charlotte, taking the back roads to avoid any traffic cameras on the main highway.

The rain started as I crossed the county line.