For a moment, Fahraddi thought he had experienced a divine revelation, a vision so wonderful it could not be true. A half mile ahead, rolling over a raised track, a green diesel engine, pulling a single tank car and carrying a score of soldiers, emerged from the forest to the left of the highway. It split two brightly flashing warning gates and disappeared into the woods on the right.
Merda laughed triumphantly. "That's it!" he cried. "That's our target!" Then, on further thought, he added, "Isn't it?"
Fahraddi struggled to control his breathing. His eyes read glee and madness. "Yes, my friend," he said, "That's it."
"Shall I pass these cars?" Merda was referring to the short line of vehicles waiting for the train to disappear ahead.
"No, no," Fahraddi spoke intently. "Don't make any f
