Acts of Sedition

by Dennis Stephan

  Ahmad paused for effect to see if he’d receive any opinions from his cabinet. There were none as everyone sat stoically and listened. Ahmad continued. “I’m starting to believe that these reports of possible actions against my administration are more than rumors. I’ve had intelligence people from the NSA and CIA monitoring email, text, and chat room banter to see if they could find any threats. So far they’ve only uncovered some planned protests and the rantings of a few random malcontents who hate me but seem to be just letting off steam. Every president has had to be vigilant about these same types of threats and, as a general rule; they turn out to be little people pretending to be more than they are. I am concerned about why someone would target my chief of staff, though. Can anyone speculate as to why someone would target Omar, and not another key official?”

  In an attempt to throw them off, Tarif was the first to speak.

  “Mr. President, Omar has had some problems of late. After breaking his back in a car accident a few years ago, he was on a daily regimen of Neuvomorphine for pain. I’ve seen him taking these pills, and while I hate to talk about someone who cannot defend himself, we have to ask ourselves if this was not a drug-related shooting.”

  Nice try but it didn’t work as the Secretary of Defense spoke up.

  “Mr. President,” started Hakim. “I can’t believe that this was a drug-related shooting. Most of us have read or heard about drug deals gone bad. Has anyone ever heard of someone being shot with a high-powered rifle over a drug problem? This act was carried out by a well-trained marksman using an assault rifle from a distance. Does that sound like the work of a drug lord?”

  Syed Rashad chimed in. “I tend to agree with Hakim, Mr. President. I would suspect that this was simply a matter of opportunity. Omar played tennis every Wednesday like clockwork. On most days, his behavior patterns, like most of ours, were somewhat random. But every Wednesday Omar left at the same time, 4:25 pm, like clockwork. The one thing I can’t help but think is that either the gunman was sending you a message, Mr. President, or that Omar was only the first and that this is part of a bigger conspiracy to kill each of us as the opportunity presents itself.”

  “Thank you, Syed,” said the president. “My thoughts have run along similar lines; which is why I’ve assigned each of you a Secret Service Agent for the next few weeks. In keeping with our current policies and procedures, Gentlemen, we do not intend to release this prisoner. He’s admitted to the shooting so we’ll keep interrogating him until we can find out if he was acting alone or in tandem with others, and if it was the Mafia behind this killing or something bigger still. The CIA and NSA will continue monitoring all electronic and phone conversations in our major cities for any clues to the possible subversive activity going on. Does anyone have any questions?”

  After a moment of silence, the president moved on.

  “Closely related to this is the need for a story bigger than this that will take the press and the American public off the trail of this one. As you all know, Saeed traveled to the Middle East recently to speak to several of our allies there. After consulting with him about his trip, I’ve decided that next month, the United States will be entering into a reciprocal intelligence gathering and protection agreement with both Syria and Iran. Initially, each country will deploy several military units to the other two countries with current military installations housing the foreign military. The first deployment will include both Syrian and Irani infantry units coming to the US to be stationed at Ft Belvoir in VA. Both countries will also deploy several fighter squadrons which we will house at Andrews AFB and several other bases. The Syrian agreement will be signed on May 5th in Damascus. On the following day, I will be in Tehran, to sign a similar agreement with Iran. I believe that my actions may result in strained relations with Israel, but I also believe that these agreements will strengthen our relationships in the Middle East and help us should there be any real domestic threats. My press secretary has called a 3 pm press conference during which I’ll announce the new bi-lateral agreements.”

  “That’s all I have,” said the president. “If no one has anything else, we’re adjourned. Please pick up your assignment envelopes on the back table as you leave. I’d like you to do your best to maintain your daily routines as if nothing has happened. Thank you for coming.”

  Chapter 46

  After work, several members of the cabinet met for dinner at Zaytinya, one of the city’s best Middle Eastern restaurants. The restaurant was noisy but the food was good and it gave them a chance to talk informally as no one seemed to know, or care, who they were. They managed to find an out of the way table along an outside wall where they’d be able to carry on a conversation.

  While some declined, thinking it disrespectful to Omar’s memory, a few wanted to speak in his honor and to celebrate Tarif’s promotion. Tom Hilton and Larry Richter would have preferred a restaurant with a bar but since Tarif and Hakim joined them, they settled on an eatery that they would all enjoy.

  Tom was the first to speak. “So, what do you make of this new plan, Hakim?”

  “I think it makes sense. We have strong ties with both now, you know, and it’s good to work together. It helps build strong relations and enables everyone to share information and strategies.”

  “So you aren’t concerned at all?”

  “Not really. You never know when you’ll need a helping hand. I know our department has been helping others for many years.”

  “I don’t know. Maybe it’s a good idea but the boss seems a little on edge lately. What do you think Larry?”

  “I haven’t noticed anything out of the ordinary but you men are in his company a lot more than I am.”

  Hakim rejoined the conversation. “I think he feels that there are people who want him to fail and who are willing to act to make sure that he does. He’s always been concerned because of his heritage so this is not new.”

  “I’m worried that he’s focused on the wrong things. He’s micromanaging and isn’t seeing the big picture,” said Tom. “What was discussed today is a very big deal and he doesn’t seem the least bit concerned about the ramifications.”

  “I wouldn’t worry. I know the boss better than most”, said Tarif, “and now that I’ve been promoted, I’ll be even closer and better able to help him. He’s under a lot of pressure but he can handle it.” He hoped that he had calmed his coworker’s fears without letting on that he had the same concerns. Fortunately, they all had a strong allegiance to the president and Tarif hoped that their loyalty would be justified

  He then changed the subject to more mundane issues as they talked over coffee. When the check arrived Tarif reached but Hakim picked it up. “Oh no, we invited you to dinner. This is our treat.”

  Tom and Larry kicked in their portion and bid their coworkers good night.

  On their way out, Tom suggested a drink at a local bar. The place was nearly empty, which was good. That meant they wouldn’t have to encrypt their speech as they did in the restaurant.

  “I can no longer support this president,” started Tom. I have never in my life heard of anything as ludicrous as this. What are people going to think about working so closely with two countries that until a year ago were our enemies?” he said. “I have no idea what he’s doing. I’m not even sure he does. You aren’t around him that much Larry but, trust me, he’s losing it.”

  “You’re right, I’m not but I’ve heard the rumors. People are starting to question his motives and state of mind. Is it true that he’s carrying a pistol wherever he goes and that he’s insisting that everyone who comes to the White House be interrogated by the Secret Service?”

  “No,” Tom laughed. “As bad as it is, it’s not quite that bad. But he’s definitely more paranoid. You know he was ok until the assassination attempts but now no one is beyond suspicion. I wish there was some way that we could restore the presidency to what it once was. I was always proud of our way of life and I, for one, would like to see a return to those ways. ”
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  “I agree with you Tom and this has to stay between us,” said Larry, “but I’m concerned enough that I’ve considered going back into the private sector. I’ve spoken to a few headhunters on the QT. I have to be careful though. If the president finds out, he may add me to the disloyal column.”

  “No doubt about that. You’d better be extra careful because lately he’s had eyes and ears on everyone. I just hope that things calm down and maybe this whole joint exercise thing goes away. I don’t see the point in it, to be honest, but you can’t argue with the president.”

  “That’s for sure. Let’s keep each other in loop on what is going on. I don’t know where all of this is headed or even who we can trust, but I’d like to know that if things start to unravel, we could at least count on each other.”

  “Sure thing.”

  They finished their drinks and said their goodbyes as if they weren’t going to see each other again. Of course the following day they’d be back at work for the president. Only, after the past two days, they’d be more vigilant and from now on they were confidants who had each other’s back.

  Chapter 47

  Tommy Whitehead was a good soldier. He had been loyal to General Redmond since serving in his command at Ft. Bragg and again in several overseas assignments. The general was a man of integrity and someone Tommy admired.

  His boss in the Secret Service, Sadeem Ali, considered him to be a good friend. In fact Tommy had been his best man. But Sadeem was a masochist of extreme proportions and not someone that Tommy looked up to. Respect was something that was earned and there was no doubt in Tommy’s mind which of the two deserved his respect and loyalty.

  His job right now was to keep an eye on the prisoner. He knew Ronnie Tartaglione by reputation and had been standing outside the interrogation room while agents grilled Ronnie. Tommy sat across from Ronnie. Neither said a word.

  One of the other agents came in.

  “Do you need a break? If you want to step out for a smoke or something, I can cover for you.”

  Tommy stepped outside and put on his cell phone projection bracelet, one of the Secret Service’s new gadgets that turned your arm into a touch screen. It worked like the old smartphones, only it projected images onto the inside of his forearm, allowing him to send messages and make calls.

  “General, this is Tommy. We have Ronnie in custody, and it doesn’t look good.”

  “How’s he holding up?”

  “Not well, General.” He’s remained silent over the past day despite some very intense interrogation, but he looks bad. He said he’d been hired by the Mafia. I’m not sure anyone believes that bullshit.”

  “What’s the next step?”

  “They’ve waterboarded him, Sir. The plan is to keep him in a room, shackled to the desk and not let him sleep. Then they’re going to go at him several times overnight and possibly place rats in the room. If he doesn’t break, they expect to do more waterboarding in the morning. I don’t think he’s going to be able to withstand that kind of torture, Sir.”

  “It sounds like we need to act. Is there any way to get him out?”

  “No Sir. I’ll be close by overnight, but other people are working here.”

  “Are you up for this Tommy? It’s a lot to ask and I wouldn’t if it wasn’t important. It’s damned important.”

  “Yes, Sir, I understand.”

  “Thanks, Tommy.”

  Tommy pushed the end image on his arm and went back upstairs.

  Ronnie was alone in the room now, and there was a single agent outside his door.

  “What the plan?” Tommy asked the agent.

  “I’m done my shift so I’m heading out. Nothing has changed except they probably don’t bring in rats. Somebody mentioned maybe throwing some roaches, but no one thinks that will break this guy. Captain Leary just left. You’ll be alone with him until around 3 when you’ll be relieved. He’s shackled and not going anywhere. Take a few shots at interrogating him but mostly make sure he doesn’t fall asleep. They want him up all night. Agent Holloway is downstairs working if you need a break. And of course, the night shift supervisor, Captain Eberhart’s here. Ok, that’s it for me. I’m outta here.”

  “Got it. Thanks”

  Tommy stood outside for a time until all of the day shift had left. Then he went inside to talk to Ronnie.

  “Hey, Ronnie how are you doing?”

  Exhausted, Ronnie said he was hanging in.

  Tommy chatted for a while pretending to interrogate Ronnie. Then he hit him with some tough questions and tried to trick him up. He was so tired that it almost worked. Tommy went at him several ways. Ronnie didn’t give up anything, but Tommy had been through this many times. He knew that Ronnie was a good sniper, but he also knew that he had never been through an interrogation like this. He would not make it.

  Tommy went in and out several times. He was supposed to keep the prisoner awake, but he figured what the hell. He’d give the guy some peace. He grappled with the idea of an escape but while there were only a few detectives in the building, the perimeter was heavily guarded.

  Finally, around 2 am, Tommy reentered the room to find Ronnie with his head down on the desk trying to sleep. Tommy smacked him on the top of the head. Ronnie looked up and saw the silencer on the end of the 357sig. He closed his eyes.

  Chapter 48

  Two days after the killing of Omar Khalid, The Nationalists from Philadelphia arrived at Saul’s Jewish center in Queens for their meeting with the general and Rabbi Rudzinsky. Instead of using Teleview on the computer to include Qasim and Makim, they joined this meeting in person and for the first time, all of the leaders from the three primary metro areas on the east coast were on hand.

  Josh sat at one end of a long table with Saul and Aaron in the two seats to his right. At the other end sat Angela, Tony, and Nicky on one side of the table. Opposite them sat Qasim and Makim. Joanne Shapiro, who was in attendance to take minutes, sat alone in a chair in a corner behind Josh.

  “Welcome,” started Josh. “It’s nice that everyone can meet Qasim and Makim in person. And I’d like to extend a special welcome to Tarif Mansour, the newly appointed White House chief of staff. Much has happened since our last meeting a few days ago, and I would like to bring you all up to speed.”

  Josh gave everyone an overview of what had been planned starting with the strategy to get Tarif into a key position and including the hiring of Ronnie Tartaglione and his background and skills before pausing for comments.

  Saul sat upright, saying nothing. Josh could only imagine what was racing through his mind. He sensed the uneasiness in the room as he continued.

  “We owe a great deal of gratitude to Saul for coming up with some money for our cause, but I owe him an apology for lying to him about this mission. Saul, I knew that if you knew that we were going to kill the White House Chief of Staff, you would have refused to help. I’m sorry, I hope you’ll understand and forgive me.”

  “Wait a minute, General. You apologized to my dad but what about the rest of us?” said an outraged Aaron. “We’ve been talking about protests and how to get Abbas out of office. You never once mentioned killing someone. Don’t you think you owed us all an explanation and a chance for us to express how we felt about it? We had to hear about this in the news.”

  No one else spoke, but some murmured and nodded in agreement.

  “I’m sorry. I felt that we, I mean I, needed to act quickly and I made an executive decision. I value the views of each and every one of you in this room and in hindsight I could have confided in you. I’m used to the military way of doing things where command decisions have to be made and where inaction is the result of group discussion. I’d like to say that this will never happen again. But I can’t. There will be times when I have to make a decision and don’t have the luxury of time to call you individually or call a meeting to get your permission.”

  Tony didn’t want to let on that Nicky had spilled the beans to him and Angela, so he feigned a
nger. “General, I understand what you are saying but I also know that in this instance, we had time to discuss it. This is inexcusable.”

  “I don’t know what to say. I said I was sorry in this instance but, as I said, there are no guarantees. If any of you are uncomfortable with me making decisions, you’re free to leave. I won’t hold anything against you.”

  Saul excused himself and left the room. Josh waited patiently through the silence for several seconds.

  “If no one has anything else, I’d like to continue my briefing. As you know, on Wednesday Ronnie carried out his mission, and killed Omar as he left the White House. The hit was clean, but the police took him into custody because of a nosy old man who watched him all day. He saw Ronnie go to the roof top next to the parking lot where he had parked his car. Coincidentally, he walked his dog in the same park where Ronnie went to bide his time while waiting for his opportunity. Being suspicious, this old man later watched as Ronnie pulled out the rifle from the car. Since his friend rented the car for him under an assumed name, there was no way to tie the car to Ronnie. However Ronnie was again seen walking back to the car and putting the rifle in the trunk before returning to the same park. The old man then called the police who dusted the car for prints. There were none. While there was nothing of use inside of the vehicle, the police search uncovered a high caliber rifle from the trunk. The worst part is that this witness gave the cops Ronnie’s description. Ironically, were it not for this one person, Ronnie would have made it to Union Station and boarded his train home with no one the wiser.”

  Josh took a sip of water before continuing. “Ronnie didn’t know everything about our plans as we purposely kept him in the dark but he knew about me and, of course, he knew Nicky. He also knew Angela and Tony, who live in the same neighborhood, but I don’t think he made any connection between them and Nicky. My big concern is that while he didn’t have the details, he may have guessed the nature of the overall mission and mentioned it to his wife.”