by HL Jones
***
“Those men were wearing government military uniforms, Popov! Don’t tell me that they weren’t under your orders!”
“Mr President, I assure you that Russia has absolutely no interest in provoking the USA. Why would we want to attack a US base?” Popov was glad that it was a voice-only conference; he was sweating profusely, but he was also aware that his words were being analysed for signs of stress. He stroked his small beard anxiously; his advisor shook his head and mouthed the words calm down.
“There was a particular object in that base,” replied President Theodore, “that was of great value. That was undoubtedly the target of the attack. Would you happen to know what I’m on about, Popov?”
Yes. “No, I’m not aware of any object, and I wasn’t aware of the attack until you called me. I assure you, I have my best men assigned to tracking down these terrorists.”
There was a pause. “Popov, you’re a goddam liar. I have enough dead Russian soldiers and intercepted radio transmissions to know you ordered this attack. Admit it.”
“I admit nothing.”
“You don’t have to, Dmitri. I have all the proof I need. You’re facing a war with the west.”
Oh well, he thought, no point lying any more. “That artefact is worth more than either of us can appreciate. Sure, it’s an energy field, but more importantly, it’s a new form of free energy! Look Mr Theodore, oil is running out. We both know that. Eventually, we’re going to have to conquer oil-rich countries just to stop our economies from collapsing, and even that will be a temporary solution. But with that device, we can completely eradicate our reliance on oil! Understand that the attack on Thule was a necessary course of action on my part.” He took a small measure of vodka, relishing the clean taste. “You really don’t want a war with Russia Mr President. Trust me. Give me the artefact.”
For a long time, there was silence on the line. “Well,” replied Theodore eventually, “I think you’ve given me no choice. Goodbye, Dmitri.”