As Gabriella was completing her update on the U.S. military capabilities that were soon to be under Draven Cross’s authority, he began to smile as if he knew something that she wanted to know but did not have access to.
“Sir, is there something funny I am missing right now?” Gabriella asked.
“Perhaps, but really I have just been savoring the thought of what must be going through your mind right now after seeing John Barnes leave my office.”
“John Barnes was here today? I must have missed him, as I was working in my office all morning,” Gabriella replied, consciously stilling her nerves.
“It’s a shame you missed him. No matter, you will get a chance to catch up later today when he comes back to discuss his first mission as the U.E. Special Activities Unit Commander.”
“The Special Activities Unit? What exactly does this unit do for the U.E.?”
“Oh, the same sort of things you Americans had your Omega Group doing across the globe. The difference here will be John will work to meet my goals, not America’s. Tell me what you know about Operation…” Draven was cut off as his office door was flung open by Evan Mallory, with Gemma close on his heels.
“Sir, I told him you were in a meeting, but he walked in anyway,” Gemma explained.
Gabriella was grateful for the ruckus since it prevented Draven from finishing his likely life-threatening question.
“It’s okay, Gemma. Today seems destined to have me at its mercy,” Draven replied with apparent resignation as Gemma departed, closing the doors behind her.
“Sir…you’ve got to…” Evan Mallory stopped when Draven held up his hand.
“This had better be good. I don’t have time for any of your foolishness, Evan. I am in the midst of preparing for my final future ambassador meeting. President Rodgers is my most critical appointment, and we meet within the hour,” Draven threatened silkily.
“Sir, it’s important.” Evan grabbed the remote from Draven’s desk and turned on the large flat-screen television mounted on the adjacent wall, selecting the all-news network’s coverage of a breaking event. “You see, sir, this is coming out of Israel.”
“Yes, Evan, I can clearly see it’s an event in Israel, but what do you think I need to look at? Why am I watching news coverage of two old men sitting next to the Wailing Wall? I swear you’re daft. Get out of my office.”
Just as Draven finished chiding Evan, the newscaster began describing what had been happening since the appearance of the two men and growing crowd near the Wailing Wall. Evan raised the volume as Draven’s interest was caught by the two men being enhanced on his screen by high-definition broadcasting.
“Ladies and gentlemen, if you’re just joining us, we have a potential terrorist situation or violent protest ongoing right now at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. The situation seems to be in a state of flux. The two men you now see on your screen reportedly appeared at the Wailing Wall around two o’clock in the afternoon local time in Jerusalem. They have yet to speak or move, but several eyewitness accounts credit the men with killing or incapacitating a few dozen security forces who have tried to remove them from the Wailing Wall. Now we take you to Jerusalem to a local field correspondent who is with a tourist who was visiting the Wailing Wall when the two men appeared,” the anchor concluded.
“Yes, I am here with a gentleman on vacation from the United States of America. He was within fifty feet of the Wailing Wall when the two men appeared, and the subsequent attacks occurred. Sir, could you describe to us what you saw here today?” the field correspondent requested.
“Sure, well, I and my wife Jean were about to head back to our tour bus after visiting the Wailing Wall when all of a sudden we heard screams and saw people running everywhere. Well, Jean yells at me to get down because she thought it was one of them terrorist attacks or something, but I just stood there videoing everything with my phone.”
“So can you describe how the two men attacked the security forces?” the field correspondent queried.
“Well, they’re two older fellas, but they seem young and strong at the same time. I mean you guys can probably see their beards and them having no shoes, but their clothes and eyes were the weirdest things to me. I think they’re wearing like potato sacks or burlap or something, and it looks like they’re covered in ashes. Those eyes though made me feel like a child again—you know, like when your mom knows you did something wrong and you can’t stand to look her in the eye. Those guys were looking right down to my bones,” the tourist said.
“What about the attack, sir, what type of weapons did they have?” the field correspondent asked.
“I can’t say I saw a weapon. The security folks ran toward them, and those old men didn’t move a limb. They just opened their mouths and didn’t say anything, but the security folks just dropped where they stood. It was the craziest thing I ever saw.” The man’s shock was evident in his tone.
“Well, there you have it, one man’s perspective on an idyllic day turned tragic. I am sending the story back you in New York,” the field correspondent concluded.
Evan turned off the TV and looked at Draven as if expecting some sort of praise for informing him of the events in Israel. Gabriella felt awestruck as she reviewed in her mind the tourist’s accounting and the camera images of the fallen security forces and the two unwavering men. Draven, however, was enraged.
“Get out of my office, both of you. Now!” Draven Cross shouted.
Evan and Gabriella quickly moved out of Draven’s office, leaving him to his angry thoughts.
Draven swore aloud and slammed his fist on his desk. “What is going on today? I don’t need a detractor ahead of the historic peace accord with Israel in a few days. Give me something to work with here,” he said into the void of his office.
“Those men are enemies who will be dealt with in due time. I am working all things to my glory. You need only trust me and follow my instructions. We will deal with the American president and these two interlopers when my timing is right,” the Prince of This World replied into Draven’s mind.
Cross calmed himself and regained his composure, comforting himself with the words of his spiritual master. “I will obey, my lord. I will trust you,” he promised.
“Sir, President Rodgers is here,” said Gemma’s voice over Draven’s intercom. “Should I send him in now?”
“Yes, send him in. And set up a meeting with John Barnes, Gabriella, and Evan for immediately following,” Cross ordered.
The C-39XER was just as comfortable and fast as Christopher remembered from his recent trip to Afghanistan. He and Jackson covered the nearly 6,000 miles from Anchorage to Tel Aviv in less than nine hours. As the nimble jet taxied into a private hangar at Ben Gurion International Airport, Christopher noticed the familiar face of the retired general who was now the Minister of Defense, Benjamin Havid. The major hoped this trip would be uneventful and pleasant, but conducting a military operation in the Middle East was always fraught with uncertainty.
“Shalom, my dear Christopher,” Havid greeted, kissing both of the major’s cheeks.
“Shalom, Minister Havid. I would like to introduce you to my team sergeant, Sergeant Major Jackson Williams,” Christopher replied.
“Shalom, Sergeant Major. But, Christopher, where is Rev? I had hoped to see him.”
“Sir, we lost Rev almost two months ago now during a mission.”
“I am sorry, my friend. But as you know, not many in our line of work reach the point of a peaceful retirement. Come, let us depart. You are staying at my home, and we shall feast and talk tonight, yes?” Minister Havid was smiling from ear to ear as the brisk winter wind whipped through his salt-and-pepper hair.
“You’re too kind, Minister Havid. We really appreciate the hospitality,” Jackson replied.
“Please, call me General. I only took this job to keep an eye on the politicians. My heart is still a warrior’s heart,” Havid said with a smile.
“Sounds great, General. Let’s roll,” Christopher urged.
As “General” Havid’s caravan made its way along Highway 1 toward Jerusalem, Christopher noticed that Rev had been right in his evaluation three and half years ago when he’d projected it would take Israel seven years to clear all the remnants of war from their borders. But Rev would likely have quickly pointed out to me that it was not his assessment, but God’s. I sure do miss that old firebrand, but even more than his physical presence, I sure do wish I had his spiritual guidance right about now, Christopher mused.
President Rodgers had prayed for both wisdom and prudence ahead of his final meeting with Draven. He felt he might have been too brash in the corporate meeting and had been trying to come across as more of a team player ever since, while secretly continuing his plans to bring Draven down. Maybe Gabriella had been correct in her view that the world would eventually see Draven Cross for the autocrat he was, but President Rodgers’s instincts told him the man was the Antichrist and had to be stopped. As he entered the office and caught a glimpse of the man who was now the de facto ruler of the world, he felt his blood pressure rising.
“Good morning, President Rodgers. I’ve been looking forward to this meeting all week, as I view your support essential to securing a global peace,” Draven said in greeting as he directed Rodgers to be seated in a chair in front of his desk.
“I appreciate your trust in America and me. America stands ready to defend the world against tyranny,” President Rodgers returned.
“Interesting choice of words, Mr. President. It almost seems to me that you view my plans as an assault on freedom. Liberty, the quintessential value you American’s love to boast about having and continuously try to define for all the world, is at the heart of all that I aim to accomplish. I think it was your famed Abraham Lincoln who said it best, though I’m paraphrasing, ‘We all desire liberty, but in using the same word, we do not all mean the same thing.’ I am defining liberty, President Rodgers, for everyone in the world going forward, including America. I suggest you get comfortable with that thought,” Draven stated flatly.
“So what you’re saying is that the most powerful influencer in the world system will be you—is that correct, Mr. Secretary-General? That doesn’t sound so benevolent. It really sounds more like dictator speak 101,” President Rodgers replied, struggling to keep his tone level.
“As I’ve explained to all the other ambassadors this week that sat where you’re currently seated, I expect loyalty. I realize that you lead one of humanity’s greatest nations, but America’s ideology and, quite frankly, ego must take a back seat for the greater good. Going forward, the U.E.—or as you correctly surmised, I—will be the leader of the international system,” Draven Cross stated firmly.
“What is it that you desire from America and from me, beyond loyalty?” President Rodgers asked.
“America has been excellent in leading the way toward global peace by allocating ten percent of its military capabilities to the U.E. This contribution ensures the U.E. will be equipped to defend against aggression in the future, a claim the former U.N. could never make. I expect that this level of support to any of my plans will continue.”
What about your mandate to the nuclear nations to turn over all nuclear weapons to the U.E.…what peaceful objective would the U.E. have for those, Mr. Secretary-General?”
“I am destroying them. It will be one of my greatest contributions to the peace of the world—complete denuclearization. I am a shoo-in for this year’s Nobel Peace Prize,” Draven bragged.
“To be completely honest with you, Mr. Secetary-General, it’s hard for me to believe that the unprecedented amount of military power being made available to you will lead to prolonged peace and not war. Let’s be realistic. I was briefed by your new lackeys in my government that we are turning over all personnel, equipment, and command structures located at our three largest Army, Air Force, and Naval bases—not the mention our nukes. Despite my appeals and pressures within Congress and the Supreme Court, my country is moving forward with the wholesale shuttering of our military. Your demands have effectively destroyed America’s military. Who could we attack even if we wanted to?”
“Precisely, Mr. President. All the great nations of this world are doing exactly as the United States military has done, which guarantees the peace that people want. You’re blind to the need for the necessary changes in how the world will be governed going forward. Thus, the leaders of your country are helping move the world toward a better future. Within a month, the U.E. will be the most powerful organization in all of human history. No one will dare challenge the peaceful initiatives that we have developed here this week. As a result, everyone will enjoy the peace and freedom that has been only a dream until now.”
“That will be true only if they obey your vision for freedom,” President Rodgers stated flatly.
“Tread carefully, President Rodgers. Your challenges are not unnoticed and make me question your loyalty to the U.E., and more importantly to me,” Draven warned.
President Rodgers paused, feeling foolish for getting into a squabble with Draven. He must maintain the element of surprise if he was going to destroy Cross. However, his disgust of all things Draven bubbled to the surface too often. I need to calm down, focus, and stay on track. But whether he knows it or not, Cross just showed his hand in one regard—he needs only a month to implement his game plan.
“I am speaking to you, President Rodgers. I expect acknowledgment,” Draven demanded, now standing.
“I apologize, Mr. Secretary-General. I am sure a man of your intelligence can understand how hard this transition is for the great nation of America and for me personally. Rest assured, however, that I fully support your plan for the future and will not impede the U.E. or your leadership,” President Rodgers said, extending his hand as he came to his feet.
“Excellent. Let us hope for America’s sake—and for your sake—that you’re a man of your word. Meeting adjourned,” Cross said dismissively, ignoring the outstretched hand.
“Okay, Draven. Until we meet again,” President Rodgers replied before turning to leave.
Cross fumed at not being able to gun down President Rodgers where he stood for his insolence, but he was held back by the Prince of This World, who told him the timing was not right. Draven knew that in a month America would be too weak to protest the death of their president in the face of the military might he would gain. “Gemma, send in Gabriella, John Barnes, and Evan in ten minutes.”
Christopher looked out the car window in disbelief. Jerusalem had changed drastically since his last visit three and a half years earlier. The Israeli nation’s newfound wealth, stemming from the discovery of massive energy reserves and Israel’s unquestioned military strength, had transformed the country into a foreign investment and global commerce hub. While Israel, like any country, had always had morally questionable areas and unspoken practices, large billboards for gentlemen’s clubs and an entertainment district in Jerusalem now lined Highway 1. Israel may have always been a “Jewish state,” but Christopher knew that, like other countries, the faith of many Israelis was only surface deep. Still, the wanton materialism and hedonistic atmosphere he saw today were not what Christopher would have ever guessed to witness within the nation of Israel.
Noticing Christopher’s face as he gazed out the car windows, General Havid said, “Israel is changing, my friends, and not for the better. We’ve completely abandoned Yahweh for Draven Cross—just like our ancestors when they longed to return to the whips of Egypt instead of trusting in the power of Yahweh in the wilderness. You know, some religious scholars here are even trying to link Mr. Cross to the Davidic line in an attempt to proclaim him as the long-awaited Messiah. I, however, believe he is far from our Messiah, a topic we can discuss over dinner.”
“Yes, sir, I was going to say this is certainly not what I expected to see on my first trip to the Holy Land,” Jackson remarked, his surprise evident in his voice.
“Holy Land…ha! This land is holy only due to memories. The good news is that Yahweh will soon make all things right again, and the eternal city will shine anew for all humanity,” General Havid assured them.
The three men were silent during the remaining short drive to the northern outskirts of Jerusalem. General Havid’s home was located within an exclusive alcove near the Ramat Givat Ze’ev neighborhood. He had bought three lots to build a secure and private retreat that overlooked the Old City and most of Jerusalem.
Jackson broke the silence. “Your security presence is impressive. No one would get in here without you knowing.”
General Havid laughed as the convoy pulled into his circular driveway and one his staff members quickly opened the vehicle doors for the general and his guests.
“Gentlemen, please excuse me. I must get a quick update on a situation at the Wailing Wall and then I will join you for dinner. My home is your home,” Havid graciously offered before walking away with several members of his staff in tow.
Jackson immediately moved toward a scenic backyard overlook using a well-manicured garden path. “Would you look at that? God is so good, my friend,” the sergeant major said as he looked at a setting sun behind the ancient Old City.
“It’s incredible,” Christopher agreed.
“Just wait! In seven years, this place is going to get a renovation like nothing you’ve ever seen, when the good Lord returns,” Jackson assured Christopher.
“I hope I survive to see it,” Christopher muttered darkly.
Gabriella had hoped President Rodgers would stop by her office after his meeting with Draven Cross. Instead she watched him storm by her door without even a second glance. Now she had to endure a meeting with a likely agitated Draven, the potentially traitorous John Barnes, and the enigma named Evan Mallory. If Jackson was right about Cross, the rapture, God…everything…then Gabriella wasn’t worried about surviving to see the second coming of Jesus because her job was going to kill her first. Her intercom buzzed, and she heard Gemma’s voice.
“Gabriella, Mr. Cross is ready to meet with you and the others in his office.”
“Thanks, Gemma, on my way,” Gabriella responded. She grabbed her coffee mug and was gathering her notes for the meeting when her quantum communicator pulsed, signaling a new message had arrived. She pulled the device from her suit jacket and read the display, which indicated Rodgers was the sender. She hurriedly pressed authenticate and quickly skimmed the screen.
“Gabriella, I am sorry I did not stop by your office, but I want to put as much distance between us as possible. Long story short, I plan to execute a preemptive military strike against Draven Cross within a month. I hope you soon discover the truth about him for yourself, but I will not allow him to destroy our country. I’ll be in touch.”
“Gabriella, they’re waiting for you,” Gemma said urgently, standing in Gabriella’s office doorway.
“Yes, sorry. I’m on my way,” Gabriella replied with a small smile. As she walked the short distance to the secretary-general’s office, she felt a strong sense of foreboding—like a great tragedy was about to unfold, and she couldn’t do anything to prevent it.
“Well, I’m glad you could join us, Gabriella. I hope this meeting didn’t inconvenience you,” Draven said with obvious sarcasm.
“No, sir. My apologies for being late. I was getting a refill of coffee,” Gabriella said as she took her place at the conference table.
“Listen up. Today has been an incredibly trying day for me. I need you all to leave here prepared to execute my orders with precision and without excuse,” Draven ordered sharply. “John, I want you to track down and present options for decimating the emergency command bunkers for all of the new ambassadors. Additionally I want you to provide me with a brief no later than six o’clock tonight on the persons needed to fill your team and any resources you will require. Acknowledge your understanding of those orders,” he said curtly.
“I understand, sir, but what about Operation—?” John Barnes was cut off abruptly by Draven.
“Shut up, you imbecile. Granted this is a U.E. security staff meeting, but not everyone here needs to know everything. Just execute your orders and report to me when complete. Get out and get started,” Cross demanded.
“Yes, sir,” replied a red-faced John Barnes before rapidly exiting the office.
“Gabriella, I am still trying to figure out just how much to trust you. So let’s put your loyalties to the test. I need you to provide me with the known and secret locations of the U.S. president’s crisis command and control bunkers. You will also supply John Barnes’s newly formed unit the intelligence they need to mitigate potential threats to my plans. Lastly, to test the limits of your loyalty, I need you to provide John and me with the daily whereabouts of Omega Group for the next month. Frankly, I don’t trust you or President Rodgers, and until I see a reason to change my mind, I want to be able to hold hostage your mentor Rodgers and his best weapon, his beloved Omega Group.”
Gabriella fought hard to subdue the trembling that began deep inside—she was also surprised by a strong urge to cry. Her mind raced. Is there no way out of this situation? What did John Barnes tell him about Omega? Think quickly! She said out loud, “Sir, those requests are beyond the bounds of my employment. You’re asking me to betray my country when America poses no risk to you or the U.E.”
“You will not question my authority. I’ll deem who is my enemy and who isn’t. Gabriella, your concern at this moment should be your own life instead of others,” Draven directed.
“I have your orders, sir. Is there anything else you have for me?” Gabriella questioned, standing to leave.
“My dear, tread lightly. No one is too valuable to replace. Sit down. You will stay until you are dismissed,” the secretary-general commanded imperiously. “Evan, you will head to Rome this weekend in preparation for the World Religious Leaders Conference next week. I expect that, by the end of next week, you will have solid momentum toward unifying the world with the Interfaith dogma. One last thing for you to jot down, Evan. I want you to keep an eye on those two old men at the Wailing Wall. I don’t want them to overshadow my accomplishments in the coming days. Finally, as you both know, I’m flying out on Sunday for the Israel Peace Treaty signing ceremony on Tuesday. I will be addressing the Knesset on Monday, followed by a meeting with the Israeli prime and foreign ministers. Evan, expect me to ‘surprise’ the conference later in the week, which should bolster your efforts. Do either of you have any questions regarding your assignments?”
“No, sir. I am excited about this upcoming week, sir. The world is about to turn a corner to a new day in its history,” Evan replied enthusiastically.
“Gabriella, anything puzzling you?” Draven inquired.
“No, sir. What I need to do is evident.”
“Excellent. Meeting adjourned. Let’s bring peace to Earth.”