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The Path Given
Până la D. C. Townsend
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Începeți să citițiLungime: 377 pagini6 ore
- Editor:
- Page Publishing, Inc.
- Lansat:
- Mar 14, 2018
- ISBN:
- 9781642146820
- Format:
- Carte
Descriere
Jonna, a young college professor of linguistics who has a unique command of languages and communication, is persuaded to be a messenger for peace. She soon finds herself an expendable piece in a grand game to change the balance of world power. Two opposing countries long used by the East and West are the gambits. Will the great world powers flexing their muscles result in a devastating war that would destroying both countries, or is there an honorable way out? Alliances are formed as the great navies of the world strategically maneuver for position, as deadly aircraft play games in the skies. All hope to avoid a worldwide war and the use of nuclear weapons, but the desire for military dominance and the required satisfaction of massive egos are at play. Obstacle after obstacle threaten peace. Will Jonna find the strength, courage, and wisdom she desires to continue on the perilous path she has been given, though the destination is elusive?
Informații despre carte
The Path Given
Până la D. C. Townsend
Lungime: 377 pagini6 ore
Descriere
Jonna, a young college professor of linguistics who has a unique command of languages and communication, is persuaded to be a messenger for peace. She soon finds herself an expendable piece in a grand game to change the balance of world power. Two opposing countries long used by the East and West are the gambits. Will the great world powers flexing their muscles result in a devastating war that would destroying both countries, or is there an honorable way out? Alliances are formed as the great navies of the world strategically maneuver for position, as deadly aircraft play games in the skies. All hope to avoid a worldwide war and the use of nuclear weapons, but the desire for military dominance and the required satisfaction of massive egos are at play. Obstacle after obstacle threaten peace. Will Jonna find the strength, courage, and wisdom she desires to continue on the perilous path she has been given, though the destination is elusive?
- Editor:
- Page Publishing, Inc.
- Lansat:
- Mar 14, 2018
- ISBN:
- 9781642146820
- Format:
- Carte
Despre autor
Legat de The Path Given
Mostră carte
The Path Given - D. C. Townsend
America
Dedicated to heroes.
I cannot find a definitive definition of a hero. It is very subjective.
I have many questions, which I do not have good answers for. What are your answers?
Talent is often lauded; it can bring fame and icon status. Does fame define a hero?
Are those that lead men to destroy and kill heroes?
Are those who lead for the purpose to liberate and save lives heroes?
A soldier in a secure bunker, elusive submarine, stealthy airplane, or on a base on the other side of the world, can easily kill hundreds, thousands, millions, and with consequences possibly billions of their fellow human beings. Are these button-pushers heroes?
Are heroes givers or takers?
A hero can be many things to many people. One man’s hero is another man’s devil. Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Ho Chi Minh, Vladimir Lenin, Mao Zedong, Abraham Lincoln, or Robert E. Lee, are each revered as a hero by millions of people; to others they were devils. Is it a matter of perspective and ideology?
Do false heroes often stand out, "See me?"
I have tried to define a hero in my own mind. I find the definition elusive, wrought with emotions. Each of us has our own definition that we validate by our own values, and these values change over time and circumstance.
My personal conclusion: real heroes are often elusive; they often give others the credit, and they have no desire for medals, awards or accolades. Their aspiration is doing good. Many heroes are everyday people doing everyday things. A parent, teacher, neighbor, first responder, religious leader, healthcare worker, or any other person who sets a good example, freely giving of themselves for others.
Who is your hero?
My noblest hero is the person who risks all, giving of themselves for others, with no consideration of themselves, ignoring nationalism, ideology, or financial concerns.
Chapter 1
The Ultimatum
United States Presidential Address to the Nation, Day 1
President Spade’s address did not disappoint his avid supporters.
Kim Jong-un, you have ninety days to dismantle all of your nuclear programs and your missile program and submit to unlimited inspection by both the United States and the UN. I will not make the same mistakes that George W. Bush made, you have the weapons and missiles. The US troops will be unrelenting in searching out and destroying any and all opposition. If you do not comply, in ninety days, the full might and fury of the United States Military will come down on your head. The American people will not tolerate being threatened.
The president’s zealot supporters cheered, while many, including most world leaders, felt deep concern for the unforeseen consequences of such a threat and the president’s possible actions.
As the president concluded his speech, a flurry of political rhetoric flooded all of the media outlets, some cheers, some jeers, most filled with long political dissertations. The news media personal would be putting in a lot of overtime.
That afternoon the president met with the joint chiefs of staff and his military advisors. After two, you are fired, the remaining generals and admirals, fearing the abrupt end to their careers, agreed to develop an aggressive plan to bring North Korea to its knees. Total annihilation of North Korea was discussed. The president was warned of repercussions and unforeseen consequences. The president’s top analysts warned that the Russians nor the Chinese would tolerate the US military massed on their border. They will react to any aggression on their borders, the nature of their response is an unknown. A large-scale attack on North Korea might make Russia and China allies on mutual interests.
North Korea, Day 5
The Supreme Leader of North Korea addressed his nation and the world. He threatened that if North Korea’s sovereignty was violated, many Americans, and their devil leader, would die. There were three large and prominent red buttons on the railing of the balcony he was speaking from. While he extolled the greatness of his people, an aide gave him a signal. He held his hand over one of the buttons, announcing that he would now detonate his new and enhanced atomic bomb in a test, and he struck the button. At a second signal, he announced that a satellite was launched, and striking the second button, he said that the satellite was necessary to counter the many US spy satellites that passed over his country. Then he depressed the third button, saying, A present for the American devil leaders.
They will find their present in the mid-South Pacific. It had a radio beacon, making it easy to find. He concluded his speech by stating that neither he nor his people would be bullied or intimidated by the American devils.
Later that day reports from seismological stations around the world reported that there had been an underground nuclear detonation in a secluded mountainous area of North Korea. Officially the US downplayed it as a low-yield device. Other countries reported it as a successful test, stating that the signature put it at a yield approaching 250 kilotons, over sixteen times the force of the A-bomb dropped over Hiroshima. There were indicators that suggested an enhanced device, possibly enhanced with deuterium and lithium deuteride, making it the second hydrogen bomb test by North Korea. This size of device was a large city destroyer.
An ICBM was launched and its payload delivered to the mid-South Pacific. The present was quickly retrieved by an American cruiser and its helicopters, immediately classified. The payload flew 9,500 kilometers the distance from Pyongyang to Los Angeles. Leaked reports stated it was the size and weight consistent with a thermal nuclear device, and it safely reentered the atmosphere with radio transmitter operating.
There had been a successful satellite launch. There were reports that there was communication between the North Koreans and their new satellite. No one seemed to know what it functions were; all of the data was encrypted. With the North Korean level of technology, there seemed to be little concern, maybe some imaging of the planet’s surface. Radar and visual observations indicate a fairly good size satellite that had communications.
Over the next week most all world leaders denounced North Korea’s tests, mainly the nuclear test. Some of the harshest words came from Russia and China. President Spade’s words intensified, becoming more threating and derogatory in nature. He threatened to destroy all of North Korea.
The US Congress immediately started heated debates and inquiries. The president seemed to not want to cooperate with congress, stating executive privilege. Relations between the president and congress that were already bad further deteriorated.
The Canadian prime minister’s speech got little attention on the world stage; it was not ignored by all. He stated that he deplored North Korean’s tests and their nuclear program. He also stated that his government, at this time, would not participate or aid in any military actions against North Korea. He stated that he would participate in any negotiations or peace initiatives; he pleaded for reason and calm in the name of peace. His opposition viciously attacked him for his policies. He believed he had enough support in parliament to fend off any challenge; for now, at least, he knew that he was treading on thin ice.
Toronto Canada, Day 12
It was 9:00 p.m. and Jonna had just snuggled into bed when here cell phone played a melody. She picked up her phone; neither her nor her phone recognized the number, and she did recognize the exchange as being from Ottawa. She wondered who would be calling her from Ottawa at this time, probably a wrong number. She hit the answer key, putting the phone to her ear, saying hello. Jonna was immediately shocked into awake mode. She recognized the voice; it was the prime minister. She had worked for him on a couple of occasions but not in her most fanciful dreams—the prime minister calling her!
I am calling you to ask for a big-big favor. Are you available?
I have a lecture tomorrow morning. What do you need?
If you are willing, I will clear your schedule at the university. Please pack a bag for several days. By the time you get to the door, there will be a car waiting for you and a plane at the airport. Of course, if you are willing.
Right now?
Yes, right now.
Yes, I will do whatever I can. I will be out my door in ten or fifteen minutes.
Make it thirty minutes. I will wait up for you. Have a safe trip.
See you shortly. Bye-bye.
Hitting the end call
button, Jonna jumped out of her bed. She retrieved her large bag from the closet and begun stuffing clothes in it. Her mind was racing; it must be an emergency, with the prime minister calling, a car picking her up, an airplane waiting, and the prime minister waiting up for her. She realized that she was quivering, so she stopped, sat on the floor, tried to compose herself, and breathed slowly and deeply. She needed a moment to calm herself. Her heart was pounding in her chest.
Jonna stood in the center of her room, trying to think what she might have forgotten; a pair of dress shoes was crammed into her bag and a few of her books. She would have to repack when she got a chance; she had just stuffed everything into her bag. Her passport, yes, she had it; she was proud of her passport. It was red and it said Diplomatic Staff
on its cover. Her briefcase, no, it was full of schoolwork; she would not need those papers. If she was gone too long, she could call her father and have him take it to the university.
In the living room with her parents watching the news, Jonna inquired, Is there was anything interesting on?
hoping to get a clue as to what the emergency was.
Her dad replied, Nothing really interesting, same old stuff.
Where do you think you are going this late?
Ottawa, the ministry requested me.
Mom inquired, This late at night? Is there a problem?
Jonna looked out the small window in the door, no car yet, and she replied, I really do not know. They are sending a car for me.
Mom gave Jonna a hug and then dad’s big bear hug; he was a husky man with large hands. His hugs were always special; they made her feel like a little girl again.
He then admonished her, saying in Russian, Be safe.
Then after what seemed only a moment there was a knock at the door. Jonna opened the door, and there stood a man dressed in suit and tie, his appearance and demeanor proclaimed law enforcement or security.
He raised his left hand displaying his credentials, announcing, Lieutenant Carl Brenner RCMP. Jonna Gorganoff?
That’s me.
Are you ready?
Yes.
With a boyish smile, the lieutenant, while motioning to the curb, said, Ma’am, your carriage awaits.
Jonna wondered whether it was sarcasm or if this tough guy had a sense of humor; either way, it was a tension reliever. Jonna was nervous, trying her best to appear calm and composed. Jonna turned for her coat, and there was her father behind her, holding her coat. Jonna turned, stretching her arms down and slightly back. Dad slid her coat up her arms and over her shoulders; he was always a gentleman. Dad picked up her luggage with one hand, ignoring the fact that it had wheels. Upon reaching the limo, the lieutenant opened the door and took the bag from Dad. Dad than again embraced his daughter; this Russian bear hug was firmer and lasted longer than usual.
Now it was Jonna’s turn; she admonished her father in Russian. Dad, it is cold out here, and you do not have a coat on. You will catch your death of pneumonia, go in the house.
As they drove away, there was just enough light for Jonna to see her father on the sidewalk, watching. Jonna wandered if this was an omen; her father seemed to have a sixth sense. He always seemed to know when something was going to happen before it happened, and she could never get away with anything. As when a fish was nibbling on his bait, he always knew exactly when to set the hook.
Jonna had ridden in limos before, never alone and never with a driver and guard. She felt a little intimidated; she found the button and lowered the window that divided the compartments. Jonna thanked them for the ride.
The lieutenant said, Orders, ma’am, we will be at the airport in a few minutes. I am not going to complain, overtime.
Arriving at the airport, they did not drive up to the departures. Instead they drove up to a security gate. The guard, checking the lieutenant’s credentials, opened the gate and waved them through. They drove out onto the tarmac. Jonna thought, So much for airport security, all you have to do is be in the right car with a man with the right credentials. They pulled up alongside an executive jet. It was obviously a government jet, and stenciled on its fuselage was a Canadian flag and in bold letters CANADA.
Pulling up, the driver honked the horn with three short blasts. As the limo came to a stop, Jonna opened the door just as the lieutenant reached for the door handle. Jonna thought, herself impetuous, that maybe she was not supposed get out at this time. The lieutenant motioned to the opening jet door, with his boyish smile, as he retrieved her bag. At the top of the steps was a man in an aviator’s uniform. He welcomed Jonna aboard and introduced himself as her copilot. He told her to make herself comfortable and fasten her seat belt, and that they would be taking off shortly. He stated that the facilities were in the back of the plane, that it was a short flight to Ottawa, and they would arrive at about eleven. Jonna instinctively headed toward the rear of the plane. Twice before, Jonna had flew on one of these planes, once to New York and back, and once to Germany and back; her place had always been in the rear.
The copilot then said, The front has a smoother ride,
motioning to her a seat in the front. Jonna took the seat that the prime minister had set in on the New York trip. The lieutenant set her bag at the top of the steps, and the copilot stowed it away. After takeoff, Jonna reclined her seat and closed her eyes, trying to relax to clear her mind. Her mind was full of apprehension. She managed to relax a little, and she was aroused by the sound of the landing gears extending.
Ottawa, Canada
After coming to a stop, the copilot opened the door, looked out, and pointed, saying, A car is waiting for you.
Exiting, Jonna looked back, inquiring about her luggage; the copilot informed her that he would look after it. Holding the limo door open for her was an army lieutenant in full dress uniform, very handsome.
He only said, Good evening, ma’am.
After her door was closed, the lieutenant got in the passenger front door. Jonna mused to herself, My own military security detail.
The car went through a gate where another guard in full dress uniform saluted as they passed. The limo entered a large garage, pulling up to an entrance where another guard in full dress uniform stood. This time Jonna waited for the limo door to be opened.
As Jonna was exiting the limo, the lieutenant said, I will escort you, this way ma’am.
The guard at the door saluted the lieutenant, and he returned the salute. The door opened automatically, and Jonna followed her escort down a long corridor. Jonna took a couple of deep, slow breaths to calm her anticipation. Following her escort, Jonna noticed that his stride was purposeful as a man on a mission. His uniform was tailored to the exact fit, and he was carrying his dress hat precisely under his left arm. Up an elevator, then down another corridor, they arrived at the PM’s office where another guard stood at attention. Entering the outer office, Jonna noticed a secretary sat at a desk, and Jonna recognized her. Jonna had seen her with the PM before but had never been introduced to her.
As Jona entered, the secretary looked up, saying, Go right in, the prime minster is expecting you.
She entered his office, and the door was closed behind her. The PM arose, greeting Jonna, and asked her to be seated. There Jonna sat, just her and the PM. It was uncomfortable for Jonna. There was a pause as if the PM was trying to compose his words.
The anticipation weighing heavily on her, Jonna finally spoke, saying, Mr. Prime Minister, how may I be of service?
Everything I am about to tell you is classified and must not be discussed with anyone unless it is a person for whom you are directed to report.
A dramatic pause. I will endeavor to be totally honest with you. Several hours ago, I got a personal phone call from President Vladimir Putin. He requests your services, he wants to borrow you.
Me? Why me? I have never met him. I am a nobody, just a translator. Surely he has his own interpreters.
The PM slid a book in front of her and said, He read your book.
Jonna looked down at the book, Communication, the Basis of Civilization, by Jonna Gorganoff. She just sat there with a bewildered look on her face, matching what she felt. The PM continued, "You wrote it in eight languages including Russian, Mandarin, Hindi, Japanese, and others. Wrote, not a translation. To quote you, Jonna, ‘Things are often misunderstood or often lost in translation.’ You are fluent in twenty-three languages and have a working knowledge in many more. You are a very unique individual, a one of a kind. I hope you made a good deal with your publishers. Although it is not on the bestsellers’ list, a lot of diplomats and linguists are reading it. On more than a few occasions I have heard ‘Jonna said.’ I consider you as an asset to me and the people of Canada. I have found that you are invaluable when it comes to dealing with other people speaking or writing in other languages. When it is important, I always want your opinion. I have come to think of you as my secret weapon in foreign diplomacy. I do not want to let you go, but sometimes in the interest of the greater good one must make hard choices. You are uniquely qualified to be an emissary."
Jonna replied, What does he want me to do? I am not a spy nor will I be one.
I know President Putin to be a very ambitious man, but I believe he is a man of integrity who has the best interest of the Russian people at heart. I believe he has a sincere desire for world peace. As I am sure you are aware there is a lot of concern over the stability of the Asian status quo. The winds of war are blowing. He has a plan to put forth an initiative for peace in the area. I do not know the details, probably to my benefit, plausible deniability. He wants you to be his messenger, his emissary. He believes that you are uniquely qualified with your linguistic skills. Being from a country that has shown little interest in meddling in the affairs of other countries and that you are not known, so you have no reputation, no baggage. You will be perceived as not having any alternative motives. In his words, ‘an honest unbiased agent.’ Any questions?
Jonna took a couple of deep breaths to regain her composure. She felt herself quivering as she shook her head no.
I want you to be aware that I cannot get personally involved. It would give my opposition ammo against me, possibly giving them cause for a vote of no confidence. I will support you in any way that I can. I will not desert you, but you will be on your own. You can get on the airplane and go home to Toronto, I will not think badly of you if you do. Or you can go to Moscow and meet with President Putin. I will give you some time to think it over. Would you like a cup of tea, or something else to drink, I would?
A cup of tea would be appreciated.
The PM went to his outer office, and Jonna heard him ask for tea.
Jonna took a couple of deep breaths and closed her eyes, trying to compose herself. She felt totally overwhelmed; she was not in any way prepared for any for this. She realized that this was probably the most important decision she would ever face. She thought of her parents, of how they had risked all to try to find a good life together. What would they do? No, this was her decision to make. The PM asked for help; some of what he said sounded like double talk: on your own,
not desert you.
She always has trouble saying no when she thought it was important; he did say the winds of war were blowing. If she could be of a little help, she could not say no. Jonna opened her eyes, picked up the book in front of her, her book—no, the PM’s book—and examined it. It was the type of book she liked to see; it had been well used. She opened it to the title page; it was stamped with the PM’s name. The PM reentered and sat in his chair, looking at Jonna inquisitively. Jonna asked if he had a pen she could borrow. He took a pen from the stand on his desk, handing it to Jonna. She wrote on the title page, YES,
signed her name, and looked at her watch—it was already the next day. She thought, how inappropriate for a linguist; tomorrow never comes. She then dated it, putting it in front of the PM open to the title page, with his pen. Jonna thought that if things went well, the autographed book might be a reminder to the PM of a late night’s work. The PM stared at the book for a moment with a look on his face that Jonna could not read.
The PM thought to himself, I am afraid that I am sending this remarkable lady into harm’s way.
He slid the pen across the desk, saying, You might need a good pen.
The secretary than came in with a tray and served tea. The PM told her to send in Mr. Widget. Shortly, a small bald man in his sixties came in. The PM told him that Miss Gorganoff will need a new diplomatic passport. Mr. Widget asked Jonna for her passport. Then he had Jonna stand for a picture. The PM than said, One of your special diplomatic attaché cases, please,
handing him a note. As Mr. Widget left, the PM said, Send in the captain.
In came her escort. He saluted the PM. He was introduced as Captain Henry Rutherford of the Royal Canadian Armed Forces. Jonna thought, oops, hoping that she had not called him lieutenant; she made a mental note that she should acquaint herself with military insignia. The captain stood at attention until the PM said, Stand at ease, soldier.
Jonna looked at the captain, only his stance changed; he still looked as if the starch in his uniform did not permit him to bend. The PM than told the captain, Your assignment will be a classified diplomatic mission into foreign countries. You are to provide security and assistance as required. You are not to involve yourself in the diplomatic mission unless necessary or requested. Miss Gorganoff will direct this mission under both international and Canadian law. Will you be willing to volunteer for this mission?
The captain then snapped to attention, saying, Yes, sir, I accept the assignment.
The PM replied, Dismissed, and have the secretary find Betty and send her in.
Then the captain saluted the PM. Upon the PM’s return, salute the captain smartly spun about and marched out, closing the door behind him.
The PM then told Jonna that this was a need-to-know mission; the Captain only knew what was necessary. If he should be questioned by a superior, he could only say what he knows. The PM then told Jonna that the captain was an exemplary soldier and was very knowledgeable about both military and diplomatic protocol, and that his knowledge might be helpful.
The PM said, You have a pilot, copilot, security, and an assistant if Betty can be found. I must warn you that Betty is a bit sarcastic and sometimes a little insubordinate, but she is knowledgeable and very resourceful. I believe she will be helpful to you, and most important right now, she is available and willing. She likes to shop and sight-see. You would be best advised to keep her informed of your agenda lest she gets waylaid. She knows a little more of your mission but not the details. Betty thinks she needs to know everything. You might have to remind her, need to know, but as far as security she is as tight-lipped as a clam out of water. I trust her.
The PM was giving Jonna some pointers and advice on dealing with President Putin when the door abruptly opened, and a middle-aged woman walked in, saying, Is it on? Where are we going?
The PM said, Betty, I would like to introduce you to Jonna Gorganoff. She will be your boss for a while. I must warn you that she knows all of the swear words in most every language on earth. Jonna, this is Betty Smith, your assistant.
As they shook hands, Betty said, What a pleasure. I read your book, required reading around here. I am looking forward to a great adventure. I know we will have some fun. I am all packed, my bags are in my little closet office. Hardly room to move around, maybe after this I can get a bigger office.
A knock on the door, it was Mr. Widget. The PM excused Betty, telling her that she should get some help getting her bags to the garage; they would be leaving shortly. Mr. Widget handed a passport to the PM. He examined it, signed it, then handed it to Jonna, requesting that she check it over for accuracy. Embossed on its red cover was the Canadian flag and in big letters CANADA, DIPLOMAT, SPECIAL EMISSARY.
Jonna examined the info inside and found no errors, though the photo was not flattering. Next, the attaché case. Mr. Widget held it up, spinning it around. It was plain black, nondescript, with the words CANADA, DIPLOMATIC POUCH, Jonna Gorganoff
in small print on the top. Mr. Widget explained that it had a titanium frame and sides, and it was covered in top-quality Canadian moose hide for durability, the latest in security, and all Canadian. He was obviously proud of it.
Now for the programing. He stood it up on the desk and instructed Jonna to wipe her index fingers on a towel, then to wet them with her tongue and place them on two black pads. In doing so, Jonna heard a distinctive click, and a small red light began to blink. In a moment the red light stopped blinking, turning solid red. Then Jonna was instructed to repeat the process, and again there was a distinctive click, and the little light turned green.
Mr. Widget then said, It is programmed. Fingerprint identification and a genetic marker. As secure as it gets.
Jonna asked, If I do it wrong, will it explode or spray acid?
Mr. Widget replied, No, you have watched too many James Bond movies.
He set the case down and opened it. He went over its contents as the PM excused himself. The contents included a secure satellite phone, multivoltage charger, and an instruction booklet. Mr. Widget told Jonna that he had programmed many useful phone numbers, including her parents’, the PM’s personal number, and his own, in case she needed his help. He then told her that the phone was for official business or emergency use only. He instructed her on how to use the phone. Also enclosed was a substantial amount of currencies in varied denominations and countries of issue, as well as ten maple-leaf gold coins. In addition were several credit cards in her name with her new title. He explained that any personal charges would be her responsibility. Jonna’s head was already feeling overstuffed; this just added to the blur. Under Mr. Widget’s instructions, she practiced opening and closing the case.
The PM returned, giving Jonna a reprieve. He explained that Mr. Widget had earned his name as he was their wizard of technology. Excusing Mr. Widget, the PM asked Jonna if she was ready and if she needed anything else, as he gave her an envelope, stating it was a letter of introduction in case she needed it.
Jonna said, The only thing I can think of now is a lot of good luck and a little courage.
The PM sent her off with a hug and said, Godspeed. I will inform President Putin to expect your arrival.
They arrived at their airplane, and the pilot and copilot were in the cabin. After the luggage was stored and introductions were given, Jonna plopped down in one of the front seats. She felt overwhelmed, confused, and tired, and she wanted to relax and collect her thoughts. Jonna pinched herself, thinking she was dreaming.
Then the pilot addressed Jonna, asking, Ma’am, what is our destination?
This was a reality check to Jonna; here she was, sitting on the tarmac with the door closed and the pilot was asking for a destination. Now that is a need to know
scenario. Jonna took a deep breath, collecting her thoughts, and replied, Moscow, Russia, they will be expecting us.
The pilot replied, We have a full load of fuel, we should make it nonstop with a comfortable reserve. I will inform you of our ETA after I have made the calculations and check weather.
Jonna thought, Screw regulations. (Like luggage stowed, trays secured, and seat backs in their upright positions.) She fastened her seat belt, kicked off her shoes, reclined the seat back, and raised the footrest. She announced, Wake me before we land so I can freshen up.
Betty gave her a pillow and covered her with a blanket. Jonna tried to envision sitting on a riverbank with her father fishing. No matter how hard she tried to relax, her mind swam with the PM’s words: Honest unbiased agent,
Winds of war,
On your own,
The greater good.
The thought of meeting with President Vladimir Putin was terrifying. He was one of the most powerful men in the world. He was feared and reviled by many, as well as loved and respected by many. Jonna was relieved when she was roused by Betty, who was telling her that she should freshen up, until she remembered where she was and why she was here.
Chapter 2
The Challenge
Moscow Russia, Day 14
Jonna returned to her seat, after a unique and challenging shower and clothes change, just as the captain announced to prepare for landing. She was looking out the
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