The China Dogs Read Free Page A

are on plan and within budget. As you requested, we have fixed disinformation intelligence to ensure that if our deceit is uncovered, we will be able to make the world think it is solely the work of the North Koreans and nothing to do with us. We will be able to present ourselves as concerned intermediaries, trying to stop their reckless despotic ways.”
    Xian Sheng stares into the ambitious eyes locked on his old and tired ones. “I still have my reservations. Perhaps it is better to have sponsored this idea from afar, rather than with us insinuated in its development.”
    â€œPlease do not have such doubts. Without our direct involvement, this idea would have been but a lotus flower strangled in a field of weeds.”
    â€œHave our scientists now reached the required standards and implemented the proper controls that we spoke of ?”
    â€œThey are on course to do so, and still within the given operational timetable.”
    The president senses he is being economical with the truth. “I am relying on you to ensure there will be only minimal casualties, Zhang. Minimal . Do I make myself clear?”
    â€œYes, sir.”
    The words ring hollow. “The party has given you their full support, as have I. Nian creates a powerful weapon to use against our enemies—but we must be able to fully control it, or else we are like a sleepy child with a loaded gun.” His face grows sterner. “Remember, I only supported this project of yours with the understanding that you could deliver the behavioral modifiers that you promised.”
    â€œI remember well. Work on the modifiers is advanced enough for us not to be held up. I will not let you down”
    â€œI know you won’t.” Xian prays he is right. In truth, he realizes there is already too much support among the military council for the project to be stopped.
    â€œMr. President, with respect, I think the Americans will be more skeptical and stubborn than you expect. As a race, they are both arrogant and ignorant. They believe they will never be held accountable for their actions, that irresponsibility is allowable if it is gross enough and blatant enough.”
    â€œDo not underestimate them, Zhang. President Molton presides over a country in the midst of extreme difficulties. History has taught us that when people are in the greatest danger they are capable of the greatest victories.”
    â€œYes, sir.”
    â€œYou have done well. I will speak with Molton after the summit. If he is not open to our offer, then as planned you must go ahead and meet with the head of the NIA and tell him of the consequences of such foolishness.”
    â€œI understand, sir. I have arranged to see him in the morning just before our military escort takes the presidential party back to Air Force One.”
    â€œLet us hope it does not come to that.” Xian waves him away. “Go now and prepare your actions, while I prepare my words. Tomorrow we will see which is to control the way forward.”
    8
    Miami
    R ubberneckers crowd the sidewalk. Police sirens scythe the sultry afternoon air.
    Members of an armed response unit—dispatched somewhat unnecessarily, as far as Walton’s concerned—argue with a handful of regular cops about who takes possession of the cuffed prisoners.
    Eventually the weapons men win. They get to walk away without doing the paperwork on the robbery, which also means not being snagged for subsequent court time. Grudgingly, a couple of uniforms traipse off to start interviews at the Citibank. Others haul the offenders away in separate green-striped Crown Vics.
    Walton finishes briefing a sergeant and looks for Zoe. He sees her over in a pool of shade, leaning against the gnarled trunk of a palm, her black canvas bag back over her shoulder. She’s shooting pictures on a smartphone. Interestingly, not of the prisoners but of him.
    He walks toward her with his hand up, blocking the shot. “I’d