They Disappeared

68

Battery Park, New York City

As the Russian president neared the end of his speech, the catcalls from the protestors increased.

Nikolai Vlasik’s jaw muscles throbbed as Sergei Serov took him aside. Hank Young, hand cupped over his ear as information was relayed to him, had again urged the Russian delegation to evacuate.

Again, Serov had refused, saying the delegation would depart only after the event was finished, only after the other dignitaries had spoken.

Irritated, Young left to seek authority to overrule Serov. When Young was out of earshot, Serov smirked to Vlasik.

“We have the situation under control,” Serov said. “Never forget, Nikolai, Mother Russia has the best intelligence-gathering apparatus the world has ever known. We do not frighten easily and have no intention to leave until the dedication ends.”

Vlasik ignored Serov and performed another radio check with his team, scanning the crowd. The protestors wailed as the president said, “I wish to express my respect for the courage of the people of-”

The president stopped.

His head snapped up as if he’d been shocked. Bright red droplets suddenly appeared on his face and red streaked across the Mykrekistani president’s face and neck as he’d risen to rush to the podium.

By reflex, Vlasik and the Secret Service detail’s training kicked in. Within a heartbeat agents covered the Russian president, shielding him amid screams as other agents yanked dignitaries from the stage.

Chairs were toppled and the crowd erupted as terrified people ran, crouched and crawled in every direction as security teams drew weapons.

A wave of uniformed NYPD officers charged at the protestors.

News crews swung into action covering all angles of the turmoil.

Frantic calls were made to news desks to go live with coverage as one seasoned network crew, already live, issued a report within seconds.

“…yes, it appears the Russian president has been wounded in some sort of attack! Other dignitaries have also been injured….”