The President’s Son

 by: Miguel Sanchez

© 2009-2011 by the author

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

Chapter 28

As soon as we were in the air, JR looked at me. “Any idea who made the call?”

“I didn’t go into that with them at the time. But you can rest assured I will find out.”

“Do you have any ideas?” Bennie asked.

I shook my head. “Since Nate is in jail I can’t come up with anyone. I’d even wager the voice is computer generated so identifying the caller is almost zip.”

“I can go over the logs.” JR said. “Doesn’t the switchboard use caller ID?”

“I don’t know JR. Ask one of the operators when we get back.”

Bennie was sitting in the back of the plane with Tonka looking like he’d lost his best friend. I went back and sat beside him and patted his leg. “What screwed up my spring break Ace?”

“The White House got another call with a threat.”

“The last call turned out to be nothing so why was our trip cut short?”

“It wasn’t my call baby.”

“Who then, Dad or Evelyn?”

“It was your Dad and I’m not about to argue with him on this.”

“But Ace, we all know that last call was nothing.”

“I know baby,” I started. “But the first time we take one of these lightly, that’s the time we get bit right square in the ass.”

Bennie thought about what I’d said. “Yeah, I suppose you’re right.”

Just then, my cell rang. “Mason.”

“Ace, it’s Pete. We have another situation.”

This day was going from bad to worse real fast. “OK, what’s going on?”

“We got a call from NORAD. There is an unidentified airplane heading on a collision course with Air Force One.”

“OK Pete, I can take it from here.”

“Ace, we’re coordinating with NORAD.”

“Coordinating with NORAD? What does that mean?”

“It means they’re tracking Air Force One and keeping us in the loop.”

“OK, keep me informed. I’ll talk with you later.”

“Ace,” He started then I ended the call.

“JR, get your computer going.” I started then called Ed.

“What do you need Ace?”

“Can you get into NORAD’s radar?”

“Whoa, that’s a tall order.”

I looked at him. “Can you do it?”

“Yeah I can but I might get caught.”

“Hold on then,” I said as Ed answered. “Ed, is he free?”

“Just a minute Ace, I’ll see.” He replied.

I waited for several minutes then heard Ben. “Ace, we have a little problem here.”

“I know Sir,” I started. “I need a favor.”

“I’ll do what I can.”

“Can you call NORAD and get me permission to tap into their radar so I can see what’s going on?”

“Yeah, I can do that but I don’t see why?”

“I would like to see for myself what’s happening. Ah Sir, has Canada dispatched planes?”

“Yes they have.”

“Are they willing to take offensive action if this plane refuses to break off?”

“We’re negotiating that.”

“Negotiating it?” I almost shouted. “Sir, with all due respect, they should be ready to do that now.”

“Calm down Ace, we are still in Canadian airspace.”

Just then JR got my attention then pointed to his computer. “JR, can you tell how far they’re from US airspace?

“It looks like they’re about 150 miles.”

“Sir, can I make a suggestion?”

“I’m listening.”

“Increase your speed and head for US airspace. Then contact the Air Force Chief of Staff and get some American fighters in the air. If that plane follows you, we’ll shoot it down. What I’m hoping is that the Canadian planes will continue to escort you even though you’re making a course change.”

“I’ll talk to the pilot and have him do that. I have to call you back Ace, I have a call from the Prime Minister.”

I ended the call then went over to JR. “Do you have the other plane on there too?”

“Yeah I do and it looks like they’re about 100 miles apart.”

“Can you tell me anything about the plane?”

“Not from this without his transponder being on.”

“Ben’s going to have the pilot change course and head for our airspace. If he’s really on a collision course, he’ll change course with Air Force One.”

Bennie was standing out of the way but I could tell he knew what was going on. “That plane isn’t going to crash into Dad’s is it?”

“Not if we have anything to do about it love.”

“Ace, Air Force One is changing course and it has increased speed.”

“Alright, watch the other plane and did the Canadian fighters stay with Air Force One?”

“Yeah they did but the other plane hasn’t changed its course.”

“Maybe we were wrong, but why was the transponder off? I’m going to call NORAD and see if they can tell what kind of plane we’re dealing with.”

“Ace, come here,” JR said as I hurried over. “The unidentified plane just changed course and one of the Canadian jets broke off and is heading towards it.”

“Man, I’d love to hear those jets.”

“Can you get in touch with the pilot?”

I leaned down and kissed him on the cheek. “You’re brilliant JR.”

“He smiled at me as I called Air Force One. “I try.”

“Communications, Major Davis.”

“Major Davis, this is Special Agent Rich Mason.”

“Well hi there, what can I do for you?”

“I need a huge favor. Can you get on the frequency of the Canadian Air Force fighters?”

“I’m on it now and we’re monitoring what’s going on.”

“I should have called you sooner. What do you know about the other plane?”

“Nothing really except it’s out there. Its transponder is off so we can’t really tell anything.”

“Escort 2 to Escort Leader.”

“Go ahead.”

“I have a visual on the aircraft. It’s a small private jet and all the shades are drawn so I’m unable to see whether or not it’s occupied.”

“Has the pilot seen you?”

“That’s affirmative but he is ignoring me.”

“Stay with him Escort 2”

Just then Major Davis came back on. “Did you hear that?”

“Yes I did, Major. Can I speak to Special Agent Miller?”

“Sure, hold on.” He said.

“How far are they from American airspace, JR?” I asked

“It’s hard to tell on the computer.”

“Yes Ace.” Ed said coming on the line.

“We know what is heading for you now. It’s a private jet but they can’t tell if it’s got passengers on it or not.”

“You realize what could happen?”

“Hell yeah I do and I don’t like it but I’ll be damned if some nut case is going to try and take out Ben and all of you.”

“Ace, there are two more planes heading towards Air Force One.” JR shouted.

“Ed, put Major Davis back on.”

“Yes Ace.”

“There are two more jets heading towards you.”

Just then JR shouted. “They’re ours Ace.”

“Canadian Escort Leader, this is Major Hawkins, US Air Force.”

“Go ahead Major.”

“Air Force One will be crossing into American airspace in 3 minutes. If that plane follows, we will consider that to be a hostile action and will defend the President. I ask you to back off so your planes are not hit should we have to fire.”

“Roger Major. Give us a break off order and we’ll acknowledge it”

“Unidentified aircraft, this is Major Hawkins of the United States Air Force. You are on a collision course with Air Force One. You have two minutes to alter your course otherwise we will consider this a hostile act. Please acknowledge.”

Now it was a waiting game. I was standing behind JR watching the radar blips move on it. I was also watching my watch as the seconds ticked off. “Major, how much longer until you cross into our airspace?”

“One minute Ace.”

A few seconds later I heard, “Canadian Escort Leader, break off now.”

“Roger Major. Escort 2, break off now.”

“Air Force One, Rescue Leader, maintain your current heading, speed and altitude. You are now in American airspace.

“Unidentified aircraft, this is Major Hawkins. You are now in American airspace. This is your last warning to break off and change your heading otherwise we will shoot you down.

I was watching the seconds tick down. “Rescue 2, Rescue Leader, arm your weapons.”

“Rescue Leader, roger, weapons are now armed and the target has been acquired.” The other fighter replied.

“Air Force One to Rescue Leader. The Eagle gives you the green light.”

“Fire.”

“Missiles away.”

I saw the missiles leave the fighter and head towards the jet. Several seconds later the blip on the screen disappeared. “Air Force One, Rescue Leader; the threat has been neutralized.”

“Roger Rescue Leader, good job and the President extends his thanks.”

“Roger Air Force One. You’re clear to continue on your way.”

“Roger Rescue Leader, by the way is there a gas station nearby?”

“That’s affirmative Sir, follow me.”

“Ace, I take it you heard it all?” The Major asked.

“Yes I did Major and thank you for allowing me to eves drop. Is the President free, his son would like to talk with him?”

“Agent Miller is going down to see.” He said as I waited. “Give him a couple of minutes then he can call his dad.”

I ended my call then went over to Bennie. Dusty had been holding him during all this. “It’s over baby and everyone is fine.”

“I was listening to your side of things and it didn’t sound good.”

“Baby, in the Air Force, we call that organized confusion. It sounds like total chaos to someone not familiar with how things can get but in actuality, we had everything under control.”

Just then we heard the Captain. “Gentlemen, we’re on approach to Andrew’s so please get ready for landing.”

Ten minutes later we were touching down. We taxied over to the hanger and I spotted my old Tahoe along with several other Secret Service vehicles. As soon as the plane stopped, the pilot shut the engines down then four agents came over as the steps were lowered. I stepped to the door and saw how far away the Tahoe was. “I want the Tahoe moved over here facing towards the exit with the passenger’s and driver’s door open.”

An agent moved and went to move the vehicle then I went back inside. I checked the closet and I was in luck. I grabbed the vest then went over to Bennie. “What’s this for?”

I looked at him. “The way this day has been going baby, I’m not taking any chances.”

I secured the vest on him then looked at Dusty and JR. “What do you want us to do Ace?” JR asked.

“You two will go down first and JR, you’ll handle Tonka. Bennie will be next and I’ll be right behind him. Bennie goes into the back seat followed by Tonka then JR you get in. Dusty you’ll ride shotgun and I’ll drive. Are there any questions?”

JR put Tonka’s lead on him then helped him down the steps. Dusty went down a couple of steps then Bennie exited followed by me. Bennie got in the Tahoe followed by Tonka then JR hopped in. I was about to call the control tower when Dusty and I saw the cargo plane land. “Looks like you got your Hummer back Ace.”

“It’ll be a while before they can get it over to the White House. I made arrangements for the RV to be driven over then we headed home.

On the way Bennie called Ben. “Dad, are you alright?”

“I’m fine son,” Ben answered.

“Who would try to fly a plane into Air Force One?”

“Son, I don’t know. I just learned the markings on the plane were false so it’s going to take some time to find out.”

“Can you come home?”

“Let me talk to Ace son.”

We pulled through the back gate then went to the residence. As soon as we stopped, Bennie tapped me on the shoulder handing me his phone. “Ace, Dad wants to talk to you.”

I nodded my head and put my hand up, letting Bennie know to hold onto the phone then Dusty and I got out. Dusty opened the back door and Bennie got out followed by JR and Tonka then we went into the residence. Once we were inside, Bennie handed me the phone. “Sorry for making you wait Sir, we’re at the residence and I had to get Bennie inside.”

“Ace, Bennie asked if I could come home.”

“I heard Sir. I know you have meetings scheduled in England but under the circumstances, it might be best if they could be rescheduled.”

“I could get the Air Force to escort the plane to England.”

“Yes Sir you could but then I’d be talking with Ed and Evelyn about getting additional Secret Service agents to England and I’d call a friend who works with MI5.”

“And if I said no?”

I giggled. “What was it you would say to me, Sir? You leave the security work up to Ed and me?”

“Bitten in the butt by my own words,” He said laughing. “I’ll make a couple of calls.”

“Alright Sir,” I said stepping off the elevator. “Your son is chomping at the bit to talk to you again.”

I handed the phone back to Bennie then took my bag into my room. Most of what I packed was dirty so they went into the hamper and the rest was underwear so they went into my dresser. I opened the door when I was met by Bennie running into my arms. “Dad’s coming home.”

I called Ed and found out when they would be landing at Andrews then I got a call letting me know the RV and my Hummer were back. We got the RV unloaded and the four of us were sitting down in the living room when Gloria came in. “Señor Ace, why are you back so soon?”

I didn’t know what to say without worrying her but Bennie beat me to the punch. “Someone is making crank calls again.”

“And that ruined your vacation Mijo?”

“I’m afraid so Gloria.” I said as my cell phone rang. “Mason.”

“Ace, I’m downstairs.” The voice said.

“I’m on my way down.”

I went downstairs and there stood Evelyn. “Ace, we have a problem.”

She looked steamed so I wondered who was in her cross hairs. “I’m listening.”

She stood there lost in thought then the doors opened. “Can we use Ben’s office?”

“Sure,” I said knowing this was really important.

We walked into the living room and Bennie, Dusty, JR and Gloria all looked at us. “Has something else happened with the calls?” Dusty asked.

She shook her head. “No, I’m afraid not. Director Moore, can you come with us please?”

Dusty nodded his head then I looked at JR. “Can you go over to the switchboard and get a copy of that call while we’re talking?”

He nodded his head then Bennie came up to me. “What can I do Ace?”

I thought for a minute. “You can go with JR, how’s that?”

He smiled at me. “Thanks Ace.”

“Take Tonka with you and take him out so he can do his business.”

Tonka was waiting by the elevator then the three of them left. Evelyn, Dusty and I went into Ben’s office and closed the door. Dusty was just as confused as I was. “Director Morgan, what’s going on?”

“About thirty minutes ago I received an intelligence report from the CIA about an intended attempt on the President.”

I shook my head because I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. “You’re just getting that now? How was this attack supposed to happen?”

She opened her briefcase and pulled out the report and handed it to me. “I told you everything I know.”

I looked at my watch and there was still an hour before Air Force One was due to land at Andrews so I didn’t have the time I really wanted to go into this then I read the report. “There has to be more that just this. I can tell you this, there will be someone held accountable for this.”

“Now wait a minute Ace.”

“Wait a minute my ass Evelyn. The President is going to have to be told about this. My question is why weren’t you notified so you could pass it on to Ed? If not you, why wasn’t the President’s National Security Advisor informed? There are a lot of unanswered questions here Evelyn and I know Ben is going to want answers. Now I’m really glad he’s cancelled his trip to England.”

“I don’t have any more information than you have Ace but what makes you think he hasn’t?”

“I was on the phone with him twice since we’ve been back and he didn’t say a thing about it.”

“Why would he?”

“Because of the nature of our conversation, Evelyn. Bennie asked Ben if he could come home.”

I could see her thinking. “Alright, it does seem he didn’t know about this.”

“Well then let’s hope the Director of the CIA is in the office because I know someone who’s going to have a lot of questions for him and if he’s lucky, he won’t lose too much of his ass.”

Dusty looked at Evelyn. “You know as well as I do that this was a major breach of protocol. I’ve been with NCIS for a good number of years and I get the impression that they’re a bunch of loose cannons who think they’re not responsible to anyone.”

Just then my cell rang. “Mason.”

“Agent Mason, we have your Hummer off the trailer. Do you want us to return the RV to the person you borrowed it from?”

I really didn’t have the time with all the things here. “Would you please? Tell him I said thanks and the fuel tank is full and the other tanks are empty.”

After giving him the address, I ended the call just as JR and Bennie returned. “Here you go Ace.”

“Did you listen to it?”

“Yeah I did and this call was very graphic.”

I looked at Bennie and I could tell he heard it so I reached my arms out to him. He came over and I wrapped my arms around him then he looked up to me. “Catch this guy Ace. This call has me scared.”

I kissed him on the cheek then leaned down to his ear. “I will baby, you can count on it.

Once again my cell rang but this time I looked at the caller ID. “Ace, we’ll be down in thirty minutes.”

“Have the other personnel been notified?”

“Yes they have.” Ed replied. “Are you going to ride in the limo?”

I looked at Dusty and JR then answered. “Yes, I’ll be in the limo because Bennie is going to want to be with Ben.”

“Sounds good, we’ll see you when we land.”

“Dusty, can you and JR come with us so the Hummer can get back here?”

“Sure we can.” JR said smiling. “We still have another week off.”

We quickly changed into suits then we headed for the elevator. “Evelyn, do you want to come along?”

She shook her head. “I have a few things to take care of before the President returns.”

“Will you be here when we return?” I asked pushing the button.

“I don’t know but if I leave, I’ll let you know.”

“Alright,” I said stepping into the elevator. “But I have a feeling the President is going to want to talk with you.”

We headed down to the ground floor and got Bennie and Tonka into the Hummer then we were off. When we arrived at Andrews, the other agents were already there waiting on us. The door on the hangar was open but the limo was still inside so I pulled inside and waited for Air Force One to land.

*****

Just then someone’s phone rang. “Well, you managed to fuck that up.”

“Me? I wouldn’t talk if I were you. At least I’m not where you are.”

“What happened to the help I was supposed to get?”

“You didn’t give me much of a chance, now did you? You went off half cocked and never got back to me as to when and where they were supposed to be.”

“Did you get that other thing off?”

“That was done days ago.”

“Well, that plan blew up in your face.”

“Did you really think that was going to succeed? If you do, you’re ready for a rubber room.”

“Fuck you, ass wipe. Now, what about that other thing?”

They’ll be chasing their tails now.”

“You hope so.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Look, if you under estimate anything, it’s going to come back and bite you in the ass.”

“Oh, like you did? I told you, I’m not where you are. Look, there’s no way they’re going to be able to find out a thing.”

“I just hope you’re right man.”

“I am; I’m not going to rush a thing like you did.”

“Fine man, whatever.”

*****

Air Force One was taxiing over to the hangar and I watched as it was parked. I got Bennie out of the Hummer and into the limo. “JR, I’ll need you to drive the Hummer because I want Dusty in the limo with me.”

Just then I felt a tap on my leg. “Ace, why not have another agent drive it? I know what you’re going to talk to Dad about.”

He had a point. I went over and talked to one of the agents then saw the door on the plane open. I got everyone inside then pulled the car around so Ben could deplane then get right into the car with a minimum of exposure. I got another agent to drive the limo so Ed and Johnny could ride in the back. As soon as we took off, Ben noticed the additional bodies and looked at me. “Ace, is something going on I should be informed about?”

I thought about trying to hold off until we got back to The White House but decided against it. “Well, yes there is Sir. It seems the CIA had knowledge of this and didn’t notify anyone until today.”

Ed looked at me. “Ace, I was never informed about this.”

I raised my hand. “I know Ed and Sir, I don’t know if your National Security Advisor was told either.”

Ben was doing a slow boil. “No he wasn’t or I’d have been told. Do you know how long they had this information and who was notified first?”

“Director Morgan was the first I believe. Well, she informed me when she came to the residence. As for how long it was held before anyone was told, I don’t know.”

“Did you say Evelyn was at the residence?” Ben asked.

“Yes Sir, I did. She’d have come too but she had a few things to do. If she was going to leave, she said she would call me.”

He nodded his head then reached for his phone. While he was on the phone, I spoke with Ed and Johnny about their trip then we heard Ben roar. “Evelyn, I want you back at the residence in 5 minutes.”

I couldn’t hear her side but I was guessing she was over at our office in The West Wing. I wasn’t about to break the silence in the limo so we finished the ride back in silence. We got Ben and Bennie into the residence then the five adults stepped into the Treaty Room. Johnny was shaking his head. “How could he not be told about this?”

I shook my head then Dusty stepped over. “Someone dropped the ball. I know they like to verify things but when the President is out of the country, any threat needs to be told to him right away then they can do whatever it is they do.”

I heard the door buzzer go off so we went out to see who it was. We saw Evelyn coming towards us but she didn’t look happy. “What’s wrong?”

She shook her head and kept walking. “The President is waiting for me.

We followed her into the living room where Ben and Bennie were sitting on the sofa. “Yes Mr. President, you wanted to see me?”

He stood up and I noticed he was thinking trying to choose his words carefully. “Yes Evelyn. I want you to call CIA Headquarters and tell Mr. Carlisle he’s to come to the residence.”

“Me, Mr. President?” She asked.

He nodded his head. “Is there a problem with that?”

“Right now I’m ready to strangle him, Sir. He put me in a very difficult position and I don’t appreciate it.”

“I would like to see everything he has on this threat.” JR said.

“So would I,” Ben said looking over to me. “Ace, can you make the call?”

I had to fight to keep my jaw from bouncing off of the floor. “Me Sir?”

He nodded his head giving me a look that said I wasn’t getting off the hook. “Yes and inform him I want him here in fifteen minutes.”

“Yes Sir,” I said pulling out my cell phone.

“Use the phone in my office. The Director’s number is on a preset, just push the button.”

I went into Ben’s office and pushed the button. “Director Carlisle’s office.”

“Director Carlisle, please?” I started. “This is Special Agent Rich Mason, United States Secret Service.”

“Hold on please.” She said making me wait. “I’m sorry but he can’t be disturbed.”

“I’m sorry too.” I replied. “The reason for this call is to inform him that he’s been requested to be at The White House Residence in fifteen minutes.”

“But Sir,” She started.

“Time is wasting Ma’am and the President does not like to be kept waiting. Also, he is to bring everything he has with regards to the threat on Air Force One. Good day.”

I hung up and saw Ben and Evelyn standing there smiling. “You enjoyed that didn’t you?” She asked.

I looked up then back at her and held up my hands. “I was just following orders.”

“And I’m Prince Harry,” A voice said.

We looked and there was Bennie with a smile. “You’re my prince.” Ben said walking out of the living room. “I’m going to take a shower and shave. I should be done by the time Director Carlisle gets here.”

“Everyone, there is a light snack in the dining room if anyone is hungry.” Gloria announced.

Bennie was the first one in and he quickly filled his plate. The others filed in and sat down to a light snack of Gloria’s homemade croissants and biscuits. After I’d eaten my fill I got Bennie aside. “Son, there is going to be a meeting in your Dad’s office and you can’t be there.”

He smiled at me. “I understand love. Since we’re still on spring break, can I call Jake and Carl?”

I smiled at them then rubbed his head. “Sure and tell them I said hi. Didn’t you say they were going out to California with Carl’s parents?”

Bennie nodded. “Yeah they were but Jake said they were only going to be there a week so they should be home.”

Ben had joined us in the dining room so we sat and talked when my cell phone rang. “Mason.”

“Agent Mason, Mr. Carlisle is here and says he was told to come here.”

“I’m on my way down.”

I told Ben the director was here then went down to get him. As soon as the door opened he stepped in. “I don’t like being summoned here like a school boy.”

I glared at him. “And I don’t like being blindsided and neither does Special Agent Miller.”

“That information was disseminated as soon as we were sure it was viable information.”

“And how long did that take?” I said rather loudly as the doors opened.

We were about to step off when the director saw Tonka. “What the…”

“Tonka go to Bennie, boy.” I said. “Sir, I’m still waiting for an answer.”

He stopped and turned staring at me. “I don’t have to explain myself to you?”

He turned to enter the residence then stopped so fast I almost walked into him. Ben was standing there with his hands on his hips. “Follow me Director Carlisle.”

Ben turned and headed for the living room with the director on his heels. I was following them when he stopped and pointed towards his office. I looked at Ben. “Who else do you want in there Sir?”

“All of you.” Ben said matter of factly then headed for his office as I went to the dining room.

I stood in the doorway and got everyone’s attention. “The President would like all of us in his office.”

Dusty looked at me. “Us too, Ace?”

I nodded my head then went to Ben’s office. Director Carlisle was sitting in a chair by Ben’s desk when we entered. “What are they doing here?”

“They’re here because I asked them to be here.” Ben snapped. “Close the door please, Agent Mason.”

This was a meeting that I was glad that I wasn’t in the hot seat. I waited until everyone was in then did as instructed. “Director, did you bring the material you were asked to bring?”

He reached into his briefcase then handed Ben a CD. “This was downloaded from YouTube.”

I coughed. “Did you say YouTube?”

“Yes I did Agent Mason.” He started

JR interrupted him. “Is that video still up?”

His head snapped over. “Not on your life. We had it pulled the minute one of our agents found it.”

I saw JR shaking his head. “What are you thinking Agent Carl?”

“Since it’s been removed, the chances of anyone finding out where it was uploaded from are next to zero.”

“Hold on JR, all hope might not be lost.” Dusty said.

JR looked over to him, “How so?”

Dusty smiled. “I have a friend in our LA office that has a friend who works there.”

Carlisle looked at them. “Your LA office? Who the hell are you guys anyway?”

“Watch your mouth if you enjoy your job.” Ben snapped. “As for who they are allow me to introduce Special Agent JR Carl and Director Dustin Moore. They work for NCIS.”

“Navy cops?” Carlisle shouted. “Why are they here? They don’t have jurisdiction here and this is highly sensitive material.”

“They’re here at my request and they both have top secret security clearances.” Ben said. “Go on Director Moore.”

“Well, if they haven’t deleted the video from the server all of the pertinent information should still be there.”

I looked over to the director. “Why didn’t you think of anything like this? Dusty, can you call your friend in LA?”

Dusty stepped into the living room while Ben was fuming. “Director Carlisle, just what has your agency done since you found this?”

“The one thing we can say with certainty is this was recorded somewhere outside of the United States.”

“Just great, that still leaves us looking for a needle in a haystack.” I said as I sat beside JR.

“What did you expect me to do?” Carlisle spat.

“Your first responsibility is to the President since this threat was made directly against him.” Evelyn said wading in to the conversation. “Once they were warned of it, then you guys can do whatever it is you do, which seems to be next to nothing.”

Dusty came in and looked at us. “Agent Lee is going to call his friend. But I think it best we have a warrant”

This was going to be time consuming. “Alright, let me make a phone call.”

“You have a…” Carlisle started to say.

“Don’t even say it,” I spat as I stepped out and called Judge Wheeler. “David, I need a warrant?”

“What for Ace?” David asked.

“The CIA…” I started.

“The CIA?” He asked.

“I’m not working with them David.” I said.

“Sorry I interrupted Ace.”

“The CIA found a threat to the President on YouTube. We need the information about the person who posted it and they have it.”

“Fill out the paperwork and get it over to me.”

“I’ll get to work on it now David.” I said and hung up.

Just then, David came out of Ben’s office. “Phillip Lee just called me back. YouTube is going to cooperate and give us any information we need regarding that video.”

“That’s great,” I said. “Have Phillip go over there and get everything they have.”

He giggled. “Already did that. Now, you better call Judge Wheeler back.”

I opened my cell and turned red. “Sorry buddy, didn’t mean to come…”

He raised his hand. “We both act like that Ace so don’t worry about it.”

I called David back and gave him the news then went back into Ben’s office and he was ripping the director a new one. “We have protocols Mr. Carlisle and if you ever fail to follow them again, I will be asking for your resignation. Do we understand each other?”

“Yes Mr. President but in defense…”

“Mr. Carlisle, there is no defense for what you failed to do.”

“Yes Mr. President.” He said contritely. “It won’t happen again.”

“It better not. Good day Sir. Agent Mason, please escort Director Carlisle downstairs please.”

I held the door open has he stood and walked out. “Are you happy I got my ass chewed out?”

“No I’m not man.” I started as we reached the elevator then pushed the button. “We all have a job to do. Mine is protecting the President’s son. Agent Miller and Agent Hawk’s is protecting the President. When there is a threat made against either of them, we need to be told ASAP so we can get them safe. Then you guys do your thing and find out who they are. I don’t tell you how to do it and personally I don’t care. The saving grace out of all of this is that nothing happened to the people on Air Force One thanks to the Air Force.”

“Then what’s the beef?”

“The beef is this. Suppose that plane had managed to fly into them? I could never explain that to Bennie no matter how much I tried and your agency would be having to do a hell of a lot of explaining.”

I watched as he walked to his car then head towards the back gate. I called the gate and let them know he was coming and he stayed on as he left the grounds. I returned to the residence and Bennie was standing there as the doors opened. “Is the meeting almost over?”

“I don’t know baby. Do you want some private time with your Dad?”

He came and hugged me. “I came so close to losing him today Ace.”

I lifted his chin and saw tears streaming down his face. I wiped his cheeks with my thumbs. “I know sweetie and don’t think for a minute I wasn’t scared for him and everyone on that plane like you were. It’s only natural and you two have been away from each other for a week.”

He looked up at me and smiled. “You know me that well.”

“I know how much you love your Dad and I will never come between that. I’ll let you know as soon as the meeting is over.”

When I returned to Ben’s office everyone was standing behind him looking at the computer monitor. I walked over and looked and there was someone dressed in robes. He had what appeared to be a turban on his head but it covered his face completely except his eyes. I was listening to his statement but I had no clue what he was saying. “Evelyn did you get a complete translation of this?”

“No, just the page I gave you.”

I listened to the video and started shaking my head. “I don’t know about you all but that's a language I am not familiar with.”

I looked at JR and he was shaking his head then I heard a voice. “It’s not a language that is widely spoken.”

I saw Pete standing there. “What is it then?”

“It’s called Qırımtatarca. It’s one the languages spoken in Crimea.”

“Crimea?” Dusty asked.

“Yes Crimea. Crimea is a republic in the south of Ukraine.” Pete replied.

“Why would Crimea want to attack Ben?” I asked.

Pete shook his head. “I haven’t a clue. Their religious beliefs are Sunni Islam but they aren’t involved in any terrorist activities that anyone is aware of.”

I shook my head. “Then what in the hell is going on?”

Dusty’s phone rang and he was about to step out when Ben spoke. “You can stay Director Moore.”

“Are you sure about this Phillip?” We heard Dusty ask.

The conversation lasted a few more minutes then he hung up. “What’s up” JR asked.

“Turn your computer on. Phillip is emailing you the information he got from YouTube.”

I looked at Dusty. “Are you going to need a hard copy?”

He nodded his head then Ben cut the CD off. “Here, you can use my computer.”

Dusty came over and sat down and entered in the information then opened the email. He printed the page out then handed it to JR. “I need a location on that IP.”

“I take it it’s not Crimea.” Pete asked.

He had some valuable information but now I was wondering what brought him up here to begin with. I stepped out from behind the desk and walked over to Pete. I put my hand on his shoulder and led him out closing the door behind me. “Why did you enter the President’s office when the door was closed without knocking first?”

He looked down then back to me. “I apologize, Ace. I have this for you, it’s marked urgent.”

“Thank you and if you ever walk into his office when the door is closed again, I’ll see to it you’re suspended for a week. Do we understand each other?”

“Yes Sir and it won’t happen again.”

I turned and went back into the office closing the door. I was about to open the envelope when JR looked up from his computer. “I have it Dusty. It’s a DC IP address from Verizon.”

“We’ll need a warrant for that.” I said.

“Not so fast Ace,” JR said as he started typing again. “It’s from an internet café over on 18th Street.”

“Now we’ll need one.”

Ben started shaking his head. “This was a terroristic threat so The Patriot and Electronic Communications Privacy Acts would apply.”

Evelyn stepped in. “Mr. President, the Patriot Act might not apply if the owner of the internet café is American and the ECPA still requires a warrant to search someone’s computer but the requirements have been lessened.”

I looked at Ben. “We have the probable cause we need to get the warrant. I can call Judge Wheeler and tell him what we have. If he feels we have sufficient probable cause, he’ll tell me. Now JR, the problem we now face is we’ll have to search every computer in the place.”

JR smiled. “Maybe not Ace, most internet café’s have their computers networked through one central computer. That way they can keep tabs on who is doing what.”

Dusty’s head snapped and stared at JR. “You mean they can read someone’s private email?”

JR shook his head. “No, they can’t do that but they can see the sites they’ve been to.”

I placed the call then went to my room and got my laptop. “David, I need a warrant and this time I won’t be changing my mind.”

“What is it for, Ace?”

We got the IP address of the person who uploaded the video to YouTube. The problem is it goes to an internet café over on 18th Street so we’re looking at a number of computers. We will also need to see their records so we can find out who was there at the time the video was uploaded.”

“You have cause for the warrant. Bring it to me and I’ll sign it.”

“What time are you leaving today buddy?”

“I have some reports and cases to work on so I’ll be here for another hour or so.”

“I’ll have it there before you leave.” I said and ended the call as I stepped back into Ben’s office. “Evelyn, I need to find out how many tech agents are available to help conduct this search.”

“That will take a few minutes.”

I called Pete and had him come back to Ben’s office. He knocked on the door and I was waiting. “Pete, how much do you know about computers?”

“I know enough to turn it on and work with it.”

‘That won’t work.’ I thought as I opened the envelope Pete gave me.

I finished filling out the application for the search warrant then printed it out. I had to get over to the courthouse but I didn’t want to have to go over to the internet café to present it to the manager. “Pete, I want you to follow me over to the courthouse. When I get the search warrant signed, I want you to take it over to the internet café.”

“Alright Ace, when are you leaving?”

“I’m ready now so let’s get going.” I replied looking at the others. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

Evelyn looked at me. “Ace, what’s in that envelope?”

I pulled the paper out and read it. “Hot damn, it looks like we’ve caught a break. JR, please find out all you can about this phone number for me.”

JR nodded his head then Dusty stopped me. “Who will you get to search the computers Ace?”

He had me. “Any suggestions buddy?”

“Sure, he’s sitting right here.”

“JR is good man but he can’t be in two places at one time.”

“Ace, you underestimate me. Have laptop will travel.”

“Pack your gear buddy.” I said heading towards the door.

We headed downstairs then headed for the door. “Who am I riding with Ace?”

“You can ride with me to the courthouse then after I get the warrant, I’ll need you to go with Pete.” I said as my cell rang. “Mason.”

“Ace, I have 2 agents freeing themselves up so I can get them over to the internet café.”

“Just two,” I asked.

“That’s the best I can do on such short notice. I’m pulling them from a counterfeiting case as it is.”

I had the call on speaker so I could drive and JR was staring at me. “Ace, if they’ve networked their computers, I’ll be able to search it by myself.”

“How long will it take for you to find that out Agent Carl?” The Director asked.

“As soon as I look at the control panel, I’ll know whether or not it’s been networked.”

“That will give the other agents time to finish what they’re doing and if they’re needed, they can come over to the café.”

I took over then. “I’ll have Pete call you if they’re needed.”

I ended the call then hurried over to David’s chambers. It didn’t take us long to get over to the courthouse and because it was Saturday, I found a spot by the front door. JR and I were heading towards the steps when we heard a voice. “You can’t park here.”

I looked over and saw the slot was marked police vehicles only and since I didn’t have time to argue with him, JR and I kept climbing the steps. We made our way quickly to David’s chambers then I knocked on the door. I stuck my head in and saw him motion us to enter. “Good afternoon Your Honor.”

“Ah, Ace, come on in.” David said. “I’ve been following the news reports.”

“Yeah and we were the last to know what was happening too.” I said taking the warrant out of my jacket pocket handing it to him.

“I’d hate to be in someone’s shoes.” He replied reading the affidavit. “Raise your right hand. Do you swear the information in this affidavit is true to the best of your knowledge?”

“I do.”

David signed the warrant then we were off. “Ace, the boys would love to see Bennie.”

“As soon as this fiasco is settled, we’d love to have them.”

We hurried out of his office then back to the Hummer. As we were walking down the steps, JR suddenly stopped. “Look Ace.”

We finished the descent then walked over to the rent a cop. “Just what the hell do you think you’re doing?”

He looked at me then back to the wrecker driver. “Hook it up and tow it to your impound lot.”

The driver went to back up when JR put himself between the truck and the Hummer. The driver stopped and looked at me then I lifted my jacket showing him my badge. His eyes got huge then he took off. The rent a cop came running over and started waving his arms doing a slow boil. While his back was turned, I took my credentials out and had them waiting when he turned around. “Now, I’ll ask you again. Just what in the hell do you think you are doing.”

“I…uh…” He started stammering.

“Do you think I’m such an idiot that I can’t read a sign?”

“Well…uh…” He stammered as he looked at my ID. “I didn’t know Agent Mason. That sure doesn’t look like…”

I handed the warrant to JR then he jumped in with Pete so they could search the computers at the internet café. After they left, I turned my attention back to the guard. “I don’t care what you think it is or it isn’t. Before you get any vehicle towed out of this area, you better make damn sure it isn’t a police vehicle.”

His mouth was still wide hanging open when I get into the Hummer and left. As I pulled into the back gate, JR was calling me. “I have the information on that cell phone and it’s another dead end.”

“Why, is it another throw away?”

“I’m afraid so, Ace.”

This was getting ridiculous. “JR, I want to know everything about that phone. There has to be a record of that phone by its assigned phone number.”

“Yes there is a record out there but it’s going to take some time to dig it up.”

“Time isn’t a luxury we have a lot of buddy.” I said getting out of the Hummer.

“Then I’m going to need some help with this Ace. If you want it as quick as possible.”

“You know I do. Do you have anyone in mind?”

“I sure do and you know him very well.”

“Are we talking about Bennie now?”

“That we are. We’re here at the internet café now so I’ll talk with you more when we get back.”

I headed upstairs and rejoined Ben and the others. “JR and Pete are at the internet café. Hopefully we’ll know something soon. Does anyone have any ideas where this thing came from?”

Dusty was shaking his head. “In this day and age, that video could have very well been made in Crimea then sent here in an email or even an IM chat.”

“Or even from there,” A voice said.

I turned around and saw Bennie standing there. “What do you mean love? We know it was uploaded from here in DC, not Crimea.”

“Not necessarily Ace, with a proxy he could have accessed his YouTube account from anywhere.”

“A what,” Evelyn asked.

“A proxy or as it’s better known, a proxy server. What it does is your IP address goes to another place and then a different IP address comes out. What comes out can be anywhere in the world. It’s designed to keep the user anonymous so he can’t be found.”

“Well, if they strike out at the internet café the person will still be anonymous.”

Bennie looked at me. “Can I see the IP address?”

I handed him the paper he hurried out then returned with his computer. A few seconds later, he was typing away on the keyboard. He sat there staring at the screen then looked up at me and smiled. “What did you find out?”

“I did a few things and it’s not a proxy, it is the real thing.”

I sat down and wrapped my arms around him. “Finally some good news today. When JR gets back, I would like you to help him tracking down a phone.”

He pulled back and had a smile that could power the residence. “You want me to help him?”

“Well, it was his idea when we talked but when you told me that IP address was really here in DC and stood firm with it, that said you knew what you were doing.”

He hugged me tightly. “Thanks Ace.”

Pete found the internet café then found a place to park. As they entered JR stopped and looked around while Pete headed to the counter. A teenage girl standing behind that counter saw him. “May I help you?”

Pete looked at the girl. “I need to see the owner or manager please.”

“One moment please.” She said picking up the phone.

A few seconds later a middle aged man walked out. “I’m the manager, how may I help you.”

Pete took out his credentials and the search warrant. “My name is Special Agent Pete Morgan, United States Secret Service. I have a search warrant to search your computers and records.”

“The Secret Service?” He cried. “What does the secret service want with me?”

JR walked up then. “It seems a video was uploaded to YouTube from this location.”

“The one about the attack on the President?” He asked.

JR nodded. “That’s the one. We need to know who was in here and on your computers during that time.”

“Jeannie, hand me the book please.” He asked the girl then started looking through it. “What day was this?”

Pete looked at JR. “Maybe three or four days ago.”

“Can you narrow it down a little more as to about what time?”

“Are your computers networked to your main computer?”

The manager nodded. “As a matter of fact, they are.”

JR went to the gate. “Can I see it please?”

The manager led JR to the computer and he began to type away. After several minutes JR looked up. “I found it Pete. Sir, who was on this computer?”

The manager came over and looked at the screen. “That’s computer 6.” He said looking out to the floor. “You’re in luck, that’s the guy over there. He’s the same one who was uploading to YouTube.”

Pete and JR walked over to the person and stood behind him. They watched what he was doing and then put their hands on his shoulders. The guy jumped then looked over his shoulder. “You’ll have to wait your turn guys. I have another hour paid for.”

Pete showed him his credentials. “Can you tell me what you’re uploading?”

He smiled. “Yeah man, a music video.”

JR looked at him. “Were you uploading videos several days ago?”

“Uh yeah.” He said.

Pete went to ask another question when JR tapped him on the shoulder then took a few steps away. “Hold up man, he looks like he’s a minor.”

“So, he’s freely talking to us.”

JR shook his head. “Ace isn’t going to want anything we get tossed so I’m going to call him.”

Bennie and I were still chatting when my cell rang. “Mason.”

“Ace, it’s JR. We found the person who uploaded the video.”

“Super job man. Bring him over to headquarters.”

“That’s the thing Ace; he looks like he’s under 18.”

I had to think for a minute. “Get his name and phone number then call his parents.”

“Pete is on the phone now. I think he’s talking to the boy’s parents. Hold on a second, he’s coming over here.”

“Ace, I just talked to the boy’s parents. They told him to answer our questions.”

“Alright, now do you have a Miranda warning form Pete?”

“Yes, I have them.”

“Good, have him sign one. JR, explain his rights to him carefully as he initials each one. What I find strange is that a teenager would make a video like that. Is he Russian by chance?”

“No he isn’t Ace. I can’t detect any accent.” Pete answered.

“OK, talk to him and find out everything he knows. If you have a hard time believing him, bring him in and I’ll talk with him but we need to find out who uploaded that video.”

I ended the call so Pete and JR could talk with the young man.

To be continued...