“Madam Vice President, the situation is getting worse day by day. The longer you stay, the more it is not safe for you.” One of the security advisers said.
“I appreciate the thought, but I have responsibilities to my people.” Vice President said with dignity.
“But you’re risking your life.”
“I would prefer to stay, and finish my mission. Also, please spread that no one is allowed to move out of this place nor out of the country. I don’t want to send people the wrong message. No one will fix the country’s issue, but the Government.” She said with determination.
“What mission?” The Head of the Security asked, but Vice President Ariana Marie was deaf to his words. She called for an emergency Cabinet Meeting in the West Wing of the White House after lunch. Her secretary immediately went out and spread the news, and made sure that every member knows about the meeting. At precisely one in the afternoon, the meeting began.
“Good morning ladies and gentlemen. The agenda of today’s meeting is about our country’s current condition, and the culprit behind the President’s attack.”
“The Police had thoroughly conducted their investigation, and evidence showed that it was the Marauders. It is, no doubt, an act of violence and terrorism that sent the President under life-threatening condition. I need to hear your thoughts regarding this matter.” She continued.
The Marauders, is an Islamic Coalition consisted of rebels with different perceptions. They have considered Treaty of Peace between the Government, but Marauders broke it the moment the State failed to provide its people proper well-being. Marauders supporters spread riot in the country as a form of their protest and threat. One cabinet members raised his hand and opened his microphone.
“I think it’s time we implement Martial Law.” He boldly said. Everyone was shocked, and chattering began. The Vice President smashed the gavel three times.
“Silence, please. We are here to listen to the thoughts of everyone and get a possible solution. Please continue with what you are saying.” The Vice President said.
“People starts to become vulnerable, and they have no respect for the Government. Martial Law implementation is the best option that I can see to discipline them. To let the people and those Marauders know that we are still in control.” The cabinet member said.
“But it would cause more tension. They would think that we are taking away their human rights. Besides, it can also cause more damage to our economy knowing the fact that we still haven’t able to increase our income.” Senator Forbes strongly disagreed.
“Then, what do you suggest Mr. Great Senator Forbes?” The Cabinet Member who suggested Martial Law challenged with a smirk on his face.
“Let’s hear their demands. Let’s show them that we want to resolve our every issue. That we are still a nation that needs to be united.” Senator Forbes said.
“Sounds easier said than done, but they are disrespectful. Don’t forget that those Marauders promoted war.” Another strong-willed senator said.
Things are heating up, and the Vice President knows that they won’t resolve anything if her cabinet members act like stupid children.
“We will never resolve any issue if we put in our pride first. I am ordering each of the members to send a report and send it to my office today. No excuses. Let’s resume the meeting tomorrow, same time. Meeting adjourned.” The Vice President said with frustration to her cabinet members. However, she’s okay with the idea that they are still participating actively.
Vice President Ariana Marie received the reports later that afternoon. As expected, Senator Forbes pushed his idea of talking to the Marauders. She thought that the Administration could give it a try, so he called the Senator to come into her office.
“Good afternoon, Senator Forbes.” She greeted the senator nicely.
“Good afternoon, Madam Vice President. To what do I owe this urgent meeting?” He responded politely.
“I’ll go straight to the point, Senator. I read your report and noticed that you wanted to talk to the people. Do you think you can manage to do it? I think they would appreciate if someone who serves in the Government will talk to them.” Vice President Ariana Marie said.
“Yes, of course.” Senator Forbes said without second thoughts, but unsure of the possible results.
“Great. I’ll make sure to give you the security that you need.” She assured the senator.
Vice President Ariana Marie contacted The Marauders, and fortunately, they’ve agreed to speak with the Government. However, they don’t want any publicity, cameras nor media. They want to keep it private as much as possible. Senator Forbes was preparing when he saw The Marauders coming in the White House with their guns. The Army and the Policemen were in the area. It was like a movie scene, but he couldn’t help, but be concerned about the situation. Senator Forbes kept on saying that he has to do it for his country and his family’s safety.
The meeting has begun. Senator Forbes hasn’t talked to any terrorists or any types his whole life. He never would’ve have imagined that he’ll do it for the sake of his country and its people. The Islamic Leader with Taqiyah and a long white beard was already waiting when Senator Forbes came in. He was relieved that the leader has no guns. There was security outside of the room.
“Good evening. I am Senator Forbes, and the Government is delighted that you were able to come on short notice.” Senator Forbes said.
“Thanks for reaching. I am the Big Ira, leader of the Marauders.” The leader said in a sharp voice.
“First off, I am assuming that there are no cameras in this room?” The leader added with a smirk on his face.
“Yes, Sir. There’s none.” The Senator replied.
“Good, because you know what I can do to you if you ignore our simple requests.” Big Ira showed his knife belted around his waist. Senator Forbes felt cold and swallowed his spit. He was terrified, but he knew that he had to continue and finish this meeting right away.
“So should we begin?” Senator Forbes tried to cover his tension.
“Of course. It shouldn’t take long because it feels weird to be in here.” Big Ira replied
“We’d like to know what are your demands. And talk about peace.” Senator Forbes said bravely.
“Peace, huh?” Big Ira faked his laugh.
“As if the Government didn’t start the chaos we have right now. Our demands are easy. We’ll end the battle if you give us what we want.” Big Ira handed an envelope with their demands on it to Senator Forbes as he opened it immediately.
“You know it’s impossible. Maybe we can make some amendments…” After reading the demands.
“Then there’s nothing to talk.” Big Ira cut the senator before he could finish his sentence. The leader’s face turned like a killer then he stood up, and continued talking.
“You’ve heard from us. If you can’t give our demands, the war continues until we get what we deserve.” The leader went straightly to the door and out of the room. Senator Forbes was speechless. Stunned by how powerful and hard-hearted the leader was.
The next day, Senator Forbes came in late into his office but just in time for the meeting. He immediately distributed the documents to the cabinet members.
“The Demands of The Coalition?” One of the cabinet members said when Senator Forbes started to speak in front.
“Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. Last night, Senator Forbes privately talked with the Marauders to hear their demands. I know some of you disagrees, but it was a decision worth trying. May I now please get your attention and let’s listen to Senator Forbes about his report with The Marauders demands.” The Vice President spoke to the Cabinet Members.