Operation Rock of Ages: Exodus

ORA: Exodus Chapters 17 - 21

CHAPTER 17

"It's me, Z," Zaid said and waited to be connected to the Man. "We have some Americans coming to show off the same helicopter that Mrs. Namir escaped in to the King. They are here to negotiate for a factory in Jordan."

"Let it happen," the Man said, "it would be nice to have all that new technology in our hands. Think of how many we could build for ourselves. When we are done with Israel, we will turn our eyes on Jordan. Make sure we have a way in, Zaid. When it is time, I want access inside."

"I am sure they will require help. I will make sure I am helpful when it comes to that," Zaid replied.

"Good. The Israeli President is in hiding and we cannot reach him. Maybe it is time to find Mrs. Namir to flush him out. It is getting close, Zaid. The elections are less than a year away. Get a message to the Rabbi, tell him to tone the disciples down some. Let there be peace in Israel for a bit to see if that will get him out from whatever rock he is under. If not, we will go hunting for his wife."

"Yes, sir. So leave the Americans alone?"

"For now, I want that factory. I will get a message to Saul, he will see that they are left alone."

"Yes sir." The phone disconnected before he had a chance to say anything more. Sometimes the Man was so arrogant, Zaid thought, but he got up to do his bidding nonetheless.

Elsewhere in Jordan ...

"Mariam! Jayson! Welcome back to Jordan!" Omar said as they disembarked from the helo. "We have so much to talk about!" He grabbed Mariam's hand and turned it knuckles up. He looked at Jayson in surprise but then kissed Mariam's hand in greeting to cover up his confusion. He gave Jayson an enthusiastic handshake next. The pilots stepped off the chopper and stood beside Jayson, who promptly introduced them.

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Rowan. Ah, Mr. Jensen! I am very glad to meet you as well! I have enjoyed our conversations immensely." He shook both their hands in a friendly manner and offered his arm to Mariam as he walked away. Mr. Rowan quickly secured the chopper and joined them. "I will show you to your rooms. The King asks for your forgiveness, he was called away but should be available later this day."

He opened the door for Mariam and she climbed into the stretch limo that they had been in before. After they were all settled in Omar began talking again, "I saw the movie you made, Mariam. It was wonderful! Very well done for first time filmmakers, I was quite impressed."

"Thank you, Omar, that is very kind of you," Mariam said, smiling. "How is your wife and children? I never did get those pictures by the fountain."

"They will be at dinner tonight. Well, maybe. One of my sons has had a fever. If he still does my wife will stay with him but, if my other son has no fever, he will be sitting by my side. My cousin, the King, likes to flout some traditions while being quite stubborn on others. He allows the women, men and children to dine together. That is not always done in Jordan," Omar said. "You will, of course, need to wear the hijab before the King, Mariam."

"Oh, Omar, could we go shopping later today, before we meet the King? I do not have something nice enough to wear before him. I was not feeling well before we left, so I did not do my packing. A friend, remember Sasha? She came and helped me pack; I was determined not to miss seeing you again," Mariam asked, talking fast in her nervousness. "I know she didn't get in the closet to pull out my best dress, and if she had, it is ruined in my suitcase. I didn't know we were going to meet the King."

Omar patted her hand. "Mariam, it's ok," he laughed. "I will arrange for you all to go shopping, as you like. We will make a day of it like the first time, if you like." Mariam relaxed and smiled.