Assassin’s Revenge–A David Slaton Novel
Chapter 53: Fifty-Three
by Larsen, WardSlaton, after reviewing files for a second time, identifies inconsistencies in El-Masri’s account of uranium thefts orchestrated by North Korea. He questions why North Korea, already a nuclear power, would need enriched uranium and why the thefts involved small, risky extractions from multiple locations instead of larger, more efficient hauls. Despite these doubts, Slaton remains convinced of El-Masri’s credibility due to corroborating evidence, including Mordechai’s research and recent encounters with Asian operatives. His primary concern, however, is how this information will help him locate his wife, Christine, and son, Davy.
As Slaton reflects on his next steps, he grapples with the overwhelming challenge of confronting an entire nation. The sound of a choir in the church hallway momentarily distracts him, but he quickly refocuses, realizing he must act decisively. After securing the flash drive and leaving a note for Sister Magda, he exits the church, feeling a sense of clarity and purpose. The flash drive, a critical lead, solidifies his resolve to pursue the truth and protect his family.
Slaton purchases a disposable phone and contacts a trusted associate, arranging a high-stakes meeting in Frankfurt to share his findings about Park Hai-joon, a suspected North Korean intelligence officer. The urgency of the situation is palpable, but Slaton must wait nine hours for the meeting. Despite the delay, he recognizes the necessity of face-to-face communication to ensure the information is handled securely. His tactical mindset shifts from reactive to proactive as he prepares for the next phase of his mission.
The chapter concludes with Slaton’s cautious optimism, underscored by his strategic planning and the gravity of the intelligence he possesses. The interplay of doubt, determination, and tactical precision highlights his resourcefulness in navigating a complex and dangerous situation. As he awaits the meeting, Slaton’s focus remains unwavering: leveraging the flash drive’s information to uncover the truth and reunite with his family.
FAQs
1. What are the two key inconsistencies Slaton identifies in El-Masri’s version of events regarding the uranium thefts?
Answer:
Slaton identifies two main inconsistencies in El-Masri’s account. First, he questions why North Korea, which already has an established nuclear capability, would need to acquire highly enriched uranium—a move that seems redundant. Second, he finds it illogical that the thefts involved extracting small amounts of material from multiple shipments when larger quantities could have been stolen in some instances (e.g., from research labs in Ghana and Kazakhstan). This piecemeal approach appears unnecessarily risky compared to fewer, larger-scale thefts. These inconsistencies suggest there may be hidden motives or missing details in El-Masri’s story.2. How does Slaton’s emotional and tactical mindset shift throughout the chapter?
Answer:
Slaton begins the chapter in a state of analytical doubt, questioning the logic of El-Masri’s claims despite the corroborating evidence. He then grapples with despair, realizing the daunting scale of confronting an entire nation to rescue his family. However, by the chapter’s end, his mindset shifts decisively toward proactive strategy. He takes concrete steps (e.g., acquiring a burner phone, arranging a meeting) and regains a sense of control, noting he’s “shifting from reacting to something better.” The sacred music and flash drive symbolize hope, reinforcing his resolve to act.3. Analyze the significance of the meeting Slaton arranges in Frankfurt. What does this reveal about his priorities and constraints?
Answer:
The Frankfurt meeting underscores Slaton’s prioritization of leverage and security. By sharing critical information about Park Hai-joon with a trusted contact, he aims to gain allies while maintaining control—insisting on an in-person meeting to avoid compromised communication. The nine-hour wait highlights his constrained options; though he could arrive sooner, he must operate within the other party’s timeline. This reflects his broader dilemma: balancing urgency with the need for caution in a high-stakes scenario where trust is limited and North Korea’s reach is vast.4. Why might the author juxtapose the sacred choir music with Slaton’s tactical planning?
Answer:
The juxtaposition of the “Ave Maria” choir music with Slaton’s strategizing creates a thematic contrast between redemption and conflict. The music, emanating from the church, symbolizes morality and spiritual solace, temporarily grounding Slaton amid his turmoil. This moment of reflection precedes his decisive action, suggesting clarity born from stillness. The sacred setting also ironically frames his morally ambiguous mission—using espionage and violence to save his family—adding depth to his character as someone navigating between idealism and pragmatism.5. How does the flash drive serve as both a practical and symbolic element in the chapter?
Answer:
Practically, the flash drive provides Slaton with verified intelligence (e.g., theft patterns linked to Park) that validates his next steps. Symbolically, it’s termed a “godsend,” representing unexpected aid in his desperate quest. Its contents bridge doubt and conviction, mirroring Slaton’s transition from uncertainty to resolve. The drive’s physical presence in his pocket also contrasts with the intangible threats he faces (e.g., North Korea’s power), embodying a tangible tool to combat systemic adversaries.
Quotes
1. “After completing his second run-through of the files, Slaton leaned back in the worn office chair. He rubbed his hands over his face and studied the high arches. As so often happened, the initial elation of getting a breakthrough gave way to new channels of doubt.”
This quote captures Slaton’s analytical mindset and the cyclical nature of intelligence work—initial success often leads to deeper questions. It sets the tone for the chapter’s tension between discovery and uncertainty.
2. “But I can’t take on an entire country.”
A pivotal moment where Slaton confronts the scale of his challenge, recognizing the limitations of individual action against state-sponsored threats. This admission of vulnerability contrasts with his usual competence.
3. “Ever so subtly, Slaton’s mindset was shifting. After so many days of reacting, he felt the brace of something better.”
This marks a turning point where Slaton transitions from defensive to proactive strategy. The psychological shift underscores his resilience and adaptability under pressure.
4. “‘I have information, something I think you’d consider critical. It involves a man named Park Hai-joon, North Korean—I’ve been told he’s a high-ranking SSD officer.’”
The key exposition that moves the plot forward, revealing both Slaton’s leverage and the geopolitical stakes. The terse, professional delivery reflects his operational discipline during high-stakes negotiations.
5. “The flash drive in his pocket had indeed been a godsend.”
A concise metaphor that ties together the chapter’s themes of providence and preparedness. The religious imagery (“godsend”) contrasts with the secular espionage context, highlighting the story’s moral dimensions.