Free Sic Semper Tyrannis by Marcus Richardson

materiel through open desert like this?”
    Po Sin nodded.  “There is an element of risk, yes.  But we have analyzed all threats and have come to the conclusion that this route not only provides the most safety for our personnel, but also the fastest—resistance-free—route into the underbelly of America.”  He pulled a map out of his own file and handed it to Shin Ho.  “As you can see here, now that we have gained a foothold in Nogales, we can funnel everything north and west.  We will use the American highway system to ship our forces straight across Arizona and California.”
    Shin Ho sighed.  “I’m to meet with the Russians this evening.  They’re going to want to know the timetable going forward.”
    “Ah yes—tell me, are they having much success with their little adventure in…where was it that they landed?  Georgia?”
    “Florida.”
    “Ah,” said Po Sin.  “I visited Florida last year on vacation.  Wonderful place.  Completely infested with tourists, but some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen.”
    “Indeed,” said the Undersecretary through a frown.  “They have taken control of Miami with the help of our Cuban friends and are pushing north.  Their aim is to use Florida as a springboard to the heart of the American South. Now…The timetable?”
    “Of course,” said Po Sin.  Arrogant snot.   You will not long sit that chair, I promise you.   He smiled and handed over another document from his file.  “We’re going ahead with Phase Two.  The next wave of supply ships and troop transports will be leaving Dinghai at dawn.  Estimated arrival is two weeks, barring any major storms or naval engagements.  The Navy will be conducting offensives around Hawaii, which should keep America’s attention long enough for the task force to slip past.”
    “And you think the Expeditionary Force can cut through Arizona and California and reach the coast in two weeks?”
    Po Sin adjusted his glasses to hide his anger.  “Sir, have we not crossed half of Mexico—through inhospitable desert, I might add—breached the border and brought an entire army into the United States, virtually undetected?  And we did all that in less than two weeks.”  He shook his head.  “No, the American people are scared and hiding—the ones that have survived the starvation and gang wars, that is.  Their own people are tearing the nation apart and their government is all but helpless to respond, especially now that President Reed is dead.”  He chuckled.  “That was an unexpected stroke of good fortune.”
    “Yes, you must see that it is not wasted.”
    Po Sin nodded in submission. “Of course, Undersecretary.  To that end, I believe we should open a dialog with Mr. Suthby—”
    Shin Ho looked confused.  “A cabinet official?”
    “True, he was the Director of their Emergency Management Agency—but now he is de-facto President.  An alliance with him could prove…useful.  I believe he will not be unwilling to cooperate with us.”
    The Undersecretary leaned back in his chair to the sound of squealing hinges.  He steepled his fingers in thought and looked at the ceiling.  “We could send out feelers to our Senators and Congressmen.  Perhaps they can do something to get Mr. Suthby to agree to a non-aggression pact?”
    “After we take Southern California, of course,” prompted Po Sin.  Everything hinged on gaining access to a deep-water port like San Diego or Los Angeles.
    “Of course,” said the Shin Ho, absently waving his hand.  “I like this idea, my friend.  If we can help to establish Suthby as the legitimate ruler he’ll be even more inclined to leave us to our own devices.”
    “After all,” said Po Sin in agreement.  “He has to contend with Russia and the U.N. invading the East Coast.”
    The Supreme Leader let his chair return him upright and place both hands on his desk.  He fixed Po Sin with a dangerous stare.  “Po Sin, I’m going to trust you