“We should not rely on others,” said the chairman. “Do you not have any…” he searched for the right word, “suggestion that the Israelis will make another attempt on Hamedi?”

“No, not at this time. But rest assured that I have taken every precaution. On Sunday I will have fifty of my best men on site. No one will get near him.”

“That is good,” said the robe on the right, a man Behrouz knew to be the leading faqih, or Islamic law expert, and consequently the most pious of the lot. “Dr. Hamedi’s progress has been nothing short of miraculous. If Allah wills it, he will soon deliver what we have long sought. We all pray for his safety.”

Behrouz said, “I think I have proved in recent months that I am capable of ensuring it.”

“Your campaign in the synagogues has revealed nothing new?” the chairman asked.

“No, not yet.”

A nod from the center. “And have you conducted any other operations as of late?”

“Operations?” Behrouz said, trying to keep a level voice. He watched an exchange of glances along the table, tilted turbans and a flutter of brown cotton sleeves.

The chairman. “We have learned of a disturbance last night in Molavi. Your ministry had no involvement, I’m sure, as your recent efforts have been focused so completely on Geneva.”

There was a long and heavy pause. Behrouz knew better than to speak.

“I will leave you with one further thought,” the chairman picked up. “As head of our state security apparatus you have performed admirably, and this grants you a certain latitude in running your ministry. But remember one thing, Farzad—you are today not the most critical man in our Islamic Republic. Proceed with care.”

“Yes, Chairman, I understand. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.”

Minutes later Behrouz was descending the massive staircase, his feet stepping quickly. He checked his phone but saw nothing from Rafi. He was not surprised that the council had learned of his raid—the speed of the reprimand, however, spoke volumes. He had seen it happen to his predecessor, a series of small missteps that ended badly for the man. Very badly. He decided it was time to regain the initiative, lest he face a similar fate. As with most men of his ilk, Behrouz had spent a lifetime climbing to the top without consideration for what came afterward. Today, as he hit the bottom of the staircase, his feet skidding momentarily on the polished marble floor, he was beset by a new and disturbing perspective.

On reaching the top, Behrouz realized, there was only one place to go.

And it was not up.

*   *   *