‘Before I talk, I want certain assurances,’ he said.

‘You’re in no position to bargain,’ Mallet replied.

Lang pretended to ignore him and continued to speak directly to the laptop. To the unseen voice in Vauxhall.

‘If I tell you what I know, I want your word that you’ll protect me and my family from the Russians. The gold-star package. Police protection, security details, new identities, the works.’

Silence.

‘We can live with that,’ said the Voice finally. ‘But we can only help you if you answer our questions. If you cooperate fully, we’ll do everything we can to keep you safe.’

Bowman felt his muscles tense with anger. He could barely believe what he was hearing. ‘Why are we pushing the boat our for this guy?’ he growled. ‘He’s a criminal, for Christ’s sake.’

‘Shut up,’ Mallet snapped.

‘Start talking, David,’ said the Voice. ‘Tell us what you’re planning with the Russians.’

‘There’s a deal,’ said Lang. ‘Between President Seguma and the Kremlin. I’ve been working as a go-between for both sides. But you’re wrong about one thing. It ain’t about changing allegiance.’

‘What, then?’

Lang hesitated.

‘Talk,’ Mallet hissed threateningly.

‘The Russians are going to convince Seguma to stand down,’ said Lang. ‘He’ll announce his resignation as president. Today.’

‘That’s why you’re meeting the Russians later?’ Bowman asked. ‘To make this announcement?’

Lang nodded feebly.

‘It’s going to be broadcast on state radio and TV in Karatandu. Then the Russians are going to take over the country by force. Put their own man in charge. And there’s nothing you can do to stop them.’

Sixteen

Sixteen

There was a beat of cold silence in the room. Bowman sat very still, the breath trapped in his throat. He saw Mallet’s jawline visibly tense, the skin stretching across his weathered face. Lang hung his head low and stared at a spot between his feet. Then Mallet spoke up.

‘You and your Russian mates must be living in la-la land. Why would Seguma agree to give up the throne?’

Lang slowly lifted his head. ‘He doesn’t have a choice. The Russians are going to launch a military coup, with the backing of the KUF.’

‘Who the fuck are they?’

‘The Karatandu United Front. The main rebel paramilitary force.’

Bowman said, ‘I’ve heard of them. There was an interview on TV with their leader yesterday. Some bloke with golden teeth.’

‘Kakuba,’ Lang said. ‘General Moses Kakuba. He’s ex-army. Used to be one of Seguma’s most loyal officers. He switched sides a few years ago. Reckons he was overlooked for a promotion because of his tribal heritage. Now he leads the armed wing of the KUF. Fancies himself as the next president of Karatandu.’

‘He’ll get it, if he’s doing a deal with the Russians.’