John smiled. "Stay back, or you will find out too quickly." He unzipped his heavy Arctic clothing, removed a heavy container, shaped to conform to his chest, and laid it on the table. A cord ran from the container into his sleeve.
The Peoplesfriend laughed. "High explosives? You would not set them off. However—Jacob, let them keep their weapons. This will be over shortly."
They glared at each other for a moment.
"There is no conference?"
"There is no conference."
"Then why this farce?"
The eastern leader wore a tight smile. He glanced at his watch, began counting backwards: "Seven, six, five, four—"
When he reached zero, there was a long pause; then a sharp whistle from outside.
"Your men are now disarmed," said the Asian. "Your cadre commander is ours."
"Impossible! The recheck—"