Trump (in the Oval Office, pacing):
They say there’s a Red Cloak figure pulling strings. Very dramatic. Very “movie villain.” My people tell me it’s like Eyes Wide Shut, but with worse lighting.
Webmaster (typing nervously):
Sir, the internet is exploding. Forums are saying this “Red Cloak” character—some aristocratic banker archetype—is threatening your family unless you take out “the founding father of Israel’s enemies.” It’s trending under #PuppetGate.
Croatian Apprentice (earnest, strong accent):
Mr. President, in my village, we say: if someone tries to pull your strings, you cut the strings. You do not dance.
Trump (stops pacing):
Exactly! I don’t want to be anyone’s puppet. Not some secret society. Not some Illuminati fan club with better capes than taste. If I’m anything, I’m a puppet of the American people. The patriots. The voters.
Webmaster:
So how do we message this? Because online, conspiracy culture is mixing fiction and reality. They’re naming real financiers, old families, secret cabals…
Trump:
We don’t name real people. That’s how you get sued. Or worse—fact-checked. We keep it big picture. Archetypes. Shadows. Symbolism. Like a comic book.
Croatian Apprentice:
Yes. Make it mythic. Red Cloak is not a man. He is a symbol of corruption. Of global pressure. Of fear politics.
Trump (points):
I like that. Symbolism. Very classy. So here’s the message: No threats. No shadow deals. No secret oaths in candlelit mansions. America decides America’s policy. Not masked balls.
Webmaster:
And Israel?
Trump:
America supports its allies based on national interest. Not because someone whispers in a velvet room. Not because of fear. If we act, we act openly. Strongly. Proudly.
Croatian Apprentice (smiles):
In Croatia, we say: sunlight is best disinfectant.
Trump:
Exactly. We bring sunlight. No cloaks. No daggers. Just flags.
Webmaster (posting draft):
“Tonight I reaffirm: I serve the American people. Not secret societies. Not fictional villains. Policy will be made in the light of day.”
Trump (nods):
Good. And add something about strength. Always add strength.
Croatian Apprentice:
And freedom.
Trump:
Strength and freedom. Very patriotic. No puppets.