Prologue
They sat in an office, the younger man and his older colleague. They faced each other across the worn desk, each reclining in chairs that creaked whenever they moved. Their drinks remained untouched. The bare walls reflected the coldness of the light from the ceiling tiles.
This wasn’t a room to be enjoyed, or one to call attention to itself. And that was fine, because this conversation was one for the shadows.
“So things are in place?” the older man asked, in a tone that suggested he already knew the answer.
“The situation is contained,” said the younger. “I foresee no problems that cannot be overcome.”
“But I’m still concerned. Our primary contact…”
“Remains accessible. Do not worry.”
The older man shrugged. “It’s my job to worry.”
“Understood. But your concerns are unf
