09-22-2014, 11:10 AM
For all that it seemed to make their caution futile, Nikolai's plan was the correct one. In that he gained some measure of relief. However arrogant he might be, he was not stupid. The reconnaissance was only a means to evaluate the potential threat and uncover unwanted surprises. Breaking in to the residence would not have endeared them to a potential ally.
Following the Ascendancy's lead, Michael took note of his earlier suggestion. Of course, he hadn't informed Nikolai for the same reason the man had come himself with only three guards on New Years eve, but now was not the time to discuss trivialities.
As for Nikolai's question, he was not interested in proving himself with words. It was not for lack of faith in his abilities. It was simply a question that an answer would not satisfy. His manner was impartial to the questioning, once again focused on the task.
While Nikolai did the honours, knocking on the door, Michael was prepared to strike in the event of hostilities. He had given the matter some thought and decided on a course of action. His response would be twofold using simple nets to balance the disadvantage.
They waited, feeling the beacon as it moved towards the door. There was nothing abnormal in the pattern that suggested hostility or awareness. No sudden or unexpected movements. Just a man answering a knock at the door.
Michael was on the precipice of the torrent when a wall of warmth split the cold air. His gaze fixed on the face that he had memorized. Valdir Schenzek. The man showed no sign of recognition, even with the Ascendancy's headband on display.
"Welcome!"
he said, spreading his arms wide. "It has been some time since I have had visitors. Please, come in!"
Michael's eyes narrowed, but he said nothing. Schenzek seemed quite taken by the grandiose of Nikolai's appearance, and he would make sure that it stayed that way.
Following the Ascendancy's lead, Michael took note of his earlier suggestion. Of course, he hadn't informed Nikolai for the same reason the man had come himself with only three guards on New Years eve, but now was not the time to discuss trivialities.
As for Nikolai's question, he was not interested in proving himself with words. It was not for lack of faith in his abilities. It was simply a question that an answer would not satisfy. His manner was impartial to the questioning, once again focused on the task.
While Nikolai did the honours, knocking on the door, Michael was prepared to strike in the event of hostilities. He had given the matter some thought and decided on a course of action. His response would be twofold using simple nets to balance the disadvantage.
They waited, feeling the beacon as it moved towards the door. There was nothing abnormal in the pattern that suggested hostility or awareness. No sudden or unexpected movements. Just a man answering a knock at the door.
Michael was on the precipice of the torrent when a wall of warmth split the cold air. His gaze fixed on the face that he had memorized. Valdir Schenzek. The man showed no sign of recognition, even with the Ascendancy's headband on display.
"Welcome!"
he said, spreading his arms wide. "It has been some time since I have had visitors. Please, come in!"
Michael's eyes narrowed, but he said nothing. Schenzek seemed quite taken by the grandiose of Nikolai's appearance, and he would make sure that it stayed that way.
"She saw a flaring halo around his head, radiant in gold and blue. It shouted of glory and power to come"
"No matter how fast light travels, it finds the darkness has always got there first, and is waiting for it."