Fallout

[Ascendancy]

Viktor's eyes scrutinized the two men coming their direction. At his left and right, the highly trained Barrier agents undertook their own study. The detective was obvious to their eyes, even Viktor could see it in the man's walk. CDPS, competent CDPS, were distinct from their peers. Alongside was the one Viktor assumed to be Jensen. There had been a government issue photo in the report sent by the Under-consul, but seeing the man in the flesh was always different.

Viktor stepped forward slightly and offered to shake hands. "Mister James, thank you for coming. Or do you prefer Pastor James?"
There had been information in the file about Jensen's previous employment, and pastor had been among the list, but Viktor hadn't read any details about the man's tenure leading a church. Viktor was not religious, but a priest was more common in Moscow anyway. He was admittedly naive on the traditions of a pastor.

He turned to greet the detective, but to Viktor, Ivan was little more than an errand boy. He was grateful for his success in finding Jensen, but of little more importance than that. The Under-consul had not explained why Ivan was delegated the task, although he mentioned something about a certain CDPS detective certain to be loyal to the Ascendancy. Trusting no one but himself, Viktor demanded an explanation if they were going to trust this immense secret with a random detective. Only after the circumstances of Ivan's loyalty was assured had Viktor given the approval."Detective, good work. The Ascendancy trusts you, so I trust you. I'll make sure he knows what you did tonight."


Speaking of trust, Viktor turned back to Jensen. "Not that we don't trust you, Mister James, but these men will need to search you before allowing you with the Ascendancy. Although knowing what these channelers can do, I don't know how useful it is, but humor us a moment,"
with that, Viktor waved the agents to conduct the frisk. Detective Sarkozy was allowed to keep his firearm, but only after disclosing it and any other weapons to the agents.

Viktor crossed his arms and watched, and only once he was satisfied did he nod. The agents immediately followed the order. Until the Ascendancy was awake, he was effectively in charge of the Custody.

"This way."
He led Ivan and Jensen inside the room and two Barrier agents followed close on their heels.