The Sixth Seal полностью

“They usually are, yes. This is technically a solo mission. You alone will be representing TAC. The individuals you are meeting are not agents of ours, but they do possess the skillsets to make this operation successful.” Eddy sighed. “Unfortunately, they also represent foreign nations.”

“Why is that unfortunate?”

“Because of the way we operate and what our goals are. We like to stay in control.”

“Obviously. There’s a lot of money to be had out there.”

“Exactly. Trust is a must.” She laughed softly. “I know it’s cliché, Zahra, but it’s also true.”

“Can we trust these team members of mine?” Zahra asked.

“I believe so, yes,” Eddy replied. “Okay, so the first member of your team will naturally represent the German government.”

“Naturally…”

“My contact has assured me that he will find you someone you can rely on.”

“Good to hear. What about the other member?”

“So, there’s something you should know…”

Here it comes. Zahra knew everything couldn’t be this cut and dry.

“First things first, how’s your Russian?”

“Fine, but what does that have to do with this?” Zahra replied, speaking fluent Russian.

“Excuse me?”

Zahra repeated the response in English.

“Oh, yes. Well, your next team member will represent the Russian third of your lineup, though…”

“Though, what?” Zahra asked, pausing her pacing.

“Though Yana doesn’t actually represent the Kremlin.”

“Who does this Yana represent?”

“Theoretically, she represents herself. Yana did some work for us recently, and she comes highly recommended by one of our best agents. Her off-the-books profession includes cold climate operations.”

Zahra put two and two together. “You’ve set me up with a Russian mercenary?”

“Um, yes… Yana is a disgruntled former FSB operative, which is a good thing. You won’t have to worry about her intentions. She is being paid to be loyal to you and TAC only.”

“Good, I guess?” Zahra started to pace again.

“Look, Zahra, Yana was our best option. We don’t exactly have a lot of friends within the current Russian regime.”

“It’s fine, Eddy. I trust your judgment. Raegor does, too. That’s enough for me.”

“Thank you, Zahra. Yana will act as your number two. She has a lot of field experience and her personality… Well, let’s say that you two should get along great.”

Zahra wasn’t sure how to take that. So, she ignored it and kept her mouth shut.

“Okay, Zahra, that’s about it. Pack lightly and wait for your itinerary to arrive via email. Your gear will already be in your hotel room in Chile. More will be waiting for you when you land in Antarctica.”

“Sure. Uh, thanks, Eddy.”

“You’re welcome, and Zahra?”

“Yeah?”

“Take a moment to breathe. I’m sure you’ll do fine. Eddy out.”

Zahra turned and placed her phone on the patio table. Then she leaned on it with both hands, closed her eyes, and breathed, just as Eddy had suggested. Zahra knew she was more than qualified to take on a job like this.

Cork was the first to speak. “Antarctica, huh?”

Zahra nodded, opened her eyes, and looked at her friend. “Yeah, Antarctica.”

Cork picked up her mug. “Well, like I said, wear layers or freeze your nips off.”