Chapter 39

Vladimir's internal turmoil reached a boiling point as John's words echoed in his ears: "The USSR... is dying!" His jaw clenched, bulging with the force of his suppressed anger. He gripped his fists so tightly that the veins stood out prominently.

John and Vladimir locked eyes in a tense standoff, both aware of the brewing tension. Concerned about an impending brawl, Andreevich intervened, firmly holding Vladimir back. He leaned close to Vladimir, whispering a series of words in Russian, mixing in some dialects for good measure. Although John couldn't decipher the exact content of the conversation, it was apparent that Vladimir's fury subsided to some extent. He grabbed a pack of cigarettes from the table, headed for the door, and closed it with deliberate force.

"Mr. John, please forgive him. He's a bit hot-tempered," Andreevich offered as an apology, his eyes averted. His face bore the confident, yet insincere, smile of a seasoned liar.

Taking advantage of the situation, Andreevich poured a generous glass of vodka for himself and John. The vodka, weighing about a pound per glass, represented an unspoken peace offering. After downing his glass in a single gulp, Andreevich wiped the remnants of the liquor from his mouth, his eyes gleaming with greed and desire.

John played along, sensing that he had found the key to Andreevich's vulnerability. "We have a shipment of daily necessities en route," he revealed. "It includes canned goods and winter coats."

Andreevich's eyes practically turned green with avarice, and he couldn't contain his excitement.

"Our boss will arrive in Kyiv in three days," John continued, letting Andreevich in on the plan. "We hope you can extend your hospitality to him. He prefers dealing with straightforward people. Let's ensure our cooperation proceeds smoothly."

"Of course, no worries," Andreevich assured, enthusiastic and eager. "Whatever you like, we can provide it for you."

"Mr. Colonel..." John glanced in Vladimir's direction.

Andreevich frowned slightly but then made up his mind. "No one can make the Ukrainian people abandon their pursuit of happiness," he declared firmly.

John raised his glass, offering a toast. "Cheers!"

With this understanding, John knew that Vladimir's earlier hostility was likely quelled. If Vladimir had a sense of humor, he might even find the situation amusing. After all, in the world of business, alliances could form even among unlikely bedfellows.

At the crucial moment, pragmatism often took precedence over principles.

Three days later, a Boeing 757-200 touched down at Munich Airport in Germany, where it remained parked for nearly four hours. Onlookers observed crates and pallets loaded onto the plane, all bearing documentation from a German foreign trade company. According to the bills presented, these shipments were categorized as essential daily necessities, totaling approximately 70 tons. The airport staff, while surprised by the quantity, found no fault in the completed and legal procedures.

The Southwest Airlines cargo plane departed precisely at 10:17 PM and landed at Kyiv Boryspil Airport at 2:56 AM. As the plane taxied to a halt, the airport staff began their work.

Robert and the NOCS team emerged from the plane, maintaining a vigilant watch over their surroundings. Tang Dao, in stark contrast, appeared disheveled in a suit. He had discarded his tie, allowing his shirt buttons to remain undone, presenting a picture more reminiscent of a European trust-fund kid. Despite the discomfort of the flight, Tang Dao managed to keep from vomiting.

As they awaited further instructions, the sound of approaching engines drew their attention. Four antiquated military jeeps, each adorned with Ukrainian military insignia, came to a halt about ten meters away. Osborne and John stepped out of the lead jeep, accompanied by a man in a military uniform whose rank remained unclear.

"Boss," Osborne greeted enthusiastically. He had been living the high life in Kyiv for the past few days, attracting local tycoons like moths to a flame. How had Andreevich even found him in the first place? Osborne's uncle held a high position in the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, boasting the rank of lieutenant general. He was also one of the shareholders of a club in Kyiv. Osborne's carelessness had inadvertently leaked information about a business venture involving a large sum of money. This had stirred up excitement in the air, especially considering the high-level officials' discussions about Ukraine's potential independence from the Soviet Union.

In such times, Andreevich needed money. With more funds, he could secure a better future for himself and his family, even potentially planning an escape abroad if things took a turn for the worse.

Tang Dao nodded, offering a polite smile as he observed the major general and others who had gathered. "This is General Medevichuk, Mr. Andreyevich, and Colonel Vladimir," John took the initiative to introduce, "This is our boss, Nicholas."

"Welcome to Ukraine, sir," General Medevichuk greeted with composure, extending a hand for a handshake. His speech was deliberate and measured, but his eyes remained fixed on the cargo plane, conveying an unspoken message.

Tang Dao offered some brief words of gratitude and proceeded to shake hands with everyone present. As he reached out to shake Vladimir's hand, he couldn't help but notice the intense and unrelenting grip from the Ukrainian. Although no words were exchanged, the tension in the air was palpable.

What puzzled Tang Dao, however, was why they had been picked up in the middle of the night if Vladimir was so averse to their presence. Was this a mere show of dominance? Were the Ukrainians merely flaunting their position?

Despite the tense undercurrents, the group engaged in polite formalities, making an effort to set aside their reservations.

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