As Valerij left to organize his force, Boris was thinking of all the ways in which things could go wrong. "Risk assessment" was what he called it. He wanted no loose ends or surprises. More importantly, he wanted to avoid killing. Valerij soon appeared back at his side.

"Any problems?" asked Boris.

"Nyet, all is well," replied Valerij.

They waited for the scout to reappear.

Within a short time, someone moved into position beside Valerij. The ...