The War Room at the Volkov estate was a study in cold, efficient power. It was situated deep underground, soundproofed and shielded, a stark contrast to the luxurious warmth of our bedroom upstairs. A massive, central table made of smooth, dark wood dominated the space, currently displaying a projected, three-dimensional map of Europe, with key operational nodes highlighted in pulsing red and calming blue.

I sat beside Vladimir, my posture straight, my presence a deliberate act of force. I was ...