CHAPTER 4. SOMEONE LOSES, SOMEONE FINDS

"Let's make contact and get firsthand assessment."

Phone rings gave way to a confident female voice.

"Yes, circumstances changed, but his inner state remains the same: God's dandelion, disciplined, honest, gentle, yet with backbone. In short, internal emigration—through work and hobbies."

"Internal emigration? Does he drink?"

"Won't touch a drop. Excellent physical condition."

"Feels like a failure?"

"Comfortable that way. Afraid of ambition."

"Clarify 'honest.'"

"Truthful. Like a small child, ready to tell everything to virtual strangers. All information from him later confirms. Sometimes deceives in minor matters, but only to spare loved ones distress. However, flatly refuses to reveal certain information."

"What information creates difficulties?"

"Church leadership meetings are secret. To learn content, simply wait until it bursts out of him. But that's rare."

"Ready for responsible assignment?"

"Generally yes, but what about my son and me?"

"I'm family man too, but that doesn't prevent serving the Motherland. Don't worry, your living standard won't suffer. Will be much better than in your Inner Mongolia. Thank you, stay in touch."

Immediate call to the informant's handler:

"Greetings. Tell me about possible conflict of interest with agent 'Angel.'"

"Don't think there is any. Recent report about satirical verse draft. Based on 'Why the Natives Ate Cook' melody, posed question: 'Why did wolves tear apart Husky?' About that notorious rapper incident. Extracted from pocket before laundry. Conclusion—no concerns."

"Satire published?"

"No. He does this for personal satisfaction."

"What about his soul? Is he an enemy?"

"Common ground possible. He'll gladly help those doing good. Need to convince him through positive aspects."

"Gratitude. Honor to serve."