Alexei opened his eyes as sunlight shone through the cabin. He could hear the rumbling sound of the engine and seagulls. He felt rested and at peace for the first time in a long time. He stepped out onto the deck and realized that they were docked. He could see a black sedan in the distance. Julius was leaning on one side of the car.
“Did you sleep well?” Captain Ramsey asked.
“Incredibly well.”
“Good, you will need the rest for the trials to come.”
Captain Ramsey extended a hand. They shook for several seconds.
“Good luck, my friend. I hope we meet again, under better circumstances.”
“Thanks for your hospitality and safe passage, Captain.”
Alexei walked to the sedan where Julius waited. He felt optimism for the first time in years.
“Ready to go, Boss?”
“Yes. I’m eager to get started.”
As soon as Alexei and Julius were seated, the car started moving. The scenery was barren and bleak. Large rocks protruded in several places along the rough road. The vehicle shook as the cement turned into gravel.
“Not the paradise you were expecting?” Julius asked.
“This island looks deserted.”
“I assure you it is not,” the driver said. “There are all manner of creatures here, ranging from wild jackals to a variety of reptiles. Wandering off, especially at night, can be fatal.”
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“Good to know. I didn’t get your name?”
“Roscoe,” the driver replied.
The sedan started its ascent up a steep hill, and the width of the road decreased dramatically. The sedan stopped several hundred feet above sea level. Roscoe opened the passenger door. Alexei stepped out onto a surface that resembled blacktop.
Roscoe led them to a plain wall with no visible entry point. He pushed a brick, which revealed a handle, which in turn revealed a downward spiral staircase. Alexei and Julius followed Roscoe down the narrow staircase thirty feet. Roscoe led them to a large room that resembled a waiting area. Two couches and a coffee table were visible.
“You must be hungry after your voyage. We have prepared a meal for you,” Roscoe said.
The next room contained a large rectangular table and twelve chairs. Several lamps illuminated the room. Two place settings were made at the far side of the table. Alexei and Julius took their places at the table. Between the place settings was an empty chair.
“Good morning, Gentlemen. My name is Malcolm. I’m your host for the gathering. Breakfast will be served momentarily. After that, I will show you to your quarters.”
As soon as Malcolm finished speaking, a plate of bacon and over-easy eggs was placed in front of Alexei. A plate with a bagel, cream cheese, and lox was placed in front of Julius. Alexei and Julius shared a puzzled look.
“How did you know what we like?”
“The Shadow Dealers always do our homework,” Malcolm said. “Now eat, and when you’re finished I will give you the grand tour!”
Alexei devoured the breakfast in record time and was finished before Julius had finished the first half of his bagel. As promised, Malcolm gave Alexei and Julius a tour of the facility, which was inside the wall of a cliff. Alexei thought he could see his reflection in the polished stone of the walls and floors. The tour ended at the guest quarters.
“Is there Wi-Fi available?” Julius asked.
Malcolm glared at Julius as if he had cursed.
“No, I’m afraid this facility is in a no-Wi-Fi zone. A cocktail reception with all meeting participants will be held in the main hall at five sharp. Please, do not be late.”
Alexei unpacked his two suits he brought for the negotiations, as he had found that dressing the part of a leader was essential. He wanted to look perfect. Despite being carved into a cliff, the room was bright. He went over to close the drapes and stopped. He was greeted by a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean. Far below, he could see vegetation and a small lake. He closed the drapes, then drifted off to sleep.