Alexei Breven sat in his subterranean office below the cottage. He pulled up The Collective’s problem dashboard, which consisted of a listing of eliminations that were pending. Paid eliminations or threats to business operations had the highest priority. Alexei pressed the intercom button.

“Please send in Ioann.”

A tall, physically-fit, middle-aged man appeared.

“Privyet, Alexei.”

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“How are you, my old friend?”

“I’ve been keeping occupied with some freelance work, which has been drying up in recent years. Not many have need for an old fixer like me.”

“Well, I asked you here because I do have need of your services. There is something off about the organization,” Alexei said. “I will pay double your normal rate. I need someone I can trust to take care of some wet work.”

“I’m wrapping up a job now but can be available in a few days. Is that okay?”

“Yes, that should be fine.” Alexei threw a rather large envelope in Ioann’s direction. “This is a sign-on bonus. From now on, I’m your only client.”