“We were sleeping,” he said, talking slowly. “Some men came into the cottage. We never lock the doors out here. They wanted to know where the people in the boat were. I didn't know what they were talking about at first, then I realized they wanted you. So naturally I said I didn't know. They beat me until I was unconscious.”

“I ran off to warn the Trouts,” Yuri said. “I didn't want to leave you. They came looking for us. We hid in the woods until they were gone.”

Orlov reached out and put his hand on Yuri's shoulder. “You did the right thing.”

He motioned for more vodka. The drink seemed to clear his mind, and the scientific analysis of cause and effect came into play.

Looking Paul directly in the eye, he said, “Well, my friend, it seems you and Gamay made some interesting friends in the short time you have been here. On your little sightseeing trip, perhaps?”

“I'm truly sorry. I'm afraid we're responsible for this mess,” Paul said. “It was entirely unanticipated. We made your son a partner in crime, too.”

Paul told Orlov that NUMA was investigating Ataman and related the events surrounding their boat trip.

“Ataman?” Orlov said. “In a way, I can't say I'm surprised at their violent reaction. Huge cartels tend to act as if they are above the law.”

Gamay said, “There was a strange man on the yacht. He had a thin face, long black hair and a beard. Was that Razov?”

“It doesn't sound like him. Probably his friend, the mad monk.”

“Pardon me?”

“His name is Boris. I don't even know if he has a last name. He is said to be Razov's éminence grise, his mentor. Few people have seen him. You're very lucky.”

“I don't know if I'd call it lucky,” Gamay said. “I'm sure he saw us, too.”

“He's probably the one who called out the hounds,” Paul said.

Orlov groaned. “That's where we are in Russia today. Thugs advised by mad monks. I can't believe Razov has become such a powerful political figure in our country.”

“I was wondering,” Paul said. “How did they know where to find us? I'm pretty sure Yuri lost them.”

“Maybe the bigger question is what they intended to do after they found us.” Gamay turned to the professor and his son. “We're profoundly sorry for what happened. Please tell us how we can make it up to you.”

“Perhaps a little help in rebuilding my cottage,” Orlov said, after some thought.

“That goes without saying,” Paul said.

“Anything else?” Orlov furrowed his brow. “One more thing,” he said, his face lighting up. “As you know, Yuri is intent on visiting the United States.”

“Consider it done, with the condition that you come along.”

The professor could barely control his pleasure, “You drive a hard bargain, my friend.”