They were escorted by Nikolai's henchmen until there was a hundred meters separating them and the fortress of bare, Soviet era concrete.
"Well done." The American praised him. "It's been at least five years since you've went about in this career without using your powers."
"It's too early to say anything yet. They will eventually find out about us." Answered John.
Along with Yoshikawa and Shinobu, they got into a light colored SUV, of which the armour was hard to notice in order to not raise suspicion. The signature van of ITEM followed closely behind. The driver turned on the radio as different channels picked up latest information about what happened this morning. "No civilian casualties." "A local private company under a security contract engaged a group of terrorists of unknown background." John smirked when a channel mentioned that "all terrorists has been eliminated."
"Fake news indeed. Sometimes a lie helps with suppressing panic."
"Hopefully the government realizes the dire situation." Shinobu said.
"I've booked this place to stay. Hopefully we'll keep in touch with Nikolai."
Not far away from them, they saw the brightly lit Moscow Kremlin and the Saint Basil's Cathedral. It constituted an interesting view, with religious and political authority playing their separate roles.
"At your core you're a scientist, so is Nikolai. Sometimes it's good to just forget about politics and think of what contributions you can make to the world." Shinobu added casually.
John smirked again. For no reason.
The hotel in downtown Moscow was certainly suitable for a foreign diplomat to stay. The American walked towards the reception, while the rest waited on the couches in the lobby. John remembered the hotel he used as a temporary base of operations when attacking the Level 6 lab with Misaka. They were friends back then. "I will use her again, if I really have to." John though to himself. He recognized a familiar face not far away from them. It was Jimmy, from Las Vegas, in a nice suit, his usual curly hair had gel on it. Initially he was recruited by the American scientist to run his casinos, before rising up the ranks and becoming in charge of all his finance. Now their mutual trust has reached a new height. Jimmy took even more responsibility managing his private military and signing secret contracts with government agencies. John's eyes caught his. Out of politeness he waved, and Jimmy reciprocated the universal gesture. Having quit marijuana, he appeared refreshed. Tomorrow he is going to be mediating the meetings. As for now, they shall rest.