(Untitled)

[gabriel_tam]

Parliament may not be in session at the moment, nor the Council of Seven in deliberation, but that doesn't mean that there's not work to be done. In fact, it's often the weeks between sessions that make for busier days, Gabriel's found, as it's during those weeks that everyone with a particular issue to press tries for appointments, meetings, or

Comments

[walk_ins]

The man who comes in behind Mark is of medium height and build, with nondescript features enlivened only slightly by a blandly cheerful smile. He looks entirely out of place in the crisp uniform he's wearing.

[gabriel_tam]

He sets the digital paper face-down on the desk in front of him and raises his eyebrows at Mark.

"Senator, this is Bill Hoffman," Mark explains.

He recognizes the name, even as his assistant continues,

"He was heading up the team on Osiris."

Gabriel stands and moves around the desk to offer his hand to Hoffman.

"Xièxie, Mark. Mr. Hoffman, I'm glad to meet you. Please, have a seat."

[walk_ins]

Hoffman takes the chair with a murmured thanks. As he seats himself, he reaches into his uniform jacket to take out a folder.

"Bringing the final report in person, Senator Tam. Of course, you're already aware that nothing untoward happened, as we would have informed you immediately -- but here's the details of what didn't happen."

[gabriel_tam]

"I greatly appreciate your attention to detail, Mr. Hoffman."

Gabriel resumes his own seat and glances at the folder in the other man's hand, but doesn't reach for it.

"Why don't you summarize that for me, based on your opinion of what's most important?"

It's not exactly a test. Not exactly. Hoffman's security consulting firm had been highly recommended, after all, or Gabriel wouldn't have hired them in the first place.