The conference room had descended into uneasy silence.
Twenty minutes since Silva left with Dr. Varen. Twenty minutes of waiting, delegations exchanging glances, security personnel stationed at doors with no orders.
The Chinese delegation head checked his watch for the third time.
"Where is the Secretary-General?"
The question cut through the quiet. Polite. Pointed.
No answer came.
The American military attaché stood. "And Dr. Varen? We were promised access to his research. Independent verification before..."
"Gentlemen." A UN security officer appeared at the entrance. Young. Nervous. "Secretary-General Silva has been detained by urgent matters. He asks for your patience."
"Where is Dr. Varen?" The Russian representative's voice carried no warmth. "We demand to see him immediately."
"Dr. Varen is in protective custody. For his own safety." The guard gestured vaguely toward where the old man had died. "No visitors permitted."
Silence.
Then understanding.
