The feedback arrived faster than expected.
Peterovich's side was the first to relay information. After urgent assessment, the Russian side believed that although the meeting in Elbil posed risks, they were within controllable limits and aligned with current strategic interests, thus agreeing to proceed.
Peterovich was formally appointed as the chief representative of the Russian military advisory group for this meeting and granted decision-making authority on the spot.
Shortly thereafter, the Persian side also conveyed a positive response through covert channels, agreeing for Avanti to attend Elbil as the plenipotentiary representative.
Upon receiving the final confirmation compiled by Song Heping, Simon responded with a terse encrypted message:
"Received. Arrange for specific time and safe house. I will personally go there."
Two days later, on the outskirts of Tehran, Persia, at a certain military airport under lockdown.
