He stopped talking, but Franklin kept quiet, waiting.
"We married soon afterwards," Volkov continued. "She was beautiful and intelligent—everything I ever hoped for. She gave birth to two daughters, and we built a happy life together."
He fell silent again, still gazing off into space. Franklin waited patiently, but eventually decided to break the silence.
"Sir?"
"I'm sorry. I'm getting distracted. What was it you wanted to hear about?"
"The incident in Afghanistan? Who ambushed you?"
"The strangers are a group of criminals who attack and rob at alarming rates, increasing their fortune. They work for another unknown organization. Supporting them with funds as well as manpower."
"Do you remember what they looked like?"
"No," Volkov said. "All I can say is that they wore black clothing, had hoods pulled over their heads, and carried weapons. I never even got close enough to see their faces."
