"Michael." Novosty's voice was trembling. "This cannot be allowed to happen."
"I agree. We've definitely got a situation here."
He glanced around to see the four Mino-gumi kobun poised in the doorway, all with H&K automatics now out of their briefcases. Kenji Nogami was standing behind them, his eyes defeated.
Novosty still looked stunned. The range of options was rapidly narrowing to none.
Vera indicated his Ruger. "You would be wise to put that away. Now."
"If they take these securities, my life's not worth a kopeck." Novosty seemed to be thinking out loud. "What does it matter."
It wasn't a question. It was a statement.
Remembering it all later, Vance could barely recall the precise sequence of events. He did remember shoving Eva back against the wall as the fireworks began.
Novosty's first round caught the lead Mino-gumi kobun squarely between the eyes. As he pitched backward, arms flailing, he tumbled against the others, giving Novosty time to fire again. With deadly accuracy he caught another in the chest.
Kenji Nogami had already thrown himself on the thick hallway carpet, safely avoiding the fusillade. The Russian bankers, too, had all hit the floor, along with the MNB guards and the two couriers.