"Big pictures aren't my concern; safety is.
When shit hits the fan, I need these people to duck when I say duck and to run when I say run, without hesitation, and that can only happen if they trust me. Tightening the screws on them over something that might have nothing to do with this mission isn't going to win me that trust."
Albert pinched the bridge of his nose and squeezed his eyes shut.
"You want to dig deeper, be my guest and follow the data trails. But don't do so by jeopardizing this operation.
We've already annoyed Horst, but that managed to get us on his ride to wherever he's headed, keeping us close to him and the data. That helps us.
Upsetting him further might change his mind and then we'll have no control over what happens next.
So for now, I'd suggest you do what you need to do, but keep your head low, your gun close and be ready to move on a moment's notice. We've got more immediate things to worry about.
Update LIC, tell 'em the VIP has a different destination but that we'll be accompanying him. Brief them on the other stuff you found too, if you think it's important. If they agree, I'm sure they'll investigate further and maybe have something to share with you."
Comms @team: "Give me an update, what's your status?"
Albert started walking out but stopped and turned around. "And by the way, this doesn't mean I don't agree with you. Horst is playing games, I'm just not sure against who. If it's us, you know the old addage. Keep your friends close..."
He then continued his way, went up the stairs and knocked on the doctor's door. "Doctor Meier. It's Albert. I'd like to talk with you about some security concerns for this evening.", he said through the door.
The doctor had been spooked enough to worry about Minerva's potential involvement with LIC, but Albert hoped he'd managed to keep himself distanced from her enough for that not to reflect on him too.