Despite not wanting to entertain Jack's request, it was the only shot Ashton had at tracking down the Cult. However, before that, he wanted some sort of guarantee that Jack knew something worthwhile.
Mazton conveyed Ashton's words to Jack, who gave him a couple of coordinates and dates. Ashton immediately knew what it was and dispatched ONI agents to verify his doubts, and they did.
Both of the coordinates were places with Cult's presence. Unfortunately, even those people were being used by the Cult, like countless others. Not a single cult executive was found in either of those places, but thanks to Jack's help, the Ghosts were able to evade two massive disasters.
Jack had proved his worth, and it was Ashton's turn to do the same. Even though it wasn't going to be easy.
***
Ashton leaned back in his chair, the glow of the holo-table casting a dim light on his face. He looked up at his team, who were gathered around the table, deep in discussion.
