But this is the first fight I’ve ever been in with real f*****g skin in the game.
Yes, I lost men, but they knew exactly what they’d signed up for. I’ll give them honorable funerals and make sure their families receive distributions of cash for the rest of their lives.
That is my duty to them.
Maxim has my child. And I’m very aware that, despite my superior numbers and the fact that my men are ten times more skilled, he has the only leverage that matters.
The thunder of boots grows louder. The doors burst open.
And then, sauntering down the stairs comes Maxim.
His men form a ring around him. I make it a point to step in front of my soldiers to ensure the contrast between us is obvious.
Cowards hide in the back.
Kings lead from the front.
“Maxim,” I drawl. “Kind of you to join us.”
