Listening.
Waiting to see what I would do.
A seat at the table? No. That’s not just it.
I understood now why Kazimir had come. Why he'd dressed for war. Why he'd stood by the pyre discussing philosophy, history, and the transformation of flesh to ash.
Just like any typical Russian. . .he wants all of Asia.
The Lion had conquered Europe, had sunk his claws into the Middle East, into North Africa, and even the Americas.
But Asia had the Asian Coalition—tons of organized criminal families who had controlled these territories for centuries.
Tradition ran deep here.
Outsiders were not welcome. Not even outsiders with armies, with money, with the kind of power that could level cities.
They didn’t care about his nukes. Kazimir couldn't even buy his way into the Coalition. Couldn't fight his way in.
The Asian families would unite against him before they ever let a foreigner take root in their soil.
But if he had a seat at the table. . .if he had the Dragon vouching for him. . .many doors would instantly open and countless introductions would be made. And soon. . .he would have a true foothold in Asia.
A clear way in.
And once the Lion got his claws into something, he wouldneverlet go.
I nodded. “I understand.”
“Then, take it.” He held the folder higher. “Take your victory.”
“Unfortunately, I cannot.”
All amusement left his face. “Why not?”
"If only the Coalition’s table was long enough." I met his gaze and held it. "But at this time, there is no space for a chair."
Kazimir didn't waver. "Perhaps space could be made."
"Perhaps. But not by me."
“Your father and you made that table that you talk about. Put those chairs around it and invited different nations.”
“You honor me, but that is not what happened. My authority over the Coalition is merely an illusion.”
"I'm offering you your father's location." His voice hardened slightly. "The Fox’s exact position. You could end this war by sunset."
"And in exchange, I hand you the keys to a continent that isn't mine to give."
"It could be yours." He stepped closer, close enough that I could see the firelight dancing in his cruel eyes.
And he didn't stop there.
He took another step.
Then another.
Until his chest was inches from mine, until I had to tilt my chin to hold his gaze.
