Page 73 of Warlord’s Empire

“Allow me to introduce you,” Radik said easily, taking Saskia’s hand so Saagan would be completely clear of her position in Radik’s life. “Saskia Koba, I would like you to meet Deputy Darion Saagan, the frontrunning candidate in the next federal election.”

Saagan shifted painfully. “Apologies for my bluntness, General, but why are you here?” He didn’t look pleased to see Radik. His body language and expression were closed off but not frightened.

“No need to apologize for plain language,” Radik assured him. “It’s my preference.” He nodded at the bed. “You were recently injured in an attack meant to take your life. Though the perpetrators were not caught, it can be assumed they are agents of the current administration.”

“Yes, I was shot five times.” He waved his hand at the bandages covering his upper body. His gaze was sharp on Radik’s face. “And I prefer not to speculate on the source of my attack until the correct authorities have identified the suspects.”

“Ah, a very diplomatic and fair response,” Radik said approvingly. “Do you intend to continue your campaign?”

“Of course,” he said sharply. “This… episode has shown that I am close to achieving my goals, otherwise I would not be a danger to anyone. I refuse to stop now. They will have to be more successful in their attacks if they wish to stop me.”

Radik nodded, satisfied with Saagan’s answer. “This is what I wished to hear.”

“You still haven’t explained why you’ve come to see me. It’s my understanding that you’ve retired from…” He left the sentence hanging before finishing with, “What could you possibly want from me?”

“I’m here to offer my protection for the duration of your campaign. I will handle your security until such a day comes as you no longer need it, or perhaps, will have the protection of the presidential palace.”

Saagan looked surprised. “Why would you offer such a service? I can’t pay the exorbitant prices you charge your clients.”

“I have no need of money, especially yours.”

Radik felt Saskia’s curious gaze on him, though he didn’t look at her. He wanted her involved, wanted her to see him using his vast wealth and power for the better good, but this wasn’t an easy meeting for him. He was much more used to threats, blackmail, and violence. Here he must woo this potential client with diplomacy.

That was more in keeping with Saskia’s personality, but he wanted her to see he was capable of it. Worthy of her good and fair heart.

“If you have no need of money, then what do you want from me?” Saagan asked suspiciously.

“Only that which you have already promised.” Radik held Saagan’s gaze, showing him a little of the dark soul within, the consequences of going against Radik. “I want you to follow through on your campaign platforms. You have promised roads and bridges leading to many of the remote communities in this region. You have also promised new and improved wells, schools, and renewed investment in agriculture. You’ve promised much, same as your predecessors.”

“They did not deliver on any of their promises,” Saagan said bitterly. “They are cheats and thieves who take without giving, driving their constituents into the most abject poverty.”

“But you’ll be different?” Radik asked.

“Yes!” Saagan responded with fire, wincing and placing a hand over his chest. “I will clean the corruption and prosecute the perpetrators. I will ensure the people’s votes count the way they should, give every person a voice, no matter their position.”

“I believe you,” Radik said with satisfaction. “This is why I’m here. I want to help.”

“You do? Why?” Saagan’s tone was suspicious. “What interest do you have in this area?” Then, as if realizing who he was talking to, added, “With respect, General.”

“Your caution serves you well, and had we met in the past, might even be well placed, but in this instance, I am here only to serve you and your campaign.” He weighed his words carefully, before saying, “Throughout my career I have seen much displacement, refugees fleeing war, families torn apart. I’ve listened to politicians lie to gain power and then serve only their own greed, never the people. I have studied you, watched you as you’ve climbed the ladder of power. You have remained steady and faithful to your cause.”

Saskia’s hand tightened around his and he felt pride knowing she approved.

“I… I don’t know…. “ Saagan shook his head. “While I appreciate your assessment of me, how do I trust you with this offer? I’ve heard of you, I know you were part of those wars that displaced citizens.”

Radik acknowledged his past with a nod. “Call it atonement then. I’m finding a new path, and I want to begin with you.” He looked at Saskia. Her face was a picture of curiosity, pride and excitement. Perhaps she had divined what was coming next. “If it helps you agree to my proposal, then you should know I will not be your point of contact. If she will agree, then I would choose Ms. Koba as your liaison. She has a background in diplomacy and linguistics and has spent the past year working closely with the Prime Minister’s office in the Czech Republic. She comes with excellent references and I can assure you, she has had nothing to do with my past business dealings.”

A slow smile spread across Saskia’s face.

“So what exactly are you proposing?” Saagan’s tone shifted to curious as his gaze moved to Saskia.

Radik answered, “A highly trained security detail that will be yours until election, and after, if you win and choose to keep them. All venues will be rendered safe before your arrival. Your home, family, office and staff will be secured. No attacker will get near you. My people have a perfect protection record. No client has been injured or killed under our watch.”

Saagan nodded and kept nodding, his thoughts clearly flying. “And you will do this for me only on my word that I will uphold my campaign promises?”

“Not quite your word. There will be a contract drawn up that outlines my expectations. If you sign it, then yes, the security detail will be yours.” He gestured toward the door. “As far as I can tell, the only security you possess at present is a harried-looking aide who seems to be in desperate need of a long vacation.”

Saagan laughed, relaxing for the first time since Radik and Saskia had entered the room. “Lilia is one of the few who didn’t quit my team after I was shot. She more than deserves a vacation.” He leaned his head back into the pillows behind him, seeming to think before saying, “Before you came, I thought it was likely I would eventually be killed. I don’t want to leave my campaign, don’t want to let down the people who have supported me, but neither do I want to die. You must be a godsend, coming to answer my prayers.”