I had no desire to parley with those who would abduct a child, but I knew I had to attend the meeting.
I wasn't about to waltz into that meeting unprepared. No way was I going to let some unknown group take control by wielding blackmail and putting a child's life at risk. That crossed a line I wouldn't tolerate. I might have a tough exterior, but harming a child? That's a whole different level of wrong.
As I strode into my mansion, a formidable crew of capable new settlers trailed behind me. "Listen up! Before we dive into the meeting plans, I need every one of you to gear up for battle. I'm heading into that meeting, and I know they'll try to force me to go in solo or with just a couple of people. But I've got a surprise for them—they won't see it coming. I can conceal nearly an entire army in my shadow and within my ring."
