Avery's took a seat, cradling her stomach protectively.
She cast away the mourning mother and became the Warrior General in a brief moment. She had merely used her weapons-pity for her state, certainly. Few men could stomach bringing harm to her. Had Averys not played them all well enough?
Yes, my Archon, I am doomed. Do not go to any lengths to save me. Though, I know you will. Since you are weak.
Darling husband, don't come after me. Hold that throne for me while I'm gone, my dear.
Even Jurislav, who looked upon her a revered daughter. Yes, don't let me fall. I am yours to protect.
Had she finally even touched Malcador's heart, her enemy? What irony...she would be sure to reward him appropriately when she got back. Maybe with a bullet.
There was no honor here, no good or bad-if she could have killed them all to save her and her childs life, she would have. As it was, deception was good enough for all of them...
Her voice took a hard edge.
"What can we offer, indeed. Resources enough for whatever you like-land, estates, titles if you wish them...men and arms, certainly. Vast worlds await my House's control...assuming it isn't destroyed by the time I get back.
We could break the deadlock on this world, finally. You've done well with what you've had, but I'm quite aware of your manpower shortages. Some would prefer this shithole of a planet never be tamed, for their own reasons...I will pay back my time spent here ravaging it's inhabitants. A suitable sacrifice for my child to be.
And, what comes after, hmm? What do you when you're free of this world, Archon? Retire to a quaint home on the river, maybe?"
She leaned forward, smiling sweetly.
"I can arrange that, if you wish. But, if you're like me....then you'll be looking for another battle. It never really ends, does it? The drums and trumpets...they always call you back.
I can promise you, battle will not be lacking.
...And, I don't expect you to believe me-no one does-but I actually didn't order the death of that agent...it was truly beyond my control.
Not to say, I didn't enjoy the trash removal. Would you say you might have felt the same way, Archon?" She inquired innocently.