"And if I refuse?"
Mordred leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with a cold threat. "Then the boy dies. And you'll be declared an enemy of the city, hunted down and executed for treason."
Lucien felt anger boiling inside him, but kept his voice controlled. "So this is your justice? Blackmail and threats?"
"It's pragmatism, Lucien," Estin replied. "You represent a threat to the established order. An order that has kept this city safe for generations."
"Safe?" Lucien let out a bitter laugh. "You call this safe? Hundreds of soldiers die every year defending the walls. Entire families live in poverty while you accumulate wealth. Is that the order you're so desperate to protect, Estin?"
Mordred slammed his fist on the table. "Enough! You're in no position to question us, Lucien. You have a choice to make. Surrender, or the boy dies."
Lucien slowly straightened, his imposing figure dominating the room. "No. I have a counter-offer for you."