The Master-Planner

Any rational man in an ordinary situation would see the lacuna in this wager. It was purely material asymmetry, as Euri would stand to lose only 4102 credits, whereas Vernon could very well lose over 40,000 credits alongside incurring the wrath of a loan shark.

But on his way back, Euri had carefully picked out the most evident characteristics in Vernon's behavior.

The instinct to make gambles, to take unwarranted risks while blinded by momentary impulses, and the quickness with which he resorted to desperate behaviour—all of this had conformed to the plan Euri was offering him.

He'd not refuse. He could not, in fact, refuse.

He could see Vernon weigh the pros and cons in his mind, unwillingness flashing in his eyes as he comprehended his disadvantage. But there was no better position he could create for himself with his own hands.