Chapter 168: A Show of Power

Chris didn't break eye contact with Volkov, but his mind was already moving three steps ahead. The Russian President thought he was here to negotiate, to test the waters. But this wasn't a discussion. This was a demonstration.

Without shifting his focus, Chris whispered to Ethan, his voice barely audible.

"Get me twenty armored soldiers in this room. Now."

Ethan nodded subtly, tapping his phone in a casual motion. No loud orders. No unnecessary movements. But within seconds, the command was relayed through encrypted channels.

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The Silent Arrival

The East Room remained eerily quiet, tension crackling like static in the air. Volkov watched Chris with a neutral expression, but his fingers tapped lightly against the polished table—small, calculated movements. He was analyzing every second, every breath.

Then it happened.

The doors opened without a sound.

Twenty fully armored soldiers marched in, their presence imposing. Dressed in cutting-edge Blackwood Tactical Gear, they moved with military precision, forming a solid perimeter around the room. Their rifles were held in ready position, their visors reflecting the overhead lights.

Not a single word was spoken.

Volkov's men stiffened. Mikhailov, the Kremlin strategist, glanced at the soldiers, his expression unreadable. General Orlov's jaw tightened, his instincts kicking in. This wasn't standard protocol. This was a power move.

Volkov, however, remained still. Only his eyes flickered with interest as he slowly leaned back in his chair.

Chris finally spoke, his voice calm but firm.

"You came here thinking this was a negotiation." He gestured to the soldiers. "Let me be clear. You're not in Moscow. You're in my house."

The tension reached its peak.

Ethan, standing beside Chris, scanned the Russian delegation carefully. None of them dared to reach for their weapons—not because they couldn't, but because they knew it would be suicide.

Chris folded his hands together. "Now, Volkov, let's talk. Tell me exactly why you're here."

Volkov's lips curled into a faint smirk. "Impressive. But do you really think intimidation works on me?"

Chris chuckled softly. "It's not intimidation. It's a reminder."

Volkov exhaled, glancing at the soldiers before locking eyes with Chris again. "A reminder of what?"

Chris leaned forward, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper.

"That I decide how this night ends."