Max remained near the doors, looking back at Caratacus over his shoulder. The promise had taken him slightly by surprise, though no more than the brief rise of his eyebrows revealed.
He had expected another warning, perhaps even one final attempt to renegotiate the agreement, but instead, Caratacus had placed the future of his entire kingdom upon Max's victory.
He slowly turned around to face him properly.
"I understand what you're doing," Max said, taking one measured step away from the doors.
Caratacus lowered the glass from his lips without drinking. He rested one elbow against the armrest, his expression remaining calm as he observed Max from across the chamber.
"And what exactly am I doing?" Caratacus asked.
