Malrik POV

“What would you do if he surrendered, Malrik?” Vladan asked, his tone steady but edged with intent. We had just stepped into the hotel suite when his words cut through the quiet. I met his gaze, wary of where he was steering the conversation.

“If Cassian chose to relinquish what then? You and I both know that once a man surrenders, taking his life becomes a crime. But that fire in your eyes every time his name surfaces… it’s hatred, Malrik. Pure murder.”

His question ...