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I need to convince him now, while his rage is still hot and raw. The metal is still being forged. When it’s finally cooled down, whatever form it takes will be forever set.

I open a comms-link, voice only.

“Requesting permission to land.”

“Granted.”

It’s Gerard’s voice that comes back through the comms-link, and it’s as thick with distrust as that of Natali’s father.

I land our Reaver in the courtyard, remembering when I first walked through the huge gates of this towering estate.

I never thought I’d findherinside. I’d never expected any of this.

Now, there are still mercenaries on the walls – humans standing sentry along with the robotic Sentinels.

Gerard is waiting as we get disembark. He smiles at Natali, then turns to look at me with a judgmental glare.

“This time, you won’t have the jump on me, alien.”

I grin at the old warrior. He’s a man who has fought and survived many fights – especially by human standards. He’s earned my respect, even if I’ll never earn his.

“Then it’s a good thing I’m not here to fight you,” I say, and nod in deference.

Gerard snorts. “Good foryou.”

My lips curl at his bold retort.

Then, I demand: “Where is he?”

“In the dining room. Leave your weapons here.”

Natali pipes up. “Is that really necessary?”

Gerard turns to her, and the warmth is gone from his voice.

“Your father barely allowed them to come at all. Don’t argue this, Lady Carani. It won’t end well.”

I’ve already taken the hilt of my Orb-Blade from my belt. I place it on the floor before me. I can feel the gunsights of those human mercenaries training on me as I do so; watched by countless sniper rifles.

My battle-brothers follow suit. Then, unarmed, we follow Gerard into the dining room.

Mr. Carani waits for us there.

He’s looking so thin, he’s practically skeletal – his skin gaunt against the angular bones of his cheeks and jaw.

The old man looks at Natali – but even for her, he has no smile.

Then, he stares at us blankly.

“Why do you come, alien? To gloat?”

I can’t waste time.

“I’m not here to gloat, Carani. I have no desire to make an enemy of you.”

I pause and take a steadying breath.

“In fact, I’m here to give you the futureyouwant. The future you once dreamed of.”