The Underground Deal II

He stares at me as if looking for my soul, but instead of responding to me right away, he leaves me speechless. Similar to how Auster had earlier in the day, I felt exposed in front of them even though I wasn't.

I give him the same look he has on me rather than cowering my way out. He releases me first with a deep sigh, "Executioner, huh?” And then we continue to stare into each other's eyes.

“Funny how you act like such a tough young lady when you can't even handle the threats around you.”

“Even though you are one of them, I am already negotiating a deal with you.”

“What will I receive if I carry out your plans, then?

“I'll follow your instructions, with one exception, though.”

“One thing, right?”

“I am now your brother's friend, so I can't follow your advice to avoid him.”

He says, "Friend, such a poor term to utter," and then chuckles, as if I had just said something amusing to him.

“I guess there's something about you that intrigues me, but I'm not asking that. Fine… as long as yo