CHAPTER TEN
Merk stood in the forest clearing, one man dead at his feet, and stared back at the seven other thieves, who gaped back. They now had a look of respect—and fear—in their eyes, clearly realizing they had made a mistake in taking him for just another vulnerable traveler.
“I’m tired of killing,” Merk said to them calmly, a smile on his face, “so today is your lucky day. You have one chance to turn and run.”
A long, tense silence fell over them as they all looked to each other, clearly debating what to do.
“That’s our friend you killed,” one seethed.
“Your ex-friend,” Merk corrected. “And if you keep talking, it will be you, too.”
The thief scowled and raised his club.
“There are still seven of us and one of you. Lay that knife down real slow and raise your hands, and maybe
