Page 32 of Mercy

"It's just... ever since the attack things are complicated, and I need time to figure it out," I finish lamely, hating how inadequate the explanation sounds.

CHAPTER SIX

Tor

The low rumble of voices seeps through the heavy wooden door ofkirkja,drawing me closer like a moth to flame.

I press my ear against the intricately carved surface, the Norse runes beneath my palm a stark reminder of our heritage.

My father's voice, deep and commanding, rises above the rest.

"The Patriot," he says, the name dripping with venom. "That's what this bastard calls himself these days!"

My heart rate quickens.

I know I shouldn't be eavesdropping, but the tension in Dad's voice is impossible to ignore.

The memory of our encounter in the city flashes through my mind—the taco stand owner's terrified face, the sickening crunch of bone as Dad's fist connected with one of the Patriot's men.

"He sent a message back," Dad continues. "Says we've made a grave mistake interfering with his business."

A chorus of angry mutters follows his words.

I can picture the scene inside.

The full patch members and officers gathered around the table Magnus crafted, their faces etched with a mixture of concern and rage.

"What exactly did the message say, Runes?" It's Fenrir’s gravelly voice, our VP always quick to get to the heart of the matter.

There's a pause, and I hold my breath, straining to hear.

"He said, and I quote, 'You've poked the bear, old man. Prepare for the consequences.'"

The silence that follows is deafening.

My mind races, piecing everything together.

This Patriot, whoever he is, isn't backing down, and neither will we.

"Fuck that noise." Kraken’s voice breaks the silence. "We've dealt with worse than some wannabe with delusions of grandeur."

A few grunts of agreement follow, but I can sense the underlying current of unease.

We may have survived the cartel, but that victory has come at a steep price.

"We're not looking for a war," Dad says, his tone measured but firm. "But we won't stand by and let this piece of shit terrorize our city. Not after everything we've been through."

I shift my weight, wincing as the floorboard beneath me creaks.

The voices inside fall silent, and I freeze, heart pounding.

After a moment, Dad resumes speaking, his voice lowered.

I lean in closer, straining to make out the words.

"...keep eyes and ears open. Anything suspicious, you report back immediately. We need to know what we're dealing with before we make a move."

The scraping of chairs signals the end of the meeting.

---