A brief silence settled between them as William leaned back in his chair, waiting for the man to continue.
Rowman finally spoke. "In exchange for helping us clear the northern sector, please state the compensation you expect."
William did not answer immediately. His gaze shifted to the sheet of paper floating between them.
"What is this?"
"My skill," Rowman replied evenly. "Contract. It forms a binding agreement between two parties. If either side violates the terms, the skill activates punishment. Severe physical pain. In extreme cases, it can be fatal."
William stared at him for a long moment.
Then he asked flatly, "And you truly believe I would sign that?"
Rowman gave a small shrug. "I assumed you might hesitate to negotiate otherwise."
A wry smile tugged at William's lips. "So your word alone holds no weight, Sir Strategist?"
