"Please, help me beg for mercy and spare my life," Herman pleaded.

Marvin responded coldly, "Given the Crimson Alliance's influence in Gabo Creek, I might have considered showing you mercy, Herman. Unfortunately, you didn't offend me—you offended Mr. Lloyd. Do you honestly think that even the reputation of a Crimson Alliance elder is enough to earn forgiveness in this case?"

Herman's face turned ashen as he laughed bitterly. "You're right… I don't deserve mercy. This is my fate, my terrible