"That was option one. Where you cooperate and I'm merciful." She tilted her head slightly. "Option three is where you refuse cooperation and I pursue maximum punishment instead of minimal consequences."
Carver's jaw clenched. "You're insane."
"I'm practical. You tried to destroy my business and harm my customers. I'm responding proportionally." She set the agreement on a nearby table. "Sign, or face the consequences. You have sixty seconds to decide."
"I need time to consult with—"
"Fifty seconds."
"This is absurd! You can't just—"
"Forty seconds."
Carver looked around—at his estate, his guards who wouldn't meet his eyes, the magistrate who held imperial authority he couldn't challenge.
"You'll destroy me if I refuse," he said quietly.
"Yes."
"Even if I fight? Even if I use every resource I have?"
"Especially then. Because dragging it out wastes my time, and I value my time highly." Elara checked her pocket watch. "Twenty seconds."
"Damn you," Carver whispered.
