THE FROZEN DECISION
The Arctic wind howled against the facility's walls, a constant reminder of the isolation that surrounded them. James stood motionless in the Master's chamber, the weight of their offer pressing down on him like the ice that encased the mountain. Partnership. A chance to build something together. The words echoed in his mind, tempting and repulsive in equal measure. "You expect me to believe you've had a change of heart?" James asked, his voice flat. "After everything you've done?" The Master's expression remained serene. "I expect you to consider the possibility that I'm telling the truth. That's all I've ever asked of anyone." David moved to James's side, his voice low. "We can't trust him. He's been manipulating people for decades." "I know." James's eyes never left the Master's fa
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