The pressure radiating off Hercules in that moment was undeniable, and it only intensified after he asked that final, pointed question.
Aron could feel it, clearly. The man wasn't bluffing.
Seeing how serious Hercules looked now, Aron wasn't so sure he could protect his master if the man suddenly lashed out.
Why didn't you tell me anything beforehand, young sir?! Aron thought in a panic. I have no idea what this Invitation is, but with our connections, we could have contacted anyone. We could have forged one, a perfect forgery, down to the tiniest detail. Any stamp, any signature…
It might have cost you a few million, but with this man, it might very well cost you your entire life.
From the corner of his eye, Max could practically feel what Aron was thinking. He didn't need to guess.
But no, no amount of money could forge this Invitation. Not this one.
And that's why Max did the one thing he knew would disarm the moment.
He smiled.
Calmly, he looked straight at Hercules.
