17 Allegiance (1/2)

Placing an envelope on the desk, Allan began, ”Boss asked me to give you this. He said to deal with them in a fitting manner.”

Allen opened the brown envelope, his once haughty expression turned stoic. He realized how naïve he really was. He made up his mind to pledge his allegiance to Carl, that was the deal all along.

”You might not be in the mood but settle the spies before you go to see him.”

The calm in Allen's eyes would make people believe he was an unperturbed young man. However, this was the calm before the storm. He trusted each member and took them as his brothers, yet he was deceived, played by the very people he trusted. He couldn't help but imagine them mocking him behind his back, the scorn in their eyes, he was too docile.

”I understand brother.” He replied firmly.

”Don't be too hard on yourself, next time, be more cautious. Do not be easily accepting of strangers. Take everything with a pinch of salt.” Allan calmly stated.

”Then what about boss?” Allen couldn't help but inquire. He wasn't sure how to tell fake from real people. He needed to be smarter and more discerning of people.

”Firstly, he is our boss, secondly, he has yet to make an unreasonable request. Most likely, following him won't leave us at a disadvantage.”

”I understand brother, I'll listen to you.”

Shortly after, Allen called for a meeting, he called out the spies and in front of the other members, they were bound and tortured. For the nextone week, the wails of the prisoners were heard. Allen successfully used them to set an example. He warned each and every other person directly under him the consequences of betrayal.

After that, he straightaway made an appointment with Carl. Sitting in a private room with the brothers was Carl. He had a reserved air about him.

Whilst Allan was placid, Allen was beyond nervous. He didn't know how to begin his apology. He was nudged by his brother to begin.

”Boss, I apologise for my behavior when we first met. I was wrong and as your subordinate, I ought to abide by your wishes but I was unruly and acted without discretion.” Allen regretfully stated. He looked up to see if Carl was listening. Though there was no sign to show he was paying attention, he actually was.

”From now on, I pledge my allegiance to you, to serve you as you remain my boss.” Allen concluded

Carl nodded his head. ”As long as you understand, it's fine.”