Editing Marco Domici: Hedemora




"Verner, mind if we talk?" Marco had made sure everyone was organized somewhere in Hedemora. The morning was turning out well. Weather wasn't too bad, the troops were out and about, and almost everyone was doing something useful. 

The older man looked at Marco for a long moment, nodded, and moved across the packed snow without effort. Their breath still rolled out as they walked towards a small boarded up office building. Both men kept their weapons clipped off and ready to go. Both made sure to look around while they talked. 

"What can I do for you...Captain?" Verner said. 

"I appreciate you using the rank, Verner." Marco replied as he scanned the rooftops. "However, in this case it's not required. I need your thoughts on a couple things, and in both of them you are the leader and I support your decision."

"Back in Fagersta Patrick was approached. Best we can tell it was two different underworld factions interested in the same man and using the same mediator to deliver two opposing offers. The short story, and you can get more from Patrick, is that he was paid a mil local to do something we were likely to do anyway. Derek will be sending you the data so you can see everything we know. The funny part is that the man gave Patrick the cash up front. Far as we can tell the case is clean; no locators, no explosives, nothing."

"We have a team to deal with actual criminals. From what I understand, this guy is a bad guy. However, the money makes it a political issue. That's up to you and Ingalil. Since she's not here, well, it's up to you."

Marco shrugged and scanned the rooftops again. "Probably don't need a decision on that yet, but before the final briefing. The hostage teams need to know how to proceed."

"The other issue is unity." Marco nodded at the Mountain Men gathered around the convoy. "I have zero interest in altering anyone's political or religious beliefs. Right now, however, some people are pulling themselves out of their teams. If we do that in a low threat environment, what will happen when the stakes are high?"

"My people will perform. You know that." Verner replied. 

"Yeah, I do. Does everyone else? Do they so deeply believe it that they are willing to risk their life? Or will they hold back, unsure if the Mountain Man that is supposed to have their back really does so." Marco took a step towards the convoy. "Something to think about. I'll leave you to it."

"Marco." Verner said, and then stopped. "I'll take care of it."