Chapter Two: The €4.7 Million Empty Cheque

“But freedom might mean terminating your agency agreement—or selling your debt to another company. Have you seen the release?” Luka said nothing. “Let us see it. One look.” At last, Luka removed a folded page from inside his uniform. When Lin touched it, red words opened along its edge like a wound. [PRICE OF CONTRACT: Milo must sign for Northcastle United. Luka's debt transfers to Cape Consulting, controlled by Marcus Vale. “Freedom” means only that Crown Sports ceases to be creditor.] [HIDDEN TRIGGER: If a bid from any club other than Northcastle is formally accepted, this release automatically expires.] Redfort and Real Madeira were actors. Their withdrawals would make it appear Northcastle had won a contest.