The bullet, then several more in quick succession, slammed into Dammen with unexpected force. The impact upset his balance and forced him backwards. He kept from falling but clutched at his burning shoulder as a throbbing pain enveloped him. Disbelief registered on his handsome face when he pulled his hand away from the scorching wounds in his upper body and saw his bloodied hand and clothes. The deep red of his vital life’s fluid was in stark contrast to the impeccable whiteness of his clothes. Stunned, he stared at his messy hand as his men rushed to his aid. He shook them all away in fury and, righting himself, cursed...