Ascension. Saksaywaman. Shard of eternity

– May I join your game, gentlemen? – Matthew turned to the contestants with a quick glance around.

Everyone at the table, including the croupier, looked at the stranger sternly.

– What's wrong with an empty seat? – suddenly the elderly gentleman turned to the players. – I'm sure, young man, that you will make us good company. I think there is no reason to object.

As everyone else was silent, Matthew sat down in a vacant seat and exchanged five hundred dollars for chips from the dealer.

– That's all I can afford today, – he declared to the players. – If I lose, I won't buy more.

– We'll remember your promise, – the thin man gave him an unfriendly look.

That look. Cold, piercing, sticky. It was as if it cut right through him, penetrating him. Anyone else would have been unable to bear that piercing stare, but not Matthew. A pleasant chill ran down his back. He knew the feeling well, and he liked it. It appeared in moments of danger, and made him mobilize unknown forces, prompting him to crazy actions that more than once saved his life and dignity. He looked at his opponent with calm confidence, and the latter, fidgeting in his chair, was forced to say something not to betray his confusion:

– Well, we'll be glad to test your fortune. My last name is Cheryshev. Perhaps you've ever heard of me?

– I haven't, Mr. Cheryshev, – quietly shook his head Matthew. – I understand that I'm putting myself at a disadvantage, but still, like I said, I won't buy any more. I simply need to pass the time, and I hope that you will kindly help me with that.

– How may I address you? – the croupier asked the new player.

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