Factor Krenz

Krenz has a pleasant smile and the habit of letting other people finish a sentence before he tells them what it will cost. He brokered the agreement that set the Combine’s last border war in motion, and his commission survived every subsequent attempt to assign blame.

He maintains that the contract was clear. His critics agree about that much: its clauses were clear enough to reward him whether the parties settled their dispute or chose to fight. Krenz now commands Counterparty, where he has room to protect his interests without relying entirely on the goodwill of former clients.

He collects favors more carefully than trophies. A rival may find him useful as an intermediary, provided they read every line and understand who stands to gain from delay. Krenz does not need everyone to like him. He needs them to keep believing that the next deal might be worth making.