The First Move
A Killing Game Novel – Book Six

In the shadows of the opulent Mittelstädt estate, secrets simmer, alliances fray, and one man stands between order and chaos.

FBI agent Ives Andrich thought he had lost her forever. But when Allina reappears on his birthday—delivered by the last man he trusts—her return ignites more than emotion. It sets off a chain reaction.

As world delegates arrive and a notorious neo-Nazi resurfaces, Ives must unite forces from within the Bureau and beyond. But hidden truths about Allina’s bloodline threaten to fracture their fragile reunion.

Enemies grow bold. Loyalties are tested. And von Schäfer, cloaked in shadows, prepares for the final strike.

In a deadly showdown where love meets vengeance, will Ives be able to stop the rise of a legacy built on hate?

The game isn’t over. The first move decides everything.
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Excerpt: Chapter Thirteen

Schumann and Eichel, with their eyes fixed on Ives at the balcony window, shared a moment of silent amusement. Schumann’s lips curled into a knowing smile, a hint of his thoughts slipping through. Eichel, ever observant, couldn’t help but smirk. “Nothing gets past Herr Andrich, does it?” he quipped.

“Not usually.” He chuckled again. “Even if he doesn’t see it, he senses it.”

As they walked toward the main house, Eichel stated, “You and he go back a long way.”

“Yes. I’ve had the pleasure of observing his transformation into the man this group of delegates lured here.” He sighed, and with touch of nostalgia in his voice, he added, “What a purpose he serves.”

“Have you reported Herr Andrich’s arrival to Interpol?”

“They don’t need to know. He doesn’t work for them. They can take the long way to find out, if necessary. Besides, our concern isn’t Ives; it’s the other one.” He meant von Schäfer.

“It is better we took hold of the delegation before von Schäfer and Langendorf could push their influence any further.”
Schumann glanced at Eichel, something in his tone making him pause.

Noticing Schumann’s expression, Eichel asked, “What?”

Looking ahead, Schumann answered, “You mention von Schäfer before the General.”

Eichel chuckled. “He is the greater source of contention and the most obvious instigator. He longs for full control, and he’ll make his move for it sooner rather than later.” His voice carried a mix of wit and concern, a testament to the complex emotions and motives at play.

“Do you distrust Langendorf’s actions along with von Schäfer?”

Eichel laughed softly. “They’re like a husband and wife, both having an affair, but neither willing to confront the other for fear of exposing their indiscretions. So, they bide their time, waiting for the other to make the first move.” His voice was tinged with amusement and cynicism.

Schumann laughed aloud. “Very well put. Let’s hope they catch each other in their infidelity and are too preoccupied to see the shift in the delegation that Ives has brought about.”

Eichel reached for the courtyard door. Holding it open, he waited for Schumann to step through. “Let’s hope you’re right about that.”
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Can Ives outmaneuver von Schäfer before the next move becomes the last?