Maybe it was both. Two World Wars and a lifetime of instability while dancing mad through a predatory political climate that almost had him in its teeth (among other things) could do that to you.

Volgin was willing to dominate the conversation, as was his drive to hear himself as relentless as his brutality. He enjoyed hearing himself. He was powerful. It kept him powerful.

A harsh snort.

"Boy, when you finally learn about this world..." A chuckle. "When you learn how to destroy your opposition, you will know the purest victory.

"The only language a wolf can understand is splitting its head open."