[color=gray][h1][center][color=ad1207]Marek[/color][/center][/h1] [center][img]https://i.imgur.com/b9JYcsU.png[/img][/center] [color=ad1207]Time:[/color] Late Night [color=ad1207]Location:[/color] Unknown [hr] Marek sat there before a round table with three others. The room itself exuded an air of elegance and opulence, with its high ceilings adorned with intricate moldings and ornate frescoes depicting scenes of grandeur. The walls were embellished with elaborate golden trimmings, and large oil paintings of famous landscapes and portraits hung in gilded frames. The round table, crafted from the finest blackwood, stood as the centerpiece of the room. Its surface was polished to a mirror-like sheen, reflecting the light from the crystal chandelier above them and showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship. Each luxurious chair surrounding the table was upholstered with fine red silk, their curved backs and plush cushions providing utmost comfort and sophistication. As Marek looked around the room, he couldn't help but feel a sense of power and privilege. The combination of the radiant chandelier, lavish furnishings, and overall grandeur created an ambiance befitting of the most prestigious of gatherings. It was clear that no expense had been spared in creating this space, and it served as a testament to the refined taste and discerning eye of its owner. Marek himself emanated a sense of power as he sat there, dressed in a sleek black suit that perfectly complemented the surroundings of the room. His deep red tie, also mirroring the rich hues of the space, added the finishing touch to his outfit. With a confident demeanor, he drew in a gentle breath, savoring the aromatic swirls of smoke from his freshly lit cigar. Marek’s piercing gaze sweeping across their faces. The air was thick with tension, and without exchanging any pleasantries, Marek cut straight to the chase, his voice rough and laden with frustration. [color=ad1207]“How is business going?”[/color] [color=Indianred] “Good. We’ve profited well today.”[/color] William, a towering figure, stepped forward confidently to address Marek's query. He was a young man with a rather pretty face that juxtaposed his personality. Marek crossed his arms and wore a pensive expression. He knew there was more. [color=ad1207]"Tell me the details. What happened today?"[/color] he inquired, his tone demanding a thorough account. Ivan, known for his meticulous nature, took a step forward. [color=rosybrown] "We received a substantial shipment of goods from our overseas partners," [/color] He began, [color=rosybrown]"It arrived precisely as scheduled, without any hiccups. Our contacts at the port ensured a smooth operation. The crates were swiftly loaded onto our trucks, and we transported them to our warehouse." [/color] Marek listened intently, his eyes narrowing as he absorbed the information. He was well aware of the risks involved in transporting such valuable cargo. [color=ad1207]"Any complications during transportation?"[/color] he questioned, [color=ad1207]"Was there any… interference?”[/color] [color=rosybrown] “None whatsoever. We have enough of our people stationed along the route to keep watch and we remained discreet.”[/color] [color=ad1207]"Excellent,"[/color] Marek acknowledged. [color=ad1207]"Now…What did our informants say?”[/color] [color=Indianred] “There are some progressive issues this morning over the party.”[/color] William told him, [color=Indianred] “ Darryn was tortured and may have slipped information. It would be best we get rid of him as he was tiring of his use anyway. His mind had been slipping as of late…The Queen is most interested in speaking with you as she seems to know of your involvement…Seems her son Prince Wulfric has spent some time throughout the day trying to find information about us. He visited the Merchant’s guild to no avail… Anastasia and Callum, however, kept their mouths shut seemingly. We have another enemy in the midst.”[/color] Marek had soundlessly stared at him, and William knew to continue. [color=Indianred] “What we gathered from the archery event is that Count Calbert Damien seems to have another offspring in town that we did not yet know about. His name is Cassius. …Seems to be rather untame. Nothing too unusual occurred at the archery event. There was a pancake event at the park. The girl was still attempting her research, but was warned. Lorenzo caused a stir at this event that you may recall… Another notable event leading up to noon includes the execution of Cameron Nesworth. Lady Mina of the Varian Kingdom fainted in reaction to his execution. Cameron displayed his magic use in his death. At noon, Calbert had a meeting with a young man. It did not go well. A girl, the one who Violet’s death got pinned on, saved him. They then took refuge in the Vikena estate.”[/color] [color=ad1207] “What else.”[/color] Marek asked as the man paused, giving no indication that he planned to comment yet. [color=Indianred] “Violet Damien was attacked by people that aren’t affiliated with us. Her newfound brother Cassius saved her. She was brought home.”[/color] He then met Marek’s eyes. [color=Indianred] “I believe you may be visited by at least two people I have mentioned so far tonight. One being the princess… The other I am certain you can guess.”[/color] [color=ad1207] “Turn the princess away. Tell her to return again another time as I have a planned visit already. I can indeed guess my other visitor… Let him in once he arrives.”[/color] There was an interruption as the doors suddenly swung open and a half-conscious woman was dragged in by her arms, her legs sliding on the floor as she was brought forth. Sobs escaped her now and then. Marek's lips curved into a half-smile, his eyes gleaming with menacing satisfaction. [color=ad1207] “What’s this?”[/color] [color=Indianred] “A woman who tried to get into our cargo. She had a friend inside who she wanted freed. ”[/color] Marek moved forward and knelt in front of her, watching her body shake with sobs. After a moment, he placed a hand on her cheek, pulling her view into his dead stare. [color=ad1207] “Why do you go into places that are not yours? You know trespassing is illegal.”[/color] He took another puff of his cigar, flicking the ash on to her lap. [color=ad1207] “I want you to do something for me, then I promise the life of freedom you sought amongst my cargo.”[/color] Marek gave a promising smile before he reached into his pocket for a small box. Filled with an assortment of fine jet black sand, shells, and a small dark blue candle carved with runes around the wax. [color=ad1207]“Take this and light the candle.”[/color] Marek told her as he handed a lighter and the box to the girl. The girl grabbed the box and scrambled on the ground to set up the candle in its holder and lighting it shortly after. [color=mintcream]“Now what?”[/color]The woman looked up wide-eyed and terrified of the situation she found herself in. Marek pointed at the inscripture on the box. She paused then squinted as she began to read off the box in her hand,[color=mintcream] “... Mitto me.. ad mortis.. ima...”[/color] With that, she began to suddenly start to choke. Fluid filled her lungs. She grasped at her throat as she began gargling water. The room watched as the girl fell to her knees, her suffering loud and clear for all to hear. It was then the water began pouring from her mouth like a weak fountain. The woman fell to the ground blue in the face, her lifeless body frozen in a state of shock and utter terror. [color=rosybrown] “...That was a little dramatic, don’t you think?”[/color] asked Ivan. William shook his head, a smirk playing upon his lips as he commented as well, [color=Indianred] “Now, now Ivan. [i]The show’s always the best part.[/i]”[/color] [color=ad1207]“Have someone clean the trash off the floor.”[/color] Marek stood up and took a seat as his chair. [color=ad1207]“I will sort everything out with the outstanding issues after this meeting. Is that all we had to discuss this evening?”[/color]His eyes scanned the room at those around him. They all nodded. But it was then there was a knock on the door. [/color]