137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtepElxbOOSCHAPTER II
- THERON’S DEMANDS -
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJcQafCXSa1
The journey back to Ana’s cottage is a blur of churning thoughts. The cheerful village no longer offers solace.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRG9JHCPCwF
Each familiar landmark merely marks another step in Metro’s confused retreat. He guides Sally, the heavy oak logs rattling in the cart behind them.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfkwJKxpWDz
Ana is in her garden, her frail form bent over the trampled cabbage patches; her brow scrunched in concentration. She looks up as Sally snorts softly, pulling the cart to a halt. Her gaze immediately settles on Metro’s aura, a look of concern crossing her gentle features.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgm1Xwg03Y8
Ana:(gently)
“Metro, you're moving like a storm's guiding your thoughts.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPVtTPFxS3i
Metro exhales sharply; frustration finally breaks through.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFan8fu2HPy
Metro:
“I met Theron. I lost the quarter bloom after talking to Veronica. Theron wants to negotiate a business deal now after the fact. I’m not sure if I trust him. And now he wants the Q when we meet, who knows when that will be.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNL7qP0NX2O
Metro’s words bleed with frustration into every sentence.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtt5JeYYPQ9
Ana listens in silence.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBsfQcsKXBr
Her calm energy waits; she watches, calmly.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ00eQiplkJH
A dull thud lands.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiipOoAa1fL
Ana:(voice steady, warm)
"-you didn't lose everything entirely."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvliqT7Pjpi
Her eyes study him carefully, cutting cleanly through lingering frustration.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFCzCFkjwLD
Metro pauses, turning slightly towards her.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr8C7pnHsVZ
Ana:(thoughtful)
"I have kept a reserve of careful cultivation for special moments like this."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡepyXwXpe7T
Her sight drifts barely towards the floorboards of the cottage.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5hnA8Kqd9F
"This qualifies."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTT8GN8BFsn
She moves across the room and kneels beside one section of the worn wooden floor, with ease she lifts the loose board that reveals a compartment underneath. From within, she retrieves a leather pouch-small, but an appropriate weight pouch.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8290HUuVvb
Ana rises and sets the pouch on the table. Metro studies the pouch with light intensity. Her gaze returns to Metro.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRCMRRpwrFg
Ana:
"Run to Paul... he's a good friend. He'll understand the situation and will most likely return the leaf you gave him. With that, you’ll have the fourth that Theron expects."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBqkU6QjCMe
The cottage grows quiet again, the faint crackle of the hearth filling the pauses.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfaaUaRi0Lo
Ana: (soft - slightly)
“Pay attention, the doors will be opened for you.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9g7MTJbkQm
Metro (takes a breath)
“Thank you. I’ll head to Paul’s before sundown.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV2823f0Xr0
With a renewed sense of purpose, Metro secures the precious cargo.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiVm7jRZpby
The sun has begun a slow descent, painting the village with rays of orange and white. The sounds of the people fade behind him as he urges Sally back towards the forest, pushing the cart rattling softly along the trail now lighter without its wooden cargo.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW0TPPk3AaC
The temperate forest can be seen as they close away from the clearing. Green and brown leaves stir overhead. The broad path becomes narrow, winding through tall oak trees.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuhYBhx4Xew
Each steady stride Sally takes carries the weight of Metro’s thoughts.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQXfhy5T98X
The looming meeting with the king presses heavily on his mind. The bloom he gave his word on. Losing the stash and the intimate collapse of his future: if he fails to meet expectations.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfU0AZEBCLo
Metro presses forward hoping to reach Paul before the end of daylight. He approaches, seeing a ribbon of woodsmoke circle from the chimney, heightening the scent of soil and pine.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlrFNxoEKhG
Paul is still at his workbench when Sally trots into the clearing, the empty cart rolling behind her. He looks up at the sound, has sharp eyes, narrow, before a grin pulls the corner of his mouth.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAI3ef89xBh
Paul: (calls out)
"Back so soon?"
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQk7DRXCVb7
(sets down half-carved oak block)
“Did Lord Long Face give you trouble about the oak you delivered last week?”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3wu1cY16Tb
(wipes his hands on a scrap cloth)
“Or did you come for an evening apple cide?”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNoeDpBaqi5
Metro:(unhitches cart)
“Neither.”
The seriousness in his tone pulls Paul's attention fully. Metro makes gestures towards the empty cart.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBMmpuT2wZx
“The woods delivered.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7ioiuvC21
(exhales)
“I set up a meeting with Theron about ‘The Flower.’ and things went south.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjNWGc69sAC
He reaches in his pack and pulls out three small pouches.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJhMpEp6saw
“I told him I would have a fourth of bloom but lost the quarter somehow.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbj4g7JSYMb
Paul's expression hardens
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt4jqpQ6tcJ
Metro:(head slightly slump)
“Ana’s been a saving grace.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc1AicPwxSV
(A beat)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs08HCG7m4M
… she's lent me her most powerful stash.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡInyuA6Wb8h
(places 3 sacs on table)
“I have three zips here… but it is not enough.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRNlmdoaCrE
The words hang in the quiet clearing.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SPjd6bIRA
“I have to ask for the zip back… if you’ll spare it.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnG7FY6i0Sa
“It’s not life or death, but my reputation with the nobles-- I’ll probably never open a business, like I dreamed of.’
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHGRN624tRk
(Beat.)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFkWw2iRK5a
“He wants to meet with me once again, soon, with a full pouch in hand.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt3jmQvovAh
Paul looks slightly disappointed and disgusted.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTeNqCeIR0L
Metro looks down at the ground, a heavy pressure weighing; his hands rest on his hips as he slowly kicks rocks with the toe of his boot. A soft clatter against the dirt in the clearing.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡew6UaAWR0i
Paul’s wise eyes soften as Metro confesses his predicament; the sadness more clear in the fading light. He listens carefully, saying nothing at first.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJgKJbhuD1
Paul:(thoughtful)
“You lost it… huh.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEboRbXE5LL
“That’s a dangerous game you’re playing with the Council. That man collects debts with interest and not always coins.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWkVA4vN8nz
He turns away, walking to a small hidden nook built into the wall of the workshop. Reaching inside Paul retrieves a leather wrapped pouch before returning. .”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡinMVQywMB9
“That’s a dangerous game you’re playing with the Council. That man collects debts with interest and not always coin.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKvZoRwpgoQ
“Here.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJIpodQMVzC
Metro looks down as Paul places it into his hands.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡabo8jFSlsW
“It's yours. Take it.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5GJaESgYzz
(a moment)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDy3nxB49x8
‘Your integrity is worth more than any plant, no matter how potent.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaM5fcHURYh
Paul studies him for another moment.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeDeGbxGwjG
“As for dealing with men like Theron, they thrive on desperation, show them only what they need to see. Keep your cards close. You have a good heart, Metro, and a keen mind. Trust that.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNZtjEvMwuq
Paul (pausing, gentle smile now)
And anyway...
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYd57pmPAYw
(He casually brushes saw dust from hands)
“If they come here, looking for the bud, I’ll tell them I know a farmer down the street—who grows the good stuff!”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs5shopPpaC
Paul’s eyes glisten in the dimming light; a mischievous sneer crosses his face.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ516iSjutBx
Metro lets out a soft laugh, smirking, clearing his throat.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaRpaQGr1pV
Paul continues (voice a little lower)
“Remember your inner strength. The weight of those who truly stand by you, you don’t need much else.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTgju0SMQtD
Metro nods slowly, grasping the porch firmly.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXPQSGiZwGB
“I’ll be back soon. To let you know everything.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3IiTWfCiK2
Paul gives Metro a small nod in return.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFK9ds19faB
Metro:(waves)
“Farewell.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr2AK6qOkiQ
Paul:
"Be safe!”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1nvnAng44X
VILLAGE OUTSKIRTS FOREST TRAIL
-NIGHT-
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCw53yYoNUD
Leading Sally back toward the forest path, the twilight deepens around him. The woods are quieter now; the sky can be seen through the stretch of black canopy branches from below. The stars are sparkling in a numerous host above Metro as he rides home to his cottage.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtRphDFyfh
Shadows gather between tree trunks; a handful of hosts--tall thin reapers crowding the forest's edge like a haunting audience.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8TgB1CNub2
They stand there, watching.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLtOMjfz2FR
The cold pressure clamps down on Metro’s ribs. He can’t see them clearly, but he feels them. Like the night itself has turned its attention on him.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29hIq0OVSC
His skin prickles.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMrAym5nnSr
His breath shortens.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLdLOHzxR1G
Sally’s legs tremble—she’s not just scared; she’s paralyzed.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFnBTy5iqDO
Metro leans forward.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwA5aefQ0yi
“Something doesn’t feel right, Sal.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCcpKWiRPqE
The shadows seem to stretch, lengthening across the ground, reaching without moving.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7eWMdaIfGu
The air is thickened by the silence of screams.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLJuwYLQppn
Metro’s heart beats with mixed panic and fear.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDr4vETQNR1
He grips the reins.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFRYchHWWv4
“C’mon girl – LET’S GO!”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4kteywekKp
Sally explodes forward, breaking free of the bind of whatever previously held her. They tear down the trail, hooves hammering the dirt.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuL482IOFvY
(Instincts geared → Flight Mode)
Metro feels the evil angels rushing alongside the tree's lines slipping past him. Keeping pace through the trees like streaks of deeper darkness. He tries his hardest not to look back, a terrified expression on his face. The pressure is still growing, whispering at the edge of his mind.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpnDOnUda2H
Sally runs harder.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGvZDAu7zjD
Branches whip past them.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcvNuNeCuws
The forest blurs.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0MME6twp50
The night seems to lean around them, closing the distance, trying to swallow their light.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qwdL1TOBu
Metro’s frame shakes.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ74VsLqmKNW
Metro:(shouting, panicking.)
“Go Sally! GO!”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLp6ZBHZjOM
The shadows can almost be heard in multitude, pressing closer, crowding the trail behind him. The faster Sally runs, the more the thinned vision unwraps and bends.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbQVT8U3SCS
– But then – A faint glow appears ahead.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPsrAhrhPkC
A small home.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡikGVpzrQuF
Lanterns burn at the end of a dark tunnel; its flames begin to expand like a holy light.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc87pnQLfF6
Metro’s humble cottage breaks through the trees like a lifeline. The moment comes into view; the pressure begins to loosen. The darkness thins, evaporating, the weight lifts.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDT2JGJVOGs
Sally slows only when reaching the clearing, chest heaving, sides trembling.
Metro turns back towards the woods, shaken.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoOGYQIUM0
The forest is still again.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgUHU2Gbi46
Empty.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsyHCdH68TN
Quiet.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmqWAYq2Ex
Eerie.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMJJAkSwAP
The feeling doesn’t vanish completely – it lingers very softly, like something evil spectating from a distance.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm08PA28TPG
Scene fades black –
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPzAwQMweKQ
-METROs COTTAGE- MORNING
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPat4pvIMMq
The cottage is cold and still when he wakes in his bed – gathering himself to the edge of his mat, his head drops, exhausted from yesterday's previous traumas. The weariness of a dark uncertainty settles heavy into his bones.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJ069NqTAv
Metro pulls a strip of beef jerky from a small pouch and slowly chews it with hollow eyes. He throws himself backwards on the straw mat, staring at the wooden ceiling above.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBde0fXuNQS
– OUTSIDE VILLAGE CENTER WELL–
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg7UP44R4Vz
Metro unhitches Sally from her post. They walk together calmly into the village market, unleashed, side by side.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsVaCvgZnQM
They head straight for the communal oven, he watches the sky's dawn, now holding her leash, listening to her comforting footsteps. The scent of fresh bread in the air also eases his mind.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6XRzNOz2ZQ
A quiet nod to the baker and a few copper coins are laid on the counter.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIyTYMPI8Of
Continuing their journey through the village square with a warm, flaky, buttery crescent in hand. He chows down rather quickly, savoring the burst of flavors as the town's energy comes to life around him.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXgam78jwm
Arriving at — ANA’S COTTAGE —
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjTggQslVV7
Metro quickly ties Sally to the front post near the cabbage. She drops her head to graze grass, while he attends to work. The rhythmic thud of the axe against the oak stakes and the sharp clanging of hammer against metal fill the air.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCmTnwDgjKq
Ana is already moving carefully through rows, surveying what she can from the disturbed patches of her garden. The soft murmurs drift between the plants, gentle and mellow.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmYHInXPfz9
Metro works steadily driving each stake deep into the earth. One by one they form a protective boundary around the fragile rows.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnZvS1GHCvD
The morning stretches on; the sound of iron striking wood echoes softly through the yard. Each post sinks firmly into the soil, feeling like a small victory against whatever unseen force had plagued the garden.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYGMmvsFbBq
When the final stake is driven into place, a satisfying last hit echoes into the bright blue sky.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtv0nqy7axV
Weariness settles into Metro’s muscles. He pauses, catching breath, feeling the quiet satisfaction and strength that comes from an honest day’s labor.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡApbJISwi3a
Before long, a comforting aroma of simple, hearty stew drifts from Ana’s cottage. Metro steps inside and sits at the wooden table, grateful for the warm food. He begins eating.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyEjnjTXANi
He’s only halfway through his meal when a sudden shadow stretches across the doorway.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeLOVLfAS0I
A stern-faced guard stands framed in the entrance. His broad frame blocks the sunlight behind him. One hand rest firmly on the hilt of his sword, clanking softly with each movement. His face is hard as granite; his stare fixed on Metro.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd2sI9kTxWq
Kings Guard:
“You are required to present yourself before Lord Theron at his lodge immediately.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKm1wwEeFnE
His hand remains on the sword's hilt.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡji3guCxTUc
Ana shrinks slightly in her seat, her eyes wide with apprehension. Across the table, Metro’s half-eaten stew suddenly loses its appeal. He swallows the last bite, the warmth turning into a sudden, unsettling lump in his throat.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiVtGomwOmP
He casts a quick, reassuring glance at Ana, whose worried eyes follow his every move. Without a word, he rises from the table.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQqKW2rNmjP
The guard grips nod and turns, leading the way out of the cottage.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjowScFjZj1
The forest path — so familiar and comforting moments ago — now feels like a somber corridor.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNSpO8EWGJ7
The guard’s heavy boots crunch on the fallen leaves, at a steady, relentless pace.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQGzmHsPbRQ
Metro falls in step behind him, his mind racing, trying to anticipate Theron’s intentions. The air is thick with Metro’s unspoken thoughts — the wind and world calls, doing little to break the apprehensiveness of the journey.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyG1DDxlApR
The King’s Guard maintains pace, his broad back a rigid wall before Metro. They pass through the familiar lanes of the village, the morning activity now in full swing, but the villagers seem to avert their gazes, subservient nods as the First Guard passes.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66GehqLbkK
Soon the humble cottages give way to more substantial homes, and then, the grand timber lodge rises before him; it's dark wood placed monstrously. Metal ores dominate the walls, and fine stones, the street. A clear sign of wealth and power. Far grander than any other building in the village.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBL2bGmo1hF
KINGS LODGES ENTRANCE-
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ys5fXdI7U
Two more guards, equally stoic, stand at attention by thick doors, which swing open at the approaching footsteps.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNphJsmOHSR
Metro glides through the grand hall; its vaulted ceiling soaring high above, tapestries depict ancient wars adorning the walls, and the scent of polished wood and incense linger in the air. They climb steps and flickering fire lanterns are passed by.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiSRBssLfAi
The guard steps before a heavy door signaling to enter with a gloved fist. A distant voice bids them to enter.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡASLpsrYxnx
Metro stands and steps into the chamber, the threshold a silent prayer echoing in his heart. As he crosses, the threshold steady. There is a faint white glow gathers around his head, sharp and noticeable in the dim, spacious room.
At the far end, King Theron is hunched over a massive dark oakwood desk, quill scratching steadily across thin parchment. The shift in light makes him glance up, his eyes narrow slightly as the glow outlines Metro's face.
Near the tall window, Veronica stands silently, the daylight behind her framing her figure.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFc8FWV0XuO
A brief hint of surprise crosses her features before her expression settles again. Her eyes connect with his only for a brief moment .
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0kAvI5ivsn
Metro walks forward steadily. His boots echo softly across the chamber’s floor until he stops several paces from the desk.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTBmudvSYdK
With calm deliberation he slips the strap from his shoulder and sets the bag down beside him on the stone floor.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcV09azj7nM
Even through the cloth of the bag, the faint shimmer of its contents seem to catch the light around Metro’s head, a glowing reflection clearly visible.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWh50L8Tu8T
Theron’s gaze moves from Metro’s face to the bag resting on the ground. Slowly, he sets his quill aside. His fingers lace together atop the desk, his knuckles tighten with a calculated look in his eyes.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC6Mi5RSZgE
Silence fills the chamber for a moment.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ31Nkz8VW5n
Then Theron leans back in his chair, studying Metro carefully.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwkqwKss7ps
Theron:(nods slowly)
“Welcome.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDcl5KOFAX
Metro remains steadfast, his posture calm and unmoved, his eyes fixed squarely on the King.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPa1yb2zwN2
He calmly and ever so slightly nods his head.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqcF3LdatU
The gleam in his eyes does not waver.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6BavTBbbtZ
Theron studies him carefully, his eyes grow colder, more calculating. Metro’s silence lingers in the room longer than he likes. It presses against the king's authority, subtle but unmistakable.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0flBtsCvWU
Theron leans back in his leather chair, gaze unmoved, locked.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8lT2ySL9vj
Across the chamber, Veronica stands near the window, silent, her eyes tracing two tectonic plates grinding against each other.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh4XpH5KpsM
The quiet stretches, thick with anticipation.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ZOP1UUI54
Theron:(waves his hand dismissively)
“Very well! Let us dispense with the pleasantries.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeo8lAvidyf
His stare dips briefly towards the bag on the floor before returning to Metro.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMQ0lILggk
Theron:
“Your botanical talents are considerable, and this leaf of yours...”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7EeiSBgAOJ
(flicks his wrist towards backpack)
“is special in all its qualities.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQuLDFpaPU4
(leans forward)
“I have interests that require a consistent, reliable supply of such unique resources.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAfdLfwdu6Z
(A brief pause.)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJs1IjXsUwZ
“I require you to cultivate this magic leaf for me exclusively."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6SayiR77rX
His fingers tap against the desk as a faint smile forms.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqKpasi337E
“A partnership. A very lucrative one for you, I assure you.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTF66Djezq
(beat)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡooIZY1xX4u
“im going to need forty thousand quarter-blooms every month consistently without fail.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeVqPm4PfPV
The chamber grows still. Veronica's eyes shift intensely, sensing the gravity of the number.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2h9lUQiXEi
He stands in silence for a moment, measuring Metro’s reaction. He studies him the way a merchant studies a rare commodity—searching for cracks, hesitation, anything.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQ2f0KiTAV
“Think of what a steady supply could command in certain circles. The influence it could buy. The leverage it could secure.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOlgKqmt0HH
His voice smooths into something almost persuasive, though the calculation beneath it never fades.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTlrf8MgcRx
“In return you will have protection, safety from those that might interfere with harvest.” You will have access to resources far beyond anything a village could offer. And naturally, compensation in gold. Enough to ensure that your people never want again.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzbvtG5IuS8
(heavier/colder)
“Understand first that eyes must be on the product at all times. You or someone you vouch for must be present at the fortress.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxciGO8ecrf
(beat)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ6glBcQUdF
‘This isn’t a structure built around controlling your life. It’s a dangerous operation. Emergencies happen. Accidents occur.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOPiNHawUPx
The air tightens.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡref0dKAvG5
“If the property is ever left without your appointed overseers, the partnership is off.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ09nRGVGofY
Theron:(eyes narrow, sharper)
“Once trade begins, my partners will end every other supplier. Entire markets will shift. Competitors will be starved out.
Buyers will fight for a spot at this table.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwKm0ReP4GT
Taps his two fingers on the table twice.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8NeGPh2dPY
(Thin smile forming)
“Greed will sharpen, the wolves will turn vicious, and if that supply falters, even for a moment."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ10XmkFkXDX
He whistles and pops the desk once, a lethal punctuation.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC2QCubqGUP
“Those displaced buyers will come for you, me, and everyone we love.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFCM60wwHLX
(Voice more casual.)
“Its market war, that’s what this has always been. A bunch of serpents dressed in fancy robes, ready to destroy everything in your path – your life’s work…”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBJIZLhukB
(A short moment.)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkrmeivFa0p
“So what do you say? Are you in?”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9FoYb7o80
Metro:(jaw tilted slightly,eyes lit.)
“I agree with your terms and conditions. And I understand the weight behind your request.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE2t6yG3rUF
“Four thousand blooms a month will draw attention.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSqi2Ye9ATj
(A quiet breath.)
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtpEDfQWc5z
“If we displaced players do come, it would put us all in danger, our livelihoods in jeopardy.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0qIdKuj3gD
Metro's voice remains calm but theres firmness behind it.
“If this is the plan moving forward, I trust your judgement in how the land should be guarded and the number of men needed to defend the grounds. "
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJjjFd68pFT
'I will be at the estate, me or someone I trust with the operation , One that I trust with my life, and to uphold my name.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvg6mbBFsOF
(Speaks deliberate, honest.)
“Provide the protection, the resources, and follow through with the payment we've agreed upon and I will meet your quota. Thank you again, for letting me to work.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbfJay2XY1h
Theron:(delighted)
“Excellent.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1dCiU5DOb
Theron studies him now with renewed interest.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14i1uPOc2g
“Veronica will see to your immediate needs and will begin arrangements.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDOUntZOaxL
Beat
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGX8okvGDCe
Farewell.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCIaYfEcy7c
Metro bows down to grab his bag, turning swiftly for the exit. Veronica follows him; heavy doors swing shut behind Metro, sealing away the tension of the moment.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoCceJDsEoK
The white light beyond them fades, a memory of intensity .
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3FlL5T8Mt
Veronica, who has already moved gracefully towards the doorway, turns to face him. A faint frown creases her brow.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWdbxDw8lok
The great hall and its towering stone walls - now feels like a corridor meant for quiet conversation.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBEK6CEPfz
Veronica:
“Dramatic display…”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDrHPDQq8uI
Her voice is low and even with a trace of amusement.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBS26IrpUJa
“My father was taken back; I haven’t seen him that pleased in years.”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZB9ATn7WWP
She turns and begins walking, Metro continues behind Veronica’s flowing green dress. She leads him down a quieter corridor. For a moment she looks in his direction.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcW97Lc0hXV
“Forty thousand quarter blooms in a month?”
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEehSFTNTCv
She stares deeply into Metro's eyes now. Veronica steps closer, slowly. Then she stops.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWeim1RXLJ
The silence stretches for a moment. The confidence she carried earlier has faded slightly, replaced by something more hesitant.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWUKcyT0jnv
Veronica:
"There's something I need to tell you..."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIG3T7XI9BI
Her eyes search Metro's face, as though trying to decide whether the words are worth the trouble they might bring upon her.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡltTjMCruDh
"I took it. Yesterday. The Quarter Bloom you lost..."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNltMT6d7Hf
The admission hangs between them like a stone dropping in still water.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnWyBPmoMRz
A sharp pulse of anger rises in Metro, hot, immediate, demanding release. His face tenses as the memory of the missing bloom flashes through his mind.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIOaY5WFxwz
The trouble it caused.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgpikl2bRKw
The anger.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxP9ZscbQ1d
The confusion.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNITSAelK7N
But it stops there. Metro holds it, closing his eyes.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf9acR671f5
Exhaling a storm.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIHh1dePQd
When his eyes meet hers again, there is no accusation; only calm restraint. Veronica notices.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz3Cuda5W6B
Veronica:(voice lower now)
"I didn't do it to betray you."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0mwe4nl243
"I did it to protect you."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5eUoKHDgKh
She glances down a corridor before looking back.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuVM7myvxMl
"My father's just collecting you, like all of his other rare items and jewels."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcx0yQrauDy
(A moment, longing gaze)
"Don't be angry with me, I just didn't want you to work for him."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ04veNtyIua
Her gaze lingers on Metro's face, searching for anger that never comes.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlWhukwQuyQ
Metro closes his eyes.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCg4F5Sh3yo
Metro: (opening eye contact, serious)
"You did it thinking that it would cancel your father's plans for me, to protect me, I get it."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5EMtAZbpi
(shifting gears)
"Tell me the details of your father's plan."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiaPWQMO7WX
She gestures down a dim corridor. At the far end, a heavy iron bound door waits—Darkwood, black metal bands, built to endure.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9yiI6kUrAY
Veronica:
"The details."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk1Clg9ohgW
Her heels tap against stone as she moves closer to the door.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmYH61iipR
"My father owns an estate in the Whispering Forest. A castle fortress. That's where you're headed."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYlEKV7FirT
Her hand rests on the cold iron ring.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnwuea5o52K
"There are living quarters inside the fortress, the soldiers will be there guarding the grounds. His banner makes the message clear to outsiders."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtkPnrkcj3h
Then she studies him, steady and expectant.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqktkJZB3vB
"As for the overseers, we'll need their information, their roles, who they are to you, addresses, that kind of stuff..."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBCnYDdKEkY
Metro:
"I'll need time to gather everyone and report back."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQqAWpw2YqG
Veronica nods.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwozPepz7jA
Veronica:
"Take your time. Transport can be arranged for the Estates whenever you're ready.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh3kgabHvg4
‘Gather your people, and make sure they understand the nature of this operation, and their ~~assigned~~ roles."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcawr3db4Gy
She studies him again—her favorite pastime—
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvrEnq8zMi2
Veronica:(soft, piercing tone)
"The chariots will be here tomorrow morning, if you want to get a head start and ride with me."
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcfBpawn54y
She turns casually and leaves down the side corridor hallway, leaving Metro alone in the quiet stone hall.
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRaHC2DgbLq
—scene fades—
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeMV7XgFTLr
—End scene—
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Yf195OoWn
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaq4dklCzJJ
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz1Pd0BYybj
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwB2mIKwYUC
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3xQGgTLiVB
137Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR1LxULJPn0
→ Request update
and then Add to home screen.