The Shadow and the Serpent
Part II: The Court of a Tyrant
The Elysium of Cologne was held in a building that was some part castle some part lavish townhouse and it was here among the pomp that Prince Hardesadt could often be found cultivating his schemes for power. Countless Ghouls and blood dolls skulked about while Kindred each competed for the patronage of the Ventrue Prince, none were foolish enough to conspire against the Prince for his grip on his Domain was like an iron gauntlet.
Hardesadt cared little for socializing if it did not offer him any long term reward and often he could just show his face at Elysium and bring a still quiet to the room. This night was as many others Hardesadt entered in to a room that was familiar to him all be it with some strange faces among the crowd. He said nothing his face was cold as ever yet still so great was the magnitude of his presence that a hush fell over the room.
He strode through the room careful to make eye contact with a few advisers and several would be rivals just to chill their souls as he passed by. The Prince kept his silence and climbed a series of stairs which lead to a balcony overlooking the hall where the festivities resumed.
“You cannot hide from me.” His words were cold as to be expected and his eyes unflinching.
“Of course.” A female Kindred appeared behind him leering through her own talents for Obfuscation.
“Gisela, you have been a most effective retainer over these trying years but your time in my service shall soon be at an end.” He lectured her not in a condescending way, the way he spoke was more matter of factly.
“She will awaken soon ? How do you know ?” Her words rang almost as cold as his.
“I know because I must know such things, nevertheless one last task remains for you while you remain in my service.” He continued now turning to face her.
“You shall be my eyes, ears, and if necessary my hands among the Legion of the Dead.” He spoke now with sternness turning his attention to the main door of the hall where Heinricus stepped through the door.
Like a bee the Nosferatu traveled from circle to circle but his intent was always to work his way to Hardesadt and quickly enough he stood before the Prince and his retainer.
“My lord Hardesadt a pleasure to meet you at long last.” The gilded Haunt spoke with thinly veiled humility
“Heinricus your talents … proceed you. I understand that you have assembled many of your soldiers here, shall I presume that you are interested in addressing my struggle.” Hardesadt spoke and his body did not so much as move he was perfectly still.
“Indeed it would be my pleasure to see your enemies undone.” His crooked voice was sniveling all the same.
“I assume that also means you have our fee.” Heinricus was practically salivating.
“I have, your payment will come in silver, half now half when the task is completed, a potion of it shall be raw silver and the remainder shall be minted.” A touch of disgust rang in the Ventrue’s voice.
“There is one more thing.” Hardesadt turned his attention to Gisela.
“This is Gisela Drogomier, she is a loyal retainer of mine and a local member of your Covenant, I would like for her to join your company for this venture, to attest to what it is I am paying for.” Hardesadt spoke shrewdly.
“Certainly, I do hope you can keep up little girl, respectfully my lord Hardesadt I will return to the fine gathering bellow, we can hammer out the details later.” Heinricus offered a crooked smile before departing.
“Irrelevant half wit.” Gisela spoke coldly.
“Worry not Gisela, he shall serve his purpose, think of this as a lesson, all people have something by which they may be bent, for Heinricus it is wealth, if you know what will bend those around you utilize it.” Hardesadt briefly looked to her before scanning the crowd.
“Money, a lover, a desire, all of these things can be used to manipulate, strengthen or weaken.” He continued.
“I understand.” She came by his side as they surveyed the crowd.
“I knew that you would.” Hardesadt spoke, pleased by the nights events.