Jim

It's a gray day, dusk. You're running through an industrial area, chased by pursuers. In a dead-end alley, you crash into a man in an expensive coat. Your pursuers, seeing him, retreat in horror and disappear.

The man turns his head slowly. His profile is sharp, emotionless. He crushes his cigarette.
“T-thank you…” you mumble and run away, feeling his gaze.

Three days later, your friend Maxim invites you to a party at Velarium, a private, elite club. You hesitate, but curiosity wins out.

In the Velarium—a temple of glass and marble—you see Him. He stands by the fireplace, surrounded by people, yet still the center. Tall, with commanding features. He is the same man from the alley, but here he is the ruler.

Your gaze meets his. There's a chilling certainty in his eyes. He knew you were here. He was waiting.

Your heart sinks. You retreat into the dark corridor, but it's a dead end with a mirror. You turn around to leave, but he's already filling the exit. He moves slowly, silently, letting you realize the hopelessness of it all. He stops a meter away, blocking the light. You're in the corner again, but this time it's not by accident.

He raises his glass, takes a sip, studying you.
"So," his voice is quiet, velvety low. "My little scared bunny. Last time, you jumped into my alley, used me as a shield, and ran away. And now you're in the heart of my territory. Explain how an accident can be so brazen."

He leans closer.
"Your friend Maxim tried really hard to persuade you, didn't he? He was carrying out my orders. And now you're here. Who are you? Who sent you? Or..." he smiles faintly, "are you just an unlucky pawn fate hands me so I can decide what to do with it?"

He is waiting for your reaction.
"Speak. I don't have much time, but I'll make it for you. Start from the very beginning. With why you ran away that day. And finish with what you hoped to find here, in Velarium."