King's Gambit

[Victor Steiner]

Perhaps he should have expected her to follow him, but he didn't. He did genuinely believe she would be a little more codial, but then, he sent her a message, he expressed an interest in meeting, not the other way around. It was perfectly understandable she would be cautious, hostile even. Maybe this was uncharted territory for her as much as him, perhaps it is just common sense not to trust intelligence officers, or maybe she just didn't like him, which would be less than surprising if he was being honest.

His eyes followed hers as she sat down, her manner, her tone of voice, the rise and fall of her chest all of it gave him the indication that she was still the predator that many feared. Odd really, for someone who willingly came here and had her son deliver a message. He closed his book and set it aside, now giving her his undivided attention, he spoke gently, not wanting to provoke her, his time in Rheinland returning to him a light, but still obvious, Rheinlandic accent. No one is coming through the door my dear. I gave you my word, face to face and alone. He looked into her eyes, he didn't come here to flirt but now that she was physically here in front of him, he realized that he'd never actually bothered to look at her in any great detail. The corner of his lip sprung upwards in amusment for a brief moment, she was pretty of that there was no doubt, but her looks hid a heart made of ice and a will of Iron, just like Dagon. Still, how many had met their demise thinking they had a shot with her? Whatever the number he was sure it was high, and he wasn't about to push his luck, although by now she had probably noticed his examining of her.

Thank you for coming. I imagine you're still a rather busy woman and I appreciate you taking the time. He smiled warmly at her, not feeling the need to be rude or rush things, one of the few pleasures he noticed while away was the ability to actually hold conversations and talk to people in a more open and civil tone. Perhaps she would be more comfortable if she saw him relax as well and maybe she would appreciate it as well if he could be a half by decent host at the same time. I was just about to put the kettle on, would you care for a brew? He said, standing and walking over to the small kitchen I hope you have been well. Your boy tells me you've undergone a few changes in lifestyle as of late. If you don't mind my asking, what are you doing with yourself these days? he filled the plastic jug and flicked the switch to turn it on before leaning back against the wall, waiting for it to boil. He watched her stir slightly and he wondered what she was thinking.

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