Elysium Nights (WIP)

CHAPTER ELEVEN - THE PROPOSITION

In the months that followed his resounding victory, Lazarus plunged headlong into his endeavours within the Mafia, intensifying his efforts to an unprecedented degree. With relentless determination, he orchestrated a campaign that decimated the once-mighty, but now feeble Cartel, methodically dismantling their influence and authority until they were a mere shadow of their former selves. Exploiting their disarray and lack of leadership, Lazarus seized the opportunity to extend his dominion over the Waterfront District, strategically positioning his loyal men to assert control over the hollow streets.

His men, emboldened by their leader's unwavering resolve, not only seized control over the southern expanse of the city but also infiltrated the complex network of subterranean tunnels that intricately snaked beneath the urban sprawl. The clandestine passages, long overlooked by many, became the arteries through which Lazarus's dominion flowed. And at the heart of this labyrinthine undercity, the substation mansion stood as a symbol of power and authority, its shadowy corridors echoing with the whispers of criminal influence. With each passing day, Lazarus's grip on the city's throat tightened, his reach extending like the creeping tendrils of a vine, ensnaring all who dared oppose him.

Despite his string of triumphs, there was one aspect of Lazarus's life that seemed perpetually shrouded in neglect: Bethany. As Lazarus occupied himself in the affairs of power and dominance, Bethany found herself drifting through the mundane routines of life, wandering the bleak alleyways of the Slums, immersing herself in the chaotic energy of the eastern Bazaar, or losing herself in the solace of her bedroom workshop, where she tinkered alongside her cherished Faery doll.

However, as Lazarus's attention waned and his presence became increasingly scarce, Bethany's sense of disillusionment grew. She yearned for his affection, daydreaming of ways to rekindle the spark of their connection. Yet, despite her earnest attempts, her endeavours seemed futile, each effort falling short in the shadow of Lazarus's preoccupations.

Adding to her sense of isolation was the absence of meaningful companionship. Even her beloved Faery doll, though a faithful presence, could not offer the solace of conversation. It was in this state of longing and isolation that Bethany resolved to take matters into her own hands.

With determination fuelled by loneliness, Bethany embarked on a quest to remedy the silence that permeated her world. She understood the ongoing limitation that hindered reciprocated communication, the mere absence of a voice box. And so, resolute in spirit, Bethany set out to rectify this deficiency, determined to give voice to her silent confidant and, in so doing, perhaps bridge the chasm that separated her from the one she longed for. All she needed was the materials.

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of the eastern Bazaar, the artisan Daedalus was renown for his mastery of craftmanship. An elderly man with deep facial creases reflecting a lifetime of wisdom, he often adorned himself in an Atlantean-blue tunic and wore his thick white beard in a stylised, yet messy, plume of magnificence, accented by a perpetually burning pipe of Moly Weed. Among his treasures lay a material of unparalleled rarity: Orichalcum, a metal of legendary reputation said to possess a radiant reddish-gold hue, sourced from the distant shores of the great Euxine Sea.

Daedalus's reputation as a purveyor of fine goods extended beyond the boarders of the Bazaar, his name synonymous with quality and ingenuity. Among those who frequented his workshop were members of the esteemed O'Brian family. James O'Brian had been a close friend and frequent collaborator of Daedalus, particularly towards the end of his life. Together, they had embarked on numerous ventures, their shared passion for innovation and excellence driving them forward.

Following James's passing, Bethany remained a familiar face in Daedalus's establishment, though the nature of their relationship had shifted somewhat. Where once there had been camaraderie, there now lingered a sense of acquaintance tinged with the weight of loss. Nevertheless, Daedalus welcomed Bethany with warmth and familiarity, unaware of the complexities that lay beneath the surface of their interactions.