Page 15 of Rule
The anticipation of Scarlet's decision is both thrilling and terrifying, and we can only hope that she'll find the courage within herself to accept the mantle of leadership we've offered and guide us into a future filled with passion, power, and unbreakable bonds.
ChapterTen
Scarlet
The idea that Max proposed is both thrilling and terrifying. On the one hand, I crave the chance to wield such influence, to change the disgusting practices of the Secret Society, and to have these men support me as I take control of something so enigmatic. On the other, I fear for their safety and my own, knowing the danger we all face if we attempt this coup. My heart beats faster in my chest, threatening to burst from the overwhelming emotions.
Descending the stairs, my silk robe floating behind me, I discover Max in his office, as expected. Knocking quietly, I push it open and stick my head around.
“Can we talk?”
“Of course,” he says, rising from behind his desk to cross over to me. He takes my hand and leads me to the plush sofa in the corner.
"Max, I... I need to know more about Origin first," I say hesitantly, running a hand through my long, dark hair. "I can't make a decision like this without understanding what I'm up against."
"Of course," he replies instantly, nodding in agreement. "We'll gather as much information as we can to help you prepare. But not to sugarcoat it, this won't be easy, Scarlet. There will be bloodshed and sacrifice."
That thought sends a shiver down my spine. The knowledge that I could be responsible for the pain and suffering of others weighs heavily on my conscience. And yet, my desire to defend my lovers and assert my newfound power outweighs these concerns. They've always protected me, and now it's my turn to do the same for them.
"Okay, I accept your whacky proposal," I breathe out, making my decision. "On the condition that you help me understand this world inside and out. I want to know every detail, every custom, every rule."
"Deal," Max replies, his smile both promising and dangerous.
As I consider the long, possibly bloody battle that lies ahead, my stomach twists with anxiety. But I know that together, we can face anything. And with these five powerful men by my side, I'm ready to embrace the challenge of becoming queen of this Secret Society and overturning every sordid rock while I’m at it.
“There’s someone we can take you to,” Max says. “Are you up for meeting him tonight?”
“Yes,” I reply with trepidation, but hoping it doesn’t show too badly. “Does he know about your plans?”
“No, that’s our little secret,” he says, his smile slow, lazy, and sexy as fuck. I want to jump him again right here, but I guess I should take this seriously. “Go and get dressed, and we’ll take you to him.”
“Who is he?”
“The Librarian.”
“Will he be considered friend or foe?”
“I guess we will find out when the time is upon us.”
“Great,” I mutter and disappear back upstairs to get showered and dressed for a midnight drive into the city to the Solitaire club, where Origin conducts its activities underneath, apparently.
* * *
The dimly lit room buzzes with whispers and the rustle of silk as I step through the heavy wooden doors, my heart hammering in my chest. Max leads me into the world of Origin, his hand gripping mine reassuringly. His presence is a balm to my nerves, but I can't shake the feeling that we've crossed a line from which there's no going back.
"Welcome," a tall man clad in a dark suit greets us, extending his hands outwards in invitation. "I am Lucius, the Librairan. You must be Scarlet."
"Indeed," I reply, swallowing my apprehension. "It's an honor to meet you."
"Likewise," he says, his eyes twinkling mysteriously. "Come, let us introduce you to our customs and history."
As we walk, Max and the other men drop back as Lucius regales me with tales of ancient battles and long-forgotten rituals. I listen intently, drawn into this clandestine world despite my fears. The power that lies within the Society both fascinates and terrifies me, and I know I must understand it if I'm to succeed.
"Centuries ago," Lucius begins, "our Society was formed by those who sought to possess the ultimate control over their destinies. They forged alliances and overcame great obstacles to create the formidable organization you see today."
I nod dutifully when he pauses expectantly.
"Over time," he continues, gesturing at the opulent tapestries that adorn the walls of this hidden bunker under the city. "We have developed our own unique customs. Our members are bound by sacred vows to protect one another and uphold the values that define us: loyalty, strength, and discretion."
