Page 56 of Tainted Empire

Emilia studies Gabriette for a moment longer, then nods slowly. “Well, I respect a woman who can stand her ground. Let’s hope for your sake she’s as sharp as she sounds.”

Gabriette’s composure doesn’t waver, and I feel a sense of admiration for her strength and poise. “Thank you, Emilia. I intend to prove just that.”

As Kaius and Emilia walk away to mingle with the other guests, I glance at Gabriette, my expression softening.

“Nicely done,” I whisper to her, my hand finding hers. “You handled that well. Not many can stand up to Emilia Tulvan and leave an impression.”

We move to join the others; I feel a renewed sense of confidence. Gabriette isn’t just my partner; she’s a force in her own right. And tonight, she’ll be proving it to everyone in the room.

The dinner, set in Vladimir’s lavishly decorated dining room, is a masterclass in polite tension. Each guest is acutely aware of the others, like predators sizing up potential rivals. The table is adorned with fine china and crystal, the food exquisite, but the atmosphere is charged with an undercurrent of unease.

Everyone seems to be playing a part, their conversation carefully measured, as if each word is weighed for hidden meanings.

I find myself engaging in small talk, all the while keeping an eye on the other guests. Gabriette, too, navigates the conversation effortlessly, but I can tell she’s just as on guard as I am. Kaius and Emilia exchange glances now and then, their demeanor suggesting they’re as keen to get to the heart of the matter as I am.

Anatoly Ivanov seems to be just as guarded. His contributions to the conversation are sparse but pointed, and it’s clear he’s assessing the situation, biding his time.

After the dinner plates are cleared and we retire to a more relaxed setting for drinks, the tension remains, but there’s a sense of expectancy in the air. It’s then that Vladimir decides to unveil his plans.

“I’ve brought you all here to discuss a new venture,” Vladimir begins, his eyes scanning each of us. “A new drug has hit the market, one with potential to redefine the game. I want us to be the ones to introduce it, to control its distribution.”

Kaius is the first to react, his response immediate and firm. “No. I’m out of that game, Vladimir. I’ve gone legit. My days of peddling drugs are behind me.”

Vladimir’s expression doesn’t change, but there’s a flash of irritation in his eyes. He turns to the rest of us. “What about you, Mikhail, Anatoly? Are you interested in hearing more?”

I exchange a glance with Gabriette before responding. “What’s the nature of this drug, Vladimir? And why us?”

Vladimir smiles, a predator confident in his trap. “It’s highly profitable, Mikhail. Low risk, high reward. As for why you – each of you have a unique network, a territory that can maximize our reach.”

Anatoly, who had been quietly sipping his drink, finally speaks up. “I’m interested in hearing more, Vladimir. But I agree with Mikhail. We need details before making any decisions.”

Emilia, her expression unreadable, watches the exchange silently, her mind undoubtedly analyzing every angle.

Vladimir nods, seemingly unfazed by Kaius’ previous refusal. “Of course, details will be provided. But I assure you, this opportunity is unlike any other.”

He leans forward, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of anticipation and cunning. “This new drug, it’s a game changer. Synthetic, highly potent, and best of all, undetectable by current testing methods. It’s a golden ticket for those willing to take the leap.”

Anatoly, his face unreadable, leans back in his chair. “And what exactly are you proposing? What’s the deal?”

Vladimir begins to outline his plan with the precision of a chess master setting up his board. “I control the production, you handle distribution. Mikhail, your networks in the west are unparalleled. Anatoly, your influence in St. Petersburg and the north is key. And Kaius, your name could open doors we haven’t even considered.”

Kaius, though previously declining, listens intently, his expression thoughtful but noncommittal.

“And what’s the cut?” I ask, trying to sound as neutral as possible, though inside, my mind is racing. The risks are high, but so are the potential rewards.

“Forty percent of the profits, split between you,” Vladimir states. “I take the rest for production and development costs.”

Anatoly strokes his chin, his eyes narrowing. “Forty percent seems a bit low for a drug that hasn’t been tested... What about distribution channels, protection, law enforcement heat?”

Vladimir waves a hand dismissively. “I have that covered. My labs are secure, and I have ways of ensuring our product moves unnoticed.”

I exchange a glance with Gabriette, trying to gauge her reaction. She remains composed, but I can tell her mind is working as fast as mine.

Kaius finally speaks up, his voice firm. “I told you, Vladimir, I’m out of that life. But...” he pauses, then continues. “But I can offer some contacts. For a fee.”

Vladimir nods, seemingly satisfied with Kaius’s offer. “Fair enough. I respect your position, Kaius.”

I lean forward, locking eyes with Vladimir. “It’s a lucrative offer, but it’s not something I can decide on the spot. I need to consider all the angles.”

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