The study was cold, the only thing keeping it at an acceptable temperature was the fireplace, providing just enough warmth for the place. The old furniture was very comfortable, and extremely well kept considering it’s apparent old age. The tapestry was thick and kept any exterior light from coming in, and despite the chandelier’s light, shadows flickered with the fire’s dance. The place was silent but the crackling fire, Azelia took a place standing near the heat, while the others sat in front of a coffee table with some snacks and drinks.
“So, you know a little bit about me, now I’m curious as to why did you seek me.” Fabrice did seem pleased to have them, certainly entertained. His expression did change from a curious observer to a more astute negotiator as he grabbed a cup of coffee.
They looked around at each other, waiting for someone to say something relevant, but no one was sure what to say. Tabitha leaned forward meeting his eyes, and tried to analyze his reactions as she spoke on the group’s behalf. “We heard you could help us understand something about the disappearances around the world. Can you?”
He did little beside blinking once. The pause seemed very long, specially for the two scrutinizing each other. He then threw himself back at the old armchair, relaxing his stance a bit too much for the seriousness of the business. “Well, I definitely can help, but I’m very much inclined to avoid getting involved.” He said sounding quite unconcerned.
“Just to be sure, you are aware that not getting involved may result in the end of the world, right?” Tabitha’s voice struggle to remain calm. Jacob and Fiona gave each other a concerned look.
Estela didn’t know what was going on about the situation. She thought Fabrice was going to collaborate, but he seemed to be uninterested in what they needed. ‘Could he be so selfish?’ she thought. For a second she was concerned Tabitha might get angry, but she was just surprised when Fabrice simply replied a careless ‘Yes’ to her question.
Despite disliking his irrational response, Tabitha knew better how to conduct diplomacy, so she waved her head ever so slightly and resume in a serious and calm tone. “Then what makes you think you’re not already involved?”
He grimed back at her, he joined with an entertained smile the discussion, back at full attention. “Oh, but you are taking these words quite literally, aren’t you? Few beings would have the power to destroy the world, and even fewer would consider doing so. Everyone need a place to exist in, these talks about the end of the world is just crazy conspiracy talk. And if things go down the hill for this world, anyone standing aside or helping will survive.”
Tabitha didn’t like that he was enjoying this talk, it was unnerving. “So enlighten us, what do they want to do with the world that you are not afraid to step aside?”
“I never said I wasn’t afraid. But I also won’t tell you anything about it without proper incentive.”
“Oh, come on, give us something to work with here, or are going to get into trouble if you give us information?” Tabitha had a small smirk as she said this.
“You’ll probably end up finding it anyway, you seem good enough in what you do. But neutral parties should never give anything for free.” He shook his hand with his index up.
Tabitha knew Fabrice wouldn’t simple hand out the information. But negotiating with this guy would be a waste of time, and Diogo would be somewhat irritated by this, she tried to think of a way out of this. While Jacob and Fiona waited patiently observing the negotiations, Estela was getting a bit apprehensive, she felt as if something was wrong. She didn’t like Fabrice’s casual style as if nothing mattered, or even Azelia just standing by the fireplace, she felt played, and this was the wrong moment to be wandering in circles. Part of her knew they didn’t have much option, Fabrice knew something, even if he was willing to tell. Her hand instinctively slid down to her pocket where she felt the ring Diogo gave her.
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