Persuasive Negotiation (closed for jainarain)

[Tempestcj]

Derek Capon looked down at the mosaic that had been crafted with an intricate pattern of blue and green stones in the center of his office. It truly was a thing of beauty. The artisans had exceeded his very lofty expectations for the piece. Throughout the day, the sunlight and shadows would bathe the gleaming stones creating a constantly changing work of art. It was a reminder for him of how all things can change, even static stones, given time and light.

He turned to the window and watched as Nadia Vatal’s carriage approached the estate. He allowed himself a triumphant grin as the months of planning and preparations were now all coming together. The negotiations would be one-sided and he would take greater control of the counsel while Lady Vital would be cast into the shadows. His rival would no longer be a threat to him or his power.

The carriage slowed to a stop and there was a knock at his door. “Lord Capon, Lady Vital has arrived,” said Blake. He watched as Nadia stepped out, flanked by her guard. As usual, she looked stunning. Her fine silk robes were thin and seemed to flow with every curve of her body as she moved gracefully.

“Very well. I will be down to greet her personally.”

 

[jainarain]

Nadia Vatal looked out the window of her carriage as it wound through the city streets towards Lord Capon's estate. The sun was shining, shops were busy, women tended their gardens, the children played. "We're making a difference," said Elana softly as she pulled her long blonde hair into a pony tail. "The wounds are healing. People are back about their business."

"There will still be a scar. A reminder of what true evil looks like and the chaos that can be inflicted," Nadia replied absently. Her thoughts were elsewhere. She was bothered by the lack of intel her spies had been able to collect regarding Lord Capon's invitation. He was keeping the details close to the vest. She was going in blind.

"Despite the best efforts of Lord Capon and his allies, you have made great strides my Lady. Do not let the slow progress get you down. Returning normalcy to the city is in itself quite an accomplishment."

"I do not fret the pace of progress. Lord Capon and I have our differences, and that will not change, but the tension between us is necessary." The carriage rolled through the massive gate to the estate. "His dissent leads to greater acceptance of the counsel and brings peace in our city."

"His dissent leads to his wealth," Elana spat.

"That will be enough," Nadia replied as the carriage rolled to a stop in the courtyard. Elana nodded and stepped out, taking a cursory glance before signaling back to Nadia. Nadia stepped out of the carriage, smoothed her robes and took a deep breath. "Lead the way, Elana."

"Yes, My Lady." Elana strode a half step ahead towards Blake. As they walked forward, Nadia saw Lord Capon join his assistant at the top of the stairs.

"Lord Capon, thank you for your generous invitation to your home," Nadia said keeping her best manners in mind.

 

[Tempestcj]

Derek moved to Blake's side just as Lady Vatal and her bodyguard were approaching the stairs. "I trust you will keep Elana occupied while I negotiate with Lady Vatal," he said softly. Blake gave a nod, indicating his understanding of the order. Derek locked eyes with Lady Vatal and stepped forward with a polite smile. He could sense her suspicion behind her usual cool confidence. She was off-balance and that would play into his hands.

"Lord Capon, thank you for your generous invitation to your home." Her warm tone hid her anxiety well.

"Lady Vatal, I'm humbled by your presence. I've never had the opportunity to entertain a woman of such grace and beauty. You raised the value of my estate the moment you passed through the gate." He reached for her hand in customary greeting. He then turned his attention to her bodyguard and smiled as he looked her up and down, "And of course, the lovely Elana. It is a pleasure to have you here as well. I hope you have brought your appetite. We have prepared you lunch, along with a selection of our finest wines while Lady Vatal and I talk in private. Should you want for anything, Blake will have it brought to you."