V1CE: Online

A Growing Empire

Alan pulled out his journal, looking over the papers that Alora had dropped off. Her demeanor had been improving since Bae had arrived in Emberdale. Even with the increased workload, as Merrik was constantly training with Wreckt, she did so without complaint. Wreckt and Bae were unaware of Lorka's increased leveling, something Alan wanted so that he could determine an average leveling time.

Merrik constantly looked beaten down, in contrast to Alora. Since he was receiving combat training from Wreckt on a daily basis, and the fact that he was already a level thirty NPC, Alan wondered if his leveling progress might slow as a result. Each variable would help him shape his employees, and the organization as a whole.

His other concern was the amount of financial services he was being forced to provide. From the Mormon church, to the brothel Bae was constructing, many of his gold influxes were coming in the form of long-term payments. It was a slow trickle, and with Winter having arrived, many commoners were cautious about their spending. Travelers and merchants from other towns had become the prime patrons of his entertainment, but their funds were temporary. In the off-season, he needed a new venture to help support his rising costs.

He rubbed his brow, frustrated. The Duke was next to worthless in the city, and most of the public works projects had been laid at his feet. The people loved him, but the established order couldn't be upended publically. Real power was his, and the Duke had become a simple figurehead of fortunate blood. The royal snob had been getting wealthy beyond his station thanks to the taxes he continued to collect, without the need to spend it. Alan wanted to pay him a short visit, reminding the man who was allowing him to live in such a manner.

"This is frustrating..." he whispered to himself as he closed the journal.

Standing up, Alan walked out of his casino office, acknowledging the pair of security guards that were waiting outside. Looking up, he saw Alora walking down the hallway, looking over a collection of notes. She was lost in thought, talking to herself as she read the papers. Finally, she noticed Alan, and in a juvenile manner, hid the notes behind her back.

"Master All-In, my apologies. I was just going over some notes Bae had me write down," she stammered, before trying to rush past him.

His hand gripped her wrist, and she stopped in her tracks. "Really? Do you mind if I see?"

Before she could protest, he had slipped the pages from her hands without her even noticing. As she turned, her face grew pale. Alan skimmed over the works, which contained several references to seduction. At the bottom of the page was a small section written in a different handwriting.

Homework: Use your body to seduce All-In. Make sure to wear revealing clothing, and to use fluid motions as you walk, just like I taught you. A light touch is all it will take to have him eating out of the palm of your hand. Remember, no fucking on the first date!

Alan swallowed as he tried clearing his throat. "I see. Well...I'm glad that you've been so diligent in your studies."

"M...milord, please don't think I planned to listen to Bae's ridiculous suggestions. I would never dream of disrespecting you with such a display."

Alan doubted her words. The top button of her blouse was undone, revealing the edges of a white laced bra. Her hair was braided, allowing him to see her neck and freckled cheeks. Most likely, she was heading to his office to attempt to fulfill Bae's instructions.

She turned and hurridly walked down the hall away from him, and he felt guilty for stealing a look at the notes. Alora was normally composed and stoic, but Bae's training was designed to break her out of that mindset. Alan was surprised at the route Bae was taking. Instead of focusing on business aspects, which were Alora's strengths, she chose to improve Alora's weaknesses. It was an interesting route.