"Melodies of Harmony: A Prismatic Tale"

**Chapter 21**"In the Depths of Darkness"

As the clock struck 4 AM, the house remained in a deep slumber, the peaceful atmosphere cocooning each room in tranquility. But in the master suite, a darker presence stirred, taking advantage of the stillness.

David's rival, a cunning and resentful man named Marcus, had long harbored jealousy and disdain for David's success. Under the cover of darkness, he had carefully orchestrated his plan, using a disguise that allowed him to slip into the house unnoticed. With a sly grin, he quietly approached the master suite, knowing that David, a heavy sleeper with a penchant for loud snoring, would be an easy target.

As Marcus entered the room, he moved with practiced stealth, ensuring not to disturb the peace that surrounded the household. He approached the bed where David lay, blissfully unaware of the impending threat. In the dim light, he observed David's serene expression, the rise and fall of his chest synchronized with the rhythmic sounds of his snoring.

With a quick and decisive movement, Marcus sprang into action. He swiftly grabbed a roll of duct tape from his bag and worked quickly to bind David's hands and feet. David stirred slightly but remained in a deep sleep, oblivious to the danger encroaching upon him.

Marcus smirked at the sight of David still fast asleep, the heavy snoring echoing in the otherwise quiet room. He knew this would be his best chance to incapacitate his rival without causing any noise that could wake the household.

With deliberate speed, he reached for a piece of cloth from his bag, shoving it into David's mouth to muffle any sounds that might escape. David stirred again, instinctively trying to swat away the intruder, but Marcus was quicker. He secured the cloth in place with multiple layers of heavy-duty duct tape, ensuring that it would be nearly impossible for David to cry out.

Once satisfied that David was effectively silenced, Marcus took a step back to admire his handiwork. David's wrists were tightly bound behind his back, and his ankles were secured with more tape, leaving him helpless on the bed. The heavy-duty duct tape glinted in the low light, a grim reminder of Marcus's intent.

Meanwhile, as Marcus skillfully worked to secure David in a hogtie position, he couldn't help but smirk at the success of his plan. He had studied David meticulously, learning not only his routines but also his mannerisms and even his physical appearance. The disguise he wore was almost perfect-enough to deceive anyone who might encounter him.

Marcus felt a rush of adrenaline as he expertly maneuvered the thick rope he had brought, knowing that his construction background had equipped him with the skills necessary for this task. With quick, practiced movements, he tied David's wrists to his ankles, creating a tight hogtie that left David completely vulnerable and immobile.

Once he secured the rope, Marcus shifted his focus to David's torso. He wrapped a length of rope around David's chest, pulling it tight enough to ensure he couldn't wiggle free. As he knotted it securely, he felt a sense of satisfaction at how perfectly his plan was unfolding. Each wrap of rope tightened David's restraints, rendering him helpless.

Next, Marcus moved down to David's forearms, securing them tightly against his body. He could hear David's faint, muffled grumbles, but he ignored them, knowing that the sound would not carry beyond the room. He continued to bind David, moving down to his knees and thighs, ensuring that every part of him was restrained effectively. The rope cut into David's skin, but Marcus was careful to avoid causing any serious harm-he wanted to incapacitate him, not injure him.

Finally, he knelt beside David, who was starting to regain some awareness, his eyes fluttering open. Confusion washed over David's face as he realized the extent of his predicament. Panic set in as he struggled against the bindings, but Marcus was ready for this moment. He leaned in closer, a sinister smile creeping across his lips.