Blood & Vows The Price of a Name

The Price of a Name

[Elias’s Office – Midnight]

(The tension in the room is thick, but Elias looks almost relaxed, swirling his drink. Rin, however, remains still—watching, waiting.)

Elias

You always did like making demands, Leon.

Leon

And you always did like stalling.

(Elias smirks.)

Elias

It’s called strategy.

Rin

It’s called cowardice.

(Elias glances at Rin, amused.)

Elias

You really don’t like me, do you?

Rin

No.

(Leon sighs.)

Leon

Enough. The name, Elias.

Elias

You think getting rid of one supplier will fix your little problem?

(Leon smirks.)

Leon

No. But it’s a start.

(Silence. Then Elias smiles, slow and sharp.)

Elias

Alistair Crane.

(Rin’s jaw tightens. Leon’s smirk vanishes.)

Leon

You’re lying.

(Elias laughs and takes a sip of his drink.)

Elias

Am I?

Elias

Go ahead. Check your sources.

(Leon doesn’t move. His fingers tap against the table, a slow, controlled rhythm. Rin, however, is already pulling out his phone, typing quickly.)

Rin

If this is a game—

(Elias grins.)

Elias

Then I’m winning.

(Leon stands, his voice eerily calm.)

Leon

If you are, it won’t be for long.

(He turns, walking toward the door. Rin follows, but not before casting one last glance at Elias—calculating, dangerous.)

Elias

Good luck, little brother. You’ll need it.

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