A week has passed since Ren recruited the tech guy, Jason, and Ren's world has transformed rapidly.
The once-scattered and improvised approach to his plans has given way to something more organized and efficient. Elisha, the meticulous and sexy secretary, has secured a building—a sleek, modern structure previously used as a corporate office—to serve as their base.
Ren funded the purchase with wealth, ensuring there were no financial constraints.
The building now boasts a tech lab outfitted with high-end computers and servers, a series of meeting rooms, and private quarters for those closest to him.
Jason, the tech expert, has his own space where his genius can thrive.
Elisha has also begun implementing her vision for a functional organization, creating roles and structures necessary for future growth.
And today,
Ren stands by the window of the main meeting room, looking out over the city. The skyline is painted in hues of orange and red as the sun begins to set.
He turns as Elisha enters, her stride purposeful, a tablet in hand.
Jason follows, his steps hesitant but steadier than when Ren first recruited him.
"Shall we begin?" Elisha asks, gesturing toward the round table in the center of the room.
Ren nods and takes his seat at the head of the table. Elisha sits beside him, and Jason takes a chair opposite, placing a laptop in front of him.
Elisha starts with a brisk tone.
"The building is fully operational. Security systems are in place—cameras, reinforced locks, and keycard access for restricted areas. I've taken the liberty of creating a hierarchy for the organization. We'll need to fill key positions to keep things running smoothly."
"What positions?" Ren leans forward, resting his elbows on the table.
Elisha scrolls through her tablet.
"First, we need a security team. We can't rely on just you; we need personnel to guard the premises and handle any threats."
"Second, a logistics specialist—someone to manage finances, supplies, and day-to-day operations."
"Third, scouts or recruiters to find potential clients or recruits."
Ren considers her words, his fingers tapping against the polished wood of the table.
"And what progress have you made on these?"
"I've begun scouting for candidates, but finding loyal individuals takes time," Elisha replies.
"Discretion is key. We can't risk exposing ourselves too soon."
Ren nods, his gaze thoughtful.
"Good. Loyalty is non-negotiable. I'd rather have a small, reliable team than an army of liabilities."
Jason clears his throat, drawing attention to himself.
"Uh, about The Black Eden… the groundwork is complete."
Ren shifts his attention to Jason, his eyes narrowing slightly.
"Explain."
Jason hesitates for a moment before speaking, his voice gaining confidence as he continues.
"The platform is secure. Only you, as the admin, can invite members. Anonymity is built into the system—everyone uses aliases, and no real names or personal details are required. Communication is encrypted, and the servers are hidden behind multiple layers of security. It's undetectable."
"What about functionality?" Ren asks, his tone sharp but not unkind.
"It's basic for now," Jason admits.
"Users can communicate through a simple interface. No video calls or private boards yet, but those can be added later. The focus was on security and reliability for this phase."
Elisha nods approvingly.
"That's smart. Simplicity is less likely to raise suspicions."
Ren leans back, his expression unreadable.
"Good work, Jason. Keep it secure. If anyone tries to breach it…" He lets the threat hang in the air, and Jason nods quickly.
"I've added anti-hacking protocols," Jason says, his voice firm. "It's as secure as it gets."
Elisha takes the lead again, her tone shifting to one of anticipation.
"I've identified a potential first client. The Lancaster family, husband, victor Lancaster, CEO of the Lancaster enterprise, and wife, Isabella Lancaster. Their daughter, Emily Lancaster, sixteen-year-old, was in a car accident last year. She lost her legs and has been confined to a wheelchair. They've tried every treatment money can buy, but nothing has worked. They're desperate."
Ren's interest piques, and he tilts his head.
"Desperate enough to pay any price?"
Elisha nods.
"Yes. And their influence could be useful to us. But it won't be easy. They live in a gated mansion with tight security. We'd need to approach them carefully."
Jason frowns. "How do we even get close to them? People like that don't just let strangers walk in."
Ren smirks. "That's where subtlety comes in. We don't need to walk in; we need to make them come to us. Desperation has a way of opening doors."
Elisha adds, "We'll need to craft the approach carefully. One wrong move, and they could turn against us."
Ren taps his fingers on the table again, a habit that betrays his deep thought.
"I'll handle this one personally. The first client sets the tone. They'll learn what I can do, and they will want my services at any cost."
Ren stands, signaling the end of the meeting.
"Prepare everything else while I'm gone. Security, logistics, and recruitment are your priorities. Jason, keep working on The Black Eden. Elisha, find those candidates. I'll take care of the family."
As he moves toward the door, Elisha speaks up. "Ren."
He pauses and glances back.
"Be careful," she says simply.
Ren smirks. "Awww, now that's what I needed."