A few weeks later
Glenn stood before the grand mirror in his study, adjusting his cravat with meticulous precision. The morning sun filtered through the heavy drapes, casting a warm glow over the room's opulent furnishings. Today, he was to meet with several prominent figures—industrialists, politicians, and scientists—whose influence spanned the breadth of the Empire.
As he prepared, his thoughts lingered on Yvette. The child's crystalline eyes and ethereal presence had ignited an idea within him, one that melded his ambitions with the era's relentless pursuit of progress. In a society where technological advancements were revered, the concept of creating a being of unparalleled abilities—was not beyond the realm of possibility.
Descending the grand staircase, Glenn was greeted by the household staff, their bows and curtsies a testament to his authority. Luciana was among them, her gaze respectfully lowered. Unbeknownst to her, Glenn had been aware of her nocturnal visits to the lower districts for some time. His decision to follow her had been a calculated move, one that had led him to the discovery of Yvette.
"Ensure the study is prepared for my return," he instructed Luciana, his tone devoid of warmth. "I expect important guests this evening."
"Yes, Mr. Kingsley," Luciana replied, her voice steady despite the unease that gnawed at her.
Satisfied, Glenn donned his overcoat and stepped into the waiting carriage. The streets of London bustled with activity, the air thick with the scent of coal and the sounds of commerce. The city was a living entity, its veins pulsing with the lifeblood of industry and ambition.
—————
Arriving at the Athenaeum Club, a bastion of intellectual and political discourse, Glenn was ushered into a private room where his associates awaited. Lord Pembroke, a seasoned politician with a keen interest in military innovation; Sir Anderson Wainwright, an industrial magnate whose factories produced armaments for the Empire; and Dr. Erasmus Finch, a scientist whose experiments bordered on the controversial.
"Gentlemen," Glenn greeted, taking his seat at the head of the table. "I appreciate your promptness."
"Your summons intrigued us, Kingsley," Lord Pembroke replied, his eyes sharp with curiosity. "What proposition do you have that requires such discretion?"
Glenn leaned forward, his gaze intense. "Imagine a being, engineered to possess abilities beyond the ordinary—a human weapon, loyal and formidable, capable of executing tasks that conventional means cannot achieve."
Sir Anderson raised an eyebrow. "You speak of an augmented soldier? Such endeavors have been theorized but are fraught with ethical and practical challenges."
"Ethics are the refuge of the unimaginative," Glenn retorted. "The Empire's enemies do not constrain themselves with such niceties. To maintain our supremacy, we must be willing to transcend conventional boundaries."
Dr. Finch's eyes gleamed with interest. "The concept is tantalizing. However, the human body has limitations. Enhancing it to the extent you propose would require unprecedented experimentation."
"I have recently come across a subject," Glenn revealed, choosing his words carefully, "a child exhibiting extraordinary traits. With the right guidance and development, she could serve as the prototype for this endeavor."
Lord Pembroke frowned. "A child? This ventures into morally dubious territory, Kingsley."
"Progress often does," Glenn countered. "Consider the potential—a being capable of infiltrating enemy lines, gathering intelligence, and executing missions with unparalleled efficiency. The strategic advantages are immeasurable."
The room fell silent as the men contemplated the proposition. Ambition warred with conscience, the allure of power tempered by the remnants of morality.
"I propose a partnership," Glenn continued. "We pool our resources and expertise to develop this prototype. In return, we share in the benefits that such an innovation would yield."
Sir Anderson stroked his chin thoughtfully. "The industrial applications alone could revolutionize our production capabilities."
Dr. Finch nodded slowly. "And the scientific knowledge gained would be invaluable."
Lord Pembroke sighed, resignation in his eyes. "Very well, Kingsley. Proceed with your... project. But tread carefully. Should this endeavor become public, the repercussions could be severe."
A triumphant smile tugged at Glenn's lips. "Discretion is assured, my lord. We shall move forward with the utmost caution."
As the meeting adjourned, Glenn's mind raced with the possibilities that lay ahead. The path he had chosen was fraught with peril, but the rewards promised to eclipse the risks. The child would become the instrument of his ascension, a testament to his vision and ambition.
Later that day
Returning to his manor, Glenn found Luciana awaiting his arrival, the study prepared as he had instructed. He regarded her with a measured gaze, aware of the secrets she harbored, yet choosing to keep his knowledge concealed.
"Ensure that I am not disturbed for the remainder of the evening," he ordered, dismissing her with a curt nod.
"As you wish, Mr. Kingsley," Luciana replied, retreating from the room.
However she couldn't brush off the feeling of his predatory eyes on her, she felt a shiver run down her spine and she quickly wiped the cold sweat on her forehead before she continued to do what she was ordered to do so...
She gulped down her saliva as she slowly closes the double wooden doors shut.