Voices in the Dark

"All according to plan." Their voice cut through an isolated room like a slow striking blade.

The only other person was attentive and bowed before the speaker. "It was as you said. He'd fallen asleep and so the deed was carried out. Now I expect you to uphold your promises, won't you?"

"Do not take me for some jester of cheap trickery! You shall indeed be given as promised!" Their tone snapped with commanding authority. Fingers curled over the ends of the armrest of their chair and their nails scraped at the polished wood before being forced to retain control. "The old fool always dropped his guard in times of celebration. If not tonight then some other night...this was a mercy killing. Hmph! No matter. There is still much to be done…" They stood and approached their servant who remained on their knees. Reaching into the folds of their clothes, a leather sack was revealed, jingling as they held it out for the other to take, and then immediately pulling it back when they reached for it. "You did everything as instructed, correct? Tell me…"

"Yes, as you ordered. I made sure to keep my face hidden, waited until he was aware of the attack, and then fled. Evidence was left: door open, and an iron candle holder knocked over outside before I made haste."

"You're certain that not a soul saw you?"

They nodded slowly.

Suspense hung in the air between them until finally the leather sack was given over. Coins jingled as it settled in the person's hands. "Very well then. You used not all of the poison, correct?"

"No. I was certain to let a small amount stain his face and his hand."

"Perfect. Then you have indeed done as I've asked. It was not an easy task, crafting that poison, you know. Obtaining the venom alone was by sheer luck. Now...tomorrow we shall see how this plays out, but you mustn't carry out the next task too soon. Do you hear me?"

Their servant nodded their head. "As you wish. When do you feel would be the most opportune moment?"

"Hmmm," he snickered. "Really? Why, after tomorrow I dare say he'll be in the most vulnerable state of all. Even still, just like his father, Snow will place his trust far too easily in those he's familiar with. He'll trust you as he has over the years, and when you're alone with him after things begin to settle down just...use your imagination."

Silence.

"Oh, but I must insist on a little extra assurance. You will have to bring me something of his as proof. I'm confident of my methods, but someone else's...well, I won't accept anything less than absolute success. Not a ring or a piece of cloth or his hair. Retrieve the prince's heart…"

"Please!" Their servant stood abruptly. "Surely that won't be necessary. He will be dealt with, I assure you, but to do something so cruel- so violating-"

"You dare disobey me?!" A hand was raised over the one kneeling, the tips of their nails beginning to glow while the other slipped into the folds of their clothes once more, searching and taking hold of something unseen. Whatever it was they held made their guest pull back and resume kneeling, head tilted downward.

"No...as you wish," they spoke through their teeth. "His heart you shall have."

"As I thought," they said with a smirk before lowering their hand. "If everything is clear then come tomorrow you are to act in turn alongside everyone else. There will be panic, accusations, and chaos, but it will all come to an end, soon enough. That's when you are to move. Understand?"

"Yes…"

They nodded, smirking once again. "Good. After your next task is complete then the next half of our little promise will be upheld." The shadowy figure slowly, briskly walked back before being seated, eyes glancing at the window of the chamber. "This kingdom will have its rightful ruler by the end of this tale, by any means!"