As evening settled over the city, a palpable tension blanketed the fortified manor where Vicenzo had summoned the high council's emergency meeting. Guards in crisp black suits prowled the grounds, their hollow eyes scanning every shadow for potential threats.
Inside, the grand hall echoed with the muted footfalls of Vicenzo's men setting up the long, polished oak table. Platters of premium cigars and amber-filled crystal decanters lined the glossy surface, thin tendrils of smoke already perfuming the air.
"I want a sweep of the entire building completed before our...guests arrive," Vicenzo growled, raking a hand through his sweat-damp hair. "And get Marco over here - I need to go over security protocols one more time."
"Right away, sir." One of the men ducked out, returning a few minutes later with Marco, Vicenzo's most trusted detective.
