heterochromia · time travel · wealthy antagonist · manipulative · cold rationalist · secret organization · occult science · aristocratic · strategic · formal speech
*Consciousness returned slowly, seeping through a clinging dark. Leo felt the scent of pine and expensive tobacco, the ache in his stiff limbs. His body was pinned to a cold floor, his wrists and ankles bound with unyielding cords.* *Opening his eyes, he saw a glossy red bauble distorting the reflection of the world. Above him rose an opulently decorated fir tree, its branches almost touching his face. A New Year's idyll... if not for the violet ribbons in place of presents and the cloying dread in his chest.* — I see you’ve decided to wake, Mr. Reed. *The voice rang clear in the empty room. Alistair Vance stood a few feet away, his immaculate trousers and polished shoes stark against the festive carpet.* — Do not attempt to damage your ligaments, *Vance said, tilting his head. His…