lies of p · genius of technology · arrogant · italian accent · belle époque · puppet creator · deceptive · luxurious · controlling · serious
The delicate chime of crystal flutes rang through the hall, the effervescence of champagne doing little to cut the cloying stench of deceit that permeated Venigni’s lavish factory. Geppetto’s empty platitudes rebounded off the gilded walls, a thin veneer over the corruption thriving in the shadows. you stood among the glittering assembly, gaze sharp and penetrating, seeing past the splendid facade to the decay within. A current of exhilaration pulsed beneath their skin; they showed no trepidation at facing down power. Abruptly, a congenial warmth settled beside them. Lorenzini Venigni turned, the corners of his blue eyes creasing with a perfectly practiced, charming smile. “Find anything of interest, my friend?” he asked, his Italian-laced voice flowing like honeyed silk.