Igor could not keep his hand from shaking when he opened the large, massively decorated doors that led to the inner sanctum. He came here regularly, and yet there was no getting used to dealing with him.
Across the room, behind a massive desk, sat the bald figure, a cruel look on his face. Behind him on the wall: A large picture showing that same man, topless, riding through the Russian woods. Vladimir Putin.
Putin's right hand held a strangely colored cup. It seemed to be an ordinary grey, and yet every time Igor saw the cup, a shiver ran down his spine.
"Igor", said Putin in a seemingly friendly tone. "How good of you to come see me. Do you have any news on our little project?"
"I-Indeed", Igor stammered. "Everything is in motion as planned. I believe we can be sure..."
At this point, Putin interrupted him. "Igor", he said, "you disappoint me. Was this Scott Walker not meant to take the American presidency? Did you not assure me that it was him that had the best chances?"
"I-I know. This did not turn out the way we thought. But you know, we still have three agents in the race who look very promising."
Putin's gaze seemed to go right through Igor's flesh, cutting through his bones and piercing his heart. "Have I ever told you how this cup was manufactured?"
Igor was stunned. What was this about? "I don't think so, sir."
"I treasure it much, you know. It has... a very good feel. It was crafted from a very rare material." Putin paused before continuing. "A human skull."
There was a long, threatening silence before Putin raised his voice again. "I always thought it was a pity that I only possess one of them. This cup... was crafted from the remains of your predecessor in the intelligence service, you see?"
Igor gasped. "Sir, I swear..."
Putin's voice was calm, yet full of anger. "We spent years infiltrating the American politcal system. It took us a long time to get our agents to positions important enough that they would be considered potential candidates for the presidency. We have thwarted the Democrat party towards a socialist agenda. Taking control of the Republican party as well was not that easy. Yet you assured me you were ready. You told me that next year, we could finally bring our own president into office - the one that will help Russia rise to power while America staggers and falls into ruin.
"This is what you promised. I expect no less. Now go. Do your job."
"Y-Yes, Mister President."
Igor gave a sigh of relief when the heavy doors closed behind him. It was not over yet.
Night 0 begins now and ends on October 7, 6 am forum time. Everyone should confirm their PMs until then.
THREAD LOCKED!