Marcello despised the smell of tobacco. He tried it once and never again. Luckily, almost being sick made him have a more serious attitude about the situation, and the glance from Bruma was a proper reminder to press on. In a matter of fact tone, Marcello said:
"Barca, the big news is war, between the heirs for Bosco. We need you to report on the atrocities committed by Brunhild and to give Reiner a positive outlook."
Big Barca gave Marcelo a suspicious glance. He looked very carefully at Bruma who was scanning the room with fervor. Speaking with a more settled attitude, he replied:
"I'm sure you do need it my friend. I'm sure you do! Brunhild has nearly double the support of Reiner, my friend. Of course, this would be big news, but big news comes at a big price."
It was hard to convince a merchant, especially a sleazy coward of a husk like Barca. It didn't take long to realize he was asking for compensation, even if there were some strongarming done. Perhaps he should let Bruma take over the persuasion. One weeks worth of exposure wouldn't cut it int he long run, people needed to know that Brunhild was a psychotic religious fanatic, that would stop at nothing to make sure a religious state was established. How could he convey to this short sighted profit chaser that the long term was with Reiner, not Brunhild? Violence? What kind of man was he. Marcello looked back at Bruma with a wondering glance, as though to ask for support. No doubt she would be annoyed, but she was the best at this sort of thing.
He spoke one more time to Barca:
"is your entire business a big enough cost? Haven't you noticed the papers in Brunhild's districts are no longer independent? Or maybe one of her goons are already keeping tabs on you?"
Big Barca squirmed in his seat. His eyes widened slightly as he sucked in his lower lip condescendingly. "You see..." he began, before stopping and leaving his words hanging in the air. Instead of answering, Barca cut open a fresh cigar, took a toke, and looked solemnly on his buzzing newsroom.
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posts: 2/3