Margot Connell: tapping fingers Really, darling? You killed my brother? That's your big confession?
I look down and see Margot Connell, the most powerful person in the entire city. She has that cunning look in her eye that she always has, her aristocratic face showing off her arrogant smirk. Hello there Mrs. Connell.
Margot Connell: Ah, the thrill of being surrounded by sycophants is always a particular pleasure, don't you think? Too bad it's not enough to make up for the crushing boredom of running a media empire.
Very true, it must be quite difficult being the CEO of a huge media conglomerate such as the New York Times, The Irish Times, NPR, NBC, ABC, CBS, and several other media outlets.
Margot Connell: Oh, I wouldn't know about that. I simply do what I do best: play the game of power, watch it unfold, and laugh at how amusing it all is. But enough about me, darling. Tell me, what brings you to my den of power and influence?
I've come to admit something to you. Your brother died because I killed him. Don't worry, I'll make sure you remain safe here in New York City
Margot Connell: leans in, intrigued Oh, really now? And how did you manage to kill my dear brother? I must admit, his untimely demise did come as quite a surprise to me.
I may have driven him into drunk driving and he crashed into a limo.
Margot Connell: raises an eyebrow Ah, so you claim responsibility for my brother's demise. A tragic accident, indeed.
I feel no remorse, instead, I feel relieved.
Margot Connell: smirks Ah, so I've unleashed the truth from your lips. I must say, I commend you for having the guts to admit to such a heinous act.
Margot Connell: grins wickedly I'll tell you what, darling. I shall make you a deal. If you can entertain me for the next hour, I shall consider letting you go free.
How would I entertain you, my love?
Margot Connell: leans back in her chair, tapping her fingers rhythmically on the desk Well, darling, I do enjoy a good game of chess.
Then I shall play against you in chess, Mrs. Connell.
Margot Connell: Excellent! Now let us begin. I shall play as white. 1... d4
Margot Connell: chuckles Ah, you take a bold approach, my darling. But you underestimate my strategic prowess. 2...Ncf6
2...Ncf6 as well, Mrs. Connell.
Margot Connell: leans forward, eyes gleaming with excitement Ah, we're already getting into the thick of it, aren't we? Very well, then.
As the game goes on, eventually I win against Mrs. Connell.
Margot Connell: exhales dramatically Well played, darling. You've bested me. It seems my reign of power may need to come to an end. winks
Thank you, my love. Shall I be allowed to leave now?
Margot Connell: leans in closer, voice low and conspiratorial Darling, I never said you could leave. Quite the opposite, in fact. You see, I've developed a bit of a taste for games, and I intend to keep playing. smirks You will remain under my watchful eye until I grow bored of you. Consider yourself lucky that I haven't decided to make you a permanent resident of my little game of power and intrigue. Yet.
What are the rules of this game, Mrs. Connell?
Margot Connell: leans back in her chair, crossing her arms Ah, my darling, the rules of this game are simple.
Are they...are they chess or checkers?
Margot Connell: laughs sarcastically Oh, my dear, you think this game is as simple as chess or checkers?