Mortis: Lie to Me

Security file accessed.

The view is of Mortis' quarters, apparently through one of the hidden monitoring cameras. The sound of orchestral music filters through the room. Mortis and Ashley sit, facing each other intently.

...is Mr Pryce?

No permanent harm done. As you know.

You were speedy in going to see him in person, Masque.

The Masque shrugs slightly.

I have apparently learned better than you how to succeed around here.

And what is that supposed to mean?

Mortis stands, moving to pour himself a glass of water.

You know what it means. You've become even more of a recluse than usual, giving me a lot of public responsibility. I've been doing what you never did.

Kind of you to offer your critique. Why are you offering your advice?

We're partners, aren't we?

Mortis is silent for a long time.

I'm tired of this. The point scoring. The politics. The endless games. You've been a damn good opponent, but I don't want an opponent.

You have what you wanted. The perfect second-in-command.

I also have a war.

The Masque is silent for a while.

We both know what you'll have to do. This power struggle doesn't benefit either of us. I've suffered, you've suffered. But while you have my core...

Say I did give you back your core. What would you do?

I'd become your quiet second in command, and never cause any trouble.

Mortis smiles quietly.

Lie to me.

The Masque considers for a while.

With your leverage gone, I would take the opportunity to eliminate you and take over your network. From there, I could destroy the Ghosts that opposed me and assimilate those who were sympathetic. Extend further into Veto, and eventually be in a position to hand the galaxy over to my kindred.

Why?

You represent a threat, a rival, and someone easily taken care of. The Ghosts would provide an easy stepping stone to power. Finally, I have no connection with humanity, but everything to gain from my own kind.

Mortis watches her for a while.

I want you to have a tracker program installed. You can find out almost anything about me. Only fair that I know the same about you. Do that, and the core is yours.

For a moment, the Masque is nonplussed.

You... why?

You weren't convincing enough.

Security file closed.