The Meeting At The Table

The useful part

I have used a mixed format, script-like and story-like, only because I thought it would be easier to identify the speakers. They came together in a smoke-filled room, thrust together for the latest phase of an ongoing concern. Each of the four took their place quietly and orderly, dressed to the nines.

How it works

• I do the work while you lot pursue your wars, your sentiments, your wealth.
• That's what happens when you don't have to work to come out on top.
• The two young men sitting on either side stiffened at the officious tone, but the old woman, seated opposite, took no notice.
• After the briefest respectful pause, one of the young men, fondling a ring on his finger, spoke.
• Forgive me, but all the tenderness in the world won't secure a victory for our side.

What to take from it

As I've been the most successful of our set, it's only logical that I should begin the-- At this point, the other young man, sitting opposite and fiddling with the patch on his eye, interrupted.

Details worth keeping

The old man, it came as no surprise, was first to speak. If my guess is right, this one has an issue with taking things seriously. To the business at hand: obviously, I should take the lead when it starts.