Accentrik Graphic Novel Part 2 (Working Title)

Mar 28, 2025By Anil Balram
Anil Balram

Accentrik Productions specializes in copywriting and script writing on top of video production. Here is the second chapter of an ongoing short story.

2 CAPITULUM

A high work-desk sits in the corner of a dimly lit room, seated at it is a woman, her face half-covered in the room’s darkness; the other half illuminated in the pale blue tint of a screen. “So, he managed to pull it off huh?” the woman says (almost to herself). The screen reveals a person shrouded in darkness and mystery, but the tone of their voice as they talk is soothing. In response to the woman, “While faith is defined as devotion regardless of proof, it is alleviating to be able to report this to our citizens. We advised against trying such an expedition, but not only has he given our nation a reason to promote our faith, he’s also contained what could only be perceived as a threat to mankind”. “Despite it being a threat, is it really a great idea to leave something like that in his hands?” asked the woman. 

Another pale blue screen pops up in the woman’s face with yet another figure shrouded in darkness. A sensual, cool voice responds, “You knew the requirements of the ritual and that he was the only one capable of it. The stipulations of the arte call for him and only him to hold that power.” “We understand your role in this body. Rest assured that your position is not in jeopardy. Could it have been any other way, we would’ve allowed you to perform the rite.” The soothing voice added. The sensual voice continued, “Don’t get jealous just because he has a new toy and you don’t. Plus, you’ll still be able to conduct your experiments; just not as…directly as you may have intended.” The soothing voice chimed in, “And whatever you intend to do is not our concern as long as you find a way to share the rewards with the rest of us. We don’t seek the same things you do.” The woman responded, “I know old man.” “Then let’s be sure to keep playing nice” chimed the sensual voice. 

“So what’s the next move then?” asked the woman. The old man replied, “We will discuss more when he returns from his expedition. We are still unsure as to whether the ritual is foolproof or not.” “That hurts old man!” replied the sensual voice, “We’ll never get anywhere if we can’t trust each other”. The woman added, “You of all people know better than to question her when it comes to these rituals”, her tone shifted in suspicion, “But why do I feel like that last part was directed towards me?” The sensual voice gets coyer as she replies, “Because honey, you’re the young upstart here. You’ve done an amazing job, but strangely you haven’t committed to the mistake making process.” “The error of youth is to believe that intelligence is a substitute for experience…” the soothing old man adds. “And the error of the old is to substitute experience with knowledge” the woman chided. Laughing, the sensual woman says, “With that tongue, you’ll age into a bitter spirit when you should be a fine wine.” “That’s fine”, replied the woman, “Spirits are stronger anyway”. “Ah, to be so young again” lauded the sensual woman. The old man cleared his throat, “Ahem, now if there’s nothing left of this meeting, it’s about time I inform the congregation of this news.” “You do that old man” the woman said snidely. The old man sighed, “Age and treachery always beat youthful exuberance. You’d best hold your tongue.” The screen displaying the old man suddenly blips off, a flash of light going off in the woman’s face. “Anything else your majesty?” the woman asked sarcastically. The sensual woman answered, ”We really do value your expertise honey, but even the strongest of spirits still needs distillation. My council has no issues with protecting themselves so do mind how you play with others” the sensual woman threatened, “After all, the spirit’s development relies on the brewer”. The sensual woman’s screen blips off as well, leaving the woman at the desk in the dark. “Ignorance is bliss I suppose” the woman said to herself.