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Ezra approached the dais, his movements controlled and respectful. He knew better than to show any hint of hesitation or fear. As he came to a stop a few paces from the throne, Count Griffin\'s grating voice echoed through the room.

"Ezra Matten, welcome. You have done an excellent job managing the Southside," Griffin said, his usuual tone of amusement devoid of emotion yet carrying a weight of authority.

"Thank you, Count Griffin," Ezra replied, bowing his head slightly. "It has been an honor to serve under your guidance."

"My guidance? We both know that was all you." Griffin chuckled as his eyes, barely visible in the shadows, seemed to bore into Ezra. The count hummed for a moment before proceeding. "I am aware of your recent efforts to partner with Mr. Hudson of TransitLink. It\'s quite the commendable initiative.

Transportation services in Southside will greatly enhance our control and influence in the area."

Ezra felt a flicker of surprise but maintained his composure. Griffin knows of the deal? How? He said \'our control.\' He\'s trying to tie Southside to him somehow. Was the assassination attempt really the new count\'s test?

The thoughts flickered rapidly in his mind but he answered, his expression neutral. "Yes, Count. I believe it will strengthen our position and bring more stability to Southside."

Griffin\'s mechanical breathing paused momentarily, a sign of his consideration. "Mr. Hudson is an old acquaintance of mine. I have spoken with him and convinced him to partner with your Ascendant Capital. He is eager to collaborate."

Ezra inclined his head again, genuinely grateful but also wary of the Count\'s intentions. "Thank you, Count Griffin. Your support means a great deal. This partnership will undoubtedly benefit our operations."

The Count leaned forward slightly, the movement causing the light of his eyes to cast a brief, blinding reflection. "Indeed. And as a reward for your diligence, I offer you an opportunity for expansion into my territory."

"Your work has proven your capability, and I believe you are ready for greater responsibilities. Of course the expansion would be a separate division from Ascendant Capital. Something separate from the Black Spider gang. Maybe Olivia Wild would be put over that division. Lightning Transports. Has a nice ring to it, don\'t you think?"

Ezra\'s mind raced. The offer was enticing, but he could sense the underlying motive. Griffin was attempting to bind him more tightly to his service, to ensure his loyalty. Not just that. Lightning Transports could be a way to take resources from Ascendant Capital and the Black Spider gang. And Griffin wasn\'t really asking.

The division would be created, whether Ezra liked it or not.

"I am honored by your offer, Count Griffin. Expanding into your territory would be a significant step for the Matten Coven."

Griffin\'s mechanical voice carried a hint of satisfaction. "Excellent. We shall discuss the specifics of the expansion in due time. For now, focus on solidifying your partnership with Mr. Hudson. I expect great things from this endeavor."

Ezra nodded, understanding the implicit command. "I will ensure the partnership is successful, Count. Your trust in me will not be misplaced."

Griffin leaned back, his breathing resuming its steady rhythm. "You may go, Ezra. Continue your work with the dedication you have shown thus far."

Ezra bowed slightly before turning and leaving the throne room. As he walked back through the grand hallways, his thoughts were on the offer.

The Count\'s offer of expansion was a significant opportunity, but it also came with strings attached. Griffin\'s manipulation was clear, and Ezra knew he would need to tread carefully.

Once outside the sanctuary, Ezra took a deep breath, the cool night air helping to clear his mind. The partnership with Mr. Hudson was a crucial step forward, and now, with the Count\'s backing, it seemed more certain than ever. But he couldn\'t afford to let his guard down. Griffin\'s interest in his activities meant that he would be watched more closely than ever.

**********

Upon reaching his office, he found Olivia waiting for him. She looked up from the documents spread across his desk, her expression one of anticipation. "How did it go?" she asked.

Ezra sat down, taking a moment to collect his thoughts. "The Count is pleased with our management of Southside," he began, a hint of frustration in his voice. "He\'s somehow aware of our efforts to partner with Mr. Hudson and has already spoken to him on our behalf. The partnership is secured."

Olivia\'s eyes widened slightly. "Shit"

"Yes." Ezra agreed. "Shit. It sounds like excellent news on the surface. After all, Mr. Hudson\'s involvement will give us a significant advantage. But we all know what this means."

Olivia sighed. "He\'s increasing your debt to him. When he does call on that favor we\'re owing him, it\'ll be pretty heavy. I don\'t like this."

Ezra nodded, leaning back in his chair. "There\'s more. The Count has offered us the chance to expand the transport deal into his territory. Under a new company with you as the head."

Olivia\'s brows knitted together in bitter acknowledgement. "Fuck. He\'s trying to tighten his grip on us."

"Exactly," Ezra agreed. "We need to be cautious. This expansion would definitely be happening and it would bring great benefits, but it would also ties us closer to Griffin. We\'ll have to navigate this carefully."

Olivia nodded, understanding the delicate balance they needed to maintain. "One small mistep can mean our destruction."

"Precisely. Let\'s start by focusing on the partnership with Mr. Hudson. Once that\'s firmly in place, we can begin exploring the expansion and how we\'ll balance that."

Olivia stood, ready to leave. "I\'ll begin the preparations immediately. We should also consider reinforcing our current positions to ensure we\'re not spread too thin."

Ezra nodded. "Do it. And keep an eye on any movements from Griffin\'s side. We can\'t afford any surprises."