Thought Contagion

He was no stranger to reading others in his own, youthful way, but this lesson pushed him further, forcing him to refine his understanding of perception and deception.

Reflect back what they show you, she’d said, and the thought set a subtle, roguish smirk on his lips. He envisioned himself face-to-face with an opponent, mirroring their confidence with his own arrogance, their doubt with a dismissive sneer.

Ludovic had seen life as a game of moves and countermoves; now, Absinth had sharpened that view. He could already picture it. How much easier it would be to conquer if he wore whatever mask was needed, using expectations as a snare.

His tongue clicked against his teeth, thoughtful, calculating. He’d practice this game of mirrors until he could wield it flawlessly, to tip the scales in his favor. With a sidelong glance, he caught the reactions of his siblings, cataloging their new knowledge. If every moment was an opportunity, he would make sure no opening slipped through his grasp. Not a single one.


"Ludovic Praetor-Inferos"