The early morning light filtered through the blinds of the temporary office, casting angular shadows over piles of financial documents and electronic devices. Marc Delorme had spent the previous days consolidating minor victories, managing media perception, and studying Élian Valcourt's moves. Yet, he knew that individual success could only go so far — to regain the Dumar empire, he needed loyal, capable allies to implement strategy, monitor operations, and safeguard critical information.
> "[SYSTEM ALERT]"
"Task: Recruit key personnel to stabilize operations. Priority: Accounting and transportation. Reward: XP +40; Operational Efficiency +15"
Marc reviewed the candidate dossiers. Simon, the accountant he had previously engaged informally, displayed impeccable credentials: years in corporate finance, an ethical track record, and acute analytical skills. For the driver role, discretion was paramount — the candidate needed to be invisible yet reliable, capable of both logistical support and confidential errands.
> "Lucie," Marc said, tapping the dossier of Simon. "We can't afford miscalculations or hidden agendas. I want him fully vetted before offering a permanent position."
Lucie adjusted her glasses, scanning the files. "I've cross-referenced references, past employers, and public records. Simon's record is clean. A background check shows no irregularities, and he's demonstrated initiative in previous corporate crises. He's exactly what you need."
> "[SYSTEM ALERT]"
"Candidate suitability: High. Proceed to recruitment interview."
Marc prepared a structured interview, focusing not just on skill but on integrity, loyalty, and adaptability. Simon arrived punctually, suit crisp, demeanor professional yet approachable.
> "Mr. Dumar," Simon began, extending a firm handshake. "It's an honor to meet you. I've followed the company's situation closely and am confident I can contribute effectively."
Marc returned the handshake, observing subtleties in expression, posture, and tone. "Simon, the company is in transition. I value precision, honesty, and proactive problem-solving. Tell me: how do you handle situations where financial integrity conflicts with short-term gain?"
Simon paused, steady and unflinching. "I prioritize transparency and accountability. Short-term advantages gained at the expense of accuracy erode trust and long-term stability. My decisions are guided by both ethical standards and operational efficiency."
Marc nodded subtly, impressed. This was not merely competence; it was alignment with the values necessary to restore credibility.
> "[SYSTEM ALERT]"
"Recruitment interview successful. Candidate loyalty and skill verified. XP +30; Strategic Influence +10"
---
Next was the recruitment of the discreet driver. Marc emphasized confidentiality, adaptability, and calm under pressure. The candidate, a man named Lucien, presented a quiet confidence. His résumé included experience in executive transport, logistics, and rapid response situations, though he maintained a low public profile.
> "Discretion and reliability are non-negotiable," Marc stated. "You will operate within sensitive environments. Any breach of trust will compromise both operations and lives. Are you prepared to work under such conditions?"
Lucien met Marc's gaze without hesitation. "I understand. My priority is operational security and smooth execution. Instructions are followed meticulously, and my presence is discreet. Confidentiality is absolute."
Marc allowed himself a small nod. Both candidates would provide the backbone for operational control, allowing him to focus on strategic oversight, media management, and corporate maneuvering.
> "[SYSTEM ALERT]"
"Personnel recruitment complete. Operational capacity increased. XP +50; Team Coordination +20"
---
With the new hires integrated, Marc convened the team to outline immediate objectives. Minor contracts, subsidiary management, and operational monitoring were top priorities. Simon analyzed pending contracts, identifying overlooked clauses and potential vulnerabilities. Lucien optimized logistics, ensuring that confidential movements, meetings, and document transfers could proceed without risk.
> "Every piece of information, every contract, every movement must be documented and secure," Marc instructed. "We are building a foundation. One misstep, and the media, rivals, or internal failures could unravel everything."
Lucie added, "I'll continue legal oversight, ensuring compliance and preemptively addressing potential challenges. Our combined skills create a strategic buffer."
---
The first week with the new team tested their efficiency. Simon identified inconsistencies in accounting statements overlooked by previous administrators. Lucien discreetly facilitated confidential document transfers between offices, ensuring operational continuity. Marc oversaw every step, reinforcing discipline, strategy, and precision.
> "[SYSTEM ALERT]"
"Operational stability enhanced. Minor internal vulnerabilities addressed. XP +40; Strategic Planning +15"
Despite small victories, the team encountered subtle resistance. Some minor employees, skeptical of Marcus Dumar's return, attempted to delay operations or withhold critical information. Marc addressed these behaviors directly but with tact, reinforcing authority without inciting rebellion.
> "We are not here to punish, but to ensure efficiency," he said during a team meeting. "Every action, every report, every contract contributes to a larger objective: restoring credibility and control. Cooperation benefits everyone."
The message was clear. Resistance, when met with structured authority and logical consequences, diminished rapidly.
---
By the end of the week, minor operational milestones had been achieved: overlooked contracts were clarified, discrepancies resolved, and key logistical support secured. The combined efforts of Simon, Lucien, Lucie, and Marc himself reinforced a growing sense of organizational coherence.
> "[SYSTEM ALERT]"
"Operational foundation stabilized. Team cohesion improving. XP +60; Strategic Influence +25"
Marc allowed himself a moment of reflection, surveying the city from the office window. Every decision, every recruitment, every minor victory was a strategic step in regaining supremacy. The path ahead remained long and fraught with challenges, but the team he was assembling could execute complex maneuvers, counter media crises, and anticipate rival interventions.
> "Élian Valcourt is not yet a direct threat," Marc murmured, eyes sharp. "But every move we make will intersect with his influence. Precision, loyalty, and strategy are essential. We cannot falter."
---
That night, Marc reviewed operational data, verifying that all minor contracts were secured, and that logistical channels were protected from exposure. Lucien ensured secure document transfers while Simon prepared detailed reports for future strategy sessions. Lucie conducted legal audits, identifying potential vulnerabilities before they became liabilities.
> "[SYSTEM ALERT]"
"Recruitment and operational stabilization successful. Minor victories compound strategic influence. Countdown: 354 days remaining. Prepare for next tasks: first covert operations to reclaim subsidiaries and monitor rival activity."
Marc's reflection on the day emphasized a fundamental truth: talent, when precisely aligned with strategy and ethical conduct, was a force multiplier. Every individual, every minor operational victory, and every subtle maneuver contributed to a larger tapestry of resurgence.
The night settled over the city, quiet yet charged with unseen activity. Marcus Dumar's empire was not yet restored, but the foundation was secure, the team loyal, and the first layer of operational control firmly in place.