Marius "Dream of Thebes"/Rewards
Scene 1: Studio
The normally chaotic studio falls silent. Everyone stops whatever work they were doing.
A model is causing a scene at a critical segment of the shoot... You secretly raise your head, only to see Marius frowning next to you.
You: Watch your expression, everyone's a bit tense.
Marius places a hand to his forehead, shooting you a sudden smile.
Marius: You got me. Have you been sneaking glances at me the entire time?
You: No. I just don't want your temper getting in the way of work.
Marius: Don't worry, I'm not mad. I'm just thinking about what to do about this.
Marius: I should take responsibility for this since I did choose the model myself.
You: ...
You mean to reassure Marius to not be mad at the model, but it somehow ended up with him comforting you.
You: This is not entirely your fault either, you must have had your reasons for doing this.
The position of the lead model at Pax's fashion week was highly coveted, and there were countless top-tier models among the candidates.
Yet... Marius went against all objections and insisted on selecting a model that no one had ever heard of.
You: Is there some kind of misunderstanding? This fashion show is probably the best opportunity he's gonna get.
You still cannot comprehend the model's behavior.
Marius: I'm not sure. But, purposely being late is a common way the entertainment industry uses to play their cards.
Marius shakes his head as he looks outside the studio, his expression returning to normal.
Marius: Okay, no need to wait. Choose someone else we've shortlisted and tell the model's agent that we're going to terminate the contract.
You: Terminate contract... Wait, do you mean with the agent or the model?
Marius: You think about it. What did I tell you to prepare for me yesterday?
He turns around to speak with his assistant then looks back at you.
Marius: Did you bring the papers?
You: I did...
You received a call from Marius yesterday, asking you to prepare a termination of management agreement.
Something had felt off, but you didn't think too much about it back then. It is only now that you realize.
You: Marius, shouldn't you terminate the contract with the model and not the agency for a situation like this?
After hearing what you said, Marius smiles but does not say anything.
Marius: It's okay, just do as I say. I'll explain to you later.
You: You don't look the least bit worried about it affecting your publicity. Seems like I've been worrying for nothing.
Marius: Who says I'm not worried? I'm just confident that I've got this.
Marius' assistant hands him a tablet that contains a list of backup models and begins to browse.
However, the smile on his face disappears. The further down the list he went, the more frustrated he looked.
You: What's wrong? You looked like you had a grand plan just moments ago.
Marius: Nothing... Just, none of them seem right.
You: (Doesn't seem right? None of the replacements qualify?)
You take the tablet from Marius. Every name you see on the list have numerous awards attached to them...
You: Not even Ricardo? He just won first place in a model contest.
You have seen glimpses of this model on TV before. You remember his name, but not what he looks like.
A replacement has to be selected in this situation, even if it means that you have to convince Marius to lower his standards.
Marius: You think he's good?
You don't know why, but you seem to sense a bit of unwillingness from Marius' tone.
You: Not exactly, but I mean he did win first place.
You: I only saw him a few times on TV. but I don't remember exactly what he looks like.
Marius seems to cheer up slightly after your second comment.
Marius: Then... What do you think of me?
You: No one's as handsome as you. You're born to be a model, so everyone pales in comparison to you!
Marius: Now we're talking.
You: He's pretty good, and he's been getting lots of attention from the girls on the internet recently.
Marius: I get lots of attention too, that's not good enough
... Point well made.
You: He... He's very gentlemanly, has a good physique, and knows how to pose.
You try hard to recall the internet comments as you stumble through your speech.
Marius: Why do I feel like you're talking about me?
Seeing the smug look on his face, you can't help but want to tease him further.
You: Why don't you try then?
You put it out casually, not expecting everyone to actually lapse into a deathly silence.
You: Hahaha, I'm just kidding.
Photographer: Actually, this pharaoh-themed collection fits Mr. von Hagen really well... It'll be great if we can shoot him in it.
The photographer in a corner whispers, and the entire studio fills with low murmuring shortly after.
Marius: I could... be the model for this one.
You: Huh?
His unexpected response out of the blue catches you off guard.
Marius: (Name), would you like to see me model? If you do, then I don't mind giving you my first photoshoot debut.
There it is again! That insatiable tone of his!
You: I don't...
Scene 1: Studio
Before you could turn him down, all the staff in the studio begin staring at you hopefully, eyes brimming with expectation.
Being surrounded by such powerful yearnings, you had no choice but to change your mind.
You: Yeah, I do. I really, really want to see you modeling.
Marius: Alright, wait right here, I'll go get changed.
The publicity manager bursts into laughter after Marius gives him a hard stare.
You: I guess looks are everything in the fashion world.
It is a relief to see the studio bustling and back to normal.
Who would've guessed that this place, dead silent just moments ago, would be bustling with life now?
You: Well, if Marius is to be the model, a hundred back-to-back poses shouldn't be much of a challenge for him.
Marius: What are you secretly smiling about over there?
Marius' voice suddenly appears from behind, startling you.
You: Oh nothing, didn't you go change? Why aren't you changed?
Marius: I tried it on and the size wasn't right. They're using the backup clothes to make adjustments.
You: Backup? Why not just make adjustments on the original?
Marius: About that... erm...
He's not being straightforward about it, something's up!
Just as you are about to press further, an argument sparks outside the studio.
Scene 2: Corridor
You both go to the corridor outside the studio, seeing a staff member trying in vain to explain something to another person.
Staff: I'm sorry, but we're shooting right now, only authorized personnel are allowed to enter.
???: I'm the agent of the lead model for the fashion show. We were delayed on the road, that's why we're late.
Modeling Agent: I heard about the contract termination upon arrival. There must be a misunderstanding. Can you ask Mr. von Hagen if he has a moment to spare?
Marius: A misunderstanding? Why haven't I heard anything about this?
Modeling Agent: Mr. von Hagen...!!
You: Eh...?
You: (... Isn't this the guy I met on the way to Pax?)
Flashback
Modeling Agent: Listen, this is your time to prove what you're worth...
Modeling Agent: It's fine being a little late, the point is to make them wait. That way, they can see your value.
Present
This agent had been on the phone when you ran into him, so you didn't pay much attention to his conversation.
You: (Marius was right, they were trying to play their cards right by being purposefully late...)
After recognizing you, the agent suddenly has difficulty maintaining the flattering smile on his face.
You tug lightly on Marius' shirt, wanting to tell him about the agent. Marius responds by waving back.
Marius: What's going on? You're staring an awful lot. Are you trying to poach one of my staff members?
Marius lets out a cold laugh.
Modeling Agent: No no no, it's purely my own curiosity. The people that you keep around you must be phenomenal...
Although you're still unsure of Marius' intentions, playing along with him is always fail-safe.
You put away your suspicions and put on a winning smile for the modeling agent in front of you.
You: I am an attorney from Themis Law Firm. I am in charge of the legal issues of the fashion week event.
Modeling Agent: Oh I see, Themis Law Firm...l know it very well by reputation!
Marius: What, you know her?
Modeling Agent: No, I don't. I've just been to this law firm before, and she looks a little familiar.
Marius: Oh? What a coincidence.
Marius looks at you and shakes his head lightly as if he was telling you not to expose the agent's lie.
You: Yeah, what a coincidence...
The agent clears his throat, trying to clear up the awkward atmosphere.
Modeling Agent: Mr. von Hagen, we got here as fast as we could, only to be notified of the contract's termination. We can talk it out if there's been a misunderstanding...
Modeling Agent: We were late and held everyone up, but it's all to prepare for this photoshoot... Sigh... it's our fault. I really do apologize.
Marius: There's no need for that. Where's the model? I'd like to see what you guys prepared.
Scene 1: Corridor
After getting Marius' "approval," the manager went and brought the model.
But...
You: This pharaoh makeup is... quite special.
The model's face is covered in gold, paired with thick dark eyebrows and eyeliners, but no one can make out his features...
Modeling Agent: What happened to your makeup!? It was just fine!!
The agent seems to be dumbfounded as well.
Model: The makeup artist saw the photoshoot theme and thought my makeup wasn't fitting enough, so she redid it...
Modeling Agent: And you let her do whatever she wanted!? Don't you know how to say no!?
Model: I thought it was your idea... I thought you had her redo it for me...
He's quite tall and muscular but yet, he is literally drooping when talking to his agent.
Marius: This is what you especially prepared?
Modeling Agent: I'm so, so sorry, Mr. von Hagen, I'll make sure the makeup artist gets a piece of my mind!
Modeling Agent: We really did prepare for this photoshoot, and we weren't deliberately late... Please give us another chance!
You look at Marius, unsure of how he'll respond to this.
Marius: Sure, I'll give you another chance.
The agent is overjoyed after hearing that Marius was willing to give them another chance, happily agreeing to him.
Marius: However...
Marius: Due to not wanting to delay the shoot, we've already found a new model.
Modeling Agent: You mean...?
Marius: Take your model to the dressing room to get changed. We'll have our new model compete with yours. The winner will be the lead model of the fashion week.
Watching the agent and model quickly rushing into the studio, you quietly let out a sigh.
You: You're too nice, why would you give someone with such little contract ethic a second chance?
You: But their expressions will definitely be hilarious once they find out that you're the other model.
Marius waggles his eyebrows at you.
Marius: Let's put the modeling stuff aside first. Have you met that agent before?
You: Oh about that...
You tell Marius everything regarding your encounter with the agent, including the phone conversation.
You: I wanted to warn you earlier, but you...
Marius: Hmm... It's about the same as what I was expecting. Make sure you don't have any more contact with him.
You: Why? I'm not a model, I won't have any dealings with him.
Marius: I stopped you because these celebrity agents usually have a number of media resources.
Marius: If I terminated his contract now, he will most definitely hate on you. Plus... you and l are close...
Marius: I'm afraid he'll buy the media over and make a scene. I personally don't mind this, but it will affect you too.
Marius: Better to give him a chance. It's not too late to terminate the contract after they lose anyway. That way, he won't be prejudiced towards you.
You: ...
So Marius did all that, just to protect you...
Seeing your astonished expression, Marius begins to laugh.
Marius: What is it? You have a really surprised look on your face. Are you worried I won't win?
A heart full of gratitude, shattered by his frivolous tone. You can't help but to roll your eyes at him.
You: You better go get changed first!
Scene 2: Studio
After entering the studio, the staff swarms him, shepherding him to get changed.
You: ...
It's the first time you've seen anything like it, and it proves to be quite an interesting sight.
Not long after Marius goes into the makeup room, his assistant pushes a huge cloth-covered cage into the studio.
Just as you are guessing what is in the cage, you hear the model's agent's voice from across the studio.
Modeling Agent: Mr. von Hagen? Erm... Where's Mr. von Hagen?
The model is behind him. His handsome figure and deep-set brows can now be seen after having taken off the ridiculous makeup, perfectly fitting in with the theme.
But, as good-looking as he is... you feel like something is missing.
You: ...
The expression on your face probably helped inflate his confidence. He looks around, crowing triumphantly.
Modeling Agent: Where's the other model you guys hired? This changing speed won't do, and the catwalk...
Marius: Something wrong with my changing speed? I was simply trying to get into the right mindset for a photoshoot.
Marius appears from the shadows and walks straight onto the set in the studio.
His assistant opens the cage and a pharaoh hound slowly steps out. It made its way towards Marius, sitting by his feet without any hesitation.
You: ...
Perhaps he‘d rushed to change, for he walked out of the room with his shirt wide open, despite how his clothes should have been as complicated as his counterpart.
But even so... No one could ignore the haughty pride and confidence that radiated off his being.
It was then, that you suddenly realize just what the other model was missing.
Marius: Come here.
He calls for you gently and holds up his hand.
The projected flames dance behind Marius and flicker alongside the gold dust on the murals and decorations.
Through his eyes, you feel as if you've traveled across millenniums. Flying over the beautiful Nile to reunite with your beloved Amon.
Marius: The sun rises every day, just for you...
Oaths engraved in stone monuments, lasting for thousands of years, yet the romance within remains unchanged.
Marius: My love for you is the one and only.
Camera shutters continue to go off. You knew that he was simply getting into his role, but your heart unwittingly raced.
You: ...
His purple eyes quietly gaze upon you, making you feel as if you were in the great palace of Pi-Ramesses.
The king sits on the throne, silently conveying his overwhelming love for you through his passionate gaze.
Whether it be the past, present, or future; only one person can stand with him as an equal, forever cherished in his heart.
Scene 1: Studio
Marius stands up as you put your hand into his palm. He takes your hand and walks you out of the shooting area.
You: Wha... what's wrong?
His sudden action makes you realize how flirtatiously the two of you were holding hands.
But it will be too obvious if you take back your hand right now.
Marius: My eye...
You snap out of your reverie when you hear the tinge of pain in his voice.
You: Don't move, let me take a look!
Marius: Okay, will this help?
He bends down slightly, putting the two of you in very close proximity once more, catching you off guard.
An upward brow and a high nose... He would be more charming if he weren't frowning and keeping his left eye tightly shut.
You: Stop... stop moving. Are you able to open your left eye?
Marius: I don't think so, it still hurts.
You gently touch his left eye. There isn't any swelling nor anything wrong with it.
You: ...
Seeing the sweat on his forehead and the heat coming out of the studio lights...
You: Your sweat probably carried the makeup into your eye. I'll get someone to take care of it for you.
Marius: No, don't leave. That's not necessary. You can... you can just blow into my eyes and it'll be fine.
You: Really?
Marius puts on an innocent expression and nods his head. He then tilts his body and moves even closer to you.
His breath gently brushes your cheeks. It's a little ticklish.
You carefully blow into his left eye. It suddenly peers open, letting you clearly see the slight wetness of his alluring purple eyes.
You: ... You're a little too close.
Marius: So what? Isn't it much more convenient this way?
Marius: Yea... it feels much better now. One more time should do.
There is a faint smile playing at his lips that contradicted the slight distress in his voice.
You: You're fine as long as you can open your eye... They're still waiting for you.
You point towards the model and his agent who were standing on the other end.
The agent kept his mouth tightly sealed from the very moment Marius made his appearance.
Marius: Your turn.
Modeling Agent: Ahem, I don't think we need to continue with the competition. Even the hunting hound has been subdued by your aura...
You: ...
Did he misunderstand because he didn't see Marius's assistant bringing the hound here?
Well, it's better that way, and also helps save a lot of trouble.
Marius: Are you forfeiting?
Modeling Agent: Yes, of course. We are already more than grateful for having been given a second chance!
Modeling Agent: Do you think... we can sign an ordinary contract? You probably will need people for the catwalk right? Even backup works.
Looks like he's still not giving up, and is trying to see what other chances he can get from this.
Marius: No, that's not necessary. I don't plan on starting a modeling career. Giovanni will still be Pax's lead model.
You: ...?
Giovanni? Is that the model's name? And what exactly does Marius mean by that?
Modeling Agent: You're serious right!? Thank you so much!!
After seeing the excited expression on the agent's face, Marius began to speak again.
Marius: Amateurs will always make mistakes, and I don't mind that. However, I am only asking Giovanni to stay.
The agent is shocked when he hears what Marius said.
Marius: I am extremely uncomfortable with your attitude, as his agent, in this partnership.
Marius: I will give you 2 choices. Terminate your agreement with Giovanni, or Pax will terminate all cooperation with your company.
You finally understand what Marius meant.
Marius: Of course, you can also choose neither. Then, I'll have my assistant contact your boss directly and let him be the one to decide.
Screwing up the opportunity to work with Pax is a grave loss for any company. Hence, the company will replace him even if he chooses not to.
Marius' assistant hands you the prepared termination of management agreement. You hand it to Giovanni.
You: If there are no objections, please sign on the last page.
Modeling Agent: Umm... can we wait till the end of the photoshoot? Giovanni is new, he won't be able to make it without me.
Giovanni: I am still aware of how my partnership with them is like. I'll sign it.
Giovanni signs the contract and passes it to the agent. The agent unwillingly signs before dejectedly leaving.
You: (That agent is going to have a hard time with his career in the future... He brought this on himself.)
Marius: Alright, then it is settled.
He turns and looks at the model standing in the corner, waving to him.
Giovanni: Thank you.
Marius: Not a problem. You better give this shoot your all after all this trouble just to help you swap agents.
Giovanni: Of course!
Swap agents? Is that why he...
Flashback
You: Marius, shouldn't you terminate the contract with the model and not the agency for a situation like this?
Marius: It's okay, just do as I say. I'll explain to you later.
Present
What Marius said begins to circle in your head.
You: Marius... You know each other? This was planned all along?
You: Someone from your sister company told me that you guys are going to Egypt for team building?
Marius: Yea, I think so.
Marius: Trips abroad is a benefit shared among all sister companies under the group.
You: All the sister companies???
You: The rich really do live in a different world...
Marius: Haha, you're exaggerating.
You: *sob*...
You: That has nothing to do with me... I love my job... I love my job...
Marius: Work hard. Play hard.
Marius: Hmm, now I want to go myself.
You: Mr. von Hagen! Snap out of it and take a look at your schedule!
Marius: You're terrible for shattering my fantasizing about a vacation like that.
You: Me too... Wait, no I don't!
Marius: Hahaha, you have to face your true self!
Marius: They're going to Egypt though... I've always wanted to go.
You: Why Egypt? Because it's one of the ancient civilizations?
Marius: Yea, the pyramids, temples, and Thebes ruins. I want to see it all.
You: You've never been to Egypt? I figured you would have gone to all the tourist hot spots already.
Marius: You know how busy I get. There's a lot of places I haven't been.
Marius: That does it! I'm gonna go look up the best tourist routes to take in Egypt.
You: I want to go as well now!
You: It's all your fault for making me not want to work!
Marius: Haha, my plan worked!
You: Good luck with that! I'm going back to work!
Marius: Wait! I was gonna share it with you once I found it!
Marius: When you finish what you're working on, take a few days off and I'll take you on a road trip. How about it?
Marius: The CEO will accompany you on vacation. The amenities will be much better than what they get on the team building trip. You just wait!
