Lord Asriel had always detested inefficiency, in anything and everyone. He felt his anger surge as he watched Mr Coulter wasting time, looking at inexpensive jewellery in the market square, when he should be working. Asriel growled low in his throat and walked determinedly away, willing himself to calm down.

Asriel had always been a self sufficient, self-made man. Always acting to further his career and his prospects; crushing everything in his path. No matter the consequences. This time was different, Marisa was involved. He shook his head firmly, trying to shake away the thought. He had no time to think about her, he would not show any weakness.

A small and thin boy dressed in dirty, torn clothes approached him; Asriel looked down as the boy tugged at his shirt. 'Sir, please, can you spare any change?'

'Change boy? Do you think I got were I am giving peasants and tramps money?' He hated beggars, urchins and bums. He shook his arm harshly, knocking the small boy over. He continued to walk and never looked back.

'As pleasant as ever, I see, Asriel?' A soft, seductive voice chimed behind him. He would know that voice anywhere.

'As you see Marisa. I detest such people. They are below you and I in every way.' Asriel turned slowly and faced her. 'I see your pathetic excuse of a husband is wasting everyone's valuable time again.'

'I will not stand for you talking about Mr Coulter in that way. You think you can intimidate everyone Asriel, but you should learn you have little effect on me.' She held his stare, deep blue penetrating eyes boring into hers. She didn't falter or shift her feet.

He looked at her, beautiful and perfect. Black hair curled perfectly, to precision. She was tall for a woman, up to his shoulder and had a perfect figure. Slim with curves in all the right places, and she knew exactly how to show them off. He hated his weakness. 'Pleasantries aside, I am a busy man and cannot afford to waste time talking to you.'

'Naturally. Goodbye.' She turned on her heel and walked directly into a crowd. Asriel watched her enticing walk, until she was engulfed by the crowd.

'Damn that woman to hell!' Asriel's mood had just taken a distinct turn for the worse. 'Salmaria. Come.'

Asriel walked through the crowd, using his physical advantage to push people out of his path, barely noticing as he sent a woman flying backwards. He had things to do, important things that needn't be sidetracked by a woman. As the sea of people parted to a sea of green Asriel stopped. He had reached his own grounds. Large and expansive, he owned most of Oxford.

His house stood tall and proud and reflected his personality exactly. Strong and powerful the house had stood, undamaged for centuries. It emanated grandeur and power. He opened the door and walked directly to his study.