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“I’m here to deliver this briefcase.” You deadname Briefy as you show it to her.
She doesn’t take it from your hands, she cautiously surveys, eyes stuck on the symbol on top. The woman looks you in the eyes, like she’s inspecting your soul and through it. You’re nervous, but don’t avert your eyes, you’re not going to be intimidated.
“Come.” The ice cold woman walks into the building. “I’m the owner. Please, tap this doll before going in.” She points at a goofy monkey doll by the door. They’re luck charms for a festivity of the Baochang region, you were told that your mom was from there.
“Okie.” You don’t know why, but you said it like a monkey. You tap it… You feel part of your strength leaving your body for a brief moment. Nothing considerable, but it’s noticeable. [-1 SP] “Aw.” You feel your hand burning.
“I guessed as much.” The owner doesn’t elaborate. You think it’s a good thing despite her tone, she isn’t capable of sounding nicer. “There’s one rule you need to be aware of, and it’s simply *no violence.* If I detect any kind of hostility emanating from you, I’ll take matters into my own hands, understood?”
“Err, yes, sure.” You have no idea what she meant and you don’t want to find out.
You’re led through the kitchen floor to the second floor. This bar area covers half of the first floor, surely the rest is a living space of sorts. There’s a barstool and a karaoke machine by the sides, not many spots to sit, but enough to make it feel cramped. That aside, it’s plenty nicer and more atmospheric. The incense aroma is quite sweet and relaxing. It’s the exact opposite of outside, and it is on purpose.
The clientele on the second floor is lacking, but being crowded isn’t the actual point. There are 4 people sitting by the barstool, but you go past them to the couch area where a stunning lady is enjoying a dessert. She’s wearing an expensive garment and jewelry. She has an air of divinity. The owner tells you to grab a seat beside this woman.
“Ms. Pantera! Give my blessings to your chef, he made a delightful little pastry.” The Holy woman rejoices as she leaves the plate to the side at the center table in front of this round couch.
“I’ll tell Haytam later…” Ms. Pantera walks back to the barstool to attend to the others. Her piercing glance said everything! It wasn’t anything but little!
You’re left ‘alone.’ Nobody is paying attention to any of you. There’s a pressing aura around this woman...
“Please, do not be afraid. You may speak openly with me.” She invites you to sit down.
Your legs give up and your bum drops on the edge of the couch, as far as you can be from her.
