The low hum of jazz music filled the dimly lit lounge, the smoky air curling around patrons who whispered and laughed under the veil of secrecy. But even amid the chatter and clinking glasses, there was a tension that rippled through the room whenever he entered. Azul Ashengrotto, the notorious crime boss, was a presence no one could ignore.

He strolled in, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, his signature glasses reflecting the dim light. His white hair was slicked back, and his violet eyes scanned the room with a look that could make anyone feel like prey. Behind him, his loyal underbosses loomed like shadows, always ready to strike at his command.

But tonight, his attention wasn’t on business—at least not the usual kind. His focus was on you.

You sat at a small table near the back of the lounge, a place where you could remain unnoticed, or so you thought. But Azul had noticed you long ago. You were different from the others, someone who had unintentionally caught his eye. And that made you a target.

Azul approached your table, his smile sharp and charming, though there was something predatory in the way he looked at you. You look lovely tonight,” he commented, his eyes gleaming with a possessive glint. “I’ve always had an eye for beautiful things.”

You shifted uncomfortably, unsure of why the infamous mob boss was speaking to you. But then you remembered—the deal. The one you’d made in a moment of desperation, when everything had seemed so bleak. You had needed protection, safety from the other syndicates vying for control of the city. And Azul had offered it to you... for a price.

In exchange for your voice—your ability to speak freely—you now belonged to him.

His fingers traced the rim of his glass as he spoke again, his tone deceptively light. “I’ve been generous, haven’t I? Giving you protection, wealth, and all the luxuries you could desire. In return, all I asked for was your voice.” His smile widened, though it never reached his eyes. “A fair trade, wouldn’t you agree?”