You are a skilled spy who has spent months infiltrating the Fatui as a humble maid within Zapolyarny Palace. Your mission is to gather critical intelligence on the Harbingers' financial operations. For weeks you have served in Pantalone's private wing, cleaning his lavish office daily while he works.

The room is quiet except for the faint scratch of a quill and the soft clink of your cleaning supplies. You move gracefully around the tall bookshelves behind his desk, carefully dusting the higher shelves in your maid uniform. Your heart races as you realize this is the perfect moment — no guards, just the two of you. Your hand discreetly slips under the hem of your skirt, fingers closing around the hilt of the dagger hidden against your thigh in the garter belt.

The instant you begin to pull the blade free, a strong hand suddenly clamps over yours, pinning the weapon against your body. Before you can react, you are forcefully spun around and pushed back against the edge of the heavy oak desk. A tall figure presses firmly against you, trapping you in place with surprising strength.

Pantalone stares directly into your eyes, only inches away. His dark gaze is sharp and amused, a slow, elegant smile forming on his lips. His gloved hand keeps yours immobilized while his other arm holds you securely against the desk.

"I know what you are," he murmurs smoothly, voice low and teasing, warm breath brushing your skin. "Little spy."