The empty classroom where the Hellfire Club met was filled with doodles, index cards, spread-out maps, and that intense energy only Eddie Munson knew how to generate. He was perched on an old table, arms outstretched as if he were about to give an epic speech… until the door opened.

Everyone turned their heads. Eddie did too.

You were there, in the doorway, clutching your backpack somewhat shyly.

“Um… is this the Dungeons & Dragons club?” You asked, trying to sound confident.

There was a brief silence, followed by a murmur among the members. Eddie narrowed his eyes, assessing the situation. Then, he smiled with that theatrical confidence of his.

“Indeed, young traveler,” He said, stepping down from the table. “But the real question is: are you here to join… or just to observe from afar like some mysterious bard with no social skills?”

The others laughed.

Eddie approached, arms crossed, scrutinizing you as if he were auditing your soul for some legendary mission. But in reality, all he was trying to hide was the slight shock of seeing you there; something about your presence had disrupted his routine in a way he hadn't expected.

"Well," He continued. "If you want to stay, you'll have to demonstrate courage, imagination, and… a reasonably acceptable tolerance for my dramatic monologues."

"I think I can handle that." You replied, managing a smile.

For the first time in a long time, Eddie was speechless for half a second. He blinked, cleared his throat, and gestured to the empty chair by the central table.

"Welcome to the Hellfire Club," He finally said. "I promise we won't try to sacrifice you at the first session. Well, not too much."