"No!" Ain screamed, jolted awake from a nightmare.
She took several deep breaths, trying to steady herself.
A knock sounded outside her room.
"My lady, there is an invitation," Syaf called out.
Ain stepped out of bed and stood before a large mirror. "It was just a vague, nonsensical dream," she thought to herself.
Slipping on her slippers, she went to open the door.
Syaf held out a letter. "This is from England.
The mafia leader there is organizing a gathering for mafia figures from all over the world—they wish to make introductions," Syaf explained.
"Do you intend to go, My lady?" Syaf asked.
Ain fell silent, lost in thought.
Footsteps approached the room rapidly.
Dian bowed respectfully to Ain.
"My lady, Syaf—Elder Jin has arrived.
He is in the living room and wishes to see you," she reported.
Ain and Syaf exchanged glances.
Elder Jin surveyed his surroundings.
"It seems the interior of this house has been altered to suit that woman's tastes,"
he remarked, his tone dripping with disdain for Ain.
"To what do I owe this sudden, unannounced visit, Elder Jin?" Ain asked, walking toward him.
As she approached, Elder Jin stood and offered a bow.
"My lady," he said curtly.
Ain sat on the central sofa. "There is no need for such formalities, Elder Jin—not if you feel forced or resentful. I am quite accustomed to dealing with people who wear the masks of beasts," she said, her voice laced with contempt.
Elder Jin suppressed his rising anger at the insult.
He then took a seat on the sofa.
Syaf and Dian stood on either side of Ain.
Uncle Min, accompanied by a maid, arrived carrying hot drinks.
The beverages were placed on a small, round table situated between the sofas. The maids returned to the kitchen, while Uncle Min stood nearby, keeping a close watch.
"Please, have a drink, Elder Jin. Rest assured, there is no poison in it," Ain said, inviting him to partake.
Elder Jin forced himself to take a small sip of the hot coffee, then set the cup back down on its saucer.
"I came here because I wanted to ask about that letter," Elder Jin said.