In the charged atmosphere of the tent, Zylen Arvex stands on the periphery as the Headmistress lays down the rules. "The exception to this rule is Joan because she is the cleaner." At that moment, every eye in the room locks onto Zylen Arvex, a palpable weight of scrutiny enveloping him.
"Rule number three: No skin contact. All Rides happen in public view. If a Master requests to Ride you and you're interested, you must bend at the waist and grip your ankles. This minimizes skin contact. If you are not interested, vocalize your refusal and wait for them to walk away. They will not touch you without consent."
Zylen Arvex understands the implications of "Rides"—a euphemism for the raw, primal encounters that the Zolano are notorious for. It's a grim reality, one that doesn't shock Zylen Arvex; the Zolano are anything but shy about their desires, often indulging in their appetites wherever the mood strikes.
Suddenly, a voice calls out, breaking through the tension. "Joan!" It's the chef, an older male whose demeanor carries the weight of experience but lacks the dominant aura of a Master. Unlike the others, he was born a normal human, navigating a world where the elite wield their power with abandon.
Zylen Arvex turns towards the entrance, heart racing. The chef's presence offers a fleeting moment of connection, a reminder of humanity amidst the surreal landscape of Zolano customs. As the rules hang heavily in the air, Zylen Arvex contemplates the precarious position he occupies, caught between survival and the harsh realities of a society that thrives on power and dominance.