The clock struck midnight. The city's neon skyline glowed in the distance as Ochieng stepped out of his sleek black Maserati with custom "EMRLD 01" plates. The Jade Dragon Hotel stood before him—one of the most exclusive hotels in the province, a place where power, money, and secrets intertwined.
Dressed in a black custom-tailored suit, he adjusted his cufflinks before entering.
The lobby was grand—chandeliers hung from the ceiling, golden dragons coiled around the pillars, and the scent of rare orchids lingered in the air. The staff bowed respectfully as he walked past, not daring to question his presence.
Suite 888.
A private elevator took him to the top floor. As the doors opened, a woman stood waiting.
Xiao Lian.
Dressed in a silk qipao with golden embroidery, her beauty was both elegant and deadly. Her icy gaze scanned him before she stepped aside, gesturing him inside.
"You came alone." She observed.
Ochieng smirked. "Should I have brought an army?"
Xiao Lian said nothing, leading him inside.
The suite was lavish—floor-to-ceiling windows overlooked the city, a grand piano sat in the corner, and a table was set with expensive wine.
Lucas Zhao sat at the head of the table, sipping whiskey.
"Welcome." His voice was calm, but the sharpness in his eyes was unmistakable.
Ochieng took a seat opposite him, leaning back. "I assume you didn't call me here for a casual drink?"
Lucas chuckled. "Straight to the point. I like that." He placed his glass down. "I want to know who you really are."
Silence.
Ochieng's smirk didn't falter. "What do you think?"
Lucas exhaled, eyes narrowing. "You walk like a king, yet pretend to be a commoner. People whisper your name, but no one knows your past." He leaned forward. "I've ruled these streets for years, yet something tells me… I've never met someone like you."
Xiao Lian's gaze flickered between them, sensing the tension.
Ochieng tapped his fingers against the table. "You called me here for that?" He chuckled. "Curiosity can be dangerous, Zhao."
Lucas smirked. "So can secrets."
The air was thick with unspoken challenges.
Before anyone could speak further, the door burst open.
A man in a black leather jacket rushed in, face pale.
"Boss! The Dragon Society is making a move. They've surrounded the hotel!"
Lucas and Xiao Lian shot up.
Ochieng remained seated, swirling the wine in his glass.
"Well then," he murmured, a glint in his eyes. "Shall we have some fun?"