The rest of the night passed in a blur of conversations and observations. I met more people, learned more dynamics, got a feel for how this world operated. The Velvet Room was neutral ground, but that didn't mean it was safe. It just meant the violence was more subtle.
Around 2 AM, Rachel found me again.
"Ready to go? We've been here long enough for a first visit."
"Yeah. Let's go."
We made our way to the elevator, and just as the doors were about to close, a hand stopped them.
Selene stepped inside.
"Leaving so soon?" she asked, pressing the button for the ground floor. "The night is still young."
"Early meeting tomorrow," Rachel said smoothly. "But we'll be back."
"I certainly hope so." Selene's attention shifted to me. "What did you think of my establishment, Mr. Cross?"
"Impressive. You've built something unique here."
"Unique?" She seemed amused by the word choice. "I'm usually told 'amazing' or 'incredible.' You chose 'unique.'"
