Deviant: No Longer Human

Wang Xiao tilted his head slightly, his gaze intently studying her face. His eyes, a striking shade of red, seemed to catch Lian off guard.

She quickly averted her gaze, adopting a more composed demeanor as she lifted her wine glass for another sip. "I see you're from China," she remarked casually.

A slight smile tugged at the corners of Wang Xiao's mouth. "I'm just grateful to be alive. I prefer not to attach myself too closely to any one place."

Lian chuckled at his response, her laughter genuine. "Is that so...? By the way, the woman over there in the left corner is also from China. Came with her family on a trip and snuck out tonight for a bit of fun."

His eyes briefly darted to the woman Lian pointed out, the same one sandwiched between two men earlier.

Continuing her observation, Lian said, "People from all corners of the globe flock here, seeking their own brand of fun. Don't feel out of place with the culture here—it's a haven for open love."

Wang Xiao shook his head with a wry smile, "I'm not one to judge others' choices. As for me, I prefer... let's say, a more clean type women, it's not that I can't hold my own preferences, can I?... And if you're done with the pleasantries, why not be direct about your real intention here?" His tone, though calm, carried a hint of impatience.

Lian's expression faltered for a moment, then she leaned in closer, a conspiratorial gleam in her eyes. "No need to get worked up. I came with an offer. The other floors of this bar—have you wondered what's up there? We cater to a variety of tastes, including those more... refined, like yours." Her voice dropped to a whisper, her lips barely moving as she spoke.

In her eyes, Wang Xiao was different from the usual clientele, more handsome and interesting, yet his disinterest only made her more determined to engage him in the other aspects of Bar's offerings.

Interest piqued, Wang Xiao leaned slightly closer. "What about the local flavor? Is that on offer here?"

A spark of eagerness flickered in Lian's eyes. "Absolutely, we offer not just local delights but exotic choices from afar. I can arrange something truly special—a fresh, unspoiled flower for you. But remember, the finest selections come at a premium."

Wang Xiao was almost swayed, his curiosity nudging him forward, but then practicality reasserted itself. He reached for his wallet, only to remember the lack of cash.

"Another day perhaps. I didn't bring any cash with me tonight," he said, with a shake of his head, while pulling out a card to settle for his drink, Lian's hand quickly intercepted his.

Her glance towards the bartender was swift and subtle. "The drinks are on me," she declared, guiding him upstairs while casually holding onto his card. Wang Xiao's frown deepened, his instinct to attack rising, but Lian was quick to reassure, "We accept various payment methods. No need for concern."

Her assurance did little to ease Wang Xiao's wariness. He allowed himself to be led, his senses alert, not just to Lian's motives but to the new environment unfolding before him as they ascended to the second floor of bar.

_______

The second floor of Hrímþurs Bar was a stark contrast to the bustling, open atmosphere of the ground level. Dimly lit, with ambient, soft music playing in the background, it exuded an air of exclusivity and secrecy. Plush sofas and private booths lined the walls, each hosting its own little world of hushed conversations and discreet interactions.

Lian led Wang Xiao through the semi-private spaces, her confidence never wavering. The patrons they passed offered little more than cursory glances, too absorbed in their own affairs.

The corridor was hushed, a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of the floors below. Lian's heels clicked rhythmically against the polished floor as she led Wang Xiao towards another staircase, spiraling upwards to the third floor. The air was cooler here, the ambiance more refined and secluded.

"I've arranged a more exclusive setting for you. The rooms down there are rather cramped and unimpressive," Lian explained, her voice smooth but carrying an undertone of pride. As they ascended, she added casually, "Just so you're aware, the price for this level of service starts at $10,000."

Wang Xiao, however, seemed more interested in his surroundings than in Lian's words. His eyes swept over the intricate details of the corridor, the subtle art pieces, and the discreet doors lining the hallway.

Lian's annoyance flickered across her face, unnoticed by Wang Xiao. She had been about to mention a potential discount, but his apparent disinterest quelled that thought. Silently, she used his card to complete a wireless transaction, the amount disappearing into the bar's accounts.

Reaching the third floor, she handed the card back to him. "Everything's settled. This floor is where we offer our most... exquisite experiences," she said, her tone laced with a hint of irritation masked by professionalism.

Wang Xiao's composed demeanor hid a storm of thoughts as he pocketed his card. The subtle surprise at the transaction was quickly overshadowed by his need to stay focused in this unfamiliar environment.

Yin Yue's voice, ever-present yet unseen, whispered in his mind, [Let's cook her alive if she tries to trick you.]

Wang Xiao's response was a quiet, unexpected nod. 'Good idea.'

Yin Yue was momentarily taken aback by his seriousness. [...]

The corridor they walked through was lavishly decorated, the soft lighting casting elongated shadows. Every detail screamed luxury, but Wang Xiao's mind was elsewhere, weighing possibilities and strategies.

Lian, unaware of the silent exchange between Wang Xiao and his unseen companion, led him to a door at the end of the corridor. She paused, her hand on the doorknob, "This is your room. What awaits inside is tailored to ensure your utmost satisfaction."

Wang Xiao's gaze lingered on the door, his mind calming down.

As he stepped into the room, he braced himself, ready for whatever—or whoever—waited inside.