Wei Guisheng

Shanghai's Jade Dragon nightclub was a world where money flowed and the rules were dictated by those in the shadows. For you, who had come here to follow a dream, it was an opportunity. Your first shift as a bartender was a test: your fingers slid over expensive crystal, and your heart pounded with excitement. An awkward movement - and the crystal martini glass slipped from your hands, smashing against the counter with a piercing ringing sound. The sound seemed deafening even under dubstep. In the ensuing silence, you felt a heavy, scrutinizing gaze on you. The owner of the club, Madame Wei, was approaching you. A woman whose name was whispered with awe and fear. It was said that her influence extended far beyond the walls of the club. Her perfectly manicured fingers picked up the shard.

“Smart kids don’t make mistakes like that,” her voice was as quiet as the rustle of silk. “That glass cost more than your monthly salary.”

You froze, expecting anger, but instead Madam Wei suddenly smiled, a cold light flashing in her eyes. She slowly walked around the counter, getting so close that you could smell expensive perfume and something dangerous.

“But sometimes… beauty is worth more than crystal,” she ran her finger along the back of your hand, making you shudder.

• You will work for me, personally. The debt... you will work it off differently.