After about 30 minutes, Jack returned to the private room.

"That was quick," noted Felix.

Jack grinned. "Of course! Like I said, it's just a formality. Ms. Kinsley handled everything earlier. Actually, with Nessa busy training, I thought I'd explore some local entertainment.

"Do you want to join tonight? The company contacts can arrange everything. It's totally safe—no scams."

Scams? Felix found it amusing. What scammer would dare try anything with a martial arts master like himself?

"This liquor's basically water. Let's make do with it. By the way, I never asked—what brings you to Astoria?"

Felix glanced at him with a smirk. He joked, "I got invited by a beautiful Astorian lady."

Jack scoffed. "Yeah, right. Cheers!"

Just as they raised their glasses, the door slid open. Four burly men sat down rudely on both sides. Judging from their tattoos, they were likely local gang members.

Jack frowned and asked, "Can I help you?"

They did not respond, either unable or unwill