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“Is that why people keep avoiding you and look like they’re afraid of losing their limbs?”

His cheeks slightly upturned. “Chopping off limbs isn’t really my style. It’s too messy. I prefer breaking kneecaps, nicking Achilles tendons, and making them run for a bit.”

Swell. Another crazy man to watch out for.

“It would be easier if you just broke the tibia,” Takeshi remarked, still staring straight ahead.

“But where’s the fun in that?”

“Fair point.”

And now they were bonding over which bones were more suitable for breaking.

Did she have a sign on her back that read, ‘Accepting male companions: Only those who avoid therapy?’

When they turned a sharp corner, her gaze stretched wide.

In the distance, the largest building she’d ever seen loomed. It was dazzling white, with thirty massive golden pillars supporting the grand structure, leading to marble steps and open bronze gates. The awe-inspiring architecture looked more like a grand temple to worship ancient deities.

It was even bigger than the Council Chambers of Apollo.

Hundreds of men and women in impeccable outfits ascended the golden steps, their faces alight with anticipation.

“Is that—”

“Yes. That’s the casino. Be on your guard,” Raziel answered, straightening his suit and marching forward.

Khalani forced her mouth to close, smoothing her hands over her dress. Taking a deep breath, she followed Raziel, ignoring the inner voice that screamed for her to run and never look back.

19

They became so engrossed with winning,

they forgot to care about those who lost.

After passing through the grand gates of the casino, Khalani entered a lavish golden room that left her speechless. Hundreds of unfamiliar machines covered the red-carpeted floor, surrounded by a sea of eager people who kept pulling levers and pressing flashing buttons.

It seemed like the entire population of Hermes had gathered inside the building.

The air buzzed with boisterous cheers, and she coughed as the thick aroma of cigarettes and clashing perfumes filled her lungs.

The rich opulence covered every facet of the room, down to the tiniest details.

Khalani’s gaze lifted to the dome ceiling, captivated by a breathtaking mural that was crafted out of diamonds, rubies, and gold. Her eyes swept over the beautiful angels drifting above shimmering clouds, and she tilted her head back further, losing herself in the image.

“Close your mouth. Don’t look like you’ve never been here,” Raziel reprimanded, casting a sidelong glance at her.

“I don’t understand,” she stammered, looking around in pure awe. “Why are all these people here?”

“The casino is where people gamble.”

Her brows knitted in confusion, prompting him to sigh.

“It’s where people play games to win money. They wager their own funds, hoping to make more in return. Naturally, the casino has ways to ensure it always wins in the end, but people keep returning every night, trying to recover what they’ve lost. Some gamble away their housing allowance, money for food, or even their children’s education. It’s a vicious cycle this place thrives on.”

“That’s horrible.”

Raziel shrugged. “Losing is good for business. Desperate people do desperate things.”