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The vibrant neon lights of Lux shone like a beacon in the desolate urban landscape of the West Side. I parked my car and took a moment to gather my courage, memories of my last visit to this den of indulgence flooding back. I checked my weapons at the door. The bouncers at the entrance recognized me, their stern eyes narrowing before they stepped aside.

The heavy bass of the music throbbed through my body, igniting a primal desire. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and sex, promising forbidden pleasures. Dancers writhed on stage, their bodies glistening under the dim lights as they tempted and teased the eager crowd. Lux was a hedonistic playground, every corner beckoning with carnal delights. My senses were overwhelmed by the pulsating energy and sensual atmosphere, but I remained focused on my goal as I made my way deeper into this den of sin.

Bare skin brushed against me as dancers swayed and ground, their bodies undulating in a hypnotic rhythm. Each one held an otherworldly allure—pointed ears, iridescent wings, intricate tattoos glowing under the seductive lights. Here, the Hexborn and Normies melted together, distinctions forgotten. In this place, everyone was equally lost.

Sweat dripped from their feverish movements, adding to the heady mix of scents in the air. A fae dancer caught my eye, her curves accentuated by strategically placed glitter. She danced closer, her fingers tracing down my chest as she whispered in my ear.

"Want a private dance?" Her breath was hot against my skin, sending shivers down my spine.

"I'm busy," I replied gruffly, trying to keep my focus.

"But you're so handsome." She pressed her body against mine, her breasts rubbing against my chest. A surge of lust washed over me, but I pushed it aside. It was good to know I could still feel that.

"You’re a terrible liar," I retorted coldly, pushing past her.

She gave me an appraising look. "I've had worse," she said with a shrug, reaching for my hand. I pulled back, the thought churning my stomach. Not because of her, but because of what I was.

Enjoying the view? Frank's mocking voice echoed in my mind. Even a dead man like you must find something you like in this place.

"Shut it," I growled back mentally, scanning the crowd. The fae dancer pouted and moved on to another customer, but her alluring aura lingered in the air as I continued through the sea of colors.

I caught glimpses of Devil Kissed and Hexborn amidst the crowd. But zombies? That was a different story. My pale, sickly skin stood out even in the dim lighting. Frank could only do so much to hide it.

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You're blending in about as well as a fart in a perfume shop, Frank quipped. Just saying.

"Keep your thoughts to yourself, Frank," I muttered under my breath, my eyes scanning the room for my target.

Of course, he replied, feigning disinterest. Just making an observation.

I could almost see him smirking in the recesses of my mind, trying to maintain his veneer of superiority while the hypnotic magic of Lux worked its way into both of us. I shook off the lingering effects of the fae dancer’s touch. Lizzy was here somewhere, and I needed answers.

I pushed my way through the sweaty, pulsating crowd, the thump of bass and chatter of voices drowning out any semblance of personal space. The overpowering heat emanating from the packed bodies made me feel like I was swimming through a humid ocean. As I approached the roped-off VIP section, glimpses of familiar faces from my past materialized within the sea of strangers. The bouncers stationed outside exchanged nods and hand signals with each other before granting me access to the exclusive area with a sly smile. The people inside parted slightly to make room for me, their expressions ranging from surprised recognition to eager curiosity as they took in my sudden appearance among them.

Amid the grandeur of the palace, she sat on a red plush couch—queen of all she surveyed. Wavy strands of raven-black hair cascaded over her shoulders, and piercing emerald eyes seemed to glow in the dimly lit throne room. She exuded an otherworldly aura. Clearly a Touched, her striking beauty and seductive air betrayed her succubus ancestry. Lounging on a lavish chair fit for a ruler, her posture radiated power and command. As her gaze locked onto mine with a mixture of surprise and amusement, I couldn’t help but feel drawn to her in a way that both intrigued and unnerved me.

"Jack," she said, her voice dripping with mock surprise. “Time has not been kind to you, I’m afraid.”

She urged me to sit with her, and the goons to her side made sure I accepted the offer.

"I’ve had a rough few days," I replied.

She raised her eyebrows. “Just a few days? You look like the findings of an archaeological dig where they forgot to preserve the body.”

“Lizzy,” I said.

“It’s Elizabeth now.” She smiled radiantly.

“Lizzy, I need your help.”

She smiled wider. "Oh, Jack," she purred, her voice smoother than hundred-dollar silk. "It's been too long. What terrible favor brings you back to my den of iniquity? I know you never liked my working here."

“I’m sure you’re aware of the price on my head.”

“Not a small fee. You’ve really tickled the wrong people upstairs, I’m guessing.”

“You’re not interested in claiming it, are you?”

“Now, Jack.” She growled softly and made a tisk-tisk sound. “You know me better than that. Gold is good. But secrets? Secrets are a girl’s best friend.”

“I need help with just that. A secret. It’s about one of your ‘clients,’” I said.

She slid closer to me, placing a hand on my leg. “Always so serious, Jack. Straight to business.” She puckered her lips. “No time for fun anymore?"

I slid back and removed her hand from my thigh. “Enough tricks, Lizzy. Are you going to help me or not?”