1948, Shanghai.  The war with Japan has been over for several years, and a veteran is settling into a life of relative peace in a global city. By all appearances Alexander "Caohua" Mehr is an ordinary man. A major player in the Shanghai cabaret scene, his Red Lily club caters to all kinds of clients. One day, as Alex is making the rounds, a high ranking client requests a favor that would change the course of history.  [participant in the Royal Road Writathon challenge] Expect updates 3 days each week