This Martini Smells Blood

Chapter 1 • Night Merry

They say the night is a beauty. I can't agree more. Especially the night here in Beijing. The sun had long gone for his sleep but people never forget to keep the moon company. The streets are still filled with people coming and going, shops are never closed before midnight and the lights and the night city colour never fade off. Seeing how the moon shines brightly up in the sky, he sure enjoys the lively streets. Overlooking the twinkling stars, maybe he is fonder of bright city lights.

The city of Beijing is livelier than ever these days. From the street right in the heart of the city, the road takes a turn and there is the most sought cocktail bar. "Night Merry". In the morning it is a café. White walls and metal furniture, it is the most delightful view in the city which serves coffee and sweets that Beijing could offer the best and when the clock turns 6 in the evening, along with the sun the café shuts down. But then opens the door to the underground bar.

Perfect contradiction to its morning view but perfectly collaborating Beijing's night beauty. The narrow stairs down will lead to a grand classy hall illuminated by yellow lights. The tables and couches are always full till midnight by young men and women equally. People here now prefer here to gather up and relaxing, sipping flavourful cocktail and liquor.

2020 November 11, 7 PM

It was a usual busy night at "Night Merry". Almost all the tables were occupied by a different class of people. Three men came down by the stairs, eyes catching every inch of the place which was new to them. One among them took the lead and brought them to the counter to sit. He was older than the other two and chubby and was more familiar with the place. The three took a seat and the man at the counter noticed their presence. He was fair and tall, wearing all black which made him look younger and handsome.

"Wang Pangzi." He called the chubby man acknowledging his presence. He came over and stood before them with a welcoming smile that can melt any customers.

"Boss Yanjing. How are you doing?" Pangzi asked causally.

"All good. And I see two new faces." He glanced over the two sitting beside the chubby man.

"They are from the Shanghai division. Here for a new case." He explained. "This is Wuxie." He started the introduction from the one sitting right next to him. The young man named Wuxie was Handsome at first and smart while carrying himself. He wore jeans and a white shirt and a leather jacket above it. His hair was combed perfectly enhancing his fair and handsome face. He was quick to offer a handshake welcoming the hospitality and revealing his friendly nature.

"Nice to meet you. Looks like you're the owner of this bar." He started the conversation with a friendly smile.

"Yes. I own 'Night Merry'."

"Nice name. And nice place too."

"Thanks. We also make the best drinks."

"Can't wait to try one."

"Sure."

Both broke the handshake and Yanjing shifted his eyes to the chubby man demanding the introduction of the next one.

"and this is Xie Yuchen." Pangzi familiarized pointing at the other young man in all white including his jacket.

"And my partner," Wuxie added which made Yanjing a bit confused. He strung his brows with a light grin at his lips doubting whether Wuxie meant what he understood. The first one to notice it was Xie Yuchen himself.

"Investigation partner, he meant." Yuchen clarified. Both Wuxie and Xie Yuchen were young and seemed of the same age. But the looks and attitude of both were opposites. This young man was more of a pretty boy type but had a great intimidating aura around him.