Controlling The Fortress

The bar they met at was dilapidated by time and it was obvious that it needed repainting more than once. The inside was cozy with a brightly-lit interior. The owner's taste was unique as bars usually were dim and less showy. 

As Arthur walked into the bar, he recognized Ivy, Li, Zas, Reece, and Si sitting in a lounge around a table, drinking. There were three others that he had never met before, probably members of Mistletoe as well. 

"Isn't it early to be drinking already?" Arthur asked with amazement as it was still bright outside, the evening a short time from descending. 

"Never too early for a few shots, genius junior of mine!" Reece poured a glass before pushing it into Arthur's face. The group was already sitting and chatting before he got here, but it seemed their attention was redirected at him. 

"I'm not a genius," Arthur smiled thinly and took the glass, although he had no intention of drinking it.