My Costar is a bargaining chip
As soon as Yao Shen steps through the door, the sounds and scents of Youdu assault him.
The city looks the same as he remembers, a big, bustling, underground metropolis -- and the only one.
He can tell that some part of him is drawn to the city, some primal corner of his soul must recognize it as home somehow. Even though Yao Shen's mind has no memories of the narrow streets, and towering wooden constructions, it's as if his muscles do, and they strain to follow familiar paths.
The ghoul keeps a close eye on him, Yao Shen can't explore at his leisure -- for now.
He's led to the same building, overlooking the decadent inner courtyard. There are four kings again this time, and they're surprised to see him.
The woman with the qipao takes a long drag of her pipe and looks Yao Shen up and down. "Good to see you're not in pajamas or underwear this time."
Yao Shen ignores her remark. "I have your answer."