The Dragon Lady's Ascent - Solo Creative Event-

[Libelle "Onyx" Ryoko - Council]

Libelle stood at the edge of the dock, the biting wind tangling her hair in chaotic knots more so than the tumultuous sea voyage had. She gripped tightly the bag that Daniel had thrust into her hands, his urgent explanation echoing in her mind: he had to remain with the crew for a while to repay their passage, but he promised to return as swiftly as possible. If only she had foreseen this twist of fate, she might never have allowed him to barter his freedom for her hasty escape from the shadows of her past.

Once again, she found herself engulfed in the suffocating weight of solitude, her thoughts crashing against her like relentless waves battering a steadfast rock. Stumbling away from the dock, a sense of dread coiled around her throat, tightening with each step. Here she stood, alone in an unfamiliar world, battered and bruised, and now inexplicably wed to a stranger in a fleeting moment of passion. The reality of being abandoned by Daniel stung sharper than any physical blow.

Unsure of her next move and grappling with the fear of starting anew, Libelle wandered down the docks, her footsteps echoing through the neglected area where planks of wood splintered and decayed. As she strolled along the rocky shoreline beside a towering cliff, her keen eye caught a glimmer in the shadows a dull shine beckoning her closer. Compelled by curiosity, she approached an alcove and decided to take refuge there for a short while, hoping to gather her scattered thoughts.

As she settled into the alcove, the flicker of light caught her attention, revealing an old, rusted door half-hidden in the rock. With a surge of determination, she heated one hand until it glowed, melting away the lock that held the door captive. Pushing it open, she anticipated finding nothing but a foul sewage outlet, but instead, a tunnel unfolded before her, unilluminated torches strategically placed along the walls.

Taking one of the torches, she struck a match from Daniel’s bag and watched as the flame flickered to life. The light revealed alcoves filled with timeworn boxes and remnants of bedding, remnants of lives once lived. As she ventured deeper into the tunnel, she stumbled upon its end, where a ladder led up to a hatch. It was reckless and dangerous, yet curiosity tugged at her, urging her to ascend.

With a firm push, she opened the hatch, a cloud of dust swirling around her as the door creaked back. What lay before her was a rundown tavern, its dilapidated state reminiscent of a bygone era. Memories of her childhood in a bustling inn flooded her mind as she surveyed the chaos shattered glasses, empty bottles, and stairs that seemed unable to hold any weight. The silence enveloped her, and no one came to investigate the disturbance she had caused.

Stepping fully into the tavern, Libelle brushed dust from her hands and set the bag down on the floor, her eyes scanning the barren walls and sagging roof until they landed on a figure sprawled lifelessly on the floor. A man clutched a rolled-up paper to his chest, and she surmised he had succumbed to a heart attack. A wave of compassion washed over her as she drew closer, carefully sliding the paper from the man’s lifeless grip.

As she unrolled the document, surprise flickered within her. It was a deed likely granting ownership of the tavern itself. “Had he perhaps died of joy?” she pondered, a bittersweet smile gracing her lips. This place could be hers, she realized. After all, possession was nine-tenths of the law. Offering silent prayers for the man she had never known, she utilized her ability to petrify him with her gas then with a single touch, allowing him to join the dust and memories of this forgotten establishment.

As she surveyed her surroundings, a spark of potential ignited within her. She understood that, as a woman, her options were inherently limited, and she was done relying on others who had only brought her pain. Clutching the scroll tightly, she resolved to create a business that served a purpose, one that would attract men with coin and allow her to command the respect she desired.

“Your body can be a weapon if you learn to wield it, Libs,” her mother’s voice resonated in her mind. “One look, one touch, one word—if executed correctly—can bring a man to his knees. That’s where you want them.” Her mother’s knowing smirk flashed in her memory, a reminder of the power she possessed.

Shaking off the recollections, Libelle focused her attention on the task at hand. She glanced at the coins Daniel had left her, confident that she would not only recover but flourish. She doubted whether Daniel would want her back after she transformed into the Mistress of a Brothel.

As she began to clean and assess the dilapidated tavern, she met Ostana, soon affectionately known as “Ruby.” Grateful for Ruby’s skills in repairs, they worked tirelessly together, and soon the brothel opened its doors. At first, attracting clients proved challenging until Libelle began to employ a gas she had once concocted for her abusive ex, a potent aphrodisiac meant for “love potions.”

Despite her awareness of the dangers associated with it, desperation fueled her determination. Weeks passed, and word spread of The Dragon Lady, an exotic mistress offering unforgettable nights, thanks to her euphoric gas. Libelle attracted a cadre of regular suitors who showered her with glittering gemstones, vowing to whisk her away if only she would consider them.

As the years rolled by, she expanded her establishment, welcoming girls who reminded her of her younger self. Gradually, she ceased taking new clients, choosing instead to serve only those with whom she felt a connection.

Though the bruises of her past faded, the scars remained—etched in her skin and mind. Thoughts of Daniel grew increasingly distant, the man who had once saved her yet never returned. She had forged a path of her own, and as she embraced the life she had built, pride swelled within her heart.