The Unshackled Queen: Never Say Never by Gilbert Soysal

Hannah’s subtle gesture halted him in his tracks, prompting Atticus to withdraw quietly, settling into a seat across from the assembled crowd.

The entrance of the enigmatic figure, adorned in a rabbit mask, sent ripples of curiosity through the room, momentarily hushing the murmurs that had filled the halt.

“What’s with the costume? Are we in some kind of cosplay convention?”

“Why hide behind a mask? Can’t the boss show his face like a normal person?” another chimed in.

“Is this all just a grand entrance, or is there a point to it?” questioned a third.

“When will the game begin? Let’s cut to the chase already,” another impatient participant demanded.

As the rabbit-masked man settled at a sleek black table, the eager anticipation in the air was palpable.

His tone sounded raspy and distorted as he began to address the gathered crowd.

“Since you’re all itching to get started, allow me to explain the rules.

”

likely altered by some device concealed within

gaze remained fixed

his gaze, the man locked eyes with her

is simple, a familiar

We’ll be playing blackjack.

two cards, one face-up and one face-

to draw additional cards, aiming to get as close to twenty-one as possible without

”

a sense of familiarity; after all, blackjack was a staple

despite its simplicity, its outcome hinged on a delicate balance

too, played

reading opponents and blessed with

it also demanded nerves of steel to navigate the game’s twists and

players, Hannah pondered their chances against such a

the rabbit-masked man pressed on, his challenge hung heavy

so I hope you can all

share in

believe I’ve