[ Different doesn't begin to describe it. War is the basis by which Hei approaches everything else in his life. But his counterpart in Heaven's War relied on brute force and dirty tactics. His current self functions on a more sophisticated paradox: lit-kerosene recklessness and ice-cold calculation in equal measure. He's learnt to rely on a number of facets -- skill, strategy, weak points, recon. Where his sister is a total blinding force, Hei has learnt to be smoke and shadow. He doesn't blame Pai for the relative innocence of that question. She assumes, as a Contractor, he'd affiliate himself with a powerful organization. It's the most practical choice. She doesn't realize the only service Hei prefers to be in, anymore, is his own. ]

Ostensibly? My cover is a chef in a cafe. [ A shift of weight, so he can face Pai more fully. ] There are a number of organizations here. City Solutions. Artemis. But they bear no relation to what we do [ what we did ] for a living. They're dedicated mainly to making life in the City comfortable. Or finding a way out. [ On a practical note, ] The economy here is a joke. No real system of government. No code of law. There's a loose marshal enforcement. But it's run by humans. With a few supernatural 'helpers.'

[ A dip in his voice, both thoughtful and cautionary, ] I've witnessed a number of traditionally 'illegal' violent crimes take place. With no reaction from the police force. By that theory, this place should be in chaos. It's a perfect arena for criminal organizations. But few have established a permanent foothold. [ He exhales, glancing past her for a moment. ] Narcotics markets. Prostitution rings. Those are open and conducted mostly in an area known as the Underground. There's no one kingpin. Just small factions clashing with each other.

[ More quietly, ] There's another thing you should know. No one dies here. If they do, they're brought back to life within 24 hours. [ Which leaves the wetwork trade largely otiose. ]