I dropped my luggage onto the plush carpet and started inspecting the room. The bed looked soft enough to swallow a small army. The couch was perfect for lounging. The kitchen was stocked with everything I could need, from basic utensils to a coffee machine that probably cost more than my old apartment.
A soft knock at the door broke my thoughts.
> "Room service," a polite voice called.
I opened the door to see a hotel staff member holding a silver tray. On it rested a steaming cup of tea, a small teapot, and a little plate with some biscuits.
"Ah, perfect timing," I said, taking the tray. "Just what I needed after a long flight."
> "We thought you might like some tea, sir. Freshly brewed," the staffer said with a polite smile.
I gave a small nod. "Excellent. Leave the tray here; I'll manage."
As the door clicked shut, I set the teapot down on the table and poured myself a cup
I lifted the cup, inhaling deeply. "Mmm… nothing like perfectly brewed tea to calm the mind," I muttered to myself.
I took a careful sip. Hmmm… let's purify this. I channeled my energy through my palms, sending a gentle wave into the tea. Tiny motes of blue light swirled inside, erasing impurities and leaving the liquid perfectly clean, smooth, and invigorating.
"Perfect" I said
My phone buzzed. Kyle. I answered with a grin.
> "Hey, Kyle! Guess who's officially in New York?"
> "Let me guess… you?" she replied, sounding half annoyed, half amused.
"Bingo! Smooth flight. I'd say a solid start," I said, leaning back in my hotel chair.
> "You're impossible. Did you at least survive the airport without causing a scene?"
"Of course. Well… mostly. The flight attendants were unusually attentive, so I might have been too charming for my own good," I teased.
> "Ha! That doesn't surprise me at all. So, where are you staying?"
"Luxury hotel, top floor, incredible view of the skyline. Don't worry, I'm scouting for… research purposes," I said
> "Research purposes, huh? Just don't get yourself kidnapped, shot, or eaten by a mutant before you even start your plan," she scolded lightly.
"Relax, I've got this." I said, smirking.
> "Just try not to blow anything up," she warned.
"Blow anything up? Me? Never. I'm the model of restraint," I said dramatically.
> "Really? she asked.
"Maybe. Maybe not. You'll find out soon enough," I replied mysteriously.
> "Ugh… fine. Just don't die, okay?"
"Wouldn't dream of it," I said, smiling. "Now go back to bed, sleepyhead. I'll call you later once I've done some recon."
> "Fine, you weirdo. Be careful," she said, hanging up.