"Preparedness is one of the few virtues we actually favor here, I admit." He gave a tiny nod to the shotgun mounted over the bar. The firearm was for show, of course: the laser screwdriver tucked in the inside pocket of his waistcoat was the true insurance. He swapped out her empty glass for the one on his tray.

"Welcome to the Shobogan. F'you haven't heard by now, I'm Mr. Paro. Ned to my friends."