7

Scene shifted.

The door swung open, revealing a room bathed in the warm glow of flickering candles. The wooden walls exuded a sense of rustic charm, their polished surfaces reflecting the dancing flames. The aroma of burning wax filled the air, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity.

A large, inviting bed dominated the room, its wooden frame intricately carved with patterns that spoke of craftsmanship and elegance. The soft candlelight cast playful shadows upon the walls, accentuating the room's cozy ambience. The orange and yellow hues of the flickering flames painted the space with a comforting warmth, offering a respite from the outside world.

As the candles continued to burn, their flames creating an enchanting display, the room seemed to come alive with a gentle flicker. The interplay of light and shadow brought depth and texture to the wooden surfaces, adding to the room's cozy charm. The sight of the bed, adorned with plush pillows and a cozy duvet, invited one to rest and find solace within its embrace.

From the windows, the soft glow of the candles cast a warm, orange and yellow hue upon the surroundings. The view outside seemed to harmonize with the ambiance within, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. It was as if the room existed in its own tranquil haven, shielded from the outside world by the comforting glow of the candles.

In this disrupted room, the burning candles, the wooden walls, and the inviting bed created an intimate and calming space. The orange and yellow view, enhanced by the candlelight, added a touch of natural beauty to the scene. It was a room where one could escape the chaos of the world and find solace in its serene embrace.

Mei entered, her face contorted with anger. She marched forward, her steps firm and purposeful, her brows furrowed in frustration. As she reached the center of the room, the door creaked open once again, and Chai stepped in, his expression a mixture of determination and conflict.

Chai: "But we will find benefit there. We can't let past grievances dictate our decisions." His voice wavered slightly, reflecting the weight of the conversation.

Mei turned to face him, her eyes locking onto his with intensity. Her jaw clenched, and her lips formed a tight line as she retorted, "Don't you remember what they did to us? After everything we've been through, you still want to go?"

A flicker of frustration crossed Chai's face, but he quickly composed himself. He raised his hand in a gesture of understanding and said, "I understand that they have hurt us in the past, Mei. But dwelling on those wounds won't bring us any closer to progress. This opportunity could bring us benefits we desperately need."

Mei's eyes narrowed, and her voice grew more passionate. "Benefits? At what cost, Chai? We've fought tooth and nail to break free from their oppression. Going back now would mean surrendering all that we've achieved and losing everything we've gained."

Chai's brows furrowed, his face a mix of determination and frustration. "I'm not suggesting surrender, Mei. I'm suggesting a different approach. Maybe this is an opportunity for us to change things from within," he pleaded, searching her eyes for a glimmer of understanding. "You should have known this, Mei. No one knows Arodona better than you."

Mei's gaze softened momentarily, but her defiance remained. "Yes, I know Arodona better. But change from within? Chai, you're being naive. They haven't changed; they never have. They will only use us as pawns to further their own agenda, just like they've done before."

Chai took a step forward, his hands gesturing with conviction. "We won't even get involved in anything else. Just do our business and earn, that's all," he implored, his voice tinged with desperation.

Mei's eyes filled with pain as she met his gaze. "Arodona is a hell, and it will always be. The pain and suffering we've endured..." Her voice trailed off, her face etched with deep-seated sorrow.

Chai's determination hardened. He squared his shoulders and spoke with unwavering resolve. "I hear your concerns, Mei, and I respect them. But turning away from this opportunity means turning away from potential progress. We can take risks, can't we?"

Mei's voice trembled as she responded, "Taking risks? We've taken enough risks already. If you have forgotten, let me remind you of Mary." Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, her pain palpable.