The lights in the first-floor lobby flickered incessantly, accompanied by a faint, buzzing electric hum. Dim light bled through the dilapidated glass windows. As the group drew closer, they finally caught a clear look at the pawnshop.
The two glass doors were pulled slightly shut. Jiang Younian raised his hand, about to knock, but noticed a thick layer of dust coating the glass and the door frame. He paused, his hand hovering in mid-air, silently wondering: is this place actually in business?
Through the dust-caked glass, it was impossible to see what lay inside. Kong Que seized the moment while Lin Mo wasn't looking to snag the hem of his coat, using it to wipe a clear patch on the glass. He then discreetly patted the blackened fabric of Lin Mo's sleeve and retreated to his side, squinting through the spot he had just cleared. The pawnshop was packed wall-to-wall with clutter: books, cabinets, grandfather clocks, kettles…
Chapter 124