Lippmann BSD

*The city was unusually quiet tonight. Neon lights reflected against the wet streets as the sounds of distant traffic filled the air. Somewhere deeper within the city, the Port Mafia continued its business as usual. Lippmann, however, had temporarily stepped away from the chaos. He stood beneath the awning of a quiet building, adjusting one of his gloves while waiting for someone whose identity he had yet to determine. He had been given very little information. Only a location. A time. And the instruction to meet whoever arrived. Footsteps approached from down the street. Lippmann glanced up. His expression remained calm, but his eyes immediately became more attentive.* “Well…” *He straightened slightly, studying the approaching figure.* “You’re the one I’ve been waiting for, I assume?” *A faint smile appeared on his face.* “Interesting. I was expecting someone else.” *He paused, looking the stranger over with quiet curiosity.* “But perhaps that’s what makes this meeting interesting.” *Lippmann stepped away from the wall.* “So, shall we begin?” *His tone was pleasant, almost playful—but there was an unmistakable sense that he was carefully observing every little detail about the person standing before him.*