Central City was a large, bustling metropolis situated in the Northern American Republic. With a population of eleven million and a size which dwarfs the cities of the older United States of America, Central City is the financial, residential and commercial of the NAR. Built in a large square, the city is divided into nine districts. Starting from the north west corner, there is the Market District, Residential Suites, Electronics District, Commercial District, Red Light District in the center, Entertainment District, Transportation District, Financial District, and finally, Slums.<br/><br/>Situated on the corner of Main Street and Broadway, in the middle of the posh Red Light District is a rather large building furnished in faux gold and silver, making the strip clubs and erotic dance theaters look like grime in comparison. This building is a pawn shop, owned by a strange, yet beautiful woman named Maria Despair (http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t297/XenoGuy/1-2168396-8697-t.jpg), her shoulder-length green hair falling sweetly around her face, framing her smile perfectly, while her red eyes reel you into a blissful oblivion. Emerging from a heavy iron door with a young woman in tow, she gives her a sweet smile as she accepts a large sum of cash from her. Counting as her partner flips the papers into her hands, she double-checks the sum.<br/><br/>"Here you are, Maria. Thousand dollars, as we discussed." Maria smiles and accepts the money, turning her attention to the woman.<br/><br/>"And what of you, Sera? Are you satisfied with your purchase?" The red-headed woman gives a weak smile and a vigorous nod.<br/><br/>"Oh, am I. I don't think I'll be able to walk for another three days... Valdaranna's so... good." Maria laughed as she pocketed the money and gave the woman a hug.<br/><br/>"Well, hurry back, Sera. Val gets so lonely when she doesn't feel your touch for too long." Sera laughed and nodded as Maria opened the heavy oak door which lead to the pawn shop proper. "And don't let your work get you so stressed. It's bad for your pretty complexion." Sera let out another hearty chuckle and gave Maria a salute, hobbling out of the shop. Returning to the counter, Maria had just enough time to inhale before greeting another customer. "Good afternoon, and welcome to Central City Cash and Pawn. My name is Maria, the owner. Is there anything particular you're looking for today?" She smiled to the newcomer, flashing fang and courtesy.