Accept the invitation

"Alright", you agree willingly.

You always like to experience the local customs of the place you're in, and you can't think of a better way than to have a drink with a local. You open the gate, and walk into the garden. The man gets up from his chair, and leads you to the front door. Inside the threshold, he turns to you, with a hand outstretched.

"My name is Carlo", he says.

"I'm Luke", you reply, taking the proffered hand.

Carlo's grip is strong, and when he lets go, you massage your hand to make sure he hasn't broken any bones. Luckily, he has turned away. Carlo leads you deeper into the house.

Finally, you end up in the kitchen. Carlo pulls out a chair for you, and you sit. He moves around the kitchen, taking out two small glasses, and a glass bottle. He fills the glasses generously, and offers one to you. You sniff it, and smell the strong odour of spirits.

"It is a local specialty", Carlo says, noticing your hesitation. "We drink it like this."

He says something loudly in Italian, and downs the glass in one gulp. You look at your own glass dubiously, but, not wanting to offend your host, try to copy what he said. The **** burns as it slides down your throat.

Carlo laughed uproariously at your discomfort, and pours you each another glass. You try to refuse, but he insists.

"Just one more", you relent.

You finish the glass, feeling the **** beginning to affect you.