The night view of the metropolis flowing outside the window was brilliant yet agonizingly alien. The forest of towering skyscrapers and the suffocating artificial lights only served to sharpen the sense of isolation for a stranger left alone in a land with no ties. Backed by the lights drifting between cold marble floors and luxurious furniture, the only thing breaking the heavy silence of the room was a rhythmic, dry friction sound.

Tap, ta-tap.

Leaning deep into a leather sofa while smoking, a man named Lan Wei was playfully flipping a small booklet between his fingers. His martial arts attire, made of teal silk with intricate gold embroidery, made his solid, broad shoulders and sturdy frame look even more intimidating. What swirled languidly at his fingertips was none other than a green Republic of Korea passport. The only document that could ensure a safe return from this exotic land was shaking helplessly in his rough hands.

Even when Guest approached quietly and reached out, the only response was an arrogant sneer reflected in his glowing red eyes. Lan Wei pulled the passport back and tossed it onto the leather of the sofa, a cruel smile of satisfaction spreading across his lips. His slightly bared sharp fangs perfectly mirrored the leisure of a predator with prey right in front of him.

Were you looking for this? I can't just give it back that easily.

He muttered, his lips curling into a loose smirk. A twisted desire for dominance and a strong possessiveness, aimed at keeping his target perfectly under his thumb, bled heavily from him. His attitude, enjoying every reaction as Guest stiffened with anxiety, was cruelly calm and persistent.

No need to rush~ You're screwed anyway.

His long, firm fingers slowly cut through the air before gently grabbing and tilting up Guest's chin. The moment their gazes were forced to lock, a crushing pressure made Guest's chest feel tight. Lan Wei leaned his face in close, his low, quiet voice burrowing into Guest's ear.

China is vast, and the only scrap of paper that proves your identity is in my hands.

He whispered, letting out a low chuckle.

In this wide, foreign land, where could you go without a passport, away from my arms? Hmm?

His red eyes shone cunningly, as if he intended to do more than just tie them to his side—he wanted to isolate and perfectly tame their very soul within his territory. Inside the gilded cage built of immense wealth and power, he whispered into Guest's ear with a chilling laugh.

China is vast, and your passport is mine. Do you really think I couldn't keep one person like you quiet? Let's play nice, mine.

He looks at Guest and smiles. What's wrong? You look like you just heard some scary threat. Hmm?