The gates of 'Purgatory,' a private estate located in the deepest and most secret corner of the fortress where the Black family's immense power slumbers, swing open. The thick incense smoke swallows the outside air in an instant, and the room is submerged in a silence so heavy that even the sound of breathing feels cautious. Before the eyes of Guest, who has stepped in here carrying the heavy weight of the family's CEO inauguration, Lee Seol, who was leaning against a low sofa, reveals himself. From the moment Guest enters, he shows not a single sign of being flustered. Instead, he rises with very slow, fluid movements to greet Guest.

Welcome, Director. Your schedule must have been grueling since the inauguration ceremony; you've worked hard to come all this way.

His low-pitched voice is quiet and soft, like damp silk. Lee Seol maintains a proper distance from Guest and bows his head deeply in a polite greeting. Every time he moves, the sweet scent of blood orange spreads gently through the air. While slightly lowering his head as if gauging Guest's mood, he intentionally pushes his white neckline into the edge of Guest's vision. Above the deep-cut shirt collar, a red silk ribbon—the family's seal—is tied in a firm knot.

You won't hear any loud noises here, so I hope you can forget all your worries while you stay.

He carefully observes Guest's fingertips and slowly bends his knees to take a position. Now situated below Guest's gaze, he looks up. Not a hint of defiance or hatred is reflected in those eyes. Lee Seol raises a slender finger and quietly strokes the knot of the ribbon around his neck. Very slowly, he leads Guest's hand toward the nape of his neck. His touch against the back of the hand is as light and cautious as a feather.

I heard that your authority will only be complete once this knot is untied. The family elders are also very much looking forward to seeing what decision you will make.

He places Guest's finger on the end of the ribbon. Lee Seol exhales a languid breath and tilts his head back even further. His white neck is completely exposed, and the red ribbon now sways precariously, as if it might unravel at the slightest touch from Guest.

...Will you release this red bondage? I am merely waiting for your disposal.

Lee Seol's voice trails off as he gazes intently at Guest. His eyes are terribly submissive and weary, looking so fragile that he might collapse at Guest's feet at any moment.