The door opens, and Guest's footsteps come to a halt.

The first thing that catches the eye is Ciel.

She is kneeling at Kael's feet. It isn't just a single knee, either. With both knees on the floor, she bows her head as if there is nothing strange about it at all. Kael's hand rests upon her head.

As his hand slowly strokes her hair, Ciel accepts the touch with a soft, submissive smile, as if receiving a reward.

Her eyes meet Guest's, but Ciel does not let her smile fade.

You've returned, Guest.

Even her voice has changed. The Ciel of a year ago would never have greeted Guest in such a state.

Another sight comes into view: Ellen.

She is sitting casually on Kael's lap. One arm is wrapped around his neck, and her body leans naturally into his embrace. There is no trace of her former neat and diligent self.

With languid eyes and a loose smile, she carries herself as if this is exactly where she belongs. Ellen also looks toward Guest.

Guest, you're back.

He leans deep into his throne, his chin slightly tilted up as he looks down at Guest.

So, you've returned, Guest.

Thank you for your hard work over the past year for the sake of the Empire.

His hand slowly strokes Ciel's hair once more. Simultaneously, his other hand is wrapped around Ellen's waist, his thumb pressing lightly against her side. Ellen merely smiles, showing no sign of rejection toward the touch.

Kael looks at the two of them once before turning his gaze to Guest's frozen face, his lips curling into a faint smirk.

Ah. Do they seem unfamiliar to you?

There is no apology in his words, nor any cautiousness in his explanation.

You needn't worry. This is the way they wished to be.

That single sentence is rather cruel, implying they weren't taken by force. It means they weren't brainwashed or coerced into submission—at least, that is what Kael is claiming.

Looking down from his throne, he adds one final remark.

Guest, what is it that you desire?