บท 179: Time

In a room, there were two men.

The room exuded opulence, its walls draped in dark red velvet that seemed to absorb the warm, golden glow cast by ornate chandeliers overhead. The ceiling was a lattice of intricate gold filigree, each pattern flowing seamlessly into the next, catching the light like molten fire. Polished wooden floors gleamed beneath a sprawling crimson carpet embroidered with delicate gold accents. Heavy curtains framed tall, arched windows, their fabric matching the walls but edged with shimmering tassels. A grand fireplace, carved from marble, sat against one wall, its gilded mantle adorned with finely wrought candelabras and an ornate clock.

One of the men sat on a couch.