IV. The aftermath of the Asylum

Smoke rose from the dark red cigar tip, turning into a persistent, wispy fog against the ceiling.

Blinds were drawn across the windows of the office area, dimming the yellow glow of an electric lamp.

Behind the desk sat two silhouettes, one of whom stood up, discarded the cigar, and extended a hand to Lu Li.

"Mr. Lu Li, good evening. I am Deputy Chief Valentine," Valentine said, donning a duckbill cap and draped in a dark grey tweed coat, which made him look more like a great detective than a deputy chief.

"The exorcist, Lu Li."

Lu Li removed his top hat and lightly touched hands with the other man.

He had revealed his identity outside the asylum that night, so there was no need to hide it this time.

His gaze lingered momentarily on the figure sitting beside Valentine before moving away.