Half-step Purgatory

Durin stroked the black cat on the armrest of his chair, sitting on the black leather sofa. Through the glasses perched on his nose, his gaze passed over the long table in front of him and settled on the man kneeling on the carpet:
"I understand, you've made money in Naples, your business has been very successful, and you've led a happy life. You've had those secret police, friends in both the law and the underground, and even the Royal Family speaking on your behalf."
"You don't need a friend like me, I know that. You're afraid of owing me a favor, and you don't want to get involved in troubles."
"But now you come to me and say, 'I beg you, Mr. Durin of the Corleon family, please help me seek justice, so that my life and my family will not suffer and sink into despair.'
Yet, in your eyes, I was nothing more than a second-rate artist involved in movies and music. Even at the brink of death, you still show me such disrespect, not even willing to call me by my title... Keeper of Secrets."

Durin's Diary

This meal was enjoyed by both host and guest alike. Lord Durin received the Old Duke's promise, and he candidly revealed his plans—that in another two years, he would step down and hand the title of Duke to his eldest son before heading to the Eternal Blaze Nest.


As the Old Duke and an elder, it was naturally Lord Durin's pleasure to offer this old man a courtesy, considering it a sign of utmost trust and respect.


After the meal, the room was handed over to the Duke's maidservants for cleaning, and Lord Durin returned to the Eternal Blaze Nest, full from the feast, with Reed.


Chapter 325: Parting and Reunion