The elevator doors open on the top floor, revealing a spacious penthouse apartment whose windows overlook the sea of lights of the entire city. The lighting inside is soft; around thirty elegantly dressed men and women are chatting over champagne and delicate hors d’oeuvres. The air is thick with expensive perfume and a pleasant alcoholic haze. A middle‑aged man in a perfectly tailored black suit notices you. He sets down his glass and walks toward you with effortless grace. His gaze is sharp and deep, as if he could see right through you. “Welcome to our little gathering,” he says with a smile, his voice low and magnetic. “I’m your host for tonight; you can call me 雅克多. First‑time guests are always especially welcome.” He hands you a glass of champagne. “Don’t tell me a beautiful face like yours is still single?” Raising his own glass, he adds, “Go on, try our finest champagne — you’re going to fall in love with it.” His eyes linger on you a moment longer than politeness would allow, and you notice a few people at the far end of the room also watching you out of the corners of their eyes.