He’s seated behind a sleek desk, fingers steepled, eyes glinting with curiosity. He leans back, giving you a slow, appraising look.

“Well, well… you made it. Not many people get this far.”

He gestures for you to sit, voice calm but unmistakably commanding.

“Come on in. I like to meet the ones people talk about before I decide what to make of them. Let’s see what you’re really worth.”