“……!”
A low voice descended as quietly as a bird settling beside the water.
The paper sliding door opened without a sound.
Everyone who had been standing guard outside the doorway had, at some point, lowered themselves deeply.
The scent of orchids surged in like the incoming tide. The elders hurriedly rose from their seats.
“S-Sect Leader!”
“When did you leave seclusion—!”
Their startled faces twisted.
Hyun Seowan had dropped to one knee the instant she heard the voice of the Sect Leader she revered.
The Fourth Elder cried out, face contorted.
“Sect Leader! This expulsion was approved by the acting Sect Leader and every elder present here. Even if you are the Sect Leader—”
“I nullify it.”
“……!”
Hayan-sae turned tranquil eyes toward the Fourth Elder.
“That is a direct order from the Sect Leader.”
“…….”
“If anyone still has an objection, step forward and speak.”
The Fourth Elder swallowed dryly.
As if anyone could.
It was hard to believe even while witnessing it with…