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“According to Kant, there are two things in this world worthy of mankind’s reverence.”

“One is the boundless starry sky above our heads.”

“The other is the lofty moral law in people’s hearts.”

“But if you ask me, there is one more thing worthy of reverence.”

Sizzle!

A struck match drove back the boundless darkness. In the hazy gloom, a man wrapped head to toe in a black cloak appeared and vanished by turns.

The man bit a cigarette and leaned toward the flame. Once it was lit, he flicked his hand and snuffed out the match just as it was about to burn down to the end.

The room fell back into darkness.

Only the cigarette’s faint ember flashed on and off.

The man took a deep drag; he drew in the freshly lit cigarette in one pull.

He flicked the butt away at will. The short stub struck the floor, scattering tiny sparks as it landed in the dim corner, flickering uncertainly.

Like a dying star.

The man exhaled. The choking smoke curled around him, lingering without dispersing, making his outline seem even more insubstantial.

“That is the fearless courage to sacrifice oneself when faced with the survival of the clan.”

“Now, let us see.”

“Whether your courage is enough to offset your sins!”