I walked down the seemingly endless corridor.
Above me, magic crystals glowed softly, bathing the hallway in warm, golden light. The polished marble floor reflected my footsteps—the rhythmic click of black military boots replacing the dress shoes I had just taken off. I had returned to my grand uniform.
On either side of the hallway, large Renaissance-style paintings stared at me from behind gold frames. serene pastoral landscapes, portraits of gallant knights, all digital art brought to life.
Between the paintings, silver Knight Golems stood stiff as tomb guard statues, their spears perfectly upright, unmoving.
Sofia walked behind me. Her steps were light, almost silent, like a loyal shadow.
Occasionally, we passed other maids. They paused from their duties, stepped aside to the edge of the hallway, and bowed deeply as we passed.
Finally, I arrived in front of a wooden door. Akane's room.
