[ORIGINAL POV]
"System, let me check my current balance."
║–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––║
║Current EXP Balance:║
║→ Positive EXP: 162║
║→ Negative EXP: 64║
║–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––║
"I bought everything," Cressida muttered, reviewing her virtual inventory. "But somehow, a large chunk of my Experience Points still remain."
She was, frankly, more prepared than she realized.
She already owned several deeply useful items from the digital store and just needed to stop hoarding them and commit to using them at the opportune moment.
Readying herself, Cressida summoned a carriage. The short ride to the Imperial Palace took only minutes.
Upon arriving at the enormous, oppressive palace complex, she was met by a young, impeccably dressed maid whose face was utterly devoid of emotion. The maid offered a brief, low curtsey.
"Follow me, Madame. The Empress Consort awaits."
The journey was a tour of contrasts.
