Minel and Isatia strolled down the marble staircase with its plush red carpet, chatting as they descended.
Inside the opera house, the dome soaring dozens of meters high was inlaid with a starry sky of lights. Countless crystals glistened under the lamps' caress, casting a gentle yet bright lattice of light over the burgundy carpet, weaving a colorful dreamscape.
Every few steps, the courteous and considerate staff of the Ikelite Opera House would guide the noble guests to their respective seats.
Their seats were easy to find, just straight ahead.
But once there, Isatia no longer held Minel's hand as intimately as before, instead walking beside her like close sisters-in-law.
"There are so many familiar faces indeed."
Isatia's gaze inadvertently swept over the VIP seats.
But none of them could recognize Minel since the puppet disguised as Migaya had already taken its place.
Gathered there were the elites and nobles of the upper echelons of Ikelite society.
