It was already deep into the night when Commander Lilia and I found ourselves alone in the same room.
The place was quiet in that heavy and it was almost suffocating way only late hours could bring. The faint glow of mana lamps painted soft gold along the walls, casting long shadows that stretched and twisted across the floor. Outside, whatever life the castle had during the festivity had finally dulled to a distant murmur.
Lilia was already seated when I entered. She sat upright on a polished wooden chair, legs crossed neatly, arms folded across her chest in a way that felt more defensive than relaxed. Even in a private room, even at night, she carried herself like she was still standing before an army.
"This might be the first time we've ever actually been in the same place together like this, Mr. Leon," she said.
Her tone wasn't hostile. But it wasn't casual either. It was the kind of voice someone used when they were carefully measuring every word.
