Hallway to Adelheid's Room — Midnight, One Day After Strategic Meeting
Kaito was reviewing final reports when a soft knock at the door interrupted him.
"Come in."
Adelheid entered, still in full uniform despite the hour.
But something in her expression was different.
Not the military commander. Not the cold strategist.
Something more vulnerable.
"Commander. I need to talk to you. In private."
Her voice was firm but there was a touch of... nervousness.
Kaito set down the documents immediately.
"Of course. Here or...?"
"In my room. Please."
That was unusual.
Adelheid never invited anyone to her personal space. Not even him.
Kaito nodded, standing.
They walked in silence through empty hallways. Night guards saluted them but didn't ask questions.
They reached the door Kaito had passed a thousand times but never crossed.
Adelheid unlocked it, holding it open.
"Come in."
Kaito entered.
The room completely surprised him.
