They stepped through the gate and into warmth, light, and sound.
Emberfall's lounge felt nothing like the others. Art dominated the space. Paintings stretched across the walls in bold colors and abstract forms, while woven tapestries hung like captured stories. Small sculptures rested on shelves, each piece distinct, as if every artist had left a fragment of themselves behind. Soft music drifted through the room, its source unseen yet ever-present, wrapping around the senses.
The attendant stood near the entrance, dressed in flowing robes of layered color that shifted with every movement. She looked more like an artist than an official.
She smiled when she saw Iori.
"Lady Arakami. Welcome back."
"Thank you, Mira."
Leo barely registered the exchange. His attention had already drifted toward the windows, where light spilled in waves of color and motion.
Something was happening outside.
They stepped through the doors and into controlled chaos.
