Trafalgar pulled the hood over his head once more.
Darian rose from his seat and said, "Come. I'll take you there."
Trafalgar stood, and Caelum moved after him in silence, as constant as a shadow.
Darian reached the door first. He opened it only a little and checked the corridor with care before stepping out. After a brief glance to both sides, he gave Trafalgar a small nod.
The three of them left the office together.
They walked deeper beneath the castle, through passages and inner halls buried under the visible structure above. This part of House Thal'zar did not carry the weight of noble display. It felt older, quieter, built for endurance rather than appearance. Their footsteps ran along the stone and faded into the tunnels ahead. There were no servants nearby, no maids crossing with trays, no soldiers posted in sight. Darian had chosen this route precisely because few people had any reason to step here.
After a while, Trafalgar spoke.
