Javier walked out from his father's private chamber, the heavy wooden door closing behind him with a quiet thud. Marcellus and Cedric remained inside, likely receiving their own missions or maybe more of their usual fatherly "praise."
He walked down the long corridor slowly, hands in his pockets, deep in thought.
"I'll handle this one alone. No Liana. No Gloria. It's a quick mission, no need to risk them. I'll just sweep the area, clean it up, and come home before dinner."
As he rounded the corner near the eastern hall, he passed by a familiar face—a dark elf maid standing quietly near one of the pillars.
Javier blinked. "Oh… Lithia? Waiting for Marcellus?"
She gave a soft smile and nodded. "Yes, young master."
Javier gave a slight wave and continued walking down the hall.
He reached near his room door when.
"Young master."
The voice came from behind him.
Javier turned, and his eyes widened. Standing just a few steps away was Lithia—again.
