Then, they reached near the castle. As they passed through its gate, a sudden brilliance swept over them-like a radiant breath of light that set the halls aglow, as if the castle itself was awakening to their arrival. It wasn't only the light; it was the overwhelming beauty that unfolded before their eyes, reaching out to seize their breath and hold their hearts still.
The interior stretched out before them like a grand cathedral, its vastness were revealing itself with solemn grace, as though the walls themselves were lifting their voices in silent hymn. A vaulted ceiling soared high above, its ribbed arches reaching skyward like the outstretched ribs of some slumbering giant, holding the weight of the heavens with silent strength. Tall stained-glass windows lined the walls, their colors spilling like gentle whispers across the pale stone floor, while a great rose window at the far end poured its shimmering hues into the hall, as if painting it with light.
A wide stone staircase climbed ahead, flanked by solid balustrades like steadfast sentinels, leading to towering wooden doors that loomed with the weight of history, as though it was carved for the passage of kings. Along the walls, rows of columns held aloft the upper galleries, their arches adorned with flowerpots and greenary that spilled gently downward, softening the cold marble with a touch of breath and living color. Golden chandeliers glimmered overhead, their warm light dancing hand in hand with the glow of stained glass, while wall sconces flickered softly against the carved stone pillars, as if breathing life into their ancient faces.
Inside the castle, it was more than just a grand hall-every stone and beam were seeming to pulse with life, watching silently as they moved through.
Arashi's jaw nearly hit the floor. His eyes darted around, shining with childlike wonder as he spun in circles, trying to take in every detail.
"This is insane…!" he blurted out, half-laughing, half-shouting, like someone seeing magic for the first time.
Beside him, Emi moved slower, her eyes were tracing the windows, the stairs, the glow. Her usual seriousness softened just slightly, though she held her composure far better than Arashi. She didn't raise her voice, but the queit awe on her face spoke louder than her words.
The princess glanced back, her steps slowing slightly. A soft, knowing smile touched her lips-as if their wonder had brought her a queit joy, even on such a heavy day.
"I'm glad you like it," she said softly.
They stepped down the last of the stairs, their feet landing on the grand entrance floor. Inside, people were busy with their own work, the air filled with movement and quiet chatter. But the moment they noticed the princess, they stopped. Their head lowered in deep respect for her, and the entrance hall had fell into a hush.
The princess responded with a soft nod and a warm smile, lowering her head just slightly in return. It was a gentle sign that they could continue their tasks. One by one, people went back to their duties, though their eyes were still shone with admiration.
From among them, a guard approached near the princess. He knelt respectfully before her and spoke in a steady voice.
"Your Highness, are these two also survivors of the monster rampage?"
The princess shook her head lightly.
"No, they are my friends. They'll be staying here with us for a few days."
The guard raised his head. "Then, shall I lead them to their rooms, Your Highness?"
The princess smiled and shook her head again.
"No, it's fine. I'll show them the castle and their rooms myself. For now, I want you to focus on helping the survivors. They might need your support."
The guard placed his hand over his chest in a solemn salute.
"As you wish, Your Highness." With that, he rose and left to carry out her orders.
Turning back to Arashi and Emi, the princess clasped her hands behind her back, leaned forward with a touch of playfulness, and gave them a beaming smile.
"Come, I'll give you a tour of this castle."
Then, they walked down the grand stairs into the main hall. Maids were sweeping the floors while guards carefully escorted survivors to rest. When they noticed the princess, they bowed their heads slightly in respect. The princess returned the gesture with a graceful nod before leading Arashi and Emi onward.
Then, they entered the dining hall, which was decorated beautifully. Long tables stretched across the room, covered with rich cloth, shining plates, and golden candleholders. Servants hurried back and forth with trays, placing food and drinks on the tables in careful order. The fragrance of warm bread and roasted meat hung in the air, making Arashi's nose twitch.
As they left the hall, Arashi's eyes grew wider with every step through the towering arches and echoing corridors. The walls were lined with portraits of past rulers—the kings, queens, and ancestors of the royal line—painted with such detail that it felt like as if their gazes were following him. Suits of armor stood like silent guardians along the walls, and long carpets stretched across polished marble floors.
"This place is huge!" Arashi exclaimed, spinning around in awe.
At the end of the hall, where the corridor opened into the courtyard, two guards stood on duty, their posture stiff and motionless as sentinels. They greeted the princess and gave respectful bows to both Arashi and Emi. Finally, they stepped into the courtyard. Sunlight streamed down on fountains and blooming flower gardens, while birds circled overhead. The gentle sound of running water softened the heavy air that lingered from earlier.
Arashi spread his arms wide and grinned.
"Ahh, if I lived here, I'd never leave! Maybe I should just stay forever and become the king!"
Emi shot him a glance.
"Don't be stupid. A fool like you wouldn't last a day as king."
Arashi pouted while looking at Emi, but before he could argue with Emi because of it, the princess laughed at their exchanged words.
Arashi glanced at her and said,
"Why are you laughing?"
The princess replied to him with a gentle smile.
"You guys remind me of siblings."
After hearing that, Arashi and Emi both shouted at once.
"No wayyyy!"
She laughed again; her voice was ringing like a bell that was carrying through the bright courtyard.
Then, they came into a hall lined with many rooms. The princess walked ahead, her hands neatly folded behind her back as she led them down the corridor. After some moment, they halted in front of one of the doors.
She turned to Arashi and Emi, her smile was calm and gentle.
"We didn't introduce ourselves to each other, did we?"
Placing her hand lightly on her chest, she said,
"My name is Lily. And yours?"
Arashi grinned, pointing at himself.
"I'm Arashi."
Emi answered shortly, her tone was cool as always.
"Emi."
Before the princess could speak another word, a sudden weight slammed onto her body, pressing against her like an invisible hand determined to crush the breath from her chest. It was heavy-far too heavy, like a crushing weight that tried to bury her where she stood. Her breath turned ragged as her lungs tightened, every inhale of hers was a sharp struggle. Her body burned inside, heat spread through every corner of her body.
Her mind screamed only one thought:
Oh no! Not again!