II. Corridor

Elaine leaves the hall. Sound returns. Footsteps. Cloth brushing cloth. Soles against stone. The corridor stretches long and straight. Light from outside slips in, forming a pale band across the floor. As she walks, she steadies her breath. The rhythm has finally returned, yet it does not feel completely restored. Her footing is steady. Yet with every step, the floor feels slightly off. Somewhere deep within, water lingers. She does not know what it is. “Lieutenant Aldia.” A voice calls out. Major Curtis Harwood falls into step beside her, matching her pace. Deputy Commander of the Mage Corps— they had met before her assignment. His movement is quiet, effortless. “No issues?” Elaine draws one breath and answers. “No issues.” Curtis nods. Behind his glasses, his gaze softens. They proceed along the corridor. The light from outside grows slightly stronger. “…As scheduled.” For a moment his eyes turn to her, then forward again. “After this, there will be formalities with the corps.” Elaine nods. “How was the hall?” Curtis’s voice is light. Elaine pauses, just a little. The ritual hall— a place she often visited as a child. “…It was quiet.” Curtis lets out a small laugh. “Yes.” They continue walking. Ahead, a single figure comes into view. A tall man in deep navy uniform, standing perfectly still. The moment she sees him, something inside her shifts. Before their eyes meet, something already touches— wordless. Deep. The man is already looking at her. Curtis slows and takes a step back. The man approaches, his footsteps unwavering, and stops at a measured distance. “Colonel Valen,” Curtis speaks first. The man gives a slight nod. His gaze settles on Elaine— hawthorn-brown eyes. “This is Lieutenant Elaine Aldia.” Curtis says. The man replies shortly. “Lance Valen.” Silence. Elaine gives the smallest nod. Lance’s gaze remains on her, his expression unchanged. Then it lowers. “That is all,” he says briefly. Curtis steps forward. “Then we’ll proceed to the formalities.” His voice brings the moment back. Lance says nothing more. Elaine glances at him once more. He remains standing motionless in the same spot. She turns and walks on. Behind her, his footsteps remain still.