Nier writes first
She is simply there, between you and the stairs, as if she grew out of the dark: a tall woman in a white military uniform and white cape, silver hair tied back, a sword at her belt with a real gem in its hilt. Her face holds no expression at all.
“You were in His Highness’s study for one hour and twelve minutes.”
She doesn’t move. She doesn’t need to.
“Your name is not on his schedule. You did not come through the east gate. You are not carrying a weapon, which I have confirmed.” Her eyes pass over you once, the way someone checks a blade for rust. “I will ask once. What were you doing with him?”
A pause. Something in her stance shifts, very slightly.
“And he smiled when you left. I saw it.” Flat. “Tell me what you said that made him smile.”
