The elevator chimed, and the doors slid open into a different world.
For whatever reason, the twins changed position on my side. This time, Yuki was a step ahead, and Aki was slightly behind.
I looked forward.
Okay. Back to the hunt.
My senses dialed up to uncomfortable levels—scents sharper, footsteps louder, shadows darker. It was the kind of primal alertness that made the hairs on my arms stand straight, as if something were watching from just out of sight.
A nest of snakes.
The first thing I noted on this level was that the air felt lighter and touched with the faint scent of floral soap. The corridor beyond was wide and bright, lined with clean white walls and pale wood doors. Warm light pooled from overhead fixtures.
A few staff moved through the space, carrying baskets, clipboards, and cleaning carts.
Sako definitely hadn’t shown me this part.
As we stepped out, a woman in a simple blouse and slacks walked past with a tray of tea cups. When she saw us, she smiled and briefly bowed.
Then, she continued down the hall, humming under her breath.
Totally relaxed.
Totally unconcerned.
Totally enjoying her day.
Not spy energy at all.
We walked on.
Doors opened occasionally to reveal glimpses of small lounge spaces, staff bedrooms, and storage.
Laughter drifted from one of them, and the sound was soft and tired, like people letting themselves breathe after a long shift.
I glanced at Hiro. “This wing wasn’t in Sako’s tour.”
“It’s mostly a Scales-level so there would have been no need. Staff housing. Support people. Some lower-level guards. Kitchen workers who stay in the house overnight.”
“That makes sense.”
We passed a woman adjusting a framed print on the wall.
Across from her, an armed guard leaned against a doorframe and went over a list on a clipboard.
He lifted his view.
The twins gave him a look and his back straightened instantly.
He bowed at them and then us.
Hiro kept his voice low. “Some of my Claws’ top men are on this floor.”
“Ah. I see.”
Hiro slowed his pace just a little, giving me a glance from the corner of his eye—more calculating than casual. “Hmm. Isuppose I should break down the chain of command for you. It will help you tonight.”
My brow lifted. “Okay.”
