As Raika hurried down the shining hallway, her footsteps echoed against the marble floor, her heart pounding with urgency. The grand, high-ceilinged corridor was lined with portraits of her ancestors, their gazes seeming to follow her frantic movement. Sunlight filtered through the large windows, casting long shadows that danced with her every step.
Suddenly, Maria's voice called out from behind her, laced with concern. "Raika, my dear daughter, where are you going this time?" Maria's tone was a mix of warmth and apprehension as she leaned casually against the wall, her smile faltering slightly as she observed Raika's disheveled appearance.
