Officer Steele strode through the grand hallway, his boots echoing off the polished marble floors. The corridor was a testament to the empire's opulence, with towering columns of veined marble flanking either side, their capitals adorned with intricate gold leaf designs. Tapestries depicting great battles and mythical beasts hung between the columns, their rich colors a stark contrast to the pristine white walls.
'The emperor... certainly knows how to... flaunt his wealth,' Steele mused, his internal monologue punctuated by his characteristic pauses.
As he walked, his steely gaze swept over the assembled dignitaries and courtiers who lined the hallway. To the casual observer, Steele appeared every bit the imposing, charismatic figure he was known to be. His wide-brimmed hat cast a shadow over his eyes, adding an air of mystery to his already enigmatic presence.
