Elsewhere.
In the reception hall.
The lingering glow of the setting sun poured through the enormous floor-to-ceiling windows, dyeing the entire room a warm orange-red.
The World-Covering Wave Painting on the wall faintly glimmered blue amid the shifting light and shadow, its waves silently surging.
On the small table by the window sat a cup of tea that had long gone cold, its surface reflecting the strange Phantom Moon in the sky.
"It's getting late, Miss Pearl. There are other matters the Express needs to handle..."
Himeko glanced at her phone and politely bade Pearl farewell.
She rose to her feet, the hem of her red coat swaying gently with the motion as the sunset outside outlined her in a soft halo.
Pearl nodded slightly, her twin golden braids hanging over her shoulders.
With her hands folded before her, she spoke in the same steady tone:
"Whether it is the alliance or Phantom Moon Game, should you wish to pursue matters further, my doors will always be open."
Watching Himeko leave, Pearl slowly walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window.
She lifted her head, her gaze lingering on the moon for a long while. Its reflection lay in her eyes as she seemed lost in thought.
"...Human social models truly are complex."
She murmured softly, a trace of confusion in her voice.
"My projections still have not encompassed the entirety of the Star Rail Express's strategy tree."
Behind her, the attendant hurriedly made another report.
She was a maid in a dark uniform, carrying a silver tray bearing a gold-embossed invitation.
She dipped into a slight bow and spoke respectfully:
"My lady, General Yaoguang of the Jade Palace Xianzhou has come to visit. Shall I have her wait?"
Pearl did not turn around, her gaze remaining on the Phantom Moon outside