The Manor of a Thousand Thresholds
The Return of Kageyori
The morning is still young when Kageyori returns.
He is not alone.
At his side walks a young woman whose presence immediately draws the eye, without ever imposing itself. Elegant and refined, she moves with a calm assurance, almost soothing. Her long black hair, silky and slightly wavy, catches the light with subtle bluish reflections, as if dusted with discreet starlight. Her fair complexion, delicately rosy, highlights sky-blue eyes that are both gentle and sparkling.
Her ears, just slightly pointed, reveal an elven heritage. A blended humanity, harmonious and natural.
She smiles warmly — a sincere, open smile.
— I’m delighted to meet you, she says softly.
— Amelyana Faucheflor.
There is an immediate kindness about her, almost reassuring, as though her presence alone were enough to calm the space around her. No distance, no stiffness, despite an elegance that clearly belongs to high society.
Amelyana inclines her head slightly, then adds with disarming ease:
— Kageyori has spoken to me a great deal about you.
She pauses briefly, choosing her words.
— About your curiosity, first and foremost. About the courage that led you to undertake journeys many would consider hazardous… sometimes even dangerous.
Her gaze softens, tinged with quiet admiration.
— He also told me about your patience. About that rare ability to accompany a mind as meticulous as his. A faint smile lights her face. — Kageyori always sees his ideas through. His hypotheses as well. Few are willing to keep pace without growing weary.
She studies you for a moment, kindly.
— That says a great deal.
Before you have time to respond, Kageyori speaks.
— I must unfortunately excuse myself, he says calmly. Urgent matters require my attention. But I will return for dinner. Several distinguished guests will be present.
His gaze briefly meets Amelyana’s.
— She will keep you company until then.
Then, in the composed tone that defines him:
— You are in good hands.
The Discreet Passage
Kageyori then leads you toward a more discreet entrance, set apart from the main accessways. A sober, almost hidden route, reserved for officiants, stewards, and those authorized to ensure the smooth functioning of the manor.
The room you enter is warm and well lit. Of moderate size, it contrasts with the immensity hinted at beyond, yet never feels secondary. One can move freely here, without brushing past others or feeling confined.
The decor is understated, yet elegant. Green plants bring a sense of life, while carefully selected paintings adorn the walls. A small reception desk welcomes arrivals: several hosts and hostesses calmly guide the officiants, record information, and exchange words in hushed tones.
A small lounge allows one to wait comfortably. Beverages are available, along with books freely accessible. The space is animated by the steady comings and goings of authorized personnel, but never feels restless.
Kageyori stops.
— I must leave you here.
He then turns to Amelyana.
— I am counting on you.
— As always, she replies with a serene smile.
After a few words of farewell, Kageyori departs, leaving behind an impression of quiet mastery… and an intact sense of mystery.
Between Two Moments
For a moment, you remain there.
Observing the room. Listening to soft footsteps and calm voices. Allowing yourself to drift into a kind of reverie, as though time itself had paused.
The small room connects directly to the officiants’ reception area, and through this discreet passage one can sense an entire silent organization at work behind the visible grandeur of the manor.
Then, almost imperceptibly, you return to yourself.
Amelyana is still at your side.
— Come, she says softly. The true heart of the manor lies just beyond.
She leads you into a discreet corridor that connects directly to the main space.
Only a few steps are needed.
The space suddenly opens.
The great entrance hall awaits you.