Chapter 18

Yet, despite the grandeur, she couldn't shake the realization that she had to find a way out. The palace was undoubtedly a maze of hidden passages and secret chambers. She needed to stay focused and vigilant.

Gathering her resolve, she embarked on her quest to find the exit. She tiptoed through the vast rooms, her footsteps echoing in the silence. Every now and then, she would open a door, only to find new corridors and hidden nooks.

With every passing second, she ventured deeper into the never-ending maze of a palace. And then, lo and behold, she stumbled upon a tiny, inconspicuous door. Her heart pounded like a jackhammer as she twisted the ancient knob. As she stepped outside, a flood of light engulfed her senses. It was like a courtroom, but on steroids.

There were hordes of people, each clutching folders, looking as clueless as she felt. They stood in neat lines, like obedient schoolchildren waiting for their principal to lead them on their first day. Aiyu's eyes darted around, desperately searching for an escape route. And then, there it was, a massive gate beckoning to her.

As she tiptoed behind the line of student-like people, she tried her best to blend in. With the borrowed broom in her hand, she swept the floor and whistled a tune, hoping to appear as nonchalant as possible. However, the stares and giggles from the people around her made it clear that she was not fooling anyone. Aiyu could feel their curiosity and speculation, but she remained undeterred.

Reaching the exit, Aiyu hesitated for a moment, looking back at the crowded courtroom. She wondered what was happening inside, who those people were, and why they seemed so orderly and obedient. But her curiosity was quickly overshadowed by her burning desire to escape the confinements of the palace.

As she approached the gate, a strong hand suddenly grabbed her by the back of her collar, yanking her back. Startled, she looked up and found herself face-to-chest with a manly and striking figure. The man, dressed in a mysterious black robe and sporting a pair of spectacles, peered down at her with a stern expression.