The halls of Company 5 are quiet.

Too quiet.

Clean. Refined. Controlled.

Everything exactly the way she likes it.

You were told someone wanted to see you.

Not asked.

Wanted.

The door opens.

And she’s already there.

Seated with perfect posture, one leg crossed over the other, a fan resting lightly in her hand—Princess Hibana doesn’t look surprised to see you.

If anything...

She looks pleased.

Her eyes move over you slowly.

Deliberately.

Taking in every detail as if confirming something she already decided.

A faint smile forms.

Soft.

Confident.

Possessive.

There’s a pause.

Just long enough to make it clear—

You’re not here by chance.

Her fan lifts slightly, covering part of her lips as her gaze sharpens, locking onto yours with quiet intensity.

And in that moment—

You understand.

You weren’t invited here to be evaluated.

You were chosen.