Horizons

"Hey," she said, pointing towards the southern window. "What's that?"

Senna gazed outside, and frowned. "Wha..?"

Meridian Primus was an island state surrounded by ocean. The road that Mr Katori had driven on the other day was the western entrance. There was also an eastern entrance on the other end of the island, leading towards the eastern countries.

To the south of Meridian Primus, however, was a huge expanse of forest. Nothing but trees and wildlife inhabited the area… at least, that was what was drawn on the maps.

A massive amusement park had set root in the forests, gleaming splendidly amongst the trees. Even in the dead of night, the roller coaster was still operating, speeding along a metal loop like it was carrying a host of excited guests.

At the very centre of the park was an obsidian pillar almost as tall as the Ferris wheel. Curiously, it didn't seem to serve any purpose at all. In fact, its existence seemed to detract from the aesthetics of the park as a whole.

"Was that there before?" asked Ophelia, puzzled. "I don't recall seeing it on our way up."

"Never seen it in my life," said Senna. She looked spooked. "Sure as hell wasn't here an hour ago either."

Nero stifled a yawn and gestured to the elevators. "We're not going to solve any mysteries tonight. Let's go back and think about this tomorrow - if we all make it through the appraisals."

As soon as the words left his mouth, he regretted it immediately. Senna's expression, which was filled with wonder from seeing the amusement park, was suddenly flooded with dark trepidation. Even the reflections dancing around in her eyes seemed to grow dim.

"Way to ruin the mood, Nero," said Ophelia, shaking her head and patting Senna on the shoulder. "We should leave you here to take the elevator down on your own."

Of course, Ophelia's words were nothing more than an empty threat, and Nero knew it - but it wasn't wise to call her bluff just then. For all his intelligence, Nero wasn't the best at reading people, and he had no idea if he had genuinely hurt Senna or not.

"It's fine," said Senna quietly. "If I don't get in, I'll just become a tour guide or something. And when that happens, I'm gonna charge you extra for that remark, Nero."

A small smile lifted the corners of Nero's mouth as they entered the elevator. This much, at least, he knew was a joke. "You're gonna make it in, Senna. We'll all make it in. Have faith."