The mansion's basement studio sealed itself with a low mechanical hiss as the hidden elevator platform locked back into place, seamlessly transforming into an unassuming section of floorboards under Lina's control. Not even dust was left disturbed.
As they moved past wine racks and stacked crates of farming records, Richard glanced at Lina.
"You remember everything we talked about?"
Lina, now dressed in a simple yet refined beige cardigan, white inner blouse, and denim skirt, gave a short nod. Her long white hair was tied back in a low ponytail with a modest ribbon, giving her a soft, provincial look. The blue in her eyes had dimmed subtly — a trick she learned to prevent standing out.