"The architecture of the upper levels is less refined, but fundamentally more honest."
Krave murmured, her voice stripped entirely of its usual, manic theatricality.
"The lower courtyards and the Sapphire Gardens were designed to awe. They were grown to remind the ocean of my presence. But the apex of the palace was built solely for observation."
I analysed the shifting geometry of the corridors as we ascended a long, sweeping ramp of polished obsidian.
"Observation requires a vantage point that is disconnected from the subject."
I noted quietly, keeping my gaze focused on the flawless, unblemished stone ahead of us.
"If the lower levels were built to project power, I assume the highest balcony was built to escape it."
Krave let out a soft, genuine laugh, the sound lacking its usual predatory edge.
"You dissect structural intent the same way you dissect a culinary profile, Austin."
