Extra Chapter 1: “Doorway to Heaven”
Three years ago, on January 8, 12134, the Haunted Palace.
The palace’s residents were suddenly awakened in the middle of the night by a brilliant, intense green light. When they looked outside their windows, they were met with a sight that would be forever imprinted in their memories. This phenomenon, which they often called the “Doorway to Heaven,” was re-opening after 800 years. This moment held immense historical importance for everyone present.
“My goodness…”
Rene gasped in disbelief, covering her mouth, and quickly left her room. Once outside, she saw many servants emerging from their quarters, all gathering at the palace’s front entrance to witness the breathtaking event.
Rene skillfully made her way through the crowd without getting trampled. She quickly began searching for Jane, her close friend, and found her staring up at the sky in awe.
As Rene approached her friend, she caught snippets of conversation from the palace servants.
“A Traveler!”
“This is a historic moment, and we’re part of it! I can hardly believe it…”
“I wonder if they’ll give us anything of value…”
“I doubt it. The last Traveler who truly helped this world become better was the founder of United. None of these beings ever offer assistance. Hmph!”
“Well, it’s not their responsibility, nor are they obligated to do so.”
“This is still our world, they can’t just come and go as they please. They must contribute in some way.”
Rene found herself agreeing with the previous speaker. She believes that these Travelers shouldn’t have unrestricted access to their world. No matter how powerful they are, they have no right to disrupt their way of life.
‘It’s not that I have anything against magic or supernatural abilities in general…’
It’s the overwhelming fixation on them and the Travelers that distracts from other important issues. Conversations throughout this world—whether among commoners, nobles, or royalty—are dominated by discussions about these individuals and what they might bring. This constant chatter becomes increasingly exhausting over time.
‘I just wish for everyone to experience a sense of normalcy for once. But I can’t really talk.’
This is especially the case considering her profound admiration for The Father of Magic, who is a Traveler himself. While it is not this identity that she likes, it is still a fundamental part of who Pietas is.
Rene let out a soft breath as she continued her approach toward her close friend.
When she reached Jane, Rene lightly tapped her shoulder to get her attention. The two exchanged looks before turning their eyes back to the sky, eager not to miss any unfolding events.
The “Doorway to Heaven” was still opening, green light pouring through like liquid emerald, casting an otherworldly glow on their faces. The sight was as mesmerizing as the books describe.
No meteor had yet fallen. Still, they felt neither surprise nor worry, as this occurrence usually varied depending on the Traveler’s origin, as Pietas had explained, which was recorded in history and passed down from generations.
“What kind of person do you think will show up?”
Jane asked, her gaze still fixed on the emerald sky.
Rene responded with a contemplative hum, her brow furrowing slightly as she considered the question.
“Honestly? I just hope it’s someone who won’t stir up trouble.”
Someone who would quietly come and go, like the Traveler from 800 years ago who never revealed themselves but also never left their world. It is still unclear where they are or if they are alive today.
Rene has a deep dislike for Travelers, but she doesn’t possess the power or authority to stop them from coming to this realm or to force them to leave. As a result, she has opted to adjust to the situation instead of making a fuss about it.
“Hmm.”
Jane hummed as the sky pulsed. The beautiful woman turned her gaze toward the West Wing.
“Don’t you think His Imperial Highness Konstantinos and His Highness the First Prince are watching this view from the office as well?”
Rene tilted her head at the question as she also looked at what Jane was looking at. Since the West Wing was protected by illusions and several barriers, they couldn’t really see anything inside despite it being night.
“I’m curious too as to why His Imperial Highness didn’t seem panicked or interested about this but I guess he has always been that way. He is too different from Her Imperial Highness the First Princess.”
Since her arrival at the palace, she had yet to see His Imperial Highness Konstantinos show any change in his demeanor, not even once. His mother, the madam, died a year ago, but he has not displayed any signs of sorrow. He always seemed indifferent, making it no surprise that even a Traveler entering this world after 800 years failed to provoke any reaction from him.
In contrast, had it been Her Imperial Highness the First Princess, her curiosity would have driven her to investigate the situation, feigning ignorance while merely seeking a glimpse. This reminded Rene of the time when Her Imperial Highness the First Princess pretended to visit the Grand Library but was actually only in the Central Grounds to observe the members of the Church from around the world.
Jane chuckles, seemingly remembering the same memory as her.
The lively conversations came to an abrupt halt, replaced by gasps as a green meteor streaked down from the sky. The crowd collectively held their breath, their eyes glued to the meteor, eager to see where it would land.
“Is it just me, or is it coming this way...?”
A nearby servant whispered softly, her voice breaking the silence and drawing the attention of everyone around.
The servant then continued with her eyes wide, a mix of wonder and dread.
“Is it really coming this way!?”
“Is it…? I’m not sure…”
As the meteor drew closer, the crowd began to murmur, a wave of uncertainty washing over them. Rene could see the fear in their eyes, the way they shifted uneasily on their feet.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.
“I am convinced that it is heading in this direction!”
“Dear Pietas, please protect us!”
“We need to get back inside! It’s dangerous out here!”
Someone had shouted, their voice laced with urgency.
Panic erupted as the meteor approached the Imperial Grounds.
In the end, everyone hurried back indoors. The heavy doors closed behind them with a resounding thud, sealing them off from the outside world. Fortunately, the entrance was wide enough to allow everyone to enter without any issues. Their training in staying calm and organized during crises helped ensure that the return to the palace was smooth.
Rene looks up at the ceiling, where a beautiful chandelier sways as if it were in peril. The palace is protected by a powerful barrier, making it the safest place to be right now.
The meteor continued its descent, growing larger and more defined as it approached the ground. It was a brilliant shade of emerald, glowing with an otherworldly light that seemed to pulse in time with the heartbeat of the crowd.
To the relief of everyone, the meteor landed in Faye’s Garden, known as one of the most dangerous and heavily fortified places in the world. There is a chance it could render the Traveler unable to move, terminating the chance of them attacking anyone in the Imperial Grounds. If not, it might still cause enough harm to hinder their mobility. Nowadays, it seems that numerous people are close to creating a trap to capture these mysterious beings.
‘Although I don’t have a deep fondness for them, I can’t help but feel a certain curiosity.’
The allure of the unknown.
“Shall we go out?”
Rene tightened her grip on her robe and nodded.
Jane gently took her hand, and together they strolled back outside to watch the meteor hit the earth.
Crowds hurried outside with them to see the heart of the forest glowing green before it was swallowed by darkness, coinciding with the fading light of the sky.
The air was thick with uncertainty as everyone held their breath, yet nothing happened. In fact, the silence felt almost stifling.
Rene tightened her grip on Jane as she surveyed the area. The faces of those around her reflected her own anxiety, all waiting for an event that seemed just out of reach. Given that it had been a long time since a Traveler visited their world, their uncertainty was entirely understandable.
“What should we do…?”
“What can we do? We stay here.”
Benedict, the current Deputy Butler, spoke up, drawing the crowd’s attention. His striking features were marred by a frown as he addressed them directly.
“Everyone, please head back inside. The noise you’re making is disturbing those who are already burdened by their duties. Furthermore, have you considered that His Highness the First Prince is currently in discussions with His Imperial Highness the 14th Prince? Your commotion is interrupting their important conversation.”
It is probably incorrect to claim this, as the office of the Imperial Prince, or perhaps the entire West Wing is likely fitted with noise-canceling barriers that would block out any external disturbances. However, this could be Benedict’s way of signaling to others to keep quiet.
“But what will happen now?”
It’s completely understandable that everyone is shocked and anxious. Being so close to the Traveler naturally stirs up unease.
Many people probably want to visit Faye’s Garden, however, the current circumstances outside the Haunted Palace may make using the Imperial Grounds coaches impractical due to the ongoing chaos. Furthermore, trying to use a contact mirror might not be effective, as many individuals are attempting to access it at the same time, potentially resulting in complications from increased anxiety.
Benedict took a deep breath and spoke with conviction.
“What happens next is out of our hands. I trust that His Majesty the Emperor is already taking steps to ensure the Traveler is not a threat to anyone. All we can do now is wait.”
Although Benedict claimed that, Rene doubts the Empire’s motives concerning the Traveler. She suspects that instead of perceiving the Traveler as a possible danger, the Empire would rather the individual stay within the boundaries of the Imperial Grounds if they decide to show themselves. It wouldn’t surprise her if, regardless of the Traveler’s actions, celebrations and feasts were held across the empire the next day.
Rene asked Jane, who seemed as composed as ever, even though she was grappling with her own anxiety after the close encounter with the meteor near the Imperial Grounds.
“I can’t seem to sleep tonight. How about you, Jane?”
“I’m not feeling sleepy anymore. Would you like to go to the tea room and relax?”
The tea rooms on the third floor of the South Wing are open to everyone. His Imperial Highness Konstantinos created this space for the servants to relax.
This is one of the few His Imperial Highness qualities that she truly admires. While he may often seem aloof and lacking in emotion, he sincerely cares for everyone in the palace.
“Shall we go?”
The two friends headed to the tea room, chatting to pass the time. Eventually, around 3 a.m., they started to feel tired and decided to return to their quarters.
The next morning, it was announced that the Traveler had chosen to remain anonymous, however, a banquet and festival would be held in their honor to warmly welcome them to this world.
“A bonus for six months is being offered!?”
“Is that really true!?”
Rene paused her tasks when she caught wind of the conversation. Turning around, she spotted two maids chatting while wiping the windows.
With a friendly smile, she approached them.
“Hello there!”
The two initially displayed expressions of discontent, however, upon noticing her uniform and visage, they promptly performed a courteous bow and addressed her.
“Miss Rene.”
Based on their uniforms, they are Level 5 maids. The levels indicate their ranks, a system that is strictly upheld within the Imperial Grounds. One can easily identify a maid’s rank by their uniforms and the way they style their hair.
Level 5 maids are newcomers to the palace, having served for one to six months, which means they have not yet fully integrated into the system. This initial period acts as a trial to evaluate their suitability for continued service. Level 4 maids are considered regular staff with contracts, but they are not allowed to attend to distinguished guests. Level 3 maids often gain entry to the palace through connections, typically coming from struggling noble families or merchant backgrounds.
Level 2 maids, like Rene, are responsible for serving important guests, including nobles and merchants. When there are no visitors, they usually focus on cleaning and maintaining significant bedrooms, such as the chamber of His Imperial Highness in the main palace. Lastly, Level 1 maids are in charge of training Level 5 maids and supervising the work of all staff members. Although they are called “maids,” they do not engage in cleaning duties and primarily serve members of the Imperial Family during their visits to the palace.
‘It has been almost six years since I started working at the Imperial Grounds, and I still find it challenging to adjust.’
This may be due to her background as a commoner for two decades, during which she experienced disdain from both merchants and aristocrats. As a result, it feels somewhat surreal to be treated with the same respect typically reserved for those of noble birth.
Despite the discomfort bubbling within her, Rene decided to ask about the reason for her approach.
“How did you find out about the bonus?”
As a level 2 maid, Rene has accumulated a fair amount of wealth, enough to buy a modest home and a piece of land in the capital. However, having grown up in poverty and carrying the weight of her parents’ debts, Rene has a deep-seated attachment to money.
“Oh, His Imperial Highness and His Highness the First Prince have been summoned to the Banyan Palace. Before they left, His Imperial Highness instructed the Head Butler to grant a bonus to all staff for a period of six months.”
“Additionally, in line with His Majesty the Emperor’s order, our salaries will be doubled for three years in celebration of the arrival of the Traveler.”
The other added.
Rene felt a rush of excitement as she tightened her grip. Responsible for managing the guest rooms in the East Wing, she often found herself missing chances to see the Imperial Prince and was frequently delayed in receiving updates from the North Wing.
“I see. That’s great news. Thank you for telling me!”
“You’re welcome, Miss Rene.”
With that, she continued her way to the dining area to eat her lunch with Jane and her dear lover.
Rene doesn’t like Travelers and how they often come and go in there as they please. However, that day, he couldn’t find herself to hate them that much anymore. Perhaps “Doorway to Heaven” was true and they really are from heaven.