Shattered Innocence: Transmigrated Into a Novel as an Extra

The meal ended in a quiet clatter of silverware and soft murmurs. Plates were cleared by silent attendants with eerie synchronicity, and the warm light from the hovering chandelier dimmed slightly—as if sensing that frivolity had run its course and something heavier was stepping in to take its place.

Kaleran remained standing near the door, hands folded behind his back like a blade sheathed in protocol.

"Come," he said simply, voice once again pared down to its sharpest edge. "We begin with measurements."

The five stood, chairs sliding back in a near-unison that wasn't planned, but spoke of people who had all learned to read the same tension in the air. They followed Kaleran through the curving hallways of the Sanctum, the marble beneath their feet shifting hue subtly with the changing light—dusky gold to white steel—as they approached the outfitting chambers.

And there, they found it waiting.

A room not of luxury, but calculation.

Glass-paneled mirrors stood in a full circle formation, glowing softly with runes etched in delicate precision. Illusion-thread mannequins hovered midair, each ready to adapt and mimic the frame of the one standing before it. Enchanters and tailors—cloaked in storm-blue robes marked with the Academy crest—stood poised with floating scrolls, enchanted tape lines, and gloves etched with responsive thread.

"Each of you will be assigned to a master tailor," Kaleran said, gesturing to the row of figures awaiting them. "This is not just for appearances. You are not here to impress as yourselves. You are here as representatives of the Academy. Your presence at the Entrance Banquet is not just ceremonial—it is symbolic."

He let the words settle.

"You are commoners," he said bluntly, without venom but without apology. "And nobles will look for weakness. In stance. In speech. In silk."

A pause.

"That is how they wage their quietest wars—by making others feel lesser, without ever drawing a blade. The Academy will not allow you to walk into that room looking anything less than chosen."