The space beyond is black. The light from the duty office carries across the threshold, but only as far as the armored screen that rises from floor to ceiling, shielding the rest of the room from view. Before the screen wait three of the naga, their serpentine heads nearly on a level with Machiko's chest. She bows to them respectfully. The beasts lower their heads a bit, but follow closely as Machiko advances through the doorway and steps around the armored screen. The door whispers shut behind her.