The Imperial Palace had become unusually quiet.
For the first time in many days, no alarming reports arrived from the border.
No strange deaths.
No mysterious illnesses.
No whispers of restless spirits haunting the night.
The palace servants walked through the corridors with lighter steps, their tense expressions finally easing.
Even the guards, who had spent weeks doubling patrols, allowed themselves to breathe.
To everyone else—
It seemed the worst had passed.
Yet...
Inside the Imperial Study, a heavy silence lingered.
The Emperor stood before the open window, his hands clasped behind his back as he gazed into the moonlit palace gardens.
The cool night breeze carried the scent of blooming plum blossoms.
Normally, such a peaceful night would have calmed him.
Tonight...
It did the opposite.
His instincts refused to rest.
A ruler who had survived countless political conspiracies learned long ago that the most dangerous enemies never attacked while everyone was alert.
