Chapter 106 – The Half-Truth IV

The castle had grown eerily silent after midnight. The grand halls—once filled with laughter, music, and endless chatter—now lay in a state of peaceful exhaustion. The remnants of the celebration were scattered about: half-finished goblets, toppled plates, and the faint scent of spiced wine lingering in the air. Servants tiptoed through the corridors, cleaning the remains, preparing for tomorrow, extinguishing the last of the lanterns, and allowing the kingdom to rest finally.

On the balcony overlooking the vast city below, Shawn stood alone. The cool night breeze ruffled his cloak as he leaned against the railing, lost in thought. The festivities had ended, yet his mind remained restless—burdened by the past and uncertain of the future.

Footsteps approached from behind. The sound was measured, deliberate… yet unmistakably familiar.

“So, the Guardian can’t sleep either?” came the voice of King Zhao.

Shawn