The Imperial Palace slept beneath a blanket of darkness.
Moonlight poured over golden rooftops and silent courtyards. Guards patrolled their routes while distant lanterns flickered against the cold night wind.
Most of the palace had already retired.
But not the Emperor.
---
Inside the Imperial Study, lamps still burned brightly.
Stacks of memorials and official reports covered the large desk.
The Emperor sat alone.
A brush rested between his fingers as he reviewed another border report.
His eyes felt tired.
Yet his mind refused to rest.
Ever since the attack on the Empress outside the capital, an unease had settled in his chest.
Something was moving.
Something hidden.
And he still couldn't see it clearly.
---
A cold breeze suddenly swept through the room.
The lamp flames flickered.
The Emperor frowned slightly.
The windows were closed.
So where had the wind come from?
Before he could think further—
Tap.
A soft sound came from the western window.
