Chapter 23: The Hidden Assassin

Scarlett followed the false guard through the western wing of the palace.

The noise from the banquet faded behind her. Music, shouting, and the metallic movement of imperial guards became distant echoes as she entered a maze of narrow corridors lit by only a few lan

Chapter 24: Duel in the Garden

By the time Scarlett and Arthur returned to the banquet hall, the dead eunuch’s body had been removed.

The doors remained sealed, and every servant was being questioned. The nobles had returned to their seats under imperial command, though fear and suspicion had repl

Chapter 25: The Yandere’s Promise

Spring arrived three months later.

White blossoms covered the trees surrounding the Regent King’s estate, and warm sunlight reflected from the black-tiled roofs. The courtyards that had once seemed severe and lifeless were filled with new growth.

Arthur stood ben