The torches along the corridors burned low, their flames swaying gently as the night wind slipped through the tall windows and stone arches. Most of the palace had fallen into sleep; servants had long retired to their quarters, and even the guards patrolling the halls moved with the slow quiet rhythm of men trying to stay awake through the long hours.
But outside, on the towering rooftops of the palace, someone was very much awake.
The Prince of Darkness stood balanced on the edge of a tall spire, looking down at the kingdom as though it were a stage meant purely for his amusement.
The moonlight painted the palace silver, stretching long shadows across the rooftops and courtyards. From here he could see the entire royal compound — the training grounds, the gardens, the barracks, and the endless maze of corridors beneath the stone roofs.
His golden eyes gleamed softly.
"So this is where my dear brother lives now."
His voice carried quiet amusement, almost playful.
