Jin-Ho crossed the gates without any sense of relaxation, even if the palace loomed in the distance. The memories of the struggle hung over him like iron chains, making every step feel more burdensome. Jin-Ho had no notion how to interpret what he had seen, and Zhen was gone, lost to the shadows he had attempted to flee.
That night, he perched on the edge of his bed and gazed at his sword. His life had been saved by Zhen. However, the guilt persisted—should he have taken additional action to save his friend? Or was it too late already?
He could still hear Zhen's whispered words: "Live for something more." However, Jin-Ho was still unable to see what that was.
Crown Prince Tae-Min stood in front of the assembled courtiers in the main hall. The prince announced, "Jin-Ho, you will be promoted to captain of my guard for your bravery and loyalty."
It was a magnificent honor, but it had a cost. Jin-Ho bowed to the prince, followed by suspicious and envious eyes. Seo Kyung was one of them, and he grinned icily, knowing that his moment to attack was drawing near.
Jin-Ho heard whispers in the hallway that evening, which were stories that Seo Kyung had spread regarding Jin-Ho's previous ties to Yun Zhen and the assassin guild. These rumors were bound to develop into a terrible storm in due time.
The intensity of Kaida's rage was like a wildfire throughout the assassin guild. Her eyes were flaming as she slammed a wine cup against the wall. She growled, "He spared him." "Even after everything, Zhen was unable to break free from the past."
Master Chu sat quietly, grinning knowingly as he observed Kaida. "Now?" he inquired.
"Now?" With malice in her voice, Kaida muttered. "I'll make sure they both pay." It's Zhen's time. Jin-Ho will follow.
An alliance with Seo Kyung was already part of her strategy, which would guarantee that Jin-Ho's ascent would collapse similarly to Zhen's.
Mei Lin discovered Jin-Ho in a dimly lit hallway, her face solemn. "Jin-Ho, they're coming for you. Kaida and Seo Kyung won't stop till you fall.
Weariness sunk deep in Jin-Ho's bones as he rested against the chilly stone wall. "What do you recommend? Run?
Mei Lin's eyes grew softer, but they were still devoid of sympathy. "Fight. However, fight wisely. If you battle alone, you won't make it.
Jin-Ho laughed sourly. "Since Zhen left, I've been by myself."
Mei Lin took a step forward and spoke in a powerful yet quiet voice. "No longer. I agree with you.
Sitting in the barracks, Jin-Ho gazed at his sword resting on the table. He had held onto ideas that were out of step with his reality for far too long. The prince's uncertainties, Mei Lin's cautions, and Zhen's decisions had demonstrated to him that honor alone was insufficient for survival.
He had to fight wisely. He had to adopt his adversaries' perspective.
There was a fresh resolve in his step as he got up from the table. The Jin-Ho had vanished from the palace. He was replaced by a warrior who was prepared to battle with both power and strategy.
Seo Kyung and Kaida were going to discover how foolish their belief that they could break him was.