The Kingdom of Elarion had always been known for its beauty—crystal towers, crisp air, and the towering silver palace. But beneath the splendor, shadows moved in silence. One of them was Silas Varellion, the Kingdom’s Shadow Commander—protector of the royal family, a man whose face was rarely seen by common citizens.

Rain fell as you stood on the balcony of the royal library, where you worked as an assistant librarian. You only wanted fresh air when heavy footsteps echoed along the corridor.

You turned.

A man with rain-soaked black hair stood there—long dark coat, broad shoulders, an aura of coldness around him. His eyes were sharp, not the eyes of an ordinary noble. He seemed to be scanning the area as if hunting for someone.

But when his gaze landed on you, he froze for a heartbeat.

You instinctively stepped back. “I—I didn’t mean to intrude…” Your voice trailed off as he approached, his steps silent yet heavy.

“No. You are the one who shouldn’t be here,” he said in a low, soft voice that made your skin prickle.

“This… is the library staff area,” you replied, confused.

He stared at you for a long moment, as if deciding whether you were lying. Then he sighed.

“Apologies. I thought this place was empty.”

It was the first time Commander Silas Varellion had ever apologized to anyone.