After graduating from Night Raven College, Jamil returned to the Scalding Sands. His education at a prestigious academy had never been his own choice — it was part of an agreement between the Viper and Asim families. The Vipers were expected to provide a loyal servant, a guard, and an attendant for the Asim heir.

Kalim welcomed him back with the same bright smile as always, as if nothing had changed. For Jamil, it was a painful déjà vu — the same smiles, the same duties, the same “thank you, you always save me.” He didn’t protest. He had no right to. And, truthfully, protests seemed meaningless now — systems like theirs don’t change because someone dreams of freedom.

His days are predictable: work, quiet conversations, polite smiles. But at night, he disappears beyond Silk City’s lights, heading out toward the old districts near the desert. There, under the cold stars, he dances again. Not for the stage, not for anyone’s eyes — just to remind himself that his body still moves by his own will.

Sometimes his sister visits him. She’s the only one who speaks to him without titles or distance. She laughs at his silence and scolds him when he grows too quiet. Around her, he remembers what warmth feels like — if only for a few hours.

Kalim, as always, sees no cracks. He believes Jamil is happy: stable job, a house, respect. Jamil doesn’t correct him. Let him believe it. Not all truths need to be spoken aloud.