Night had settled heavily over the Shen residence, and with it came a silence so complete that the entire estate seemed less like a home and more like a tomb built to contain dangerous thoughts.
Inside the General's private study, the air was thick with schemes of treason.
Shen Han stood beside the wide strategy table, his gaze fixed upon his father.
General Shen had just returned from the imperial court, where a single misplaced word could have cost him not only his rank but his life. Yet there was nothing in the older man's posture to suggest the strain of such danger. His movements remained steady and calm as he poured himself a cup of tea.
The calmness unsettled Shen Han more than anger ever could have.
"Father," he said at last, unable to keep the unease from creeping into his voice. "What is the next move?"
