The kingdom did not sleep that night.
From the northern mountains to the southern rivers.
From the capital to the smallest villages.
Everyone had heard it.
The crying woman.
The sorrowful voice that seemed to come from the heavens themselves.
And by dawn—
Fear had spread everywhere.
---
Inside the palace.
The Emperor had barely rested.
Several reports were already piled on his desk.
One after another.
The ministers' messengers had arrived before sunrise.
The Emperor sat quietly as the head spy finished his report.
"Your Majesty."
"The crying voice was heard throughout the entire kingdom."
The Emperor's expression darkened.
"Entire kingdom?"
"Yes."
"Every province has reported the same thing."
The spy lowered his head.
"People are frightened."
"Many temples are crowded."
"Some villages believe it is an omen."
The room became silent.
The Emperor's fingers tapped lightly against the desk.
This was becoming worse than he expected.
---
Meanwhile—
