[Silthara Palace — Malika's Residency — Imperial Chamber — Night]
Night had settled heavily over Silthara Palace.
Iru carefully placed the twins into their cradle. Prince Zaryan had already fallen asleep, one tiny fist still curled against the edge of the cushion, while Princess Nyzara shifted once in her sleep before settling again with a quiet sigh.
Iru stepped back and bowed deeply.
"May Lord Urzan bless the prince and princess with a peaceful night," he said softly. Then he lifted his gaze to Levin. "And may he grant the same to you, Malika."
Levin did not answer at once.
He stood by the window and had barely blinked. The stillness around him was not calm...it was the kind that came when a mind was running too hard behind an unreadable face.
Iru hesitated. "Malika…"
"You may leave, Iru."
Iru bowed at once. "As you command."
