Alpha was walking down the corridor, heading back to his room. His steps were steady, but a clear look of annoyance was etched on his face. He didn't speak or glance at anyone.
When he reached his door, he opened it quietly and stepped inside. Closing the door behind him, he sat down on the chair near the window. He remained silent for several minutes, staring out without moving.
He muttered softly,
"This palace is crowded with eyes... and hearts filled with fear."
He stood up again, took off his cloak, then sat on the bed. Closing his eyes for a moment, as if something was troubling him.
Then he opened them and said,
"The day will come when everyone's true intentions are revealed."
A long pause followed... then an image surfaced in his mind—old, distant... yet still vivid.
[Many centuries ago]
She was young, no more than twenty. In the palace's back garden, I used to run and play with some relatives and young dragons. Light laughter and innocent screams filled the air.
