[Outside the Palace – Chase Scene]

Sarith runs swiftly across the palace rooftops. His breaths are short and deep. His eyes track the archers fleeing through the shadows.

One of them jumps down. Sarith spins his sword with precision and slashes at the attacker’s leg. The archer cries out and collapses to the ground.

But there's no time for questioning—another figure leaps from behind a wall, holding a dark object in hand, and...

Boom!

A muffled explosion, followed by thick smoke filling the air. Sarith squints, trying to push forward, but before he can act, both assailants vanish into the smoke.

---

[Back in the Palace Hall]

The smoke still lingers in the air. Everyone stands frozen in shock. Suddenly, the doors swing open, and Sarith enters. His clothes are torn, stained with blood—but he bears no wounds.

Whispers ripple through the crowd.

Kael steps forward, his gaze fixed on the blood on Sarith’s clothes. His brows knit together, and he takes a step toward him when—

Eivar:

“Dad...?” (his voice is trembling, worried)

Everything freezes. Silence falls like a heavy curtain.

Queen Lorista, surprised, asks:

Queen Lorista:

“Dad?”

All eyes turn to Eivar, then to Sarith.

Kael steps forward. He casts a glance at the Queen and speaks calmly, yet firmly:

Kael:

“He is Sarith, my second husband. Eivar’s father.”

A murmur of quiet shock runs through the guests. The Queen stays silent, her expression sharp as she looks at Sarith, then steps closer.

Queen Lorista:

“Sarith... for your bravery and selflessness, you have the gratitude of the royal family.”

Sarith bows slightly, but his eyes remain fixed on Eivar, who’s still watching him with concern.

At that moment, Rashen silently appears beside Eivar.

Rashen:

“Thank you for saving my life.”

Eivar lowers his head slightly. His ears flush red, his breathing unsteady. A faint smile touches his lips:

Eivar:

“Thank you, too. You... saved my life as well.”