Seong-Jin knew something was wrong.
Dan-Bi was hiding something.
And it was driving him mad.
Ever since the attack, Dan-Bi had been distant. Too careful. Avoiding his gaze. Dodging his questions.
And now?
Now he had disappeared for hours without telling him.
Seong-Jin wasn't a fool.
So he followed.
Through the palace corridors. Past the courtyards. Until—
He found him.
Dan-Bi stood under the cherry blossom tree, speaking to Minister Jang.
Seong-Jin's breath hitched.
He stepped closer, listening.
"…Then I'll be forced to let fate take its course."
Dan-Bi's voice was sharp. "Fine."
Seong-Jin's stomach twisted.
Dan-Bi was making a deal.
With Jang.
Seong-Jin clenched his fists.
This wasn't just secrecy.
This was betrayal.