The sun cast a golden hue across the city streets as Kael and the newly freed elite unit made their way through the heart of Velmora. The air was thick with whispers and wary glances from passersby.

  "Aren't those the elite traitors?" a voice hissed from the crowd.

  "Why would anyone release them? They're a menace," muttered another.

  As they walked, Kael's aura exuded quiet authority. Around him, security forces moved in formation, keeping a watchful eye on the growing crowd. The murmurs didn’t faze Kael, but the elite unit could feel the weight of every suspicious glance.

  A group of young women giggled on the sidelines, one whispering to another, "If I had a chance, I’d marry him and—" Her cheeks flushed a deep red as her imagination spiraled. Overwhelmed by her own thoughts, she stumbled and nearly fell, drawing an annoyed glare from her friend.

  Selene, watching Kael’s calm stride, murmured under her breath, "Just like his father... Unshaken by the world around him."

  —

  Arrival at the Palace

  The elite unit’s awe was clear as they approached Kael’s palace. Gleaming marble walls rose high, adorned with intricate engravings. Yet, hidden behind the beauty was unmistakable strength—cannons lined the battlements, guards patrolled every corner.

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  Selene whispered, "This place… it’s beautiful and elegant but terrifyingly fortified at the same time."

  Kael greeted them with his usual calm, introducing the three remaining council members. During introductions, Rose couldn't help but compare herself to Selene. Her gaze drifted toward Selene’s chest, and an unspoken rivalry sparked in her eyes.

  Yue noticed and burst into laughter. "Rose, you’re seriously comparing that now?"

  Blushing, Rose quickly changed the subject. "Kael, I’m sorry for slapping you earlier."

  Kael waved it off. "Don’t mention it."

  "Do you... hate me?" Rose asked in a soft voice.

  "No, why would I hate you?"

  She hesitated before mumbling, "Do you lo—" Her face turned crimson, and she stopped mid-sentence.

  Before Kael could respond, Selene smirked, clearly enjoying the tension. "Oh, so that’s the thing, huh?"

  Kael, genuinely confused, asked, "What’s going on?"

  "Nothing!" Rose snapped, her blush deepening.

  As they settled into the palace, Kael offered them rooms. Everyone quickly found one—except Selene.

  "You can share a room with Rose," Kael suggested casually.

  Rose’s face twisted in protest. "No way!"

  "Then share mine," Kael offered, trying to be practical.

  Rose immediately jumped in, pointing at Kael accusingly. "You’re a pervert! Who knows what kind of naughty things you might do in that room."

  Selene raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "I’ll share with him. He’s not that bad."

  "No, no! For your safety, you should share a room with me," Rose snapped, dragging Selene away.

  Selene smirked, teasing, "Of course, Mrs. Vice President."

  "I’ll teach you a lesson, you old witch," Rose mumbled, her voice low and sulky.

  —

  The Next Morning

  Kael stood before the elite unit, his gaze sharp. "Starting today, we train. You will become the sharpest blade Velmora has ever seen. Rusty weapons aren’t fit for the future we’re forging."

  The elite unit straightened, determination burning in their eyes. A spark of their old selves began to reignite.

  End of Chapter 8