**Chapter 114 — The Lingering Shadow**
The first rays of dawn crept through the obsidian shutters like hesitant fingers, painting the royal chambers in soft crimson and gold.
Cairis had barely closed his eyes all night. He lay on his side, one arm draped protectively over Liora's waist, watching the steady rise and fall of her chest. Even in sleep, faint lines of pain etched her forehead from her still-healing wounds. The bandages around her legs and side were a stark reminder of how close he had come to losing her — because of his own broken mind.
Guilt sat heavy in his chest, sharper than any blade.
He gently traced a finger along the fading bruises left by the suppression chains on her wrists. Every mark felt like an accusation. He had put those on her. He had mocked her love while she fought for him. He had called her "witch" with genuine contempt.
Liora stirred, eyelids fluttering open. When she saw him watching her, a soft, sleepy smile curved her lips.
