Chapter 24: Shadow Clouds
Jett deepened his understanding of dullahans and his other companions, all while honing his ballroom skills. Afterward, he buried himself in the mansion’s library, absorbing Fayralia’s history and the legacies of past Wardens.
Just like I thought, Wardens aren’t necessarily the good guys.
On his way to meet Noctlisa, Jett mulled over his predecessors and the brutal ways they maintained equilibrium. One figure in particular haunted him—the Ruler of Earth and Rivers. The man’s methods were infamous, and his signature skill mirrored the power Jett had gained from the World Tree.
His concept of balance mixed mercy with monstrosity. He diverted rivers to feed starving provinces, yet unleashed blood‑red floods that swallowed entire kingdoms, erasing royal lines, commoners, even slaves—anyone who might inherit a will to disrupt the scales.
If the last Warden hadn’t been gone long, the world might still bear his scars. The Ruler of Earth and Rivers had been the previous Warden; Jett, the Ruler of Heavens and Storm, was his heir. The thought didn’t weigh on him so much as it provoked a question—could he do the same?
Wiping out everyone is insane. Another Harbinger—or some other power‑hungry punk—will always pop up. Balance is always at risk, so why nuke an entire nation?
His musings stopped when he reached the mansion’s top floor. Beyond the door to the main balcony, Noctlisa leaned against the rail, the moonlight bathing her in silver. A shimmering path stretched over the black ocean, and though ragged clouds drifted nearby, none dared dim their moment.
"Sorry I’m late," Jett said.
"I arrived early, Master," Noctlisa replied.
He stepped beside her and glanced up. "Sky’s not exactly cooperating tonight."
She gave a single nod.