Chapter 183: THE DREAM AND THE GUARD

"Yes, my lady?" Zane responded, his voice tinged with surprise and apprehension. The young guard's eyes flicked nervously between Xina and the two more seasoned guards, Gallahan and Noah. He was clearly bewildered by the sudden shift in attention and unsure of how to address Xina’s unexpected request. "Did I offend you, my lady?" he ventured, his voice barely more than a whisper. His discomfort was palpable as he cast furtive glances at his senior colleagues. Gallahan and Noah shared an uncertain look, puzzled by the reason behind Xina’s sudden interest in the young guard. They were equally unsure about Zane's possible transgression, having witnessed no such offense from him. "No, don’t worry, you haven’t offended me," Xina assured him with a gentle smile meant to dispel his unease. "I just need you to come with me." "Where to, my lady?" Zane asked hesitantly, his reluctance evident. His position in the palace did not normally require him to question the commands of someone of Xina'