Deviant: No Longer Human

Its architecture was a harmonious blend of classic Nordic design with a touch of modern elegance, a fitting symbol of Sylvergard\'s rich heritage and progressive spirit.

As the helicopter landed on a helipad situated discreetly among the gardens, Wang Xiao peered out, taking in the sprawling palace grounds bathed in the soft glow of the evening sun. The palace, with its ornate facades and imposing towers, was a sight to behold.

Josephine, her initial awkwardness now replaced by a sense of purpose, straightened her attire and prepared to disembark.

"I never get used to this view..." she murmured, more to herself than to others.

Marcus, ever vigilant, checked his equipment one last time before following suit. His military uniform, adorned with the insignia of the Special Operations Group, seemed even more imposing against the backdrop of the royal palace.

The trio disembarked, and were immediately greeted by a contingent of palace guards, their uniforms a crisp contrast to Marcus\'s more battle-ready appearance.

Wang Xiao, while walking alongside Josephine, remained observant, his eyes scanning the surroundings. He noted the security measures discreetly placed around the palace, a silent testament to the seriousness of the situation they were facing.

As they approached the grand entrance, the towering doors of the palace opened, revealing the opulent interior. The lavish hallways were lined with portraits of past monarchs and tapestries depicting Sylvergard\'s history.

Josephine, taking a deep breath, turned to Wang Xiao and Marcus. "Welcome to my home," she said, a mix of pride and anticipation in her voice. "I hope you enjoy it here."

Inside, the palace buzzed with a subtle tension, the staff and officials moving with a sense of urgency that hinted at the ripples of political and personal dramas unfolding within its waters.

As they proceeded, Wang Xiao\'s thoughts were on the task ahead.

As they traversed the opulent hallways, a young maid with chestnut hair and a soft, unassuming demeanor approached them.

"Elina," she introduced herself with a polite curtsy, her voice a gentle whisper against the grandeur of the palace.

Her uniform, a neat blend of traditional and modern, spoke of the palace\'s adherence to both heritage and present-day elegance.

"Princess Josephine, the Queen awaits you in her chambers," Elina said, her eyes briefly meeting Wang Xiao\'s before looking away, a hint of curiosity flickering in them.

Josephine nodded, a wave of apprehension visible in her posture. She glanced at Wang Xiao, as if to reassure herself of his presence.

As they neared Queen Seraphine\'s room, Elina paused, turning to Wang Xiao with a respectful yet firm tone. "I\'m sorry, but you cannot accompany the Princess further. The Queen is preparing for rest, and it\'s not appropriate for gentlemen to enter at this hour."

Josephine\'s initial reaction was one of surprise, her brows knitting together in a frown. "But he\'s with me—" she started to protest.

Elina quickly interjected, her tone still respectful but insistent. "I understand, Princess, but it\'s the Queen\'s protocol. I assure you, it\'s only for the night."

Josephine, after a moment of hesitation, turned to Wang Xiao apologetically. "I\'m really sorry, Wang Xiao," she said, her eyes conveying her apology. "Could you please stay tonight? Look for me if you need anything." Her tone was earnest, hinting at her reluctance to part ways even temporarily.

Wang Xiao, understanding the delicacy of royal protocols, gave a slight nod. "I\'ll be nearby if you need me."

Josephine offered him a grateful smile before disappearing into the Queen\'s chambers with Elise.

Wang Xiao watched them go, his thoughts racing. \'What does the Queen want to discuss that requires such privacy...? Or is it just a veil...a measure of security to borrow time and research more about me?\' he wondered, the strategist in him analyzing the situation.

Elina, sensing his contemplation, gestured for him to follow her. "I\'ll show you to your room, sir. Please, this way."

As they walked, Wang Xiao observed the subtle nuances of the palace. Each step took him deeper into the heart of Sylvergard\'s power, a world where every smile hid a story, and every gesture had a meaning.

Elina led him to a guest room, its decor elegant yet understated. "I hope you find the accommodations to your liking, sir. If you need anything, please let us know," she said, her tone a blend of professionalism and hospitality.

"Thank you, Elina," Wang Xiao replied prefunctonary, his mind already plotting the next steps.

He stepped into the room, his eyes sweeping over its interior - a tasteful blend of luxury and function, befitting a guest of his stature.

As Elina quietly closed the door behind him, Wang Xiao found himself alone with his thoughts.

The room, while comfortable, felt like another chessboard piece in the complex game being played within these walls.

He walked to the window, gazing out at the moonlit gardens, their serene beauty shadowing the hidden machinations of the palace.

"Wasn\'t this place once a tourist spot?" he mused aloud, his voice barely a whisper in the quiet room. He pulled out his phone, grateful for the satellite internet connection that pierced through the palace\'s thick walls.

His fingers moved swiftly over the screen, seeking information that might fill the gaps in his understanding of the situation.

As he scrolled, the pieces began to fit together. His eyes narrowed as he came across a crucial piece of news. A year ago, the Queen had declared an end to public tours, transforming the palace from a celebrated landmark into her private sanctuary.

The decision, at the time, had raised eyebrows but now seemed to take on a new significance.

Wang Xiao leaned back, his mind racing. \'There\'s a link...\' he thought, \'between the attack and the Queen\'s retreat into this fortress of solitude.\'

The decision to isolate herself in the palace suddenly appeared to be more than a mere whim of royalty; it hinted at a deeper, perhaps more ominous motive.

And then there was the attack on Josephine.

Only the most powerful could command the kind of forces that were deployed against her.

Wang Xiao\'s thoughts darkened. \'Queen Seraphine has made a powerful enemy...\'

He stood there for a long while, the glow of the moonlight spilling across the room, casting long shadows that seemed to play out the silence of his thoughts.