The next morning, Cai Yao prepared to leave—defeated but still watching from the shadows.
Before the envoy departed, Qingsai met him in the outer courtyard.
> "Tell the king," he said calmly, "I will honor the peace… but not the leash."
Cai bowed low, but his smile was hollow.
Qingsai turned and rejoined his wives as Whispering Hollow's gates closed behind the envoy caravan.
Lucen Arkai appeared beside him.
> "You've found something stronger than any element," the old master said. "You've found your voice."
Qingsai's gaze turned toward the horizon, where the forest stirred, the Veil shifted, and fate waited.
> "I'll forge a new path. One no crown, court, or spirit can chain."
And the Soulkindled flame in him blazed brighter still.