The next morning, the three of them set off down the river trail, heading north toward the Lotus Basin. Qingsai knew the forest paths well enough, and he needed food and shelter before making the longer journey west to Orilan.
As they walked, Qingsai kept glancing at Meiyan. She walked with a natural authority, keeping Chunsi close and scanning the terrain like a trained scout. Her royal aura was unmistakable.
Chunsi, by contrast, walked with shy steps and downcast eyes. When Qingsai offered her some fruit, she blushed and whispered "Thank you," barely audible.
"You're different," Meiyan said suddenly, as they passed under a spirit tree.
Qingsai turned. "What do you mean?"
"I've met many gifted warriors. Trained mages. Even Spiritbinders. But I've never seen someone ignite Spirit Flame instinctively—and survive it."
"I… didn't mean to," Qingsai admitted. "It just happened. I didn't know what I was doing."
"It wasn't luck," Meiyan said. "The flame listened to you. Like it recognized you."
Qingsai didn't answer.
But Chunsi looked up. "I think… he's kind."
Meiyan glanced down. "Kindness didn't kill five bandits, Chunsi."
"It saved us," Chunsi replied softly.
That night, they camped beneath the stars. Qingsai took first watch. Meiyan stayed awake beside him, arms folded, watching the stars.
"You'll be hunted," she said suddenly.
"What?"
"The moment people know who you are—Soulkindled—they'll either try to control you… or destroy you."
Qingsai was silent.
"Still," Meiyan added, "if anyone deserves that power… I'm glad it was you."