Later that evening, the castle's inner garden was quiet under the stars. Qingsai sat with his three wives beneath a glowing spirit tree, its blossoms humming with faint light.
None of them spoke for a while.
Then Chunsi broke the silence.
> "I didn't know what my father planned. When they told me to marry you… I was scared. But… I'm not anymore."
She bowed her head deeply. "I'm sorry."
Qingsai looked at her soft, honest face—and simply nodded.
Lianhua was next.
> "I was raised to be gentle. Kind. But also obedient. When Grandfather offered me to you, I accepted without thought. Not because I wanted power. But… because I was too afraid to say no."
She placed her hand on his. "I know I don't deserve your trust. But I want to earn it."
Qingsai squeezed her hand gently.
Then Meiyan—always composed—looked straight at him.
> "I knew what the marriage meant. I hated it. Hated being used. But when I saw you… when I saw what you did for us… I realized I'd rather fight at your side than sit on any throne."
She stood and gave him a full bow.
> "Forgive my family's ambition. I will never let them use you again."
Qingsai stood as well, looking at the three girls before him.
> "You were tools in a game you didn't choose. So was I. But now… we choose together."
And for the first time, the warmth in his chest was not from fire or light—but from acceptance.