Star Dou Forest – Inner Ring
The forest seemed to breathe around him.
Ancient trees loomed overhead, each one a testament to the history etched deep into the heart of this world. Life pulsed here—wild, untamed, and older than any human kingdom.
Ren walked with quiet confidence, shadow guards forming a half-circle behind him. By his side strode the Ice Jade Empress and Yanyue, their presence commanding and regal.
And ahead, somewhere in the heart of this living giant, awaited another piece of fate.
The Emerald Swan.
A soul beast with healing powers so potent, even gods whispered her name with reverence. She had vanished from the eyes of both beast and man, choosing solitude and silence.
But Ren would find her.
Hidden Grove – Lake of Tears
A clearing bathed in green light opened before them.
A crystalline lake sat still, untouched, save for one ripple that seemed to pulse with sorrow.
And then… she appeared.
Her form shimmered into view from the mist. A woman with long jade-colored hair, skin pale as moonlight, and eyes like liquid spring. Her aura was gentle—calm as the lake she guarded—but it wrapped around them with tangible power.
"You shouldn't be here," she said softly, almost mournfully.
Ren stepped forward. "I seek your strength. Your heart. Your future."
The Emerald Swan tilted her head, sad eyes never leaving his. "I've seen too much pain… too much taken from this world. And from me."
"You've been hiding," Ren said gently, "because you think your love is a curse. But it's a gift. Come with me. Heal what's broken—not just in others, but within yourself."
She hesitated.
But he didn't move.
He just looked at her. Not with hunger, not with demand—just understanding. A power far more rare than anything he had ever wielded.
The other women stepped aside, saying nothing. The Ice Empress gave a subtle nod. Even Mei—silent since the last battle—watched with quiet hope.
And finally… the Emerald Swan reached for him.
"Then I will follow you… if only to find what I've forgotten: faith."
Later – Shadow Citadel, Garden of Grace
The garden bloomed with life where she walked. A place of warmth, balance, and calm nestled within a fortress of darkness and flame.
The Emerald Swan knelt beside a shadow beast who had been wounded in a rift battle. Her gentle energy pulsed into its body, knitting it back together.
Ren stood nearby, arms crossed.
"You've made this place something impossible," she whispered. "A sanctuary within the storm."
"It's only the beginning," he replied.
Meanwhile – Tang San's Spiral
"First the Ice Queen. Now the Swan?!" Tang San's voice cracked with frustration.
He stared at the spirit beast scrolls with disbelief. The tide was turning, and no one dared to stop it.
Even the gods were silent.
Because deep inside, they feared what was coming.
Not the destruction.
But the rebirth.
End of Chapter 56To be continued…