The discussion was interrupted by the arrival of the Burning Sky.
He appeared at the edge of the clearing, his ancient presence filling the space like a physical weight. The children, who had been playing, went still. The adults, who had been talking, fell silent.
Zhǐ Ruò's heart stopped.
Dà Jiāo Huǒ walked toward her, his golden eyes fixed on her face. She felt small. Insignificant. Like an insect under a magnifying glass.
"You. Newcomer. Zhǐ Ruò," he said. His voice was deep, ancient, resonant. "I hear you are starting a school."
"I—yes. I am."
"Good." He nodded once. "The cubs need structure. They need knowledge. They need guidance." His eyes held hers. "I can offer knowledge too. Ancient knowledge. Knowledge of the sky and the stars and the secrets of the world."
Zhǐ Ruò swallowed. "That would be... amazing. Thank you."
"Do not thank me. I am not doing it for you." His gaze softened. "I am doing it for them."
She nodded, not trusting her voice.
