I chose my words with care. "By giving them choice. By seeing their worth. By building something worth believing in."
Feng Lan stopped beside a small pond, watching the koi glide beneath the surface. "I've been raised to rule through legacy and power. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to inspire loyalty the way you do."
The moment stretched. There was genuine curiosity in her voice, mixed with something deeper — ambition, attraction, and perhaps a hint of envy.
When we parted, she lingered once more. "Tomorrow, I'd like to show you the clan's private spirit archive. Few outsiders are allowed there. Consider it… a gesture of trust."
I accepted.
---
That evening, back in our pavilions, I shared the details with my women over a quiet dinner. The conversation was thoughtful and collaborative.
