The next morning, Lucen Arkai requested a private meeting with Qingsai in the old shrine chamber.
There, Lucen removed his outer robe and set it aside.
Underneath, etched into his chest, was an ancient sigil—the mark of the Soulkindled, burned and faded.
Qingsai's heart skipped.
> "You…?"
Lucen nodded slowly. "I was Soulkindled once. Centuries ago."
He knelt before the broken mask of Aurexia the Lightbinder, placing his hand on the stone with reverence.
> "I was her teacher. Her guide. Her… betrayer."
Qingsai stepped back in disbelief.
Lucen's voice broke. "I once thought unifying the six elements would elevate our kind. I pushed Aurexia too far. When she fell to the Veilborn horde in this very place… I sealed myself in the Flow of Time. Awaiting the next."
Tears welled in his aged eyes.
> "You are not just my student. You are my chance… to make it right."
Qingsai looked at the old man. He didn't feel anger.
He felt… understanding.
> "Then guide me. But never lie to me again."
Lucen bowed his head. "I swear it."
Outside, the wind howled over Whispering Hollow.
And in the shadows beyond the trees, another Soulkindled watched from afar—his eyes like molten gold, and his aura reeking of Veil corruption.