When Su Li returned, weary from the biting wind and snow of the blood-red plateau in the north, the southern plains were already awakening with spring. The snow in and around Bauhinia Manor had long melted away, leaving behind the deep brown hues of soil saturated with snowmelt and the budding green shoots eager to emerge. The air carried that familiar fragrance—a blend of moist earth and fresh grass and trees—perfectly heralding the festival of Spring Brings Life to All Things.
The annual festival of Spring Brings Life to All Things had finally arrived, marking the third year since Su Li came to the territory.
Unbeknownst to him, the territory had been standing firm for more than two years now, growing from a small frontier settlement struggling for survival into a vibrant land entwined with faith and power.
