In the Lower District of Water City, the same community where Ningyan had once stayed before leaving, the area was still in ruins.
Many buildings remained broken, their walls cracked and roofs collapsed.
But there were no bodies left in the streets anymore.
Life had slowly begun to return.
A few beastfolk walked along the shoreline, carrying baskets or nets. Children played nearby, their laughter drifting across the salty wind.
It wasn't like before.
But life went on.
By the beach stood Rong Yue.
The sea wind brushed through his golden hair as his blue feline eyes remained fixed on the endless waves rolling across the ocean.
He stood there quietly. Waiting.
Eventually, one of the tiger beast guards who had gone to investigate the streets returned.
The guard approached him respectfully and bowed. "Your Highness."
Rong Yue glanced at him. "Are they ready to speak with me?"
The guard nodded. "Yes, Your Highness."
The guard then led Rong Yue into the ruined streets.
