The three moons rose together.
This time, Vale did not seek them.
He sat on the balcony as before, but his eyes were closed. The wind passed him by without greeting.
Behind him, Elder Rin spoke softly. "Do you know what the third moon represents really?"
Vale shook his head.
"Witness," Rin said. "Not understanding. Not mastery."
Vale opened his eyes.
For the first time, the third moon was clear—small, dim, unwavering.
"I didn't cultivate," Vale whispered.
Rin nodded. "You aligned."
Far below, bells rang again.
They sounded normal.
Yet something had changed.
The city listened—but did not respond.