That seal… the one who placed it was undoubtedly stronger than she was. A faint chill crept along her spine at the realization. That fact alone stayed her hand. Though curiosity gnawed at her, she dared not tamper with the envelope—fearing that whoever had etched that mark might sense her interference and bring disaster not only upon her, but upon the entire sect.
To leave behind such a profound mark and then disappear without a trace… just who was his mother?
A deepening frown tugged at her lips as she clasped her hands behind her back.
I only hope… that taking him in as my disciple isn't a choice I'll come to regret, she thought, unease glinting in her eyes.
Yet the memory of his gaze—so full of silent resolve, buried grief, and the restraint of someone who had suffered much—stirred something within her heart.
"I'll protect you for as long as I can," she whispered, her voice soft and reflective. "Just as my master once protected me."
