The skies above the southern ranges rippled with thunder.
A single imperial-class spirit crane descended onto the Jade Serpent Sect's outer courtyard — black-feathered, gold-eyed, its talons armored in runic steel.
It landed without a sound, though the weight of its arrival pressed down on every disciple present.
Atop it sat a man in black and crimson.
Silent.
Still.
Unsmiling.
Hei Long.
A storm given human shape.
The guards at the gate stood frozen.
The Head Instructor rushed forward, bowing so low her forehead touched the stone. "W-We weren't expecting—"
"I'm not here on imperial business," Hei Long said. His voice was quiet. Clear. Utterly without warmth. "I'm here… to join."
"J-Join?"
He held up a scroll.
It bore the Jade Empress's personal seal — a rare imperial favor granting him right of sect visitation and trial.
The instructor paled.
"But… why our sect?"
Hei Long's gaze never shifted.
"Someone I know is… thriving here."
He dismounted.
