The noble houses were restless.
Too many whispers. Too much light around a single omega. Suwei, without any official appointment, was already attracting attention and changing the energy of the palace. Some called him a symbol. Others, a threat.
The Imperial Council was summoned to the Golden Dragon Hall, a ceremonial chamber where ancient tests of purity, spiritual strength, and lineage were performed.
The Baihuan House, with its polite yet cutting tone, was the first to raise its voice.
— If this young man is destined to sit beside the Dragon, let the dragon judge his essence.
— The ritual is ancient... and fair.
Emperor Jin Long did not speak. He observed Suwei with an impassive expression... but his eyes concealed a storm.
Suwei accepted. Not out of pride. But out of certainty.
The ritual began.
