Lying inside the box was a vessel flute made of ceramic. Its surface was adorned with black veins branching out from the mouthpiece.
"Khadagan left this before he left with our brothers to war," the High Priestess noted as she picked the wind instrument from the box. "In a way, I believe he had a feeling that he might not make it back here alive to pick it up. I see it as my responsibility to hand this item over to you, his son."
The High Priestess extended the vessel flute in Huang Taichen's direction.
"We from the Banyue Tribe use musical instruments to amplify our control over the animals. Instruments are neither good nor bad. Those who use them must decide whether to use them for a good or a bad cause."
Huang Taichen took the vessel flute from the High Priestess with trembling hands.
"Father," he whispered, his voice shaking from suppressed emotions.
Qiao Wei smiled.
"I am glad," he said. "Thank you, High Priestess."
