The Zodiac Court had changed. What had once been a crumbling ruin of politics and ego was now alive with purpose and promise. The hall buzzed with the energy of warriors, scholars, and emissaries, all working together to chart the future of the cosmos under their new Zodiac Emperor, Hyeong Shin.
He stood at the heart of it all, on the raised dais where the Zodiac Throne gleamed with renewed light. Its intricate carvings of celestial constellations seemed to pulse with life, reflecting the balance restored through his ascension.
Eun Woo walked up the steps to stand beside him, her movements still tentative after days of recovering her spirit. "You look like you belong there," she said softly, nodding toward the throne.
Hyeong Shin chuckled, his hand brushing over the armrest. "It feels strange. I never sought this—never wanted it. But now that I'm here..."
"You're the one they need," she finished for him, her voice filled with conviction.
