In the days following the summit, Lin Feng and Lian found solace in each other's company. Their bond had only deepened through the trials they had faced. As they walked through the gardens of the palace, the sun setting behind them, Lin Feng took Lian's hand in his.
"I'm grateful for your support during all of this," he said, his voice soft. "I couldn't have faced the council without you by my side."
Lian smiled, her eyes sparkling. "You were brave, Lin Feng. You stood for what was right, and I admire you for that. I believe we can achieve great things together."
As they paused beneath a blooming cherry blossom tree, Lin Feng felt a rush of emotion. "Lian, I—" He hesitated, unsure of how to express the depth of his feelings.
But Lian seemed to understand. "You don't have to say anything. I feel it too." Their eyes locked, and in that moment, Lin Feng leaned in, their lips meeting in a soft, tender kiss.