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“Eastward.” Shenming glances at me, silently urging me to speak.

My stomach hollows, but this matter is too vital to keep secret. Moreover, too many saw me fall at the peak and heard what I said—and we need the Elders’ guidance.

“I fell unconscious when the stars moved,” I say haltingly. “In my mind, there was an ocean with green waters, one I’ve never seen before. Luminous sands… almost iridescent.” Everyone is listening as I push myself to continue. “A strong scent pervaded the dream—of flowers and sandalwood.”

Lady Shila taps the armrest of her throne. “The Pearl Ocean.”

“How can we be sure?” Lord Zhu asks. “The girl isn’t a seer.”

“I’m not claiming to be, Honored Elder. I’m just sharing what I saw in hopes it can help.”

“The Moon Dragon acknowledged the girl and spoke to her.” Lord Hairong studies me closely. “Perhaps the spirits of the dragons speak to her too.”

As the others nod, I release a sigh of relief at Lord Hairong’s explanation. Safer to let them imagine this, than to question why I sensed the waterfall… or what other abilities I possess.

“This fits what we’ve deduced,” Shenming says. “The Pearl Ocean lies to the east of the Three Kingdoms, the direction the stars are leading us. While their people are devoid of magic, these waters are said to possess a unique energy to cultivate items of great beauty.”

The Elders lower their heads, conferring among themselves. “Captain Shenming, you will lead the quest,” Lady Shila declares at last. “Form a party small enough to avoid detection from enemies, yet large enough to defend against threats.”

Shenming bows in acknowledgment, his expression solemn. This responsibility is onerous, the weight of the dragon’s life and our island’s future resting on his shoulders.

“We trust in your abilities, Captain Shenming. There is no one more capable to undertake this,” Lord Hairong says gently, as though sensing his worry. “We will provide any aid you require, anything you need to support this difficult path ahead.”

“Thank you, Lord Hairong. I am honored by your trust.” Shenming stands straighter, more at ease.

My insides knot with dread. To relinquish the magic, I must accompany the Sun Dragon to the waterfall. Every part of me recoils at the thought of returning to the Three Kingdoms, of Queen Chunlei’s viciousness and General Xilu’s brutality, united in their hatred for me. The only one in greater danger from them is Prince Zixin.

“I would like to join you,” I tell Shenming.

A glimmer of a smile appears on Lady Shila’s lips. “Are you already attached to your future betrothed? It would give us much joy should your families be united at last.” She speaks with such warmth, I almost regret having to disappoint her. But I drop my head, playing the role of a devoted partner.

“It will be a perilous journey.” Shenming’s brow furrows; he alone knows I’m not volunteering out of attachment.

“She could be vital,” Lord Hairong suggests. “After all, she sensed the waterfall.”

“I can also be of use in the Three Kingdoms,” I add. “I lived there for many years.”

“I’ve heard of your ‘abilities,’” Lord Zhu says sternly. “You did what you needed to survive in the Three Kingdoms. But thieving and lying will not be tolerated here.”

My face flushes, but I bite my tongue. Those who grow up in safety and security don’t know how hard it is without. Lady Shila turns to Shenming. “This is your decision, Captain. Do you wish to bring her?”

As he glances at me, I widen my eyes in a silent plea. Only then does he incline his head. “Miss Yining would be a valuable addition. We will set out as soon as we can—once we secure a safe path.”

Lady Shila motions to a nearby guard. “Send word to Mistress Weining that the Sun Dragon needs to be prepared to undertake the journey.”

“How will we travel to the Three Kingdoms?” I ask. “The path that borders the Iron Mountains will be dangerous.”

“It will also be heavily guarded,” Shenming says. “A grave risk to bring the dragon there. Nor can we go by water as the current farther south is treacherous.”

“We have heard of another path,” Lady Shila says slowly. “Southward, through Thorn Valley, past the chasm. We will need to learn more, as the terrain is unexplored.”

“Could we ask the lords of Thorn Valley for assistance, for a guide to show the way?” Shenming asks.

“They will demand a high price for any aid,” Lord Hairong warns.

“Yet they saved the Sun Dragon without payment,” I remind them.

“Perhaps they will see reason.” Lady Shila tilts her head back. “Captain Shenming, summon the lords of Thorn Valley. Inform them, we require passage through their lands, though do not share the details of your quest. The fewer outsiders who know, the safer. We will allow them permission this once, to enter our waters.”