The pavilion fell into stunned silence. Rui's hands trembled slightly as she processed Ran's words.
"What do you mean?" she demanded, leaning forward.
Ran raised his hand, his expression gentle but firm.
"Some futures are better left unspoken, Princess. Knowledge doesn't always bring comfort."
"But if we know, we might prevent it," Rui insisted, her dual-natured energy flickering with agitation.
"That's precisely why I won't say more," Ran replied softly. "The paths of fate become most dangerous when we try to outmaneuver them."
Zou and Shen exchanged rare looks of agreement, both understanding the weight of prophecy.
Madam Meng cleared her throat. "Perhaps we should continue the game?"
"My turn!" Kee Kee announced, breaking the tension as he scampered across the table, nearly knocking over Shen's teacup.
The tiny demon beast reached his claws into the box, rummaging dramatically before pulling out a slip almost as large as himself.
