Kaian stood outside his father’s office, the weight of his decision pressing heavily on his chest. His heart hammered against his ribs, not out of fear, but with a deep sense of resignation. He took a long, steadying breath, his hand lingering on the door. This is it, he thought. This is the first step toward redemption, toward becoming the leader this realm deserves.
He knocked firmly, and the deep, familiar voice of King Kai called out from within. “Come in.”
Kaian pushed the door open, stepping inside the grand yet practical office of his father. Shelves lined with books on history, strategy, and governance filled the walls, while a massive desk sat at the center, piled with scrolls and documents. The Dragon King looked up, his sharp gray eyes softening slightly as he saw his son. “Ka
