A trace of thoughtful bewilderment flickered in his eyes, which still held a lingering golden glow from his recent breakthrough.
He parted his lips as though he wanted to say something, only to find that he could not think of a fitting reply.
Silence settled over the pavilion for a few breaths. Only waterbirds skimmed across the lake, scattering tiny droplets that glinted silver in the sunlight.
The distant waterfall still roared, and the rainbow still spanned the mist. Its seven colors shone on the pavilion's white jade pillars, trimming the structure with a rainbow border.
"What do you mean?"
The Star Luo Emperor finally spoke.
His tone had lost some of its earlier composure and gained a measure of seriousness.
His eyes fixed on Dai Mobai's back, as though reassessing the son he had thought he knew so well.
Dai Mobai turned to face his father.
A faint smile curved his lips, carrying the clarity of someone who had seen through many things.
"I mean that the same matter calls for different approaches depending on where you stand."
His voice was quiet, but every word was clear.
"To put it more simply, fulfill the duties of the position you hold."
He paused, his gaze settling on the Star Luo Emperor's face.
"While you rule, Father, I'll be a good crown prince."
"When you leave me in charge, I'll be a good ruler."
"It's that simple."
Dai Mobai smiled, wisdom glinting in his eyes.
"To think that after more than twenty years of ruling, I still haven't gained the clarity you found in a few months as regent."
The Star Luo Emperor fell silent for a moment, then let out a soft sigh.
That sigh held reflection, pride, and the complicated feelings of an aging father watching his son surpass