The Sea Witch closed her eyes and let out a soft sigh.
When she opened them again, the regret in her eyes had faded, replaced by gentleness and encouragement.
"Ariel," she said softly, "I heard that a guest arrived on the island today."
Ariel nodded. "Yes. His name is Lin Wan, and he came from the mainland. At the Seahorse Sacred Pillar... he triggered the Sea God's Nine Trials."
"Sea God's Nine Trials..."
The Sea Witch savored those four words, a trace of reminiscence flickering in her eyes.
"I have served as a priestess for many years and seen countless extraordinarily gifted geniuses, but I have never seen anyone trigger a golden trial."
She looked at Ariel, her gaze gentle.
"Do you feel any resentment?"
Ariel fell silent for a moment.
Resentment?
Perhaps, just a little.
After all, she had come to this world in pursuit of an eternal soul, to ascend to that supreme Divine Seat.
But that small trace of resentment was quickly replaced by another emotion.
Because she knew the truth.
She knew who Lin Wan was, what that golden trident mark meant, and that all of this had been part of the plan from the beginning.
But she could not say it.
"No." Ariel shook her head, her voice calm. "I was only wondering what my trial would be in three years."
The Sea Witch looked at her, surprise flashing through her eyes before turning to understanding.
This child was more clear-sighted than she had imagined.
She slowly rose to her feet, walked over to Ariel, and gently stroked her red hair.
"Ariel," the Sea Witch said softly, yet with unquestionable certainty, "I am greatly looking forward to your Sea God trial three years from now."
She paused, her gaze passing through the window toward the