Shien's Seven Strategies: A Trial in the Graymist Defense Zone

That night, the Anointed One came to the Governor's Mansion alone.

As night deepened, most of the mansion fell quiet. Only the study and the Fire Prayer Room still glowed faintly.

The outer guards patrolled according to night protocol. They bowed when they saw the Anointed One, then returned to their posts.

Hearing footsteps, Yasol raised a hand and dismissed the Recorder.

The study door closed softly, leaving only the two of them inside.

The Anointed One sat in a wooden chair to one side.

Yasol picked up his cup of cold tea. "You spoke with the boy?"

The Anointed One nodded. "I did.

"He's clever, but it's more than that. He sees problems differently from most people.

"He instinctively looks further ahead and considers the consequences behind a decision. He has ability and judgment."

Yasol nodded slowly.

That was high praise.

The Anointed One rarely assessed anyone's abilities so directly. The fact that he had said so much spoke volumes.

After a while, Yasol asked, "What do you think of him?"

The Anointed One was silent for a moment. "He has potential. The rare kind."

Yasol remained quiet for a long time before saying slowly, "But he's too young."

"Yes," the Anointed One said.

"He hasn't experienced enough. There are many things he has yet to face."

Yasol continued, "Ability is one thing. Whether he can shoulder greater responsibility is another."

The Anointed One nodded. "Which is why we need more time to observe him."

Yasol breathed out softly. "The Tear Knight will watch him, and so will the Holy City."

The Anointed One did not argue. It was true.

One conversation could leave an impression, but it could not settle anything.

Ability brought a person to their attention. Genuine recognition took time to earn.

Silence returned to the