Mei's father studied Kaito carefully. "What is your Vital Thread, young one?" he asked, his tone calm but probing.
Kaito's expression didn't waver. "It's… a thread connected to my emotions, sir," he replied, his lie smooth and practiced. "It's unpredictable. I'm still trying to understand it."
Mei's parents exchanged intrigued glances. His composure, even in the presence of nobles, was remarkable. There was something about the boy—something measured, hidden, and quietly dangerous.
Mei's father leaned back, smiling faintly. "You've shown remarkable potential, Kaito. Awakening your TRI at nine is no small feat—it's considered an A-grade rarity." He paused, then continued, "We'd like to speak with your parents about something important."
Luo Wei and Feng Huang, sitting nearby, tensed. Mei's father's tone carried both authority and respect.
"We would like to adopt you, Kaito," he said at last. "As a gesture of gratitude for saving our daughter—and to give you the means to nurture your gift. The Fei Clan will enroll you in the Min Academy, the best academy for Thread Weavers in the northern plains. You'll receive the finest education, training, and protection there."
The words hung in the air. Luo Wei and Feng Huang looked at each other, torn.
Feng Huang's brows furrowed. "He's our only son," he murmured. "We raised him with our own hands. How can we just…"
But Mei's father was persuasive. "I understand your hesitation," he said gently. "But think of what he could become. The Min Academy is beyond what most can dream of. It will shape his destiny."
The couple sat in silence. They both knew the truth—they could never afford the academy's tuition. The Fei Clan's offer was a chance they could not give him on their own.
Finally, Luo Wei nodded, her eyes glistening. "If it means a better life for him… then yes. We'll agree."
Mei's father smiled warmly. "The adoption will be finalized when he turns ten. Until then, he'll remain with you. We'll return next year."
Mei and her parents took their leave, offering words of gratitude and promises of future visits.
As the Fei family disappeared down the snow-lined path, Kaito stood by the doorway, silent and composed. His parents watched him, their hearts heavy yet proud.
Kaito's mind, however, was elsewhere. Min Academy, he thought. The perfect cover.
In his previous life, he had hidden in shadows for centuries, but this time, he would walk among the gifted—disguised, learning, adapting. The academy would shield his true abilities and keep his karma in check. His parents would remain safe from the curse that lingered within him.
His TRI flickered faintly—Rank 1, +3 karma points.
Even standing still, I gather karma, he mused. Every breath, every thought. It never stops.
But he was determined. He would not repeat the same mistakes. He would control his karma, master his fate, and use the academy to advance quietly—until the time was right to rise again.
The wind outside had stilled, and the air carried the faint scent of spring blossoms. Kaito's life was about to change, and though the future was uncertain, he faced it without fear.
He was no longer the silent child in the tavern. He was a Weaver reborn—bound by karma, but free in purpose.