052 Farewell, Yellow Dragon CityBy first light, the city stirred. The festival’s remnants—discarded lanterns, empty bottles, and torn banners—littered the streets. Yet, despite the mess, there was a sense of peace. People moved with purpose, sweeping away debris, washing the roads, and setting things right as if nothing had happened.I stood atop the city wall, looking down at the scene. Jiang Zhen stood to my right, arms crossed, his expression unreadable. Ren Jin was on my left, still as ever, the prince watching the city he ruled with quiet calculation.Jiang Zhen exhaled. "Be careful on your travels," he said. No jokes, no riddles, no jabs. Just that.I turned to Ren Jin. "And you?"Ren Jin gave me a sidelong glance. "Ren Xun will guide you to the Empire. Do as you like with him."That was... harsh. "Isn't he your son?" I asked, raising a brow."He is," Ren Jin admitted, "but he is also your responsibility now. His fate is in your hands."I didn't know whether to be honored or concerned. Probably both.That was too callous of him.I turned back to Jiang Zhen, finding myself hesitating. "Thanks," I said finally. "For everything. For your hospitality. And for your friendship."Jiang Zhen scoffed. "You're probably the only person who'd act so sentimental."But then, he did something unexpected—he called me by my name. "David," he said, without stuttering, without hesitation. “Be careful out there, turbulent times are coming. If anything, I’d be bummed if you suddenly croak out one day.”It was the first time he'd said my name properly. That practically made him the first person who addressed me by my name in this strange world. I blinked. Then, I smiled. "You got it right."Jiang Zhen rolled his eyes. "Of course I did."I had no idea what it was like to be unable to say certain syllables or to have an accent that couldn't be helped. Assigned (...)