---

Yue gazed at him, wide-eyed, as if the sight of him would tell her what to do. For all she had wanted a child, even a female one, she had no idea what to do now that she had one between her limbs. Especially one so cold, hungry, and homeless.

It seemed the Empress had only two paths to take, and either might rip her heart in two. If she were to search for the little cub's family, and subsequently find them – Yue would dutifully relinquish the child, but would always feel as though she had squandered the only chance the Crystal Dragon would give her at being a mother.

Alternatively, if Yue were to take the child and raise it amongst Tianlong, give the small bundle to a woman who could act as mother, was it not the same thing? The main difference would be that Yue could watch the cub grow and thrive, as she loved to do with all the youths of Tianlong. It would be as painful as it would be gratifying.

The only other option would be to raise the girl herself, consigning her to a life of ridicule. After all, what could an adopted child be to a woman whose entire value was formed amongst her own blood legacy?

It seemed to be the worst option of all three.

Yue bent back down and cooed her next words into the girl’s cheek. Instead of one, she pledged to all of the paths before them. I will find your family, little one, she committed soulfully, already knowing the likelihood was nil. and if I cannot, know that you will always have a home.

It was her pledge to all things of innocence - children, motherhood, the sanctity of religion – to provide them aegis. Yue began to feel profound appreciation for her sheer luck, finding the thing out here. Intending to nurture whatever sense of comfort the girl felt in her arms, the Empress leaned in close.

I shan't let loss befall you again –, and Yue realized she did not know the girl’s name. Would she even be able to verbalize it, remember it, know it? What is your name?

---

༻❁༺