Ryuuran

"That one hears the rustle of every leaf but misses the sound of the wind," the trainer had said. In that moment, Ryuuran finally understood what they meant. Crouched under a dripping fern deep in The Heart of the Forest, the recon headset crackled with a voice they recognized—a supposed protector of the woods, calmly negotiating the price of ancient trees with an imperial quartermaster. Their mouth fell open, a silent, sickening gasp. The defiant pride they wore like armor crumbled, leaving only the cold shock of betrayal. They didn't hear Monku approach until a hand rested gently on their shoulder. "The loudest truths are often found in silence," the peacemaker said, their voice a balm. "Listen to what your heart says now."