Hours passed within the frozen cave.
Under Su Ling's precise control of the Life Flame and Li Hao's steady qi support, the cub's condition gradually stabilized. The violent fluctuations within its body subsided, and its breathing became slow and steady.
Xu Mei maintained a protective barrier, ensuring no external disturbance interrupted the process, while Wang Lei and Lin Xue guarded the entrance.
Finally—
The cub opened its eyes.
This time, there was no hostility.
Only quiet awareness.
It slowly stood up, its small body still weak but no longer unstable.
Then it walked toward Li Hao.
Step by step.
Before gently leaning against him.
No resistance.
No fear.
Only trust.
A natural bond formed.
No forced contract.
No domination.
Just mutual acceptance.
Li Hao placed his hand on its head.
"You'll come with me," he said.
The cub let out a soft, low sound—almost like agreement.