Don shook his head, a look of distinct distaste washing over his features. "I'm not interested in 'rooting' with nuts like this," he muttered, locking his arms tightly across his chest.

    "Don't worry," Bai-Luo offered with a reassuring smile, his voice calm and grounded. "Most people only ever root deeply with a select few. It takes Great Souls to weave rooted circles that stretch both deep and far."

    Aiko leaned back, gazing off thoughtfully as if reading the contours of the wind. "'Rooting' with anyone is a double-edged sword," she mused gently. "The truly wise learn to connect deeply—and then find the grace to let go."

    A lingering sigh broke from Cindy, carrying the weight of a dozen unspoken memories. She shook her head softly, staring down at her folded hands. "Ah, easier said than done..." she breathed, the words barely audible. "...far easier said than done."