Investigating the Two's Condition

Xiao Yun's body stiffened slightly, then he reached out and wrapped his arms around her back, patting her gently.

He did not speak, because there was no need to.

He could feel her trembling. He could feel how tightly she held him. He could feel the fear, worry, and longing she had suppressed for hours, all pouring out in this moment.

From Dragon Ascending Town to the Extreme North Ice Plains, from learning that the headmasters were trapped to following Xiao Yun deep into the ice plains to rescue the two of them, and then Xiao Yun staying behind alone to cover their retreat, she had been worried the entire time.

But she could not panic. She could not lose control. She could not show the slightest weakness.

Because she was Shui Bing'er, Xiao Yun's most trusted junior sister, an indispensable part of this rescue operation.

She had to stay calm, had to stay clear-headed, had to be the first to step forward when Xiao Yun needed her.

But now, Xiao Yun had returned safely. She no longer needed to hold herself together.

Xiao Yun said nothing. He only patted her back gently and let her hold him.

He could feel her tears soaking his lapel. He could feel her body trembling faintly. He could feel her breathing gradually calm from its hurried pace.

The wind and snow howled around them. Snowflakes fell on their bodies, fell on their heads, fell on the patch of clothing dampened by Shui Bing'er's tears.

Only after a long while did Shui Bing'er lift her head from Xiao Yun's arms. Her eyes were red, tiny ice crystals still clung to her lashes, and the tip of her nose was red as well. She looked like a little rabbit that had just burrowed out of