On the surface of Woundless Lake, a covered boat drifted along. At the bow stood a white-haired old man with a slightly stooped waist, a bamboo hat strapped to his back. His sleeves were rolled up a little, revealing arms far stronger than suited his age. He slowly worked the oars, and the boat moved neither hurriedly nor slowly, gliding forward with astonishing steadiness.
At the stern sat a young girl in a long black silk dress. Her skin was like congealed cream, her waist like a willow branch, and her face exquisitely beautiful. Yet her delicate brows were faintly furrowed, as though she were dwelling on unhappy thoughts. Sitting at the bow with her knees hugged to her chest, she stared blankly at the lake, lost in thought.
"Miss, it's cold at the bow. Go inside and rest." At this moment, a middle-aged woman in a purple dress emerged from the cabin, draping a cloak over the girl's shoulders as she urged her.
The girl was also a Foundation Establishment cultivator, so she naturally would not catch the chill of the mortal world. However, every so often, Woundless Lake released an exceptionally terrifying cold qi. Even Golden Core cultivators could barely withstand it beneath the lake's surface. Though they were currently above the water, a Foundation Establishment cultivator like the girl would still be affected if she remained at the bow too long.
"I wonder how Father and Mother are doing now. Are they safe?" the girl sighed softly.
"The prince is His Majesty's own flesh and blood. Though he has been punished for the moment, he will not lose his life. He has merely lost his freedom for now. Perhaps after some time, when His Majesty remembers their old bond, he will pardon the prince. The prince has