The Imperial Bell as Betrothal Gift, I'll Make You My Empress!

He wasn't asking for her opinion. He was stating a fact he had to see through.

He had already prepared himself for Ning Hongye to try to talk him out of it, to stop him.

After all, just hearing the names Starry Sky Ancient Road and forbidden grounds of the Divine Ruins was enough to evoke endless peril.

Yet Ning Hongye's reaction was completely beyond his expectations.

After listening, her cool eyes, clear as autumn waters, showed not the slightest hint of fear or hesitation.

She simply gazed at him, at the unshakable resolve in his eyes.

Then, with utter determination, she spoke words Xiao Yang would never forget for the rest of his life.

"However dangerous the Divine Ruins may be, I'll brave them with you."

Those simple words seemed to contain the greatest power in the world. They struck the softest place in Xiao Yang's heart.

He froze.

He looked at the woman before him, at her face, which should have been as cold as frost, but was now filled with determination.

An indescribable warmth welled up from the depths of his heart, instantly dispelling the grief of his father's departure and the exhaustion of battling the enemy host.

So he wasn't alone.

So there was still someone in this world who was willing to brave any danger by his side.

"You fool."

Xiao Yang could no longer hold back his emotions. He pulled her tightly into his arms, wishing he could meld her into his very bones and blood.

"It's dangerous there." His voice was choked with emotion.

"I know." Ning Hongye leaned against his chest, listening to his strong heartbeat as she replied softly, "I wouldn't feel at ease letting you go alone."

Of course she wouldn't feel at ease.

This man was a walking disaster.