"Husband, hold on a little longer."
The pale golden lake lay smooth as a mirror. Xu Lanqing's consciousness stood on its surface when he heard a familiar voice. A delighted smile spread across his face.
"Xue'er, you're back?" he hurriedly called into the void.
"I'm on my way. I'll be there in five minutes." The Snow Empress's voice came from all directions, sending ripples across the lake.
"Then how can you talk to me?" Xu Lanqing asked, a little disappointed. He had thought the Snow Empress had already returned.
Still, things were fine for now. He only needed to hold out for another ten minutes until the Snow Empress returned. In the face of absolute power, everything would be resolved.
"Because we signed a contract before. When we're close to each other, we can communicate," the Snow Empress explained.
"Husband, you have to protect yourself, understand? I'll be there soon!" Her voice was full of concern.
"Don't worry. I know," Xu Lanqing reassured her.
The lights were bright and soft. The three sides had gathered, making the small bedchamber feel even more cramped.
Xu Tianran watched Xu Lanqing stroll in, with a pool of blood behind him.
It was strange. Why had he come in without saying a word, then simply stood there in a daze?
Xu Tianran saw nothing amiss. He chuckled, raised the scroll of imperial decree in his hand, and said calmly:
"Fourth Brother wants it too? What a pity. It bears my name, and the decree is already written. How could it be changed?"
"Indeed, it can't be changed."
Xu Lanqing nodded, then suddenly added, "But as long as it can't leave this room, it's useless."
"You think..."
He glanced at Snow Chen, Nangong Wan, and Ma Xiaotao behind Xu Tianran. His gaze lingered on