Snow Empress's voice grew softer and softer.
"You became mischievous, running all over Ice Crystal Palace every day. You were either jumping on beds or climbing pillars, driving your little aunt crazy."
Ling Xiao scratched his head awkwardly when he heard that.
He had actually explained it long ago—he had only done those things to gain control over his body.
"Then, you began to develop a sense of responsibility. You helped the Ice Jade Scorpions endure their tribulations, and you led the soul beasts of the Far North to become stronger."
"You began to gain strength as well. From a little thing that could barely walk steadily, you became a powerhouse with five hundred thousand years of cultivation."
"You also began to take responsibility. When the heavenly tribulation was about to fall upon me, you stood in front of me without hesitation."
Snow Empress suddenly paused. "Now, you no longer need my protection either."
Snow Empress's voice was somewhat low, and a trace of loneliness flashed through her eyes.
"Before, you needed to sleep while holding me. You depended on me for everything."
Snow Empress's voice trembled slightly.
"But now... it seems that you no longer depend on me so much."
Ice Crystal Palace fell silent for a moment.
As Ling Xiao listened to Snow Empress, a complicated wave of emotions suddenly surged through his heart.
Heartache, guilt, and gratitude.
He had never imagined that Mother Snow Empress had been thinking about such things all along.
He had thought that as long as he became stronger, he could protect Snow Empress and contribute to the Far North. He thought those things would be the best repayment he could give her.
But it seemed he had overlooked the fact that what Snow Empress needed was not his repayment.
Not immortal herbs,