Night deepened.
The autumn wind stirred the moon orchid tree in the courtyard, carrying its floral fragrance to the stone table.
Qian Renxue rose and put her golden hairpin into her Soul Tool.
"Brother, I'll head to the guest room."
Qian Chen nodded.
"Let's cultivate together tomorrow morning."
"All right."
Qian Renxue took a few steps, then looked back at him.
"Brother, good night."
"Good night."
Only then did she turn and leave.
Shui Bing'er and Huo Wu also returned to their respective rooms.
Shui Yue'er stood by the courtyard gate and waved at Qian Chen.
"Qian Chen, remember to call me tomorrow."
"Got it."
Shui Yue'er left, satisfied.
Only Qian Chen, Snow Empress, and Ice Empress remained in the courtyard.
Ice Empress was still clinging to Qian Chen's arm.
She glanced toward the guest rooms, then returned her gaze to Qian Chen.
"Chen'er."
"Hmm?"
"Stay with me tonight."
Snow Empress held Qian Chen's fingers without letting go.
"It's already very late."
"That's exactly why he should stay with me."
Ice Empress stepped closer.
Her emerald hair slipped from her shoulder and brushed against Qian Chen's robe.
She wore a pale green dress that day.
Its hem fell just below her knees, revealing a length of fair calf.
Moonlight fell on her ankles, lending them a delicate sheen.
Ice Empress raised her hand and gently touched Qian Chen's chest.
"Snow Sister, surely you can spare me even this one night?"
Snow Empress looked at her.
"What are you planning to do?"
"Just sleep."
Ice Empress took Qian Chen's hand and pressed his fingers against her cheek.
"I only recently broke through. I need someone to stay with me, too."
Snow Empress did not answer immediately.
She looked at Qian Chen.
"Chen'er, decide for yourself."
Qian Chen glanced at Ice Empress.