The two returned to the Royal Academy, then went straight from the Ice Palace's Secret Chamber to North Street, the liveliest street in Snow Capital City. The market outside was as bustling as ever. Vendors at their stalls enthusiastically called out to the passing crowds, their eyes brimming with hopes and expectations for life. The mercenaries occasionally cast curious glances their way. Those who took an interest would pick up an item and launch into bold, sweeping negotiations, their voices so loud they seemed determined to make the whole street hear them. More often than not, they looked as though they were picking a fight, but anyone familiar with them knew that this was simply the mercenaries' unrestrained style. The clamor swept away the sorrow in her heart, even bringing her a little joy.
"Seventh Sister, would you like to see if there's anything good?"
"Do you want to look, Ninth Sister?"
"No, I just think their attitude toward life is very-"
"Carefree!" Seeing her rack her brains, Qian Wanyu supplied the word. "That's because Snow Capital City is still relatively peaceful. Don't forget that all of this is an illusion. When destruction comes, they'll be just like the people of Dream Capital City, trying every possible means to escape the capital they consider dangerous, or else-fight back."
Jian Tongyao stiffened, then gave a self-mocking smile. "You're right, Seventh Sister."
Seeing her spirits suddenly sink, Qian Wanyu added, "The entire Seven-Colored Continent is in turmoil right now. Even this brief spell of carefree living in Snow Capital City is a blessing. Ninth Sister, you need to understand that even if we help, there's only so much we can do. They can only rely on themselves. What we can do is fulfill our own responsibilities."
Jian Tongyao understood that reasoning. In