At midnight, the night was deep and still. Only the insects chirped softly, yet their calls sounded unusually clear.
The Second Prince arrived at the entrance to the Dungeon in a black cloak.
Er Huo accompanied him, looking around in every direction.
The jailer on duty immediately offered him a cup of wine. "Your Highness, the night air is damp and cold. Have a drink to warm yourself."
The Second Prince was already agitated, and he had always enjoyed his wine.
Seeing what the jailer offered, he immediately drained the cup.
"What wine is this? It tastes odd, but it has quite a kick."
"It's what we usually drink, nothing expensive. I was worried Your Highness might catch a chill, so I brought some especially to warm you up."
"Thoughtful of you. Lead the way."
The Second Prince greatly enjoyed being flattered. With the wine warming his body, he even began walking with his feet splayed outward.
The jailer led him to a large door, took out a key, and unlocked it.
"This door was specially made. It was meant to hold dangerous prisoners condemned to death, yet now it's being used to lock up a girl without even the strength to truss a chicken."
"She's inside. I won't go in with you, Your Highness. Please be quick. I'll keep watch for you."
The jailer heaved the heavy door open.
There was only one candle inside. Its flame flickered faintly, making it difficult to see anything clearly. He could just make out a person's silhouette and hear shallow breathing.
The place felt utterly cold and sinister. He drew a deep breath and tiptoed inside.
As soon as he entered, the jailer shut the door and stood guard outside with Er Huo.
"Lan Ruoyue? Are you there?"
Lan Ruoyue was bound