Hearing Medusa's merciless words, even the normally composed Gu He was at a loss for how to respond.
Silence hung high in the sky for a moment before Gu He's somewhat awkward laughter broke it.
As the standoff overhead continued, Xiao Yan arrived at Han Chen's room and changed out of his disguise.
"Well? Shall we go?"
Hearing Xiao Yan's words, Han Chen nodded, then released his Gold-Devouring Insects to scout throughout the palace. Yao Lao also sent out his spiritual power, searching for hidden doors and the like.
They soon discovered a secret passage and followed it to the Holy Water Altar, the most sacred heart of the Snake-People Tribe.
Looking at the dense Bamboo Forest ahead, Xiao Yan was about to step forward when Han Chen grabbed him.
"I'll go talk to her. If we can settle this peacefully, there's no need to fight."
Xiao Yan wanted to refuse, but after giving it some thought, he finally nodded in agreement.
Han Chen then walked alone into the depths of the forest. Before long, he spotted Queen Medusa beside the Cold Pool, performing a dance of blessing in its waters.
Sensing the gaze behind her, Medusa's lips curved upward. She slowly turned around and reclined languidly in the pool.
"I knew you would come."
"You knew I was coming?"
Hearing Medusa's words, Han Chen immediately realized that she had already seen through his earlier meeting with Xiao Yan.
What surprised him, however, was that Medusa had not captured either of them. After all, they were also after the heavenly flame.
Medusa glanced at the blue-green flame on the little island in the lake, then looked back at Han Chen.
"There was no need. First, even with both of you here, you can't change anything. Second, giving the heavenly flame