The battle between Ye Lingyun and Bing Qing'er had reached a fever pitch. Their powers intertwined on the platform, creating a feast of spectacle and strength. Yet just as both thought the battle would end in a draw, a familiar voice suddenly rang out in Ye Lingyun's mind.
"Host Ye Lingyun, hidden quest triggered: 'Power of Smiling.' Keep smiling in the face of despair, and you will obtain the ultimate evolution of the Ice Seal Throne-Ice Empress Descends. Quest reward: Ice Seal Throne upgrade."
Ye Lingyun's heart jolted, and determination flashed in his eyes. He knew this was his only chance to turn the tables. He took a deep breath. Though his body was exhausted to its limits, the corners of his mouth slowly lifted into a smile.
"Senior Sister Bing Qing'er, thank you for giving me such a wonderful battle." Ye Lingyun's voice echoed above the platform, carrying a hint of ease and confidence.
Bing Qing'er froze for a moment, unable to understand how Ye Lingyun could still smile at a time like this. Yet a trace of unease rose in her heart. She sensed that he still had a trump card up his sleeve.
"Ye Lingyun, whatever moves you have left, go ahead and use them." A note of wariness crept into Bing Qing'er's voice.
Ye Lingyun did not answer. He slowly rose to his feet, and the phantom of the Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox appeared behind him once more. This time, however, its eyes shone with an unprecedented radiance.
"Ice Seal Throne, Ice Empress Descends!" Resolve rang in Ye Lingyun's voice. His Nine-Tailed Heavenly Fox phantom suddenly let out a sky-shaking roar, and a powerful current of cold enveloped the entire platform.
Bing Qing'er's expression changed drastically. She could feel the power within that current of