Rustle, rustle, rustle...
Sand trickled slowly through the hourglass, unwittingly forming a mound at the bottom. The silver moon overhead had also moved to the other end of the sky.
Xie Jinhuan stood with his long spear held crosswise, watching the figure several miles away. The long, taut wait had begun to wear on his mind, but he also understood that the Corpse Ancestor was waiting for them to relax. Not a trace of carelessness showed on his face.
The Goddess of War, Old Lü Yan, and the others likewise kept their nerves taut, cautious even in their breathing.
Of everyone present, only the White-Haired Immortal was different. Without the slightest tension of drawn swords and cocked crossbows, she paced before the crowd with the Red Umbrella over her shoulder, occasionally muttering silently. From the shape of her lips, she seemed to be saying:
"Xie Ruyi, Xie Shili..."
Seeing this, Xie Jinhuan knew the White-Haired Immortal was helping name her disciple's grandson. He was quite touched, but this really was not a suitable time to go over and offer suggestions.
Ye Hongshang stood beside him, watching Little Qixia pace back and forth. Perhaps finding this stalemate rather boring, she considered for a moment, then walked behind Xie Jinhuan, rested her chin on his shoulder, and slowly slid her hand around his waist toward his front.
"Tired of waiting? Want your big sister to help you relax?"
"Hmm?"
Xie Jinhuan instantly perked up. Doing his best to maintain the stance of a cool young hero, he spoke softly through his thoughts.
"Wife, this probably isn't the right setting. We're surrounded by distinguished people, and the Corpse Ancestor is right over there..."
"The fighting hasn't started. Being too tense beforehand won't help you in battle. I'm helping you relieve the pressure."
"How