To celebrate the opening of the Soul Master Competition, Star Luo City was draped in red from end to end, as though veiled beneath a gauzy canopy.
The streets and alleys bustled with lively excitement. There were Soul Masters from the competing academies as well as common spectators gathered from all around. The men looked spirited and heroic, while the women covered their faces as they laughed softly. Smiling faces and cheerful chatter filled the extraordinary revelry.
After the little episode with Xiao Hongchen, Ling Bai held Snow Empress's hand as they wove through the crowd. The night breeze brushed past them, and several strands of her snow-like hair occasionally playfully swept across his face. A faint fragrance drifted into his nose, like the scent of some flower—subtle yet undeniably real.
Once they broke free of the crowd, the view ahead suddenly opened up, revealing brilliant lights soaring into the night sky.
Ling Bai recognized them and smiled. "They're Star Luo Empire's traditional Sky Lanterns. During festivals, people light Sky Lanterns to pray for blessings. Before lighting one, they write their wishes on it, letting them rise with the lantern into the heavens as they pray for the gods above to protect them year after year.
"The Soul Master Competition is only held once every twenty years in the Star Luo Empire. To the people of Star Luo City, it's a day even more important than the New Year."
"Thanks for the explanation, but..."
Snow Empress turned her head to stare at the utterly innocent-looking culprit, then forcefully pulled her hand back. I let it slide when you held it for a while, you brat, but why are you still reluctant to let go?!
Ling Bai acted as though nothing had happened. All he could say was that Snow Empress