"It's been almost ten years since the Thunder Goddess disappeared," Xiao Wen said, her voice pitched low in the reverent hush of the palace hall. "Is there a way we can help her?"
Ling let out a slow, relieved sigh. "Five years left, then. If we hadn't crossed paths, it might have become too late."
Xiao Wen's brow furrowed. "I always thought a Fate Fragment couldn't be separated from its master without killing both. How did you leave the Goddess's side, and both of you still survive?"
Ling fixed her with a serene, enigmatic stare. "Once you reach the Fate Saint stage," she said softly, "there's very little that can't be done." She left it at that, though Xiao Wen felt a rush of renewed determination. If such feats are possible at higher stages… then I have more reason than ever to climb.
