Back at their temporary camp, Xiao Tian noticed Ling'er glancing at him shyly. She handed him a small, intricately carved pendant.
"This is a Snow Empress's charm," she explained. "It will protect you."
Xiao Tian took it, their fingers brushing briefly. The touch sent a strange warmth through Ling'er's usually cold body.
"You're full of surprises," he said with a teasing smile.
Ling'er blushed, turning away. "D-Don't get the wrong idea. I just…want to keep you safe."
Meanwhile, Qian Renxue observed the interaction from a distance, her golden eyes narrowing slightly. For reasons she couldn't explain, she felt an odd pang of jealousy.