Upon the Hanbai jade staircase of Da Liang, Li Huowang had one foot placed on the step above, another on the step below, his eyes carrying a trace of unease as he looked toward Bai Lingmiao in front of him.
He reached out and tore the ribbon from Bai Lingmiao's face, revealing pupil-less white eyes beneath.
White pupils, matched with her pale skin, coupled with her white hair, made Li Huowang feel for a moment as if before him stood an untiring sculpture carved from jade.
"I'm alright, Brother Li, don't worry," she said. "I'll protect you in the future."
As Bai Lingmiao spoke, she gently leaned into Li Huowang's embrace, a faint smile appearing on her face.