Lin Xiao exhaled a long breath. The closer they came to the frozen lands, the colder it grew.

Even as he spoke, the white mist of his breath hung clearly in the air.

This is going to be troublesome.

You seem to know a lot about this Leng Hantian? Zhang Nu frowned. To him, nothing was more important than saving Ling Xi. Even if it meant passing through fire and blades, he would do itbecause only that could bring her back!

But Lin Xiaos hesitation frustrated him. They hadnt even entered the frozen lands yet, and already he was saying it would be difficult. What would happen once they truly faced danger? Would he shrink back then, too?

You may not know, but Leng Hantians influence once swept across the entire black market. Anything placed there, if he so much as showed interest, no one else dared touch. He once entered the frozen lands alone and defeated a snow beast with nothing but his own strength. Thats the kind of man he isnot one to be provoked. If we enter his city, theres no guarantee well ever walk out again.

If that was true, then who would save Ling Xi? Zhang Nu knew Lin Xiaos words werent without merit. But his desperation to save Ling Xi wouldnt allow him to retreat.

If youre afraid, then go back! Ill go alone! He stormed forward, but Lin Xiao immediately pulled him back.

Dont be reckless! Im talking this through with you. I want to save Ling Xi tooIve come this far with you, how could I abandon you now? More importantly, Ling Xi is still waiting for us to save her!

They had been through much together. Lin Xiao wasnt the kind to turn his back on that. He would enter the city no matter the danger. But that didnt mean they should rush in unprepared.

Then what do you mean? Zhang Nus frustration boiled over. You know how much Ling Xi means to meI cant just sit here!

I know! Lin Xiao raised his voice, trying to cool Zhang Nus hot head. But we need a plan. If we charge in blindly, itll only end badly.

What plan is there to make right now?

Listen first. Once were inside, we split updont let people see were together. If trouble arises, then we act as one. You focus on asking about the Fragrant Snowbloom. Ill gather information on Leng Hantian.

It was a sound strategy. And since Zhang Nu was desperate for any chance, he reluctantly accepted. Fine. Lets head down the mountain.

Good. If you hear anything about the herb, signal me immediately.

Understood. Zhang Nu nodded and hurried down the slope.

Watching his companions back, Lin Xiao couldnt shake his unease. Zhang Nus urgency might cause more harm than good. But with no better choice, this was the only path left. S .

Soon, Lin Xiao arrived at the city gates, but Zhang Nu was nowhere in sight.

Halt! Who are you?

Of course, the gates were guarded. Lin Xiao wondered how Zhang Nu had managed to gain entry so easily, while for him, it looked anything but simple.

His mind raced for a plausible excuse, but before he could speak, the guards cut him off.

Hesitating like thatyoure clearly up to no good! Seize him!

Lin Xiao was stunned. He hadnt even stepped through the gate, and already they wanted to arrest him?

Wait, wait! I came here to negotiate a trade with your city lord! If you seize me now, who will conduct that trade? Wouldnt that be your lords loss?

Quick thinkinghe threw out Leng Hantians name. Surely the guards wouldnt dare if their lord was invoked.

City lord? A trade? Dont spout nonsense! If that were true, why would you be here in Cold City?

Cold City? Lin Xiao froze.

Hadnt the old man just told them this was called Imperial City? How was it that after a single trip down the mountain, the name of the city had changed?