"Uh, Host, this isn't a timed mission. There's no rush."
These words made Qiao Xixi's heart leap into her throat. 'Is the System issuing a mission like this because my cubs are going to be in danger?'
After they finished eating, Jin Ling spread out the beast-hide mats he had taken out.
"Xixi, you and the cubs should get some sleep."
Qiao Xixi lay down on the mats with her cubs, but her mind kept replaying the system's words, and she couldn't fall asleep.
Jin Ling sensed Qiao Xixi's unease and thought she was being affected by the aura of the Black Mountain. He lay down beside her, his warm palm enveloping her cool hand.
"Don't worry. Sunxiao and Feiyan will take turns keeping watch tonight. Nothing will happen."
Qiao Xixi nodded. The familiar scent of him calmed her anxious heart, and before she knew it, she had drifted off to sleep.
In her dream, Qiao Xixi saw a small, frail figure collapse at her feet.
