The imperial hall remained trapped in a dangerous stalemate.
Long Mingze's gaze remained fixed on Xia Yuqing. For several moments, neither of them spoke. The hall was filled with people, yet it felt as though only the two of them existed.
Even now, after everything that had happened, a part of him still hoped she would change her mind. He had searched for her without rest. He had compromised more than any emperor should ever compromise. He had offered her everything he could possibly offer.
"Do you really want to do this? Does it really have to be this way?" His voice echoed throughout the hall.
Xia Yuqing met his gaze calmly. There wasn't even the slightest hesitation in her eyes. "Unless you let us leave."
His expression tightened. He already knew what she wanted, but it was the one thing he could never give her. "You know I can't do that."
