So the Snow Woman Archer did not accompany them, precisely because her experience made her acutely aware that overestimating oneself is the last thing one should do, while the Frost Matron needed to remain on the ice mountain to oversee the ritual.
Therefore, White Snake only took the Hero and the Gleaming Scale Serpent with her.
The Hero wasn't reckless either. If she had decided to come along without any plan or preparation, neither White Snake nor the Snow Women would have allowed her to join in this perilous endeavor.
"Sister White Snake, then when the time comes, we'll proceed as we agreed..."
The Hero crouched slightly and reached out to touch the smooth and cold scale of White Snake, swallowing her saliva before she spoke.
"Mhm, I'm responsible for reinforcing the Sealing, and you're responsible for protecting me." White Snake remained still but her gentle yet authoritative voice came through the blizzard, confirming their plan of action.
