Only ten minutes, and then I’ll start killing!
Shui Miao’s expression naturally turned tense and conflicted. Time seemed to transform into a cruel punishment, inflicting invisible suffering.
Seeing Shui Miao’s anxiety, Baiyang was extremely pleased instead.
Hei Sheyao began to feel uneasy. He had never encountered such a choice before, and he couldn’t help but worry about how his master would decide.
After a minute of tension, Shui Miao suddenly gently closed his eyes and stood there motionless.
Outwardly calm, Shui Miao’s mind raced, desperately seeking a solution.
The key to solving the problem was to capture the leader first—kill Baiyang, and the issue would be completely resolved.
These ghost soldiers were clearly forced into their actions. Once Baiyang was dead, they likely wouldn’t harm Fox Demon Seven and Golden Toad.
But how could he kill Baiyang?
Using Soul Devouring?
Or perhaps one of the Five Elements of Yin and Yang Qi?
Only ten minutes, after ten minutes I’ll start killing!
Shui Miao’s expression naturally tensed and twisted. The time felt like torture, inflicting invisible agony.
Watching Shui Miao’s tension, Bai Yang was immensely pleased.
The Black Snake Demon grew uneasy. He had never encountered such a choice before and couldn’t help worrying about what his master would decide.
After over a minute of tension, Shui Miao suddenly closed his eyes gently and stood motionless.
Outwardly calm, Shui Miao’s mind raced rapidly, pondering solutions to the problem.
To defeat the enemy, first capture their leader. Killing Bai Yang would solve everything.
These ghost guards were clearly acting under coercion. If Bai Yang were killed, they likely wouldn’t trouble the Fox Demon Seventh Sister and Golden Toad.
But how to kill Bai Yang?
Use Soul Devourer?
Or any of the Yin-Yang Five Elements energies?
Shui Miao wasn’t deeply versed in spells and knew a direct confrontation wouldn’t work. Only by lulling Bai Yang into complacency and launching a sudden attack would they have a chance.
A clever strategy was the only option.
After a moment’s thought, Shui Miao telepathically contacted Bai Feng within the Sacred Origin Ring, seeking her opinion.
Upon learning the situation, Bai Feng was also at a loss due to the extreme time constraint.
Nevertheless, she suggested that Shui Miao combine Yin and Water immortal energies for a surprise attack to freeze the ghost guards. Alternatively, Shui Miao could attack Bai Yang while she emerged from the ring to rescue the others, though neither plan was ideal.
Time ticked away.
Just as Shui Miao grew anxious, the Black Snake Demon suddenly telepathized, “Master, the Yin God taught me a secret technique. I’ll deal with him later; you rescue the others.”
“What technique?” Shui Miao’s heart stirred. “He’s a City God, not to be underestimated.”
“It’s called Illusion Art, a mental spell. I can’t guarantee it will work, but I can confuse him for a few seconds.” The Black Snake Demon had been waiting for Shui Miao’s decision, but seeing him motionless with closed eyes, he finally lost patience and revealed the technique taught by the Yin God.
“Illusion Art!”
Shui Miao immediately telepathized with Bai Feng to align their plans and prepare a joint counterattack.
At that moment, Bai Yang spoke, “Closing your eyes is useless. You now have only one minute left. If you remain like this when time runs out, they can only watch as they’re killed—this time, it’s permanent death, no reincarnation.”
“Bai Yang, you win!”
Shui Miao suddenly opened his eyes, looked at Bai Yang, and knelt directly before him. “I admit defeat. Please kill me and spare them. They’re innocent.” Shui Miao deliberately lowered his head and slumped to the ground, feigning a pitiful loss of spirit.
This was a tactic to lull the opponent into carelessness, then strike when least expected.
“Master, how can you kneel to this despicable villain?!” the Black Snake Demon suddenly screamed hysterically, pointing at Bai Yang. “Petty City God, don’t push us too far!”
“I am pushing you too far! What can you do about it?”
Bai Yang sneered, pointing at Shui Miao as he addressed the Black Snake Demon. “See? Your master has already knelt. You should kneel too.”
“Dream on!”
The Black Snake Demon focused his mind and activated the Soul Confusion Art. Unexpectedly, the City God wore a jade pendant that emitted a green light, countering the spell and confusing the Black Snake Demon instead!
Several ghost guards swarmed forward and seized the Black Snake Demon.
“…”
Plans change faster than they’re made. Shui Miao gritted his teeth. This Black Snake Demon was more trouble than help.
“Hahaha…”
Bai Yang laughed heartily. “Ridiculous! Using such a foolish trick against me? Do you really think I’m a weak scholar?” Suddenly, Bai Yang’s smile vanished. “Shui Miao, since you’ve knelt, I’m not heartless. I’ll give you a way out. To save their three lives, you must take a knife and slice yourself to death, piece by piece!”
Bai Yang’s cruelty was excessive, downright beastly.
As a City God, a local official, he should embody justice and selflessness.
Some senior ghost guards couldn’t stand it. An elder couldn’t help speaking up, “Sir, you are the City God! Doing this violates the underworld laws. Why not give me face and let this matter end here?” The old ghost guard implied advising the City God to calm down and avoid further mistakes.
“Whoosh!”
Bai Yang suddenly turned, glaring fiercely at the old ghost guard. “Give you face? Who do you think you are? My master’s aunt is dead, and you think a word from you will settle it?”
“Sir, Old Cai means well.”
“Yes, Sir. Old Cai has worked with us for years; he’s truly well-intentioned. You… you shouldn’t speak to him like that.”
“Please reconsider, Sir. Don’t compound your errors!”
“…”
The ghost guards spoke up one after another, all supporting Old Cai.
Old Cai led by virtue and was deeply respected among the ghost guards.
“Right!”
Seeing everyone speak, the ghost guard captain, who disliked Old Cai being berated, also spoke. “Sir, this is your personal matter. You shouldn’t involve us. We have the right not to act against underworld laws. If there’s no official business, we’ll take our leave.”
With the captain’s statement, the ghost guards holding knives to Golden Toad and Fox Demon Seventh Sister’s necks released them.
The opportunity had come!
At that moment, Shui Miao seized the chance and stood up. “Bai Yang, you say I killed your master’s aunt, the evil Black Mountain Mother, and now you seek revenge. Fine, then face me like a man in a fair duel. Abusing power, bullying the weak, ganging up—that’s what cowards do. If you win, I’m at your mercy. But if you lose or I kill you, accept your fate.”
Shui Miao’s challenge to Bai Yang was impeccably timed.
Bai Yang’s original goal was to torment Shui Miao, but a misspoken insult to Old Cai had provoked collective anger.
Now, with Shui Miao challenging him to a duel, he had no choice but to accept.
“Hmph! Arrogant, utterly arrogant!” Bai Yang turned and roared at Shui Miao. “You’re seeking death! You think I didn’t kill you earlier because I feared you? You think you’re so strong? You think I don’t know you three used treachery to kill my master’s aunt? What a joke! Saying I’m not man enough for a duel? Fine! I’ll grant your wish and duel you. I’ll show you my power!”
“Whoosh!”
Bai Yang waved his hand, and his long sword transformed into a folding fan.
Shui Miao coldly stepped back several paces, closed his eyes, and extended his divine sense.
Seeing this, the ghost guards retreated. They all knew Bai Yang’s sword was a powerful soul weapon—a single strike could scatter souls, unstoppable. Moreover, Bai Yang had a habit before killing: turning his sword into a fan to feign underestimation.
To Bai Yang’s surprise, Shui Miao closed his eyes.
“Hmph!”
Bai Yang narrowed his eyes and was about to swing the fan to test Shui Miao with sword energy when Shui Miao’s body suddenly surged with immense immortal energy. “Hmph! Petty trick! Trying to form a barrier with immortal energy? Do you think my sword is for show?”
“Swish!”
The moment Bai Yang swung the fan, Shui Miao raised his curved blade and slashed directly at Bai Yang.
Sword energy and blade energy collided, producing a howling wind.
But Shui Miao’s speed was far too slow in Bai Yang’s eyes.
Before Shui Miao’s blade could reach him, Bai Yang had already flashed behind Shui Miao and thrust his sword at Shui Miao’s back. “Kid, you’re too weak. Duelling you is an insult to me.”
The fan instantly transformed back into a sword, piercing directly into Shui Miao’s dantian!
“…”
All the ghost guards, the Black Snake Demon, Fox Demon Seventh Sister, and Golden Toad held their breath. They couldn’t believe Shui Miao was killed so quickly!
But then, something bizarre happened…
Bai Yang’s sword emitted an unusual white light, and surges of blazing Yang immortal energy rushed out along the blade, forcefully repelling Bai Yang!
Losing his sword was a first for Bai Yang.
The pure Yang immortal energy severely damaged the sword’s Yin power, extinguishing its spirit.
Shui Miao willed the sword out, storing it in the Sacred Origin Ring. Bai Feng immediately flew up, dispersed the sword’s soul, and claimed it for herself.
“How can this be? What’s wrong with your dantian?” Bai Yang had been confident of victory, but things had gone awry. Not only had he failed to kill Shui Miao, but he’d also lost his sword. He couldn’t understand it. He’d never seen a dantian like Shui Miao’s—pierced yet not only alive but emitting incredibly pure Yang immortal energy. It was unbelievable! Was he an upper-world immortal, truly the Spirit General’s disciple? Was he… was he playing dumb to devour the tiger?
Bai Yang’s inability to decipher Shui Miao caused his haughty demeanor to slightly soften.
Witnessing this, the ghost guards were even more astonished. They recognized the pure Yang immortal energy and immediately concluded that Shui Miao had significant backing. Otherwise, he wouldn’t dare challenge the City God, kill his master’s aunt, or feign weakness earlier—likely playing dumb to devour the tiger.
“Release them!”
The ghost guard captain, clever, immediately ordered his subordinates to release the prisoners.
Some ghost guards hesitated; without Sir Bai’s order, they didn’t dare release them.
But at that moment, Old Cai sighed. “Sir Bai has made such a grave mistake; he can’t remain City God hereafter. As underworld ghost guards, we must abide by underworld laws and not follow our superior’s impulsive errors. Xiao Lu, Xiao Hu, release them.”
Old Cai’s words were like a wake-up call, clarifying right and wrong for the ghost guards.
Once enlightened, the ghost guards hurriedly released the prisoners.
Freed, the Black Snake Demon instantly flashed before Bai Yang, fighting desperately to restrain him.
Fox Demon Seventh Sister and Golden Toad also rushed over, grabbing legs and arms.
“Get off!”
Bai Yang shook violently, immediately throwing off the Black Snake Demon, Fox Demon Seventh Sister, and Golden Toad.
At that moment, Shui Miao, injured from the dantian damage, turned around. Opening his eyes, he waved at the Black Snake Demon. “Stay back. Let me duel him alone.”
A trickle of blood escaped the corner of Shui Miao’s mouth.
“He’s injured!!”
“So he wasn’t playing dumb to devour the tiger?!”
“Then he’s done for… his dantian is ruined…”
The ghost guards whispered among themselves, discussing fervently. Seeing Shui Miao injured, they concluded he definitely wasn’t feigning weakness.
“Haha! Brat, I’ll uncover whatever secret you’re hiding!”
Seeing Shui Miao injured, Bai Yang was overjoyed. He immediately summoned a massive black energy, forcing it into Shui Miao’s seven orifices…
“Oh no! This is it! Bai Yang is performing Soul Expulsion and Spirit Seizure!”
Old Cai actually broke a sweat for Shui Miao. In truth, he had long disliked Bai Yang.
“Ah!” The ghost guard captain sighed heavily. “Sir Bai is too ruthless. With his power, even immortal energy can’t withstand his Soul Expulsion. If this Shui Miao survives, he’s certainly no ordinary person. His backer must be at least a Great Luo Golden Immortal.”
“You brought this on yourself!”
Shui Miao suddenly screamed in agony, then collapsed powerless to the ground. A vast black energy slowly seeped out from the surface of his skin…
Clever tactics were the only choice.
After a moment of contemplation, Shui Miao used mental telepathy to contact Feng Bai within the Shengyuan Ring, hoping to hear her opinion.
Upon learning the situation, Feng Bai was also at a loss, as the time was simply too short.
However, she still offered Shui Miao a suggestion—combine Yin and Water elemental immortal energies to launch a sudden attack, freezing the ghost soldiers. Alternatively, Shui Miao could directly attack Baiyang while she emerged from the Shengyuan Ring to rescue the others. But neither option was ideal.
Time ticked away second by second.
Just as Shui Miao grew anxious, Hei Sheyao suddenly sent him a mental message: “Master, Yin Shen taught me a secret technique. Let me deal with him later while you go save the others.”
“What secret technique?” Shui Miao’s heart stirred. “He’s the City God, not someone to be underestimated.”
“It’s called the Illusionary Art, a mental magic. I can’t guarantee it will work, but I can distract him for a few seconds.” Originally, Hei Sheyao had wanted to wait and see what Shui Miao would decide, but seeing Shui Miao motionless with his eyes closed, he finally couldn’t hold back and revealed the secret technique Yin Shen had taught him.
“Illusionary Art!”
Shui Miao immediately communicated with Feng Bai through mental telepathy, aligning their thoughts to prepare for a joint counterattack.
At this moment, Baiyang spoke: “Closing your eyes is useless. Now, you only have one minute left. When time runs out, if you’re still like this, they will be killed before your very eyes—this time, it’s permanent annihilation, no reincarnation.”
“Baiyang, you win!”
Suddenly opening his eyes, Shui Miao looked at Baiyang and knelt directly before him. “I surrender. Please kill me, but spare them. They are innocent.” Shui Miao deliberately lowered his head, slumping onto the ground like a defeated and pitiful soul.
Only ten minutes left. After ten minutes, I’ll start killing!
Shuimiao’s expression naturally tensed up, filled with anxiety. The time felt like torture, inflicting invisible pain upon him.
Seeing Shuimiao’s tension, Bai Yang, however, was immensely pleased.
The Black Snake Demon grew uneasy. He had never encountered such a choice before and couldn’t help but worry about what his master would decide.
After more than a minute of tension, Shuimiao suddenly closed his eyes gently and stood motionless.
Outwardly calm, Shuimiao’s mind was racing, pondering ways to resolve the problem.
“Capture the ringleader, and the gang will collapse.” Killing Bai Yang would solve everything once and for all.
These ghost guards, it was clear, were acting under coercion. If Bai Yang were killed, they likely wouldn’t trouble the Fox Demon Seventh Sister and Golden Toad.
But how could he kill Bai Yang?
Use Soul Devourer?
Or perhaps any of the energies from Yin-Yang and the Five Elements?
Shuimiao wasn’t deeply versed in magic and knew that a direct confrontation would be futile. The only way to increase his chances was to lull Bai Yang into complacency and launch a sudden attack.
A clever strategy was his only option.
After a moment’s thought, Shuimiao telepathically contacted Bai Feng inside the Sacred Origin Ring, seeking her advice.
Upon learning the situation, Bai Feng was also at a loss, given the extremely short time.
Nevertheless, she suggested that Shuimiao combine Yin-based immortal power and Water-based immortal power for a surprise attack to freeze the ghost guards. Alternatively, Shuimiao could launch a sudden assault on Bai Yang while she emerged from the Sacred Origin Ring to rescue the others. However, neither option was ideal.
Time ticked by relentlessly.
Just as Shuimiao grew anxious, the Black Snake Demon suddenly telepathically communicated: “Master, the Yin God taught me a secret move. Later, I’ll deal with him while you rescue the others.”
“What secret move?” Shuimiao’s heart stirred. “He’s a City God—we can’t underestimate him.”
“It’s called Illusion Magic, a type of mental spell. I can’t guarantee it will work, but I can confuse him for a few seconds.” The Black Snake Demon had initially waited to see what Shuimiao would decide, but as Shuimiao remained motionless with closed eyes, he finally lost patience and revealed the move taught by the Yin God.
“Illusion Magic!”
Shuimiao immediately telepathically communicated with Bai Feng to align their plans and prepare for a joint counterattack.
At that moment, Bai Yang spoke up. “Closing your eyes is useless. Now, you have only one minute left. If you still have your eyes closed when time runs out, they can only watch as they are killed. This time, death means permanent extinction—no reincarnation.”
“Bai Yang, you win!”
Shuimiao suddenly opened his eyes, looked at Bai Yang, and knelt directly before him. “I admit defeat. Please kill me and spare them. They are innocent.” Shuimiao deliberately lowered his head and slumped to the ground, pretending to be defeated and pitiable.
This was a tactic to lull the opponent into carelessness, then strike when least expected to deliver a fatal blow.
“Master, how can you kneel to this despicable villain?!” the Black Snake Demon suddenly screamed hysterically, pointing at Bai Yang. “You petty City God, don’t push us too far!”
“I am pushing you too far. What can you do about it?”
Bai Yang sneered, pointing at Shuimiao as he addressed the Black Snake Demon. “See? Even your master has knelt. You should kneel to me too.”
“Dream on!”
The Black Snake Demon focused his mind and activated the Soul Confusion Technique. Unexpectedly, the City God wore a jade pendant that emitted a green light, which instead confused the Black Snake Demon!
Several ghost guards rushed forward and seized the Black Snake Demon.
“…”
Plans change faster than they are made. Shuimiao gritted his teeth. This Black Snake Demon was more of a liability than an asset.
“Hahahaha…”
Bai Yang laughed heartily. “What a joke! Trying to use such a foolish trick against me? Do you really think I’m some weak scholar?” Suddenly, Bai Yang stopped laughing. “Shuimiao, since you’ve knelt to me, I’m not entirely heartless. I’ll give you a way out. If you want to save the lives of these three, you must take a knife and slice yourself to death, piece by piece!”
Bai Yang was going too far, behaving like a beast.
A City God, as a local official, should uphold justice and selflessness.
Several senior ghost guards could no longer stand by. An elderly one couldn’t help speaking up. “Sir, you are the City God! Acting like this, you’ve already violated the underworld laws. Why not give me some face and let this matter end here?” The old ghost guard implied that he wanted to advise the City God to calm down and avoid further mistakes.
“Whoosh!”
Bai Yang suddenly turned and glared fiercely at the old ghost guard. “Give you face? Who do you think you are? My martial uncle is dead, and you think a word from you will settle it?”
“Sir, Old Cai means well.”
“Yes, sir. Old Cai has worked with us for many years. He’s definitely not a malicious person. You… you shouldn’t have spoken to him like that.”
“Please reconsider, sir. Don’t compound your mistakes!”
“…”
The ghost guards spoke up one after another, all siding with Old Cai.
Old Cai, who led by virtue, was deeply respected among the ghost guards.
“Right!”
Seeing everyone speak up, the ghost guard captain, who disliked Old Cai being scolded, also spoke. “Sir, this is your personal matter. You shouldn’t involve us. We have the right not to act against the underworld laws. Now, if there’s no official business, we’ll take our leave.”
Seeing the captain speak, the ghost guards holding knives to Golden Toad and Fox Demon Seventh Sister’s necks released them.
The opportunity had arrived!
At that moment, Shuimiao seized the chance and stood up abruptly. “Bai Yang, you say I killed your martial uncle, the evil Black Mountain Old Matron, and now you want revenge. Fine, then face me like a man in a fair duel. Abusing power, bullying the weak, and ganging up on others—that’s what cowards do. If you win, I’ll accept any punishment. But if you lose or I kill you, accept your fate.”
Shuimiao’s challenge to Bai Yang at this moment was perfectly timed.
Bai Yang’s original goal was only to torment Shuimiao, but he had misspoken and humiliated Old Cai, provoking collective anger.
Now, with Shuimiao challenging him to a duel, he had no choice but to accept.
“Hmph! Arrogance, sheer arrogance!” Bai Yang turned and roared at Shuimiao. “You’re seeking death! Do you think I didn’t kill you earlier because I was afraid of you? Do you think you’re so powerful? Do you think I don’t know it was the three of you who used deceit to kill my martial uncle? What a joke, a joke! You say I’m not a man, afraid to duel? Fine, fine! I’ll grant your wish and duel you. I’ll show you my power!”
“Whoosh!”
Bai Yang waved his hand, and the long sword in his grip transformed into a folding fan.
Shuimiao coldly stepped back a few paces, closed his eyes, and extended his divine sense.
Seeing this, the ghost guards retreated. They all knew the sword in Bai Yang’s hand was a formidable soul weapon—a single strike could scatter souls, and no one could withstand it. Moreover, Bai Yang had a habit before killing: he would turn his sword into a folding fan to feign underestimation.
To Bai Yang’s surprise, Shuimiao closed his eyes.
“Hmph!”
Bai Yang narrowed his eyes and was about to wave the fan to test Shuimiao with sword energy when he saw a surge of immortal power erupt from Shuimiao’s body. “Hmph! Petty tricks! Trying to form a protective barrier with immortal power? Do you think my sword is for show?”
“Swish!”
The moment Bai Yang waved his fan, Shuimiao also raised his curved blade and slashed directly at Bai Yang.
Sword energy and blade energy collided, producing a howling wind.
But Shuimiao’s speed, in Bai Yang’s eyes, was far too slow.
Before Shuimiao’s blade could strike, Bai Yang had already flashed behind him and thrust his sword directly at Shuimiao’s back. “Kid, you’re too weak. Duelling you is an insult to me.”
The folding fan instantly transformed back into a sword and plunged directly into Shuimiao’s dantian!
“…”
All the ghost guards, the Black Snake Demon, Fox Demon Seventh Sister, and Golden Toad held their breath. They couldn’t believe Shuimiao had been killed so quickly!
But then, something bizarre happened…
Bai Yang’s sword emitted an unusual white light, and waves of scorching Yang-based immortal power surged out along the blade, forcefully repelling Bai Yang!
Losing his sword was a first for Bai Yang.
The pure Yang immortal power had severely damaged the sword’s Yin energy, extinguishing its spiritual nature.
Shuimiao used his mind to pull out the sword and store it in the Sacred Origin Ring. Bai Feng immediately flew up, dispersed the sword’s soul, and claimed it for herself.
“How is this possible? What’s wrong with your dantian?” In that one move, Bai Yang had thought victory was assured, but things had gone contrary to his wishes. Not only had he failed to kill Shuimiao, but he had also lost his sword. He couldn’t understand it—he had never seen a dantian like Shuimiao’s. Not only did Shuimiao not die after being pierced, but he also released incredibly pure Yang immortal power. It was unbelievable! Could he be an immortal from the upper realm, truly the disciple of the Spirit Commander? Was he… was he pretending to be weak to catch his opponent off guard?
Bai Yang couldn’t quite understand Shuimiao, and his arrogant demeanor softened slightly.
Seeing this, the ghost guards were even more astonished. They recognized the pure Yang immortal power and immediately concluded that Shuimiao must have significant backing. Otherwise, he wouldn’t dare provoke the City God, kill his martial uncle, and pretend to be weak earlier—likely to catch Bai Yang off guard.
“Release them!”
The ghost guard captain, a clever man, immediately ordered his subordinates to release the prisoners.
A few ghost guards hesitated. Without Sir Bai’s orders, they didn’t dare release them.
But at that moment, Old Cai sighed and said, “Sir Bai has made such a grave mistake. He won’t be able to remain City God hereafter. As underworld ghost guards, we must abide by the underworld laws and not follow our superior’s impulsive mistakes. Xiao Lu, Xiao Hu, release them.”
Old Cai’s words were like a wake-up call, making the ghost guards realize what they should and shouldn’t do.
Once awake, the ghost guards promptly freed the prisoners.
The moment the Black Snake Demon was released, it darted in front of Bai Yang, engaging in a life-and-death struggle, desperately entangling him.
Fox Demon Seventh Sister and Golden Toad also rushed over, grabbing Bai Yang’s legs and arms.
“Get off!”
Bai Yang shook violently, immediately throwing off the Black Snake Demon, Fox Demon Seventh Sister, and Golden Toad.
At that moment, Shuimiao, injured from the damage to his dantian, turned around, opened his eyes, and waved to the Black Snake Demon. “Don’t come over. Let me duel him alone.”
A trickle of blood seeped from the corner of Shuimiao’s mouth.
“He’s injured!!”
“So he wasn’t pretending to be weak?!”
“Then he’s done for. His dantian is destroyed…”
The ghost guards whispered among themselves, discussing fervently. Shuimiao’s injury led them to conclude he definitely wasn’t pretending to be weak.
“Haha! Brat, I want to see what secrets you’re hiding!”
Seeing Shuimiao injured, Bai Yang was overjoyed. He immediately conjured a large cloud of black energy and forced it into Shuimiao’s seven orifices…
“Oh no! This is the end! Bai Yang is attempting to expel the soul and seize the spirit!”
Old Cai actually broke into a sweat for Shuimiao. In fact, he had long been dissatisfied with Bai Yang.
“Ah!” The ghost guard captain sighed deeply. “Sir Bai is utterly merciless. With his formidable power, even immortal energy cannot withstand his soul-draining techniques. If this Shuimiao can still survive, he is certainly no ordinary individual. His protector must be at least a Great Golden Immortal.”
“You brought this upon yourself!”
Shuimiao suddenly screamed in pain, then collapsed powerless to the ground. A large cloud of black energy slowly seeped out from the surface of his skin…
“Master, how can you kneel before this despicable man!?” Hei Sheyao suddenly screamed hysterically, pointing at Baiyang. “You insignificant City God, don’t push too far!”
“I do push too far. What can you do about it?”
Baiyang sneered, pointing at Shui Miao and saying to Hei Sheyao, “See this? Your master has already knelt. You should kneel too.”
“In your dreams!”
As Hei Sheyao focused his mind, he immediately began casting the Soul Confusion Spell. Unexpectedly, a jade pendant on the City God’s body emitted a green light, which turned the spell back on Hei Sheyao, leaving him entranced!
Several ghost soldiers rushed forward and seized Hei Sheyao.
“…”
Plans couldn’t keep up with changes. Shui Miao gritted his teeth—Hei Sheyao had truly proven to be more of a liability than a help.
“Hahahaha…”
Baiyang laughed loudly. “What a joke! You actually thought such a foolish trick could work on me? You really think I’m just a weak scholar?”
Suddenly, Baiyang stopped laughing. “Shui Miao, since you’ve knelt before me, I’m not heartless. Now, I’ll give you a choice. If you want to save their lives, you must take a knife and carve yourself alive, slice by slice!”
Baiyang was pushing too far, behaving like a beast.
The City God should be a just and impartial official, a guardian of justice.
An elder ghost soldier couldn’t stand it anymore and finally spoke up: “My Lord, you are the City God! By doing this, you have already violated the laws of the Underworld. Please, my Lord, grant me this favor and let this matter end here.” The old ghost soldier was trying to persuade the City God to calm down and not continue down the wrong path.
“Whoosh!”
Baiyang suddenly turned around, glaring fiercely at the old ghost soldier and shouting, “Favor? Do you even know who you are? My master died, and you think it’s that easy to forget?”
“My Lord, Elder Cai only has your best interests at heart.”
“That’s right, my Lord. Elder Cai has worked with us for years. He’s a good man. My Lord, you shouldn’t speak to him like that.”
“Please reconsider, my Lord, don’t make another mistake!”
…
The ghost soldiers all spoke up, supporting Elder Cai.
Elder Cai was respected and beloved among the ghost soldiers for his virtue.
“Exactly!”
Seeing everyone speak up, the leader of the ghost soldiers, who also disliked seeing Elder Cai insulted, finally spoke. “My Lord, this is your personal matter. You shouldn’t drag us into it. We have the right not to violate the laws of the Underworld. Now, if there’s nothing else official to do, we’ll take our leave.”
Once the leader spoke, the ghost soldiers who had knives at the necks of Fox Demon Seven and Golden Toad immediately let go.
An opportunity had come!
At this moment, Shui Miao seized the chance and stood up suddenly. “Baiyang, you say I killed your master, that evil Black Mountain Old Mother. Now you want revenge. Fine, then please act like a real man and face me in a fair duel. Using your power to scheme, bullying others, ganging up on me—that’s what cowards do. If you win, I’ll let you do as you please. But if you lose, or if I kill you, then you must accept your fate.”
Shui Miao’s timing in challenging Baiyang was perfect.
Baiyang had only wanted to torment Shui Miao, but his careless words had insulted Elder Cai, provoking the anger of everyone present.
Now, Shui Miao had issued a challenge, and Baiyang had no choice but to accept.
“Hmph! Arrogant! Utterly arrogant!” Baiyang turned sharply, roaring at Shui Miao. “You’re asking for death! Do you think I didn’t kill you earlier because I was afraid of you? Do you think you’re so powerful? Do you think I don’t know that all three of you used underhanded tricks to kill my master? What a joke! You say I’m not a real man, that I’m afraid to face you alone? Fine! I’ll grant your request and fight you one-on-one, so you can see my true power!”
“Whoosh!”
With a wave of his hand, Baiyang’s long sword transformed into a folding fan.
Shui Miao coldly stepped back a few paces, closing his eyes and sensing with his spiritual awareness.
Seeing this, the ghost soldiers all retreated. They knew that Baiyang’s sword was a powerful soul weapon—its slash could scatter one’s soul, and no one could withstand it. Another reason was Baiyang’s habit: before killing someone, he liked to transform his sword into a folding fan, showing his contempt.
But to Baiyang’s surprise, Shui Miao had closed his eyes.
“Hmph!”
Baiyang narrowed his eyes, about to wave the fan to test Shui Miao with sword qi, when suddenly Shui Miao’s body erupted with a massive surge of immortal energy. “Hmph! Tricks! You think forming a protective barrier with your immortal energy will help? Do you think my sword is just for show?”
“Xiu!”
In the instant Baiyang swung the fan, Shui Miao also raised his curved blade and slashed directly at Baiyang.
The clash of sword qi and blade energy released a howling wind.
But in Baiyang’s eyes, Shui Miao’s speed was far too slow.
Shui Miao’s blade missed Baiyang, and Baiyang had already flashed behind him, thrusting his sword straight into Shui Miao’s back. “Kid, you’re just too weak. Fighting you one-on-one is an insult to me.”
The folding fan instantly transformed back into a sword, piercing directly into Shui Miao’s dantian!
“…”
All the ghost soldiers, Hei Sheyao, Fox Demon Seven, and Golden Toad held their breath. They couldn’t believe it—Shui Miao had been killed so quickly!
But then something strange happened…
Baiyang’s sword emitted an unusual white light. A surge of scorching Yang elemental immortal energy rushed out along the blade, forcing Baiyang to retreat!
It was the first time Baiyang had ever lost his sword.
The sword, struck by the pure Yang immortal energy, suffered severe damage to its Yin essence, its spirit extinguished.
Shui Miao used his mind to pull the sword out, immediately storing it in the Shengyuan Ring. Feng Bai quickly flew out, dispersing the soul within the sword and claiming it for herself.
“How is this possible? What’s wrong with your dantian?” Baiyang had thought victory was certain, but the outcome was the opposite. Not only had he failed to kill Shui Miao, but he had also lost his sword. Baiyang couldn’t understand. He had never seen a dantian like Shui Miao’s—after being pierced, it not only didn’t kill him but also released incredibly pure Yang elemental energy. It was simply unbelievable! Was he an immortal from the higher realms? Could he truly be the disciple of that Ling Shuai? Could it be that he was playing weak to gain the upper hand?
Baiyang couldn’t figure out Shui Miao, causing his arrogant expression to fade.
Seeing this, the ghost soldiers were even more shocked. They recognized pure Yang immortal energy. Instantly, they concluded that Shui Miao must have a powerful background. Otherwise, he wouldn’t dare to challenge the City God or kill his master. The slow attack earlier might have been a deliberate act to hide his strength.
“Release them!”
The leader of the ghost soldiers, a clever man, immediately ordered his subordinates to let the captives go.
Some ghost soldiers hesitated—they dared not release them without Baiyang’s command.
At this moment, Elder Cai sighed and said, “Baiyang has committed a grave mistake. He can no longer serve as the City God. We, as ghost soldiers of the Underworld, must abide by the laws of the Underworld. We cannot follow our superior’s rash decisions and commit crimes ourselves. Xiao Lu, Xiao Hu, release them.”
Elder Cai’s words were like a wake-up call, making the ghost soldiers realize what they should and shouldn’t do.
After regaining their senses, the ghost soldiers quickly released the captives.
As soon as Hei Sheyao was freed, he immediately flashed in front of Baiyang, risking his life to engage him in a fierce struggle, refusing to let go.
Fox Demon Seven and Golden Toad also rushed over, grabbing Baiyang’s legs and arms.
“Get off!”
Baiyang violently shook, sending Hei Sheyao, Fox Demon Seven, and Golden Toad flying.
At this moment, Shui Miao, already injured from the dantian wound, turned around, opened his eyes, and waved at Hei Sheyao, “Don’t come over. Let me fight him alone.”
A trickle of blood flowed from the corner of Shui Miao’s mouth.
“He’s injured!!”
“So he’s not faking his weakness!?”
“In that case, he’s doomed. His dantian has been destroyed…”
The ghost soldiers whispered among themselves, concluding from Shui Miao’s injury that he was definitely not pretending to be weak.
“Haha! Brat, I’m going to see what secrets you’re hiding inside you!”
Seeing Shui Miao injured, Baiyang was overjoyed and immediately transformed into a mass of black mist, forcefully entering Shui Miao’s seven orifices…
“No good! We’re done for! Baiyang is trying to extract his soul!”
Elder Cai was actually worried for Shui Miao. In truth, he had disliked Baiyang for a long time.
“Ah!” The leader of the ghost soldiers sighed heavily. “Baiyang is too ruthless. With his power, even immortal energy can’t resist his soul extraction. If this Shui Miao survives, he must be no ordinary person. His backer must at least be a Great Immortal.”
“This is your own doing!”
Suddenly, Shui Miao let out a painful scream, his expression twisted in agony, then he helplessly collapsed to the ground. A large amount of black mist slowly seeped out from his skin…
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