Waiting for the Hare

As the word "Break" fell, the white chains wrapped around and restraining the Golden Core in Zhang Tie's dantian shattered with a crash, dissolving into specks of spiritual light.

The long-lost sensation of power surged back like a burst dam. His limbs and bones gave off a faint hum, spiritual energy roiled around him, and his previously suppressed aura steadily rose, firmly returning to the mid-Core Formation stage.

He let out a long breath of foul air, and a sharp glint flashed through his eyes.

Before he could savor the mysteries of his restored cultivation, the most urgent matter was increasing his strength.

With a thought, a pleasant clattering rang out. A dazzling little mountain instantly appeared on the open ground before him—the high-grade spirit stones he had hastily collected earlier.

The situation had been too critical then for him to count them. Now, as his divine sense swept over them like a tide, his heart trembled slightly. There were more than one hundred and thirteen thousand high-grade spirit stones!

The crystalline spirit stones were piled together, releasing spiritual energy so dense it had nearly formed tangible mist. The temporary cave dwelling shimmered with flowing light, and even the air seemed to grow viscous.

"Fortune really is found in danger." The corner of Zhang Tie's mouth curved into an almost imperceptible smile. His low voice carried both self-mockery and the relief of surviving a desperate situation.

Without hesitation, he immediately sat cross-legged and formed an ancient, profound hand seal.

In an instant, a low incantation echoed through the air. The space behind him twisted, and an enormous Taotie phantom slowly condensed. Its massive mouth opened slightly, and a devouring force suddenly erupted.

Bang, bang, bang... Bang, bang, bang...

Explosions rang out in rapid succession, like beans popping in a pan.