On that freezing winter night, even Xu Sheng, the traveling merchant, broke out in a cold sweat. He knew the desert well, which only made him fear it more.
He realized something terrible must have happened today!
Many people panicked, terrified of the unknown. If they understood what was happening, if they knew the truth, perhaps they would not be so afraid.
More than anything, the pitch-black surroundings deepened their unease. Even with a hand held right beneath their eyes, they could see nothing.
Many of them were blind despite having their eyes open. Life, death, and the future were beyond their control; all they could do was leave their fate to heaven.
Qin Ming fared a little better. He could make out the shapes nearby. He stayed calm, gripping the Mutton Fat Jade Iron Saber, ready to strike at any moment!
Suddenly, a woman's sobs sounded behind them, making many hearts skip a beat.
"I'm sorry..." the woman said through her tears.
"Then let go of me. My neck's bleeding badly. My head's about to fall off," a man said, his voice hoarse and weak.
Not far from the group led by the traveling merchant, sweat covered Cui Hong's brow. After luring Old Elephant away, he had quietly returned.
He had reached an agreement with Old Elephant and confirmed that Cui Chongyi's life was not in danger. So he had come first to pursue Cui Chonghe, who was close at hand.
Cui Hong knew something of the desert's dangers, but at his level, he could pass through its outskirts without trouble as long as he did not seek death.
He followed the mountain wall, only to circle the same spot several times. He hurriedly recited the Heart Cleansing Mantra and employed a powerful secret art. At last, he