Demon Pool World

In the bitter winter, atop a high mountain, waves of yin energy swept through the air.

A Great Iron City stood here, towering and precipitous, its walls blue-black.

Countless ghosts and monsters stood upon the battlements before Li Qi, led by Ox-Head and Horse-Face. The rest were demons of every kind, venomous, bitter, and vicious. Some were drenched in blood from head to toe, others had their hair exposed and disheveled.

Some went naked and barefoot, carrying great staves as they drove others onward from behind. Some lay upon iron beds and bronze pillars, their bodies scorched to ruin before swiftly regenerating.

Several hundred lesser ghosts had also set up blazing furnaces and giant cauldrons, boiling hot water as they clamored for Li Qi to enter. There were forests of blades, spears, and swords as well—touch them, and one's body and head would shatter and fall apart, tumbling amid the boiling liquid.

Countless evil ghosts stood to either side, surrounding the circle and threatening Li Qi.

Ox-Head and Horse-Face stood at the front. Ox-Head shouted, "Sin and blessing never lie; they are summoned by man himself. If you can turn your heart toward the Dharma, the ghosts will naturally vanish! If not, then even if you bring out the Buddha and True Immortals, you will not escape your guilt!"

Li Qi shook his head. "You two ghost officials, I know this act violated the rules. I will make amends in the future. I have already prepared sacrificial offerings and incense, enough for all of you in the underworld to enjoy. Please be patient. You may supervise the ritual at any time; there will absolutely be no omissions."

"Insolence! You still dare bribe us! Do you truly think ghost officials are your hawks and hounds, to be ordered about as you