The black flames slowly receded, revealing his original skin. Cao Yuan gripped the Scroll of Sealing around his neck with both hands, the crimson in his eyes gradually fading as he broke into a violent coughing fit.
Lin Qiye released the tape in his hand and finally breathed a sigh of relief.
Cao Yuan in his berserk state was absurdly powerful. If Lin Qiye had not possessed two Forbidden Items this time, and if his divine might had not countered Black King Annihilation, he might not have won so easily.
Bare-chested, Cao Yuan lay on the ground, gasping for breath. His gaze fell on Lin Qiye, and a faint smile appeared at the corner of his lips.
"It really was you..."
"What?"
"There aren't many people in this world who can suppress Black King Annihilation."
"Is that so? If I'm not mistaken, Mask's captain can do it too."
"It's different. You can cleanse my sins."
"What are you talking about?"
Lin Qiye frowned slightly, seemingly unable to understand what Cao Yuan meant. Cao Yuan merely shook his head, climbed to his feet, and said nothing more.
Instructor Han walked over from the side and scrutinized Lin Qiye for a long while. "You weren't hurt, were you?"
"No."
"Mm." Instructor Han paused, then gave Lin Qiye a thumbs-up. "That move just now was beautiful!"
Lin Qiye smiled faintly.
Instructor Han reached out and helped Cao Yuan to his feet. Cao Yuan was about to say something when Instructor Han shook his head to stop him.
"You don't need to say anything. This time, the responsibility is entirely mine. I was the one who insisted on making you draw your blade. It has nothing to do with you."
Seeing his apology completely cut off, Cao Yuan sighed helplessly, pressed his palms together