Keeping the secret realm passage open consumed a considerable amount of magic power. Thus, once it was over, the Sky Swallowing Ancestor continuously activated the devouring true essence of his true form to absorb spiritual energy from heaven and earth, using it to restore his magic power.
It was precisely for this reason that his perception of the spiritual energy between heaven and earth was exceptionally keen. Almost instantly, he sensed something unusual within Li Qing's body.
"Eh? Did you absorb some object of extreme yin into your body? Why is your aura so strange?"
As soon as the Sky Swallowing Ancestor spoke, several gazes fell upon Li Qing.
It could only be said that Li Qing's appearance was indeed rather terrifying now. Not only had his hair been burned away, but his once lean and sturdy body had become incomparably gaunt, covered in marks that could have been frostbite or burns. He looked like a man whose blood and vitality had withered, already stumbling into old age.
It was difficult to imagine what exactly he had experienced after entering the secret realm!
Li Qing's heart sank with a thud. He knew he might not be able to conceal this matter any longer, so he immediately gave a bitter smile and prepared to confess truthfully.
Yet the Sky Swallowing Ancestor merely waved his sleeves indifferently and said without concern, "If you do not wish to speak, then there is no need to. Everyone has their own secrets. We are not unreasonable people who force others without regard for reason."
"You need only remember one thing: you are an elder of the Lingyun Sect. Do not do anything harmful to the sect, and that will be enough!"
Hearing this, Li Qing's heart brimmed with gratitude.
There were truly few senior experts