Dim, illusory light fell across the dust-covered bed.
A faint crackling came from the dried corpse as it twisted its neck. The bones within its desiccated skin turned, producing crisp sounds.
"Exile... you are tightly entangled by a 'calamity of bloodshed.' You cannot resolve this trouble."
"If you need my power, then negotiate a deal with me first."
Ji Yan dusted off his shoulder and said, "A deal goes both ways."
"I want your power, and you want me to help lift your seal and restore your freedom."
"So, when it comes to this deal, I hope you will not be too aggressive."
The dried corpse raised its head slightly. A faint glint flickered deep within its sunken eye sockets.
It seemed not to have expected Ji Yan to lay the terms of the deal bare so directly, even anticipating what it was about to say.
"You are the one asking for help."
"Those who ask must lower their stance and give the one they ask something to gain. Only I can save you from your desperate situation."
"Is that so?" Ji Yan said. "There is also a 'trading partner' in the room next door. If you are not going to trade sincerely, then goodbye."
"As you wish." The dried corpse sneered. "Anyway..."
Before it could finish, Ji Yan turned and left, heading straight for the door. The sight left the dried corpse slightly stunned.
"Wait!"
Seeing that Ji Yan truly intended to leave, the dried corpse finally called out to stop him.
"I was only making a few jokes. There is no need to take it so seriously..."
Ji Yan halted, then turned back.
The dried corpse no longer beat around the bush. "1,400 milliliters of human blood."
"I will lend you my power."
Ji Yan frowned. "1,400? That