The spreading firelight diffused through the darkness, illuminating the convulsing outline. The Ruler, like a six-headed giant serpent, met its end beneath the cleaving stroke of the Brilliant Sword.
Black blood gushed forth like a spring and spread outward. Countless Solidified Souls broke free from the shackles of blood, rose into the air, then swiftly dissipated beneath the reflection of that dazzling blade.
The sword plunged into the earth.
The old figure halted for an instant, breathing heavily.
Behind him, the speeding lights also stopped in midair and turned back in confusion.
"Old Xin Qin, what's wrong?"
Kuafu hoisted the Sea-Calming Divine Needle onto his shoulder, sounding almost teasing. "Don't tell me you can't walk anymore?"
"Mm, I can't."
The Saint braced himself on the sword hilt and raised a hand to wipe the blood from his long beard. Without looking back, he said, "I accidentally went too far. You go on ahead."
"I'm tired."
The smile on Kuafu's face stiffened slightly. He did not hesitate for long. "Wait ten minutes for us."
"Mm, ten minutes."
Xin Qin nodded, not turning back to watch the lights receding into the distance. "Oh, right. I've never liked that kid much... This time, thank him for me."
"Tch, go thank him yourself when you get the chance, old man."
Kuafu waved impatiently in farewell. Divine Inscription: Somersault Cloud rose again and flew into the distance, leaving him only one final message: "Ten minutes."
The old Saint did not answer.
He merely leaned on his sword hilt and straightened himself with all his strength. His hunched back became erect once more.
The black fissure across his chest widened. His writhing organs were covered in decayed mold, and his blood had dried up as though it had drained away into the abyss.
This was the