Within World Art.
The middle-aged man was still speaking with Gu Qingshan in detail.
Gu Qingshan studied the other man's expression, and suddenly a thought struck him.
"Given how much time has passed, God of Life—I mean, that monster—should have eaten enough souls and recovered from its injuries long ago. Why is it still staying in Soul Calming Village, refusing to leave?" Gu Qingshan asked.
The middle-aged man said, "After sneaking back, it initially planned to leave once it had eaten enough souls. But gradually, it discovered an advantage—"
The middle-aged man gave a cold laugh. "Soul Calming Village is protected by a joint oath sworn by the Seven Gods of the Inner World and the Four Righteous Gods of Void. It's deeply hidden within the Void Turbulence and perfectly safe."
"But if it returned to the Void Turbulence... there's a good chance the monster's former companions and enemies would come looking for it."
"How could God of Life understand how monsters get along with each other? It would surely give itself away in front of those terrifying monsters."
"So rather than go out and risk its life, it would rather stay in Soul Calming Village forever, living a carefree life."
Gu Qingshan sighed. "As God of Life, it certainly lives up to its name."
"What do you mean?"
"I've never seen anyone more afraid of dying."
"...You have no reverence for the gods," the middle-aged man said.
"Not true. I do respect some gods—just not useless gods like God of Life."
As he spoke, Gu Qingshan asked, "As for escaping Soul Calming Village, how do you want me to help?"
At the mention of business, the middle-aged man grew noticeably serious.
He looked Gu Qingshan up and down, a hint of caution in his eyes, and said, "First, we