Sudden Assassination

"Bewitching Heart Powder... Someone tampered with the food, amplifying my desire for power and even... mixing in demonic thoughts to guide me?" Huyan Lie was no fool. He immediately grasped the crux of it. Shock and fury surged through him. He was shocked that he'd fallen into the trap without even realizing it, and furious that someone would stoop to such despicable tactics. He glared at the lingering evil shadow in the mirror, a defiant flame of rage burning in his chest. "My blade is raised only to protect! You think you can control me? Dream on!" He gathered every ounce of his will. Crimson Flame True Fire roared through his meridians, forcing out the evil thoughts and the powder's effects bit by bit, burning them away.

Outside the secret chamber, True Man Tian Shu furrowed his brows. Through the formation, he could sense the violent fluctuations in Huyan Lie's soul, as well as a fleeting trace of unsettling evil energy. Lin Hao's gaze sharpened, too.

After a long while, Huyan Lie gave a muffled grunt. A thin trickle of blood escaped the corner of his mouth, but his eyes had cleared and grown resolute once more. The mist in the mirror settled, reflecting his pale but steadfast face.

"Blade Lord Huyan, that's enough." True Man Tian Shu's voice carried a hint of weariness. Keeping the Heart-Questioning Mirror running had taken a toll. He gave Huyan Lie a long, complicated look.

Huyan Lie staggered one step, steadied himself, and clasped his hands in salute to Lin Hao and True Man Tian Shu. Without a word, he turned and left the chamber. The light outside stung his eyes, making him squint. His face was grim, but he held himself ramrod straight. Nangong Liuli noticed his ragged breathing and the blood at