By the time they ran out of the Iron Sword Sect's mountain gate, the light curtain of the sect-protecting formation had completely vanished, and raging flames were rising from the inner courtyard.
By the time they returned to the black pine forest, dawn was beginning to break. After counting heads, all thirty were present. Only a few had suffered minor injuries.
Lin Taichu watched the pale light spreading across the eastern sky. The Reincarnation Token in his hand was still stained with blood, yet he felt no relief at all.
News of the Iron Sword Sect Leader's death spread the very next day.
Lin Taichu sat in the Main Military Tent, listening as a guard reported the latest developments. The Iron Sword Sect's Cultivators had split into three factions: one wanted revenge for Zhao Tianxiong, one advocated surrendering to Yunshui City, and the last had fled with the resources they had looted.
The Qingdan Sect sent someone with a letter of condolence, saying they wished to form an everlasting alliance with Yunshui City. Blazing Fire Hall, meanwhile, had retreated into the Mist Forest and no longer sent anyone wandering near Yunshui City.
"Commander, the Qingdan Sect's envoy is still waiting outside the tent," the guard added.
Lin Taichu rubbed his brow. "Let him in."
The envoy was a fair-faced scholar. The moment he entered, he cupped his hands and bowed.
"Commander Lin, you are truly young and accomplished. Eliminating Zhao Tianxiong in one stroke was a blessing for Black Wind Ridge. Our Sect Leader has said that from now on, the Qingdan Sect is willing to follow Yunshui City's command and work together to maintain order in Black Wind Ridge."
Lin Taichu stared at him. "What about the Blood Demon Sect Cultivators you took in?"
The envoy's expression changed slightly.