Lin Taichu did not hesitate in the slightest. The Soul Power within his body circulated in an instant, and with a flash, he rushed straight forward, blocking Qianlong's path.
Qianlong's steps halted. He lifted his head and looked at Lin Taichu, a trace of surprise flashing through his eyes. He did not know this human cultivator before him, yet he could sense the Soul Power fluctuations around Lin Taichu. Though they were not especially deep, they were extraordinarily condensed, without the slightest hint of fear.
"Who are you? You dare block me?"
Lin Taichu wasted no words. He tightened his grip on the Purple Gold Gourd in his hand, and Soul Power slowly poured in through his fingertips. A faint purple halo rose around him.
This battle concerned every cultivator who had been harmed by the Spirit Devouring Gu. It concerned whether the secrets of Chaotian Gate could be uncovered. Not the slightest mistake could be allowed.
"I'm going to stop you."
Qianlong gave a scornful laugh. A wisp of black Soul Power gathered at his fingertip, his expression cold. "With just you? Bai Yu was several times stronger than you, and I cut him down with one sword. You dare act recklessly in front of me too?"
Lin Taichu did not answer. The Soul Power inside him revolved to its peak, the mouth of the Purple Gold Gourd opened slightly, and a weak yet condensed stream of Nanming Lihuo gushed out, shooting toward Qianlong.
He did not rashly unleash his full strength. Instead, he first tested Qianlong's power, searching for his openings.
Qianlong's gaze chilled. He raised a hand and struck out with a black palm print, easily scattering the Nanming Lihuo.
The aftershock of the palm force spread outward and swept toward Lin Taichu. Lin Taichu rapidly retreated,