Breaking Free

It suddenly let out a shrill, mournful hiss. Its hundred-zhang body abruptly contracted, and the protective Demonic Qi around it suddenly receded by more than half.

With no Demonic Qi to block it, the raging Demon-Refining Flame pounced upon its body. Its golden scales sizzled in the blaze, its dark green carapace cracked apart, and its flesh and blood curled back, releasing waves of scorched-meat stench.

Screams of agony echoed through the underground palace, so shrill and sorrowful that they stirred pity in all who heard them.

"Ah—!"

Cangwu Old Ancestor's voice was hoarse and trembling, carrying the feebleness of a lamp running out of oil, as though he had truly reached the end of his rope.

"This old monk... this old monk can't hold on any longer..."

Ao Rui stood at the entrance to the underground palace with his arms folded over his chest. A glint of interest flashed through his golden vertical pupils.

He did not intervene, merely watching coldly. The more the centipede struggled and screamed, the more reassured he became.

Only after both sides had exhausted themselves would he strike and reap the fisherman's reward. That was the safest course of action.

But Mu Xian's heart sank.

He knew Ao Rui too well. This Dragon Race member had always been cunning, suspicious, and ready to forget righteousness at the sight of profit.

His refusal to act now was not because he was waiting for the best opportunity. He was waiting for Mu Xian and Cangwu Old Ancestor to wound each other badly, so he could sweep them all up in one net.

Mu Xian gritted his teeth and used the whisk in his hand to drive the formation. The flames surged even higher, but he knew he was nearing his limit.

After a while, Cangwu Old