Exploitation

Li Xiao lifted his teacup, took an unhurried sip, then set it down. "What's the background of that Saintess from the Red Dust Devil Palace? How strong is she?"

His question was direct. He made no attempt to hide his interest in the Ore Vein.

At the mention of Shen Qinghe, Wang Yuanqiao's expression grew noticeably grave, and a barely perceptible wariness flashed through his eyes.

He fell silent for a moment before speaking slowly, his voice heavy.

"A month ago, the Hatred-Severing Sect forced its way into the Ore Vein.

"At the time, the Golden Blade Sect and the Hatred-Severing Sect were evenly matched. We knew each other inside out, so I wasn't particularly wary of them.

"But who could have known the Saintess would suddenly make a move..."

He paused, seemingly recalling the scene, and his voice dropped without his realizing it.

"The art she cultivates is called the Six Desires Demonic Art. It's the Red Dust Demon Sect's signature art. Her mastery is extraordinary; she can sway minds with a casual gesture.

"Several of my elders in the Marrow-Piercing Realm exchanged barely a dozen moves with her before she left them dazed and babbling nonsense, as though trapped in some illusion. They couldn't even tell friend from foe.

"I fought her myself for a few moves. Though I could just barely hold her off, I gained no advantage.

"And..." His voice grew graver still.

"She's very young, yet she's already in the Round Marrow Realm.

"The Red Dust Devil Palace sent her to hold the fort, which means her standing there is extremely high. She's no ordinary woman.

"My sect still has some forces in the Ore Vein, but the Hatred-Severing Palace and the Cai Family have joined hands to pressure us. They want us out of