The passage wasn't long, but it twisted and turned. Every few steps, a dim yellow Soul Guidance Lamp hung on either side, stretching the shadows into long, twisted shapes.
The farther they went, the stronger the stench of blood grew, until it was almost enough to make someone vomit.
Xu Yanli's expression didn't change. His steps were steady as he walked deeper inside, one step at a time.
At last, he reached the end of the passage.
Before him was a spacious underground chamber, lit by torches whose flames cast a flickering light.
Seven or eight people lay sprawled across the floor. All were dressed in black. Some were already dead; others still twitched faintly, their blood pooling beneath them in a dark red lake.
At the far end stood a massive iron cage.
Four or five people were locked inside, each suspended in midair by chains driven through their collarbones. Rags stuffed in their mouths allowed them to make only muffled whimpers.
A chair stood in front of the cage, and someone sat in it.
His black brocade robe was spattered with dark red blood. He held a short knife, its tip still dripping.
It was Xu Tianran.
Blood stained his face, yet a smile still lingered at the corners of his mouth.
The smile seemed as gentle as ever, but paired with his bloodied face, it sent a chill down anyone's spine.
Xu Yanli stood at the passage entrance, quietly taking in the scene.
Xu Tianran sensed someone entering and turned his head.
The instant his gaze landed on Xu Yanli's face, his brow creased slightly.
"What brings you here?"
His voice was still as gentle as ever, but Xu Yanli didn't miss the flash of sharpness in his eyes.
Xu Yanli smiled and stepped into the underground