The Steppe King's strike was not only blindingly fast and utterly silent, but incomparably sharp!
The [Excellent Armor], socketed with [dark netherstone], had reached an exceptionally high level of defense. Yet even armor with such formidable protection only held the attack back for an instant before it was pierced.
But that instant of resistance was precisely what saved Qin Ran's heart from being crushed outright.
The strike had shifted slightly off target instead.
A hair's breadth could make a world of difference.
Having narrowly escaped death, Qin Ran chuckled.
He seemed to be celebrating his survival.
"Aren't you celebrating a little too soon?"
The Steppe King spoke darkly.
Although Qin Ran had avoided the fatal blow, dealing with him now would only take a little more effort.
But when he thought of how an insect he should have been able to crush at will had cost him a portion of his origin power, the Steppe King felt no joy at his imminent victory. Instead, his expression grew even darker.
"Your heart contains origin power too. It's faint and well hidden, but I prepared a generous gift for it long ago... I don't need it now, but I won't let my preparations go to waste-not only will I make you watch as I cut you open, I'll make you suffer the greatest agony without letting you die!"
"How else could I possibly vent my hatred?"
The Steppe King spoke with savage cruelty, exerting force through the hand that had pierced Qin Ran's chest, as though he intended to tear him apart.
Bzzz!
A vibrating hum suddenly rang out. Rings of white light, sharp as knives and swords, spread from Qin Ran's heart, forming a perfect circle that passed above his head and beneath his feet, revolving around him according to some