The Furious Kingpin

Vanessa's eyes opened briefly, releasing two wisps of ominous Dark Energy, then closed again.

She hadn't awakened. Lin Hai had used Life Force to stimulate the muscles around her eyes, opening a path for the Dark Energy lodged deep in her brain to escape.

But to Kingpin, watching beside her, it was like seeing the brightest dawn break through endless darkness.

Joy and hope swept away the gloom in his heart like the midday sun. His lips trembled, and his bloodshot eyes widened.

It's working! Dr. Lin really can do it! Kingpin cried out in his mind. Vanessa opened her eyes!

He clenched his fists so tightly that his nails nearly dug into his palms. He leaned forward, his burning gaze betraying every bit of his excitement and longing.

After forcing out and purifying the two streams of Dark Energy that had invaded Vanessa's brain, Lin Hai did not stop.

His hands remained steady against her temples. Pure, life-filled energy gently swept through every corner of her brain the darkness had touched, repairing unseen damage and dispelling the lingering chill.

Only when Lin Hai sensed that nothing abnormal remained in Vanessa's brain—and that it was healthier than before—did he slowly stop channeling Life Force and lift his hands from her temples.

Almost the instant his hands left her, Vanessa's eyelashes fluttered again. Then her eyes slowly opened, clouded with confusion and weakness.

Kingpin saw it and forgot all about thanking Lin Hai. He lunged to the bedside in a single stride.

He took Vanessa's slightly raised hand, which seemed to be reaching for something.

"Vanessa... my Vanessa..." Kingpin's voice caught with the overwhelming relief of having her back. He bent down and gently pressed his forehead to his wife's, feeling her warmth, knowing she was truly there.

Lin Hai watched