At that moment, someone sharp-eyed suddenly noticed Xie's face changing rapidly in the lantern light and cried out in bewilderment, "Temple master, why have you changed?!"
The others soon noticed that the temple master was growing younger, and every face lit up with astonished delight.
"Could he have become an immortal?"
Beneath the lanterns, Xie gradually grew younger, reverting from a middle-aged man to someone in his twenties. There was still a considerable difference between middle age and youth, plainly visible on closer inspection, and the transformation filled everyone with wonder and joy.
But a few quick-witted ones felt their hearts jolt and quietly took a step back.
Xie rose from his meditation cushion and slowly stepped down, answering, "Become an immortal? I am indeed close."
His words carried a wealth of emotion. His gaze swept over those before him as he slowly continued, "But I still lack a few things."
"You are all orphans I raised. Are you willing to fetch what I lack?"
Those standing at the front trusted Xie most and immediately replied, "We are willing!"
"Temple master, whatever you need, just give the order. I will fetch it for you!"
"I will fetch it for the temple master, even if I must die ten thousand deaths!"
"Good. There is no need for ten thousand deaths. One will suffice." Xie nodded, then suddenly drew his sword and thrust it at the person standing foremost.
Shhk! The keen blade pierced straight through his body. Completely unprepared, he even looked down, not understanding what had happened. As the sword was withdrawn, his strength left him, and he collapsed.
The sudden turn left everyone stunned. None of them had ever imagined that the kindly, immortal temple master who had rescued them in their darkest hour and raised them would