A pale arm reached out and seized the key. Making no attempt to hide anything from Gao Ming, Chunniang eagerly used it to open the Golden Lock.
The sound of waves and rushing water filled the room. Chunniang's lower body, which had taken the form of a giant fish, began to twist and deform. A foul stench assaulted his nose, and scales flew everywhere. It was a terrifying sight.
"The injuries on my lower body will slowly heal once they come into contact with water. Lord Tang will notice what's happening here soon. Come with me when I leave." Chunniang proved reasonably loyal. Rather than repay kindness with betrayal, she intended to take Gao Ming along.
"Which way?"
"The well in the back courtyard. It's the only place Lord Tang has overlooked, and only I can take you out through it." Chunniang's gaze was frightening, and Gao Ming hesitated. If he jumped into the well, his life would be entirely at her mercy.
"What? Don't trust me?" Chunniang's expression gave no hint of what she was planning. She seemed to be teasing him, or perhaps mocking him. Either way, there was not the slightest sign that she intended to save anyone.
"I do. We still have to join forces and tear Dreamfold Town apart to avenge you." Gao Ming emphasized the word "avenge." He had no other choice now. Chunniang was his only lifeline.
The Golden Lock fell to the floor. Lord Tang, who was fighting the Butcher in the courtyard, paused for a moment. The bloodshot eye in the center of the Birthday Hall turned toward the side room.
"What are you waiting for? Run!"
Lord Tang's children, grandchildren, and guests in the Birthday Hall's secret chamber had long since been scared out of their wits by the eye.