Thanks to reader "Phantom Blossoms, Fallen Crimson" for the tip. I only noticed it today, so please forgive me.
Eastern Xuan Region.
Above the sea of trees, violent Yuan Power swept wildly outward. A faint, lilting sound, carrying a wondrous melody, circled and echoed through the sky.
The girl's slender, flawless hands settled gently on the jade-green zither. Beautiful notes immediately flowed forth, drawing listeners into their spell.
Yet those exquisite notes concealed an icy killing intent. Wherever they passed, there was only the sound of slicing, as though sharp, invisible blades were shooting through the air.
Leaves drifting into the sky were instantly sliced into pieces upon touching the melody.
That hidden killing intent swiftly swept through the air toward the pursuing men. But the man leading them was no easy mark, and he quickly dodged.
"Formless Bodhi Sound?!"
Upon hearing the melody, the grim-faced Yao Ling could not help looking with some alarm at the girl playing the zither, blocking their path.
"As expected of a former Yuan Sect deacon. You certainly know your stuff."
Ying Huanhuan looked up at Yao Xiang and the others, pressed her lips together, then smiled. She feigned ease, but inwardly, she was anything but calm.
"Little girl, how long can you hold out with your strength?" Yao Xiang stared coldly at her and sneered. "Don't think I'll cherish a fragrant flower or spare a delicate beauty. If you know what's good for you, get out of the way and hand over the Immortal Origin Ancient Seed. I can leave you a way out alive."
"Not a chance!"
As Ying Huanhuan's words fell, a look of resolve rose in her eyes. Biting her red lip with pearly teeth, she plucked the strings.
"Formless Bodhi Sound, All Beings Aspect!"
The soft words slipped from