The disciple's movements began to slow, and the Demon Crow facing him seized its chance, preparing to deliver a fatal blow.
Just as he thought there was no way he could dodge it, an immensely powerful tug came from behind him, yanking him back before he could react.
The next instant, a golden talisman unfurled before him.
The Demon Crow, less than a foot away, was stopped dead by the golden talisman. Its charge was so fierce that he even heard the sound of it crashing into the talisman.
But the talisman's power was clearly greater. After the collision, it showed no sign of change, while the Demon Crow looked as though it had been scorched by raging flames. Black, charred fumes rose from the parts touching the talisman, and in a mere instant, more than half of one front claw had melted away.
The Demon Crow seemed to realize how formidable the talisman was. Instinct drove it to retreat at once, and it flew some distance back before stopping, though it still eyed the disciple's direction like a tiger stalking its prey.
The disciple, meanwhile, was briefly dazed. Only once he was more or less safe did he realize someone had saved him.
Before he could offer any thanks, however, a cool touch settled on his wrist.
"Didn't I remind you to take pills beforehand?" a cool, clear voice asked evenly.
Although the disciple had seen Su Jiu quite a few times before, this was his first time being so close to her. He could not help growing nervous, even temporarily forgetting his discomfort.
But he soon seemed to realize how rude it was to keep staring at Su Jiu. He hastily lowered his head and replied, "I took a Three Purities Pill."
A flicker of surprise passed through