Amid the clamor of countless people, a vast shadow gradually emerged beneath the sea's surface. At the sight, the island lords grew solemn and immediately knelt respectfully on the decks.
Before long, an enormous snake head the size of a small mountain rose from the water. It was blue-black, and its pale yellow eyes shone with cold indifference.
Even more striking was the peculiar horn growing atop its head. Daoist Rhyme flowed over it, exuding a power that made hearts tremble.
At the sight of the giant snake, the formerly clamorous crowd felt as though they had plunged into an ice cellar. Chills ran through their bodies, and they were too terrified to speak.
"We pay our respects to the Snake God!"
"We pay our respects to the Snake God!"
The lords of the thirty-six islands spoke respectfully.
The Snake God ignored them, his cold eyes sweeping over the offerings on the thirty-six ships. When he saw the three thousand young boys and girls, approval appeared in his eyes.
"White Smoke Island Lord, you've done well."
The Snake God spoke. His voice sounded like a man's, but it was piercingly shrill, as though it would puncture their eardrums.
Hearing that voice, the three thousand children cried even louder.
"Thank you for your praise, Snake God. As long as you are satisfied, I would gladly spill my liver and brains upon the ground!" the White Smoke Island Lord shouted excitedly.
"Very good. I will enjoy the offerings now. You may leave," the Snake God said indifferently.
"Yes."
The lords of the thirty-six islands rose and flew off the ships.
After they left, the Snake God submerged again, but a deathly chill pervaded the sea's surface.
Just then, an enormous tail swept out of the sea, trailing spray, and slammed viciously into