"The Taiji Demon?" Lian Youming froze for a moment, then curled his lip. "Who came up with that lousy name?"
But when he saw that the three across from him still had not released Liu Danaodai despite the alarm and uncertainty in their eyes, he loosened his joints. His hands curled loosely at his sides as he slowly approached them.
"I'll say it again. Let him go, and we can all go our separate ways. If you insist on being stubborn, don't blame me for showing no mercy. I don't make a habit of leaving trouble behind." In an instant, murderous intent filled the narrow alley.
The young man among the three wore a fluctuating expression. His feet shifted slightly, as if he were about to attack.
"Chuojiao?"
Lian Youming grinned, but his narrowed eyes suddenly opened wide. Within the dim shadows over his face, two piercing gleams seemed to flare, mingled with menace, murderous intent, and a savage ferocity.
The instant their eyes met, the young man turned pale. It was as though some vicious beast had fixed its gaze on him, robbing him of his wits. The right foot he had raised inexplicably settled back down, and cold sweat poured from his temples.
The old man released Liu Danaodai and cupped his hands, saying hoarsely, "Our apologies."
Lian Youming smiled, his eyes curving. "You're too polite."
Without another word, the three turned and ran toward the exit at the other end, afraid that Lian Youming might change his mind if they were too slow.
Having escaped with his life, Liu Danaodai's legs immediately gave way, and he slid down against the earthen wall.
Lian Youming walked up and teased, "What's this? Our Master Liu's legs have gone weak already? You looked pretty impressive smashing bricks and breaking stones